Bethany stepped into the house, her damp clothes clinging to her like a second skin.

The cold air heightened her discomfort, but it was nothing compared to the turmoil raging inside her.

Her heart raced as she replayed the scene at the pool—the kiss, the emotions, and Fred’s face as they parted.

“What the hell am I doing?” she muttered under her breath.

The soft creak of the floorboards signaled Natalie’s approach. Bethany looked up, startled, to see her leaning against the doorframe with an all-too-knowing smirk.

"Well, well," Natalie said, crossing her arms. "You’re back early. And soaking wet, no less. Care to share what happened, or should I...