River's secrets: Desire at edge of death's passing shadow

istock

The sheet now hung between them, heavy and dripping, and Jared locked his gaze on Nyapol. She could see what was in those eyes and she knew what he wanted. When he brought his end to her, she did not step back. She just placed it in the basin and turned to pick up the next bed sheet. That is when he moved behind her and held his body close to hers. She kept her hands in the plastic basin of water, rinsing the pillow covers, her back bent to him wondering what he would do next.

 His boldness surprised her. His hands found her waist and he just rested them there as if asking for permission to proceed. She felt no urge to resist his advance. Then he asked that question again, the one he had asked months ago, “Rael, do you know you are beautiful?”