The pace shifted, the gentle rocking turning into something more desperate and final. Ruby gripped his shoulders, her knuckles white, as the world narrowed down to the point where their bodies met.
A sudden, sharp gasp ripped from her lungs as the wave finally broke, a silent explosion of relief and pleasure that made her cling to him like he was the only solid thing in a shifting sea. Max followed a moment later, his forehead resting against hers, his ragged breaths hitching as he held her tight, grounding them both.
The silence that followed was heavy and sweet. They stayed there for a long time, the water cooling their skin while the sun continued its slow descent toward the horizon.
Max finally pulled back, though he didn't let her feet touch the ground. He lifted her out of the water, the droplets glistening like diamonds on their skin in the afternoon light.
