The Dating Pool

"Jim, I…"

He turned back. His smile faded when he saw her wringing her hands. "Aw, Liv." He was before her in seconds, taking her hands in his. "There's no pressure here. That's why we have two rooms. That door can always shut…and lock if that would make you feel more comfortable."

She still couldn't look at him. Tears started to puddle and she blinked them away. "It's not that. It's…well…I'm not…perfect."

"Who is?"

Liv shook her head. "I mean…my body."

"So do I. I might be an ad man, but I've got plenty of wear on this body and the scars to prove it."

That made her smile. "I haven't been with anyone in five years, Jim. I'm more than a little nervous."

"You and me both." He wrapped his arms around her and tugged her against him. "I wouldn't expect too many bells and whistles the first time. Hell, I'll probably be so quick, you won't even realize we've done it."

Liv tossed back a laugh. "If what I feel is any evidence, I doubt very seriously if you could sneak that in and out of me without my knowing."

"Well, hopefully, it'll be a little longer than just in and out. Although…" He shrugged and had her laughing all over again. "Ready to hit that beach?"

"Almost," she said. "There's just one thing I want to do first."

"And that is?"

Liv draped her arms around his neck. "Kiss you."