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She stepped in front of him and pressed her naked body to his, and he scooped her up into his arms and carried her deeper into the water. She squealed, but it wasn’t a frightened squeal. It was a delightful, playful sound that filled him with happiness. She clung to him so tightly that he sensed her delight was turning to fear as they sank chest deep. He tightened his grip and said, “I’ve got you, sweetheart.”

“Don’t drop me. Don’t let me go,” she pleaded.

“Never.” He guided her legs around his waist, and she narrowed her eyes. “I’m not trying anything. I just want to get a better grip on you.”

“Uh-huh.” She tightened her legs around him. “Hey, careful with that water snake poking its head where it shouldn’t.”

He laughed. “If you put a den by a bear, you can’t complain when he takes shelter.” He’d never do anything she didn’t want to, but he realized that this playful banter was a great distraction. He took a step into deeper water, submerging their bodies up to their necks. She dug her nails into his skin.

“Wait.” She drew in a deep breath.

He stopped walking and reassured her. “I’ve got you. I won’t let anything happen to you. I promise. Talk to me, Kat. What scares you most about the water?”

“Drowning,” she snapped.

“Look at me.” When he had her full attention, he asked, “Were you ever taught to swim?”

She nodded. “I know how. My father made me learn that summer when I almost drowned, but even though I knew how, it never helped waylay my fears.”

“Okay, then staying afloat is completely within your control.”

Her legs tightened around his waist, pressing against his erection.

“Keep doing that and I won’t be responsible for what happens.” He smiled to let her know he was kidding. “I’ve got you. We’re just going to stay right here for a few minutes, neck-deep. When you’re comfortable, just loosen your grip a little. Trust yourself. Trust your ability to save yourself.”

“That might take a while.”

“I’ve got all night,” he assured her.

“I’m talking months.” She looked from side to side, and her gaze softened. “The river’s really pretty, actually. It looks like the moonlight is dancing off the ripples.”

“Yes, it’s almost as pretty as you.” He ran a hand down her back and patted her butt.

“Flirt.”

“Truth teller.” He pressed his lips to hers. “I can’t believe I’m going to ask you this, because there is no better position than this one right here—unless of course you’d agree to sink down about eight inches.”

Her eyes widened. “Tsk!I’d smack you if I weren’t afraid of falling under.”

“Damn. Thought I could trick you into loosening your grip. Focus on me, and I want you to untangle your legs from around me and let them hang in the water. I’ll hold you. I promise.”

“No.” She clenched her jaw.

“Fierce belligerence. That’s a total turn-on.” He pressed his hips forward, and she gasped.

“Hey!” Her eyes filled with mischief. “You’re supposed to be helping me overcome my fear of deep water.”

“It’s not my fault you’re sexy as hell and even hotter when you’re mad. Now, drop your legs and trust me to keep you safe, or I’ll carry you out of this water and you’ll definitely have an active snake on your hands.”

She laughed, and he breathed a sigh of relief.

“I have faith in you, Kat. You can do this.”

She rolled her eyes and slowly unwound her legs. “Don’t let go.”

“I would never.” He held her around her waist. Her arms were wrapped around his neck, and their mouths were at the perfect height for him to seal his lips over hers. He kissed her sensuously, relishing the slick feel of her body against his, the easing of her hold around his neck, and the melting of the tension from her body.

“You’re doing so well,” he said against her lips. “Keep kissing me, and you’ll be able to tread water in no time.”