They’d walked as far as the next beach where the rocks opened up into a cave. When the tide was in, it filled with water, but right now it was a moonlit, cavernous grotto.

It was a favorite tourist spot on the island.

It was also a favorite haunt for teenagers looking for somewhere to have sex.

“Ryan?”

“Yeah.” His voice didn’t sound like his own. He was wishing he’d walked in the opposite direction. “Five o’clock should work. But if you change your mind, just let me know.”

“Don’t let me change my mind, even if I go on my knees and beg you.”

The thought of her on her knees almost made him stumble. “Emily—”

“Look!” She tugged her hand from his and walked toward the cave. “This place is amazing. Did you know it was here?” Her almost childlike wonder was in direct contrast to the dark, carnal thoughts that filled every inch of his brain.

“Yes.” He was so aroused, it was difficult to walk. “Be careful. The sea gets trapped in a few places and the pools can be deep.”

“How far back does it go?”

“When the tide is out, you can walk through to the next beach.” Or you could stop halfway and—

“Lizzy would love it.”

Even the mention of a child right now seemed inappropriate given that his thoughts were definitely adult only. “It’s a dangerous place. It fills up when the tide comes in. The coast guard has rescued more people from here than any other part of Puffin Island. Promise me you won’t come here without someone who knows the tides.”

“I promise.” Her voice was soft, and she slid her arm into his. “And thank you.”

“For what?”

“For not making fun of the fact I’m scared of water. For caring enough to warn me. I appreciate it.”

He had a feeling she wouldn’t be thanking him if she could read his mind.

The sound of music wafted on the breeze, and he knew a few people would be dancing on the beach.

“We should go back.”

“In a minute. Rachel is lovely. So warm and sweet-natured. Lizzy loved her instantly.”

“Yes. Fortunately she’s nothing like me.”

“You’re kind, too.”

The breath hissed through his teeth. “I’ve already told you, I’m not kind.”

“You’ve been very kind to me. You stayed with me when I had a panic attack. Most men would have run. You’re patient with Lizzy, even though I know you’ve already done all the child rearing you intend to do. And now you’ve offered to teach me to swim.”

He must have been out of his mind. “About that—”

“Thank you.” She stood on tiptoe and put her arms around him. “I’m so sorry I yelled at you.”