Debbie froze. Her hair was soaked and plastered to the sides of her face and neck. Water beads were hanging on the edges of her eyelashes, partially blinding her, but she could still feel. And the feel of Cole’s hard body against her back made her shiver in response. “One more set,” she mumbled.

“You’re shivering,” he said as she ducked beneath his arms. “You’ve been in the water too long. Crawl out and grab a towel.”

For once, Debbie was at a loss for words. There were no smart rejoinders on the tip of her tongue. Only the feel of him pressing against her hips, his long, strong arms wrapping around her. She’d never wanted anything as much in her life as to turn and hug him. And that was just for starters.

Instead, she dutifully crawled out of the pool, grabbed the first beach towel she came to, and wrapped it around her. She sat down on the lounge chair and watched as Cole completed the last of his father’s exercises, laughing and teasing as Morgan began to rebuke and complain.

“You’re just mad cause I’m not Debbie,” Cole teased. “I already know I’m not as pretty, Dad. But I didn’t think you noticed, too.”

Morgan hushed. He realized he’d just sounded petty and complaining. It wasn’t like him and he was instantly sorry.

“I’m sorry,” he said. “I know I don’t appreciate all you do. All both of you have done. But even if I don’t say it, I think it constantly, and don’t either of you forget it.” To lighten the moment before either of them became embarrassed by his compliments, he added. “Don’t forget you promised me strawberry shortcake for dessert tonight.”

“I won’t forget,” Debbie laughed. “Just don’t either of you forget to save room for dessert. If I’m going to fix it, you two have to do it justice. I’m going to get dressed. You guys are on your own.”

She quickly exited the pool area, leaving Cole to spend some quality time with his father. She knew that they were close and suspected that having her as a guest had put a dint in Cole’s comfort zone. Especially since she was in the room next to his. She heard everything from the squeak of his bed frame to the water running in his shower. By the same token, she knew that he heard her, too. It kept them just slightly off balance as they met from day to day.