#Chapter 23: A Warm Body

Rowena “Eric, I want you to teach me how to swim.” My words came out so fast that even I was just as surprised at hearing them. Eric blinked at me as he propped himself up on one elbow. “What?” he asked with a slight chuckle. “You’re serious?” I nodded, although my hands were trembling slightly at my sides. “I am.” Eric shot me a curious look and sat up fully now. “Why do you suddenly want to swim after all these years?” he teased. “Who are you, and what have you done with my Rowena?” I couldn’t help myself from blushing a bit. “I was just thinking about the party, and… and…” I paused, swallowing before I continued nervously. “I’m tired of being a big baby. It’s time to finally get over my fear.” My brother stared at me for a few moments, clearly searching my face for some kind of humor, but there was none there to find. Finally he sat up and crossed the room; the closer he came, the more I could smell the subtly sweet scent of sweat on his skin. “I guess I coul