More unmitagated fluff

By the time Harry returned with drinks Ruth's bikini top was back in its rightful place and she felt happier for it, though she would always feel eternally grateful for its absence when she thought of his hands running down her back and legs.

They chatted, somewhat more comfortably for the rest of the morning and then Harry proposed a swim.

The water was warm, the current surprisingly strong. They walked until they were waist deep and she hesitated as he encouraged her to take the final leap.

For a moment it was not clear whether he was talking about the water or the state of their relationship.

He decided to lead the way and ploughed in. He was a good swimmer. He powered away from her. His front crawl was impressive and she was quite content just watching him. Eventually he turned and swam back to her, calling for her to join him. She submerged herself and swam out to him. The water was not too deep, she could just about stand. The tide though was strong and caught her off balance. She was pushed back into Harry. His arms immediately moved to her waist and laughing he turned her around in the water to face him. They looked at each other. The tide behind just kept pushing and pinned her to him, perhaps nature was telling them something. It was a delicious sensation and one that neither of them could easily free themselves from. They didn't have the slightest inclination to try. She was laughing now, pretending to try and move away and all the time bumping into him. The water was glistening on her face and neck, her eyes shone and he felt the joy that had been missing from her for so long returning. He was drowning in her eyes when she put her hands on his shoulders and her body slid down his. He moved her away. She looked disappointed, she felt rejected. He could see as much but he knew it was the safest thing to do under the circumstances. They had had enough embarrassing moments for one day and his self control was failing him now. He lingered in the water, apart from her. She was trying to wade out but the ebb of the tide kept tugging her back. When he had regained control of himself he strided out before her and tugged at her hand pulling her with him, away from the waves. They were laughing and as they broke through to the beach, he held on to her hand for a little while longer and then let go unwillingly.

That afternoon they took up their books and resumed their quiet and now comfortable companionship, staying clear of further physical temptations.

"Harry"

"Yes, Ruth?"

"Do you fancy that dinner, tonight?"

"I'd love to, if that's what you want."

"Yes, it is."

She smiled at him, he smiled at her.

And they turned back to their books.

"Where are you and Mr Rochester up to?" asked Ruth.

"Chapter 19," and he read in a quiet voice, "I wish I were in a quiet island with only you; and trouble, and danger, and hideous recollections removed from me."

And then he looked at her.

"But you are Harry," she said.

And she returned to her book, smiling.