It's more fun with a partner, too. That part shouldn't be overlooked. They've both been surprised by the ways their partnership has developed and crept into the parts of their lives they thought were secret and sacrosanct. Truth, yes, but also gentleness.

"Every day?" She knows he means it, but it's still hard to believe. It's too much wonderful to expect in her life. He alone is enough; to be loved by him is more than she ever dared hope.

"In a bit," she agrees. This is too comfortable. "Don't want the sunscreen to wash off right away." Massages are less fun with sunburns.