She laughed, smacking his ass. “You’re a big help.”
He took her hand and walked them out of the water. They approached the couple who took each other’s hands as well, huddling closely together. The woman was beautifully tanned with raven hair curled in a messy knot. The man had dark hair as well, curling past his ears and onto his neck. He stood only a few inches above the woman.
They greeted Max and Violet with a hello.
“Hello,” Max returned. Violet only nodded her head.
“I’d say we’re sorry to intrude,” the woman started, “but we were beginning to wonder if we’d ever see anyone else around, and I was in desperate need of company.” She chuckled.
“I’ve been a bit selfish,” the man added, kissing the woman’s temple. “Keeping her to myself most of the time for nearly a week. She said she’d go crazy if she didn’t get out for a bit.”
“We’re the Hardys,” the wife explained. “I’m Tara, and this is my husband, Dan.”
“I’m Max, Max Stephenson, and this is my wife, Violet.”
“Hello,” Violet finally spoke up.
“What a lovely name. Violet,” Tara said.
“Thank you.”
“Well,” Dan started, “I guess this is a bit awkward, but, we were wondering if you two would like to join us for dinner. Tara’s getting tired of conversation only with me.” He winked down at his wife.
She nudged his side. “Never. It’d just be nice to interact with others.”
Max looked down at Violet, trying to read her. As she looked up at him, she questioned with her eyes, then smiled and nodded. Max turned back to the Hardys and nodded as well. “Sounds good.”
“Great!” Tara responded. “We’re staying in cabana number four. Would you like to come over around six?”
“Sounds good, too,” Max replied.
“Any foods you don’t like?” Tara asked. “So I’ll know what not to get. Dan and I will eat just about anything.”
Violet finally spoke up. “I don’t eat anything raw, like sushi. But if you want it, that’s fine,” she quickly added.
“All right then. We’ll see you two later.” Tara smiled as she started to lead her husband away.
“Clothing optional,” Dan added, calling over his shoulder, earning a light slap from his wife.
“He’s teasing,” Tara said with a chuckle. “Be comfortable.”
Max and Violet watched the couple walk away, evident that they were completely at ease with their nakedness. He looked again to his wife. “Looks like we’re having dinner with the Hardys.”
Violet laughed. “That sounds so old-fashioned, and completely out of place as we just stood nearly toe-to-toe with another naked couple.”
Max leaned down, placing a kiss on the top of her head. “I’m proud of you.”
“Thanks. I’m still wearing clothes tonight.” She winked up at him.
“Nice thing about clothes is they come off,” he whispered seductively.
“Max. You don’t really think… I mean, we’re not going to—” She looked like a scared rabbit caught in a snare.
“Relax, sweetheart. We aren’t going to do anything that you’re not comfortable with.”
****
After a stroll of their own, Violet and Max indulged in an afternoon nap before getting ready for their dinner. Each showered and dressed, with Max wearing cargo shorts and a t-shirt, and Violet in a simple cotton dress that didn’t allow for a bra. She did, however, show Max that she put on her big-girl panties, which to his surprise and pleasure were red, skimpy, and lacey.
“I’ve changed my mind.” Max slid close to Violet. “I just wanna stay right here and rip those off with my teeth.”
Violet laughed as Max nuzzled her neck and slid her dress up her thighs. She playfully swatted his hands away and turned to face him. “Not so fast, mister.” She kissed him swiftly then took a step back. “We’ll go enjoy dinner, hopefully have some pleasant conversation, and then we can come back and play.”
“Slave driver,” he joked as he followed his wife out the door.
“You ain’t seen nothin’ yet,” she drawled.
The evening was peaceful as they walked less than half a mile toward their destination. A mild breeze stirred the air as the waves rolled in, almost inviting them for another swim. Violet was tempted to remove her sandals and wade through the water. Maybe a moonlit skinny dip session was in order for later, she thought.
As if reading her thoughts, Max spoke up. “I can just picture you rising out of the water like Aphrodite, gloriously naked, moonlight shining on your slick skin.” He brushed a finger up her arm and across her bare shoulders and back.
“And you, my Adonis,” she turned to him, wrapping her arms around his waist, and continued, “unable to resist. Take me to the sand and make me yours.”
“Damn, woman.” He growled and kissed her hard, leaving her breathless.
They didn’t realize they were in front of cabana four until they heard someone clearing their throat, followed by a chuckle. “Sorry, again, to interrupt,” Dan started. “Just thought I’d step out and watch for your arrival.”
Violet drew back from Max’s embrace, taking ahold of his hand. She blushed, unable to respond.
“And here we are.” Max grinned. “Easy to get carried away.”
“Sure is,” Dan agreed. “So, come on in,” He gestured to the open door. “Tara’s got everything set up and is looking forward to the evening.”
“Thank you,” Violet said. While Dan was already without shoes, Tara and Max shed theirs at the door. Walking ahead of Max into the Hardy’s cabana, Violet saw Tara coming toward them. The men shook hands and followed her inside. Tara greeted Violet with a beaming smile and quick embrace. “You look lovely. Nice dress.”
Violet was a little surprised at the hug, seeing as they hardly knew one another, but she attempted to return it genuinely. She was also looking forward to this evening more than she realized. “Thank you. And you look stunning.” Tara wore a silk tunic of turquoise that looked like water cascading down her body. She complemented the outfit with abalone earrings and arm cuffs. Her feet were bare,
