Chapter 10

It was still only mid-afternoon, so we decided on a naked swim in the outdoor pool. We were far more confident now, walking down without even our robes on. The afternoon sun laid a golden glow over the pool area as we stepped onto the warm stone tiles. Laughter and the soft slap of splashing water filled the air, and I felt a rush of liberation moving so freely amongst everyone else, completely naked.

Quite a few couples were there already, some stretched out on the sunbeds, others swimming or splashing about in the pool. Sizwe took my hand and we went down the steps together, the cool water a relief after the heat of the day. Now and then we traded smiles and nods with the others, and the whole atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming.

"This has been an amazing weekend," Sizwe said, pushing the wet hair back from my face.

I smiled at him. "It really has. I feel like we've learned so much about ourselves, and about each other."

After a bit more swimming we climbed out and padded over to an empty pair of sunbeds. The sun warmed our damp skin as we stretched out, each of us reaching for the book we'd brought down earlier.

It wasn't long before I was lost in my novel, the pages turning steadily while the poolside noise faded into background. Sizwe was beside me, just as engrossed, shifting every so often to find a more comfortable position.

A soft voice broke the quiet. "Nice day, isn't it?"