“I did. I thought you were pulling a prank and we were just friends.” *** “Hmph. Fine. What do I do?”
She slid onto his lap and gave him a kiss, the light scent of her perfume settling around them. “Calm down, sweet boy.” *** “That’s... a lot.”
“Hm indeed. Do you ever think I’d be without you?” *** “Shouldn’t we leave some for the people to enjoy the beach?”
“No, sweet boy,” she said, kissing his forehead. “I’m afraid I’ve grown fond of you.” *** “Twelve? Why twelve?”
The smile was in her voice as she moved to kiss his cheek from his forehead. "You've grown fond of yourself?" * * * "But, like, are there twelve people in mind? Are you concerned about the happiness of twelve other people?"
"Really?" she asked wryly, pulling away from him. "You love me." * * * "Well, I can help collect the shells. But you shouldn't take all of them."
