Chapter 41

"Look at this turtle!" I squeal, my fingers running gently over its shell as it swims past my legs.

"I heard they bite." Jackson warns me.

"Well, if I get bit then it's worth it. They're so cute! Do you think I'd be able to bring one home?" I ask with a grin, already plotting to smuggle it inside my suitcase.

"I'm not even going to entertain that idea." Jackson snorts.

Sitting down in the water, I keep my phone elevated in the air facing me. Given that it's so hot, the water soothes my heated skin as it washes up my body and over my shoulders as I sit down on the sandy ocean floor.

"How's Hardin? Does he seem ok to you?" I ask out of concern.

"Yeah, I think so. Why? Has he been off with you?" Jackson question of out nosiness.

Smiling, I shake my head a little. "No, I just feel bad. I wish he could have come with me."

Jackson sighs. "Look, I'll keep him busy if I see him acting differently, alright?"

Offering a smile, I blow him a kiss. "You're the best, thank you."

"Yeah, yeah." He mu