Heated

Chloe

I struggled to form coherent words as it felt like my lips were sealed shut, making it impossible to speak. I hesitated to share my thoughts with Hayden because he was known for his confrontational nature, and I didn't want to create any unnecessary drama. So I chose to remain silent, which only led him to sigh in frustration.

"Hale, I can't help you if you refuse to communicate," he said in a flat tone, causing me to shake my head and bury my face in his chest.

"I...," my voice trailed off, and I took a deep breath before continuing, "Can I talk to you about it later?" I asked, and he looked down at me with a groan.

"Fine," he replied monotonously before standing up, still holding onto me. He walked to the front of the boat, disregarding my struggles to be let go. The boat had come to a stop, and I could hear splashing sounds from outside.

Before I knew it, I was unexpectedly thrown over the railing, plunging into the water with a loud splash. I stayed submerged for a moment, a