Finding the Way Back (gxg)

Chapter 13

We played three rounds of our skee-ball competition, using the last six of our tokens. I won the first two rounds before being a good girlfriend and letting Rose win the last round. It helps to coax that confidence into shining through, while placing a smile on her face as she celebrated her win.

It was a sight that I loved seeing, and would do anything to see as much as possible.

We counted up our tickets after that, and we combined to have just enough to get one of the small orca plushies, with Rose's face lighting up with the largest grin as I handed it to her.

And the name she gave it?

Lizzy, all because I had chosen it for her. Hearing her say that made my heart melt.

Once we were finished, we headed back to the hotel to drop everything off before heading back out.

For lunch, we decided on something simple. A trip down to the local Publix to share a chicken tender sub. One of, if not the best sub I have ever had in my life. Fresh-made fried chicken tenders on a sub roll with condiments and toppings. It is even better when you get it toasted so that the cheese melts onto the chicken tenders.

It might have a ton of calories, but it is worth it.

Once our stomachs were full again, we checked out the local beach shops. We both wanted to get the full experience of what these stores offered.

The first store we checked out was a cool-looking surf shop that sold surfboards, paddleboards, and other beach fun items. Nothing that we were going to buy, but it was still cool to see everything they had on offer.

The next store we went to was far more focused on swimwear necessities. Neither of us was looking to buy a new swimsuit, but it didn't hurt to look.

A short while into our browsing, I stumbled upon a triangle-cut two-piece swimsuit that had a floral print like the one I had thrown away last year. However, unlike that one, this one has a print of pink and red roses, just like Rose's swimsuit.

As I stood there, I felt torn. On the one hand, it was definitely cute; it was my style, and it would make Rose and me match if I bought it. On the other hand, I had memories of last summer playing I'm my head, making me hesitant to even try it on.

I did not know how long I had been standing there with my inner turmoil when Rose wrapped her arms around my waist from behind. The action pulled me out of my thoughts, causing me to sigh in reaction.

Rose leaned her head against my side as she followed my gaze to the rack where the swimsuit was hanging.

"I think it is cute," she says. "Pleasant to look at and doesn't scream 'look at me.' I think it would look good on you, and it would let us match. Perfect girlfriend energy."

I can't help but chuckle at her enthusiasm. "It is cute; I just don't know if I am comfortable getting it."

"Why not?"

A sigh escapes my mouth. "I had a similar one last year with a different floral print. Wore it to the beach with some of the U20 team girls, but spent the whole time being looked at like I was a piece of meat. Since then, I haven't been comfortable wearing a similar style swimsuit. It is why I chose the one I have now."

Rose hums. "Just means I'll have to make sure everyone knows you are mine." Her body shifts, and I feel her place a kiss on my cheek. "Try it on. Even if it is just for me, please."

I take a deep breath. There was no way for me to say no, especially when I could feel her looking at me with that loving look of hers.

"Alright. But just for you."