Chapter 20: Adventure
Sarah
The jeep lurches over another rocky outcrop, jolting me. I grip the seat, trying to steady myself as we bounce along the rugged terrain. The engine's roar fills my ears, but it can't drown out the deafening silence between Matthew and me.
I want to hold his arm to steady myself, but what if he swats it away right in front of Vanessa and Mark, embarrassing me?
I sneak a glance at him from the corner of my eye. His jaw is clenched, hands gripping the wheel so tightly his knuckles are white. The muscles in his forearms flex with each turn, and I can't help but admire the strength evident in every line of his body. It's a strength that both attracts and terrifies me.
"You okay there, Sarah?" Vanessa's cheerful voice breaks through my reverie. "You're looking a bit green around the gills."
I force a smile, grateful for the distraction. "Just not used to such a bumpy ride, I guess."
"Oh, honey, you should have seen the roads in Thailand last year," she laughs, launching into a story about their previous travels.
I nod along, trying to focus on her words.
"Sarah," Matthew says. "Pass me the water bottle."
I reach for it and hand it to him. Our hands brush, and a jolt of electricity shoots through me.
"Thanks," he says curtly, breaking the contact.