Chapter 76: Lanterns

Dan led Midori along the walkway at the side of the lake, passing around the infinity pool, until they arrived at the wooden dock. At the end of it was a floating wooden boat, about the size of a dinghy, secured to the dock by a rope.

"You wanna ride?" Dan asked her as she was fixated on the boat.

"Based on my experience on marine vessels, what do you think?"

He chuckled. "Hey, I saved you back then...managed to keep you alive. You don't trust me on this one?"

Midori suddenly pecked on his cheek. "Fine...if you say so." She then had a bashful smile as she blushed under the moonlight.

He chuckled again and flashed his pearly whites. He gently tugged at her hand to guide her into the boat. He also rode with ease and untied the rope.

He began paddling and soon they were in the middle of the lake. She watched him row the boat as she tried to calm herself from the trauma of the shipwreck. She kept on looking at him for a sense of security.