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"Do you think I'm stupid?" Hazel asked, a bit put out.

Will shook his head. "No, I think you've never swam in the ocean before and that you could very easily get dragged away by a current before you even realize what's happening."

This was like the 'lost in the woods' thing all over again. She tried very hard not to be annoyed with him by reminding herself that he was only being a worrywart because he cared. He had lost someone before and now that he liked her he didn't want to lose her too.

She sighed. "Hold my hand if it'll make you feel better. You can probably swim faster than I can anyway."

He accepted her offer immediately. It felt strange having her hand held underwater but she ignored that and listened to the guide telling them which way to go. It was finally time!

Hazel kicked her legs and was propelled forward with some help from the snorkeling fins she was wearing (and Will). She stuck her face under the surface of the water at the guide's signal.