The sun burnt white against the clear blue sky. The sweat soaked her skin making her blouse cling to her shoulders and breasts. The path ran alongside a creek, here the stream widened into a pool. She looked down wishing she could have a swim. So lost in thoughts about jumping into the cool dark pool she failed to hear the horse approaching on the path. The rider's greeting startled her from her repose, she stumbled, slipping on the grass and toppling into the water.
The rider leapt from his horse, "Can I help you out?" He was tall and tanned, a wild blonde beard, a look of concern in his grey-blue eyes.
She laughed, "I should be fine thanks," ducking her head under the water to feel it's refreshing coolness flowing over her again.
She watched his eyes. Saw them lingering on her as she ran her hands through her long wet hair. The normally brilliant red darkened to larva by the water.
He looked away aware he was staring.
"You should come in. This is a decent sized pool there's room enough for two us." She watched him, his eyes looking over the water, once again slowing down as they passed her.
He removed his dust covered boots before peeling off his shirt. The contours of his muscles clearly visible in the bright sunshine. Her eyes lingered upon him as he eased himself into the pool. She saw his grey eyes widen as he felt the cold rush of the stream against his skin.
