Below the Belt

Mark caught up with Chloe just as she reached the poolside. He wrapped an arm around her waist, turning her away from the water.

“Got you,” he whispered triumphantly.

Chloe glanced over her shoulder. Her smile was far too innocent.

“Are you sure?”

Mark had just enough time to look suspicious.

Then Chloe drove her knee upward with startling precision.

"OOOF!"

Mark's arm flew open. He staggered backward, both hands clamped protectively between his legs, and doubled over with a strangled gasp.

“Chloe,” he wheezed.

She snatched her pink bikini top from his grip and hopped out of reach.

“What?” she asked. “Did I hurt your pride?”

Mark tried to answer. What emerged was a breathless, indignant squeak.

“That was below the belt,” he finally managed.

Chloe gave him a sweet smile.

“Literally.”

She winked playfully.

“I believe we're even.”

Mark slowly straightened, his expression promising revenge.

Chloe's smile faltered.

“Oh. You're not actually planning another round, are you?”

She squealed and bolted for the pool.

Mark hobbled after her, muttering dark threats about payback.