Tyler realizes she is naked, but is helpful

Jenn kept her arms crossed tightly over her chest, forcing a strained laugh at Chris’s joke about chlorine giving him “permanent swimmer’s hair.” Matt splashed water playfully in her direction, grinning like a kid.

She swam backward, her nipples briefly surfacing out of the water, keeping the pool lights at her back so the water could do its work hiding her. Every second felt like a miracle she hadn’t been caught.

Tyler drifted a little closer, his strokes slow and deliberate. His easy smile softened when their eyes met, and for the first time all night, Jenn felt like someone was actually looking at her, not just at a potential flirt.

He leaned in, voice low. “Hey… are you naked?”

Jenn’s breath caught. Panic shot through her chest. “Wh-what?” she whispered back, eyes wide.

Tyler’s expression didn’t change. He kept it casual, like they were talking about the weather. But under the surface, his gaze darted down her body, realizing it was bare, before flicking back up to her face. He gave a tiny nod. “Yeah. That’s what I thought.”

Jenn’s cheeks burned so hot she was amazed the water didn’t start steaming. She opened her mouth to protest, but Tyler raised a hand subtly, cutting her off.

“Relax. I’m not saying anything.” His voice was steady, quiet enough that Chris and Matt wouldn’t overhear. “You’re safe. I’ll help hide you.”

Jenn blinked at him, stunned. For the first time since the treadmill had eaten her pants, she felt a sliver of relief.