"Nothing. I like the way the heat tightens my skin and pinches."
"Do you remember," she asked softly, "once you said beauty is an external emotion?"
He answered drowsily, "Did I? I'm tired, dearest. Let's nap awhile."
"No. I want to hear you talk just a little."
He pressed his face into his arm, drawing his clothes carelessly over him for protection.
"I can't think of anything to say, Rachel, except that I'm content. The sun brings a luxurious pain into one's blood...."
"Yes, a luxurious pain," she repeated quietly. "Please let's talk."
"Too damn hot."
"I always expect you to say things. As if you knew things I didn't, Erik. I've always thought of you as knowing everything."
"Ordinarily I do," he mumbled.