Steve Burton was initially stunned, then he took a sip of coffee and hummed. After a moment, he casually asked, "How do you feel now?"
Ruby Gregory smiled again, "Much better."
Steve's eyes softened, and he just nodded before lowering his head to drink his coffee, his Adam's apple moving beautifully up and down as he swallowed.
After finishing his coffee, Steve stood up and removed his bathrobe without any hesitation, jumping into the water. He swam gracefully and skillfully on his back to the other side, then swam back using the breaststroke, resting at the edge of the pool. He looked at Ruby and asked, "Do you want to swim?"
Ruby shook her head, "No."
Steve didn't speak anymore and just turned around.
Ruby couldn't see Steve's expression, and wasn't sure if he was upset because of her refusal. She bit her lower lip and called out, "Steve."
Steve hadn't expected Ruby to suddenly say his name, and he paused for a moment, turning his head and responding with a gentle "Hmm?"
