Hannah sat on a rock, still catching her breath, her face flushed as she gave a thumbs up.

I had to admit, the thrill was addictive - I wanted to experience it again.

After securing the ropes, Tristan and Roy led us deeper into the cave.

We soon reached a fork in the path.

"Right side!" Vicky said confidently.

Hannah and I, weighed down by our backpacks, started lagging behind. The passage grew narrower until we had to turn sideways to squeeze through.

Tristan and Roy exchanged looks before suggesting we leave our bags behind. "We'll scout ahead first. If it's a dead end, we'll come back."

Being novices, we followed their lead.

Soon we heard running water, and the path leveled out.

"Something touched me!"

Hannah's shriek pierced the air.

Standing right behind her, I saw a dark shape dart through the water. Startled, I stumbled backward into what felt like a wall of muscle, as strong hands steadied me.

Given our height difference, when Roy caught me, his hands accidentally brushed against my chest. Too scared to care, I pressed myself against him.

Sensing my fear, he turned me around to face him.

We stood pressed together on a narrow ledge barely big enough for two. In the darkness, with the sound of rushing water and wind playing with my senses, I clung to him tightly.

In that moment, he was my only source of security. I didn't want to let go.

I wanted to wrap myself around him and...

"Don't be scared."

Roy chuckled softly, "They're just cave fish. Harmless."

Vicky called out reassuringly, "Really, fish are the only creatures down here."

Even Hannah had calmed down now. "Hey, you two can stop hugging now - let's keep moving."

Seriously? Coming from the one who just screamed bloody murder?

Soon we reached a pool of water, and the distinct smell of sulfur filled the air.

So it was true - there really was a natural hot spring here.

"Finally! Time to relax!"

Vicky stripped off her jacket, revealing her petite frame in a swimsuit that showed off her fair skin.

Tristan took off his jacket too, and they jumped in together, splashing and laughing.

Hannah called for me to undress, but I clutched my jacket tightly.

She hadn't mentioned anything about hot springs with strangers before.

I'm married, for heaven's sake.