Page 15 of All My Heart

Her lips twitched. “You do keep barreling into my life.”

“I promise this will be the last time.” I felt badly that I was making her time here less than ideal.

Something about the quirk of her lips told me she was enjoying our interactions. But I was so out of practice I wasn't positive about that. She could be just nice. “If you say so.” She pulled out her phone, and I took that as my cue to cook.

I was pleased I tore down the wall between the two rooms last night. I could keep an eye on her while I whisked the eggs and added milk.

Luna lowered her phone and looked at the hole in the wall between the rooms. “Is that what the junk is outside?”

“I tore down the wall last night.”

Her eyes widened. “You planning on renovating the cabin?”

“I didn't like how the wall blocked the view.” There were a lot of windows in the front and back of the house. Now I could see both in the kitchen.

“So you just tore down the wall?” Luna asked, admiration evident in her tone.

“I tested it first to make sure it wasn't load bearing.”

Her lips curved into a smile. “I would hope so.”

“I know things about construction.”

“You need any help?” Her voice was so hopeful I couldn't say no to her.

“You think you can with that knee?” I pointed the spatula at her leg.

“Give me a day or two. What are your plans for the place?”

I didn't have any until last night. But if it meant I could spend more time with my new neighbor, I'd make some. “I tore down the wall on a whim. But I guess I could use new furniture, appliances, and counters.”

“A complete overhaul?” Luna asked, excitement filling her voice.

“Whether I rent it out or sell, it would only increase the value, and I have nothing to do right now.”

“A project. I love it.”

I was worried a plan would create too much pressure, but the thought of fixing up this place was nice. “I suppose I could do it.”

“You're not sure?” Luna asked, shifting the ice on her knee.

“I wanted to ease back into things.”

“Just do one thing at a time. Like that wall.” She waved a hand at the empty space.

Since I tore down the wall, I'd felt freer. It was like I could breathe a little easier, which was ridiculous. It was just a wall.

I turned on the burner and poured the egg mixture into the pan.

“But I can understand if you just came here to lay low for a while.”

Because she was here for the same reason.

“But it could be fun.” Her voice moved closer to me.

I spun, only to find her leaning against the countertop. “You shouldn't be walking around.”

“My knee's fine.”

---