Page 44 of Ice, Ice… Maybe?

I miss you – and I’ll bring a blanket so we can snuggle.

You had me at ‘Are you up?’

Is there an alarm on the house?

No.

Any squeaky steps or noisemakers I need to worry about? Any automatic flood lights that shine directly into bedrooms? Any sharpshooter neighbors?

(Can you tell I’m nervous?) ??

Don’t be – I’m leaving my room now. ??

Becca tossed back her quilt and yanked a robe over her pajamas, tying the belt at her waist as she opened her door to slip into the hallway – only to come face-to-face with Jason.

“Whatcha doing?” her brother asked just as the door to the guest bedroom opened. Her brother arched an eyebrow as she glared at him.

“Back off.”

“Is this what I think it is?”

“No, we are going to sit on the deck so we can talk.”

“You can talk in the living room, and I’ll join you.”

“Then I’m leaving –right now.”

“Becca,” Travis interrupted, and Jason held up a hand, almost arrogantly, not looking away from her. His eyes met hers, staring her down, and she wasn’t budging an inch. She was a grown woman and falling in love with Travis.Her brother was going to have to relax a bit and let down his guard or…The thought died in her mind as her brother gave her slow wink and stepped back away from her.

“Don’t forget to lock the door when you come back in. Good night y’all.”

And with that – Jason went back to his bedroom down the hallway.

“C’mon…”

Becca gaped at his back, wondering for a moment if he was going to get a rifle… only to feel Travis touch her hand a moment later, tugging her away from the bedrooms nearby. She followed silently, knowing her questions would be unanswered for a few moments until they got outside where they could talk.

Travis took a seat on the small glider, sitting sideways, and patted the seat, indicating where she should sit. Not hesitating, Becca sat down and put her back against his chest as he wrapped the blanket around the two of them in the evening air.

“My brother just…” she began, sputtering and surprised at what just happened. Usually Jason would lose his temper or start bossing her around - but he gave in. Jason actually yielded to her - and Travis.

“I like him – a lot.”

And she sighed as Travis’s arms curled around her, holding her close. They really didn’t need to talk or say anything – and she loved that about them. It was like just being close recharged her soul, and while he had been close all day, this was different. She had his attention and loved it.

“I’m glad you are getting along.”

“I think we came to an understanding - or at least I hope so,” Travis said quietly, leaning down to kiss her temple. “I really like them, and the more we talked, the easier things got. I’m not going to lie; it was rocky there for a few moments, but we worked it out.”

“Oh? What happened.”

“Nothing worth discussing – it’s in the past, and I’d rather just enjoy these moments with you.”

“Same,” she whispered, relaxing against him once more. They sat there for a few minutes before she heard Travis speak once more. His voice was hushed, almost hesitant as he began.

“The older outbuildings could be renovated into cabins,” he said softly. “I saw there are a couple of old houses just sitting in the distance, with for sale signs. Are those yours?”

“No. They are zoned commercial, and Jason tried to get them rezoned to farmland or residential, but the city wouldn’t budge. They’ve been for sale for three years or so.”

---