Page 10 of Mountain Gift

It's chaotic, it's loud, it's essentially the epitome of my family gatherings. And though I'm physically present, my mind is somewhere else entirely.

I can barely register a word that's being said. I'm in my own world, acutely aware of Boone's every move, every breath.

When dinner is over, my brothers all head out together since they're all going in the same direction anyway.

Cody helps Daphne with her big coat and snow pants, Callum smothers Penny's forehead in kisses as she slips on her pea coat, and Carter gently wakes Natalie up from her slumber.

One by one, they all leave, waving goodbye and blowing fake kisses at me and Boone.

And then I shut the door, and we're alone in the quiet house together.

"I'll go get your room ready," I tell him.

Boone gives me a warm smile. "I'm going to run to my truck and grab my bag while you do that."

He heads outside, and my mind starts spinning as I wonder what's going on in his head. I half-expected him to bring up our earlier encounter, to question the unspoken tension hanging between us. But he didn't. Maybe I'm the only one caught up in this whirlwind of emotions.

A few minutes later, Boone returns, and I lead him up the stairs, feeling a little nervous about how messy the guest room might be.

I open the guest room door and quickly scan the surroundings.

The bed is made, at least, but there are a few stacks of books on the bedside table, and a box of Christmas decorations that I never put away is gathering dust in the corner.

"I'm sorry about the mess," I say, turning back toward Boone. "I wasn't expecting company."

He chuckles. "I'm not going to judge you, baby. I'm just happy to be here." Then he steps in front of me into the room, his eyes sweeping over the space with interest.

"It's cozy," he says. "I like it."

For some reason, I find myself feeling inexplicably pleased with his approval.

"I'm glad you think so," I reply, swallowing nervously. "Well, I'll be just across the hall if you need me. Goodnight."

As I turn to leave the room, I feel Boone's warm hand on my wrist, stopping me.

"Hang on a second," he murmurs. His touch is gentle yet firm, anchoring me in place. I turn back to face him.

"What time are you getting up tomorrow?" He asks.

I give him a curious look. "Why do you want to know?"

"Because I'm taking you to work. I saw your car when I went out to my truck. I don't want you driving it again until I take a look at it."

I blush at his sweet gesture. I can't help but think about how much I secretly love the way he takes care of me. I've been alone for so long that I've almost forgotten what it feels like.

"Oh. I leave around 9 a.m.," I reply.

Boone reaches out to run his thumb across my cheek. "Got it," he murmurs. His eyes drop to my mouth. "9 a.m. it is."

Then he tugs me against his chest and brushes his lips against mine.

He threads his fingers through the hair at the nape of my neck as he licks his way into my mouth.

Goosebumps pebble on my skin as his tongue slides across mine, and I can already feel the familiar heat building in my core again.

But just as I feel myself start to give in, I feel a pang of guilt in my chest.

I pull away and take a step back.

---