Page 21 of Love Me Dangerous

“For now.”

He arches an eyebrow. “Then what?”

“Finishing college, then grad school.”

“Grad school, huh? What do you want to study?”

“Psychology.”

His eyebrow arches up. “Is that why you’re so nosy?”

“Just because you’re elusive makes me nosy?”

“Elusive, huh?” His sly smile makes my face prickle and heat to pool low in my belly. “I like that.”

I force down a swallow to give myself space to formulate an appropriate reply. “How long will you be in Finn River?”

He doesn’t answer. Back to being elusive.

“Are you in employee housing?” Some workers come from as far as Boise every day. Some are offered lodging at the dorm in town. If he’s using this option, that would explain why he would already be on the bus.

“Why? You going to visit?”

This feels dangerously like flirting, and it’s addicting. “I might.”

His tanned face is impossible to read, but he presses his lips together like he’s trying to hide a smile.

“If you’re not in housing, then where are you staying?”

He flashes me that grin, wider this time. Like he’s enjoying the art of being elusive.

I pretend I’m not flustered. Since I have no idea if or when I’ll be able to talk to him again, I ask, “So what’s this ‘in the field’ job?” I put air quotes aroundin the field.

The view opens up to an endless horizon of high peaks, some capped with early snowfall, and broad basins. The lift terminus nears.

“I’m not building fences, if that’s what you’re worried about.”

Oh, now he thinks he can read my mind? “Then what are you doing out there?” My exasperated tone only seems to amuse him more.

The chair slows as we cruise into the landing area.

“There’s live music every Saturday night at The Limelight,” I blurt over the rising hum from the lift’s bullwheel. “You should come.”

“Why?”

I give him a look. “Because it’s fun.”

Two lifties are sunning themselves in Adirondack chairs while classic rock music blares from a portable speaker. They give us a wave as we walk clear of the chair and down the grassy ramp.

With one final blank look, Zach slings his backpack onto his shoulders and continues walking.

Chasing after him is tempting, but I’m pushing my luck as it is with timing. I shouldn’t drink in the sight of him sauntering away, his work jeans hugging his nice backside just right, or the way his broad shoulders fill out his work shirt. And I should forget the way my belly warmed, and my thighs tensed when he smiled and said,I like that.

Why did I invite him to The Limelight?

“You’re a long way from home, girlie,” one of the lifties says from his lounge chair, bobbing his head to the music.

I force my eyes from Zach so I can bum a ride down.

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