Page 23 of A Billionaire's Cabin Love

**P**

I parked in the circular drive outside Kara’s house. Slipping my hat over my ears, I hopped out of the truck.

Deep breath, Collin.

My knuckles rattled against the thick wooden door.

The crisp air swept through my body. Clearly, I wasn’t dressed for sledding today. I shoved my hands in my pockets.

“Who is it?”

“Collin.”

“You shouldn’t be here. I assigned Ernie to your remaining outings.”

“Kara, you know it’s freezing out here. Please, can we talk?”

“Collin, there’s nothing to talk about.”

“Ok, fine. I’ll wait out here until you open the door.”

I sat in one of the rocking chairs on the porch. There was no way I’d leave without seeing her face. Not sure how I’d make it right, but I had to. She needed to know I was serious. I flipped my heavy hood over my head and stared out into the distance. The scenery was beautiful. I understood why she said it was her forever home.

The front door creaked open. Not sure how much time went by, but it felt like an hour.

I jumped up and peered at her through the screen door.

“Come in.” Her long dark hair cascaded over her shoulders. She looked perfect in her gray T-shirt, black leggings, and gray fluffy socks. Sure, I dated models who only wore dresses, but Kara was different. I didn’t care if she dressed up every day. All I cared about was staring into those eyes.

“I’ll hang your coat. Leave your boots on the mat. You can have a seat by the fireplace.”

I slipped my hat off of my head and shoved it in my coat pocket.

“Would you like a cup of tea?”

“Yes, and a bottle of water. I need to take two aspirin.”

She smirked. “Do you have a hangover?”

“A slight hangover. More of a headache.”

“My dad let you drive one of the trucks I see.”

“Yeah.” I sat on the sofa close by the fireplace. “He understood I needed to see you.”

“I can’t be your tour guide,” she announced from her spacious kitchen.

“I’d like it if you’d be my personal guide.”

“What’s that?” She twisted her cute face.

“We’d spend time together outside of you being my guide.”

“No, Collin.” She rested her elbows on the counter, cradling her face.

“I’m so embarrassed. When I stepped in the house, I remembered I told you I dreamed about you pleasing me before you arrived. You probably think I’m so pathetic. Attracted to a customer I hadn’t met. Then I begged you to…” She shook her head and dropped her head on her arms on the counter.

I ran over, sat her on the counter, and held her in my arms. “I don’t want you to be embarrassed. I’m ashamed of myself.”

---