Page 8 of While We Waited

“No.” I block the door. “One little itty bitty sip of a beer is all I ask.”

“It won’t make a difference. I’m not interested in switching suppliers.”

“You don’t have to switch suppliers. You can addFive Fathomsto your current array of beers, wines, and spirits.”

He motions for me to get out of his way. “I’m a busy man. I don’t have time for this.”

I tilt my head and study him. “Can’t you do math?”

He growls. “Being a football player doesn’t make me stupid.”

“I’m not saying you are. But think about it. If you try the beer and don’t enjoy it, I’ll stop bothering you. No more phone calls. No more surprise visits. Nova Myers will cease to exist for you.”

He scowls. “This is ridiculous.” He motions to the door. “Move.”

“No.” I slam the door shut.

“Fuck.” He rubs the back of his neck.

“Don’t be such a sourpuss. Try the beer.” I wave my bag at him. “And you can leave.”

“No, I can’t.”

My brow wrinkles. “What? What do you mean?”

He points to the door. “You locked us in.”

“You’re holding an entire ring of keys.”

“Which work from the outside. The inner lock hasn’t been configured yet.”

“Surely, you can phone someone to open the door for us.”

He wiggles his phone. “No reception here.”

I dig my phone out of my bag and unlock it. “No bars.”

“We’re locked in until the construction crew returns.”

I check the time. It’s barely four. “The workday isn’t done yet.”

“Wrong. They needed supplies and quit early. They aren’t planning to return until tomorrow.”

I gulp. “Tomorrow?”

He nods. “Tomorrow.”

I’m stuck in this chalet with the King of Grumps for an entire night? My body tingles. I ignore it. Hudson may be the sexiest man I’ve ever seen. But nothing is happening here. He doesn’t want me and I don’t want him.

Liar.

I ignore the little voice in the back of my mind. She’s wrong. I’m notthatdesperate for a man to love. I won’t throw myself at Hudson who’s made it perfectly clear he doesn’t want to spend any time with me.

I need a diversion. Lucky for me, I’ve got the perfect one in my hand.

I lift the bag I’m carrying. “Good thing I have drinks and snacks then.” His stomach growls and I grin. I’ve got him now.

“Have a seat.” I motion toward the sofa before making my way to the kitchenette. Although, referring to this area as a kitchenette is an understatement. It’s nicer than my kitchen at home with its marble countertops, teak cabinets, and stainless steel appliances.

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