Page 8 of Trouble for the Mountain Man

Chapter 7

Hazel

Waking up in the bed alone I can’t help but stretch and grin. Last night was amazing. I never knew sex could be like that. Aidan had said he was going to prove I was sexy and he was right. Last night I had felt sexy. Worshiped. Maybe even loved.

I get up and get dressed. Ignoring the little voice inside my head telling me that just because we had great sex, it might not mean anything to him. I know from past experience that I get too caught up in feelings without thinking about the other person.

I find Aidan in the kitchen looking out the window.

He turns to look at me and I search his face for some sign of what he is feeling, but his expression is unreadable.

“The storm has passed. The roads should be safe to drive on now.”

“Oh.” He wants me to go. Just like every other relationship I have had, I have read too much into it. But I was so hoping this was different. Aidan made me feel things I have never felt before. Not just the fantastic sex, though that had certainly taught me things I hadn’t known about myself, but it is more than that.

I like spending time with him. I like being in the same room as him. I like talking by the fire, the way he cares about his family and about his work. I like how I feel when I’m with him, the wayhe looks at me, how I want his arms around me or just a smile from across the room.

“I guess I should leave then?” I ask in a quiet voice. I might be trying to take charge of my life but I’m not confident enough to demand that I stay longer. Not if he doesn’t want me here. And past experience says I am setting myself to feel like a fool once again.

“You don’t have to go straight away.” His voice sounds strange, like he might have a sore throat.

“It’s fine. It’s better that I go. It’s not like it was you who invited me up here and I don’t want to disrupt you from your work any more than I have already.”

“Actually, you’ve been a great help. There is no way I could have organised this mess by myself.”

I give a little nod. You hear that Hazel?

He likes you for your organizational skills.

Nothing about last night.

Nothing about wanting me to stay.

Nothing about how he is feeling. I’m sure he will be glad to see the back of me.

“If you can give me your sister’s number I will call her when I get to town. I’m guessing there is a hotel I can stay at?”

“I’ll drive you.” I recognise his no argument tone but I don’t feel like being told what to do by him right now.

“I have my car.”

“The roads are still muddy and that beat up hatchback isn’t safe. I’ll take you to town in my truck. We can sort out your car later.”

“What if I want to leave town straight away?”

“Tough. I’m not letting you drive on your own.”

I turn on my heel and gather my things. I can’t believe I thought his over protective vibe was a good thing. Maybe it would be if he cared for me at all. But I think he just likes being the one to call the shots. Well, good. I’m glad I’m leaving. Now if I could just convince that little pain in my heart that is begging me to stay.

Chapter 8

Aidan

You’re an idiot!

Like I don’t know that. But it is just like my sister Kia to not mince words.

You are being a fool. Do you want to be alone forever?

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