Page 5 of Worthy

“Looks like you’re going hiking.” He gestures towards my backpack. “And I’ve got plenty of people I can grab a ride from if needed. Plus, there’s the town bus. I’ll manage.”

“Do you do this for everyone who passes through town?” I draw my brows together.

“No. But you’re not passing through.” He stuffs his hands in his pockets again.

“I am though.”

“You sure about that?” He studies me. “Rick seemed to think you’d be here awhile. At least the summer.”

“That’s still passing through.”

“Stay here all summer, you’re practically a local. Locals take care of each other.” He grins as he leans a hip against the backhoe.

“Giving me your truck still seems excessive.” I chew on the inside of my cheek and force my gaze toward the road where it’s parked.

“Take it or don’t, up to you. But it’s the only way you’re going on your hike today. Unless you want me to take you.” He smiles coyly.

“Do you ever stop flirting?” I change the subject.

“This isn’t flirting, this is beinghospitable.” He winks, drawing attention to his impossibly blue eyes.

“Is there a difference with you?” I squint at him.

“Not really.” He laughs, stomach rippling as it contracts, and starts walking down the drive. “Come on, Solo. Let’s get you set up in my truck so you can do your hike.”

“Solo?” I trail behind him, keeping a safe distance between us.

“Yeah, you know, since you insist on doing everything yourself.” He glances over his shoulder, eyebrow cocked.

“Oh. I thought you were making some sort ofStar Warsreference."

“I’d like to think I’m more original than nicknaming someone after a movie character,” he says as he turns his head forward.

“What if I don’t want to be called Solo?”

“Invite me on your hike and I’ll have to find something else to call you.” He smirks conspiratorially.

“Don’t you have work to do?” I ask, exasperated.

“Nothing that can’t be done Monday.”

“You’re incorrigible,” I mumble.

“True.” He opens the door so I can climb in.

I admit I’m enjoying this little banter we have going, but I really don’t need the distraction of a hot guy this summer, especially one I think is the welcoming committee for any man, or woman, who sets foot in the town. I need to get away from him. I climb into the cab before he can help me with that.

“Your cousin doesn’t seem to like the idea of you leaving.” I nod toward the dark-haired guy who’s now frowning in our direction.

“Sorta forgot about him.” Cade chuckles, rubbing his neck as he peers up at me through wisps of blond hair. “He got here last week. I’m not used to having him around yet. Ah well, maybe I do need to get back to work. You know where you’re going?”

“Yes, Lupine Bluff.”

“That’s a good one, you’ll enjoy it. Watch out for the bats though.”

“Bats?”

“Yeah, you know. Black rodents with wings.” His stomach contracts as he tries not to laugh.

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