Page 83 of Mountain Boss

One table is full, two more are mostly full, and since I don’t feel like wedging between people, I move to one of the empty tables and sit at the end of the bench, with my back facing the wall.

The man who caughtthe big fishsets his plate across from mine, dropping onto the bench with a groan.

“I’m gonna sleep like the fucking dead tonight.” He shakes his head as he opens his crackers. “No idea how you guys do that rough sleeping all year round.”

I purse my lips, wondering if he’s forgotten my role and thinks I’m a guide too, when a plate gets set down next to mine.

Flannel flashes in my periphery, and that’s all I need to see to know who it is.

Chapter 61

Sterling

The manwho had been behind me in line snorts as I set down my plate.

The fucker was making a beeline to sit next to my Courtney.

I shoot him a narrow-eyed look.

He dips his chin, fighting off a smile as he moves around to sit across from me.

That’s right, buddy, move fucking along.

Chapter 62

Courtney

I trymy best to act unaffected as a long leg steps over the bench inches from my hip.

Act normal.

Sterling shifts, bringing his other leg over, then sits beside me.

He’s so big. His shoulders are so wide. I feel like I should scoot over to give him more room.

But he’s the one who sat so close. And I’m already on the edge of the bench.

Plus—I discreetly inhale through my nose—he smells too damn good to move away.

Like soap and sandalwood.

And he’s probably extra warm from his shower.

Does he take his time?

Does he rush through?

Naked… Slippery with suds.

I start to lean toward him before I catch myself.

What the fuck, Courtney? Get your shit together.

You cannot be sniffing your boss.

Pressing my lips together, I look up, hoping no one noticed my swaytoward Sterling.

The table has filled up in the minute I’ve been daydreaming. And everyone seems to be in conversation.

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