Page 38 of Mountain Boss

“I’m headed this way.” Fisher’s words break through my spiral.

I glance up, making sure to smile. “Thanks again.”

“Anytime. See ya.” He spins away from me.

My smile drops.

End. Of. The fucking month.

Defeat feels heavy around my ankles, making it hard to lift my feet.

Maybe I could ask Mr. Black for an advance?

I take a step toward my cabin.

Maybe I could convince him to pay me weekly. Just for my first month.

Maybe…

My eyes lift at the sound of footsteps.

A pair of dark brown eyes stare back at me.

Sterling narrows his gaze.

And I feel it.

I feel the cool track of a tear sliding down my cheek.

My stomach sinks with that roller-coaster feeling.

I force my mouth into another smile.

But I think I get it wrong.

I think I make it too big.

And I know… I know I can’t ask this man for money.

Even if I’ve earned it.

Even if I’m going to keep working for it.

Even if I’m worth it…

I can’t ask him.

Because he’ll say no.

I feel a second tear ready to fall. But I can’t let it.

Can’t let him see it.

Dropping my gaze, I rush forward and off the trail, moving around Mr. Black without a word.

I see movement out of the corner of my eye as I pass him. As though he may have been reaching for me.

But I keep moving, silently cursing myself for being so weak.

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