Page 3 of A Very Grumpy Mountain Man

TWO

Sienna

What luck!

I spent most of the morning going door to door in my new little town, trying to find a job without any luck. I was about to head back to my apartment to grab lunch and regroup when that man approached me.

When I first saw Kye head my way, I thought I was dreaming. Men who look like him never pay attention to me, but he was totally focused. Locked in on me.

It sent a thrill racing down my spine, and I swear I had to check if I was drooling. The man was so hot. So tall, and broad, and handsome. His dark blue eyes looked like they could see right through me. I’m not used to that. Usually, people overlook me. I’ve always been the small, chubby girl. Usually, people overlook me. I’ve always been the small, chubby girl—quiet at the edges, smiling from the sidelines. The wallflower with a laugh too loud to match. The girl who cheers for everyone else but never gets chosen herself.

That’s part of the reason I packed up and moved here. I wanted a fresh start. I wanted things in my life to be different. I thought if I got out of my hometown, out of my little bubble, things would start looking up for me. Things would have to change.

Looks like I’m already right about that.

It’s my third day in town, and I’ve already talked to a hot man and got a job! My apartment may be small, but it’s enough for me.

I smile as I tie my hair up in a high ponytail, giving my reflection one last glance. Makeup’s never really been my thing, so I swiped on some mascara and called it good. My favorite purple T-shirt and a pair of jeans will have to do—I’m not even sure what job I’ll be doing, or how I should’ve dressed. Probably should’ve asked yesterday… but I was too excited about finally landing something to remember the details.

When I looked up the address online, it led to a house in the woods—no company attached to it.

Maybe I should be worried about driving up to a cabin in the woods to start a new job I know nothing about, but I don’t think Kye would hurt me. In fact, I get the feeling he would do anything to keep me safe. But that could be me being optimistic.

I grab my keys and head out the door.

Guess I’m about to find out.

I grin as I drive through downtown Wolf Valley. This small town is so unlike my hometown, and I love it. I love how everyone seems to know each other, the sense of community, and closeness.

It’s probably close to ninety degrees in Orlando with a hundred percent humidity. Here, it’s cooler, with a pleasant breeze blowing through my open windows. I can’t wait until winter when it snows.

My thoughts shift to Kye, and my cheeks heat as I think about my hot new boss. I’ve never had a crush on anyone before, but one look at Kye andbam.I suddenly have the urge to scribble Mrs. Kye Lightfield over and over in my notebook.

Too bad I can’t make a move on him.

Even if I did feel confident enough to attempt it, I can’t risk losing my new job. My boss is completely off-limits. I need to remember that.

But I have a feeling it’ll be hard.

It’s not like Kye would be interested in me anyway. He’s perfect. So broody and handsome and fit. I’m a plus size and kind of a mess right now. I don’t have anything in my life figured out, and I get the impression that Kye does.

We’re polar opposites.

We’ll be boss and employee, nothing more.Maybe friends if I’m lucky. Don’t hope for more than that.

Pulling into his driveway, I take a deep breath and park next to his SUV. I look up at the house and smile.

Time to get to work.

THREE

Kye

I stand stock still,staring out the front window. I’ve been looking for Sienna’s car for the past hour, desperate for another glimpse of my girl.

I don’t know how Camden can stand to be away from Lymric when she’s working. I’m losing it and frantic to be around her again.

Finally, I spot the same old, beige car from yesterday pulling into my driveway. Letting out a huge exhale, I move to answer the door.

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