Page 144 of Falling for Love

“What are you even doing here? You’re supposed to be at Red Barn Cider with the contractors.”

“I came to check on you,” he said, glancing toward Macy, who was now happily munching on the grain. “And to help. Though, clearly, you’ve got it all under control.”

He grabbed a rag from the barn and helped to wipe me off.

“Oh yeah, totally,” I said, brushing more mud off my clothes. “Everything’s going exactly as planned.”

With zero effort, Liam walked over to Macy and clipped the lead rope onto her halter. The zebra didn’t even flinch; she just kept eating like she hadn’t spent the last hour making my life miserable.

I stared at them, my mouth falling open. “Are you kidding me?”

“What?” Liam asked, his face the picture of innocence. “She likes me.”

I threw my hands up. “Of course she does. Everyone likes you.”

His grin widened as he led Macy back toward her pen.

“Everyone, huh? Even you?”

I narrowed my eyes, ignoring how my heart fluttered at his teasing tone.

“Don’t push your luck.”

He chuckled, securing Macy in her pen before turning back to me. “You know, I think the mud suits you.”

I shot him a look. “You’re enjoying this way too much.”

“Guilty as charged,” he said, his eyes glinting with mischief. “But hey, at least you’re giving me plenty of material for future jokes.”

“Oh, great,” I muttered, crossing my arms. “Can’t wait to hear those.”

He stepped closer, his expression softening just enough to make my breath catch.

“You know I’m just teasing, right?”

I nodded, my heart beating a little faster. “Yeah, I know.”

We just stood there for a moment, the playful banter giving way to something quieter. His gaze lingered on mine, and I felt that familiar pull between us—the one that always seemed to catch me off guard.

“You’ve got mud on your nose,” he said, his voice low.

“I’m sure that’s not the only place.” I reached up to swipe it away, but he caught my hand, shaking his head. “Let me.”

Before I could protest, he reached out and gently wiped the spot with his thumb.

“Better,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Thanks,” I managed, my cheeks heating despite the cool air.

He didn’t move, his hand still hovering near my face. “Evie...”

The sound of Macy kicking her stall broke the moment, and I stepped back, clearing my throat.

“We should, uh... check the gate. Make sure she can’t get out again.”

“Right,” Liam said, his voice rough as he stepped back too. “Wouldn’t want her causing more trouble.”

As I leaned against the gate, my arms crossed and my eyes narrowing at Liam, I couldn’t help but feel like I was missing something.

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