Page 38 of More Than a Helping Hand

When I get to the living room, Bailey throws her arms around me, then crinkles her nose. But she doesn’t say anything about my stink or sweat.

“Thank you for moving my stuff. Are you going to put my bed together?”

“I can do that. Whatever your mom wants me to do.” I give her another quick hug. “Have fun with your cousins.”

“I will.” She runs over to a woman who resembles Primrose. “I’m ready.”

The woman shoots Primrose a look, then extends her hand. “I’m Paisley. Bailey’s Aunt.”

“Nice to meet you. I’m Anderson. I work with Parker.”

“I’ve heard.” She points at Bailey. “From your number-one fan.” After a wave, she walks away, leaving me alone with Primrose.

“I feel horrible that everyone else had to leave. You shouldn’t be the last one here helping me. But I appreciate it. Thank you for everything.” She walks toward the door, acting like I’m about to leave.

“Since you owe me, I have an idea.”

“What’s that?”

“Let me run and get us food, and then I’ll help you set up beds, move furniture, or whatever you need.”

“You don’t really get what it means when someone owes you, do you? I’m supposed to do something for you, not have you do more stuff for me.”

“I want to spend more time with you.” I sniff my shirt. “But I might run by my cabin and shower really quick. I smell pretty horrendous.”

“It’s July, and you’ve been moving heavy stuff. That’s understandable. And I am hungry, so food sounds good.”

“Awesome.” I fish keys out of my pocket. “I won’t be long. Barbecue okay with you?”

She steps closer, then motions for me to lean down. And when I do, she wraps her arms around my neck. “I expected that you would’ve run away by now.”

“I’m not going anywhere.” I hug her tight, then let go when she shifts away. “Well, I’m going home to shower and change, and then I’m grabbing dinner. But I mean relationship wise.”

“I don’t understand. You seriously want to come back here and keep working?”

I brush a knuckle on her cheek. “I’m not that complicated. And yes, as long as you’ll be here too.”

CHAPTER15

PRIMROSE

As soon as Anderson leaves, I race back to my room, hoping I can shower and look presentable before he returns. He isn’t the only one sweaty after moving. Mom’s idea to pack an overnight bag was fabulous, and I need to remember to thank her.

I’m blow-drying my hair when Anderson calls.

“Hi. Did you get lost?”

“Nope. I’m in the parking lot, headed your way.”

“Thanks for the warning.” I say it as a joke, but there’s a bit of truth because I’m half-dressed, and my hair is still wet. The hot water distracted me, and I spent too much time in the shower.

I pull on a shirt, then dry my hair with a towel. And as I walk down the hall, I hear him knock.

He grins when I open the door. “Brisket, a selection of sides because I forgot to ask what you like, and banana pudding.”

“You can put it on the table. I’ll grab drinks.” I open the fridge, glad that I thought to chill a few cans of sparkling water.

I carry the drinks to the table, trying to ignore the mess in the kitchen. “I haven’t been into the kitchen since Bailey made herself a snack. It looks like someone had a food fight. But I’ll take care of it after we eat.”

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