Page 16 of Tempting Promises
“I mean it, Charlotte. You may hate me, and I may think you’re a pain in the ass, but don’t let your pride stop you from asking for help.”
“I don’t need help, but thank you.”
And with that, I exit the car, ignoring the way my skin tingles where he touched me.
five
ROWAN
“Iwant to go hiking, but Mom won’t let me,” Olivia signs as she’s sitting on the seat of the quad.
“I’ll take you,” I promise her, and she practically bounces. “Just not on this trip.”
She rolls her eyes and sighs dramatically. “I don’t think you’re going on this trip since you can’t find your gear.”
This is true. We’ve been in the storage barn at Asher’s house for the last hour. I know I put it here because I didn’t want to clutter my barn. It’s much better to dump my shit at my brother’s.
“I think you moved my box.” I purse my lips as I sign.
“I did not.”
“I don’t believe you.”
Olivia looks affronted. “I do not lie.”
I walk over to her and smile. “I know. Can you help look?”
My niece’s eyes fill with mischief, and I know that look well. “I could, but it will cost you.”
Of course it will. The women in my life are maddening, even the young ones. “How much?”
“A fishing trip.”
I shake my head. “You get your mother and father to agree, and I’ll take you.”
“That will never happen.” Olivia huffs.
“Never say never.” I tap her nose.
I go back to searching for my hiking gear, and not five minutes later I hear my brother’s voice from behind. “What the hell are you doing out here?”
“Looking for my stuff!” I reply, moving another box.
“In my barn?”
“Yup.”
Olivia must tell him something because he replies aloud. “No, you can’t go fishing with Uncle Rowan.” My brother laughs at whatever she says. “You’re right, he doesn’t look like he’s going hiking on this trip either.”
“Fuck you, Asher. Have you seen my poles?” I turn to look at him.
“No.”
He’s so goddamn helpful. I swear.
“Go inside and help Phoebe make that horrendous soup she loves,” he signs to Olivia. Once she’s gone, I go back to my search and then he clears his throat. “So, how did your meeting in New York go?”
I pop my head around the stack of boxes. “Fine.”
