Page 11 of Wild Hearts

“You sleep above the barn?” I ask.

“My parents had an apartment put in up there for me when I turned seventeen. I usually stay there when I come back.” Striker takes a bite of food.

“Then why did you stay in here?” I frown.

“My place only has one bed. You’re my guest, I didn’t want to abandon you.” He shrugs. “Brothers don’t leave each other behind.”

I grimace at the reminder. He’s my brother, and I’ve spent more time than what’s appropriate thinking about his sister today.

“As long as me staying here is okay with Shane.” I look at the woman in question. “I’m cool with you staying at your place. I don’t need a babysitter, Striker.”

“Doesn’t bother me any,” she says with a smile.

Striker’s quiet for a minute. “If you’re sure.”

“Of course. Besides, I know Mick’s good people. I have his mother on speed dial and he’s your best friend.”

While her words reassure him, they make me uneasy.

Why does the thought of not being with this woman make me feel this way?

“Sweet. I’m not going to lie, I’ve missed my place.” Striker looks lighter already. “Let’s finish eating, then get to work.”

I pick up my empty plate and take it to the sink. “Then I guess you better hurry up. I’ll go get our tools ready.”

As I walk out the door, I hear him mutter to Shane, “He’s a cheeky ass, isn’t he?”

Chapter 4

Shane

Idrag my ass up the stairs after a long day of taking a couple customers rock climbing.

Yesterday was a much-needed rest day. Not only did I actually get to rest, but I was able to focus more on the books since the guys had the house chores taken care of. I’m now up to date on my books.

It feels like a weight has been lifted off of my shoulders.

If only my body agreed. It feels like I’ve walked ten thousand miles.

“Hey, you,” a voice calls from behind me.

I turn around and see Mick standing at the bottom of the stairs, wiping his hands on a towel.

“Hey, how’s it going?”

I can’t help it. It’s only been a couple of days, but every time I see him, my heart races.

I haven’t had such strong feelings for a man in a long time. I have to remind myself that he’s only here for a little while. That, and he probably only sees me as his friend’s little sister.

“Not too bad. Your brother made us stop early for the day.”

“Get much done?” I ask, leaning against the railing.

“Managed to clean up the back half of the property and made a burn pile from all the debris. With the number of dead trees we found you should be set with firewood for a while,” he teases, making me laugh.

“Thank you for doing your part in keeping me warm next winter,” I say, making us both smile.

We fall into silence, just staring at each other.

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