Page 201 of Mountain Grump

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Chapter 107

Ethan

Gravel kicksup behind me as I make my way down Tilda’s driveway.

I wanted to come here straight from work, but I had to run into Lonely to get a screen door kit from the hardware store.

I also got a bag of takeout tacos because I plan to stay.

I make the last turn in the long driveway and take my foot off the gas.

“What the…”

Two cars are parked, blocking the driveway.

Blocking the way between me and my girl.

Two cars. With Nevada plates.

And as I get closer, I see thegroupof people standing in front of Tilda’s house.

I press my foot down on the gas.

Being reckless, and not giving a single fuck about it, I steer off the driveway, up into the grass, my truck at an angle as the ground slopes up toward the park.

All heads turn my way. And when I veer back onto the driveway, I slam on my brakes, sending a dust cloud and bits of rock at Tilda’s rotten family.

Chapter 108

Tilda

My family has been outsidefor hours.

When they first got here, they shouted things at the house. I heard them jiggling the doorknob, testing if it was locked. I peeked out the bedroom curtains to see my cousin circle the house.

And I wanted to scream.

Wanted to shout at them toget off my lawn.

But since my garage door is closed, and I haven’t made a peep, I’m pretty sure they think I’m not home.

They’re still here, though. Waiting.

And if they…

I sit up.

Then I scramble off my bed.

At the doorway, I pause, then peek my head out into the living room.

My family is still there, standing outside, but now they’re faced away from the house.

And my heart lurches when Ethan’s truck roars into view.

Chapter 109

Ethan

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