Page 81 of Mountain Grump
Tilda’s hands grip the front of my shirt, holding me in place.
I always feel like a beast when I’m near her. And especially this morning.
I’m in my usual clothes. Old jeans. Old flannel. Old boots. And she looks ready for a party.
Her hair is down around her shoulders in curls that I know are as soft as they look.
Her black boots match her black leather backpack.
And I won’t lie, the combat boots are hot. But it’s the dress.
It’s her bright yellow dress that’s going to distract me all fucking day.
I don’t know what type of material it is. Probably something you could find in that craft store. It looks lightweight, almost lacy. It has cap sleeves and a deep V-neck that shows a delicious amount of cleavage. It’s snug over her chest, but the skirt flares out in a series of ruffling layers, creating a ballgown look, even though it ends at her knees. And there’s a bow on her side. Making me wonder what happens if I untie it.
I bet it all unravels.
I hope it all unravels.
And… I need to remember I’m here for a job. And that job does not include having sex with Tilda in my plane.
I take a step to the side and slide my hand back to her spine. “We need to get going.”
Tilda walks with me, staying quiet as we approach the restrooms.
“I’ll meet you back here,” I tell her just outside the doors.
She nods and walks into the small building ahead of me.
Two minutes later, Tilda walks out and stops before me. “Ethan?”
I dip my chin.
“Are you really flying this plane?”
I dip my chin again.
“But…” She looks up at me with imploring eyes. “But you’re a park ranger. I’ve seen you.”
This time the corner of my mouth definitely twitches. “I’m not denying that I’m a ranger. I’m just also a pilot.”
“How?”
“Classes. Hours of flying. The usual.” I reach out and gently grip her elbow.
“Are you good?” she whispers.
I slide my grip down her forearm. “I’m good.” I squeeze her wrist. “Come on and I’ll show you.”
Chapter 54
Tilda
I fidgetwith the seat belt crossed over my chest and stare out the windshield while I try to breathe.
My mini backpack is tucked away in the back seat. And I don’t know what’s scarier, just the two of us in this tiny plane, or if there weretwo morepeoplein this tiny plane.
I reach down to double-check that I still have my phone wedged under my thigh.
