Page 228 of Mountain Grump
Then a quack sounds through the stillness, and we both watch through the windows as Quackers flies down from the roof.
“Good thing you’re not allergic to ducks.”
“It is a good thing.” I sniff but can’t stop my smile. “I don’t think Quackers liked her much.”
Ethan hums, then kisses my temple again. “Come on, Starlight.” He stands, then steps over so he’s straddling my extended legs. “Let’s go wash your hands, then have some lunch.”
He reaches down, hooks his hands under my arms, and lifts me to my feet.
I look up into his eyes, soaking in the colors. “I like how strong you are.”
Ethan smirks as he slides his hands down my sides. “I like that you like it.”
I start to reach for him but stop with my hands in the air between us when I remember what he said about washing my hands.
I wrinkle my nose. “She was a little stinky.”
Ethan lifts his brows. “Wild animals.”
I sigh as I drop my hands back to my sides. “Guess I should probably wash my dress too.”
“Not a bad idea.” He flexes his fingers against my hips, then steps back. “You do that, I’ll start lunch.”
Gratitude fills my stomach. “Thank you for coming. I’m sorry if I scared you.”
Ethan steps forward, closer than he had been. “You never have to thank me, Starlight.” He leans in, slowly, and presses his lips to mine. “Now hurry up. If we eat fast, I might still have enough time on my lunch break to eatyoufor dessert.”
I inhale, then sprint to my bedroom for a new dress.
Chapter 123
Ethan
I groanas I bend down to pick up a stick. And groan again when I toss it off the trail.
After work last night, after I stayed late to make up for my long lunch break, I took Tilda with me to the gym.
She walked, looking cute as fuck and distracting as hell, in another pair of painted-on shorts. And I lifted weights.
A normal amount.
To start with.
But then she came over and sat on the bench next to mine, telling me she wantedto watch.
And since I’m not one to disappoint my wife, I kept going. With heavier weights. And more reps. And goddamn, I am feeling it today.
I roll out my shoulders and swing my arms back and forth.
If I get my blood pumping, then maybe my aching muscles will shut the fuck up.
I glance at the woods to my right, then down at my watch.
Not even ten thirty. Too early for lunch.
This part of the park is less traveled. The trails are less manicured. Mostly used by staff, like me, to check on theproperty lines and to make sure no one is camping where they shouldn’t.
I glance off to the right again.
