Page 64 of Mountain Grump

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Tilda

The lightson the washer and dryer are on.

Ethan fixed it.

By checking the breaker box.

It’s so simple.

And I feel so stupid.

Heat flares in my eyes, and I blink.

I hate feeling stupid.

Ethan’s steps are quiet as he enters my bedroom, but I can feel him as he stops beside me.

“Thank you,” I whisper, but I can’t meet his eyes.

“You’re welcome.” Ethan shifts so he’s in front of me, blocking my view of the appliances.

I still don’t look up.

I don’t want to see pity on his face.

Don’t want him to look at me like I’m an idiot.

I just…

I bite my lip harder.

This is my new start.

A place where no one can criticize me. A place to make my own. And I’ve already messed up so many times.

Warm fingers grip my chin, and Ethan tips my head up.

I blink again, willing my eyes to stay dry, as I finally meet his gaze.

Ethan’s brows are furrowed. “What’s this look for?”

His concern feels real.

His genuine intentions… real.

He feels so real to me.

And every time he sees me…

My hands lift and drop to my sides as defeat takes over.

Ethan leans down, putting our faces inches apart, as he continues to grip my chin. “Firecracker, what’s this look for? You didn’t do anything wrong.”

“I should’ve known how…” I swallow, my voice going quiet. “I’m not st?—”

Ethan pushes my chin up, cutting off my word. “Woman, I know you’re not stupid. I’ve never once thought that. Not ever.”

He seems so… mad.On my behalf?

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