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“We’re trying to get signatures to stop a shopping center from going up where Fletcher’s Pond is,” Erin chimes in.
Rachel scoffs. “Sounds like a waste of time to me. That land is going to be developed sooner or later. Might as well make some money off of it.”
“That’s not the point,” Erin retorts, her voice laced with anger. “Those wetlands are home to countless species of wildlife, not to mention the importance of preserving natural habitats for future generations.”
Rachel rolls her eyes. “Save the preaching, Greenpeace. I’ll sign your stupid petition if it means getting you out of my hair.”
Erin glares at her but accepts the signature, and I can feel the tension between the two women thickening like molasses.
As Rachel walks away, I can’t help but feel a renewed sense of gratitude towards Erin. She may not live in Fort Williams anymore, but she’s here for the good fight.
“Thanks for standing up to her,” I say as we continue walking.
Erin shrugs. “I couldn’t let her belittle what we’re doing like that.”
“I know, but… it means a lot.”
We fall into silence again, and I try to think of something else to say.
“So.” She clears her throat. “You two have history?”
I look at her in shock. “How could you tell?”
She bursts into laughter. “You looked like you wanted to crawl under a rock when she showed up.”
I laugh as well. “Yeah, that’s a good way to put it.”
“I know how that feels.” She shakes her head.
“Oh, yeah? Tell me?”
Her mouth drops open, and she looks like she regrets saying anything at all. “Oh, ah, just you know, exes and all.”
I look away, trying to sound nonchalant. “Are you with anyone now?”
There’s a noticeable pause. “No. My boyfriend and I broke up recently.”
My heart swells, an involuntary reaction. “That’s, uh, cool.”
“Cool?”
“Yeah. That you’re single.”
She glares. “I found my ex in bed with another woman. I wouldn’t exactly call it cool.”
I trip over my own tongue, trying to find a way to correct myself. But it’s too late. She’s already grabbed the clipboard from me and stalked ahead.
As she climbs the next porch, I shake my head. What is up with her? I wasn’t trying to offend her or anything.
I was trying to hit on her!
But apparently, she’s still just as uptight as she was in high school, and I probably just dodged a bullet.
But I still can’t help but feel disappointed. Erin is a lot to handle, but I want to be the one to rope her in. I want the challenge.
Even if it’ll be my downfall.
CHAPTER 13
