“Lifties?”
“That’s just short for the people that operate the chair lifts," she said.
I tilted my head. “Is that a hard job?”
Giles's lips turned up in a smug grin. “It’s pretty much rocket science, Florida. Takes almost two hours of training to learn the ropes.”
I glared at him while Erin elbowed him in the ribs again.
“Don’t be rude to my new friend,” she hissed.
“Thanks for trying, Erin, but I think my presence alone must offend him.”
He balked. “That’s not true.”
Rolling my eyes, I stood up. Not even bothering to respond.
“I don’t know what this weird energy is between the two of you, but maybe you can resolve it at the bonfire.”
“She’s coming?” Giles asked as if I wasn’t standing right there. “I thought it was just going to be the usual crowd.”
I shot him a look. “Sorry, I didn’t realize Erin had to run the guest list by you first. Is it okay if I come, Mr. Stone? Pretty please?”
His attitude was getting on my last nerve. Was it that hard to just be nice to me? When I had envisioned starting my life over in a small mountain town, I had pictured the locals being a lot more welcoming.
“Mattie, I’m sorry for my cousin-in-law’s rudeness. I’m excited you’ll be there.”
Giles held up his hands as we both stared daggers at him.
“I didn’t mean it like that. Of course, Mattie can come if she wants.”
“Thanks for making me feel so welcome.” I tried to keep the hurt feelings out of my voice, but I knew they had slipped through. Crap. I hated not being liked.
“Excuse me, I need to check on something,” I lied.
His eyebrows rose, and his mouth hung open. I pushed past him before he could say anything.
Erin rushed behind me to catch up and grabbed my arm.
“Hey, seriously. Please come. It’ll be fun.”
“I’ll think about it.” I forced a smile. “Things are picking up at the lodge, so I’m not sure if I can take the night off.”
“Answer me one question.”
I looked at her warily.
“Have you done anything besides work since arriving?”
“Well, no, but—”
“No buts. You have to come. Besides, fitting in with the locals is super important here. I’m sure it will factor into whether or not they want to sign a contract with your company.”
She winked at me, knowing my weak spot.
“Well, alright. I guess I can make an appearance.”
“Great.” She beamed. “And don’t let the asshat in there get to you. He may seem tough, but it’s all a front.”
