Page 101 of Small Town, Big Storm

It’s just…the part of me that was worried he’d get bored and move on knows that isn’t fair.

What drove Storm out of Cedar Hollow…

It wasn’t boredom, wasn’t because he didn’t want me.

He was escaping a nightmare.He was trying to survive.

And it wasn’t joy and pleasant memories that brought him back to me.

It was another chapter of his painful past.

So…it’s time for the town to work its magic.

“We’ll tell her tonight,” I say.“I’m only working half of the closing shift because Cassie picked up a few extra hours.So, we can go to the park, make dinner”—I lean forward to mock-glare at him—“and that’snotan invitation to shit on the meal for tonight, mister.”

“Well, now I’m curious, Poppyseed.What delectable goodness are you cooking up?”He turns his head and I get an up close and personal view of his gorgeous gray eyes and sly smile.

I find out about thatslywhen he adds,

“Though, I know it’s not pasta.”

Another narrow-eyed glare.

Then I decide to take thatslyin hand.

I lean forward, close the distance between our mouths.

AndIkisshim.

Exactly how I planned to before Gertie interrupted us.

He groans, drops the cooler and blanket, and his arms band around my middle, drawing me in front of him, dragging me flush against his body.I gasp, and he takes advantage, kissing me deeper, holding me tighter.

Hot and wet.

Sleek and strong.

Mine.

For how long?

I shove the thought away—know that it’s unfair, know it’s not his fault.

But it’s too late.He senses the change in me, the sudden tightness in my body, and he pulls back.

Those scorching gray eyes search mine.

But he just cups my jaw for a moment, brushes his lips over my forehead.“We should go pick up Holly.”

I nod, take his hand, and let him guide me along the path.

And, I have to admit, I miss the ride.

But I keep that thought to myself.

The last thing I need is for the man to get ideas.

Or to take my offhanded comment as a challenge and carry me through all of Cedar Hollow.