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“It’s just a precaution to make sure everything is in order and working,” Artie explains. “We want to ensure everything is in good condition and address any issues right away. The last big snowstorm took out part of our roof.”
“That was mostly racoons,” Ollie says.
I raise an amused brow. “Wow, I would love to hear that story.”
“It’s not half as interesting as it sounds,” Artie adds with a chuckle. “We have a very domestic life here.”
“Except the bears,” Ollie says. “Don’t forget the bears.”
My eyes widen. “Wait, are you for real? There are actual bears?”
“Nah, we’re just messing with you. They’re further north, and they rarely stray down here,” Ollie says.
“Yeah, it’s the mountain lions you should worry about. Tricky creatures, they are, and they can camouflage themselves pretty well in the mountain rocks.”
“You two,” Ed warns. “Knock it off.”
I glare at the two of them and push them aside to walk past. Ollie doesn’t miss the opportunity to cop a feel of my breasts as I pass him.
“We also need to get Susan’s car fixed,” Ed continues. He looks at me briefly. “But I guess that can wait till the roads are cleared.”
As we start to gather our clothes and get dressed, the reality of the situation sinks in. The snowstorm, which held us captive in this cozy cabin, is finally coming to an end. While a part of me is relieved that the storm is over and we can soon return to the outside world, another part of me feels a tinge of disappointment deep within.
“We need to check the roof, windows, and the structural integrity of the cabin. It’s better to be proactive and address any issues before they get worse.”
Artie nods, his eyes scanning the room as if mentally noting the areas that require attention. “We should also check the surroundings, like the trees and any potential hazards caused by the snow accumulation.”
“I want to come with you,” I say, my words surprising even myself.
Ed and Ollie exchange a glance, their expressions a mix of shock.
Ed is the first to speak. “Susan, we appreciate your willingness to help, but it might be safer if you stay here in the warmth and comfort of the cabin. We’ll handle the assessment and make sure everything is secure.”
I take a deep breath before answering. “I understand your concern, Ed, but I really want to do this. Pretty please?”
“It might be dangerous,” Ollie points out.
I put my hands on my hips. “Do you mean the mountain lions?”
“Hey, they are an actual threat, okay?” Ollie says. “They’re almost perfect predators, so you won’t even know one is stalking you until they want to make their presence known.”
I turn to Ed. “I think I’m more than capable.”
Artie, who’s been observing the conversation, interjects, his voice filled with support. “I think Susan has a point. It would be good to have more hands and perspectives on deck. And just in case, I’ll tag along as well.”
“Artie wants me to go,” I say. “I really want to go.”
Ed and Ollie exchange another glance. “Do I get a say in this?” Artie says. “If so, I vote she gets to come along. Susan is one of us now. She’s braved a whole freaking snowstorm, and it’s her first.”
“I agree. She’s one of us now,” Ollie says. Warmth spreads in my stomach. I’ve never really felt like I belong anywhere. Even in my writing circle, I never felt like I really fit in. I didn’t have a critique partner for the first few books I released, although once I was decently popular, people volunteered to beta-read my books. Writing is a solitary profession, and sure, I’m part of a few organizations and unions, but I don’t exactly have any friends. The three brothers have been lone wolves by their own choice, while I’ve always been more like an odd piece of a puzzle that didn’t really fit in.
Until now. Now, I fit like a glove with these three. I’ve finally found my people.
I go upstairs to change into more appropriate clothes. Excitement courses through me as I slip into my warm winter clothes, preparing to venture out into the snowy landscape. I pull on my cozy, insulated jacket, zipping it up snugly, while my gloves and hat provide an extra layer of protection against the biting cold. It’s a good thing I packed all this stuff because I wasn’t sure what the weather would be like up high in the mountains. My mom always told me I should never take my chances with the cold.
Together, all four of us step outside, our breaths forming small clouds in the crisp air. Cold air hits my face, making my teeth chatter, and snow crunches under my boots as I start walking.
It’s a little difficult to trudge through the snow at first, especially since it’s melting.
