19. Chapter 19 Jake
Chapter 19: Jake
I 'm trapped.
Dr. Chloe Roberts has me cornered with questions about wilderness first aid protocols. All I can focus on is how her eyes light up when she talks medicine, how her hands move animatedly.
"Are you even listening?" She crosses her arms.
No. Too busy noticing how that sweater hugs your curves.
"Just thinking about the logistics," I lie.
She doesn't buy it. "You've been avoiding me."
"Been busy."
"For six weeks?"
Marcus and Daisy aren't even trying to hide their amusement from across the room. Traitors.
"Look," Chloe steps closer, "I need to understand your rescue procedures if I'm going to be effective here. That means we have to work together."
She smells like cinnamon and antiseptic. It's disturbingly appealing.
"Fine." I grab a napkin, scrawling my number. "Call when you want to review protocols."
Her smile is dangerous. "Oh, I will."
I escape before I do something stupid like notice how her lips curve up at the corners.
Cole appears at my elbow. "Smooth."
"Shut up."
"Just saying." He grins. "She’s been climbing a bit lately. Alone.”
My heart stops.
"She shouldn't climb alone."
"Probably needs a guide." Cole's voice is too innocent. "Someone who knows the mountain."
Damn it.