Chapter 12
Holly
Ihave built my life around science. Around my career.
It’s literally all I have. All I’ve ever wanted.
And then this stupid mountain man with callused hands and thighs that ripple in his jeans looked at me, setting a fire inside me.
Then this mountain-ranch hand kissed me, with lips so soft, and a tongue that pierced through my armor.
And then…this idiotic single dad got me off on his lap in front of the fire.
And that internal blaze has been begging to ride him for real since then.
Just when I thought maybe I could give this a go. Or at least, open myself up to more than just one weekend stuck together, I discover that he’s been lying to me? Or withholding information that seems pretty fucking important.
We stare at each other. Overhead, the comet is oblivious to us, my angst, to the passing of time.
Finally, Jack speaks. “Yes, my home. My name is Jack Noel. This is my cabin. My family owns most of Mt. Frost.”
“Seriously? And you just let me believe you were an employee? Why?”
“It felt good to be looked at because I’m Jack. Not because I own Mt. Frost. People, especially women, act a little different when they see dollar signs floating above my head.”
“Yeah, well, that would be weirdly eye-catching.” I huff out, seeing my frozen breath between us. “I guess that explains your familiarity with the cabin. And the boys feeling right at home.”
“Well, they’d feel right at home in a cardboard box. They don’t have many filters on propriety.” He chuckles a little. Another bout of silence. I move back to the telescope and adjust it again. Even though I’m still mad, the awe at viewing the Kringle Comet has that raw edge cooling a bit.
Still looking at the comet, I say, “Look. I’m not sure what to think or feel right now. All I know is that this comet is a once in a lifetime experience, and that I can’t feel my toes. I’m going to go inside to warm up a bit.”
“Do you want me to bring the telescope inside?” Jack asks.
“No, I’ll come back out. It needs to stay outside. If it warms up, the glass will get foggy.”
In silence, Jack follows me back to the cabin.
His cabin. An hour ago I was ready to jump him for more orgasms. Climb him with abandon.
Ride him like a cowgirl. With no clothes.
But now? Now I’m not so sure. Can I trust him?
And…does still wanting him, knowing he’s rich, make me a gold digger? I shiver, and not from the cold.