Page 5 of Falling for my Mountain Man

“It’s about a twenty-minute drive from here a little way up the mountain. Let me get the GPS going.”

“No need for that. Just tell me the street name.”

“Maplewood.”

“Easy.” I grinned as I opened the passenger door for her.

She slid in and smiled at me. “Such a gentleman.”

“Shh, I don’t want that getting out. I’ve got a reputation to maintain.” I shut the door and hurried over to the other side. I loved how her car smelled like her, sweet lavender mixed with a hint of vanilla. I wanted to rub it all over myself, to never stop smelling it.

“So I’ve heard.” Rogue grinned.

“Eh, most people judge before they know someone’s story.” I explained as I backed out of the spot. “Most people aren’t grumpy for no reason. Sure, there are a few born with a grump personality, but a lot of times, life has a hand in it.”

“Yeah, that makes sense. Especially when dealing with certain people.”

“Facts. Sometimes life fucks you and sometimes the people in it do.”

“Yep. I know that’s true. So, did you grow up here?”

“Yeah, just me and my dad. Mom took off when I was small.”

“I’m sorry to hear that. My parents are divorced now, and I don’t really talk to them much anymore. My dad told me to get a real job the last time we spoke. Kind of turned me off.”

“What? Really? Does he know how well you’re doing?”

Rogue shrugged. “It doesn’t matter. Knitting cat hats isn’t a job to him. My mom was nicer about it but she’s in her flavor of the week mode, so she’s preoccupied, to say the least.”

“I’m sorry, Rogue. You deserve all the love and attention. And so does your business. I think what you’re doing is pretty damn cool. And anyone who says differently can blow smoke. I’d say fuck off, but it is your parents, after all.”

“You’re too sweet to me, Hutch. But thank you, that means a lot.”

“It’s true. You’re a badass business owner.”

Rogue reached over and squeezed my hand. I nearly drove off the side of the road as tingles ran up my arm. I squeezed her fingers back, intertwining them with mine. My shoulders fell and my grip on the wheel loosened.

“Shit! How are you going to get your car?” Rogue asked, her face full of concern as she sat up straighter.

I chuckled. “Relax, don’t worry. I’ll grab an Uber back.”

“That’s crazy. I should’ve followed you here instead. Once you show me the way to the cabin, head back to your car. I’ll find my way back.”

“No, it’ll be even darker by then. I don’t want to risk you getting lost or your GPS losing signal. If I can’t get an Uber, I’ll call a buddy of mine. I know a few that owe me some favors.”

Rogue let out a sigh before chewing on her bottom lip. “How will I ever pay you back?” She studied me.

I picked up her hand and brought it to my lips while keeping my eyes on the road. “You don’t have to. Just sit there and look pretty.” I winked at her and pulled onto her street.

After helping her into the cabin and making sure the lights worked, I didn’t want to leave.

“How long are you in town for?” I asked her as I waited for my Uber. Luckily, I scored one.

We sat on her porch in wooden rocking chairs, the air chilly, as the sun finished setting on the horizon.

“I leave early Monday morning. Figured I’d do a little sightseeing tomorrow. But with the way these roads are, I might just have a relaxing day in the cabin.” Rogue explained. She grabbed the blanket hanging on the back of her chair and placed it over her lap.

“I could be a tour guide if you’d like. Show you a few places before you head out.” I blurted the idea before I gave myself the chance to think it over.