“I could do conservation work in a place like this. Create a haven for insects, such as butterflies and moths, and rare species of plants. I could read, enjoy the silence, have lots of sex.”
“Are you being serious?”
I shrug. “I dunno. Maybe? The appeal would probably wear off after a few months.”
“A few months?”
“I think winter would do me in. I’d need a fireplace. I guess if it were a tiny home—not a big place like this—it would be easier to keep warm.”
Jett stares at me. “You’re being serious. You’ve thought about this before.”
“No. First time. But I watch a lot of tiny home builds on the Internet.”
“You wouldn’t have the Internet if you lived off the grid.”
I laugh. “That’s the second time you’ve mentioned the Internet. I’m beginning to think you’re addicted to it. You’re surviving without it right now, aren’t you?”
“Barely.”
I press my hand to my heart. “Aw, I’m hurt. Aren’t I more interesting than the Internet?”
“I didn’t mean—” He shakes his head.
“It’s fine. I’m just kidding around. I know you have work to do.” Does he, really? “And not having your laptop must be stressing you out. As for my tiny home dream, I could get a satellite link.” I tap my foot against his. “Aren’t you enjoying being unhooked from the Internet even a little bit?”
“I’m enjoying spending time with you. If you weren’t here, I’d have gone insane by now.”
I snigger. “You’d have tried to walk to the road in children’s flip-flops.”
“Don’t laugh. I would.”
“Well, I’m glad the last twenty-four hours haven’t been too torturous.” I tap his shoulder. “Don’t worry. Rufus will be here soon, and I’m sure he’ll have your laptop with him.”
“He will if he knows what’s good for him.”
“Have a think about what you want to do with our last few hours of solitude.” I take his empty bowl and turn towards the door.
“Kian.”
“Yeah?”
“I meant what I said. You’ve been amazing about all this. You’ve gone above and beyond in helping me to relax. I’m glad you’re here.” His face flushes. “I mean, I wish Rufus hadn’t stranded either of us here.”
“I know what you meant. I’m having fun. As for going above and beyond, hardly. I’ve spent time with a gorgeous, sexy guy. This is like heaven for me.”
I go to the kitchen and wash up. Jett follows me a couple of seconds later. He watches me as I scrub the bowls.
“I want to hold you,” he says in a surprisingly growly voice.
“Are you waiting for an invitation?”
“No. Well, maybe.”
“Then I’ll give you an open invitation. To hold me. Kiss me. Get sexy with me. Whatever you want.”
“Do you mean that?”
“Yes, but I reserve my right to withdraw consent.”
