Lincoln nodded."Give us a call when everything's in.We can chip in to help you."
"I'm tiling next."That was a solitary project that I enjoyed doing.It gave me time to think.I was so used to being around other people, in the military and even in my family.Working on something like tiling was soothing and quiet.
I moved home for family, and they'd be here for me no matter what.
Chapter11
Natasha
Penny and Aspen had occupied most of my time, which made it seem like I wasn't here with Ford.But he'd been weird all night.
He'd finally disappeared into the kitchen to clean up.Earlier in the week, I'd thrown out that offer to see the view from my balcony, and he hadn't responded.Maybe I'd stepped over a line.I could see how it could be perceived as flirtatious, especially since I was in the hot tub.But we were old friends at the very least.I hoped he could still hang out without making it awkward, but I guess I was wrong.
When the dishes were done, everyone congregated in the living room; a football game playing in the background.This felt more like family time, so I stood and said I was going to head out.
"Ford, why don't you walk her out?"Maria asked.
I reached for my jacket that I'd left on a hook by the door, but Ford got to it first, holding it up for me.I shrugged it on and turned to face him."You don't have to walk me out."
He tipped his head toward the living room where we could hear one of his brothers telling a boisterous story from when they were kids."Mom insisted."
I shook my head and sighed."Let's go then."
He opened the door, and I preceded him through the walkway.Snow was falling.I hadn't had a chance to check the forecast, so I wasn't sure if it was a storm or just a clipper coming through.
Ford shoved his hands in his pockets when we reached the door of my SUV, the one I'd bought after the inheritance."You'd better go before the roads get bad."
"Thanks for inviting me."
"It was my mom."But he couldn't quite meet my eyes.
"Are you uncomfortable around me?"
His face tightened."Why would you say that?"
"You seemed weird when we were seated next to each other, and you never responded to my text.”
He winced as if the idea were painful."Of course not."
My shoulders lowered."I was hoping that we could be friends, especially since we work together."
He nodded and let out a breath."We can be friends."
I clicked the lock on my door, and he opened it."It's amazing to enjoy the hot tub with the snow falling around you.But bring your suit if you come."
Now his expression was relaxed."Yeah, okay."
I grinned as he closed the door, and I backed out.He stood there, waiting for me to leave.I waved before I continued on my way.I was glad that I'd talked to him about the awkwardness I sensed.
Friends hung out in hot tubs on balconies while the snow fell.Especially friends who'd been lovers when they were younger.We were more mature now.
I was confident I could handle being around my ex.But then I remembered how I'd reacted to seeing him in his work clothes for the first time, lifting that vanity.If he wore a swimsuit, it wouldn't cover much.I'd be able to see those impressive forearms, his chest, and abs.
I bit my lip against the picture that popped into my head.I was in so much trouble.I told myself that after spending the evening in Ford's childhood home, I was feeling nostalgic for him, his friendship, and the easy way we had around each other.
We enjoyed spending time together when we were teens.It was sweet.Now my thoughts about him were anything but sweet.
There was still a chance he'd change his mind.Inside, I hurried to tidy my apartment, then put on a bikini, debating between red or black.Both were sexy.But it was a Christmas inn, so I went with the red.
