“I’m okay. I have a sweater. You have nothing.”
It’s quick, but his eyes fall upon my exposed shoulder. “Take it. The cold doesn’t bother me.”
I hesitate a millisecond before snatching it from his tattooed hands and zipping myself into the warmth. His scent lingers on the leather, and I swear it’s an adrenaline rush of endorphins. “Thank you.”
He nods before scanning the empty area around us, tucking his hands inside the pockets of his jeans.
He’s always watching—always looking for the next potential threat. I suppose it makes me feel safe but also, who is he always waiting for? I don’t think I’ve ever seen him relax.
The snow covers Hush’s dark hair like a white blanket, and I almost reach out to brush it off before completely dampening his thick locks, but I refrain.
I should confess about what I saw in his room, but I’m afraid. Afraid of ruining anything we have.
“You didn’t have to come out here with me, you know.”
“I know,” his husky voice skates over my skin.
“I can take care of myself.” I’m always trying to convince myself of that. We had this conversation before, but he doesn’t let on he’s having the same Déjà vu.
“I know.” This time he looks down at me, those harsh eyes soften as they reach mine. The wind picks up, tossing my hair all around, and a few loose short strands dance along his forehead. “Wanna head back inside?”
Honestly, the excitement has worn off and I’m ready to curl up in bed hoping to fall asleep.
“I’m going to tell everyone goodbye then head home. I have an early shift tomorrow anyways.”
He twists until he’s facing me. “I’ll drive you.”
“Uh. No way, I’m not turning into a popsicle on your Harley.”
He almost smirks. “I have Throttle’s truck.”
When I tilt my head back to look at the snow that falls faster, I decide to take him up on his offer. It’s way better than taking an Uber or a bus.
Once goodbyes are said and I hug Jules thanking her for the generous invite, I follow Hush to Throttle’s truck parked in the lot of The Fallen Star. He agrees to drop me off at my apartment and then bring the truck back to the bar. I hadn’t missed thecurious, yet stealthy glances being shot our way by my new friends and the guys from the club though.
Hush’s knuckles turn white as he grips the steering wheel, the wipers trying their best to keep up with the snow.
“It’s really coming down.” I lean forward, trying to get a better view of the street.
His arm comes crashing against me, pushing me back against my seat. “You need to sit back.” A panicked look arises on him. “And put your seatbelt on.” His face has gone fully pale, a glisten of nervous sweat hitting his brow.
I’m curious what that’s about. But I hurry clicking on my belt. “Sorry.” I look out my window, but it’s completely white.
“We’ll never make it to your apartment. My place is just off this road.” He lets out a stressed breath. “We’ll stay there until it clears.”
“Okay.” My voice is quiet at his suggestion, but I don’t hesitate in answering. I’ll be seeing where he lives. A glimpse of who he is.
When we pull down the long stretch of road and finally to his place, I try to hold my mouth closed.
A beautiful cabin, from what I can see, stands surrounded by trees.
Hush shuts off the truck, but closes his eyes, swallowing back something I swear is fear. I didn’t think this man feared anything. “Come on.”
With the snow and wind swirling around us, he leads me to the front of his two-story log cabin in the woods, and I try taking it all in before we enter.
Because of the total darkness, I seek out the wall for comfort. Once he turns on a couple of lanterns, his solace handsome face becomes visible, and I take a child’s step forward.
He sighs, peering at me. “The storm must have knocked out the power.”
