Grabbing my heavy coat, I thread it over my arms before stepping into the deluge.
“I think I got a flat,” she yells over the passing traffic, tugging a thin jacket around her.
My fingers flex wanting to grab her. But I ball them into my pockets.
Just because I feel what’s going on between us, doesn’t mean she does. “Go get in the truck, I’ll take care of it.”
“I know how to change a tire.” Her eyes flash under her drenched hair plastering over her head.
“And I’m proud of you for it, but get in the damn cab,” I growl. “Don’t need you catching pneumonia to prove a point.”
Swinging open the toolbox fastened under the flat bed of my dually, I pull out the star wrench I always carry.
With a ratchet strap to hold up the axle and my small floor jack, I head back towards the rear end of her trailer.
“Sophia? Why are you still out here?” My tone gentles seeing her quivering bottom lip.
She looks like a drowned rat, practically soaked through.
“I need to check on Misty to make sure she’s okay. Can I go inside?” A shiver shakes her from head to toe.
“Yea.” I drop all my shit on the ground, then shed my own coat. “Here, put this on at least?” I don’t wait, but settle it over her wet arms.
Jesus, it’s cold.
“No, Oliver, I can’t—”
“Are you checking on your mare?” I start wrenching on the first lug nut.
There’ll be time to argue with her later. Apparently she’s gonna be out in this crap until I’m done, so I better hurry.
The smaller man-door on the side creaks when she tugs it open, then she disappears.
“Oh shit,” she gasps loudly enough I can hear her.
Sophia’s head pops out. “She cut her leg. It doesn’t look awful, but—” Her eyes well. “—could you, um—”
When I nod, a clump of icy slush falls off my hat brim.
She has no idea I’d do anything for her.
I see the injury as soon as I climb in. Working my palm down her rear leg, I tug near the hoof to get her to raise her foot.
Even with her wide eyes and ears back, Misty obediently lifts, letting me inspect the wound.
“I think she’ll be okay. I can tape it up until the vet can check it.” Glancing over my shoulder, Sophia’s gaze is fixated on my side.
“You’re steaming, Oliver.” Her lips twist to the side.
“It’s because I’m so hot,” I say sarcastically, then straighten.
I’m fucking freezing.
But the weak smile she gives me makes it worth it.
My thin t-shirt is glued to my skin offering absolutely nothing for protection.
Her chin drops, then snaps close like she’s going to say something.
