Sheila rolls her eyes, but surprises me and smiles up at Dirty Dan with the brightest of beams. “Most days I refuse to claim him.” She nudges his side, making him squirm. “But he’s the light in my darkest of skies.”
“I thought you were ‘single as a Pringle,’ Dirty Dan?” I ask.
“I sure do love ya,” Dan tells Sheila, smiling bright before directing his attention back to us. “We aren’t married. Never did make her official. So I suppose legally, I am as single as aPringle. But Sheila is my toots, and I’m her Daniel. That right there is all that matters to us.”
That’s oddly…sweet. And gives me hope that there really is a person for everyone in this world.
Even me.
“Well, damn.” Easton chooses now to speak up, and my actions are not my own as I grab the nearest tent rod and whack him across the back. “The fuck?” He cranks his neck, determination felt from where I’m seated on the ground. I shrug innocently, earning myself a sinister chuckle.
Fun Easton is here, and I hope he never leaves.
I’m having a grand ole time.
“Payback,” he mouths silently, and I can interpret his words perfectly. His caramel eyes take on a moodier shade of brown—gloomy and murky in color. The shift is thrilling.
“Can’t wait,” I mouth back, looking forward to whatever he claims this payback to be. Realizing Dirty Dan and Sheila are still here, I acknowledge their admission, despite getting momentarily distracted. “Well, I happen to think that’s beautiful. Speaking of, where’s the best place to hike around here? Easton and I could use a chance to get lost in the wilderness together.”
“My oh my,” Sheila mutters at the same time Dirty Dan belts, “Elephant Back.”
Easton chuckles beside me, sending her a weary look. “Are we scarring you, Ms. Sheila?”
Her hand meets her chest. “Darlin’, I’m not sure scarring is the correct word. More like…teaching this old dog new tricks. Tricks I’ll need to research the anatomy of before attempting myself.”
Dan doesn’t seem at all fazed by our need to be alone, continuing on with his suggestion. “You want the bestpanoramic view this forest has to offer? Elephant Back trail is ya girl.” He turns toward Sheila to piggyback off her statement. “And toots, when have I ever not performed for you?”
“Never, Daniel. Never have you ever left me high and dry.”
“Collie,” Easton calls out like a prayer, an alarm in his voice. “We good here?”
I clap my hands in excitement and face the tent Easton now has completely assembled.Asshole.“Looks like we’re hitting up Elephant Back, Ranger? Ready to get lost with me?” I wink, hoping he catches on to the double meaning.
Easton smirks, and my heart flutters knowing I caused it. “Thought you’d never ask,darling.” He emphasizes the darling more than necessary, making me giggle. “I just need to hear you admit how much of a badass tent connoisseur I am.” He cups his ear, signaling me to voice it but I’m a terrible sport.
I tilt my head and flutter my lashes, letting him believe I’m going to praise his efforts. “I’d love nothing more than to admit how incredibly…horribleyour tent-making skills are. You should definitely stick to building powerlines.” I stand and pat his shoulder before bidding Sheila and Dirty Dan farewell. “Later, lovebirds. Oh, and husband?”
Easton shakes his head before lifting it to meet my flirtatious tone. “Yes, beautiful?”
Oh, he’s good.
“Don’t keep me waiting. I’ve got plans for you, and more than just getting our steps in,” I whisper loud enough so only he can hear. “It’s my turn to take care of my man.”
It’s fun to pretend Easton’s my husband. Just like I know this hike we’re about to intentionally get lost on will be everything I’ve been craving and more.
Butterflies erupt in my stomach at the sound of our tent quickly collapsing, and Easton shuffling to dismantle and pack it away. “See ya, Sheila. Dirty Dan. Don’t wait up,” he hollers, feet anxious to catch up behind me.
Yes. Please, don’t wait up.
19
COLLIE
I’maware of Easton’s every move.
I can’t help it.
He anticipates mine while I enjoy seeing how the unexpected affects him. I made a promise that I would take his care into my hands during our hike.
