I nodded, finding solace in the fact that whatever lay ahead, I wouldn’t be facing it alone.
Chapter 11
After grabbing what I needed—with Hudson insisting I pack far more than necessary for one night—we left town limits, headed to his house.
I stared out the window on the drive there, unable to form a coherent thought with the chaos roaring between my ears.
Had Josh really broken into my house?For what?I couldn’t picture him doing such a thing, but did I really know what he was capable of?
I watched distractedly as we turned onto the road I’d taken earlier in the day, passing the turnoff to the lake and ascending further up the mountain road.Despite the darkness, I could tell the scenery was beautiful.
When we turned onto an unmarked dirt road, I understood what Hudson had been talking about.It had been nearly impossible to spot.I’d never have found it on my own.
We were soon driving through a green metal gate that closed behind us as we continued up the road.When the house came into view, I leaned forward, taking in the sprawling mountain home lit up against the night sky, showcasing a wraparound front porch and A-frame windows that must let in gorgeous light during the day.
“It’s beautiful,” I murmured as he pulled up to the side of the house and cut the engine.
“Thanks.”He smiled over at me.“I’ll give you the full tour when you’re up for it.For tonight, how about I make us something to eat, and we can find something stupid to watch to get your mind off things.”
“That sounds perfect,” I said as Ranger leapt out of the truck and ran toward a side door.
“I use this entrance more than the front door,” Hudson explained as he opened the door and gestured for me to precede him into what appeared to be a mudroom.I hung up my jacket on one of the racks and toed off my shoes before continuing into the most beautiful kitchen I’d ever seen.With vaulted ceilings and large A-frame windows that no doubt showcased a spectacular view, the space was striking.I ran my hand over the smooth granite of the largest kitchen island I’d ever seen, admiring the white stone, emerald green cabinets, and brass hardware.
I eyed the state-of-the-art appliances.“I thought you didn’t cook?”
He chuckled.“Not really, but I manage the basics.”
I nodded, my eyes on the sleek range that probably cost more than my car.
“What’s on your mind?”Hudson stepped into my space and tipped my chin up to meet his gaze.
“I was just thinking how this kitchen makes me want to enjoy cooking again.I’m decent at it, but it wasn’t as fun when it was expected of me.”
He leaned in for a chaste kiss before pressing his forehead to mine.“Well, you’re welcome to go wild in here, but only if the mood strikes.I’m fully capable of wielding a spatula.And speaking of”—he pulled away and headed for the fridge—“let me see what I’ve got in here.”
I watched him dig through the fridge, the seemingly small but meaningful effort warming me despite how my evening had ended.
“Breakfast for dinner?”he asked, holding up a carton of eggs.
“Sounds perfect, and I can help.”
He shook his head.“You just sit at the island there looking gorgeous, and I’ll have everything I need.”He winked.
I blushed as he slid a beer my way and got to work at the stove.I sat on the comfortable barstool, swiveling to get a look at the great room located immediately off the kitchen, noting that it had even higher ceilings.With a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, large windows, and leather furniture that looked lived in, it was cozy despite its size.
“You must have beautiful views.”I swiveled back to watch him, finding him impossibly more attractive with a dishrag thrown over his shoulder and ball cap backward as he made dinner at the stove.
“It was the main reason I picked this property—that and the privacy,” he amended.“It has views out of every window and the land to do what I want with over time.”
“And your dad and brother built it?”The house could easily be featured inArchitecturalDigest.
He nodded proudly.“It was a family effort, along with the crew.Griff even helped.The outdoor bar, which you’ll see tomorrow, was his contribution.”
“Can’t wait.”It took effort to keep the tension from my voice as I thought about what else tomorrow would bring.The violation of someone breaking into my home hadn’t fully sunk in yet, and I knew that when it did, it would be a lot to contend with.
“Could you point me to the restroom?”I asked, suddenly needing a minute to collect myself.
“Closest one is down the hall, second door to your left.”He gestured with the spatula.
