My heart feels lighter as his words settle in. “We'll figure it out together. One day at a time.”
The doubt I’ve been carrying for days fades, replaced by the steady comfort of knowing we're on the same page.
As Matt turns to head back to his cabin, I call out softly, “You can come back in, you know. We could ... snuggle, or something.”
He pauses, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth as he walks back toward me, stopping inches away. “As much as I'd love that, it’s not a good idea,” he says, his voice teasing but gentle.
I roll my eyes but can't help smiling. “You're no fun.”
He chuckles, brushing a soft kiss on my forehead. “I'm serious, Eliza. You've got a lot riding on this exam. But tomorrow? We'll make time.”
The heat of his kiss lingers as he steps back, and I know he's right. “Okay. Tomorrow.”
“Tomorrow,” he echoes, his eyes lingering on mine for a moment before he turns and heads off into the fading light.
When I step back into the cabin, it feels quieter but not as empty as before. Anticipation lingers in the air, and though I’m on my own for now, I know I’m not truly alone in this. I grab my books and settle onto the couch, Matt’s words still echoing in my mind. He believes in me—and that belief pushes me forward.
Tomorrow will come soon enough. For now, it's time to focus on today's challenges.
I fall asleep that night with the memory of our kiss a warm promise of what's to come, and a newfound resolve to shape my destiny.
The next morning, I'm surrounded by my brothers in the main lodge, discussing the day's plans, but I keep noticingMatt's absence. I glance toward the window, wondering where he is. Kane catches my look and nudges me. “He'll be here soon,” he says.
I try to focus, but my thoughts keep drifting to Matt.
“While we’re waiting, we should talk,” Reid says.
I fist my hands on my hips. “If this is about Matt, who I date, kiss, or sleep with is my business. And if you keep meddling, I'll include spoiled clams in the next batch of chowder I make.”
They all stare at me, dumbfounded. Kane speaks up, shaking his head. “This has nothing to do with Matt. We're talking about your exam prep.”
As my brothers are explaining everything, the door creaks open, and Matt steps in, brushing snow off his jacket.
“Sorry I'm late,” Matt says. “I grabbed those supplies you asked for.” He glances over at me, his arrival instantly making the room feel warmer.
Reid continues, not missing a beat. “Matt spoke up earlier, reminded us how much this project means to you.”
I blink, caught off guard. I haven’t been thinking about my test much, not with everything happening here. The lodge, the avalanche, Matt—it’s all consumed my thoughts. But hearing Reid mention it brings the pressure rushing back.
Rhys agrees, adding, “Yeah, we almost decided you should focus on studying, but Matt helped us see we can't sideline you.”
Matt meets my eyes, making it clear he's been looking out for me.
“So, here's what we're thinking,” Kane continues. “Four hours of study each day, then you join us for repairs. That way, you're prepping for your exam and still contributing here.”
I'm momentarily speechless. Matt stood up for me? A warm feeling spreads through me. Even when I'm not around, he gets me, supports me. I glance at my brothers, seeing the genuine concern in their eyes. They're not trying to control me—they'relooking out for me, and Matt helped them understand what I need.
I take a steady breath, weighing their proposal.
It's a fair compromise, offering me the best of both worlds. They want to make sure I can still pitch in where I’m needed while giving me the time to focus on my studies.
“I appreciate your consideration,” I say thoughtfully, “and I understand where you're coming from. You're right. This is a balanced solution. Thank you for finding a way I can manage both.”
Relief washes over them. “We want what's best for you,” Kane says.
As I look at my brothers' faces, gratitude overwhelms me. They're giving me a chance to chase my dreams without having to step completely away from helping here.
“Thank you,” I say. “I won't let you down, I promise.”
