Page 21 of Mountain Dreams

He hadn’t anticipated her reaction, and it took him a few seconds to reciprocate. He wrapped his arms around her and hugged her tightly. “I’m glad you’re here.”

“Me too.”

They stayed like that for some time, and he soaked her up. This hug felt different because she’d initiated it. Not only that, but she seemed happier now, and he was glad he had something to do with it.

He let go first because he didn’t want her to think he was taking advantage of the situation. “I’ll go bring in your stuff.”

“I’ll come with you.”

“I can handle it.”

They both stood. “I don’t doubt your physical strength, but I’ll point out what I need.”

“Okay.” They went to the front closet, and he pulled out her coat and helped her into it.

“What about your coat and shoes?” she asked, looking down at his bare feet.

“Nah. I’ll be fine.”

She laughed. “It’s cold out.”

“I’m tough. I can take it.”

“Okay, macho man. Lead the way.”

She followed him out to her car and pointed out the few things she needed.

“You travel light.”

“I left the big things at Wyatt’s. I’ll have to go back for them later.”

He nodded, though he hated the idea of her going anywhere near the guy. When it came time to move the rest of her stuff, Cody was going to help her whether she wanted him to or not.

They went back inside with her bags. “I’ll take these upstairs for you.”

She looked panicked. “Maybe I should just sleep on the couch.”

He raised a brow.

“You said it pulls out, right?”

“Yeah, but the beds upstairs are more comfortable.”

She hesitated for a moment and then slowly nodded. What was she afraid of? Did she think he’d try to seduce her tonight after she’d just gone through a breakup? He hoped she didn’t think him that big a cad.

He climbed the stairs with her bags, and she followed. He paused at the first bedroom and adopted the persona of a hotel clerk. “This room has a twin bed, which was mine from when I lived with my parents. You’ll probably be much more comfortable in the second room. Right this way.”

She peeked inside the room and then followed him to the next bedroom. “This room features a double bed, and it’s right across the hall from the bathroom. You can’t beat it.”

She looked inside it as well, but she shook her head. “The twin bed is fine.”

He was about to argue, but based on her expression, he decided not to. Whatever her reasons, he could tell she felt uncomfortable, and he didn’t want to make it worse. He turned and went back to the first room. He flicked on the light and set her bags on the floor by the dresser. Then he turned and faced her.

She stood in the center of the room with her arms locked across her chest, staring at his twin bed.

“Maddie?” he said softly.

“Sorry. This feels strange, that’s all.”