Page 56 of Saddles

Turning to the pump, I get the last of the water and pour it to my ungrateful horse, who’s lost in the gaze of the girl petting her.

“Ready?” I hold out my palm, a peace offering to April.

She slips hers against it, and lets me squeeze her fingers to tug her towards the house.

The wind isn’t as bad as it’s been, but it still bites through me.

I’m glad I loaded the wood pile up when it was calm.

“Oh, damn.” April stomps the snow from her shoes and slides them off. “I didn’t use the hot water last night.” She hangs up her coat, then stands over the tepid bath before looking up at me. “Do you think if I poured in more, it would be warm enough? Or start over?”

“Might want to let some out at least. I’ll get the pots boiling.” The kettle has almost evaporated.

I forgot I started that before I rushed out.

What an idiot, running from a kiss.

Maybe she’ll give me a chance to make it up to her.

She smashes her sleeve up her slender arm and reaches in to pull the plug. “Brr. Yea, that’s just gotta go.” Giving me a sheepish smile, she shakes her hand off, then wipes it on the nearby towel.

I hand her a cup of coffee and she curls her feet under her on the edge of the mattress. “So, when do you finish up here? Like,rejoin the rest of the world?” Her lips purse to blow softly over the steaming rim.

“As soon as the snow melts. March probably?” I dig out a couple of granola bars and toss one to her.

Her bottom lip sticks out as she peels the foil back, then pensively takes a bite. “Am I going to get to see you again?”

Hmm.

I swore I wouldn’t push her away today.

“If you want to? I’m sure by then you’ll have forgotten all about me.” I flash her a smile, then ball up my garbage.

Her nose wrinkles. “Funny guy. I’m serious.”

“You’re gonna have more than enough on your plate when you get out of here. I promise I’ll be the last thing on your mind. But maybe next summer, if you’re in this neck of the woods, we can meet at Val’s for a beer.” I give her a smile, but see the corners of her mouth drop.

“You can introduce me to your new guy. Someone who appreciates how fucking strong you are.” My voice drops as I struggle to choke out the words. “You deserve someone who appreciates how you fight for what you want. How you’d take on a fucking blizzard for a chance at success.” I swallow the last of my coffee. “There aren’t many women like you. Yea, I’d like to meet him, make sure he’s worthy.”

I might need another cup full to knock this damn lump out of my throat.

Her eyes widen and her brows knit. “Wow. It’s a good thing you’re cute.” She shakes her head and stands, setting her empty mug on the counter. “Can you help me with the hot water, please?”

“Of course.” I pick up the first pot, carefully carrying the steaming container away from my body.

After I dump it, I set it on the floor and grab the second.

But once that one is empty, and I turn back, it clatters when I drop it.

Breasts with tight nipples.

Curly blond pussy hair.

She’s fuckingnaked.

Quickly, I avert my eyes. “April? What the hell?” I’m trapped in the corner with nowhere to turn.

I catch her bare shoulders rise and fall.

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