Page 57 of The Inn Dilemma

Before he has a moment to say more, I add, “I didn’t think you did or would have. I’m just saying–”

“What about now? How does adult Nova feel about me?”

My heart races and my palms sweat despite the chill in the air and the whipping wind.

I hesitate a beat before answering, “She’s not sure how she should feel about you.” Somehow, talking about myself in third person makes this less uncomfortable.

“I didn’t ask how doesshe thinkshe should feel about me. I asked howdoesshe feel about me?”

Like she’s falling harder and faster than she should be, especially considering the short time we’ve been reconnecting.I don’t say that though. Instead, I swallow down the lump in my throat. “You’re special to me. You always have been and always will be.”

Holt says nothing for long minutes until we approach a sign that says Brokedown Tavern and he pulls into a parking spot.

“We’re here,” he says. “You can get off first.”

I shift my weight to my left and place my foot on the ground before swinging my leg around the back. I’ve barely touched my toe down to the pavement before Holt’s hand grips my arm and holds me steady.

Holt gets off on the same side of the bike, switches off his intercom system, and removes his helmet. He helps me do the same. As the helmet comes off, so does my bravery.

He sets both helmets on the handlebars, then rests his weight on his bike, gripping me gently around the waist and tugging me toward him.

“You still haven’t answered my question, Nova. Howdo you feel about me now?” His voice is gruff, and my heart hammers at the way his good eye drops to my lips.

I suck in a sharp breath, trying and failing to calm my rushing pulse.

“Holt!” someone behind me shouts. “I didn’t think you were coming out tonight. But I’m glad you did.”

Holt squeezes me gently before releasing me, and I turn to face a Viking-looking man and a dark-haired beauty wearing a snarky T-shirt. Holt introduces them as Thor and Clover.

“Now that she knows who we are, it’s only fair for us to know who she is.” Thor states.

Holt scratches the back of his neck. “This is Nova.”

Thor beams at us like a cat who just caught a mouse. “Nova, as in Christian’s sister?”

“The one and only,” I answer.

Thor wiggles his eyebrows. “Does Christian know this is happening?” He motions between Holt and me with his free hand.

Clover gently swats his chest. “Leave them alone.”

I take a step back, and my ribs ache like they still do throughout the day.

“Argh!” Holt mumbles before his arm slips around me and becomes my human crutch. “I never should have forced you here. I’m so sorry,” he whispers into my ear.

“I’m fine.” I look up at him, and he stares down at me. “I just stepped forward funny.”

“Are you okay?” Clover asks, sounding concerned.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” I slowly put my foot down flat.

“She fell down a ravine two days ago. I probably should have just let her rest.” Holt shakes his head. “Let’s get you in there and sitting.”

“You fell down a ravine?!” Clover asks.

“Yes, but I’m totally fine.”

Thor chuckles. “Definitely perfect for Graves.”

---