Page 18 of The Bear's Perfect Mate
But before he gave a snappy retort, Nero stilled.
He could senseher.
Sophie. She was heading this way, heading along the road from Bear Bluff to Bear Creek.
Panic fluttered in his chest. What should he do? Just stand there?
Trust in fate,his bear said.If we’re going to meet again by chance, there has to be a reason for it.
You mean like embarrassing myself again?Nero asked.
Get back in the car,his bear instructed.
Why?Nero said, but he was already sliding back into the driver’s seat.
Now, get out. Pretend you’re just arriving,his bear suggested.
Nero followed the advice, trying to look casual as Sophie’s car came into view. She slowed. Did a double-take and pulled over.
He smiled, or tried to. It probably looked more like a grimace.
“Nero?” she called, rolling down her window. “I thought that was you.”
“Sophie,” he managed. His voice was steadier than he expected. “Good morning.”
She studied him, taking in the creased shirt and weary eyes. “You look like you’ve been up all night.”
“I have,” he admitted, running a hand through his hair. “Working on a project.”
“Must be important,” she said, her tone softening.
“I was just heading in for breakfast,” he said. “You?”
“Oh…I was going to grab something to eat and then look for a place to stay…” Her voice trailed off as she folded her arms across her body.
“A place to stay?” Nero could hardly believe it. “I thought you were leaving today.”
Why would you remind her?his bear grumbled.
“I was,” Sophie said as she got out of her car. “But I think I might stick around for a couple of days. I’ve got recipes to work on, and the mountains are…inspiring.”
Her hair was loose around her shoulders, and the soft summer dress she wore made something in Nero’s chest ache.
“That’s great news,” he said.
It’s amazing news,his bear added, barely able to contain his excitement.
“Yes.” She looked up at him from under her lashes.
“Come on, let’s grab breakfast. Then we can check out a few places.”
“Oh, I don’t…” she began.
“I meant—just online. We can sit in the park, look through some listings,” Nero said. Damn, had he screwed up again?
“Oh. Yes, that would be great. I don’t know the area at all.”
They crossed the street together, but he stepped ahead and held the bakery door open for her.
