Page 35 of Unraveling Rain
“Count me in. I’m assuming you sing too?” he asks, adjusting the bill of his hat.
“No. Ruin is the singer in the family. I play the drums, though.”
He lets out a mock screech and clutches his chest like he’s having a heart attack.
“You’re not only beautiful but also smart, talented, and you play the drums? I think I’m in love.”
I shake my head, failing miserably at hiding the smile that breaks across my lips.
He's way too dramatic. And I’m enjoying every second of it.
“How do you know I’m smart and talented? We just met,” I say with a shrug as I take the exit for the national forest we’re visiting today.
“Well, you can carry on a conversation. You have a job. And yes, before you interrupt me, it’s a family business. But if you weren’t smart and talented, the diner wouldn’t be as successful as it is.”
I raise an eyebrow and nod slowly.
“It seems like you’ve been stalking me,” I tease, keeping my eyes on the road and biting the inside of my cheek to keep from laughing.
I know I’m taunting him, but I love the playful back-and-forth between us.
“I like reading about things that interest me,” he says, his voice low and serious.
I swallow hard instead of keeping up the banter.
Is he really into me?
“You’re funny,” I say, shaking my head.
“And you are extraordinary,” he says.
Our eyes lock, and for a heartbeat, I see something flicker in his dark brown gaze—something that looks like curiosity and hope.
“We’re here,” I say quickly, breaking eye contact as I pull into the parking area and turn off the engine.
Real smooth, Rain.
You better stay on your best game with this guy. Otherwise, I fear he’s going to find a way to your heart.
Chapter 10
Xander
Rain is a mystery. She gives, then pulls back. Usually, that kind of behavior would turn me off, but with her, it only makes me want to know her more. She’s funny and bright, but there’s something behind those striking gray eyes that I’m determined to figure out.
“Where are we?” I ask as I hop out of the van and jog around toopen her door.
She’s already waiting for me, which I’m thankful for. I’m a gentleman. I believe in small acts of kindness. It’s how I was raised. But with her, I want to be even more.
“Pisgah National Forest,” she says, taking my hand and hopping down. “My favorite trail is here. And if we have time, there’s a beautiful spot where we can camp and make dinner.” A hint of a blush rises in her cheeks.
Is she nervous?
“I love that idea,” I say, following her to the back of the van.
She pulls a couple of water bottles from her mini fridge, along with a few pouches of nuts and dried fruit, and puts everything into a backpack.
“Here, let me help you,” I say, reaching for the bag, but she hugs it to her chest.
