Chapter 20: Getting Closer

He lay down on the porch swing beside me, at ease and lazy.

The swing creaked under his weight, and he stretched out like he belonged there, arm draped across the backrest, gaze fixed on the sky.

“I heard you on the phone.”

His voice was soft, a hint of laughter lurking just beneath the surface.

I immediately felt embarrassed.

I remembered the night before, the way my voice had carried through the open window as I gossiped with my best friend. I tried to hide my smile, but it was no use.

Last night, I’d called my best friend and mentioned Jason.

I’d said, “That guy looks pretty good. It would be a shame if he really died.” We’d both laughed, not realizing Jason was just outside on the porch, within earshot.

Unexpectedly, Jason overheard it!

He just grinned, shaking his head, clearly amused by my lack of subtlety.

Just as I was feeling awkward, Jason suddenly asked, “You don’t look like a local. Why did you come here to open a B&B?”

He looked at me, curiosity genuine. It was the first time he’d ever really asked about my past.

I made something up: “Too much money, nothing to do!”

I shrugged, trying to sound casual. In reality, I was running from everything I’d ever known.

A low laugh rumbled from his throat—it was a very pleasant sound.

The sound was infectious, warm and genuine, wrapping around me like a favorite song on a cold day.

I couldn’t help but look at him, and saw a very pleasing scene—

His hair caught the sunlight, turning it a rich chestnut. There was a mischievous tilt to his mouth, and for a moment, I forgot to be self-conscious.