Cullen

by Anna Joung

  “I know the last seven years have been tough for you, boss. After everything that’s happened, it’s taken a lot of strength to carry on. But I’m wondering whether you’re ready to move on by inviting Riley over to your house?”

  I felt a bubble of anger pop inside me, “You don’t know what you’re on about, Liam, and it would be good if you kept your mouth shut. I know what happened is public news in this town but I don’t want anyone’s sympathy. As you said, it happened over seven years ago, I’m not going to sit and wallow in my own self-pity. Saying that, I also have no intentions towards Riley and I would like you to watch what you say when it comes to this subject. You are my assistant chief, nothing more. It’s time you learned your place.”

  I knew that I was harsher than I should have been and I could see it in his eyes as he took a step back. My words had been a slap and I knew they had hurt him. Holding his hands up he headed for the door before turning back.

  “I know what happened to you was bad, boss, no one would ever deny it. But you’ve changed and not for the better. At some point you’re going to have to accept the cards you’ve been dealt and stop ignoring it. You’re huddled away in that mountain, hiding from everyone and everything. You’ve tried to erase all the pain from your past but all you’ve done is delete part of yourself. I used to look up to you, the youngest fire chief this department had ever seen. You didn’t get that role by being the asshole you are today.”

  Fury boiled in me and I was about to start shouting when the words from Liam sunk in. Liam gave me one last pitiful look before he stormed out the room. I counted to five before heading out myself, locking the door behind me. I headed straight to the apparatus bay where Riley was still waiting for me. At the sound of my footsteps, she stood up and turned, her smile shifting the fog of anger from my mind.

  “My Jeep is parked around the corner, follow me,” I called over to her as I headed for the open doors.

  Liam had provided her with a plastic bag for her soggy clothes, she carried her mobile in her hand as she whisked after me. I gave her a brief nod before we headed out into the stormy night. Sprinting through puddles, I made it to the car quickly. I opened the door for her and waited for her to clamber in before heading to my side. Once again, I slicked my soaking hair back as I tossed my bag into the backseat and started the engine.

  “Do you live far from here?” she asked.

  “Just a bit further into the mountains,” I replied, “Most of the guys can’t live too far from the station, especially if they are on-call. We have to be ready to jump into action at any moment.”

  I carefully pulled out from my spot and slowly went along the roads. Despite knowing them like the back of my hand, I didn’t trust the weather, especially after seeing Riley’s sedan bent around the tree.

  “Do you live alone?”

  I felt my words catch in my throat as I debated how much detail to tell her. Not wanting to laden her with my past, I kept it simple –

  “Yes.”

  “And why do you live in the mountains? Are there many people around you?”

  “My family is from a long line of hunters. Obviously, the house has been redone since centuries past and now it’s a rather modern cabin. There’s no one around but I like my solitude. I inherited it from my parents when they retired and moved state. It’s the family home.”

  The family home.

  Silence fell between us as we listened to the drumming of the rain upon the car. I turned into the twisting road as it led further up the mountains. Relatively speaking, I still really lived at the foot of The Iron Peaks but very few houses could be found this high up regardless. It was reserved for those who’d rather take a step back from society. Finally, we rolled up next to the cabin, I got as close as possible so it would only be a quick sprint up the stone path to the house.

  “We’re here,” I announced, “Be careful on the stones, they can get rather slippery, especially after this much rain. You ready?”

  “I don’t really have much choice,” she laughed.

  On the count of three, we both burst from the car, slamming the doors behind us as we ran from the storm and up to the sheltered deck at the front of the cabin. Quickly, I dug out my keys and opened the door, both of us quickly entering before slipping off our shoes. The shorter parts of her hair which had escaped her ponytail sat in limp lines down her face.

  “Come through and take a seat.”

  I ushered her through to the living room where she settled into the couch. I took her bag of damp clothes from her and put them into the dryer along with my uniform. When I came back, she was staring out the window as the rain whipped wildly in the wind.

  “What a night,” she murmured.

  “Certainly is. Can I offer you something to drink or eat?” I asked.

  “Just some water would be great, although lord knows I’ve had enough of water to last a lifetime.”

  I nodded and headed to the kitchen. I filled up two glasses from the fridge before heading back to her, offering her one before taking my seat in the armchair. We both stared out into the night before she turned to face me.

  “It’s a lovely place you have. I’ve always wanted to move out of the city.”

  “I don’t think I could ever live in a city. Nature keeps me sane. Going for hikes out in the mountains is the best thing to wash away the pain.”

  She paused before asking, “Do you have a lot of pain that needs washing away?”

  Once again, I found myself on the precipice of telling her everything. Every sordid detail of my past that haunted my every living moment. It had been a long night for both of us, so I just shook my head.

  “I’ll tell you about it another time. You must be tired. Are you sure you don’t want anything to eat before I show you to your room?”

  “No, I’m good. I just want to put this night behind me.”

  I took the glasses and placed them in the kitchen sink before leading her to the guest room. As I opened the door, I caught the all too familiar scent. No matter how much I redecorated, the smell would never leave.

  The room that never was.

  “You get settled and I’ll go grab some things for you.”

  I quickly departed from the room, never being able to spend more time than necessary in there. I wondered whether having someone stay in there since it all happened would help ease the pain. I could only hope.

  From my bedroom, I pulled an old oversized t-shirt out before digging through my bathroom supplies for some soap, shampoo, mouthwash and a clean towel. I folded them up and headed back to where she was perched on the bed.

  “Are you sure I’m not being an inconvenience?”

  “No, it’s a pleasure to have you here,” I smiled, “Here, there’s a few things to get you through. There’s a bathroom just down the hall. Don’t worry, I have my own ensuite so I won’t be bothering you. Just make yourself at home. I’m next door so if you need anything just bang on the wall.”

  “I really don’t know how to thank you…” she started.

  I held up my hand, “There’s no need. Have a good night.”

  Our eyes locked for a few seconds but it felt like she could see directly into my soul. My heart pounded in my chest and I could feel myself drawn to her. Quickly, I left the room, closing the door behind me.

  ***

  Riley

  The sunlight warmed my face as I woke up, blinking away my dreams. Slowly, I opened my eyes and felt momentarily confused.

  Where am I?

  Then the memories of last night came flooding back. I was surprised to find a small bubble of excitement in the pit of my stomach rather than fear. Despite barely knowing the man, there was a powerful connection between the fire chief and me and I was looking forward to talking to him today.

  Before I left the bed, I reached across to the small table and grabbed my phone. I groaned as I looked at the missed call from my sister. I hadn’t told her about last night, fearing her reaction, but now I knew I wo
uld have to admit everything to her. Biting my lip, I hit the dial button.

  She picked up instantly, “Riley, where are you? You didn’t answer my call last night, I thought something had happened to you!”

  “About that…” I fathomed my strength, “I got into an accident last night.”

  “What?! Where are you? I’m coming to get you.”

  “There’s no need,” I protested, “I’m fine. The car got damaged though. The storm was so heavy and I swerved into a tree. I blacked out and the next thing I knew the fire chief was rescuing me and I took refuge in the station. He checked me for concussion and the local mechanic is checking out the car. I need to head over to his soon to see if it’s fixed.”

  “Oh, Riley, why didn’t you call me sooner? Are you sure you’re okay? Where have you been all night? In the station?”

  “No, the fire chief took me back to his…”

  “Well, I guess you didn’t have such a bad night after all.”

  “Not like that!” I groaned, “He let me stay in his guestroom. We didn’t even drink or anything. I had some water and went straight to bed. Now I’m going to get washed up and hopefully we can head into town and get the car. Also, I still need to pick up your order so I really should get going. But first, how’s Isabella? Has she been okay?”

  “She’s having a great time. We’re going to the movie theater later to watch this documentary about a female scientist. She’s certainly growing up to be quite the feminist.”

  “That’s my girl,” I smiled, “Anyway, I’ll talk to you later, okay? Hopefully, I’ll be home by this evening. Save me some dinner?”

  “Call me before you leave, see you.”

  She hung up and I tossed my phone back onto the side table. I tugged down the side of the old t-shirt and grabbed the towel, heading straight to the bathroom. I was surprised to see my clothes neatly folded on the side, dry from yesterday’s rain. Stripping down, I jumped into the shower, letting the hot jets wash away the night. After washing my hair and body, I toweled myself off and got changed. I placed the t-shirt and towel on the chest of drawers in the bedroom before collecting my phone and heading towards the living room. I had just started heading down the hallway when the scent of sizzling bacon hit me. My stomach grumbled as I padded the rest of the way.

  “Good morning, how did you sleep?” Cullen called over to me.

  My mouth hung open as I stared at the man, topless as he cooked breakfast. His torso was perfectly toned and I could see every glistening muscle. I wondered what it would feel like to run my hand down his abs. My body clenched at the thought.

  Shaking myself from my daydream, I replied, “It was great, thanks. And thank you for the clothes, I still can’t believe how much you’ve done for me. Is everyone this kind in Chester?”

  “We have our black sheep as every town does but you’ll tend to find everyone here loves having visitors. Not many people come here so we jump at the chance to entertain. Are you hungry? I’ve whipped up some breakfast before we head out.”

  My stomach grumbled once more, “I wouldn’t say no, it smells delicious. Can I help at all?”

  “You can pour the orange juice if you want? I’ll serve up and I’ll be right over. You’ve come just in time.”

  Nodding, I headed over to the dining table where I poured two glasses before sitting down. I turned to watch him come over with two plates laden with bacon, pancakes, and syrup. He placed one down in front of me before settling in opposite.

  “Sorry, I probably should have asked if you have any dietary requirements.”

  “This is great, thank you,” I tucked in and soon we had both demolished our plates.

  I patted my stomach happily as I helped to clear everything away. I washed the frying pan and put everything else in the dishwasher, insisting he had done enough. After a few minutes of resting, I tucked my phone into my jeans and we were ready to head out.

  “Let me put a shirt on before we go.”

  I was on the verge of protesting but bit my tongue. I had very much enjoyed seeing his bare chest this entire time. There was something about his athletic rugged look that turned me on. Embarrassed, I looked out the window as he got changed and we left the cabin, him locking up behind us before we got into the Jeep. We chatted briefly on the way down the mountain, I enjoyed looking at everything sparkle in the sun after being coated in water from the storm yesterday. As we got further towards the town, the trees became sparser until we entered the tangle of buildings. Downtown, we pulled into the mechanic’s and we hopped out.

  “Cillian?” Cullen called.

  Within a minute, the dark figure from yesterday appeared. He gave us a quick nod before leading us to my sedan. It still looked pretty rough and I feared for the worst.

  “It’s still going to take me another day,” Cillian confirmed my fears. “You managed to knock it right in the sweet spot, I’m afraid. Don’t worry, I’ll get her running as though she were brand new by the time I’m done but that won’t be until tomorrow. Are you going to be okay to wait?”

  I felt deflated, “I don’t really have much choice.”

  Cullen gave me a comforting pat on the back as we headed back to his car. After getting inside, I asked him whether we could pop into the vintage shop so I could pick up Amy’s order.

  “What? Beltline Fad?”

  “That’s the one,” I confirmed.

  “You’re meeting all the Carters today, huh?” he laughed.

  I wasn’t sure what he was talking about so I remained silent until we pulled up outside the shop. He said he’d wait in the car whilst I collected the order so I jumped out and headed into the store. The interior was just as magical as the exterior. I could’ve sat and examined everything in there all day long. The walls were crammed with all sorts of objects, the racks filled with clothes. It had a musty smell but it was rather comforting. There at the front of the store, stood a mixed-race woman humming happily as she folded a shirt.

  “Hi,” I called to her, “I’m here to pick up an order for my sister.”

  She looked up, beaming at me, “Welcome to Beltline Fad. What’s your sister’s name?”

  “Amy Green.”

  “I think I’ve got it in in the back room, you’ll have to excuse me, I’ve got a bit of a pregnancy brain right now. I tend to forget things.”

  I smiled as she waddled away to collect the order. While I waited, I traced my finger down the length of a silk scarf before examining some silver rings on display.

  “Here it is,” she handed me the package. “It’s all paid for. Is there anything else I can do for you?”

  “Well, now I’m here I could do with a change of clothes. I’ve been somewhat trapped here since last night after I had an accident.”

  “Oh!” her face lit up. “You must be the lady who hit into a tree. My husband, Cillian, is dealing with your car. Has he managed to get it up and running?”

  “Not yet but he said it should be done by tomorrow. What a small world, I didn’t realize he was your husband.”

  “Happily married for the last two years,” she grinned before rubbing her expanding belly. “And soon to have another addition to the family. Anyway, let me get you sorted with some clothes. I insist, it’s on the house.”

  I tried to protest but she silenced me as she waddled about the store, picking up items as she went. By the time she was done, I had another pair of jeans, a white shirt, a floral summer dress, a pair of sandals, and a silky nightdress bagged up.

  “I really can’t accept all this.”

  “You can and you will,” she shoved the bag at me.

  I thanked her before leaving the store to find Cullen leaning against the hood, staring up into the cloudless sky. Upon hearing the bell upon the door, he turned to face me, a brief smile lighting upon his chiseled face.

  “All done? How much did your sister order?” he squinted at the two bulky bags in my hands.

  “Well, one is for her and the other is for me. Mrs. Carter i
nsisted I take some supplies whilst her husband fixes the car. Now I know what you mean about meeting all the Carters. They’re a wonderful couple though.”

  “With an interesting background.”

  He told me their story on the way back to the cabin. I listened intently as he listed their tale of love, all the while I could see the pain in his eyes.

  What are you hiding Cullen Price?

  Chapter 3

  Cullen

  I opened the door wide enough to allow her access back into the cabin. I didn’t expect to have her back in my house but for some reason it made me happy to have her there. I forced down the joy, trying to control what I considered were irrational feelings before placing her bags near the couch.

  “I can take these into the guest bedroom if you prefer? Do you want to get changed?”

  She raised her hands, “Oh no, I can’t stay another night.”

  I felt my heart sink and, once again, I pondered where these emotions were coming from. I shook them away before she continued.

  “I’ve imposed on you too much. I can call my sister and she can come pick me up, I’m sure it’ll be fine. Or maybe I can find somewhere to stay in Chester?”

  “You haven’t imposed at all and I’ll be offended if you stay somewhere else in Chester. Am I not hospitable enough? I’ve been told I’ve been pretty rough around the edges for the last few years.”

  She looked at me from underneath her long lashes, “Are you sure? Truly?”

  “Absolutely,” I nodded, “So, I’ll take these bags to the guestroom?”

  “I can take them myself, no worries. I’ve got to call my sister anyway and let her know what’s happening.”

  “Maybe afterwards we can go for a walk?” I asked.

  “I would like that. Might as well enjoy this unexpected vacation whilst I can.”

  I watched as she went to get her things. My eyes couldn’t look away as she bent over and I took in the curves of her ass, snugly fitted into her jeans. Once again, I felt my chest tighten and I quickly looked away as she stood up, feeling heat rush to my face in case she caught me watching. Instead she gave me a smile and walked out of the room.