“Why don’t you and Mabel go and relax. Kollette and I can do the dishes and clean up,” Ethan stated.
Roy looked at her and said, “Are you okay with him volunteering you?”
She smiled at him. “Of course I am. I actually planned on doing the same to him.” That wasn’t totally truthful, but she was going to offer to help. But now she was going to be alone with him in the kitchen. Their choice would be to work in awkward silence or somehow talk without actually saying anything.
Roy and Mabel got up and while holding hands Mabel said, “Thank you so much. It’s been a long day and I think we’re ready to call it a night.”
“You’re welcome and thank you again for letting me help you cook today. I had…fun.” She really had too. Mabel was a good teacher, but she wasn’t a miracle worker and that’s what it was going to take to make Kollette a cook.
When she was alone with Ethan she decided to take charge. “I’ll wash and you can dry.”
Ethan didn’t move and said, “Or we can sit for a few minutes and enjoy another piece of pie with a cup of coffee this time.”
Kollette rolled her eyes. “I can’t believe you can even think about eating any more. I ate so much my ribs hurt.”
“Mabel makes the best pie. I have to eat it while I can.”
She crossed her arms and asked, “You don’t believe I made it?”
Ethan smirked. “It wasn’t…crunchy,” he teased.
She couldn’t help herself but laugh. “Maybe it’s all in the second piece,” she warned. “Should I get you coffee or are you ready to do dishes?”
“Since you put it that way, I guess I’ll get the hand towel.”
It didn’t take long for the dishes to get washed and put away. Mostly because Ethan knew where everything went. “I have a feeling this isn’t the first time you’ve cleaned up.”
“I try to help as much as I can when I stay,” he said.
“I can’t imagine all the guests are quite so helpful.”
“I wouldn’t know because I’ve never met anyone else, until now. How long will be you be staying?” he asked.
Should she tell him now? Sneaking out in the morning wasn’t going to happen. Everyone got up so early that it was impossible. “I’m planning on leaving in the morning.”
“Really? Do Mabel and Roy know?” he inquired.
“Not yet. I figured I’d mention it tomorrow. I know it’s going to sound weird, that I just got here yesterday, but I’m having a hard time thinking about what to say, instead of just saying goodbye.”
“Would it make you feel any better if I told you you’re not leaving tomorrow? Maybe not for a week either?”
“No it wouldn’t. I am leaving in the morning. There’s no reason for me to stay,” she declared.
He cocked a brow. “What does that mean?”
Oh shit! She needed to think quick. She needed something that would sound believable. Got it! “Simple. You’re here. They don’t need two guests at the same time.”
Ethan stared at her as though trying to determine if she was hiding something. Kollette forced herself to meet him in the eyes. Looking away would only make him question her further.
“For the record, I can’t leave either, even if I wanted to,” he stated.
“And why is that?” Kollette asked.
“I guess you really were busy in here with Mabel, because if you’d have looked out the window, you’d see we have almost two feet of snow and it’s still coming down.”
Her eyes widened and she rushed out the kitchen, opened the front door and went onto the porch. Even in the dark of night, she could see Ethan hadn’t been joking. “Oh my God. What am I going to do?”
Ethan must’ve followed her because she felt a warm wool blanket being draped over her shoulders. “I guess you’re going to be learning how to cook, at least until the county gets around to plowing the roads.”
Pulling the blanket more tightly around her she asked, “How long do you think that will be?”
“They won’t even start on these small roads on the mountain until it stops snowing. Roy said that won’t happen till maybe tomorrow. Is there someone waiting for you at home?”
She turned to him shocked at his question. “That is none of your business. But I wasn’t planning on staying for an indefinite amount of time.”
“Nor was I. So I guess we should make the best of it. What do you say we go back inside where it is warm and talk about it there?” he suggested.
“From what you’re saying, there’s nothing to talk about,” she said as she went back inside.
When he shut the front door Ethan said, “Of course there is.”
“Like what?” she asked, hoping he wasn’t going to suggest they get to know each other better.
“How do you feel about board games?” he said.
“Games? You want to play games?” How could he be so calm about being trapped up there? Maybe he had nothing to do back home, but that wasn’t the case for her. She had a job and although she wasn’t expected to return this quickly, she knew her father wouldn’t be disappointed if she had.
He nodded and said, “Unless you’re afraid to lose.”
She glared at him. “Let’s get this straight Ethan. I’m not afraid of anything.” Not necessarily true, but it was the dead of winter. What were the odds of a bug leaping out in front of her? “Do they have any word games?” Ethan walked over to the cupboard and when he opened it she was shocked. The Potters might not have electronic devices, but they sure liked to play games. “Guess those will keep us from getting bored.”
Ethan pulled out a game and walked back over to her. “Trust me Kollette. If you give this place a chance, you’ll find you’re anything but bored.”
She wasn’t sure if she was talking about this place or was he actually thinking that he was all that charming that she’d forget all the things this place was missing. Because that wasn’t ever going to happen.
Hate to break it to you Ethan, but as soon as the roads are cleared, I’m out of here.
3
Ethan had spent many sleepless nights with a woman, but never before had it been because they were in such heavy competition over a board game. The tiny, fragile looking woman who sat beside him, turned into a serious competitor, one who only played by the rules.
It had been kind of cute watching her read the rule books before the game started. She somehow believed he was actually listening. He had, but just enough to get the gist of how to play. He hadn’t been out to win, that was until she decided to place a bet. Losing wouldn’t have bothered him, but he was looking forward to claiming his prize. The person who won the most games got to pick what they would do today.
Ethan knew exactly what he wanted, but it wasn’t an appropriate thought since they barely knew each other and they weren’t actually staying at a lodge. He was positive Roy and Mabel wouldn’t have approved either. So he opted to take her out on a trail ride. It hadn’t stopped snowing, but it slowed down enough that they could make it further up the mountain to the smaller, more private cabin that Roy used during hunting season. Now all he had to do was convince Kollette that he could find his way there and back in this weather.
He wasn’t sure he was right, but the expression on her face when she saw the amount of snow they had last night might make her getting out in it a bit more challenging than he’d like. But she had to expect this type of weather in West Virginia. Granted, even for him, the amount of snowfall was greater than he’d encountered in the past.
He didn’t want Roy to worry about hauling more wood inside, so Ethan had shoveled his way again, bright and early, to the wood shed. The cabin was well stocked, and he should be free to enjoy the day with Kollette.
Ethan wasn’t about to wake Kollette just yet. She probably was recovering from last night herself. He was just about to head back to his room and get a few hours of sleep until he heard a crash coming from the kitchen. He rushed inside concerned that Mabel may have fallen, but
immediately he knew that wasn’t the case by the view. Kollette was facing the opposite direction, bent over, retrieving something off the floor.
He heard her muttering to herself, “What was I thinking? I don’t belong here.”
Trying not to startle her, Ethan said, “I think Mabel would disagree.”
Apparently, his attempt failed, because whatever she had in her hand, now went flying up in the air and came down all around her like the fallen snow.
She spun around and snapped, “You shouldn’t sneak up on people like that.”
“I was actually trying not to scare you,” he stated.
“Maybe next time try clearing your throat or something. Look at me. I’m covered in flour.”
It wasn’t quite that bad, but she did have some in her hair. He walked over and brushed it out. The flour sprinkled across the front of her shirt; well she’d have to take care of that. Trying to lighten the mood he said, “I think it makes you look more like a cook.”
With her hands on her hips she asked, “Are you trying to make this better? Because I can tell you that you’re not.” Sighing she added, “I feel…ridiculous. I saw you got out early to clear a path again today. I thought it’d be nice if when you came back in to have something hot and ready for you.”
Hot and ready for me. Sounds…Like something he shouldn’t think about, or his body might give away his thoughts. “I thought you would’ve slept in.”
“I couldn’t sleep.”
Ethan said, “How about I get us some coffee and you can tell me why?”
“Why don’t you sit down and let me get you one. You’re the one who has been working. I’ve just been in here making a mess,” she smirked.
He sat down and when she handed him the mug he asked, “So what was on the menu?”
“Stuffed crepes.”
He didn’t eat that fancy stuff, but the fact she was even going to attempt it for him, blew his mind. “Those are”
“I know. Way out of my league. I shouldn’t have wasted my time.”
“I was going to say those aren’t something I eat. I’m a bacon, sausage, steak and egg type of guy.”
“Oh. I’m sorry. I guess I’m overly sensitive about my lack of cooking skills,” she said.
“I can’t cook and it doesn’t bother me,” Ethan said.
“That’s different. You’re a man.”
He chuckled. “Thank you for noticing. But what does my being a man have to do with my lack of skill?”
“Have you heard the saying, the way to a woman’s heart is through her stomach?” she asked. Ethan shook his head. “That’s because no one says it.”
“Ah, I got it. You’re worried about what other people think,” he stated.
“No. Not really. But I saw the look on your face yesterday when you ate the eggs. It was like every bite was torture. I hated seeing it.”
Now he really felt like an ass. “So the eggs might not have worked out as you planned. That happens to even the best chefs. If it will make you feel better, you can make me some more and I promise, I won’t make any weird faces while eating them.” Even if they’re crunchy as hell.
“I’m not sure if you’re trying to make me feel better or just getting out of cooking your own breakfast.” She asked staring at him.
He grinned. “A little of both.”
For a minute she looked like she was going to tell him to do it himself. But instead she got up and went to the refrigerator and pulled out the eggs. “You’re on your own if you want bacon.”
“Eggs will be fine, thank you.”
She replied, “Don’t thank me yet.”
But this morning was different. Whether it was Mabel’s guidance, or the fact she wasn’t out to impress him, but she cracked the eggs, one at a time, without any mishaps. While they cooked, she prepared some buttered toast and then plated it all. When she brought it over, he already could see the difference. Hopefully that continued with the taste. Not only had there been shells yesterday, but no salt or pepper.
Taking a bite he waited a second, then said, “See, I told you, everyone has a bad day in the kitchen. Yesterday was just a fluke.”
Kollette said, “I’m glad you like them.”
“Does this mean you’re going to make me breakfast every morning now?” he asked teasingly.
“I believe I’ll quit while I’m ahead. But if you’d like to make me breakfast tomorrow, I won’t complain,” Kollette said smiling.
“I hope you just feel like coffee, because that’s all you’d be getting. The rest might require medical attention.”
“You can’t be that bad,” she stated. “It sounds to me like you’re just trying to get out of cooking.”
“I have five brothers that would confirm I’m telling the truth,” he said.
“Five brothers? Hmm.”
“Does that surprise you?” he asked.
She nodded. “For some reason I would’ve pegged you as an only child.”
“Why is that?”
“Because you talked about coming here when you were in college. With all those brothers, I’d have thought you’d be spending break with them.”
That was a fair assumption. “Now you sound like an only child.”
“No. I have a step-brother. But he’s ten years older than I am, so it’s not like we grew up together. If anything, it’s more like having another father telling me what to do instead.”
“There doesn’t need to be a huge age gap for that to happen.” For years Charles had tried being the boss. Now they respected him as CEO, but as far as family goes, they were equals.
“So where do you fall in that line of boys?” she asked.
“I’m number five. And don’t say you would’ve pegged me as the baby,” he warned.
Kollette giggled. “I wouldn’t dream of saying such a thing,” she gave him a playful wink.
It was enjoyable sitting and talking with her, but he still had a question to ask. “I believe I won a bet last night. What do you say about joining me on a ride up to the hunting cabin?”
“I don’t hunt. Don’t even want to hold a gun,” she said firmly.
“I was suggesting the cabin, not hunting,” he corrected.
She raised a brow and said, “I thought you told me we were stuck here because all the roads were close. And now you’re asking me to go for a ride? How is that possible?”
“Simple. There’s no axel on this mode of transportation. Just a saddle.”
Her face lit up and she exclaimed, “On a horse? I love riding.”
“Great. Why don’t you go and get dressed. May I make a suggestion and dress in layers. It’s still mighty cold out there.”
“Oh yeah. About that. I don’t think I have anything suitable to wear. Not on a trail ride. And definitely not in this weather. I hadn’t planned on doing any outdoor activities.”
“What do you have? And by that I mean do you have something other than what you put on when you were going to help with the wood.” If she was missing gloves or a hat, he was sure Mabel would lend her some. But with her tiny stature, she wasn’t going to fit in anyone else’s clothes. They’d be several sizes too large.
“The warmest thing I have with me besides that is a pair of jeans and a sweatshirt.”
“Boots?” he asked. She shook her head. “Winter coat?” Again, a negative. “Are you telling me you traveled to West Virginia with nothing warm to wear?”
“I really don’t own anything warm,” Kollette stated. “I live in Miami.”
That just crossed horseback riding off the list. “If the roads were open, I’d suggest we go and get you some warmer clothes.”
“If the roads were open, I wouldn’t be here,” she stated.
Ethan never thought he’d be so thrilled to be snowed in. There was something different about Kollette and he wanted her to stay long enough for him to figure it out.
“This doesn’t get you off the hook. I won that bet, and I plan on collecting,” he warned.
She smiled at him. “Since the options are limited, may I suggest tonight we play double or nothing?”
“You do know I won’t let you win,” he said.
She leaned over slightly and whispered, “And neither will I.”
Before they could continue with their conversation, Roy entered the kitchen. “Thought I smelled breakfast.”
“Sorry Roy, you’re late. But I’m sure Kollette would whip you up some eggs,” Ethan said, knowing damn well she was cursing him under her breath.
With a forced smile she said, “I’d be happy to. Why don’t you have a seat? I believe Ethan said he was about to head back out and finish clearing all the pathways for you.”
And the games begin.
Ethan got up and Roy took his seat. Then he smiled at Kollette and said, “She also makes great bacon. Crispy, just the way you like it.”
As he turned and left the kitchen he knew he won that match. Yet the look in her eyes said he was going to pay for it later. I might just have to up the ante.
Kollette had stopped walking around with her cell phone on her because of the lack of reception. But when she returned to her room, the phone showed a missed call. Looking at the caller ID she noticed it was her father. She immediately tried to return his call, but her cell phone blinked call failed.
Damn it.
If she hadn’t been stuck in the kitchen most of the morning, she might have been able to receive his call. He probably was wondering why he hadn’t received any update yet. Hopefully he realized just where he’d sent her. Just in case a text would go through instead, she typed one out.
JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW I’M SNOWED IN. HORRIBLE PHONE RECEPTION. I’LL RETURN TO MIAMI WHEN THE ROADS ARE CLEARED. NO POINT IN PURSUING THE PURCHASE OF THIS PROPERTY. IT’S NOT SUITIABLE TO MEET OUR NEEDS. SEE YOU SOON.
She wanted to add that she loved him at the end, but this was a business text and she wanted to keep it professional. Kollette never knew who was nearby and might see what she wrote. But just in case, her father reached out again and the call went through, she was keeping her phone on her person.
Her eyes were burning from lack of sleep last night, and she’d already committed to another evening of the same. Kollette had helped Mabel prepare dinner, so there was no point in her fighting sleep.
The Billionaire's Deception (The Blank Check Series Book 5) Page 4