CHAPTEREIGHTEEN
London
“Morning,” I greet Shane as I enter the kitchen. From the window above the sink, I catch sight of the contestants making their way up from the cabins. They look like zombies.
“Morning.” He grabs my ass. As our relationship progresses, he’s getting more comfortable with public displays of affection. I think he’s still nervous about what others might say or think, especially Ever.
“Hands off.” I swat him playfully as he hands me a cup of coffee.
“Yeah, no,” he says to the “hands off.” I kind of like that—possessive.
“So, really, they have to hook up a tractor?”
His brows quirk up at the question. “Sal said he talked to you about the hay drop.”
“He did, and I walked the field with some new guy yesterday to put up the stakes. But this early?”
“They have to understand that if they want a shot at me, they have to hang. I’m not a free ride.” I snort, and he rolls his eyes with amusement. “You know what I mean.”
“No, I get it,” he says, inclining his head.
“Plus, this knocks out one of my chores. Where’s Snow? She wasn’t in the room when I got up.”
“Already doing her chores. Chickens.”
“Better her than me.” I chortle.
“They’re not bad.” He chuckles.
“Memphis and I beg to differ.” I snort with a wave to make my point. “I bet even Skye would wager in on that.”
“Here,” He hands me a thermos of coffee, “and I’ll have breakfast waiting for you when you get back.” How did I get so lucky?
I love the kitchen. Not only is it where family gathers—or in some cases, hangs out—but the aromas wafting through this room could be called heaven. Someone is always cooking, and it always smells like love and good food. I like to eat, too.
I take a chance and pull him in for a kiss. It’s like home, like this is where I’m supposed to be.
“Go.” He smirks, pushing me toward the door.
“Can—”
“Yeah, I’ll make Afton a plate, too.” He nods like he already knew my question. “The others will have to fend for themselves at the buffet in the food tent.”
“See you in a bit.”
Shane cooks most of the meals, but he has staff that prepares the buffet. He’s come a long way since Season One.
I step out and take in the fresh air, stretching, watching Snow in the chicken coop. She loves those chickens.
“Morning.” Afton waves, and I cross the yard to greet him.
“How did you sleep?” I ask as we both study Snow.
“Good. Did you guys watch a movie?” He yawns, rubbing the back of his head.
“We did. They did. I passed out shortly after we headed upstairs.”
“She’s very pretty.” He nods toward Snow, who smiles when she sees me, and waves.