She looks genuinely sad, so I don't understand why she'd willingly waste the rest of our time together. But I don't fight her on it. Fallon's a grown woman, and I'll respect her decision.
"Sure, I get it. We just got caught up in the moment. It’s fine."
"Really? You’re not upset?"
"Fallon, what kind of guy do you think I am?" I press a fist to my chest, pretending to be wounded. Then I place a palm on her shoulder for reassurance. "If that's what you want, I'll act like it never happened, okay?"
"Just like that? Things won't be weird with me staying here?"
I rock my head back and forth with a grin. "Not any weirder than you showing up out of the blue and seeing me completely naked and spraying me with mace."
Her shoulders drop. "Are you ever gonna let me live that down?"
Bellowing out a laugh, I shake my head. "Never."
"So we're good?"
"Of course, Little Miss Seattle." I flash her a wink, then stand to find Dasher. "I'll be working most of the day, so help yourself to whatever. As if you need my permission."
"Ha ha. I'll probably drive into town and look around."
"Good, enjoy yourself and do some shopping. We're set to visit Bennett's Orchard Farm tomorrow, and then you're scheduled to meet with the mayor on Tuesday."
"Any updates from the furnace guy?" she asks, shivering.
"No, I suspect it'll be another few days. Don't worry, I'll chop some more wood so you don't freeze to death."
"Thanks. I appreciate that." She takes a large gulp of coffee. "You're not leaving me with Dasher again, are you?"
"No, I learned my lesson. He's coming to the farm with me." At the mention of his name, he trots over. "C'mon, boy. Time to go."
Dasher jumps up on Fallon and licks her face. "No, Dasher. Ew, stop it."
"Dasher, down." I snap my fingers, and he immediately obeys.
"How the hell do you do that?"
I wiggle my fingers at her. "It's all in the wrist, my love."
She rolls her eyes.
"Call or text if you need anything, okay?"
"Will do."
I grab my keys and wallet, then whistle for Dasher.
"Bye, Fallon," I call out as we head out the door.
"Bye."
And I walk out as if my heart isn't more bruised than it was this morning.
CHAPTERTHIRTEEN
LEVI
DAY 8