Chapter Thirteen

“You know, fluffy city chicks rarely do hikes through snow-covered mountains,” she grunted as she climbed the upwards slope to wherever the heck her so-called bodyguard was dragging her.

That was unkind. He was exceedingly thoughtful and had packed plenty of waters and snacks for them both. He even carried them. Truth be told, they’d only been walking like twenty minutes.

With her parka and boots, and the scarf, hat, and gloves he had found for her in the closet, Carolina felt like that kid in A Christmas Story. The little brother who could not put his arms down after his mother finished dressing him for the snow.

“You wanted to see my beast, and I just want to give you the best vantage point. I can carry you, if you want?” he returned and moved towards her, but she swatted at his hands.

“I am not an invalid! Sheesh, can’t a girl just complain once in a while without a man trying to fix everything?”