Total pages in book: 40
Estimated words: 38335 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 192(@200wpm)___ 153(@250wpm)___ 128(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 38335 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 192(@200wpm)___ 153(@250wpm)___ 128(@300wpm)
“Yep. Just the two of us.”
I find myself further curious but refrain from asking, knowing it’s not my business.
Instead, we talk about an array of other things she seems very content to talk about. In a very short amount of time, I find out what grade she’s in, who her best friend is, about a boy named Jacob who chases down all the girls at recess trying to kiss them, and the fight Sarah and Betty are having because Betty told one of Sarah’s secrets. I also found out her favorite teacher is Mrs. Collette, and that her favorite subject is leadership. She also tells me she was chosen this month to pick an act of kindness and she chose to start a donation box for families in need for the holiday season.
I find it admirable how thoughtful she is, especially at such a young age.
“We have quite the stockpile already and there’s still a few more weeks of school left,” she reveals excitedly.
“That’s great. I would love to help out and donate something too.”
She straightens at the offer. “Really?”
“Absolutely. What kind of things are you looking for?”
“We take all sorts of stuff. Canned goods, toys, winter clothing…we’re grateful for anything you’re willing to give.”
Her enthusiasm is heartwarming. “I’ll tell you what, this weekend I’ll go buy a selection of all the things you just mentioned and bring them by the school on Monday morning before work. How does that sound?”
“That sounds amazing. Thanks so much, Hollis.” She throws her tiny arms around my waist.
Warmth invades my heart as I return her hug. “You’re welcome. I’m glad I can help.”
She breaks the connection, smiling up at me. “Boy, am I glad I chose to use your phone instead of someone else’s.”
I chuckle, amused by her candidness. “Me too.”
I’ve enjoyed her company. It has been the highlight of my day.
Before either of us can say more the bell above the door chimes. “Poppy?” A deep voice calls out, a note of panic evident within. “Where are you?”
I frown, the voice sounding vaguely familiar.
“I’m over here, ya big lug.” Poppy jumps off the stool and races around the front counter, excited to see her big brother.
I remain where I am and make sure to wear my most welcoming smile, wanting to reassure him that she’s been in good hands.
“Thank, christ.”
I hear the curse of relief before the male rushes into view, sweeping a young Poppy up into his arms. My smile drops like an avalanche when I see it’s none other than Officer Grumpy Pants.
No freaking way.
Shock paralyzes me where I stand, every muscle in my body weighted as he checks Poppy over in concern.
“Are you all right?” he asks. “Are you hurt?”
“I’m fine. Stop being such a worrywart,” she says, dismissing his concern. “I’ve been having a great visit with my new friend, Hollis.”
His shoulders visibly stiffen at the mention of my name. Obviously, he remembers it from my license this morning, which is not a good sign.
He slowly rotates, his eyes meeting mine in a powerful connection that suspends time. For a moment, everything else fades away, leaving only the weight of his stare and the hitch of my breath.
God, he’s even hotter than I remember.
Disbelief fills the color of his irises before disapproval takes its place. “You’ve got to be shitting me. What the hell are you doing here?”
His rude reaction slaps me in the face, sending me crashing straight back to reality. My anger from this morning resurfaces, bringing a rush of heat to my cheeks.
“She works here, obviously. Duh.” Poppy rolls her eyes, making him look like the jackass he is, before following it up with a smile. “Mike, meet my new friend, Hollis.” She gestures to me. “Hollis, this is my brother, M—”
“We’ve met.” Our replies collide in unison, our dislike for one another apparent—more his than mine since he is the one who seems to have the problem.
“Really? That’s great!” Poppy either doesn’t pick up on the tension or she ignores it. Considering how smart she is I’m going with the latter.
His stony glare never wavers until Poppy lays a hand on his cheek, forcing him to look her way. Instantly, that mean stare melts away, softening every stony feature of his ridiculously handsome face.
I should probably be offended that his disdain is reserved just for me, but I’m glad to know he isn’t a complete dipshit to his sister.
“Did you find out what happened to No Show Nancy?” she asks.
“Yeah, I talked to her.” By the anger tightening that perfect jawline, I can only imagine how that conversation went.
“Well, what did she say?” she presses.
“Apparently, there was a last-minute tryout for the cheer team, and she thought you would wait for her.”
My mouth drops at the sheer audacity of this babysitter.
Poppy shakes her head, sighing her disappointment. “I guess that’s what we get for hiring a teenager.”