them—“aren’t going to happen. The sooner you get that, the sooner I can finish up this project and get back home.”
“No worries, baby—I got it. Just make sure you don’t have a meltdown before I get my money’s worth.”
“I always deliver. And stop worrying about me—it’s annoying as hell.” She jumped on her bicycle and took off down the road.
Twenty minutes later, the rumble of Smokey’s motorcycle filled the air just as she turned into the Visitor Center’s parking lot, where she caught a glimpse of his hard profile as he sped past.
Putting her bike on the rack, she sat down in the driver’s seat and gripped the steering wheel, and swallowed hard against the bile that rose in her throat. That’s what I wanted—to have him treat me like everyone else.
Then why did she feel hurt and slighted that he’d ignored her when he rode by?
A frustrated sigh pushed past her lips. Enough already! I have to get my life back on track.
Ashley pulled out of the lot and glanced at the time. She wanted to make it back to the house before the handyman and his weird sidekick left.
And more than anything else, I have to stop thinking about Smokey. Mr. Sexy was too much of a distraction. She had to distance herself emotionally from him, and she had to stop kissing him. Period.
Easier said than done.
Ashley rolled down the window, cranked up the radio, hit the gas, and headed back to town.
10
Bud’s Grill was a Pinewood Springs landmark that drew in locals and tourists alike. Located just south of downtown, the iconic restaurant dated back to the late 1940s, when burgers were slung from behind the counter for fifteen cents apiece. Since its inception, the family-owned eatery had served the same menu for generations: hand-crafted burgers, fresh, hand-cut fries, and milkshakes—hand-dipped, and individually whipped the old-fashion way. With its ancient sign propped up on a slightly lopsided roof, Bud’s Grill was a Pinewood Springs institution. A few tables with brightly-colored umbrellas dotted the front and sides of the eatery, and the interior had the wood-paneled, comfortable vibe of a much visited spot.
“This burger is amazing,” Nicole said before taking another bite.
“Ever since I read about it in the guidebook, I’ve been wanting to try it. It’s in the top twenty list of best burgers in the country,” Ashley took a sip of her chocolate milkshake. “I’m going to have to do a few extra miles of biking after this lunch.”
Nicole laughed. “What about me? I have to try on bridesmaid dresses tomorrow. Mariah’s going to kill me, but this is worth it.”
“You could afford to put on a few extra pounds. You look thinner than when I last saw you. What’s going on?”
“Work. I keep thinking I’m going to screw up this new job.” She grimaced. “I know I’m being paranoid, but I feel like a fish out of water. Maybe I bit off more than I could chew.”
“No way. You’re smart as hell. A new job is always a bit scary. I still stress over big accounts and whether a client’s going to like what I propose. You just need time to get comfortable.”
“I’m sure you’re right. I’d feel better if I’d landed this job right out of college. Waitressing and working at a dress salon didn’t exactly prepare me for working at an architectural firm.” Picking up her root beer, she took a long sip.
“But you were interning at different firms. There’s no way Cushing Architecture would’ve hired you if they didn’t think you were a good fit. They’re one of the top fifty firms in Denver.”
“That’s true. I’m still reeling from getting the job. I’m sure in six months or less, it’ll be routine. How do you like working at a construction firm? And how’s it going with your new boss? Danielle wants every detail”—Nicole picked up her burger—“and so do I.”
Tilting her head back, she groaned. “I’m doing a shitty job of being a professional.” She met Nicole’s gaze. “I’ve never had a problem with keeping my work separate from my personal life, but …”
“Mr. Sexy is too sexy, right?” Nicole giggled. “I think your rule of not getting involved with men at work is crazy, especially for you since all you do is work. I mean, where else are you going to meet a man?”
“Having a relationship with someone at work makes everything more complicated. I’m vying for partner, anyway, so it’s not like I have a lot of time. Besides, I’m