Page 37 of Just One Spark

I wasn't the electric company.There wasn't much I could do besides check that the generator was operational.I didn't like that he was constantly checking up on me.That he somehow knew that I was distracted and called me out.

Rowan: I'll be there in a few.

Malcolm: I hope you aren't distracted.

Everyone knew that Hattie was living with me now because of her apartment.And no one else thought it was a problem.I wished Malcolm would find something or someone else to worry about and leave me alone.

I found Hattie in the living room, watching the snow come down."I'll clear the snow, then walk to work."

"Thanks for doing that."

I leaned down to kiss her."I'll see you later?"

"I'll be here after I close up for the day."

"Don't work too late and?—"

She rolled her eyes playfully."Call you if I need you.I got it."

"I just wanted to make sure you knew that I'd be there if you needed me."

"I'm getting that," she said with a soft smile.

The last twenty-four hours were almost too good to be true.It was only a matter of time before she freaked out about being too close to me.But in the meantime, I'd enjoy every minute.

12

Hattie

Iwas in a daze most of the day, replaying what happened last night and again this morning.There was a warmth in my chest and a lightness to my body that wasn't there before.I felt good.I wasn't worried about where I was going to live or when the apartment would be done.I was fine where I was living.In fact, I loved it.

I enjoyed Rowan's company, and his attention even more.

There was something about him.He made me feel cherished.For a few minutes, I forgot all the reasons why we'd never work.It was enticing to pretend that this was my real life and I was actually engaged to Rowan Hart.But it was just a fantasy.

At lunch time, Rowan appeared at my window.

I leaned closer, pleased he was here."You want some hot chocolate?"

His smile was easy."I actually wanted to take you somewhere.Can you take a break?"

"I usually take one about now.Let me just tell Meg I can't eat lunch with her today."

He frowned."I didn't want you to cancel your plans with her."

"We don't have official plans per se.I just go there when I can."I texted Meg and then turned the sign to Be Right Back and locked the door to the truck.

Rowan looked so good in his winter jacket and boots, like he could weather any storm.

"Where are you taking me?"

"There's one detail we haven't taken care of yet."He lifted my hand and tapped the bare ring finger.

I grimaced."You don't have to?—"

"If you were my girl, I'd want my ring on your finger," he said softly.

"Yeah, but this isn't real, remember?"It was a good reminder for both of us.