Page 19 of Mr. Red

Work on Gym Opening—Make Outline

Clean Home

Take Another Bath

I wish time with Matt could be on the schedule, but it’s just another day of tasks.

A sip of coffee on the couch in a warm mug helps fight off the brisk chill this morning. I pull a blanket over me too while I gaze at the empty space on the wall between two windows, opposite the couch. I should get a fireplace, even if it’s an electric one. Waking up with some coffee while the fireplace is glowingandwarming up my place sounds nice.

After taking my time waking up, I get dressed, choosing some white tennis shoes to complete my outfit. Shoes will have to do; I don’t want heavy boots on in case they irritate my hip. I tie my hair back, grab a water canteen, and apply some bug spray. I grab a banana on my way out the door to give me some energy for the trails.

Fifteen minutes later, I arrive in public parking for a hike. There’s a familiar-looking car I’ve been seeing at the gym. It’s a little flashy, which is why it caught my eye. There’s a shield on the front, but I’ve never paid attention to the brand.

Hmmm.

I get out of the car and start trekking. I choose the route that’ll take me to a view of the lake. As I’m walking, steps crunch on the dirt and gravel behind me. My shoulders tense, eyes go wide, and my breathing stops. I reach for the pepper spray on my keys. I can use the keys as a weapon too!

The familiar deep voice pulses through me. “Hey, Miss Scarlett! Funny running into you here.”

I turn around to Matthew Reding.

What’s he doing here?

His gray T-shirt hugs his chest and biceps. His sunglasses shroud his eyes, so I can’t tell if he’sactuallyhappy to see me. The fingers hanging onto the straps of his backpack make him look like an experienced hiker.

“Hello, Mr. Reding,” I say, fighting a smile. “At least we didn’t hit each other this time.”

I’m having a hard time believing he’s in front of me right now. I’ve gotten used to seeing him at the gym. Yeah, that’s why I’m at a loss for words. It’s not because of how good he looks in those jeans or how my stomach flips at the sight of his crooked smile.

I wasn’t supposed to see him today. I was supposed to clear my head of him. I go to walk off and carry on with my hike, but he continues to walk behind me.

“Call me Matt. I didn’t get a call last night.”

“I was under the impression you would think it’s a date. Thought I’d play it safe. To be fair, I never told you I wouldcall, either. You just assumed.” I quicken my steps.

“Right.” He sounds disappointed while following me. “Looks like we bumped into each other anyway. Mind if I join you? You probably shouldn’t be walking alone.”

The insinuation I’m a damsel in distress is ridiculous. I stop and turn to him. “Do you walk alone?”

He seems surprised. “Yes.”

“Why would you walk alone and not me? Because I’m a woman? I can’t possibly take care of myself?” I raise an eyebrow at him.

“I didn’t meanjustyou. It’s unsafe for anyone to walk alone. Groups are better.”