Exhausted but rejuvenated from the day on the slopes, Erika was disappointed that it was coming to an end. Reed had held her hand in the helicopter several times during the afternoon runs, but as they’d moved to more challenging terrain, their focus had turned to the mountains, and while kissing was still in the back of her mind all afternoon, they’d both resisted.

Now that her safety was no longer at risk, the temptation of Reed’s lips was forefront in her mind.

“You’re welcome. You killed it out there,” Reed said, turning in his seat to face her.

He’d removed his jacket, and the way his black crewneck sweater hugged his biceps as he rested his arm against the steering wheel almost made her mouth water. Watching him expertly move his body down the rugged terrain had her on fire.

“When did you learn to ski like that?” he asked, obviously as reluctant to end the day as she was.

“I took lessons for years. It was the only sport my dad thought was a good use of my time.” She hoped her strained relationship with her father wasn’t evident in her voice. She really didn’t want to end the day on anything other than a high.

“Your dad must be a great role model,” he said, and she heard a longing in his voice. No doubt getting through the troublesome, confusing teen years without his was tough. Reed had been close to his dad and his disappearance had hit him the hardest. She remembered the brief stint of rebellion he’d gone through—skipping school, getting in with the wrong crowd... Luckily his mother had been strong enough to set him straight again.

Funny how he envied her relationship with her father and she’d give anything to have a mother in her life.

“My father is a fantastic example. I’ve learned a lot from him.”

He squeezed her hand. “He may have been tough on you, but look how successful you are.”

Again, longing in his voice. Therefore, she didn’t argue. Her privileged upbringing wasn’t something to complain about. So, her father had never been there for her emotionally, but he’d provided everything else she’d needed. “You’re right.”

He glanced at the time on the dash. “Well, you have the place to yourself... Tank texted to say Diva can stay overnight with them. Kaia’s not allowed to get a dog, so any chance she has to keep Diva longer, she’s all over it.”

Cassie would be okay with that. Tank and his daughter were probably better at caring for Diva than Erika was anyway. And the dog’s reaction to seeing Kaia the day before assured Erika that Diva wouldn’t have any complaints.

“Take a hot bath to ease those aching muscles, have a glass of wine...” Reed continued, his voice going slightly hoarse as his gaze burned into hers.