As he twisted off the cap, an uncomfortable thought stirred in his mind. His brothers thought he didn’t follow through. Callie had called him a dumbass for thinking he wasn’t dating Vanessa.

Even Rosalina, who barely knew him, thought he might be putting off Vanessa because he wouldn’t commit. Didn’t want his expectations dashed.

So, then, was Rosie a distraction? A way for him to not go too deep with the woman he’d already started a relationship with?

Vanessa’s pretty, smart. She lived here, and she was just as focused on work as he was. She didn’t need flowers and romantic shit. And yet here he was getting all worked up over a woman he couldn’t have, instead of seeing if what he and Vanessa had could develop into something more.

I don’t even want a relationship, so why am I thinking about this crap?

He tipped the bottle and drank. “What’s the project?”

“You mentioned using other indigenous plants to add products for our store, so I took a long hike this morning and explored a bit of your property.” She gestured to the baggies. “Found some really interesting flowers.” She caught sight of his gear. “You’re snowboarding today?”

“I’m going up in the heli to scout a new house location. But, also, my brothers and I were talking about ideas for Owl Hoot, and we came up with a pretty obvious one.”

“And what’s that?”

“A triathlon.”

“Sponsored by world-class athletes? Oh, that’s brilliant. You’ve got the terrain, and if you make the pot big enough, you’ll be successful right from the start.”

“Sounds like you know your stuff.”

“Philanthropy is a big part of my life, so I’ve spent a lot of time organizing events.” She grinned. “I think it’s cute that you’re going up for business, but you just happened to bring along a snowboard. Like, just in case there’s a slope that needs your attention.”

“Might as well get in a ride.”

“You’re going alone?”

He’d wanted to make sure he was gone the whole damn day. “It was a spur of the moment idea, so I haven’t really asked anybody.”

“Would you like some company?”

It took him a minute to figure out she meant her. And then…ah, hell. He was trying to keep his distance, but he knew she wanted some experiences. “You’re welcome to come for a ride on the helicopter. After he drops me off, he can just take you back with him.”

Damn, the woman couldn’t hide a single emotion. Her disappointment was clear.

“Okay, sure.” She set the bag down. “I’ll change my clothes.” As she started out of the kitchen, she said, “Is it safe, though, for you to freeride alone?”