Heart of the Forest

Chapter 10 Millie's POV

Dress warm, comfy, and wear boots. Comfy boots you don't mind getting dirty and can walk in.

That was the text I got from Sam this morning. What does that even mean?I literally had no idea where we were going.

I had a feeling it would be somewhere outdoors though. I finally decided on jeans, long brown boots, and a beige tank top covered by a chunky green patterned sweater.

There was a knock on the door and my heart stopped. I glanced at the clock and it was 5:00 on the dot.

The exact time he said he would be here. That man is punctual. Smiling I opened the door as immediately started laughing.

He was wearing a long-sleeve green shirt with jeans and brown boots.

"You are always copying my outfits." I said and he grinned

"No way you are always copying mine. I definitely get dressed first." He replied smugly, handing me a bouquet of white flowers.

I could get used to getting flowers every few days. 

"Where is Connor?" He asked looking around I guess surprised he didn't come running to the door.

"Aunt Jules picked him up early. Something about wanting to take him fishing and letting him catch his own dinner," I said while making a face. That just did not appeal to me. Blah.

"He will love that," he chuckled, "Jules always has the best ideas."

"No doubt. That boy would live outside if he could. He makes me take him for a hike basically everyday in the forest. It's exhausting" I said with a sigh.

As I spoke his eyes got huge with worry and an odd expression came over his face.

"What," I asked.

"Uh nothing. I was the same way as a boy. I never wanted to be inside." He replied in an awkward voice. Strange.

"Shall we go?" He asked before I could question him further.

He held out his arm, I accepted, and suddenly the awkward tension was replaced by excitement.

Sam led me outside towards his truck. I thought he was about to open the door for me but kept leading me forward into the forest. Wait what?

"Um hey the truck is that way." I said awkwardly.

"I know," he smiled " I'm taking you up my favorite mountain."

"What!?! It's  going to be dark in like two hours! Plus I bet there's coyotes and bears that come out here at night." he ignored my ranting and just kept walking.

Suddenly, I stoped dead in my tracks " you aren't going to kill me are you because I totally have pepper spray in my purse."

He busted out laughing. "Okay first off never tell the  murder about the pepper spray just use it or else you won't have the element of surprise. Secondly, I know this forest like the back of my hand and none of those animals will bother us. I'm going to show you the most amazing thing you've ever seen."
"Trust me?" He added the last part staring straight in my eyes with his hand held out.

He spoke with so much sincerity I didn't even hesitate before taking his hand and replying "yes."

As soon as I took his hand a warmth enveloped me that I had long missed. I felt content despite the growing fire burning within me.

The air was crisp and cool but I only felt warmth. The leaves were all different colors and some fell as we walked. I had to admit this forest was beyond stunning.

After about 10 minutes we came upon a large mountain I didn't even know existed.

"Most of the mountains are on the other side of town but this one and a few others stand alone in the forest. This one is my favorite." He spoke. His voice was deep and sexy and stirred something within me.

"Hope those boots are comfy. If not I'll gladly carry you." He grinned.

"I think I can manage."

"Oh no doubt. You are a strong independent woman after all. But if you change your mind I definitely won't mind." He said winkingz

"Just lead the way" I spoke while shooing him along with my hand.