Accidentally Hers (Sterling Canyon #1) Read Online Free PDF Page B

mess. Watch her blame me for her brother’s injuries. I bet she thinks he wouldn’t have swerved and hit the lamppost if I hadn’t been on the road.” Grey frowned, shaking off his own niggling feelings of guilt.
    “You know it’s not your fault.” Trip sank deeper into the chair and crossed his legs at the ankles. “He’d been drinking.”
    Grey pitched the card across the table. “I know. But if I hadn’t been out there on my bike, he might’ve made it home without hurting himself or anyone else.”
    How many times had he replayed the events of that evening? Five minutes either way would’ve avoided the whole thing. Fate chose to test him instead. At least a physical test was one he had a chance of passing.
    “We could look into PTs elsewhere. It’ll probably involve a thirty-mile drive or farther each way. Could be a problem until we get through the snow season.”
    “No. This could work in my favor. Maybe I’ll learn something about Randall that could help move my case along faster. Besides, I want the best so I can get back on the mountain as early as possible.” Grey drummed his fingers on his thigh. Shaman trotted over and rested his head on the sofa cushion, waiting for affection from Grey, which he promptly received. Grey petted Shaman’s head, gazing at nothing in particular. “If she’s the best, then that’s the end of the discussion. I’ve dealt with tougher situations.”
    “Of course, she might not want to work with you.” Trip cocked one brow.
    Grey’s voice hardened as he glanced at the card on the table. “She’ll work with me. It’ll be her way of making up for her brother’s mistake.”
    “That’s harsh—and unlike you.”
    “I’m feeling pretty harsh right now.” Grey rubbed at his thigh again. “I’ve got very little in savings and a three-hundred-thousand-dollar loan hanging over my head. I could lose everything in a New York minute if I’m not looking out for myself. I can’t take any chances. And if I have to apply a little pressure to get what I need, then so be it.” Grey sighed at Trip ’s shocked expression. “Don’t pull a face. You know I’ll be nothing but polite— compassionate, even —but Avery Randall will agree to work with me.”

Chapter Three
    Grey exited the cab on crutches and lumbered toward the rehabilitation center, bracing for a confrontation with Randall’s sister. During the past twenty-four hours, he’d felt like two wildcats were wrestling inside his chest.
    Working with Randall’s sister was either brilliant or plain stupid. Guilt over her brother’s actions could spur her to work harder, or make it uncomfortable and awkward. Gripped by indecision, he knew only one thing was certain: aggressive therapy.
    He drew the crisp mountain air into his lungs before opening the door of the bustling clinic.
    Inside, sunlight flooded through the large windows, bouncing off the wall of mirrors lining the spotless exercise area. State-of-the-art gym equipment filled the airy space. That and the citrusy-clean scent improved his mood considerably, although his muscles still twitched in anticipation of their introduction.
    He trudged to the receptionist area, pleased to discover a candy dish filled with Jolly Ranchers set upon the station’s counter. After fishing around the bowl for a grape piece, he tossed it into his mouth. Lollipops were preferable to Jolly Ranchers, which always stuck to his teeth, but honestly, he’d never met a grape candy he didn’t like.
    “Good morning.” A chipper young lady smiled at him. “Are you here to see Dr. Randall, Mr. White, or Ms. Hastings?”
    “I’ve got a four-thirty appointment with Dr. Randall,” he replied. “Grey Lowell.”
    “Super,” she said. “Did you print out and complete the paperwork?”
    “I’m not a patient yet. I’m just here to meet with her.” He dug into his jacket pocket and pulled out folded-up papers. “I did fill out these forms in case we end up working