•16•Breaking His Rule

Thwack! Thwack!

Adam set a big log of wood on a large tree stump, and with a precise downward stroke of his axe, he divided the log into two. Grabbing the pair, he tossed them onto a small growing pile.

Eva watched in absolute fascination as he worked. “Can I do that too?” She asked him, feeling the urge to test her strength.

He picked another log and placed it on the stump, then stopped to look at her.

“You? Chopping wood?” He all but chuckled, teasing her. “Sorry, Sweetheart. This isn't for you.”

“Try me.” She squared her shoulders daringly and took the axe from him before he could protest.

Pushing him aside, she stood in front of the log. She raised the axe, and focusing with all her strength swung it downward.

She only managed to bury the end of the blade in the log, but jolts of pain shot through her arms, making her withdraw instantly.

“Touché.” She said, wincing as she stepped back. “You were so right. Certainly not for me.”

Adam chuckled, the sound vibrating with warmth. Whe