I shove open the door and stomp across the yard.
“Morning,” he rasps, running a hand through his damp hair.
I avoid his torso and glare at his handsome face.
“What in the world are you doing?” I snap as I storm toward him.
“Well, I just showered and heard someone hauling ass to the barn.” He grins. “Pleasant surprise.”
I scoff. “I mean, what are you doing getting in the middle of my business?”
“You’ll have to be more specific, Laiken. It’s early.”
My fists clench. “You paid to have my plumbing fixed. Why?”
He crosses his arms. “You need running water.”
“And I will get it. With my own money.”
“You mean the money you get for doing my rehab?”
I pinch the bridge of my nose. He’s impossible. And sort of right.
“Call it an advance. Stop being stubborn, Laik. Let me help.” He lifts his palms like it’s just an innocent gesture.
Nothing about him is innocent. Which is the only logical reason I spit out my next words like a jealous schoolgirl.
“And how does yourwifefeel about you shelling out seven grand to help some other woman in need?”
He drops his hands, his eyes flaring as he takes a brisk step toward me. I didn’t realize how long of a stride he has. He’s right in front of me. So close I can smell the fresh shampoo scent on his hair. See the tattoos wrapping around his bicep.
Wait…is that…
“Look at me.”
The sternness in his voice has my gaze snapping up to his.
“There is onlyonewoman who will ever hold that title and it sure as fuck isn’t Tori Jackson.” His words are low, the truth ringing loud and clear.
The honesty in his eyes matches his declaration. He’s not playing.
“And who would that be?” I sass.
Do I really want to know? Probably some buckle bunny groupie if it isn’t her.
Before he can respond, a voice from behind me breaks the moment.
“Everything all right out here?” Emmett, Ivy’s dad, a staple in Mayson Ridge, smirks with Ruthie by his side.
“Everything is fine, Unc. Just clearing a few things up,” Parker answers with confidence.
“Laiken, how’s that little cowboy?” Ruthie asks as she steps over to hug me.
“He’s good.” I give her a gentle squeeze, still trying to dissect Parker’s words.
There is only one woman who will ever hold that title.
“You’re coming to the branding day tomorrow, right?” Ruthie asks as she grabs Parker next.
