Page 131 of Her Boss, Her Rancher: Sunrise On The Ranch

“Yeah, I remember that overwhelming feeling. It does get better. How far along are you?”

“Four months. I have a tiny baby bump.” She put her hand on her belly.

“Enjoy that tiny feeling while you can.”

Lauren laughed. “You’re not the first woman to tell me that.”

“Don’t get me wrong, I loved being pregnant. Just knowing that Sienna was thriving and growing inside me was enough. It’s miraculous.”

“I agree.”

Lauren glanced around the kitchen. “Is there anything I can do to help you out in here?”

“I think I’m good right now. But if Sienna acts up, I might ask you to entertain her until I get the dinner on the table.”

“I’d love to.”

“Thanks.”

“I’ve put a dish of appetizers on the dining room table. You all can give them a try and let me know how you like them.”

“Sounds good to me,” Lauren said. “I’m always famished these days.”

“Give a holler if you need anything, Bella,” Jared said. “You know where to find us.”

Jared led his family to the dining room. Lauren took a seat and then popped a stuffed cherry tomato into her mouth. “She’s darling.”

Jared grinned. “Sienna’s a cute kid.”

“I was talking about Bella. And don’t pretend you didn’t know who I meant.”

“Uh, oh, bro. Lauren’s got that look in her eye.” Cooper sat and grabbed a mini veggie frittata.

“What look?” Jared asked.

“The matchmaking kind,” Cooper answered.

Lauren downed another appetizer. “Mmm, these are delish. And I’m not matchmaking. But what do you know about her? Is she dating? Does she have someone in her life?”

Jared shrugged. “Hell, I don’t know. I don’t talk to her about personal stuff like that. But she’s never mentioned anyone. She’s got her hands full right now with working and raising a child on her own.”

“She’s beautiful,” Lauren said softly.

“I’ve noticed...”

Lauren grinned. “I was talking about Sienna this time.”

Jared rolled his eyes. His sister-in-law was messing with his head.

“But now that you mention it,” she added, “you haven’t met anyone quite so nice in a long while.”

“I didn’t mention it.”

Cooper chimed in. “Johnna’s been dropping by.”

“Coop, please... I’m not interested in Johnna. I’m not interested in anyone.”

Lauren covered his hand with hers. Now he was in deep trouble. “It’s just that you’re a great guy, Jared. You deserve to be happy.”