Page 91 of Peaches & Pistols

“Yes, sir.”

I’m still not used to the way her calling me that sends pulses of pleasure straight to my dick.

“Good girl. I’ll have to save your lesson for this evening, because after lunch I’ve got some business to take care of.” I readjust her chair so she can eat comfortably.

“What kind of business?” she asks, arousal still flushing her cheeks and dilating her ocean blue eyes.

Her curiosity is genuine, not coercive or disgusted like Meredith. And I promised her I’d tell her every and anything she wanted to know about the family side-business.

“Word is the Donaldson boys have been stealing catalytic converters from vehicles in town, and scrapping ‘em across state lines up in Laramie. I got a tip about their drop-off location and am going to check it out.” I take a huge bite of deviled-egg salad sandwich and groan from the flavor explosion.

“Is that dangerous?” Mia fusses with the condensation on her glass of peach tea.

“Naw. I’m not going up there to talk to anyone, just need to get eyes on the operation for the Sheriff.” I take a deep swig of my drink.

“What’s a Cadillac converter?” I nearly do a spit-take; she’s fucking adorable.

I don’t bother correcting her, no need to make her self-conscious, so I cover it up like my tea went down the wrong pipe.

“It’s a commonly stolen car part. It’s in the exhaust system under the vehicle and is easily stolen. They contain precious metals that are worth a lot of money.”

“Like, silver and gold? Why would that be in a car part?” She’s yet to look repulsed so I continue.

“Close, mainly rhodium, platinum, and palladium. The mechanic here in town noted an uptick of issues and gave the Sheriff a heads-up. The Donaldson boys are always getting their hands dirty in this or that, so it doesn’t surprise me.” I’m nearly done with my lunch while Mia’s nibbled and sipped.

I rest my elbows on the table and steeple my fingers below my nose. Something’s on the tip of her tongue but I’ll never pressure her to spit it out. Mia stalls by taking a few sips of tea and fiddling with her paper towel napkin.

“Do you think…you could text me updates? Not because I’m trying to be controlling or monitor you. Just so I know you’re safe? I know you don’t like texting, so if you don’t want to I understand,” she rushes out.

It takes every ounce of self-control in my body not to stop the words piercing my heart.

“For you, I’d text every time I breathe, honey. Never be afraid of making your needs known, because I’ll satisfy every single one.” I take her hand over the table, soothing the back of it with my thumb.

“Would it make you more comfortable if I texted you more in general?”

“Yes.” She tries to pull her hand back, but I hold firm, unrelenting in my commitment.

“I was cut off from outside communication for years. Being able to contact people is like a breath of fresh air. Instead of anxiety eroding my sanity, I can reach out with a text and almost always hear right back. Not to mention being able to call anyone I need. I can’t tell you how much it means to me that you got me a phone.” Mia’s fragile smile breaks something inside me.

I’m not sure she realizes how badly she’s been abused. But it’s my honor to pick up the pieces and help her become stronger than ever.

“Have there been many times when you were anxious and would’ve felt better by texting with me?” I already know the answer and will be mentally eviscerating myself for the foreseeable future for causing her so much distress.

She doesn’t want to answer; her body language screams retreat.

“From now on, I want you to text me whenever you want. No limits. I’m sorry for being a grumbly asshole about it. I’ve been sucked into so many group chats with the Andersen clan sometimes I’d want to toss my phone into the Whitetail River. But I promise I’ll always respond to you as quick as I can, okay?”

“Okay.” This smile is more genuine.

I clear my plate, rinsing it and putting it in the dishwasher so Mia doesn’t have to.

“Will you be home for dinner?” She starts eating in earnest, and I’m relieved her appetite’s returned after she voiced what she needed and was met with love instead of pain.

“I hope to be, but I’m not sure. Cecelia’s been begging to spend time with you and the girls. Why don’t you go to the ranch for dinner, and I’ll meet you there as soon as I can.” I bend to kiss her forehead.

She tips her face up to meet me for a tender, heartfelt kiss. Once I’ve gathered everything I need, I head for the door. I stop and turn on my heel.

“Remember. Text me. I’m here for you even if I’m far away.”