Page 38 of The Cowboy’s Forever Promise

“Why?”

June touched his arm. “Just do it. Are you taking her to the dance Saturday night?”

Nodding, he got into his truck. Truth be told, he was ticked off.

“Oh,” June said as he opened a window, “one more thing?”

“Just one more?” he sighed.

“We foster kids rarely do what we’re told. You’ll have to find another way.” And with a wave, she ran back to her husband.

Indignant, Carson turned around and drove back to his house. George, who picked up on his mood, whimpered and moved closer. Sighing, Carson stroked the dog’s head. “It’s just you and me buddy.”

At least he wasn’t completely alone anymore, he had George. They’d be fine.

Rubbing his chest where a strange emptiness had opened up, he drove back home.

*

Tuesday night, Abby couldn’t settle down. Restless, she rolled around on her bed. It was still early, barely eight o’clock, but she’d thought she’d fall asleep immediately; last night, she’d barely slept, it had been a busy day and she was bone tired. Every time she closed her eyes, though, there was Carson with his one blue and one brown eye, both darkened by desire. She was aching for his touch, his voice, his warm presence, her whole body was on fire.

She checked her phone. Again. No text from Carson. What did she expect? She’d left without telling him, he was probably fed up with her.

By nine o’clock, she gave up and got up, made her bed, and packed her bag. What Annie would say, she didn’t know, but at this point she didn’t really care. Her stay until Sunday was paid for, but right now she wanted to be with Carson. She was returning to Seattle on Sunday. There were only a few days left and those she wanted … needed to spend with Carson.

What if he was out on another date? Or didn’t want to open the door for her? Or …? Picking up the small suitcase, the bags with new clothes, and her handbag, she headed downstairs. There was no way she’d know if she didn’t go.

Annie was coming out of the kitchen as Abby reached the bottom of the stairs.

Annie’s eyes fell to her luggage and she smiled. “I assume you’re moving to the ranch?”

“I am. I’m sorry …”

“Don’t even think about it. I’ll refund you for the days you won’t be here.”

“Please don’t. I may come back.”

Opening her arms, Annie gave her a hug. “I’ll keep your room for you. And if ever you want to visit in the future, just let me know.”

“Thanks, Annie. I’ll see you on Thursday night at the book launch.”

“Of course. I think the whole of Marietta will be there. The news that June’s publicist didn’t organize a caterer has spread all over town and everyone will bring something.”

“Really?”

“That’s how Marietta works,” Annie grinned. “I won’t tell you about all the rumors …”

“Oh, I’ve heard,” Abby grimaced.

“And you haven’t freaked out?”

“Oh, I’m freaking out, but fortunately I won’t be around for much longer.”

“Let me help you with your bags,” Annie offered.

“It’s fine, really. I spent way too much on clothes on Monday. Shopping with those Weston gals is expensive!”

“But so much fun.” Annie grinned as she opened the front door.