Page 31 of Stay Wild Darlin’

My cheeks went hot, and I cleared my throat, scrambling for a quick topic change. “So, uh . . . thrift stores,” I blurted out. “Which one around here is best?”

They launched into a debate—Harleigh championing the place across from the old theater for its hidden furniture gems, while Fable was dead set on a little hole-in-the-wall near the highway exit. I was nodding along to their back-and-forth when my phone dinged. Glancing down, I tried to keep at least one ear on their argument.

Pizza delivered. Left some in the fridge for you.

Look at you, leaving me treats like I’m a stray you’re trying to win over. Very effective.

Just tryin’ to keep the nanny alive and happy.

I smiled and bit my cheek.

You’ll have to do better than cold pizza if you’re trying to win me over.

Damn. Tough crowd.

How’s the bar?

I snorted and quickly covered my mouth, glancing at Fable and Harleigh to make sure neither of them had heard me. They were still deep in debate over which thrift store had the best hidden gems.

You know I’m here?

Small town, darlin’.

Well, in that case, you’ll be pleased to know I’m behaving.

Fable and Harleigh showed up, so I’ve got backup. No need to worry.

Still gonna worry. That’s kind of my thing.

I smiled at the screen, heart annoyingly soft.

Thanks for the pizza, by the way. That was sweet.

Don’t go tellin’ everyone. I’ve got a reputation to keep.

It’s safe with me. It might’ve earned you a few brownie points.

Damn. Should’ve gotten brownies instead.

I laughed quietly, tucking my phone close like it might give away too much.

Next time.

Deal. I’ve got Cora tomorrow morning. Sleep in and get home safe, Poppy.

Always. Night, Dalton.

I slipped my phone back into my bag, trying to wipe the dumb grin off my face before Harleigh or Fable caught it.

“So,” I said, turning to them like I hadn’t been texting the guy whose fridge I currently shared, “you were saying something about the thrift store near the highway?”

Fable perked up instantly. “Yes. It looks like a dump on the outside, but if you dig, you’ll find the best stuff. I got a vintage denim jacket there for five bucks. Total steal.”

I laughed and nodded as I half listened. I tried to focus, but my mind kept tugging me back to a fridge full of leftover pizza and a text from him.

Dalton.

My boss.