AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“I love what I do, the freedom, making sure we keep the land safe for the people of the United States to use. It’s gratifying.”
“Wow, that’s so nice. So why no girlfriend?”
He chuckled. “I’m unlucky in love,” he said, glancing at her.
“So there was someone.”
“Yes, there was someone.”
“Anyone I know?”
“I don’t think so. She’s not from around here. Another agent. She got involved with a rancher in Nevada, and they ended up getting married.”
“Oh, I’m sorry.”
“You don’t have to be sorry. It was for the best. She wanted a different life than I want.”
“And what do you want?”
They’d reached his car, a giant black SUV. “Here we are,” he said, unlocking the passenger door and opening it. He waited for her to get in, pulled the seatbelt out and handed it to her, and then shut the door. The act got Calista’s attention; she hadn’t had a man open a door for her in a long time, let alone hold it for her and close it, too.
He got in and buckled up, starting the car. “What do I want? Pretty much what you have. Kids. Friends. A home. My job contradicts all that. I might have to think about a change of venue if I want a wife and kids.”
“How often are you gone?”
“Well, here it is Saturday, and I’m three hours from home, looking for horses.”
“Okay, I understand.”
“Are you happy with your life?”
She looked out the window, at the mossy cypress trees, the blue sky she could barely see in between the treetops.
“I’m lonely,” she said. “Is that too honest? I miss having companionship. I have my children, but they can only fulfill so much. Since Alphé and Katrina got together, it’s been better. They always include me in everything they do. Katrina never acts like I’m intruding. But eventually, I have to find my own way. The chemistry between them is so strong, I imagine they go off and are together making love, and I’m at home in my lonesome bed.”
She noticed that when she talked, he leaned a little closer to her, trying to hear every word she said.
“Now it’s my turn to be sorry,” he replied, genuinely feeling empathy for her. “I can’t imagine being a single parent.”
She looked at him and laughed. “We are a sorry pair.”
He nodded, agreeing. “Will you have dinner with me tonight?”
“Yes. Is that definitive enough? But it will have to be at my house because my kids will be home. Are you okay with that?”
“Of course. I’m surprised you’ll expose them to a man. Most women won’t do that.”
“I’ve never done it before, that’s why. I’ve never been on a date since Rodney died.”
“Wow, that’s a long time to be alone.”
“Why? When did your girlfriend leave you?”
“About four years ago.”
“Well, I rest my case,” Calista said, and they laughed out loud.
“Where’s your house?”
