AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Really?” Zane says. “I’m shaking in my boots. If I was wearing any, that is.”
Artie obeys me by approaching Zane and licking his bare feet.
“Help me. I’m so scared.”
His deadpan tone makes me bite my lip to hide an emerging smile. “Hey, be careful. Dogs can sense fear. Just saying.”
“I’d rather not suffer death by lick.”
That breaks the ice. We both chuckle lightly.
Zane has a great smile, open and friendly. “I’m sorry I scared you.”
“I apologize for the frosty reception. You took me by surprise, that’s all. I’m Mila. Mila Westerman.”
“Mila,” he nods. “So, you’re the caretaker while Ryker’s gone, huh?”
Ugh. “Well, I mean, yes... but I’m also Ryker’s... girlfriend.” Why do those words bumble out of my mouth?
His head pulls back, like someone slapped him. He conceals his reaction quickly, but I know I surprised him and I wonder at his response.
He clears his throat. “Why the hesitation?” he asks coolly, acting as though he didn’t react to my words.
Did I imagine his physical shock? Of course, I did.
He’s perceptive and I’m far too transparent. Does everything I do and say scream uncertainty?
Because it’s true. I’m uncertain of Ryker and I hate that the tiny seed of discontent is there, like grit in my eye.
“There was no hesitation. It’s just a little complicated,” I lie.
“May I ask why?”
“It’s always complicated when a couple is talking marriage.”
No physical reaction this time. As a matter of fact, he could be made of stone. “Is it?”
“Of course. It’s a huge decision, one that effects the rest of your life.” Why am I explaining myself?
His eyes drop to the sparkly ring on my finger. His eyebrows shoot into his forehead, a small pierce in his emotional armor. “Hold on. You’re engaged? To Ryker?”
I let out my breath and it emerges as a bit of a huff. This has turned into a sore subject. So many people I work with have asked me if I’m engaged because my ring is sitting on my left ring finger, exactly where Ryker placed it. It’s embarrassing to explain the details every single time. I’ve been thinking about changing it for days.
Now is the time.
I remove it and place it on my right ring finger. “It’s a promise ring. We’re not engaged yet,” I say, subdued.
His eyes search mine, seeing far more than I want him to see.
“Huh. A lot has happened while I’ve been gone. Regardless, Ryker’s a lucky man.”
I look down at the ground. “Thank you.”
I feel like such a fraud representing myself as Ryker’s girlfriend. I don’t think I’ll carry that title for much longer.
The thought has invaded my senses and it won’t leave me alone.
chapter seven
