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I shivered as I turned back around.
“Don’t worry. I’m not interested in hurting defenseless animals in the name of sport.”
I relaxed again. “Can’t say I’m sad about that.”
“Would it be a deal breaker?”
“Probably.”
He huffed out a laugh against my hair. “Good to know. I like a woman who stands by her values.”
The path opened up to a vibrant green lawn, but it didn’t look like the usual yard. Being a city girl, I couldn’t say I knew much about the different grasses out there in the world, but I had a feeling it was similar to the sweet grass Storm had been munching on by the watering hole.
Beckett Manning was a thoughtful man about the things that were important to him. His horse definitely seemed to be high on the list.
The closer we got to his place, the more details came into focus. He was definitely right about the stable. It was a mix of wrought iron and cherry stained wood much like the lower level of his house. Behind the stables was a triple car garage and gravel drive.
I couldn’t imagine the shack he spoke of underneath all the improvements. It was somehow cozy and masculine at the same time. It also felt like a space out of time. Much like the day as a whole.
He slid off Storm and reached for me. “I have to rub him down. It’s been a lot of activity today.”
“That’s okay.”
He slid his hand down my flank and gripped my ass. “You can head inside. I’ll be right after you.”
I arched a brow at him. “What if I poke around?”
“You could.” He lowered his mouth to mine. “Or you could find something better to do.”
I grinned against his lips. “Oh, really? Like what? Hop in your bed naked?”
His grip increased, lifting me onto my toes. “That’s an option.”
I’d tastefully been undressed a time or two, but sat there waiting? No, that was definitely not something I’d ever thought to do.
His gaze went dark, his blue eyes glittering under the shade from his jet-black cowboy hat. “Now I’m imagining this soft skin on my sheets, and I think I should retract that request. In fact, I should probably quickly go change my sheets and beg forgiveness for any messes in my house.”
A giggle bubbled up and out of my chest. “I like the way you smell.”
He lifted me off my toes and up until I wrapped my legs around his waist with a squeak. “I’m a farmer, Helena.”
“One who knows what a shower is for, I’m sure.”
“I’ll give you that. But there’s only been me in that bed for a long time.”
I gripped his shoulders. “Now you’re telling fibs.”
“I don’t bring women home.”
The way he said it made my smile fall away. “And you’re bringing me home?”
“I am.”
“And you’re okay with that?”
“No boundaries, remember? That house has been my sanctuary for a long time. Family is different, but…”
I swallowed. “Second floor only,” I whispered.
