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What could’ve happened that was so bad to inspire this level of animosity? I hesitate before trying to press a little harder.
“So, telling me about Garry is bad because…?”
“If he finds out that we told you a fraction of the things he’s done or is capable of, you could go missing.”
I wait for Jason to shoot me a smile that tells me he’s joking or laugh, but none of that comes. Instead, his hands tighten on the wheel and his shoulders stiffen.
“You really mean that, don’t you?”
Jason shoots me a quick glance. “Yes. By keeping things from you, we’re protecting you. I promise.”
Oh. I suck in a shaky breath to steady my nerves. Ok, well, if he’s not willing to share anything about Garry, then I need to let it drop. It’s none of my business anyway.
“What will you do to help your mom at the ranch?” I ask, changing gears slightly.
The tension that had stiffened Jason’s shoulders ebbs away, allowing them to sag.
“So my parents work as on-site veterinarians on the Gipson ranch. Growing up, I watched how my parents tended to the animals and learned how to treat them accordingly. Since I know what I’m doing, Garry trusts me enough to act as a stand-in vet occasionally. I’ll help them check over the animals, take notes on any concerns I find, adjust feeding regimens, and all that fun stuff.” A small smile comes and goes before Jason continues. “I hate helping Garry, but it’s experience that looks good on a résumé and being able to help my parents is a nice benefit. I’m hoping one day soon, I’ll be able to get them out of there.”
There is a shift as he talks about his parents. A warmth that isn’t there usually. My heart flutters. I don’t even have it in me to scold myself. It’s nice to see people talk about their parents with fondness rather than hatred. Growing up, I heard horror stories from other foster kids about their parents before they ended up in the system.
“So, are you becoming a veterinarian to help your parents? Or do you actually like working with animals?”
A smile returns to Jason’s mouth.
“Animals are amazing. Much better than people in my opinion. I’m excited to become a vet. The work is going to be hard, but totally worth it. After this spring semester, I’ll start my residency on the Gipson ranch. It won’t be too much longer until I’m licensed.” He pauses before adding, “It also helps my parents, so it’s kind of a win-win. This is my last year actually in a classroom.”
The sensible comment mixed with that smile must be messing with my thoughts because my mouth opens before my brain can comprehend what I’m about to say,
“Well, I can cook a few meals for you to take to your parents, so they don’t have to worry about food while they juggle work and recovery. I have this great family recipe for—”
By the time I’ve processed the words, it’s too late. They’re out there, drifting into the universe. I slam my mouth shut and press my lips together. Before I can take it back, Jason is shooting me a smoldering look.
“My parents willlovea home cooked meal.”
I make a face. “Scratch everything I just said. I’m sorry I even said anything. I forgot who I was talking to.”
“Too late, you can’t take it back.”
“Yes I can!”
“You’re a caring doll, aren’t you?” he teases as he pulls into my apartment complex and heads toward my street. “Beautiful, strong-willed, and a little mouthy but—”
“Wait!” I yelp, startling him enough that he hits the brakes a little too hard. We both are flung forward. “Sorry, I need to grab something from my car. You can pull into the visitor center.”
“Your car’s in the visitor center?” Jason questions, but does as requested.
“Yeah, suspension is shot, so I’m avoiding the speed bumps in the community,” I use the lie I gave Grant earlier, knowing that they’ll compare notes at some point.
Jason nods and comes to a stop. As I climb out, he says, “I’ll expect to pick up that meal tomorrow, dollie. If not, there will be hell to pay. Make a big batch of whatever, none of us are picky eaters.”
As I watch him pull away, I quietly berate myself for being so freaking stupid. Well, if I don’t want to die from multiple orgasms, I guess a trip to the grocery store is needed. Rather than head home, I climb into my car and head out.
It’s going to be a long night.
Eighteen
The next day, I’m beyond exhausted.
