Irritated with these kinds of thoughts, he got up to pour himself another cup of coffee, then returned to the table. He didnt want to think about how sweet she smelled or how her lips were just full enough to tempt a man.
Shed given no indication that she might be up for a short, reckless affair to pass the time until she got on the bus out of town. And the last thing he wanted was any kind of an emotional entanglement with any woman. Shed be gone soon, and that was that.
It was just after three when George finally got up from the table. Its been a real pleasure, he said and smiled at Jane. Theres nothing nicer than spending a snowy afternoon in the company of a beautiful woman. Unfortunately, at my age, a good nap is also a pleasant way to spend the afternoon, and Im past due mine.
She offered him a sunny smile. Thank you for the pie, George. Your wife was right. It was the best Ive ever eaten, she replied.
George beamed as if kissed by an angel.
George, have you mentioned to anyone that Im here? Jane asked.
Cant say I have. George scratched the top of his head. Havent talked to anyone except Dalton since this storm moved in.
I would appreciate it if you wouldnt mention it to anyone. She flashed him a bright smile. Im kind of hiding out from somebody.
Georges eyes lit up. Ah, a woman of mystery. Your secret is safe with me. He started to turn to head out the way he had come, but paused and pointed to the window. Would you look at that?
Both Dalton and Jane looked through the window where the snow had
finally stopped and the sun peeked out from behind the last lingering gray clouds.
Chapter 4
Doubtful, he replied.
For the past hour theyd heard the sounds of plows starting the storm cleanup and each grind of gears had been like music to her ears. She just hoped and prayed she got out of there before Sheriff Brandon Sinclair somehow discovered where she was.
Although most of the locals who have plows will be out and have our streets cleaned, it will probably be at least another day or so before the highways are completely cleared and the bus can show up. He gazed at her curiously. Surely you cant be afraid that your boyfriend will find you here. You didnt know you were going to be here, so how could he know?
Logically, I know that, but emotionally, I just have this terrible need to get out of town, to get as far away as possible, she replied. I just want to stay safe.
I told you that youd be safe here, he said. When that bus comes, Ill personally see you safely aboard and in the meantime nobody is going to harm you while youre in my home.
A new burst of gratitude filled her. Shed taken a terrible chance coming into the home of a stranger, but Dalton had proven himself to be nothing other than a good, honorable man. She leaned back on the sofa. So, what do you do when you arent bodyguarding? she asked. Shed been in his home for twenty-four hours but didnt really know anything about him.
I mentioned before I like to read, and when the weathers nice I do a little work at the family ranch.
Family ranch? She could easily imagine him, long legs astride a powerful horse, a cowboy hat pulled down low over his brow.
My dad has a huge ranch north of town. Its become something of a family compound. My brother Tanner has a house on the property, and Clay and his wife, Libby, have been talking about building there.
Hmm, that sounds nice. It must be wonderful to have such a close, loving family unit. I used to wonder what it would be like to have a whole mess of siblings.
He laughed, a deep low sound that warmed her. Believe me, its not as wonderful as it sounds. You wait in line for the bathroom, you wait to be served at the table, you share everything youre given and theres incessant noise.
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