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“If it means anything,” I told him, “I’m crazy about her. I’d do anything for her.”

“Of course that means something,” he said and flashed a real smile. Then the smile fell away. “Cassidy has always been the gentlest of my girls. And the one I worry over the most for that very reason.”

“I’d never order a father not to worry,” I said. “And you’re right about Cassie. I’ve never met anyone with such a gentle heart. But she’s also strong. And wise. Believe me, Cord, your daughter can hold her own.”

“I’m glad to hear it.”

I held out my hand. “I’ll always be good to her. I swear.”

He returned my handshake firmly. A little too firmly. “I know you will, Curtis.”

Brecken poked his head out the door. “There you are.” Then he made a face. “Shit, it’s hot out here.”

“Language,” I warned automatically and Cord laughed.

“I’ll see you at work tomorrow, Curtis,” he said, picking up his tools and returning his attention to the block of wood.

“See you tomorrow, Cord,” I said.

Right before I closed the door behind me I heard the crack of metal as Cord resumed chipping away at the wood block. We’d be okay, him and me. I didn’t ever intend to give him a reason to doubt that I was worthy of his daughter.

Now that Cord and I had sorted things out, I needed to have another talk, this one with the brother who was waiting for me to take him home.

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