Page 46 of Wed to You

“’Kay.” His lids closed the rest of the way.

Chelsea smiled. “He wore himself out.”

“Me as well.” Jagger shut the door and then turned to her. “I may need a nap too.” He took the stuffed winnings, except her bear, and rounded the SUV to put them in the back. He shut the back hatch and then returned to the driver’s side where Chelsea was watching Kaden sleep.

“Today was nice.” Despite the awkwardness of their picnic and dealing with Lexie and Mitch, Chelsea had enjoyed the day. Watching Jagger with Kaden, and witnessing his determination to retain custody, had endeared him to her. He was attentive and loving, yet firm with boundaries when needed, which wasn’t often as Kaden was well behaved.

Jagger smiled. “I’m glad you think so. It worked out as a first date.”

She laughed. He was right. If this had been just the three of them enjoying the day, and not the start of their ruse, it would have been a perfect first date.

“I regret even more that I listened to Mitch.” Jagger reached out and gently tugged on a strand of her hair.

Warmth spread through her body at his words and gesture, but Chelsea fought against it, reminding herself that it wasn’t real. “You managed him pretty well today.”

“He didn’t shoot me.”

“Well, he didn’t have his gun on him.”

“Would you have protected me if he did?”

She cocked her head to the side and pressed a finger over her lips as if she was considering his question. “For Kaden’s sake, yes.”

He laughed. “Speaking of which, I should take him home.”

“Of course. What time should I come tonight?”

“About seven.”

“I’ll be there.”

He studied her for a moment and then stepped closer, leaning his head toward her. “Thank you, Chelsea.”

Up so close, his eyes seemed even bluer. His male scent even more masculine. It was all she could do to keep from sighing. His gaze dropped to her lips, before lifting back to her eyes. For a moment, she thought he was going to kiss her, but then he straightened. “I’ll see you at seven.”

Chelsea swallowed her disappointment. “Seven.”

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