Page 38 of A Cameo for a Cowgirl

“Thanks, but this is good.”

She pulled out a chair, and repositioned it to face him.

He lifted a brow. “Was there something else?”

Her mouth quirked again. “Maybe that’s it,” she murmured, as if to herself.

“What are you talking about?”

“Nothing.” She shook her head.

Yeah, clearly not nothing.

“So, you’re okay? Nothing else I can get you?”

“I’m okay, and thanks, I’ll be fine.”

“Is it okay if I pass that on to Hannah and the others? They’ve all been worried about you.”

All except one of them, who clearly did not care for him, seeing she hadn’t even thanked him, let alone bothered to check on his welfare. Heck, even Hector and Chuck, the security guards, had stopped by and offered their thoughts and prayers for a swift recovery.

“Um, yeah, go for it. But I’d appreciate it if you could remind your friends not to say anything about me being on the show.”

“Sure thing.” She nodded, and got up, pushed his chair back into position, tucked under the small dining table for two. “I should probably go, but I’m glad you’re doing okay.”

“Thanks for checking in.”

“Of course. I know Jess will be glad too. Oh, and my parents said to say they’re praying for you.”

“Really?” He’d only met them briefly, but they came across as genuine, salt-of-the-earth people.

She nodded. “And even though she might not have said it to you, I know Cassie is grateful for your help.”

“Mm.” He’d believe it when he saw it. Which would likely be parked right next door to never.

“Seriously, she is. She said so this morning.” She grinned again. “Among other things.”

He knew that smile was bait, designed to make him bite. But no. He wouldn’t do it. He wouldn’t—

“What did she say?”

“Ha!” Poppy clapped her hands. “I knew you’d want to know.” She moved to the door.

“What? You can’t just say something like that and then leave.”

“Can’t I?” She opened the door.

Maybe she thought it was charming, but he was too tired and grumpy to be amused. “Have I done something to offend her? I really don’t know what I’ve done wrong.”

“You know, I’m not sure that she knows either. But if it helps, let’s just say she’s been a little stressed with everything lately.”

“She’s had a lot going on.”

“She always does. She’s a machine. She really needs to learn to relax. And now she’s trying to do stock take and get the figures for the accountant.” Her nose wrinkled. “Poor thing hates math like I do.”

His heart flickered. “Maybe I could help. I’m okay with figures.”

She studied him, then shrugged. “I can mention it to her. But if I were you, the place I’d really be looking for answers that will help is in that book right there.”

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