Page 8 of Maverick

“Never been married?” Parker pressed.

“No. My job keeps me pretty busy,” Maverick explained with a shrug.

“I can’t remember the last time I went on a date,” Parker admitted with a sad smile.

“Same here. I used to go to Dewey’s sometimes, but not recently.”

“I went there last month. Shay invited me to join a group of women for a night out. It was a lot of fun, and I met some amazing women.”

Maverick smiled knowingly. “I’ve heard about those girls’ night out gatherings.”

Parker laughed. “I had a blast. I’m going this month too. Shay said they go once a month unless the weather’s bad.”

Maverick shook his head. “I’m surprised so many women get along.”

“Isn’t that the truth?”

After they finished eating, they gathered up the trash, tossed it into the can, then went back down to unload the rest of the boxes.

Chapter Two

Maverick gently set the heavy box on the smooth, granite counter of the kitchen and turned to head back out when Parker entered. His gaze drifted down to the small but noticeable sweat stain on her sports bra, between the curves of her breasts. Quickly averting his eyes before she caught him staring. He cleared his throat.

Parker let out a sigh as she set the box down on the plush sofa and looked around at the still-packed boxes that littered the room.

“I will never get these unpacked,” she said with a hint of frustration in her voice.

“Well, they’re here now, so you can take your time with that,” Maverick replied with a smile.

Parker chuckled. “I can’t do that. It would drive me crazy.”

Maverick laughed. “You don’t have to rush, though.”

“True, but trust me, I will,” she said with a grin.

“I should get going. I have to mow my lawn,” Maverick said, gesturing toward the door.

“I’m glad I don’t have to worry about that,” Parker said with a grateful smile.

“Yeah, it’s hot work,” Maverick agreed. “But by the time I get home, the sun will be setting and maybe it will cool down.” He strode toward the door, his boots thudding against the hardwood floor.

“Thank you so much for your help,” Parker called after him.

“You’re very welcome,” he replied over his shoulder.

As he opened the door, Maverick paused for a moment before turning back to look at Parker with a small smile playing on his lips.

“Maybe we could get a cup of coffee sometime,” he suggested.

Parker’s smile widened. “I’d like that.”

He grinned in return. “I would too. Could I get your number?”

“Sure,” Parker replied, giving him her number. Maverick quickly put it into his phone before tucking it back into his pocket.

After touching the brim of his hat, he walked down the steps and made his way to his truck. Glancing up at Parker as she stood on the stoop, he couldn’t help but grin before driving away toward home.

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