Page 124 of The Rogue

Being friendly with his staff.

“Season’s changin’, Tess. Gonna need to switch that up to warm cider soon.” Max tips his hat and races down the field. “Catch ya later.”

“But I don’t know how to make cider,” I mutter.

“Grocery store.” Levi winks. “They’ll never know.”

“Baby, I’ve got nothin’ but time on my hands. I’m going to learn to make it.”

He wraps strong arms around me and dips his head with a soft kiss.

I groan. “Ugh. You smell like horse.”

“You love the smell of horse.”

I scowl at the beast behind him. “Notthatone.”

He laughs and brings him over. “That’s does it. You two are going to learn to get along. Even if I have to leave you in a room to work out your differences.”

I fold my arms and turn away. “Never.”

Levi lifts my chin. “What’s botherin’ you? Why you so grouchy?”

“I'mbored. I miss Jackson.” I run my hand up his arm. “I miss our sunrise mornings.”

“It’s gettin’ a little chilly for that, Whiskey. Things are pretty busy now, but after the fall festival, we could have a new morning ritual.”

“Like what?” I pout.

He wraps his arms around me from behind. “Like lighting up the fireplace. Workin’ out together downstairs.”

I twist my head back. “You callin’ me fat?”

“What? No.”

“I’ve just been bloated.”

“We both like working out. It was just a suggestion, woman.”

I’m on the verge of tears, and I don’t understand it. All I know is this stupid horse—as beautiful and innocent as it may be—is making me ill.

“Can I leave these out here for the boys? I’m going to go start dinner earlier. I need to neutralize this smell with fresh herbs.”

He grins like he knows something I don’t. “Alright.”

I turn to head up the steps, but he twists me back, pulling me against his warm chest. “Let’s put Jackson to bed early tonight and watch a movie in bed.”

“Hmm…” I stroke his chest. “Maybe some wine?”

He narrows his eyes. “Or...strawberries.” He kisses the tip of my nose.

I purse my lips. But then again, that does sound pretty good. “Deal.”

Charlie waves to me from the driver’s seat of her SUV.

I wave back. “Morning. He’ll be right out. Come on, Jackson. Your ride’s here.”

With his brick of a backpack, he races out the door. “See you later, Tessa. Don’t watch any Knight Rider without me.”

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