Page 71 of Stables

How do I fix this?

“The work won’t start until next week. Mason wants me up there for dinner so we can plan things out. That might not be so bad? Then you tell me if you want to go back. He’s done it without me before.” I shrug, hoping that she understands that her comfort is more valuable to me than chasing cattle in the hot sun.

Her nod is short, and she stands quickly to pick up the mostly full containers of food. One by one, she empties them into smaller portions and begins putting them into either the fridge or freezer.

Shit, she’s saving them.

Finances must be tighter than she’s letting on.

How has she been doing this by herself?

It doesn’t matter. She won’t have to anymore. I just need to convince her to let me help.

Baby steps.

“Dinner would be fine.” She turns far enough to give me a weak smile before returning her focus on the leftovers.

I’m drawn to her strength, it pulls me from the table to move behind her.

But when my palms touch her arms, there’s a flinch.

It’s almost imperceptible.

She needs more time.

I’m tempted to pull her to me, then kiss away the fear that’s shutting her down. But I step away instead. “I’m proud of you,” I say quietly.

“All done.” Paisley raises her arms and clinches her fingers towards me.

I’m grateful for the distraction. “Let’s clean up your hands.” Grabbing a damp washcloth, I wipe her mess as I’ve seen Char do it, then scoop her out of her high chair to let her loose on the toys in the living room.

When I glance at Char, I catch the tears streaking her cheeks.

What the hell should I do?

That asshole broke her in ways I’ll never know.

Patience. She deserves it.

I know she’s worth the wait.

Chapter 19

Char

I’m so stupid. Dixonis the best thing that’s ever happened to me, and yet I keep feeling like I’m throwing up these ridiculous barriers.

Shouldn’t I be happy he wants to introduce me to his family?

But what do I do if I like them, and then he decides he doesn’t want me?

Maybe they’ll show him that I’m a bad choice.

I mean, who wants a woman with a kid and a crazy ex?

Dixon doesn’t deserve that kind of person.

Yet the thought of him with anyone else makes me feel nauseous.

---