Page 45 of Chasing Liberty

“Let me guess. Hold the egg in the spoon. Pass the egg carefully to the other spoon. And book it to the end of the line while still holding your egg. Doesn’t sound too complicated if you ask me.”

She lifted her chin, narrowing her eyes on him. “Take this seriously. I want that jar of pinecones.”

He chuckled. “Does this have something to do with the tie for the pie contest?”

“It has everything to do with the tie. We need to win this.”

“Liberty, it’s just a race for fun.”

“Yeah, fun to win.”

He gave his head a little shake. “I don’t like that look in your eye.”

“What look?”

“Like there’s a demon wanting to get out.”

“Let’s not be too overdramatic.” She sniffed loudly, partly listening to Kaitlynn asking one of the band members if he’d partner with her for the race.

Wyler leaned in and whispered, “I didn’t know you had one of those until lately.”

“What?”

“A jealous streak a mile wide.” His grin developed deep dimples in his cheeks.

“Wrong!” She laid her hands on her hips, pinning him with her gaze.

“There’s nothing between Kaitlynn and me. You have nothing to be concerned about.” He brushed his lips over her cheek.

“Hmph. Well, just for the sake of keeping things real, Kaitlynn seems to think there could be something. By the way. I think I did something I shouldn’t have done.”

“Again?” He lifted a brow over curious eyes. “Should I be troubled?”

“I just informed Kaitlynn that I’m pregnant.” She watched his expression, and she couldn’t read much.

His lips curved into a satisfied grin. “For someone intent on being discreet, you really burst out of seclusion with energy and speed.”

“I was angry. I blurted the news before I thought about the consequences.”

“Sweetheart, it’s okay. I’d like to announce it on the top of the mountain for all to hear if you’d give me permission.” He slipped a tendril of her hair behind her ear. “Stop worrying aboutwhat these people say and focus on being you because you’re something special.”

“Thank you, Wyler.”

“How about we go win you those pinecones?”

Chapter Eleven

“Do you always get this energetic after a win?” Wyler teased.

“On occasion.” She walked on the lit narrow path from the truck to the camper where they would be staying while the bunkhouse was being renovated. “That was amazing. Who knew we could work so well together? Did you see Kaitlynn’s face when she dropped her egg?”

“No, I didn’t.”

The moonlight seemed to cast its blue transparent glow over her, giving her an ethereal appearance. She looked beautiful, so much that it took his breath away. She had her long hair pulled to one side, exposing the feminine slope of her shoulders. He liked the way the sundress draped over her curves and with each sway of her hips the thin fabric tugged against her bottom.

The camper overlooked the winding river. The soft gurgling sound of water gliding over flat stones echoed through the trees. An owl hooted from its high branch while crickets sang and frogs groused by the pond further away.

“This is my favorite time of evening,” she said, spreading her arms as though embracing the world.

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