Page 54 of Loving Justice

She took off for the pasture and her husband.

She walked through the tall reeds, which brushed against her boots, and the wind gently caressed her bare shoulders. The moment Jinx saw her, his eyes widened slightly, and then a smile erupted over his lush mouth.

He didn’t remove his gaze from her as she approached. Bits and pieces of hay were stuck in his hair and on his body. The waistband of his jeans settled low on his lean hips.

Seconds passed as their gazes locked.

Finally, she asked, “Why aren’t you out celebrating with the crew?”

She saw his throat bob as if his words were lost, but he found them. “I didn’t feel up to a night at Mav’s.”

She scanned the land to the front door of the farmhouse. Everything was quiet.

She met his gaze again. The day's anger and frustration had formed a crescendo inside her. She might do something she would regret later, but for now, she wanted to connect with him.

“There’s something between us,” she said.

He blinked. “I don’t think I’m following.”

“I realize I have feelings for you?” She held her chin steadily.

One corner of his mouth lifted. “Justice—”

“Not yet, cowboy. I’m not finished. I want us to help raise the baby together. I’m your partner.”

“Okay…” his words trailed off with a clearing of his throat. “What changed your mind?”

“It’s not what changed my mind but what made me realize I’m a lucky woman. I’m happy. With you. With Ilene. I want us to build a life together. A home.”

His smile widened.

It was refreshing to see a man as sexy and handsome as Jinx being vulnerable. Most men who were this good-looking tended to be overly confident, like Kent.

“Now can I say something?” he asked, his eyes full of mischief.

“No, not yet. There’s still more I need to say. I’m attracted to you.” Tonight, she wasn’t holding anything back.

Jinx swiped his gaze around him, laughing, but he stayed quiet.

“I’ve missed you.”

“Now?” One brow popped up.

“If you must,” she teased.

He crossed the distance. He wrapped his arms around her waist and swung her around. “You don’t know how long I’ve wanted to hear those words.” She pressed her fingers into his warm, sweaty skin.

“Be careful. Your leg.”

“It’s okay. You’re lighter than a bale of hay.” He let her slide down his body until they were face to face. He held her there.

“Hardly.” She plucked a piece of hay off his cheek. “Put me down, cowboy.”

At her request, he lowered her to her feet. “What do we do now?”

She took his hand. “Come with me.” She guided him toward the barn as more light disappeared from the sky. “I want to show you something.”

“The barn?”

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