Page 120 of The Making of Marnie Jones

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Showered, clean-shaven, and feeling more human, Jake emerged from the guest bathroom. The low rumble of voices guided him to the kitchen. “Good morning, ladies.”

Olivia’s grin was broad while Marnie's was hesitant. Shy.

His niece handed him a bowl of cereal and a carton of milk.

“We’re headed out to the ranch shortly. You're welcome to join us.”

“Is that appropriate?”

“Of course.” Olivia grinned. “You can come and see me ride.”

He covertly sought Marnie, who gave her approval. The women were both wearing riding gear, including boots. Marnie rocked the look. The clothes fit her nicely and molded to her curves. She was very feminine, and he was very interested. Last night's interlude merely stoked the fire of his need for her.

By the time they finished breakfast, the women had their gear ready to go.

He waited outside for Marnie to set the house alarm and unlock the car door. To his surprise, she handed Olivia the keys before she quickly hopped into the back seat, leaving him to ride shotgun.

Olivia adjusted the driver’s seat to fit her lanky frame, then set each mirror to rights and double-checked everything. Soon she eased the car onto the road.

“How long have you been driving?”

“She qualified for her learner's permit as soon as we came out here. She's been taking lessons with a qualified instructor, and she now drives wherever we go. She's indeed competent.”

Jake didn't miss Olivia beaming at Marnie's praise.

“Have you told her yet?” Olivia hit the turn signal and slowed the car at the stop sign.

“Told her?”

“Told Marnie about your new job.” A tinge of exasperation.

Grinning, he checked over his shoulder. “We had that conversation last night.”

“I invited him to move in with us, if that's okay with you.” At Olivia's momentary loss of concentration, Marnie quickly admonished, “Eyes on the road.” Amusement laced her tone. “Let me guess—you want him to move in?”

Olivia nodded, although with less vigor than before. “Yes, I want Jake to move in.”

“Well, it's settled. The first thing we need to do is buy him a bed he can fit in.”

“I'm more than able to make do with what’s already there.” He didn’t want to wear out his welcome before he even got started.

“Making do and living comfortably are two different things. If you're planning to do a good job reporting on our fair city, you’ll need to get a good night’s sleep.”

He held up his hands in mock surrender. “Okay, a new bed it is.” He sensed her grinning. How would she react if he told her the truth? That he didn't want a new bed because he wanted to share hers. Wishful thinking, but a man could live on hope. She signaled last night he had the right to hope.

Olivia turned onto a winding tree-lined driveway.

The trees were immense and soaring—nothing like this in Toronto. The foliage was lush and bright green, sun speckled on this beautiful morning.

When the ranch house came into view, he appreciated why this place impressed his niece. Hopping from the car, he followed as they rounded the house and moved into the riding area.

Marnie placed her hand on his arm. “We’re going to get the horses. You’re free to wander around. Kennedy's informal.” She walked toward the barn.

He immediately missed the warm press of her hand against his arm. Watching her go, he marveled at how unaware she was of her own allure. She was beautiful, yet never played on her looks.

“Staring is rude, even if the recipient of the attention isn't aware of it.”

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