Page 116 of His Boys to Protect

He'd only just left them a few minutes ago, but Ward couldn't wait for the day to be over so he could get back home to them again.

Ward finally got out onto the country roads, free of traffic lights, and made his way to Vista Robles Winery. He turned onto the property and bypassed the tasting room, then took the dirt road that led to John's office. Ward couldn't help smiling at the view that surrounded him. They didn't have grapes yet, but the vines were full and green, carpeting a landscape that was only broken by the glorious oak trees that dotted the massive property.

John's truck was parked under one of those trees, taking advantage of the shade it would offer. Ward parked his own truck beside it. The day promised to be hot, typical of June in central California. Ward made sure to crack the windows before he shut off the engine and got out.

He strode into the office, not at all surprised to see John already at his desk, scribbling out a to-do list. Ward chuckled. The man had relaxed considerably since Adam had come backinto his life, yet John still had a tendency to get to work early and hit the ground running.

“Morning,” Ward greeted him.

“Morning,” John replied, barely glancing up from his notepad.

Ward eyed him, realizing the man looked stressed.Shit. “John? I'm sorry. I know it was inconvenient, but I really appreciate you letting me have the day off yesterday. I owe you one.”

John set down his pen and waved a hand. “I left you in a lurch here before when I had to go rush off to get Adam,” he said, referring to some drama from about this time last year. “Gotta take care of our boys, right?”

Ward felt some heat creep into his cheeks. He coughed and cleared his throat. “Right.”

John studied him. “Everything okay?”

“Yeah.” Ward pulled out his own chair and turned it around, sinking into it. “Sorry. Just…this is all so new. I'm not used to talking about it yet. Don't tell Adam,” he quickly added.

John frowned and opened his mouth like he was going to askwhy, then breathed a laugh instead. “Because he'll telleveryone. And you're not ready for that.”

“Exactly.”

John nodded. “That's fine. I get it.”

“Thanks.” Ward cleared his throat. “But, um, yeah. Got the boys mostly settled yesterday. That helped out a lot, so thank you again.”

John waved a hand once more, as though silently saying,Don't mention it.

Ward frowned, studying John gain. “I'm here, John. I promise. Whatever you need, I'll make sure we get caught up today–”

“Huh?”

“You look frustrated, is all.”

“Oh.” John shook his head and scrubbed a hand over his face. “No, it's not work. Though, yeah, we do have a lot to do today.” He blew out a breath. “I got home last night to a letter from my renters, notifying me that they're moving out. Ihateinterviewing potential tenants. It's so tedious.” John paused. “You wouldn't happen to be in need of a new place, would you?”

Ward blinked. “Me?” He frowned. “I thought you hated mixing business and personal.”

“I do,” John conceded. “But at least I know you're responsible and dependable.” He paused, then added with a laugh, “Besides, I know where you work.”

Ward chuckled, but it quickly faded as he considered the offer. He'd never seen John's place, but he knew it was out in the country, away from the noise and traffic of town.

Charlie would certainly love that. The boy had already complained about the noisy neighbors and the sirens on the freeway at night. But what about Skylar? He was used to big-city life. Or would the tranquility and isolation be appealing to him?

It was on the tip of his tongue to sayyes, but Ward stopped himself. His life had enough upheaval lately without adding a move into the mix. The same was true for the boys. He was still getting Skylar settled and comfortable in new surroundings. The last thing the boy needed was another change. And as for Charlie? Ward knew Charlie had complaints about the apartment, but what if John's rental was worse?

Ward shook his head. “I appreciate the offer, but it's really not in the cards for me right now.”

John gave him a nod. “I understand. Trust me. I hate change.”

Ward laughed. That was an understatement if there ever was one.

John even joined in with a chuckle. “Still, if you change your mind…”

“I'll be sure to let you know,” Ward agreed.

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