Page 11 of The Darkest Knight

“Actually, I did have a small baggie of her food, but only enough for today.” She smiled, grateful for his consideration after having such a rough start during their first meeting. “Thank you. I guess I didn’t think far enough ahead.” She took the two bags and held them against her chest.

“No problem. I hope the accommodations are to your liking. If you need anything, just let me know.” He seemed as awkward as she felt. Apparently neither of them were the most comfortable in social situations.

“Everything is good. Shower is great. In fact, Abby has made herself right at home.” She pointed to the dog who was curled up at the end of the couch.

“Warning. If you use the trash can outside the back door, make sure the lid is on tight or you’ll have visitors. Some you might not want.”

“Thanks for the head’s up. I guess it’s obvious that I’m a city girl.”

“Just a tad.” He took a short step back. “Well then, I’ll talk to you later.” He started across the porch, but something stopped him. He turned back. “Do you eat steak?”

“Uh, I’ve been known to on occasion.”

He tore a hand through his hair, sending waves popping out over the black silk mass. She found his vulnerability refreshing for a man who seemed so comfortable and confident in his skin. “I ain’t much of a cook, but I can do up a steak okay. If you can be over at my place by six, I’ll have enough to share.”

She smiled. Although she should steer clear of him, this would give her some more time to talk to him about the project. She accepted his offer and he left.

Closing the door, she turned to find Abby staring at her inquisitively. She swore that the dog could understand what was going on around her. Many times she felt more like her friend than her service animal. In fact, Abby was her only friend. Iraq had changed her and the friends she had before weren’t her friends when she came back. It was as if Reese had unzipped her outer skin and stepped out a new person, not caring about the things she once did, like the newest trends in fashion or what boy she’d kiss next. Those things were meaningless when compared to the destruction she witnessed.

Petting the dog on the head, Reese poured some of the dog food into a bowl and water in a plastic container, then sat down to nibble at her own lunch. The ham sandwich tasted delicious, but she wasn’t very hungry so she covered it back up and placed it into the refrigerator for later.

Going to the window, she looked out spotting her new ‘landlord’ walking across the grass toward a barn, Spike followed him close behind with his tongue hanging out. The man had a sense of mystery about him and her curiosity elevated, but admiring the local hottie wasn’t why she’d come here. She wanted—needed—to convince him, but she had to be careful. A man like Seth Knight couldn’t be forced or pressured to see things one way unless he chose to. This was a fragile circumstance and had to be handled with care.

He stood at the wooden fence and a beautiful mare with a shiny coat and long dark mane came trotting up to him, hanging her head over the top rail. He rewarded her with a scratch and rub…and an apple that he must have picked from one of the apple trees they’d passed on their way to the cabin.

She wasn’t sure how long she’d stood there staring, but when he looked over his shoulder she jumped back from the window, her heart racing. Had he seen her? Get yourself together.

How, when tall, dark and mysterious lingered right outside of her doorstep?

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