Page 38 of Seized by the Lawman

“That’s what I said.” Nix uncapped his bottle and brought it to his lips and drank half of it.

Kace shook his head. “What the hell happened? Are you so dumb that you didn’t use a condom?”

“I used one. It must have been defected.”

“Are you sure, man?”

“That it was defected?” Nix looked at his brother.

“No, that you’re the father. You know, some chicks lie about that shit.”

“Maybe the women you date would, but I know Melly. She wouldn’t lie.”

Kace shifted, his large frame almost too large for the chair. “Wow. At least you know mom and dad will be happy. When are you telling them?”

Nix swiped his hand down his jaw. “I just found out myself. I need to get my bearings first.”

“Why do you look like someone pissed in your water? What happened? Is she keeping it?”

“She told me she wanted me to be a part of the baby’s life, so yeah, she is. However, I’m not sure if she’s testing me or what because she told me I didn’t have to come back to the ranch if I chose not to.”

“Okay, I’m confused. She told you about the baby, wants you to be a part of the kid’s life, but she’s giving you the choice?” One thick brow popped up over his curious eyes.

“Yeah, pretty much. She told me because she wanted me to understand why the land means so much to her. Why she wants to plant some roots.”

“Did you tell her everything? That her dad is your boss and this was an assignment?”

Nix shifted, hearing the wood creak and crack in resistance. “No. I didn’t get the chance, and not that I’m in a hurry. If she finds out that I work for her dad, she’s going to want to shoot me. Not to mention, I almost let it slip that Carson has cancer. He asked me not to say anything, but damn, this is a big secret. I can’t be angry at her for not telling me about the baby when I have a few of my own. She has the right to know that her dad won’t be here forever. They have a lot of issues between them that need resolved.”

“Then tell her.”

“And risk pissing off Carson?”

“Hell, bro, you’re funny. Once the man finds out you’ve impregnated his daughter, he’s going to tie you up by your toes.” Kace chuckled and slapped Nix on the arm.

His brother had a point. Either way, he was dead meat. “I guess I’m backed against the wall.”

“Here’s an important question, bro. You love her?”

Nix blinked. “I-I don’t know.”

“I think you do. Be honest with yourself.”

Looking into the orangish-blue sky as the sun started to set, Nix soaked in Kace’s words. “Yeah, I do. I didn’t want to, but I’m lost.”

“Does she love you?”

“Now that’s a question I can’t answer.”

Neither said a word for the longest time. Finally, Kace said, “You love her and she’s carrying your kid. As far as I see things you’re already eyeball deep in this with her. If I was in your shoes, I’d be a man and tell Carson the truth. Hell, he might want to knock your head off your shoulders, but at least he can’t deny that you’re an honest bastard. He’ll have to get used to seeing your face because you’re the father of his grandchild. One way or another, you’re going to be a father.”

“Fuck, I don’ know what to do. I feel like no matter which way I turn, I’m going to piss someone off.” Nix drank his beer down.

Kace stood and looked down at Nix intently. “Can’t go too wrong with telling the truth. Keep that in mind and it’ll all work itself out.

Long after Kace went inside, Nix sat on the porch until he couldn’t think straight. He knew what he’d have to do.

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