Page 45 of Seized by the Lawman

“Thanks, buddy,” Nix griped.

“Hello, Jamison. How’s life treating you?” Melly gave the man a smile, one that Nix could only wish was directed at him. “How’s your daughter?”

“Very well indeed. I think I’ll go check out the little men’s room.” He excused himself leaving an angry Melly alone with a humored Nix.

God she was beautiful. He dropped his gaze over her blouse that fit nicely against her firm breasts to her dark skinny jeans to the fuck-me heels that made him salivate. Bringing his gaze back up, the artificial lighting caught the copper highlights in her hair that she didn’t have when she’d arrived on the ranch. The sun had worked wonders, even on her skin that had been pale and was now a bronze. Her curls bounced around her rosy cheeks and plump lips. He leaned in, wanting to sample those pretty morsels when the city slicker strolled up and wrapped an arm around Melly’s waist possessively, pulling her in slightly and nuzzling her hair.

Nix lifted his gaze to the man who’d done nothing but piss him off since he’d stolen the parking space. Hell, further back really. Nix hadn’t like the man since he saw his pic next to Melly’s online.

“Is this the friend you were talking about?” the man asked.

She looked uncomfortable, but she pulled herself together and out of the man’s grasp. “Yes, this is Nix Cade.”

“And you must be Brad.” Nix clenched his jaw and stuck out his hand. The ex shook Nix’s hand, firm and aggressive.

“Aw, so she’s mentioned me?” The city slicker’s dark eyes dazzled with appreciation.

“No, but I did read somewhere that you cheated.”

The man’s eyes widened and he looked exactly how Nix felt watching him touch Melly. Brad was stunned. Shocked. A little pissed off, but instead of responding angrily, he stared. Melly narrowed her gaze. “Ignore him, Brad He’s only joking. Aren’t you, Nix?”

“Sure. You know how the media is. I just wonder how they photoshopped two people entwined at a restaurant. Technology is getting good these days.” Nix wanted to laugh at Melly’s enraged expression, but he didn’t think he should prod her too much. She might slap him.

“I’m running to the restroom. I’ll meet you back at the table,” Brad said, kissed her on the cheek and headed for the back of the room, keeping his gaze lowered.

“What is wrong with you?” Melly said in a hushed voice once they were alone.

“What do you mean what’s wrong with me? What the hell are you doing? Once a man cheats he doesn’t deserve a second chance.”

“That’s none of your business!”

“Really? Are you kidding me? I believe it does concern me. I thought you said you never wanted to see him again? That changed pretty damn quick,” he growled.

She tucked a tendril of hair behind her ear and he noticed the trembling in her fingers. Why was she so damn nervous?

“It’s a long story and not what you think.”

“Yeah, I must be reading too much into the hugs and pecks on the cheek.” He rolled his eyes. He’d never been one to chase after a woman or feel like a puppy on a leash, but he was starting to realize he’d do a lot for Melly that he wouldn’t do for just anyone. Not only did she carry his child, but his heart played an upbeat tune every time she was near. “You’re not the same woman you were when you were with the city slicker. You’ve changed and you deserve better.” His head spun slightly. Yeah, he shouldn’t have had that beer, and yet she deserved to hear what he had to say. The woman standing before him wasn’t the same woman he met four months ago, not even the same woman who walked on Shy Brooke with little knowledge on how to run the place. She had grown a lot, learned a lot, and she was the woman he’d fallen in love with. He couldn’t understand why she’d give the yuppie athlete the time of day. Maybe Nix was only seeing what his heart wanted to see. Had he read into the attraction between them?

“If I wasn’t so angry with you I might explain a few details, but you, Nixon Cade, are out of line!”

“Speaking of details, did you tell Mr-two-timing-son-of-a-gun that you’re pregnant?”

“Shush, Nix.” She looked around to see if anyone was listening. “No, I haven’t. Why would I?”

Nix lifted an eyebrow. “Oh, I don’t know. Maybe because a man deserves to know.”

“Why don’t you just leave?” There was a pleading shine to her eyes.

“Am I cramping your style? Well, get used to it, sweetheart. For the next eighteen years you’re going to be seeing a lot of me. Like it or not, sunshine, this ugly mug will be there protecting you and our child.”

She blinked. “I don’t need your protection. There will be rules and you showing up stalking me will be on the not-to-do list.” She was now fuming.

“Stalking you? Really?” He dropped his hands on his hips. “I have half the mind to drag you over my knee and—”

“And what?” she seethed.

“I think you get a rise out of making me jealous. Does it make you feel good that I’m boiling?” He didn’t realize how much he’d divulged until her face softened and some of the warrior princess left her stance.

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