Page 31 of Sheltered by the Lawman

“You paint a lovely picture. When you have kids they’ll love it here as much as you do.”

He swiped his palm down his cheek. “Well, truth is, I’ve been saving up to build a place. I bought a hundred acres of land a few years ago and I’ve been waiting for the right time to build a house. Eventually maybe a couple of stables and fill them with horses.”

“Cull, that’s exciting.”

Did he see a twinkle in her eye?

“I’m close, real close, to making that wish come true.” He slowed the truck.

“Hopefully you’ll have your personal space back soon.”

“Hey, no rush. I like my childhood room and twin bed,” he joked.

“I’m feeling bad. Especially when the big bed in the apartment is very comfortable.” She winked.

She was teasing him, and he liked it. She was slowly coming out of her shell and showing personality. “Don’t be surprised if I switch beds.”

Several hands were now out on the land and he waved as they passed.

“I’m loving watching the horses from the apartment window. Everything here…it’s so beautiful, fresh. Amazing. Even the people.” She gave him a side glance.

“You haven’t met my sister yet. Kiersten can be a pill.” He laughed.

“I’m sure she is as lovely as everyone.”

Her smile disappeared.

“Hey, why the frown? Am I that bad of company?”

“I just have been really thinking of my situation. I can’t stay here forever. I have a life out there that I might never find again, and maybe I don’t want to find it, but I’m in limbo. Who would hire someone that doesn’t know her social security number?” She looked at him, her brows scrunched. “Without a job what will I do?”

“You keep doing what you’re doing around the house and you’re going to find yourself working full-time here at the ranch.”

“That can’t happen. You all are just being nice to me. Eventually you’ll be handing out walking papers.”

When he laid his hand on hers, she jerked her chin up. Her beautiful, open gaze struck something in him that he couldn’t quite describe. He knew then that he was more than simply attracted to her. How real could those feelings be when he had no clue who she was, what made her tick? He removed his hand and he felt a deep void.

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