Page 42 of Saving Jared

"Thank god." Kinsley finally broke the silence when they pulled into the ranch’s open gates. She looked poised to jump out of the limo as it pulled to a stop in front of the dedicated ballroom entrance.

"Kinsley." Hart moved toward her and took hold of her arm as the door on Laurel and Hart’s side opened. Kinsley froze, her strained expression going to Jared’s as Hart whispered, "We need to talk."

"Hart," Laurel said, pleadingly. "No."

Jared grabbed the other man’s wrist and squeezed, before jerking it hard enough he let go of Kinsley. Then he leaned in as he held tight to Hart’s wrist and pulled him closer. "I don’t know what’s gone on between the two of you, but you need to keep your hands to yourself. If not, you’ll answer to me. Do we understand each other?"

Hart nodded, his jaw clenching.

Jared shoved away from Hart as he dropped his wrist. "Now, we have to go out and play nice. And we’re all going to do it. For Kinsley."

Cameras flashed outside the limo again and people were probably wondering why they’d stayed inside the vehicle so long.

"Agreed," Laurel said, quietly. "Now, let’s do our job." With that she plastered a smile on her face and stepped out, waving and answering questions, while Hart lingered.

Kinsley took in a shuddering breath and finally looked at the man Jared wanted to throttle. "Please."

After only a few seconds of hesitation, Hart nodded and stepped out of the limo as well. But not before he took one long, last lingering look at Kinsley.

"Thanks, Jared," Kinsley said with a tremulous smile. "I’ve got this." Then she too exited the back of the limo.

Jared followed close behind her and eyed the line of press waiting on them.

"Let the show begin."

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