Page 34 of Nate

“I will, after you.”

“Manners too.”

“Too?”

“Nothing. Never mind.”

“Oh, no. You said it, so tell me. What does too mean?”

“It means also, in addition to, excessively,” she said, biting her lip not to grin when he narrowed his eyes at her.

“I know what the hell too means. What didyoumean by it?”

Markie laughed. “I meant you had manners along with good looks.”

“Thank you, ma’am.” He motioned for her to sit.

“Let me put some of this on a plate for you. I do wish you’d sit down.”

“I’ll sit after you.”

Markie sighed. “Hardhead,” she muttered.

“I’m sorry? What was that?”

She shook her head while she put a piece of chicken along with rice on plates then carried them to the table. She set them down, pulled out a chair, and sat down, then looked at him.

“Happy now?”

Nate laughed. “Who’s going to be hard to handle?”

Markie grinned. “I’m sure we’ll butt heads.”

“No shit,” Nate murmured, making Markie laugh.

Nate cut into the chicken, speared a piece and put it in his mouth then groaned.

“Damn, that’s good.”

“Thank you. I like it too.”

“So, where are you originally from?”

“What makes you think I’m not from Montana?” Markie asked.

“Are you?”

“No. I’m from Idaho.”

“How did you end up here?”

Markie set her fork down, picked up her napkin, and wiped her mouth.

“I had enough of my mother’s husband. I wanted to get as far away as possible, but still close enough to go home if my mother needed me.” She frowned. “Does that make sense?”

“Yes.”

“I found the ad online for an experienced vet. I called and spoke to Tess, and I knew I’d enjoy working with her. She was so sweet. I made the trip for the interview and here I am.”

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