Page 23 of The Cowboy's Off Limits Option

Falling asleep with Callie in my arms feels like a dream. I just hope it doesn't turn into a nightmare when we have to face her brother.

Chapter Nine

Callie

Waking up in Archer’s arms was weird-- but in the best of ways.

After making love again, we took a shower together. Archer's been talking non-stop about moving me into as soon as possible while I try to make breakfast.

I can't believe this will be my kitchen now. Is-- is my kitchen now-- according to Archer.

"After we eat, we'll go pick up your car at the Tollhouse."

Archer gets in my way, hovering behind me to steal kisses or slide his hands over my ass as often as he can manage.

"Do you want me to follow you in the truck?" His arms wrap around my middle, his chin resting on my shoulder while I flip pancakes on the griddle insert of his five burner stove top. "We could pack up more things that way."

He nuzzles my neck, at the top of my shoulder, copping a feel of my boob at the same time.

"You better keep my shirt, and make sure to button it all the way."

His fingers lift to trace the mark he left on my throat last night.

Right now, the flannel shirt I stole from him after our shower is unbuttoned dangerously low, giving him access to just about all of me. Since all I have is the skimpy red halter top I wore last night, I'll be wearing his shirt until I can change into something else.

Well that, and because I love the way the worn cotton smells like him and the way it's so big on me that I had to roll the sleeves up four times to be able to handle the spatula and it hangs down to my knees and makes me feel like I'm all wrapped up in Archer.

Later, I'll tie it at the waist and button all the buttons so no one notices the love bite.

I'm hoping it stays long enough that I get to show it off. I'd love to walk around town, proudly showing off Archer's mark on me, but we both know we need to break our news to our parents-- not my biggest worry-- and Rowan, first.

The thought puts a lump in my throat.

I honestly don't know how he's going to react. I mean, sure, my brother is over-protective, but then again, I've never actually introduced him to a boyfriend before. I've always expected that he'll behave better with a guy he knows I actually want him to be nice to...

The fact that the first man to test that theory is ten years older than me and happens to be his best friend?

"Are you sure want to telleveryone today?" I ask nervously as I slide the last of the pancakes on a plate.

"I don't want to sneak around, Cal. I want to kiss you when I want, and hold your hand in public. I aim to put a ring on that finger as soon as you tell me which one you want, and I don't want you to have to hide it from anyone."

"Maybe we could just tell our parents and let the news sort of trickle down?"

"It'll be fine." Archer promises me around a forkful of pancake. "But if it makes you feel better, we can do it here at the ranch. I doubt he'll punch me too hard in front of Ma. And my brothers will all be here too."

I give him a worried look. Not sure it's such a good idea.

"I don't know, Arch, from what you said, it sounds like your brothers might take Rowan's side."

Worry shadows Archer's features momentarily but quickly gives way to determination.

"No one's keeping me away from you now, Cal. Mom won't let the boys kill me and your brother and I will work things out somehow. It might take a while, but he'll get used to it."

Speak of the devil himself.

With just one knock for warning, the front door swings open and we're caught.

"Arch! You home?"

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