Page 36 of Moonlit Colorado

He angled his body to face me. Even if we’d had more space between us, it would’ve been impossible to ignore the man. “I’d like you to be my official guide to Silver Ridge,” he said. “Help me get to know the town the way you do. The people.”

“That’s the favor you want? Why me?”

“Because everyone here adores you. You know the insider secrets. Like where this creek begins. You’re plugged into the pulse of the town.”

“What about Dixie or Ashford.”

“Dixie is a fantastic lady, but she’s a steamroller. And as much as I love Ashford, he’s the town grump. I need a guide with a more…diplomatic touch. I needyou.”

I looked off into the trees, just for a break from the relentless pull I felt toward him. “I’m pretty busy as it is.”

“I could hire you. Name your price.”

“I like my job. I don’t need a new one.”

“Donations in your name to whatever charities you want.”

“You’re bribing me?”

“I’m not above it. I’ll beg, if that’s what it takes. You wanna see a man brought low? I’ll get on the ground if I have to.”

Laughter bubbled in my chest. “You’re ridiculous.”

“You haven’t even seen ridiculous yet.” He dropped to his knees in front of me, lower lip pushing out in a pout.

“Get up. Someone’s going to see you.”

“Not until you say yes.”

“Fine,yes. Just get up.” I didn’t need rumors spreading about Dane Knightly begging me for something on his knees. The gossips would have us engaged and pregnant in no time. Ashford wouldlovethat.

But Dane was a friend of the family. That was reason enough for me to help him out. I would’ve done the same for plenty of other people. Had nothing to do with the fact that he was extremely easy on the eyes, made me laugh, and knew how to talk me intoanything, apparently.

“I can be your guide to Silver Ridge. As a friendly favor, and nothing more than that.”

He stood up. “Wasn’t asking for anything more.”

“Good.”

“Are you busy tonight? We can get started. I’ll buy you dinner.”

“Anyone ever told you you’re incredibly pushy?”

“Yes,” he said simply.

I huffed another laugh.

“You drove here, right?” he asked. “How about we head to your place to drop your car off. Then we can get something to eat. Whatever spot is your favorite.”

I sighed, giving up. “Okay. You win.”

“That’s what I like to hear.”

“You claim Dixie is a steamroller? She’s nothing compared to you.”

He smiled.

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