Page 35 of Hunter

“Yes, sir.”

There was a long pause before Dad finally said, “And are you planning to keep handling it?”

Wesley’s gaze didn’t waver. “I don’t plan to leave her side.”

Dad studied him for another second, then gave a slow nod. “Alright. I appreciate you looking out for her.”

“Always will,” Wesley said quietly.

My eyes widened when my dad’s attention switched back to me. “I’d ask why this is the first I’m hearing about the note, but I’m pretty damn sure the answer won’t make me much happier.”

I gulped. “Um…”

“Well.” Mom clapped her hands, saving me from needing to respond. “Sounds like we won’t need to cut the RV trip short since Hunter has things well in hand.”

“Unless we need to meet him in person,” Dad muttered.

“Maybe once you’re back on this side of the country,” I said quickly, cheeks blazing. “And I’ll make chess pie.”

That earned a smile from both of them.

“Be good, sweetie,” Mom said. “And call again tomorrow.”

“Love you,” I whispered.

“Love you too,” they said in unison before the call ended.

I lowered the phone slowly, heaving a relieved sigh over how well that went, considering.

Wesley didn’t say anything. He just reached out and brushed his knuckles down my cheek.

Somehow, introducing him to my parents made everything feel more real.

12

HUNTER

Sadie leaned into my touch, and I curled an arm around her waist, pulling her against my body. My lips brushed her forehead, and she sighed, melting into me.

The call with her parents had gone pretty well, in my estimation. Knowing I was there to keep his little girl safe from real danger had gone a long way in smoothing things over with her dad. Hopefully, he wouldn’t get overprotective when it was all over and try to chase me away. It was never gonna happen, and the faster he came to terms with it, the less strain it would put on Sadie. Besides, I was pretty sure he’d come around when he saw how much Sadie meant to me. How much I loved and worshipped her and would do anything for her.

“My mom will support our relationship,” Sadie mused as she rubbed her nose on my chest. “My dad won’t be as easy, but I have no doubt you’ll charm him.”

I heard a snorted laugh behind me and turned to see Maverick standing a few feet away. His feet were braced apart, and his arms were folded across his chest, emphasizing his muscular build. Most people would be intimidated, but even if I’d felt a little of that, it was ruined by the amused twist of his lips and laughing eyes.

Apparently, Marcy had opened for business while we were chatting with Sadie’s parents.

“Charm, huh?” Maverick drawled. “Not exactly Hunter’s strong suit. Guy’s more steel wool than smooth talk.”

“You’re confusing charm with not giving a fuck what people think,” I grunted.

Maverick snorted. “Guess that explains why your idea of flirting is glaring and grunting in her general direction.”

“Worked on Sadie, didn’t it?” I shot back, tightening my arm around her waist.

Sadie let out a soft, breathy laugh, her cheeks pink as she peeked up at me with a smile that made my chest feel too tight.

“I think I liked that you didn’t try to charm me.”

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