Page 34 of One Sultry Summer

“Now, place it in your hand, palm flat.”

She did as she was instructed. She giggled when Stargazer took the carrot from her hand. “That tickles.” I watched as she went from stall to stall to give them treats. The smile on her face was priceless. “I bet Emily has a blast taking care of these beautiful beings.”

“If you think those are fun, you should try feeding the chickens.”

She scrunches up her nose. “Chickens?”

“On second thought. Let’s not have you dothat.”

“Do you not think I’m capable?”

“I don’t doubt that you are. I just don’t want you to be attacked by Elvis Pecksley. He’s a bit of an asshole.”

“Really? How come?”

“He likes to attack ankles.”

“Look at you being my hero and saving me from being attacked.”

“I wouldn’t go that far.” I shrugged my shoulders. “But I’ll take the compliment.” Her hands were now empty. “Are you hungry yet?”

“Yes, I could eat a horse…I mean a cow.”

“For a vegetarian, you might want to rethink your words.” We walked back towards the house.

“I know, bad choice of words. I haven’t always been a vegetarian.”

“Really? Do you mind me asking what made you change?”

She bit the corner of her lip. “I always thought I was heavy set and wanted to lose some pounds.”

“Who put that in your mind?”

“Me. I often felt myself feeling a bit self-conscious around my friends, who always seemed more petite and radiant than I was. Their effortless beauty only amplified my insecurities, making me question my attraction in comparison.”

I stopped in front of her to get her undivided attention. “I don’t want you to be offended since we’ve only known each other for a short time. But that is the stupidest thing I’ve heard come out of your mouth.” She opened, then abruptly closed her mouth. “You are one of the most gorgeous women I’ve ever seen. No woman could ever compare or hold a candle to you.”

Her eyes watered at my words. “That’s very kind of you to say.”

“It’s the God’s honest truth. If you want a burger or a thick, juicy steak, go ahead and have one.”

“I’ll think about it. Thanks for your words ofencouragement. Especially coming from a guy that initially came off rude and conceited.”

I wrapped my arms around her waist. “I know, and I did apologize for being inconsiderate.” I gave her a peck on her cheek. “Let me take you back to the inn so you can change if you’d like, and we can grab a bite to eat.”

She looked down at her dress, and her cheeks changed to a light shade of pink. “Great, now I can do the walk of shame into the hotel.”

“Darlin’, there’s no shame in what happened between us, and it’s nobody’s business.”

“Won’t the local tongues wag?”

Although I could give two shits about what people think, her expression made me rethink my careless attitude. “If you’re that concerned, I’ll give you something to add over your dress, if it’ll make you feel better.”

“I appreciate that, Wyatt.”

“I may not look like it. I can be a gentleman when need be.”

∞∞∞

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