Page 30 of More Than an Ex-Girlfriend

Archer rubs the back of his neck, his tell for being anxious. “Call me if they show up again.”

“H—” I clamp down on my tongue, stopping the rest of his nickname from slipping out. And now I’m too flustered to argue. “Okay.”

And either he didn’t hear that part or he’s ignoring it. “What time do you get off work?”

“Nine. I only make the donuts. Layla and Tessa work the front counter.” I hate feeling like a burden to him. “But you don’t—”

“I know.” He turns into the parking lot, drives behind the building, and stops near the back door of the shop. “Mind if I walk in with you to check things?”

“That’s fine.” We get out, and I unlock the shop. “Tessa knows about the situation, so she’s going to have her cousin who is a deputy stop by in the mornings. He does anyway most of the time. Because he likes donuts. And his wife works at the lingerie store right there.” I point next door before stepping inside.

“Good.” Archer steps in behind me and checks the bathrooms and office. Then he walks back toward the exit. “Lock up behind me.”

“I always do.” I’m used to taking care of myself, so taking orders doesn’t come easy, which might’ve been reflected in my voice.

He rests a shoulder on the doorframe, gazing down at me. “I’m just worried about you, Lettie.”

“I know. And I appreciate that you’re looking out for me.” I love his protective side, but it makes me miss the rest of the package. The kisses and cuddles, the plans for our forever.

Smiling, he tips his hat and strides to the truck. After getting in, he stares until I close the door. Then I flip the bolt and set to work getting donuts ready.

I pull trays full of donut-shaped dough out of the refrigerator and set them on the counter to rise. While that happens, I prep the toppings and fillings. The morning routine is second nature now. And by the time Layla arrives just before opening, the donuts are ready to go into the display case.

“Good morning!” She tosses her purse under the counter and sets to work brewing the coffee, the second most important offering. “How are things with Archer? Has he kissed you yet?”

“I don’t expect he’ll ever kiss me again, unfortunately. But things are good. We’re friends again.”

“I’m just glad y’all are talking. Real people are so much better than that username you were messaging.” She taps the side of her head. “It was something weird, wasn’t it?”

“Not weird. Cute. Crocheting-Cowboy. And I haven’t messaged him since I sent that embarrassing word vomit of a message and then deleted it. He hasn’t messaged either.”

Her laugh rings out. “He probably saw what you sent. Now he’s jealous that you are hung up on your ex and he doesn’t have a chance.”

“No. I don’t think we were flirting or anything. I mean, we messaged a lot. And this is the longest stretch without talking since we started.” The reality sets in. “He totally read the message, and now things are weird. What should I do?”

She wipes the counters and fills the cream and sugar containers. “You have two options. One—ignore him and let it just fade away, or two—ask him for tips on how to win back your ex. When Nico and I first started hanging out, he asked Garrett, Tessa’s husband, for advice. And it totally worked. One hundred percent.” After surveying the room, she walks to the door. “Am I good to unlock it?”

“Yep.” Before I can dart into the kitchen, the bell jingles and a tall cowboy strides in.

“Morning, ladies, I’d like three dozen of whatever. Surprise me.” His gaze lands on me, and he smiles. “I don’t believe we’ve met. I’m Anderson.”

Because I’m not rude, I shake his hand. “Hi, I’m—”

“She’s Violet, but everyone calls her Lettie. She’s Archer’sreallygood friend. But if anyone comes up to you in town and asks if you know her, the answer is no. It’s complicated. Don’t ask.”

After that introduction, I want to crawl to the back and never show my face again.

“Archer’s friend?” His brow knits. “Oh. Oooh. You’re his new neighbor.”

I bob my head, stunned that this man knows where I live. “You know Archer?”

“Yep. We work together on Stargazer Springs Ranch. Good guy.”

While he settles the bill with Layla, I pack up the rest of his donuts. “Here you go.” I hold out the bag.

He tucks his wallet in his pocket, then grabs the bag. “I’m a bit fuzzy on the rules about knowing you, so can I tell Archer I met you? Or is that part of the complicated?”

Layla snorts. “That’s totally complicated, but you can tell him. He’s not trying to hurt her or anything.”

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