Page 22 of More Than a Helping Hand

His head bobs as he adds bacon to both plates. “Like a fish.”

“Awesome. I plan to be there, so if that helps convince them, feel free to use my name.”

“I might do that.” He picks up the plates and grins as Bluebonnet walks in. “Catch ya later.”

After pouring myself a cup of coffee, I carry my plate to the table and drop down beside Dallas. “Good day so far?”

“Same as every other.” He stabs at a link of sausage with his fork. “For someone who is wincing every time he breathes, you seem to be in a great mood.”

“Is it that noticeable? I thought I was hiding it well.”

“No. You’re not. I suggest you never take up poker. All your emotions are written on your face. And this morning is no exception.”

“So what does my face say this morning?” I sip my coffee.

He answers without even looking up from his plate. “You’re in pain, and I’m guessing you called that nurse. Because you’ve got that look.”

Crap. Why did I mention to Dallas about getting the nurse’s number? Parker would put that together in a heartbeat. I’m sort of surprised he hasn’t already. There aren’t that many clinics in this area.

“Listen, can we keep the whole nurse thing super quiet? Please.” I keep my voice at a whisper. “And nothing happened with the nurse. We just went to dinner. Nothing more.”

He glances at me, then goes back to eating. “I’m not your parent. I don’t care what you do with the nurse.”

“Please stop saying that word.”

“Nurse?”

“Exactly.”

His gaze snaps up, and a somewhat devious grin stretches across Dallas’s face. “Parker’s sister. That’s why you want me to know that nothing happened.”

“I’m not ready for him to know that I’m crushing on his sister. Please. I will owe you if you keep this quiet for me.”

He goes back to eating, drawing out my panic. After a minute, he whispers, “She helped you with your little cactus problem, huh?”

“I’m not ready for him to know that either. I have to work with him. Please, can we keep this between us? I’m begging you, Dallas.”

Chuckling, he pops his last bite of food in his mouth and grins as he chews. Then he stands and pats my shoulder. “No worries. My lips are sealed. Funny though.”

“Kind of, yeah.” I dig into breakfast, hoping and praying that Dallas stays true to his word.

* * *

On Thursday morning,I’m mucking a stall when Bailey’s voice rings out.

“Uncle Parker! DeeDee! I’m here. Where’s Mason?”

This isn’t unexpected. I knew she was coming. I just didn’t know when.

I set my shovel aside and pull down the bandana covering my face. “Hey there, Munchkin. You made it!”

She’s standing in the middle of the barn, right beside her beautiful mama. “Yes. Mom asked Uncle Parker if I could come to the barn, and he said it was okay. Mason is going to show me the cows, but you don’t have to worry because I left Fred at home.” Her sentences tumble out in rapid succession, and then she grins. “I’m happy to see you again.”

Squatting in front of her, I bop her chin. “And I’m happy to see you too. Your Uncle Parker will be back soon. He took a horse over to the fishing cabin. Mr. Beau and his wife Lilith have a picnic or something and need a horse.” I glance up at Primrose, who gives me a hint of a smile. “And Mason should be here any minute. He was helping his dad with chores.”

On cue, Mason runs in. “Bailey, hey. Sorry I’m late.”

Her grin widens. “Mom got me some boots.” She lifts her leg to show off her new footwear. “I’m ready to look at cows.”

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