Page 43 of Loved By Tandy

“Not today. You need to rest and shake this bug.” I run a hand down her arm, then pull the blanket over her.

“What if you get sick?”

“You can return the favor and take care of me. I suppose I should call Dallas and postpone the meeting.”

“I’ll text him. Will you get my phone from my bedroom?” She sits so that I can get up.

“Be right back.” I wag my finger at the cats who played me for a fool. But they don’t seem bothered. When I return to my seat, Tandy snuggles back into place. She taps out a text to Dallas, letting him know she’s sick.

Tandy hands me her phone. “Hang onto this. If he responds or calls, you talk to him. I’m going back to sleep.”

Dallas responds a few minutes later, saying that he’s headed over.

And I type out a text.

Me (on Tandy’s phone):This is Matthew. I’m here. You don’t need to rush over.

Dallas:Oh. Will you keep me updated?

I send him my number.

Me (on Tandy’s phone):I will. And you have my info in case you need to get a hold of me.

Dots dance on the screen, then stop. After several minutes, a message pops up on my phone.

Dallas:Thanks for looking after her. And please call if she needs me.

I send a thumbs-up, then set the phones aside.

When Tandy is better, we’ll reschedule with Dallas. I bet he has no clue about the opportunity coming his way.

She shivers, and I tug the blanket over her shoulders.

Then I tap out a text to my grandsons.

Me:Either of y’all have time to run out to the ranch and throw some clothes in a bag for me? Tandy is sick, and I don’t want to leave her alone.

Eli responds within seconds.

Eli:Sure thing. And I’ll drop off something for lunch. Be there in about an hour.

Thankfully, my grandsons seem to be fine with the idea of my dating Tandy. I’m not sure what my sons and daughter will think. But the next time we all get together, I’m inviting Tandy over so they can meet her.

I’m hoping that goes well.

CHAPTER 17

TANDY

Ihave only the vaguest recollection of crawling into my bed. The shower is running so someone is here. Probably Matthew. That sweet man hasn’t left the house since he found me sick. How long ago was that?

The water stops and a couple of minutes later, Matthew strolls out wearing my bathrobe. He grins when he realizes that I’m awake. “Good morning. Feeling better?”

“Make sure you keep that robe closed. I don’t want you flashing me.”

“You’re back to your old self.” He pulls the top apart just a bit. “Aren’t you curious about my rivels of wisdom?”

Yes. But I’d never say that to him. “Go get dressed, Matthew. And try to avoid climbing in or out my windows.”

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