Page 32 of The Unbuttoned Ranger
“Living the American dream,” Bradley said.“What brings you out here? Looking for a job?”
“At the moment, no, but one never knows what tomorrow will bring. It was nice seeing you again, Bradley. Sharp, I’ll talk to you soon.”
After Delta took his leave, Sharp asked,“How much of that did you hear?”
“What makes you think I did?” Bradley seemed offended.
“Because I know you and you hear everything.”
Bradley’s laughter echoed through the evening air.“You know I want you to stay, son. I understand you bleed Ranger blood, but there comes a time when a man must consider his future.”
“You mean like a wife?”
“I mean thinking of how you’ll find your person. You’re not getting any younger you know.”
Chapter Fourteen
CaDee walked the worn path to Creed’s Creek. This was the first time she’d been to Sharp’s house. His house was much bigger than Piper’s, with a wraparound porch and a blue metal roof. There was a sign in the front yard that boasted in large lettering, “Creed”.
Bradley was on the porch nursing a cup of coffee. When he saw her, he straightened and waved. A smile crossed his features.“I’d like to think you’re here to see me but I’m guessing you’re looking for Sharp.”
“Yes, but it’s always good to see you.” She liked Bradley. There was a strong resemblance between him and Sharp, although Bradley had a tranquility that Sharp didn’t have.
“He’s down at the barn unloading the trailer. Can’t miss him.”
“Thanks. You have a good morning.” She started in Sharp’s direction.
“Don’t you be a stranger,” Bradley called out.“You’re welcome anytime.”
She saw Sharp before he saw her, and she had the ultimate advantage of taking him in. He was preoccupied by unloading the truck. His shirtless torso was slick with sweat and the waistband of his jeans settled low on his waist. With each movement his muscles flexed.
She approached.“Sharp?”
He was on his way back to the trailer and he stopped mid-stride, an element of surprise in his expression. She smiled but it was lost when she saw the deep scars on his torso. They were still in healing stages.
He grabbed his shirt off the fence and yanked it over his head. Hiding the scars didn’t take the image away. Questions filled her mind. What had happened to him?
“What are you doing here?” he asked, neither rude nor friendly.
“I haven’t seen you in a few days.”
“I’ve been a bit busy.” He slammed his hat down on his head.
She crossed the distance between them until they were toe to toe. She couldn’t describe what she was feeling. Not seeing him for the last few days made her realize how important he’d become in her life. As a friend if nothing else.
“What happened, Sharp?” She touched his chest.
“Long story.”
“I have the time. Carsen is with Piper in town at a church festival.”
“You actually let him out of your sight?”
She took his words at face value. “Let’s just say, a lot of people here are growing on me.”
“I’d love to stay around and chat, but I have a few things I need to do.”
Disappointment wafted through her. “Okay. Well, maybe later.” She wondered where his distance had come from.
