Page 49 of High Value Target

“I’m holding up.”

“Do you need anything?”

“No. You just gave me something I’ve been hoping for. You made my little girl happy.”

“It’s nothing. I’m glad to spread a little cheer.” She held up the bag. “Well, I’ve got more puppies and bears to find homes for. You have a good night.”

Grady followed her out, and over the next hour they delivered one to every room, until the bags were empty.

When they got back in the elevator, he looked over at Tinsley. “That was really nice.”

She shrugged it off. “It was very little, really.”

“You made them happy, if only for a few hours.”

She smiled and stared at the floor. “I hope so.”

“You have a way with them—the children. Do you want kids?”

“Someday. Very much.”

The doors opened at the lobby, and he followed her out to the car. Today she’d shown him a whole side to her he’d had no clue existed.

“You doin’ anything the day after tomorrow?” he asked as he climbed in the passenger seat.

“I don’t think so. Why?”

“Want to take a ride with me?”

“Where?”

“Something I’ve got to do.”

“Hmm. Now, who’s the mysterious one?”

“Gotta keep you guessing.”

“All right. I’lltake a ride with you.”

He grinned. “You are such a smartass.”

She laughed. “Kettle black, darlin’.”

CHAPTER TWELVE

“I like the jeans and boots look. It suits you.” Grady’s eyes did a once over as he sat with Tinsley at the dining room table, sipping on morning coffee. She looked damn good as a country girl. He could almost forget she was worth a fortune.

“Thanks, bodyguard. I’m glad you approve.”

He chuckled, and she grinned back.

Suddenly, the quiet morning was pierced by JD’s loud curse.

“Goddamn it.”

Tinsley jumped up, and Grady followed her into the hall. Her father stood just outside his study. “Daddy, what in the world’s the matter?”

“Bodie didn’t sign these papers. Rowen, get in here. Take these out to the #7 Derrick in Midland. Get his signature and bring them right back.”