Page 7 of The Texan's Secrets

“We need to work out the real-world kinks,” Misha said. “Nobody knows the Surprise Me! function better than you do.”

“After all the scandal and build-up to the IPO launch, ithasto be a success,” Maggie said.

“And we both know theoretical and real-world are two completely different things,” Misha added.

Nico couldn’t argue with that. Part of beta testing was seeing how an app behaved on a larger scale when real and inherently unpredictable people got involved. It was never what you expected.

“You don’t think people would recognize me?” Even if he did agree in principle with the plan, there were definitely some real-world problems on his end.

Misha waved off the concern. “Nobody in Royal has seen your face in six years.”

Nico’s hand went to his thick beard. As disguises went, it had proven very effective. He didn’t go out much, but he could walk the streets of downtown or pick up groceries without being recognized, even though he’d grown up here.

“I knowI’mcurious to see what he looks like under there,” Maggie added.

Because he loved Misha dearly, he considered humoring her. “If, and I’m only saying if. If I did agree.”

Both women instantly beamed.

“Don’t get ahead of yourselves,” he warned. Although he knew he couldn’t realistically turn them down, at least not without a very compelling reason.

“Sure,” Misha said. But her expression told him she was certain she’d won.

Which she had. She was right about this, and he never argued with his sister when she was right. Not that he argued much the rest of the time either. He adored her, and he’d do anything for her.

“How would it work?” he asked.

Maggie sat up straighter. “You’d lose the beard, get rid of the beanie and, for goodness sake, cut your hair.”

“I’ve grown fond of the beanie.” The slouchy brown knit hat drew attention. It kept people from looking too closely at his face. Plus, it kept his head comfy warm. It was to the point that he felt a little naked without it.

“It’s all gotta go, bro,” Misha said on a laugh.

“What if it’s completely obviously me under there?” he asked, worried that half the town would recognize him as soon as he got rid of the disguise.

“We won’t know until we check,” Maggie said reasonably. She rose from her chair.

“What are you doing?” he asked with suspicion.

“Getting a pair of scissors to cut your hair. You must have some kicking around the kitchen.”

“What? You? Now?” A vague sense of alarm shot through him. “I haven’t said yes yet.”

“Sure, you have,” Misha said, then looked to Maggie. “What do you think? Haskap’s downtown, or should we take him into Dallas for new clothes?”

“Haskap’s has plenty to choose from.”

Nico heaved a sigh of capitulation. “And...you’re talking wardrobe too?”

“Absolutely,” Misha said. “Now, go with Maggie. Get her your best scissors.”

“I have a beard kit in the bathroom,” he admitted.

“Perfect,” Maggie said. “I’ll leave it longer on the top and clip the sides short. Get your hair wet. Take off your shirt and put a towel around your shoulders.”

“The things I do...” Nico muttered as he heaved himself from the chair.

“Nick.” Misha tried on the name for size. “I like the sound of that.” She pushed up her sleeves, obviously getting ready for business.

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