Page 117 of The Guy Who Stole My Ranch

Not buzzed, but rang.

There was only one person who could get through like that. I closed my eyes and sighed. “I’m sorry, this is my sister. She promised only to call if there was an emergency.”

Brooke squeezed my fingers and smiled. “Go ahead.”

“Next time, I’ll leave it in the car.” I resisted the urge to kiss her again and drew the phone from my pocket. Part of me wanted to snap at Courtney, but I knew she wouldn’t be calling unless it was drastic. “What has happened, Courtney?”

She didn’t waste time. “Are you at Lorenzo’s place?”

My eyes darted toward the front door, which I couldn’t see from my current position. “Yes.”

“Someone saw you go in, and Carlotta is on her way.”

I frowned. “Why?”

Courtney used her best damsel in distress voice. “Because she misses you and can’t live without you. She’s live on social media.”

The last thing I wanted was for Carlotta to show up while I was here with Brooke and film the ensuing encounter. Lorenzo had locked the door, but he had to have a few people in the back. Any one of them could let Carlotta in without him knowing.

Brooke, who had paused mid-chew, gave me a questioning look.

“I’ve sent two cars, since I know you’re with Miss Texas.” I could hear the grin in Courtney’s voice at that. “They’ll meet you around back. Lorenzo is packing up to-go boxes for you as we speak.” She paused. “I’m sorry to break up your breakfast.”

I sighed. “Thank you for the heads up and the escape plan.”

“I want details about this woman. Right now mom knows more than me, and I’m not okay with that.”

“Understood.”

Courtney hung up.

“Problem?” Brooke asked.

“Several,” I said. “I’m sorry, but we need to leave.” I stood and offered her my hand.

“Can I ask why?”

“My ex is on her way to make a scene.”

“Lotta?” Brooke asked as she took my hand.

“Yes.” I wasn’t surprised that Brooke had looked up my social life online. Afterall, I’d been stalking her YouTube channel for months.

“I don’t know, that might be kind of fun,” Brooke said.

“There will be a lot of shrieking and begging,” I said.

“Still tempting.”

I shook my head. “Trust me, you should go.”

Lorenzo came from the kitchen with a paper bag in each hand. “This way, if you please.”

We followed him down the hall that led to the restrooms and through a door marked employees only. The supply room felt crowded with three people in it. Lorenzo handed each of us a bag and pointed at the far door. “Your cars will be here in moments.”

Brooke took her bag and gave Lorenzo a wide smile. “You’re a gem.”

“How were the biscuits and gravy?” Lorenzo asked.

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