Page 92 of Never In My Wildest Dreams

“Das okay, Coltie.” Her daughter lunged out of Lorelei’s arms, and the boy grabbed her around the waist.

As they hugged, tears sprang to her eyes. She was a mess of emotions. As much as she wanted a daddy for her little girl, the reality of him—of this busy sports agent from New York—terrified her.

It’s not what I want for her.

Not even close.

“You ready for a bath now?” her dad asked. “Grandma got you those fun crayons so you can write on the walls.”

Stevie reached for her grandparents, and Lorelei watched as the trio left the barn.

She drew in a fortifying breath before crouching in front of her nephew. “I know you didn’t mean to hurt her. You’re a very good cousin.”

“I’m sorry.” The little boy had his chin tipped down.

“I know you are, sweetie. You were just having fun. It’s all right. I promise. She’s not hurt at all.” She kissed his forehead and brushed the damp hair away from his temples.

Her brother picked him up. “Come on. You can help me set up the s’mores.”

The little boy nodded, still too shaken to smile, and the two of them headed for the house.

Leaving her alone to face Slick. “Take a walk?”

He gave her a curt nod.

If this man was angry at her for not telling him about the baby, he was going to get a resounding slap upside his head.You left me, remember?

He turned to Ginty and Noa. “We’re set with the barn?”

“Yes,” Noa said, somber now. “Definitely.” She mouthed, “You okay?”

Lorelei nodded. They’d talk later.

She followed Slick outside. Night had fallen, leaving nothing but shadows and silhouettes. The sky blazed with stars.

At the other side of the corral, he stopped and turned toward her. “I left you a note.” Emotion pierced his hard tone. There was a hint of remorse, an apology.

“Okay, well, I didn’t see it.” What did he want her to do about it now? It didn’t change anything.

He pulled out his wallet and flicked through a few bills and credit cards. A moment later, he handed her a piece of paper.

Her fingers trembled as she unfolded it. Sure, part of it was residual adrenaline from her daughter’s spill. But also, the anticipation… All these years, she’d neededsomethingfrom him. A hint of an explanation.

She blinked back the tears so she could read.

Hellcat,

I’ve got to get back to work. I won’t come here for a while, so feel free to stay. If you need me for anything, here’s my number.

Best Christmas ever.

Take care,

Booker

Okay, so? What did he expect?

That she’d throw herself into his arms and everything would be okay?

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