Page 38 of Clumsy in Love

“What’s with the hodgepodge of pets?”

“Jen’s a retired vet. Now she collects animals that would otherwise be homeless or put down.”

“Oh. Well. That sounds nice.”

They locked up the barn and returned to the house.

“I got another bedroom fixed up for you, Cole. You can move off the couch tonight,” Jen said.

“Great, thanks.”

“Jen, we really appreciate you putting us up. We’ll get out of your hair after the Fourth.”

“It’s no problem. Fun to have the company,” she said. “If y’all are good, I’m heading up to read before bed.”

They said their good nights.

“I’m gonna sit on the porch for a bit,” Holly said. “I’ll take Lady and be real careful.”

Cole had some kind of internal debate before saying, “Okay. I’ll be right here.”

Outside, she beelined to the porch swing and flopped. It was her favorite part of Jen’s farm. Covered in flower-patterned pillows and big enough to sleep on if she were so inclined. Lady made a circle and plopped down at her feet.

Holly used her toe to push off, setting the swing in motion, and laid her head back. It was hard to believe so much had happened in only a day. Facing Rick for the first time since thebreakup, working with Cole by her side all day, then seeing her life’s belongings upended.

She knew she was in danger. Knew she should be more worried, but for some reason, it just all seemed too surreal to be real. As long as she didn’t sit around at home, Edwardo would have a hard time finding her. The townspeople had her back and would help keep her safe. Then there was her hunky sidekick, who was never far away. She’d be fine.

After a few deep breaths to clear her mind, she pulled out her phone. There were several missed messages from her friends about the break-in.

What the hell, Holly? Someone broke into your house?Alex had texted.

I heard some guy was asking about you at the Rise and Grind?came from Faith.

And that the sheriff ran him out of town?Tess added.

Are you okay????This was from Juliet from before they had talked.

Holly typed out a quick note to put out the fire.Yes. Yes. Not really. I’m fine!

Soooo, how’s Officer Hottie?Faith replied right away. Everyone sent a wide-eyed emoji at once, meaning they also wanted an answer.

HowwasOfficer Hottie? She smiled, thinking of his various reactions to the day. Angry when she and Tess tricked him into hunting garb. Apprehensive when confronted with the bear. Take charge when searching her place. And terrified at meeting Jen’s menagerie of beasts. He was definitely out of his comfort zone but seemed to be taking it in stride.

She texted a thumbs-up and an eye roll emoji. This was not a conversation she planned to have over text. Or at all, if she could help it.

Cole came out to do a perimeter check. When he finished, they went back in together, and he locked the door and turned the deadbolt.

“Reveille at oh seven hundred,” she said.

“Copy that.” He gave a smart salute. “Night, Bennett.”

“Night, Robinson.”

She snuggled into bed with a smile on her face. He was only here to protect her. Neither of them loved the situation. But damned if she didn’t find herself enjoying his company.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

The next day, Cole and Holly grabbed breakfast on their way to work. After swapping vehicles, Holly drove them to a crowded parking lot and shut off the engine.

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