Page 46 of Dirty Cowboy

My mom has been my number-one love-life cheerleader since I was old enough to have a crush.

I lower my voice, sinking into my seat. “I think we’re making progress. We have this pretend engagement so I can file with corporate for my partnership. Now that we’reengaged—well, fake engaged—I can.”

“And Ericagreedto this fake engagement?”

“It was his idea,” I admit, twirling a napkin between my fingers. “Now, I just need to make him realize we should make it real, but I’m worried about Dad?—”

“—Is that Emma calling?” Tristan’s voice cuts in.

A second later, he’s on the line. “Hey, Emma. How are things going over there?”

I close my eyes, exhaling. “It’s been less than twenty-four hours, but it’s nice to get away.”

“Good, that’s good to hear.”

I frown.That’s it?Something is off.

“How’s Dad?” I press. “Be honest.”

The pause feels eternal.

“Dad’s okay.” His voice is careful. “Is Eric treating you right?”

“Yes, of course. Why wouldn’t he?”

“So you like it there?”

I force a smile, even though he can’t see it. “I fit in Lords Valley like a pea in a pod.”

“Can’t wait to hear all about it.” His tone shifts, lighter. Too light. “Listen, I gotta help with the mattress. Love you.”

“Love you back.”

I expect my mom to take the phone back, but all I hear is a click, then silence. I stare at my phone, gripping it tightly.

I tell him I feel like a pea in a pod and his response is can’t wait to hear all about it? Tristan is never this dismissive.

Something’s wrong.

Across the bakery, Misty collects our order just as the front door swings open. A man steps inside, his presence commanding without effort. Muscular arms covered in tattoos, his tanned skin stretched over a frame built from years of hard work. His friendly smile is the warmest I’ve seen in this town, putting me instantly at ease.

“Hey, Misty.” His voice is deep, and familiar. Then, his gaze shifts to me.

His smile widens.

“And you must be Emma. Eric told me all about you.”

He has?

He extends a hand.

“Derek Fields. Blake’s dad.”

I grip his hand firmly. “Nice to meet you, Mr. Fields.”

He chuckles. “Derek’s fine. Mr. Fields makes me sound like an old man.”

Misty hands me my coffee, her expression unreadable. I take a sip, letting the hot liquid ground me.

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