Page 30 of Renard's Deliverance

“Isn’t that why you were moving closer to me?” he asked. “For protection?”

“Yeah, I was looking to protectyoufromhim,” she replied.

He gave her an incredulous look and she braced herself for his ridicule. He was huge. What the heck could she do to protect him?

“Aww, you care about me.” He smiled. “That’s cute.” Then he scowled. “But don’t even think about getting between us.”

Lord.

The man had some serious mood swings.

“Who the hell is Chip?” Saxon demanded.

The baby started to grizzle and Renard patted her back. It suddenly occurred to her whose baby this had to be.

She couldn’t believe it had taken her so long to put it together.

“Your baby, who else?” Renard countered loudly. “And can you stop yelling? You’re upsetting her.”

“I’m upsetting her?” Saxon retorted. “She’s probably upset because you stole her.”

“You stole his baby?” Opal gaped up at Renard. “Have you lost your senses?”

“Of course he hasn’t,” Saxon told her. “He’d have to have some in the first place to lose any. Give me my baby, you lunatic.”

“I think that lunatic is a strong word,” Renard grumbled. “As my employer I’m not sure you’re allowed to call me that.”

“As your employer, I don’t think you’re allowed to steal my baby,” Saxon told him.

“You gave her to me. I didn’t even want her. Why would I want to lug around a baby? Here, have her back.”

He was absolutely lying. She wasn’t sure how, but she knew that he was. She could sense his reluctance to hand over the tiny baby. Why lie?

Maybe because it showed a softer side than he wanted to reveal. Or more weakness than he was comfortable with.

As he handed the baby over, she started to fuss and cry.

“See what you did with all your yelling?” Renard snapped at Saxon. “I had her sleeping peacefully, then you come in screaming. That’s not a good way to act around a baby.”

Saxon just gaped at him. “How the hell have I not strangled you yet?”

Renard shrugged. “Apparently, I’m irresistible to you and everyone else in this town. The amount of hugs I get is truly disgusting. Don’t people around here understand about germs?”

The baby started really crying. Big tears slid down her red and puffy cheeks.

“She needs to be fed,” Saxon said. “Listen, I appreciate you having her, but next time, could you tell me before you leave with her?”

“Next time? Who said there will be a next time? I’m not your babysitter. Urgh, give me Chip.” Reaching out, he took the baby back, settling her against his chest.

And it was shocking how quickly she settled.

What the hell?

Saxon sighed. “Why does my baby like you more than me?”

“I’m sure that’s not true,” Opal told him quickly.

“It is true,” Renard said.

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