Page 60 of A Cowboy's Bride
Because that was his first instinct. He didn’t want her hurting, or worried, or overwhelmed, but something held him back from straight up diving into solutions.
They sat there quietly for a good five minutes before Petra wiggled up to meet his eyes straight on. “How areyoudoing?”
“Pretty much the same,” he said honestly. “I’m worried I’ll accidentally make a wrong move and scare the beejezus out of Jinx. I’m worried I’ll go overboard and be too protective of her when she’s obviously strong as hell and just needs a firm foundation under her feet. I’m worried High Water won’t be ready soon enough to help someone else who needs it.”
She listened intently as he spoke, nodding in understanding.
Aiden took a deep breath. She was already exhausted. This wasn’t the time to drop the other bomb, that he was worried that he was the only one thinking maybe the thing between them could be more than a convenient lie and great sex.
Petra raised a brow. “What?”
Nope. Not going there. Not yet.
“Focus on simple,” he suggested. “Let’s get through the next couple of days. Jinx starts school on Monday, and that will give us more breathing room. That should help.”
“That’s true. You know what? Monday I’m taking a long lazy bubble bath,” Petra warned. “Middle of the day, with sweet treats and candles and no agenda.”
“Perfect.” He brushed his lips over hers and kissed her softly. “I’ll make sure that happens.”
She leaned closer, returning the kiss with gentle enthusiasm. Aiden soaked in the pleasure of having her in his arms even as he plotted mischief.
Operation Bubble Bath was on for Monday. He could not wait.
15
The weekend passed in a whirl of activity and simmering anticipation. By the time Monday morning rolled around, Petra and Aiden had at least five conversations with Jinx about exactly what she wanted to happen for her entrance into high school society.
Each time, Jinx had slowly stiffened her resolve, until now they stood on the porch, a collection of four very antsy adults hovering over a sixteen-year-old as she determinedly focused on her boots.
“If you change your mind, you give us a call,” Declan said.
Jinx stood and hoisted her new grey backpack over her shoulder. She straightened and met each of their eyes fearlessly. “I’m going to be okay. I like school, and I like Sasha, and I’m going to be okay.”
Petra dipped her chin firmly. “Damn straight, you are.”
Jinx’s lips twitched as she glanced at the guys to see how they would react to Petra swearing.
“If Jinx’s teachers complain about her language, we’re pointing at you,” Jake warned. Petra only grinned.
“Time to get a move on,” Aiden informed Jinx. “Take this for later, and we’ll see you at the end of the day.”
Jinx frowned slightly as she accepted the brightly coloured envelope he held. “What is it?”
“Something to read when you’re on the bus. If you want,” Aiden told her as he snapped a salute. “You’ve got this.”
Jinx dipped her chin. She proceeded to surprise the hell out of Petra, darting back to steal a brief hug. Petra didn’t have time to do more than fight to keep her balance before Jinx was running down the stairs, Dixie racing by her side.
“Oh. Petra,” she called over her shoulder. “You left your purse on the floor in the living room last night. I hung it back at the front door for you.” Jinx waved one final time before marching down the long gravel road to the highway.
They all stood in silence for a moment before Aiden laughed. “We must look ridiculous.”
“I don’t give a shit how I look. I’m nervous as hell,” Jake admitted.
Petra folded her arms over her chest and glared at Jake. “I’m going to start a swear jar, and I betyouare going to fill it in its entirety, Jacob Anthony Skye.”
Jake looked taken aback, but Declan chuckled, soft and low. “You got second-named, bro. I’d hate to be in your shoes.”
“How did she know my second name? That’s what I want to know.” Jake narrowed his gaze at Aiden.
