Page 140 of Duke
Her face lights up with a smile. “Our Country Boots. Nice choice.”
“I know. Can’t wait to show ’em off to your mama and daddy.”
Wheeler’s expression falls. “At least one of us is excited to see them.”
Frowning, I close the distance between us. Lean down to kiss her mouth. “You not feeling great?”
“You smell good.”
“I got important people to meet.”
Her lips twitch. “And one important person, I mean thing, to do.”
“Don’t tempt me, Blue.” I tilt my head and feather my lips over her throat. “Last thing we need is your parents walking in on you yellin’ my name.”
She puts a hand on my chest. “At least then they’d know how much I like you.”
“Or they’d think you’re using me for my body.” Straightening, I adjust my belt.
Closing her laptop, Wheeler stands. She goes up on her toes to tap my hat. “That’s the only thing I’d ever use you for. Well, that and your perfect—”
“Company’s here!”
We both glance toward the door at the sound of Patsy’s voice.
“Look at me, Wheeler.” She does as I tell her. I take her face in my hands. “You and me—we’re gonna be just fine, regardless of how the next forty-eight hours goes, all right?”
Blinking, she nods, curling her hand around my wrist. “I know. I also know I keep apologizing in advance for whatever comes out of my dad’s and brother’s mouths—”
“Good thing I’m not easy to offend.”
“They’ll find a way, trust me.”
Wheeler lets go of my wrist. I grab her hand. “C’mon, we got good news to share. Remember that.”
She brightens a little at that. “Yeah. Yeah, it is good news. I just hope you don’t fall out of love with me after meeting them.” She motions to the door.
“Ain’t gonna happen, Blue.”
She must know I mean that, because she squeezes my hand.
Together we head out to the front hall. My heart pounds, but I keep my footsteps steady in the hopes it keeps Wheeler steady too.
Patsy is at the door. “Y’all excited?”
“Trying to be,” Wheeler replies.
“Aw, honey. It’s going to be a nice visit.” Patsy reaches for Wheeler’s arm. “Not to toot our own horn, but Lucky River Ranch’s hospitality is second to none.”
I nod. “She’s right.”
“I’m not as much of a city girl as Mollie is,” Wheeler replies, “but I wouldn’t say I was a fan of the country. Then I came here, and now—”
“You’re one of us.” I bring her hand to my lips. “We’ll win every last one of ’em over, you’ll see.”
I just wish I felt as confident as I sound.
CHAPTER 33
