Page 13 of Evading the Enforcer

“I think I need a mini cow to cuddle with every night. Maybe I can move into your barn.”

Calista laughs. “Funny you say that. I told Ryder I need a bed out here to cuddle with them and nap.”

“Oh, definitely.”

“You should get a dog,” she suggests. “It would be great company. Make sure it’s a large breed to keep creepy Les from bothering you.”

“That’s not a bad idea, but who’d watch it when I leave for work? When we’re filming, I’m gone for two to three days at a time.”

“Why couldn’t you bring it with you? You’re filming outside, not in a five-star hotel.”

“Yeah, that’s true,” I agree. “It’s something for me to think about. A dog would make a much better companion than a boyfriend. He won’t talk back, he’ll eat whatever I give him without complaint, and he’ll be happy to cuddle with me.”

“And he’ll always be thrilled to see you,” she adds.

“Right. We could be on to something here. It’s too late for you, but not for me,” I joke.

She laughs. “I’ve always got Boyd.” Bending down, she removes the reindeer headband and kisses the top of his muzzle. “You need to get some sleep now. Be a good boy.”

He blows an audible sigh, as if saying goodnight, and we laugh. Calista closes the stall door behind us and looks at me. “You know, I haven’t given up on the idea of setting you up with your handsome neighbor.”

“Les?”

“Eww, no.” She playfully slaps at my arm. “You know who I mean.”

“Yeah, that’s not happening.”

“Why not? He’s single.”

“Like that’s a good enough reason.”

“It’s not the only one. He’s also a nice guy.”

“All evidence points to the contrary,” I retort.

“Why do you say that?”

“He’s been rude to me every time we’ve come in contact. You know I’m all about being polite, but fuck him. He’s an asshole. There. I said it.”

Calista’s green eyes widen. “I’ve never heard you say anything bad about anyone besides Les.”

“Then you know I’m not overreacting.” An image of me dumping my drink on him comes to mind.Okay, maybe I overreacted a little.

“I’m not doubting what you’re saying. But marrying the version of Niall I know with the one you told me about is perplexing.”

“Imagine how I feel. You keep telling me about this paragon of a man, but I’ve yet to see any sign of his so-called positive qualities.”At least not with me.He did joke with his teammate.

Maybe it’s me. Maybe there’s something about me Niall doesn’t like.

CHAPTER 5

NIALL

Ryder pointsto the stain on my sweater. “You’re cut off.”

“What is that?” Murphy asks.

“I think it’s eggnog,” I say, wiping it with a napkin.

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