“I do. He’s funny. But Kieran… gets to me.”
“Obviously.”
“Anyway, I can’t like Rance.”
“Why not?”
“You like him.”
“No, I don’t.”
“Now who’s lying through her teeth?”
“Go to hell, Sara.”
“Love you, too, sis.” Then she flashed her parents a smile. “Sorry to hold up the parade. It was a sesame seed from my hamburger bun. Sneaky little critters.”
Her mother gave her a look, clearly not believing a word of it. She probably had the urge to deliver the same message Lani just had.
“Maybe someone should check my teeth,” Kieran said. “My sandwich was on a bun with seeds.”
“Let me look.” She offered way too fast, but damned if she was turning that job over to someone else. She’d stop flirting, but she was still his sidekick. “Smile.”
A twinkle in his blue eyes, he obliged, putting her right back under his spell.
She quickly examined those pearly whites and did her best to ignore his sensual, kissable mouth. A faint shadow darkened his upper lip. He’d clearly found a moment to shave before making the drive from Missoula, but he’d have some prickles by nightfall. She longed to find out firsthand. “You’re fine.”
“Then let’s go in,” her dad said. He started toward the porch steps. “She knows we’re here. Sam just barked.”
“I thought I heard a dog!” Kieran lit up. “What kind is he?”
“A collie,” her dad said. “The spitting image of Lassie.”
“Yeah? Collies are my?—”
Before he could finish the sentence, Desiree appeared clutching Sam’s collar. “Hi, there. He heard a new voice and can’t wait to make another friend.”
Kieran moved forward eagerly. “Wouldya mind turnin’ him loose? I used to have?—”
“You’re Irish!” Desiree grinned as she let go of Sam, who made a beeline for Kieran.
“That I am. Born and bred.” Nudging back his hat, he crouched down and embraced the collie, burying his fingers in the dog’s silky ruff. “Hey, Sam. Hey, boyo. You’re a beauty, aren’t you, now?”
Sam wiggled with joy and made little moaning sounds of ecstasy.
Desiree came down the steps, her brow furrowed, as she gazed at her visitor. “What’s your name, son?”
He glanced up. “Kieran Haggerty. From County Kildare. Just arrived today.”
Her frown deepened. “How old are you?”
“Just turned thirty-two.” He slowly rose to his feet and took off his hat.
“You remind me of someone.”
“I do?”
She stared at him for several uncomfortable seconds. “Why are you here, Kieran?” There was a faint tremor in her voice.
