“Well I went to college to study journalism, but then switched to English Lit.”
“Smarty pants.”
“Not really, I just love to read.I mean basically I have a career based on make-believe.”
Wes’s deep laugh caused a flutter in her belly.“That’s kind of amazing.I mean I don’t know that most people even find their passion at such a young age, much less get to do it for a living and be really successful.”
“There is definitely an element of timing, based on what the market is after.No one can say what the next hot book or genre will be.”
He nodded.“But you’re really good at storytelling.I was up until midnight last night finishing book one.”
“You were?”Her voice squeaked.She felt so vulnerable with him.
He turned his head briefly to look at her and his right hand reached out to grip her thigh.
“You’re a fantastic writer, but if you tell my brothers I’m reading middle-grade, adventure books, I’ll have to arrest you.”
“Your secret is safe with me, for now, but those cuffs are kind of a turn-on.”
A deep growl sounded from him.“So you did like spending time with me?”
“Like, that’s an understatement.”
“Good.”
His grip on her thigh was warm, and she liked that he kept a hold on her.The connectivity between them only made her wish he was taking her back to his place.The one thing she’d made him feel bad about.
They were on a two-lane state road that was heading away from the coast through a forest.There was snow glistening along the sides, and the sun was shining.
“Care to give me any clue about where we’re going?”
“Not really, unless you hate surprises.”
“I don’t mind them.I guess I just associate a surprise with not great news.”
“We can change that today.We’re almost there.”
“Not even a little clue?”
Wesley’s dimple sunk deep into his cheek as he half turned his head toward her but kept his eyes on the road.
“No, I think I’d like to keep you in suspense just a little bit longer.”He flipped the turn signal on and eased the truck onto a dirt road.
Shelby just grinned at him and sat up a little taller in her seat.
“What’s that look about?”
“I just get the feeling most people don’t get to see this playful side of you very often.It’s endearing.”
He followed the road and smiled when the trees stopped and the ranch fencing began on both sides of the road.
“I guess as the sheriff I don’t let down my guard much—part of the job.”
The entrance to the ranch came into sight and Shelby leaned forward to read the sign above the main gate.
“Brookhaven Ranch.What kind of ranch is this?”
“It used to be one of the biggest cattle ranches in the state, but now it’s more of a family resort.They have a lake, horseback riding, fishing, hiking, and some of the best custard you’ll ever taste.”
