Theron nodded, pride radiating from him that his ‘pupil’ understood his teaching—I knew that look well. “Poppy has eyes. She knows Cass is attractive. And the times I’ve seen her flirt with him have been unintentional. Cass is dealing with his attraction for Poppy the best way he knows how, by being a friend to her—and that’s all.”
Finn’s eyes widened. “You already suspected all this?”
“I may be old, but I’m not blind.”
I touched my foot to Finn’s, a subtle hint not to forget about my request. If he didn’t escort me away from here soon, I would find another train home. One that didn’t have a tiger emblem on the side.
Finn stated, “We’re going to take our leave now. Mina’s ready for bed, I believe.”
Theron’s brows lifted, his sparkling dark eyes on mine. His lips curved up on the edges in a smirk. “It’s always so much better in light of day, isn’t it?”
I blinked. “He didn’t mean it that way, Mr. King.”
“Theron,” he admonished, his tone severe. “I’m not the king right now. That’s my son’s job.”
I couldn’t keep track of this man’s moods.
So I simply agreed. “Of course. My apologies, Theron.”
Finn dipped his head in a show of respect. “My apologies also for intruding on your vacation.”
He waved his hand in a dismissing nature. “Just come by for dinner sometime. That’s enough of an apology.”
“It’ll be my pleasure. Your food is always excellent.”
“All right. Quit kissing my ass and get out of here. Your woman there is about to drop.”
“Ass kissing done.” Finn dipped his head one more time and grinned before he led us from behind the tree and onto the walking trail. He glanced down at me, asking gently, “Are you all right?”
“Not really.” I shook my head, leaning against him heavily. “My mind is a confused mess and my body needs sleep. Lots of it.”
I squeaked when he lifted me into his arms, holding me close against his chest. “I can definitely walk. This is unnecessary.”
“But it is chivalrous.” He tossed me up and caught me, laughing at my resulting shout. “How else am I to get you into my bed?”
My lips trembled in humor. “You are relentless, Mr. Baker.”
“Absolutely. It’s a finer trait of mine.”
