The movie ends, but I haven’t paid attention to a minute of it since the wedding scene. The sole focus of my thoughts has been Layla.
Layla stands, helping Gemma collect the blankets. Taking a breath of Layla-free air, my mind starts to settle.
No matter how good that kiss was, this is all a ruse. Something to get her ex off her back.
Maybe if I tell myself that, I’ll start to believe it.
“You two need a ride back into town?” Mason asks, startling me from my thoughts.
“Simon’s staying here at the ranch,” Layla is quick to point out.
“I thought you had tomorrow off?” Mason asks. “I just assumed you’d need a ride since I brought you here, Layla.”
Damn him for being so on top of it.
“You’re right, I do,” Layla sighs.
“Then you need a lift?” He looks between the two of us. “I’m assuming you’re staying at Layla’s.”
“I’ve got her. I’ll take her home,” I tell him.
“You will?” Layla’s face doesn’t give anything away.
“Of course, love.”
Shite. Maybe I can sneak back to the ranch after I drop her off. Because there is no way that my self-control can take sleeping in the same room as her.
Because after one kiss, I want more. And after that one fake kiss?
I can’t imagine what the real thing will be like with Layla.
ChapterFourteen
LAYLA
“Are you sure about this? I can head back and stay at the lodge.”
Unlocking the front door, I let Simon in before me.
“It’s fine. I don’t want anyone asking any questions.”
Because after that heated kiss, anything less than Simon coming home with me would draw too many eyes.
“Who’s this?”
“She hates most people.”
Luna circles his feet, nipping at his shoelaces.
“Animals love me.” Simon bends down, picking her up.
“Careful!” I lurch toward them, not wanting her to scratch at him.
“What’s her name?” Simon pays no attention to me, nuzzling into Luna’s soft fur.
“Luna.”
She lets out a contented meow as Simon continues petting her.
