Blair blew out a slow breath and turned to Hud. “Thank you so much.”
“No problem.”
“They’d been at it since I walked in. A little too sure of themselves and drunk on top of it. One of them even told me they’d been watching me since I got here.” She shook her head. “I’m so glad you sat down.”
As she looked at him she couldn’t help but notice his eyes. Amber, like honey only lighter, and paired with dark hair and tanned skin, he was sexy as hell.
“Is Hud a nickname?”
“For Hudson. Nobody calls me that unless it’s my father, grandparents or boss, and only when they’re angry about something.” He grinned and she was fairly certain she was going to melt into a puddle at his feet.
“Parents do love the full name when they’re irritated. No matter how old you are.” She smiled. “I do like Hudson though.”
He shook his head, still grinning. “So, tell me about you.”
“I just moved here about a month ago. Celine invited me to visit, and I fell in love with Clifton. Have you always lived here?”
“Born and raised. Been a livestock agent for twenty-three years. Worked several cases with Killian after he came here and decided to stay.”
“I know. Celine is so in love with him.” Blair smiled.
“Yeah, and he feels the same about her.” Hud glanced toward the door, then back at her. “You let me know when you’re ready to leave, okay?”
“Sure, but I think I’ll stick around a little while.” She smiled, and when he grinned back she wanted to jump his bones.
“So where are you originally from?”
“Spokane, Washington.”
“You and Celine must be close.”
“As close as sisters. I love her.”
“Well, I’m glad you moved here,” he murmured.
“Me too.” She smiled.
“So, what do you do, Blair Nelson?”
“I’m a registered nurse. I work at a doctor’s office.”
“Do you like it?”
“I do. Regular hours, Monday through Friday. That’s a big plus.” She traced the rim of her glass. “When I worked at a hospital in Washington the hours were brutal. Twelve-hour shifts, one day off, then back at it.” She shook her head. “Are you meeting someone here tonight?”
“No. I just left the office. Working a case and decided to have a beer before heading home.”
“I’m glad you did. My only other option was calling Killian, and I didn’t want to bother him on a Friday night.”
“I’m sure he wouldn’t have called it a bother.” Hud glanced briefly toward where the cowboys had gone. “Those guys are probably just passing through, figured you were alone and thought they’d have a little fun. Likely harmless, but you can never tell.”
“True. I’ll finish this drink and then if you don’t mind, you can walk me out.”
“I already told you I would. They might have backed down in here, but if they see you go outside alone they could follow.”
“They’re so young.” Blair chuckled.
Hud grinned. “Probably just old enough to drink.”
