Page 20 of My Favorite Hero

But a girl could hope.

A text came in a while later from him. He had checked in every day, his words sparse.

How’s Miller?

I followed his lead and kept my replies short as well.

Fine. No problem.

Today was no different.

Miller okay?

This time, I took a picture of him and Barney asleep together and sent it with a quick response.

I think fine is an understatement. He’s very much at home.

Normally, that was the extent of our conversation. But he surprised me today.

Lucky dog.

He’s great.

I appreciate you doing this.

He was almost chatty.

No problem. That is what friends are for.

Friends is taking it a little far, KC.

I started to laugh. There was the grump. But he was also teasing me by using KC.

Good tenants, then.

Tenants usually pay rent.

I decided he must be in a teasing mood.

I put first and last on your table. My debt is paid.

Thanks.

The texts stopped and I sighed. He was very hot and cold.

Then my phone pinged, and I glanced down.

Are you okay? Your back?

I’m good. That cream helped. Thanks for leaving it.

Finding everything okay?

I blinked. He was very chatty today. Almost friendly.

Yes. The coffeemaker was a godsend.

Good. Home tomorrow. Later, Katharine Casey. Have a good night.