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I grin.

"But I pay every cent. I don't do charity," he repeats.

"Yep."

"No slipping money onto the account."

"Wouldn't dream of it."

His eyes narrow. "And if the price changes, you tell me."

"Absolutely."

"And I get copies of every invoice."

"Done."

He exhales hard. "Fine."

I slap him on the back, teasing, "Well look at us. Bonding."

"We're not bonding."

"We're practically family."

His expression turns murderous.

I laugh.

Charlie starts laughing too, even though she has no idea what's funny.

Dean tries not to smile but fails.

He looks toward my truck. "You said you're staying overnight?"

"Yep. Figured Charlie could spend some time with you."

His suspicion returns. "Why?"

"Because you miss her."

He glances at her.

"And because I need to talk to you about Christmas."

"Not happening."

I groan. "Why does everything start with no?"

"Because you keep asking questions I don't like."

"Come to the ranch for Christmas."

"No."

"Lorraine wants you to," I point out.

"She knows I have a ranch to run."