Chapter Twenty
It’s been a week. I’ve been sleeping in his bed for a week.
Every night he tucks me in, and every night he tells me to call for him if I need anything.
I never do it because it feels weak, but I won’t say I haven’t wanted to.
The doctor came by today and said I can probably kick the crutches and just use the walking boot in another week.
He said I’ll still have to wear the boot for at least two more after that.
I can’t drive as long as I’m wearing it though.
It would be my luck to bust my driving foot.
The boss’s girls are fun though. They keep me company, and I get to help with their chores and watch Evolette practice her barrels too.
I go out to the barn and brush Blaze every day.
She’s almost perfect. There was a vet that came by and said she probably had some bruised ribs, but she’s gonna heal up just fine.
I can’t ride her yet—not that I could even if I wanted to. But Justin walks her for me.
I’m back to not going anywhere without my gun. After that run in with Grady, I had a reality check. I haven’t let that thing off my hip for fifteen years and that right there is the reason.
“Blondie…” He says, striding toward me as I swing my crutches to exit the barn. “Wanna come with me?”
“Sure, boss!” I say with a smile. “Where are we going?”
“I’m hungry. Let’s get lunch.” He tosses his head toward his truck.
“Where’s Addie and Evie? They comin’? I haven’t seen them for a few hours.”
“No, they weaseled Justin into taking them home to see Blythe and the baby for the afternoon.” He opens the passenger side door of his big truck. “Let’s go.”
I swing my crutches forward, but as soon as I do, he’s right next to me. He takes the crutches together in one hand, bends his knees and throws me over his ridiculously buff shoulder. What the hell?
“Hey, I need those!” My tone is serious but if I’m being honest, it’s the closest thing to flirt I’ve got in me. He chuckles and suddenly we’re moving—I’m completely at his mercy.
“We’re going for a ride, and these damn things slow us down.” He tosses the walking devices into the bed of his truck. “I’m more than happy to pack you around if it means we get food quicker. I’ve hauled men out of combat zones for years, carrying you is nothing.”
Placing me in the passenger seat, he winks, then closes the door. He makes me laugh; he makes me forget. He makes me feel safe.