Free Chase the Moon: A Historical Romance by Lynn Hubbard Page B

However, no harm was done by him. Life can be cruel sometimes, but we go on.”
     

Chapter 12
    A melia stared out the window as she watched the two women hug each other. She was very happy for her cousin to find not only a husband but a new family as well. She liked Anna a lot, and Jonathan was a piece of work. He kept everyone in stitches, it was very clear where Chase got his personality from.
    “Have we resorted to spying?” A deep voice rumbled in her ear causing her to jump. Unfortunately, her shoulder hit Chase’s chin causing him to bite his tongue hard. He cursed tasting the blood as she spun around angrily.
    “Good enough for you! Sneaking up on me like that.”
    “You Lovett women are like fire and ice. Either blowing hot or blowing cold.”
    “I’m not blowing anything. Now get out of here so I can finish washing your dishes. You had three plates full.”
    “Now isn’t that sweet? I had no idea you were watching me while I was eating. For your information I only had one plate, I just filled it three times. Moreover, to prove I’m a gentleman. I’ll wash it myself.”
    Amelia raised an eyebrow at him as she stepped aside so he could wash his one stupid plate. She rolled her eyes as he made a show of flexing his muscles as he held it up to the light to check for spots.
    Warren and Riley choose that moment to come in through the back door.
    “Amelia! Are you making our guest do the dishes?” Warren asked with a frown.
    “Guest? What do you think I am?” Amelia asked really put out by now.
    “You’re family.” Riley offered with a smile.
    “You know I just had a wonderful idea! You two do the freaking dishes and I’ll show our guest around the ranch.” She said grabbing Chase’s arm and dragging him out the front door.
    “Stupid pig headed men.” She spat as she slammed the front door shut. She dropped Chase’s arm but he grabbed hers instead spinning her around. Finding herself pinned to his solid chest she opened her mouth to complain. She was shocked into silence when his head dipped and he covered her sweet lips with his.
    Amelia stood stunned and unresponsive. A part of her wanted to reach up grab his thick black hair with her hands and pull him closer. Another part was still ticked off by his antics in the kitchen. Unfortunately, for Chase the later part won. Pain shot through his spine as her knee connected with his neither regions. He released her and doubled over to catch his breath.
    “What the hell was that for?”
    “I don’t know what barn you were raised in but men do not go around manhandling ladies and stealing kisses.”
    “Stealing? I do apologize. Should I give them back?” He asked again pulling her to him and lowering his head as her eyes widened. She was a might disappointed when he suddenly pulled away and turned to scan the horizon.
    “Company’s coming.”
    He announced as Amelia looked in the same direction not seeing or hearing anything.
    Chase stuck his head in and announced the news to the men inside. Riley and Warren were there in an instant, both armed with rifles. It was almost funny seeing these bold men ready to act with soap bubbles still clinging to their shirt sleeves. Warren rang the bell on the porch to announce the visitors.
    She glanced at the men’s faces. They were on full alert. She doubted they would ever be at ease again. With worry replacing her anger, she took a step towards Chase. She normally carried a one shot pistol strapped to her ankle but had left it in her room. It was easy to fall into the trance of this place. She was glad that Chase was so attentive. With the carriage barely a spec on the horizon, she felt Chase relax.
    “It’s okay, Brock’s with them.”
    Amelia squinted now able to make out two dots coming closer. How the hell can he see that far to know that is Brock?
    “Must be the Reynolds.” Warren stated as he relaxed as well. Amelia lifted an eyebrow. She was curious to meet Thomas’ family. Sabrina had informed