Free Mom in the Middle by Mae Nunn

or money for barrel racing in years.” She tilted her head back to see into the taller man’s eyes; a wistful smile flickered at the corners of her lips. “But it’s nice that you remember.”
    â€œIt’s not likely I’d forget after all the bragging your dad used to do about your rankings. He thought you could have gone pro. And I always suspected you were an urban cowgirl at heart. Matter of fact, I thought maybe this hardware-store cowboy was your beau.” He angled his head downward and cocked an eyebrow, obviously a reference to Guy’s boots. Boots in Texas seemed to be a functional thing. Guy was starting to feel guilty that his were only about fashion and comfort.
    â€œOh, no.” Abby shook her head vigorously, alittle too much so for Guy’s ego. Was it that bad having somebody think she might actually be with him voluntarily?

Chapter Six
    â€œM r. Hardy and I are only acquainted because Mama fell and broke her hip in his store and he’s been helping Dad around the house while she recovers.” Abby turned wide brown eyes on Guy.
    â€œIs that a fact?” Patrick narrowed his dark gaze and shifted his weight toward the subject of his examination. “So you’re just staying close out of professional duty?”
    The two waited for a response from Guy.
    He felt like a stink bug trapped under a jelly jar. Scrutiny was one thing, but the look on the Texas Turbo’s face was bordering something akin to suspicion. Guy’s polo-style shirt began to feel uncomfortably snug and warm. He was definitely not accustomed to experiencing heat for that purpose. Especially since it was being ignited by Abby herself.
    First she’d been emphatic that there was nothing personal between them, then she’d called him Mister for crying out loud, and now she’d gotten this man who was infamous for his aggressively competitive nature on high alert. Was there even a slim chance he was losing his ability to charm a female? Guy really needed a gaggle check. He could hear Casey cackling already, especially when she learned it was Curbo the Turbo impatiently jangling keys at her brother.
    â€œQuite honestly, sir, it started as professional concern, but the Reagans are a wonderful family. It’s a pleasure to be around them.”
    Patrick straightened. The furrows between his eyes relaxed.
    â€œIn that case…” He pulled the set from the front right pocket of his well-worn jeans. Without notice he tossed the keys skyward. Guy scooped them from the air, grasping the fish-shaped foam object that would keep the set afloat if dropped overboard.
    Patrick continued, “…Take this little lady for a boat ride. I have a feeling it’s something she needs, whether she’ll admit it or not.” He beamed affectionately at Abby and the smile of gratitude she returned made Guy’s heart ache. This girl really wasn’t used to people doing nice things for her, something the women in his life had long taken for granted.
    â€œThat really isn’t necessary.” She tried to sound convincing, but the adorable flush of anticipation that rushed into her cheeks said otherwise.
    â€œIt’s not only necessary, it’s an order. Take the woody.” He pointed toward the dock. “She’s got a full tank and you’ll find bait and everything else youneed in the boathouse.” He nodded at Guy. “I won’t take no for an answer so get her out of here before she makes the effort.”
    Patrick turned and with the greyhound at his heels walked twenty paces to a wide entrance in the white fence, removed the padlock and swung the gate open.
    â€œWhat about our corn dogs?” Abby asked, her bottom lip protruding in a fake pout.
    â€œHelp yourself.” He motioned toward the trailer.
    Abby bounded up the short row of steps and disappeared inside the ancient trailer. She emerged moments later carrying a brown paper sack