Chapter 4.1

“Aw, shucks, ma’am,” he said in his best imitation of a Texas drawl. “Too good-looking for your own good, maybe,” she added.

“And that means I should have been married by now?”

“Why not? You look like you could have any woman you want. What the devil are you doing in Podunk, Texas, hanging around somebody like me?”

“Hey, don’t sell yourself short, boss. What do you mean, somebody like you?”

She shrugged. “You know. Single mother, average looks, workaholic.” Wade shook his head slowly. “You obviously don’t see yourself the way

I see you.”

“Oh? And how is that?”

“Now who’s fishing for compliments?” he teased. “Touché.”

“But to answer your question—”

“No, please.” She rolled her eyes and waved her hands. “Forget I asked.”

“If you get to embarrass me, I get to embarrass you,” he said with a smile.

“I didn’t notice you blushing.” “I was blushing on the inside.” “Do tell.”

“You’re trying to sidetrack me.” “Is it working?”

Wade looked her right in the eye. “When I look at you I see a very at