Page 40 of Fated to the Wolf Cowboy

“No, it’s just common sense.”

“Maybe in the city, but not around here. Look, if you really aren’t comfortable with this, I’m not going to force you. I have several acres myself and most is pretty lush and wooded. It’s still better than sleeping out on the rocky range. Up to you. The clinic is always available as well.”

I scrunched my nose in disdain. “I’ve already experienced that bed.”

“Yeah, I’d rather sleep outside too. Or better still, in a nice, warm, cozy bed. You really are welcome.”

“Why is everyone being so nice to me?”

She shrugged. “Curiosity.”

“Seriously?”

“Of course. It’s not every day a girl in Chistian Louboutin pointy toed pumps wanders into our territory. That’s going to come with a lot of questions, and we want answers.”

She was trying to make light of the situation, but it left a sour taste in my mouth. The last thing I wanted was for these people to go poking around in my past.

What if Lily and Thomas reached out to Morris?

The trackers could easily find me here because I stuck out like a sore thumb.

“Okay,” I finally said. “If you’re sure it’s not a problem, I will take you up on the offer. I could use a good night’s sleep before hitting the road again.”

“Okay then.”

Peyton had admitted to having questions and wanting answers, but she didn’t ask or press me to talk. There was something very comforting about her. It was a bit unnerving, but also nice. I didn’t trust people easily, but something in my gut told me I could trust her.

“Is there a lock on the door?” I blurted out.

“Of course. And if you need a second, I’ll have Oliver install one real fast. He’s my mate and rather handy.”

When we arrived at the house, I couldn’t believe how huge it was. The big front porch was like something I’d only ever seen on television. I had no idea places like this even existed in real life.

It truly felt like I’d stepped into some sort of alternate universe. At any second people might start appearing out of nowhere and break out into song or something.

“Thank you,” I told her.

“It really is no problem. Come on, I’ll show you to your room. You will have to share a bathroom. Sorry about that.”

“It’s okay. I mean, at least it’s a bathroom. I’m assuming running water and all.” I was only making a joke, but then after today, I really wasn’t sure anymore.

She laughed easily and set my nerves to rest.

“Hot water and everything.”

All I had was my backpack which contained everything I owned. I picked it up off the floorboard and followed her into the house. The place was unreal.

“It’s like I just stepped into a movie,” I whispered reverently.

“I know, right?” Peyton said excitedly. “Every time I come home, I still feel that way. This place is literally my childhood dream come true. Oliver and the boys did such a wonderful job remodeling it too. It’s everything I ever wanted.”

“It’s beautiful.”

“Come on, I’ll show you to your room.”

Halfway up the stairs, the front door opened. We both looked back.

“Oh good. You’re home. Kenneth, this is Tricia. She’s going to be sleeping in your room tonight.”