Page 41 of Here With Me

Jase didn’t speak of his father much, so I only know the bits and pieces he shared every now and then.

“Whether or not he does, I’m not goin’ anywhere.” He meets my gaze, a silent promise that he’s here to stay regardless. “That goes for you too, Noah. I know the circumstances make it impossible for us to be anythin’ more than employees or friends, but I’m here for whatever ya need.”

My heart flutters, and God, do I wish things were different. I wish I wasn’t standing here with a man I wanted and fighting the urge to kiss him. The attraction we shared from the start is still there, and it’s no secret Fisher feels the same.

We’re so screwed.

ChapterTen

Fisher

After Noah leaves to help Mallory and Serena with Miss Swift, I finish Shelby’s hooves and continue working the rest of the day. Rudy and Trey, another ranch hand, walk the horses for me between switching them out. I don’t get as many done as I’d hoped with how much extra time it takes to get into a routine. Between the Hollises and my other clients from Mr. Ryan, I’ll be plenty busy this summer playing catch-up.

I only see Noah a few more times between her coming and going from the training center and corral. It’s better for the sake of therulesand the history between her and my son that we don’t see each other, but she consumes my mind either way.

Just as I’m cleaning up my rig and putting my supplies away, Mr. and Mrs. Hollis appear in their truck and walk toward me with bowls of Tupperware in their hands.

“How was your first day?” Garrett asks.

“Great. Everyone was very nice and welcomin’.” I smile as Dena sets down one of her dishes.

“Noah told me you haven’t stopped to eat, so I brought leftovers from supper. You can help yourself anytime to the house for food or eat at The Lodge.”

“Oh, that’s not necessary.”

“I insist,” she says.

“Either you do as she says or she’ll just bring ya leftovers each night and spoon-feed you against your own free will,” Garrett says, chuckling.

“There’s chicken and sausage gumbo, rice, and peach cobbler for dessert.”

“Mrs. Hollis, this is too much. Are ya sure?”

She pats my arm with a genuine smile. “Cookin’ for my family and friends is my love language.”

Grinning, I nod. “Thank you. I appreciate it.”

We chat for a few more minutes, then Dena invites me to Sunday night supper. I try to get out of it, knowing it’ll make things awkward with Noah, but that woman doesn’t take no for an answer. She’s headstrong, just like her daughter. They excuse themselves and go inside the barn. Moments later, I hear them chatting with Ayden and Trey.

Once I lock up the rig and place the leftovers in my truck, I pull out my phone.

Fisher

Thanks for sending your mom with food. It smells delicious.

I look over at the containers and smile at the first home-cooked meal I’ve had in years.

Noah

Sorry for not warning you. As soon as I mentioned you didn’t take a break all day, she was already putting the food in containers for you.

Fisher

So you were keeping an eye on me, huh?

Noah

No. I just happened to notice your truck didn’t leave.