Page 37 of Off-Limits Love

He hit Send and then added,

If you don’t mind her being around me. I get that dating is tricky with kids.

He hit Send again before swallowing his tongue because he’d used the worddatingas if they were dating and— Holy mother of God.

I mean—I get that you might not want Emi around men because of your ex, but if she’d like to try riding a horse, I can make it happen. That’s all.

He let out a loud groan and fell back among the couch cushions.

What an idiot.

Did it make him sound needy? He sounded needy, right?

The phone buzzed in his hand, and he was afraid to look. Finally he worked up the nerve.

I’ll think about it, but I’d like to be comfortable myself and have the hang of it before I take Emi along.

Finn took a cleansing breath and hoped it helped his nerve-addled senses. Being able to take Mak on a ride? Just the two of them?

Sounds like a plan. I’ll look at the schedule and text you the openings.

He paused then added,

Things good over there? No more issues with your ex?

Dots appeared and then disappeared. Then nothing. What was that about? If Brad had come back and?—

He’s threatening to take custody as always. I think it’s a bluff, but I’ll be honest; it’s a good one. The thought terrifies me.

Her ex was a jerk who would undoubtedly use Emi as a threat until she turned eighteen. And maybe thereafter.

You can’t let him run your life. But I understand the fear.

I don’t know what I’d do if he took her away.

He heard Mak’s voice in his head, saying the words. Heard the fear she felt as a mother.

Remember, he just got a car that isn’t kid friendly. He wouldn’t have done that if he planned on taking her.

True. Thank you for reminding me of that. I hope that’s the case.

Finn stared at the phone, brain tripping over itself trying to think of something to say that might help soothe her.

My family knows a good attorney if you need him.

As far as a conversation goes, it wasn’t exactly flirtatious or sexting, but—this was more important, right? Reassuring her. Letting her know she had people who had her back and supported her. Were willing to help her.

Thank you. I’ll keep that in mind.

Finn?

Yeah?

I’m glad you’re still talking to me.

A smile pulled at his lips.

I wasn’t sure you’d welcome a chat given how you tore out of the party yesterday.