Page 39 of The Reason I Married Him
“Well, if you want to sit in water and stare at your dick, just let me know. I would be more than happy to direct you toward the Epsom salts.”
“If I see you tomorrow, you’ll know I’m desperate.”
We head toward the register, and I set the items down. Abel checks me out and slips the items in my brown paper bag.
When I pay with my card, he says, “How is Aubree taking to the help?”
“What do you think?” Hayes says before I can even open my mouth.
“My guess is, not well.” Then Abel looks me in the eyes and says, “You here to take over the farm?”
“What?” I ask, brows creased. “No, why would you think that?”
“When they found out that you owned part of the land, they weren’t too happy about it. I know Aubree even saw a lawyer to see what could be done.”
“Really?” I ask.
Hayes nods. “Yeah, she’s terrified that she might lose it to you.”
I shake my head. “Nah, I don’t want to take anything from her. I’m honestly really impressed with what she’s accomplished. I just figured I owe it to my brother to be a part of it in some way.”
Okay, I know that’s a lie. You don’t have to point it out.And sure, do I feel bad lying to these guys? Of course I do, but like I said, it’s all part of the plan. Aubree will get her farm. I just need to weasel my way in first to get what I need. Don’t fucking judge me.
“Have you told her that?”
“Uhh, maybe?” I ask. “Honestly, today is pretty murky, but I’ll be sure to tell her tomorrow.”
“Probably a good idea. I know it’s something they were all worried about. When I heard that you were in town, I texted Ryland, and he said you came over last night and had a great visit.”
“Ryland is a hell of a guy. They didn’t have to welcome me in like they did. The only one who wasn’t welcoming was Aubree, but I can understand why. I’ll work on that.”
“Smart man,” Abel says. “All right, I’m heading out. See you around, Wyatt.”
“Yeah, maybe tomorrow.” I smirk. “You know, for the dick staring.”
“Weird way to put it, man,” Abel says, shaking his head and laughing.
Hayes and I walk out of the pharmacy together and head toward The Hot Pickle. “The inn is that way,” Hayes says.
“Going to grab a sub for dinner.”
He nods. “Okay, then I’ll part ways with you.”
“Thanks for the chat and helping me around town.”
“Anytime,” he says.
“Oh hey.” I step closer and say, “What do you think about that Rodney guy? Safe to be around?”
Hayes grins. “Did he ask you if you liked trains?”
“Approached me right on the street, nearly made me wet myself.”
Hayes lets out a boisterous laugh. “Rodney is an awesome guy. Eccentric, slightly deranged at times, but in a fun,I’m old and crotchetyway. But he’s harmless, just really invested in trains.”
“Seemed like it. And what about Ethel? This morning, she left a note under my door telling me how excited she was that I was staying at her inn.”
“Also a great lady. Will spread gossip like it’s her job and has no problem poking her nose into your business. Careful what you say around her. She’ll never repeat it wrong, but she will repeat it.”
