Page 58 of The Texas Ranger: Saddled Up
She went back inside and went straight into the kitchen, coming back with Pedora’s secret stash of dandelion wine and two mason jars. She sat next to Tansy on the couch, popped the cork and poured a small amount into each glass.
“Holy cow, I haven’t had any of this since…well, since you and I snuck a bottle on graduation day.” She took a sip andwinced. “Now I know why I haven’t. It’s like drinking lighter fluid.”
“Here, I’ll take it.” Aasia started to reach for Tansy’s glass, but she pulled it out of reach.
“Not so fast.” She cupped the glass and took another drink. “It goes down easier after a while.”
Aasia set her full glass down on the table. “So why are you here?”
“I’m sorry. I had no clue that you’d have Bear with you.” Tansy rubbed her temple. “I’m a shitty friend. I should have called first.”
“You’re my best friend. You’re always welcome. What’s happened?”
“What isn’t wrong?” Tansy cuddled up on the corner of the couch and picked up the kitten to place on her lap. “I think I’m in love.”
“With the kitten?”
“He’s awfully precious, but no. I’m talking human and the male variety.”
Aasia pulled her legs under her. “Who’s the lucky guy?”
“I can’t say. Yet.” Tansy shifted her gaze.
“Can’t say? You came here to tell me you’re in love and you can’t tell me with who? This couldn’t wait?” Aasia wasn’t following.
Tansy raised a brow. “You’re my best friend. I tell you everything.”
“Obviously you don’t.”
“When I do tell you who he is you’ll understand. Just be patient. So, it appears you might be in love too.”
Aasia laughed. “That’s a stretch. More like in lust.”
Tansy’s smile softened. “He certainly looks at you in that way…you know, like he’d enjoy licking you like an ice cream cone.”
“Yes, I agree. I would have enjoyed finding out.” Aasia wagged her brows.
“Don’t worry. There’s tomorrow.”
“Did you eavesdrop while we were on the porch, Tans?”
“Maybe. I also noticed how you looked at him. There’s something there, honey.” Tansy poured more wine.
“Behave and stop trying to handle my affairs.”
“But you are into him—really into him, aren’t you?”
Aasia shrugged. “I like how I know he’ll be there for me, the way he makes me laugh, and he kisses…well, I’m hooked. But, love? It couldn’t be possible.”
“Why not?”
“It’s too soon. Bentley and I—”
“Oh, please!” Tansy groaned and rolled her eyes. “Can we forget that he existed?”
“I think it’s great that we’re both finally seeing our worth. Whomever this mystery guy is I hope he realizes how lucky he is to have you.”
Tansy scooted over and laid her head on Aasia’s shoulder. “I’m lucky because I have you in my life.”
