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True Love at Silver Creek Ranch(81)



“I do. Even when we’re working together. He’s funny, and we never run out of things to talk about.”

“Sounds like it’s more than physical,” Monica pointed out.

“Because it is—it’s friendship. And it feels good.”

“As long as you’re happy,” Emily said, regarding her with worry.

Brooke grinned and touched both their arms. “I’m happy,” she insisted. “He makes me feel incredibly sexy and beautiful.”

When a customer entered and approached the counter, Monica got up to help. Soon she was opening coolers, displaying various bouquets that the rushed man could choose from. After ringing up the purchase, she sat back down and toyed with her celery sticks. “So I guess you didn’t appreciate the date with LeVar?”

“It wasn’t a date, and you know it,” Brooke said, wearing a mock frown. “You ambushed, then deserted me.”

“Well, I didn’t know you already had a guy in your bed,” Monica pointed out.

“And then Adam showed up at the pool tournament,” Brooke confessed. “It was pretty awkward.”

“Sounds like it would have been fun to watch,” Monica told Emily. “Guess I left too early. Did they fight over you?”

Brooke just blinked at her, then they all burst into laughter.

Monica saw to a couple more customers, and when she returned, Brooke started packing up. “I can’t stay much longer. Tyler will be coming after school.”

Emily sighed. “Okay, I’ll admit it, I feel bad Steph didn’t come to me for help with Tyler’s community service.” She lifted a hand. “And yes, I know, he probably wouldn’t have enjoyed working in a bakery.”

“No, he wouldn’t have,” Brooke insisted gently. “She really wants to help this kid, and I can’t help admiring her. I think she’s gaining a lot of maturity from this, maybe seeing how good she’s got it with a loving family.”

“True,” Emily admitted. “How’s Tyler doing?”

“It’s only been one day. I’m just teaching him about horses for now. But he’s been sort of respectful, and that’s a good thing. It probably helped that Adam worked with us, too.”

“Not one of your brothers?” Monica asked curiously.

“Nope. I admit, I was surprised. I didn’t think Adam would want to be involved with a punk kid, but he’s incredibly patient, yet firm.”

“He was a sergeant in the Marines,” Emily pointed out. “He’s used to dealing with new recruits.”

Brooke had a fleeting thought about Adam’s military past. After everything he’d told her, she thought he might have stayed as far away from Tyler as possible, but he hadn’t. Surely that was a good sign. But she couldn’t discuss his confidences, so it was time to change the subject. “Speaking of my brothers . . . Nate is insufferably happy.”

Emily grinned.

“He’s left the ranch at almost a decent hour instead of lingering too long these last couple days. He’s actually delegating, which is something that idiot brother of mine needed to do more of. You’re good for him. How are you enjoying setting up house?”

Emily blushed. “It’s wonderful being together. I keep hoping you two will find someone, fall in love, and be just as happy.” She hesitated. “Or maybe find someone who can make you happy in every way.”

“I don’t know if I’m ready for that, Em,” Brooke said. “I don’t know about her,” she added, pointing with her thumb at Monica.

“It’s Christmas—I’m too busy,” Monica insisted. “I never put any more pressure on myself during the holidays than I have to. And then I’m taking an online class in January for the flower side of my business.”

“Wow, that’s a lot of denial,” Emily said. “Maybe a nice guy will rent my apartment, and you’ll hit it off.”

“So you’re advertising it already?” Brooke asked.

Some of her disappointment must have leaked through because both women turned to stare at her.

“Why? Are you interested?” Emily leaned forward with eagerness.

Brooke sighed. “I . . . maybe. Interested, anyway. But it’s just not easy to leave my mom. She’s getting back on her feet, but . . . a relapse could happen anytime.”

“You work there all day, every day,” Monica pointed out. “You see her more than most of us ever see our moms.”

“And you’ll only live a couple miles away,” Emily added. “Oh, say you’ll rent it. I was really worried about a stranger being right above my bakery.”