Dalton, Tymber - Hernando Heat (Siren Publishing Ménage Amour) Read Online Free PDF Page B

for food. When he finished, she looked at the men. “Why don’t we enjoy our dinner, and then I’ll give you my answer when you take me home? By then we should all know if we’d at least like each other or not. You might decide you don’t want me working for you after talking to me for a while.”
    Mason grinned, an easy, open look. Joe’s sad smile nearly broke her heart. Mason said, “Katie, believe me, we’ll still like you after dinner.”

    * * * *

    By the time they finished dinner, she did feel comfortable saying she enjoyed the company of both men. Despite her earlier wanton thought of letting both men court her, the reality of the situation sank home. She didn’t want herself, nor either man, to be spoken ill of. Not that she cared so much what people said about her, but as a respected businessman, Joe had a reputation to preserve. Not to mention that Mason was a deputy in line to be sheriff, if town rumors were accurate.
    As Reverend Anderson made his rounds of the attendees and approached where they sat, an idea formed in her mind.
    The older man smiled at her and shook her hand as he pulled up a chair. “I hear you had quite the scare this morning, Katie.”
    She nodded. “Yes, unfortunately.”
    “I’m glad you weren’t harmed.” He glanced at the two men. “I don’t see you boys in my church pews very often.”
    Mason reddened slightly in the face. “Joe has to work the ranch because his men get the day off. I’m usually helping out on the ranch on my day off, Reverend.”
    The minister smiled. “Then that’s an admirable excuse, and perfectly acceptable. I grew up on a ranch myself. I understand the duties.”
    He stood to go, but she reached out and stayed him. “Reverend, I have a question for you.”
    He relaxed in his seat. “Of course, Katie.”
    She glanced at the two men. “Mr. Lansing and Deputy Carlisle have made me an interesting and generous offer, but I’d like your opinion before I give them my answer.”
    The reverend looked curious but nodded. “All right.”
    “Would there be anything improper about me moving in with them to be their housekeeper, and still run my shop?”
    “You mean, live with them?”
    “In a private room of her own, of course,” Mason quickly added.
    Reverend Anderson smiled. “Are you asking me if I think lips will flap and mouths will run?”
    Her turn to redden in the face. She nodded.
    He laughed and patted her arm. “How about I spread the word that it was my suggestion? I personally think it’s a good idea. You’re a widow, and they’re men with honorable reputations.” His expression darkened as his voice dropped. “I’ve heard stories about your former father-in-law, Katie. Frankly, I’m surprised he hasn’t tried to hurt you sooner. If you don’t move in with these boys, you’ll end up with an armed posse taking turns sitting on your back porch every night. There are plenty of men here in town who’d like a chance at the son of a gun who tried to hurt you.”
    She glanced at the cousins, who nodded in agreement.
    The reverend’s smile returned. “So does that answer your question for you?”
    “Yes, sir. Thank you, it does.” She looked at the cousins. “So when would you like me to move in?”

    * * * *

    She didn’t have a lot in the way of personal belongings to move. Joe and Mason had ridden their horses to town, so Joe rode back home to fetch their wagon while Mason stayed behind with her and helped her pack.
    And protect her.
    She picked up her picture of Paul and stared at it.
    “Was that your husband?” Mason asked.
    She sadly nodded as she let her fingers caress the frame. “Yes. He was a good man. I truly loved him.” She carefully laid it in her trunk, padded by a dress so it wouldn’t get damaged.
    “How’d he die, if you don’t mind me asking?”
    “Pneumonia.” She felt her melancholy return for the first time that evening. Talking and laughing with the two men had made her feel alive, for once.