Total pages in book: 74
Estimated words: 68743 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 344(@200wpm)___ 275(@250wpm)___ 229(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 68743 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 344(@200wpm)___ 275(@250wpm)___ 229(@300wpm)
Asher propped himself on one arm. “She’s a reporter and she hasn’t pressured you for your story or any information about where you are?”
“No, she hasn’t. That’s why I want to get to know her better. To see if she’s someone I can be friends with. I don’t have many of those,” she reminded him.
He relaxed again and she lay in the crook of his arm. “In this new job, I’m sure you’ll meet people who like you for the amazing woman you are.”
She smiled at his praise. “Has Harrison mentioned what he thinks about Winter?” Because he’d asked Nikki a lot of questions about the reporter.
“He said she’s gorgeous. That’s about it.”
Nikki wrinkled her nose. “Her looks? That’s all he’s said about her?”
Asher let out a laugh. “Harrison’s a player. That’s what he notices first. One day he’ll wake up and realize there’s someone with depth he can be interested in for more than a quick one-night stand.”
Their conversation drifted off and Nikki lay breathing in Asher’s scent and appreciating the security of lying in his arms.
* * *
Nikki must have fallen asleep because next thing she knew, sunlight was streaming through the windows in Asher’s bedroom. He was still out, his big body wrapped around hers, his breathing even. Another night of sleep. She might even set a record for herself of consecutive nights… as long as she was in Asher’s bed.
Nope. She couldn’t think about that. Instead, she glanced at the small digital clock on the nightstand. Six a.m. She didn’t want Asher’s parents to realize she’d slept in his room. Hopefully, she could sneak upstairs before Michael or Serenity saw her coming out of here. Though they were adults, she’d still be embarrassed if she ran into them.
A small snore escaped from Asher, and she held back a laugh as she slipped out of his bed. She gathered her clothes and pulled on her undergarments. One of Asher’s button-downs lay on a chair in the corner. At this point she wasn’t sure what was worse. Her dress from last night or Asher’s shirt.
Since her dress looked horribly wrinkled, she chose Asher’s shirt. In the bathroom, she splashed her face and fixed her hair as best she could before tipping her head at the dog, who hopped off and followed her out.
Nikki already heard the sounds of Maggie humming in the kitchen, and Lucky headed in that direction. Knowing the sweet woman would let the dog out and feed him, Nikki turned toward the stairs.
The walk to her room felt like it took longer than usual, but she didn’t run into anyone until she reached her door.
Just as Zach stepped out of his room.
“Hello there,” he said, wearing a pair of shorts and a tee shirt, his hair still mussed from sleep.
“Hi.” She braced herself for a comment about her sneaking into her room this morning, but he merely smiled.
“I’m going to get some coffee. Can I bring a cup back for you?” he asked.
She nodded. “That would be great. I’m going to jump in the shower, so would you leave it outside the door and I’ll grab it?”
“Will do. And one more thing,” Zach said.
“Yes?” she asked warily.
“I was hoping you, Asher, and I could talk later?” he asked.
She tilted her head to the side. “About?”
“Your… situation,” he said delicately. “Let’s just say I have skills, and I’d like to help you find out who posted the pictures.”
She felt a blush rise to her cheeks, but she managed to laugh at his wording. “Yes, I’ve heard you have expertise in many things beyond owning a bar. And I’d appreciate the help.”
“Sure thing, pretty girl.” He winked at her. “See you at breakfast,” he said and headed downstairs whistling.
She stepped into her room, shut the door, and leaned back against it. Zach, a stranger, wanted to help her.
In her world, well, that of her parents, help and aid were words used in campaign ads. In reality, they did what was best for themselves. She had no idea how Derek had become his own man, but thank goodness he had. Because Nikki had modeled herself after the brother she admired. No pun intended.
If Zach was willing to help with her problem, she would gratefully take him up on the offer.
* * *
Asher woke up alone, immediately realizing Nikki had snuck out early and why. He refused to think about how much he liked having her in his bed. Instead, he got up, took a long, hot shower, and dressed for the day. He was about to head to the kitchen to meet his parents for breakfast when his cell rang.
Derek’s name flashed on the screen.
Asher took the call, and by the time he hung up, his stomach was churning and he didn’t want to eat. Still, he joined everyone and drank coffee, knowing he was going to need the caffeine. Nikki was sitting with Serenity, talking, laughing, and enjoying her food.