Read Online Only His by Susan Mallery - Free Book Online Page B

information. But even if the mayor did know the truth, Nevada knew she wouldn’t share it with Will.
    â€œI don’t have any dating advice when it comes to Jo,” she admitted. “I guess you’re on your own. I will warn you not to hurt her. She’s one of us and we protect our own.” Will was a good guy and she liked him, but family came first.
    He nodded slowly. “I’m glad she has friends looking out for her.”
    â€œOne of the advantages of a small town. Are you finding it enjoyable here, or are the walls closing in?”
    â€œI like it. I heard there’s going to be a festival soon. I’m looking forward to it.”
    â€œDon’t worry. If you miss this one, there will be another one in the next couple of weeks. We’re known for our festivals.”
    She heard someone on the steps, then the trailer door opened. She expected one of the guys to walk in, but instead Tucker stepped through the doorway.
    Will glanced at his watch. “Nearly noon. Going for a personal best?”
    â€œI was filing paperwork at city hall. Fool’s Gold hasn’t embraced the digital age.” He looked at Nevada. “Sorry. I meant to be here on your first morning. Did Will get you settled?”
    â€œYes. I’m doing fine. Don’t worry about it.”
    She managed to speak the words and act normal, but her gaze settled on the faint shadow of a bruise on his jaw.
    News of Ethan hitting Tucker had spread quickly. Outside of her immediate family, no one knew the reason, which left people speculating.
    Will excused himself to talk to the surveyor. For a second, Nevada thought about escaping with him, but knew she had to talk to Tucker eventually.
    â€œI’m sorry about what happened with my brother,” she said as soon as the door closed behind Will.
    Tucker rubbed his jaw. “He’s good. Nailed me one.”
    She did her best to remind herself that there was no reason to get embarrassed. Her brother had been looking out for her and there was nothing bad in that. It was just the idea of them fighting in public that made her squirm. And everyone knowing why.
    â€œHe shouldn’t have hit you.”
    â€œIf the situation had been reversed, I would have done the same.”
    She rolled her eyes. “Because you couldn’t simply have a conversation? I’m not sorry he defended me, but there were a lot better ways to do it.”
    â€œI don’t agree with that, but okay.” He crossed to the small refrigerator and pulled out a bottle of water.“Ethan did say something interesting,” he told her, before pausing to drink.
    Panic exploded, making her chest tighten. She waited, hoping it wasn’t anything hideous. Like, “Nevada never got over you,” or, “It’s kind of funny how she was so in love with you and you only had eyes for Cat.” Not that Ethan would know any of that, but still.
    Tucker lowered the bottle and looked at her. “He said it was your first time.”
    Involuntary reactions were a bitch, she thought grimly as she felt color flare on her cheeks. She ignored the sensation, grabbed her sandwich and held it up like a pitiful protective shield.
    â€œDon’t flatter yourself,” she hedged. “I had a boyfriend in high school.”
    Tucker studied her for a second, relief battling with concern. “You sure?”
    â€œIt’s something I would remember.” She took a bite of her sandwich and forced herself to chew. After she swallowed, she managed a faint laugh. “Don’t sweat it. You were not my first time.”
    â€œGood. Because that would have made a difference.”
    â€œYou were pretty drunk. I don’t think that kind of information would have helped.”
    â€œProbably not.” He shook his head. “So we’re done talking about this?”
    â€œYou’re the one who brought it up. But, yes, we can be