Read Online The Intriguing Billionaire Cowboy [Wives for the Western Billionaires 8] (Siren Publishing Everlasting Classic) by Paige Cameron - Free Book Online

down off the desk and rose.
    “You don’t have to stand whenever I come in, Sheriff.”
    “I know. But my mom drilled manners into me. Even though she’s been gone five years, I still know she’s watching and will whisper in my ear if I don’t show what manners she taught me.”
    “The mothers in this town seem to have a lot of influence on their children, especially the men.”
    “And they raise their daughters to have the same effect.”
    “Your wife still won’t let you eat at Millie’s.”
    “No, this healthy diet is lasting longer than it has before.” He pretended to grumble. “I’m going for a walkabout through town. I’ll leave my car parked out front. Anyone not familiar with my routine will think I’m inside the office.” He handed Sylvia a rifle. “You know how to shoot one of these?”
    “Yes.”
    “Don’t hesitate to use it if you need to. Keep it on the desk. If this woman came into the office you might not get to that little gun in your ankle holster.” He waved and left.
    She liked the feel of the rifle. She appreciated his forethought and that he wasn’t going to hover over her. The phone rang, starting her day. Calls came in more frequently than usual.
    One man said his cow was missing and he was sure his neighbor, Abe, had stolen it. She’d promised to give Sheriff Grady the message as soon as he got back. Another call was from a woman whose cat had gone up the tree, again. Sylvia wondered what tree but didn’t ask. She called the deputy in that area. He chuckled and said they had to rescue that damn cat at least once a week.
    The calls fascinated Sylvia. Sheriff Grady was apparently the man to go to for any problem, no matter how weird. Finally when the phone quieted, she worked on some letters she’d been asked to type. When the door opened, she glanced up.
    “It’s time for lunch.” Sam walked inside, and she couldn’t stop herself from smiling.
    “Don’t you ever work anymore?”
    “I’m enjoying taking time off. My foreman is happier than I’ve ever seen him. All is right in my world. How about you?”
    “The job is going well. It’s more interesting than I expected it to be. This town is populated with some strange people.”
    “I suppose you’re right, but we just accept others as they are and try to deal with their peculiarities.”
    “In other words, live and let live.”
    “True. Are you tired of Millie’s? We can go to the pizza shop.”
    “No. I like Millie and her place. But if I keep eating her food, then I’ll have to start exercising.”
    “I’d be glad to help out with that.”
    “Your type of exercise wasn’t what I was considering.”
    Liar, it’s all you can think about.
    “Too bad.” He put his hand at her waist as they walked across the street and turned toward Millie’s. “Grace and I are going shopping this afternoon in Wagon Wheel. Do you want to come along?”
    “I’m not my own boss like you are. I have a job to do.”
    “Sheriff Grady will let you off.”
    “I don’t want to ask for favors. And I like my job. Grace can help you with whatever you want for your house.”
    Sam shrugged and waved at Millie as they stepped into the crowded restaurant. A waitress led them to a booth and left the menus.
    After they’d ordered, Sam sat back and studied her. “You are going to wish you’d given more input after we marry and settle in my house. You’ll want to change things. But I’ll say no, you had your chance to pick what you liked. You passed it up.”
    “You are a stubborn, determined man. I’m not the homey type. If by some miracle you changed my mind about leaving this lovely little town, I still wouldn’t instantly become the type of wife you deserve.”
    “How do you know what type I want?”
    “I’ve met your sisters-in-law. They all love being at home, cooking, cleaning, having babies. The thought makes me want to run far away.”
    “You don’t want children?”
    “I never have before.” I have no intention