Come Closer, Cowboy. Debbi Rawlins

we need to ask Dexter before he leaves?”

      Gunner turned to eye the bull, showing no reaction to the error she’d made by using we. “I would’ve thought you’d have oiled that thing up before bringing it.”

      “Well, son, I surely did just that.” Dexter sounded defensive.

      “Okay. I believe you.” Gunner nodded. “But that tells me we’ve got a problem. Whatever is causing the squeaking is gonna need more work than a simple servicing.”

      Mallory hadn’t thought of that.

      Dexter’s face turned red. “I reckon you got a point.”

      “I take care of all the trucks and equipment at the Bar T,” Brady said. “Can’t promise I’ll know what’s wrong but I can have a look if you want.”

      He’d addressed Gunner, not Mallory, which irked her to no end. Aware she was partly to blame, she kept her cool and just listened to the men discuss what needed to be done. She liked to think she was independent, perfectly capable of running her own business, and mostly she did a good job. But for the past year she’d relied on Gunner for so many little things.

      Once he’d given her a ride when her car was in the shop. Another time she’d asked his advice on whether or not to add a second pool table at the Renegade. Just minor things, but she couldn’t deny she’d established a pattern.

      She realized she’d blanked out of the conversation when she saw Gunner and Dexter shake hands. The older man gave her a polite nod and left.

      “I assume that’s okay with you,” Gunner said, the amusement in his eyes making it clear he knew she’d zoned out.

      “Of course, or I would’ve said something.” She turned to Brady. “Will you have time to look at it soon? I’ll pay you whatever you think is fair.”

      The look Brady and Tom exchanged told her that was the part she’d missed.

      Gunner turned to the two men. “You guys can take off. I’ve got it from here.”

      Brady frowned. “Sadie thought you might need some help moving into your new place,” he said to Mallory. “Tom and I planned on giving you a hand.”

      “That’s really nice.” Mallory was genuinely touched and sorely tempted to accept their offer. Giving them each a smile, she shook her head. “I wouldn’t feel right ruining your day off. You still get free drinks, though, so don’t forget,” she said and started herding them toward the door.

      Brady seemed hesitant, glancing at Gunner, who hadn’t moved. “It’s really no trouble.”

      “Well, come on.” She motioned for Gunner. “I’m locking up.”

      “Good.” He folded his arms across his chest. “We need to talk.”