“You’re not actually serious.” He was frowning now.
“I am. People love you and want to be near you.”
“No, they don’t.” Her words made him uncomfortable.
“Luke, you’re like Ryker Falls’s favorite son.”
“Cut it out.” He was glaring at her now. “Have you forgotten my earlier years?”
“But I think that’s what makes you even more popular. You stayed and turned your life around. They respect you for that, especially the women,” she added.
“You having fun?”
“Strangely, yes.”
A small smile played around his mouth, and then it was gone.
“I hope Nixon is okay.”
“Me too. Luke?”
His eyes held hers.
“I really am sorry about all the stuff you went through and are going through now, but I just know it’s going to be okay. Know Nixon will fit right into your life.”
“How do you figure?” His eyes locked on hers.
“You have so much to share with him now. Love, a good life. People in your corner. What you were doesn’t define you or your brothers anymore; it makes you the good, strong men you are today.”
“Thanks for saying that it means a lot.”
“You’re welcome.”
He shrugged, then stood. “I better let you get some sleep, seeing as you have to fly us back tomorrow.”
She rose too and went to the door with him. It was Quinn who moved closer. Quinn who put her arms around him and held on. He exhaled loudly. Luke’s body slumped into hers and his arms went around her.
“I’m not good at this, but I felt like you needed a hug.”
“You do all right,” he said into her neck. “Mind if I just stay here for a while?”
“Fine with me.” And it was, because that large, hard body pressed to hers was more than okay. Better than okay. It felt right.
Everything inside her started to hum. Quinn had slept with a few men, but not many. She was usually working, training. Right in that moment, she wanted Luke Trainer. Wanted him more than she’d wanted any man before him.