“Well, you may be used to women who are cool with just going to dinner with you, or getting wined and dined, and that’s enough for them because they like the money. What you’re offering works for them. Montana isn’t that girl, and you know it. And I think that’s why you’re drawn to her. She’s different. She’s real. She’s genuine.”
“What the fuck, Charlie. Sounds like you want to date her.”
“And if I did?” he said with a smirk.
“I’d tell you to dig a hole out by the lake before I beat you senseless and buried your fucking body there.”
He laughed hard. “Relax, buddy. Montana’s more like family. I’m not looking to date her. But that response is real interesting for such a casual guy.”
“Hey, I’m not denying that I care about her.” I blew out a strained breath. “How about you help me out and keep me posted on how she’s doing?”
He rolled his eyes. “Don’t hold your breath. I’m hardly one who pays attention to town gossip.”
“Fine. I don’t know what the fuck is wrong with me. The plan was always to leave. It’ll blow over. I’ll head back to the city, and I’ll be buried with work. I won’t have time to think of anyone once I start this next project.” It was the truth. And it was the way I liked it.
“You’re a smart dude. I think you’ll figure it out.”
“Exactly. I’m not worried about it. This is the way I live my life. That didn’t change after spending a few months here. Plus, I’m over that fucking moose and the porcupine. I’m ready for the chaos of the city. Horns blasting, people flipping one another the bird when they get in their way, the world’s best coffee.”
“I don’t know, Myles. Once you’ve been here, it’s tough to leave.”
“Says the dude who has lived here his entire life.”
“Like I said, it’s hard to leave.”
“Myles,” someone called, and I turned around to see Daniel Kingsley walking my way. “You got a minute?”
Charlie leaned in and whistled near my ear. “I’m guessing your future father-in-law is coming to kick your ass.”
“Of course. I’ll be right there,” I called out as he stopped to say hello to a few guys on the crew. I turned back to Charlie. “I’ll be in touch. Thanks for everything, Charlie.”
He clapped me on the shoulder and pulled me in for one of those half bro hugs that guys do. “Fine. I’ll keep you posted on your girl, you big pussy. It’s been nice hanging with you, brother.”
“Don’t get sappy. I told you I want you to come to New York. You can bring Harper with you. I’ve got plenty of room at my place. You’re always welcome.”
I didn’t make offers like that lightly. I kept my circle small for a reason. But Charlie Huxley had become someone that I considered a friend.
“Count on it. Once we get this hotel up and running, we’ll take a trip out your way. She’ll like that.”
I nodded before turning to walk toward Daniel.
“Hey, Daniel. I was going to come say goodbye to you before I head out of town tonight.”
“I appreciate it. Just wanted to catch you and see if we could talk for a minute,” he said before clearing his throat and glancing around as if he was looking for a place to sit.
“Why don’t we grab a quick bite at the Brown Bear Diner,” I said. I was anxious to get over to Montana’s house before I left in a few hours, but I respected her father, and if he wanted to talk, I wouldn’t say no.
“Sounds good.”
We walked across the street and decided on the booth in the back. We ordered a few appetizers, and we got a couple of sodas.
Once our drinks were set down, he let out a breath. “Listen, Myles. I appreciate everything you’ve done for Montana, with the Murphy Ranch.”
“It was a business deal. We’re partners. She’s going to do big things with it.” I shrugged, reaching for my drink and then taking a sip.
“I’ve noticed that you spend a lot of time together. Hell, everyone in town knows something’s been going on. You’d have to be blind not to. She said she went on a little getaway, and I noticed you were gone as well.” He held up his hands to stop me from trying to make something up. I wasn’t used to speaking to the father of the women I was hooking up with. This was a first. “I’m not here to judge. It’s none of my business what’s been going on. You’re both grown-ups, and I like you, Myles. I really do.”
We paused when the server set a plate of wings and sliders down in front of us. Delilah gave me a sympathetic look as if she knew this was an awkward conversation.
