Gunslinger

There was nothing she could do to prevent it. Not here. She had to get back to town, maybe show her face at the Stop-N-Get It. But her instincts told her that Bryce was legit. A good person who believed he was following the law and had her best interests at heart.

Right. That’s what they all say.

“If I keep walking down this road...” She threw her chin in the direction behind the truck. “Are you going to arrest me?”

“Don’t make me, Kylie.”

Her fingers were already wrapped around the handle. She was getting into the truck, she had little choice. But she didn’t have to like it. They both got inside and slammed their doors.

“You need someone to look out for your safety,” he said softly, reaching for the ignition key.

“No offense, but I think I was doing pretty good without you.”

Exhaustion like she hadn’t felt in five years hit her like a slow wave as soon as she sat down. It started in her shoulders and crept up her neck, then down her back. She hadn’t stopped and had barely slowed, holding a steady pace across those fields. And yet, Texas Ranger Bryce Johnson had been waiting on her.

Just dumb luck? Or was he really that skilled?

Chapter Five (#ulink_e154527c-49ed-53d3-909b-50be3c8a1eb2)

As soon as Bryce had put the truck in gear, Kylie’s head sank against the window and she was asleep. Totally and deeply. The mumbles and sleep jerking couldn’t be faked. Not that well. A little twitch, then a jerk that should have awakened anyone who was dozing.

Exhaustion had overtaken her. He’d probably have to carry her inside her house when they arrived. As long as there weren’t any alarms. Get a grip. They weren’t staying.

A quick stop to grab water and clothes. That was it. He was taking her to Waco. Tonight. No waiting. No discussion.

The truck was much too noisy to hear the sleepy words escaping her lips. He couldn’t see her face, but could imagine the soft worried crease across her forehead. He’d watched her all afternoon. Had suspected that she was up to something and should never have let her leave—especially with his gun.