Saving the Rain (Crimson Ridge #4)

by Elliott Rose

“You’re looking a little fried under the collar there, snowflake. Sure you don’t need to run on home? Let the big boys handle things here today.” “Stop treating me like a little kid.” Another shrug is all I get. “When you quit bitching like one. Then, I’ll consider it.” “Jesus. You’re insufferable, you know that?” I lift my hat off my head and stab fingers through my hair. “Don’t trip over your big words, boy.” “Does Beau know you’re out here being a prize assjacket?” “Only for you. Now I know how it gets you all hot and bothered, I’ll save it up especially.” He chuckles, a deep noise that makes my guts do an uncomfortable flop. “Since it looks like we’ll be running into each other more often...” “Just stop.” I shove my hat back on and level him with a glare. “I’ve got crap to do, and this is stupid.” “Quit turning up where you’re not wanted.” His dark gaze narrows on mine. I can’t help the wry laugh that bursts out. “That’s mighty rich.” I spread my arms and look around at the peaceful ranch and mountains—the sight of golden leaves fluttering on the breeze, a canvas of orange and burnt umber decorating the slopes of the hills and ridges surrounding us—and then turn back to him. “Coming from the guy who turned up in my town.” “Hmmm. Doesn’t it just rub you all kinds of wrong that I’ve been here two minutes and already got myself a nice little warm welcome?” Raine stares at me, and then his tongue runs a slow line across his bottom lip. “She tasted pretty damn sweet too.”