Bossing the Cowboy (Circle B Ranch #4) - Kennedy Fox Page 0,31

off his toned arms and tats. If I didn’t know who he was, I certainly wouldn’t guess a doctor.

“That’d be great. I have an appointment for my final dress fitting for Maize’s wedding, but other than that, I’ll be eating, sleeping, and studying.”

Once we nail down a date and time, I thank him again for coming and for the gift. I’m still not sure what to think of it, but when I glance over at Grandma, who’s been watching us the entire time, I know she’s definitely guilty of setting the whole thing up.

Sneaky, sneaky Grandma. One of these days, her meddling is gonna get her in trouble.

But I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t extremely grateful for it this time. Not only did I get the confirmation I needed that I still have a job, but I learned Connor wants to help me study, which means we’ll be spending a lot more time together outside of the office.

Just me and him without work or distractions.

Holy shit. Just us. Alone.

Chapter Ten

Connor

I’m embarrassed to admit how nervous I am to be alone with Elle outside of work. While I’ve consciously avoided putting myself in that situation, I know this’ll benefit her. I have no doubts that Elle will do well, considering she graduated at the top of her class, but I also know how stressful studying alone can be.

Not to mention, until she passes and gets her Authority to Practice letter, she can’t even work, or we both risk our licenses. With all the injuries, vaccinations, and routine checkups, right now is the busiest time of the year. Having her join the practice will help me stay on schedule and ultimately spend more time with Olivia when I get her in July.

I have a close working relationship with the Bishops, and if Elle and I dated then broke up, Rose would replace me in a snap. There’s a lot at risk—most importantly, our hearts. She deserves a guy who can give her everything and more. My life revolves around my clinic and daughter, and I plan to keep it that way.

Vivian has been a pain in my ass more than usual, and though we have a custody agreement, I try to keep things civil between us so she doesn’t up and run again. She knows damn well I’d have to jump through hoops to fight her.

“Your last patient’s ready,” Trina informs me as she steps into my office. “Already did the pre-exam. Sadie’s a little skittish so just a forewarning.”

“Got it, thanks.” I stand and check the time. Elizabeth will be here in one hour for the study session we scheduled last week. I offered to have her come here after-hours so our time together isn’t mistaken for something else. I’ll stay at my desk and quiz her while we keep our distance.

Thirty minutes before she’s supposed to show up, she sends a text message.

Elizabeth: Hey! Would you mind meeting me at the B&B instead? I’ve been here all day studying and have my notes organized on the table. If not, I can come to you but just thought I’d suggest it since there’s free coffee and pastries :)

I inhale a deep breath as I fill with uncertainty. Though it does sound more comfortable than a stuffy office, I’m concerned being there will be too laid-back.

After a couple of minutes, I finally respond.

Connor: Sure, I’ll be leaving here shortly.

Though I was tempted to say no, I also don’t want to mess with her studying environment. Especially if it’s working for her.

Once I’m done for the day, I pack up and head to my truck. I remove my white coat and roll up my sleeves, relieved when the A/C finally kicks in.

“Hey,” John greets me when I walk inside the B&B. I don’t see him much since he doesn’t deal with the animals.

“Hi, I’m looking for Elizabeth.”

He gives me a hesitant look. “For what?”

Before I can respond, Elle walks over. “He’s here to help me study.”

“Ahh, alright.” John tips his head at me, and I awkwardly follow Elle.

“You weren’t lying,” I say when I see the table covered in my old notecards. She also has her new journal wide open, and it’s covered with ink.

“My brain is startin’ to feel like mush, but I think I’m good for you to quiz me now,” she states, carefully stacking the cards in organized piles.

As I take a seat across from her, she looks up. “Do you mind if we sit on the couches