gift box and said, “How many kids are you expecting tonight?”
“Thirty or so. Two Scout troops.” Cowboy was about six four with bulbous muscles, hair the color of wheat, and a beard that was a shade darker.
“That’s great. I’m sure they’ll have fun. Are you guys ready for Festival on the Green?” Redemption Ranch always had a booth at the event to raise awareness for their services and collect donations. Since the ranch didn’t close for the event, they had a host of volunteers to help with the festival.
“We’re about as ready as we’ll ever be. I know you’re ready. You run this place like a well-oiled machine.” He glanced into the shop at his sister and said, “Did Birdie tell you about a hot yoga class she’s going to?”
“Mm-hmm. Why?”
“There’s a dude instructor. Do you know anything about him? Are you going to the class?”
“I’m teaching a chocolate class at three thirty, so no yoga for me. But it’s a yoga class, Cowboy. I don’t think Birdie’s virtue will be in danger.” Carly set the gift box in a larger box with the truffles and tarts. She heard the bells over the door ring and glanced at the clock, glad she still had plenty of time to get ready for her class.
Cowboy scowled and said, “Would you go to that yoga class if you weren’t busy?”
“I’m not really into yoga. I like to hike and do things outdoors, but the idea of getting sweaty inside doesn’t make much sense to me.” She swore she heard Zev’s voice, and just as it registered, memories of her and Zev rolling around naked and sweaty in his hotel room in Mexico came rushing back, making her hot all over. She turned away, hoping Cowboy didn’t notice.
“Should I pretend you’re not blushing a red streak?”
“Yes, please.” She heard what sounded like Zev’s voice again. Praying she’d made it up in her head, she peered into the shop—and nearly choked. Zev was standing at the counter talking with Birdie. Carly flattened her back against the wall next to the doorway, as nervous to see him as she was elated. She quickly realized how bad that was. She couldn’t afford to be flustered when she taught her class. “Tell me I’m seeing things. Is there a really good-looking guy out there with longish hair? Please say no. He can’t be here.”
Cowboy’s expression turned serious. His eyes narrowed and he looked into the shop. “That guy stalking you or something? Need me to take care of him?”
“No. He’s fine. He’s…” Making my heart race. “I used to go out with him. Let’s just get your stuff and get moving. My class starts soon.”
“An ex, huh?” Cowboy got a rascally look in his eyes. “I’ve got your back, Carly. Don’t sweat it.” He picked up the boxes in one arm and hooked his other arm over her shoulder.
“No, really, Cowboy, I’m—” She stopped talking as he led her into the shop and Zev and Birdie looked over.
Zev’s eyes caught Carly’s, and her stomach tumbled. He looked delicious in a dark T-shirt and faded jeans. His gaze shifted to Cowboy, and his jaw clenched. Cowboy cocked an arrogant grin. Birdie looked baffled, and Carly was too flustered to think straight.
“We’ve filled the sixth slot for the class!” Birdie exclaimed. “He’s signing up right now.” She slapped a paper on the counter and handed Zev a pen. “What did you say your name was?”
“Zev Braden,” he said, eyes locked on Carly.
Lordy, that voice…
Birdie’s eyes widened. “You’re Zev?”
“The one and only,” Zev said with an air of authority.
“Thanks for the little extra gift, darlin’.” Cowboy kissed Carly’s cheek and swatted her ass.
Carly let out a surprised squeak. Birdie giggled, and Zev’s eyes narrowed.
Cowboy nodded at Zev in that manly way men had when they were sizing each other up and claiming alpha status. Zev was a formidable guy, but Cowboy rivaled Nick Braden in size, and when he puffed out his chest, not many men could match his breadth.
Zev lifted his chin and threw his shoulders back, nodding curtly in return. Zev had never been one to back down from a challenge, and it was thrilling to see that hadn’t changed.
Cowboy looked at Carly and said, “Why don’t I hang around for class, darlin’? Make sure things don’t get out of hand.”
“No!” Carly and Birdie said at once.
Birdie grabbed her purse and hurried around the counter toward them. She took Cowboy by the arm and dragged him toward the door.