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Just as I rolled the n to try to explain, the voice of Kim, theof Case, our for insane? After everything that poor girl has been through, you think ood idea?"

Leave it to Kim to say exactly as on ot the e and hustled out of the way Once I backed out, I pulled around the roadhouse and started down the gravel path to my own house, which happened to be across the street from Mama Beth’s

After I put the car in park and turned off the ignition, I tentatively placed my hand on Annabel’s shoulder "Hey," I said softly She turned her head slowly to look at me "I’m so sorry about that"

"It’s okay"

"No It’s not I can tell how freaked out you are"

She sighed as she eased her legs down "You’re right that seeing all those men--all those bikers--did a number on me But you can’t bla I have to deal with They were just happy to see you"

"While I know Kiive you so room"

"That’s sweet Thank you I really appreciate you lettingto the house through the windshield, I said, "Coet you settled inside" I opened my door and started to haul ass around the front of the car to Annabel’s side so I could help her, but then o

Annabel was already out of the car when I reached her "Rev, you don’t have to be a gentlee my own door, you know"

"But I want to" At her frustrated huff of breath, I added, "Even though I know you’re capable and you’re a strong, independent wouess I’ll be better about you helping azed up at the house "So this is your place?"

Kicking a few gravel pieces with my boot, I replied, "Yeah It’s not much I’m sure you’re used to places that are a lot finer"

"Rev," Annabel chided softly When I looked at her, she shook her head at e that I shouldn’t be ashamed of what I had "I like it It looks very cozy"

"YouI ht be shocked at what a bachelor’s house looks like?"

"A bachelor biker’s is probably even worse"

"Hmm," she mused