Me:That might be the most cowboy thing I've ever read.
Bear:I aim to please.
God, he's funny. And smart. And apparently knows exactly how to press my buttons without crossing any lines.
Me:What else do you do on your hay bales besides flirt with unsuspecting consultants?
Bear:Mostly scheme ways to lure said consultants out here for a horse meet-and-greet.
Me:Are you trying to bribe me with ponies?
Bear:Maybe.
Me:It might work.
Bear:That's what I was hoping.
Me:I should warn you—my daughter might fall in love with the horses and never leave.
Bear:Sounds like my kind of kid.
Me:She is. Fierce and smart and curious. Keeps me on my toes.
Bear:Wonder where she gets that from.
I smile at that. It's subtle, but kind. Not just flirty anymore. He's paying attention. An email pops up that I quickly answer before rereading the last part of our conversation.
Bear:You're quiet. Did I scare you off?
Me:Just picturing what it'd be like.
Bear:And?
Me:Tempting.
Bear:Good. I'll take tempting.
Me:And if I say no?
Bear:Then I'll settle for texting you until you're tempted again.
I snort, shaking my head.
Bear:What would it take to entice you?
Me:Cupcakes. A solid cup of coffee. A view of the stars.
Bear:Easy. I've got two out of three.
Me:Which two?
Bear:The stars and the coffee. You'll have to bring the cupcakes.
Me:I make killer cupcakes. That's not a problem.
Bear:Then I think we've got a plan.
I glance at the clock. Only twenty minutes until I need to pick Emma up from school. I shove my laptop into my bag and stand, still smiling like a fool. As I head out, my phone buzzes again.