Three Little Words Read Free Page A

she’d speculated about a man’s body. She just wasn’t that interested in the whole naked-sex thing. She preferred quiet conversation to passion, and cuddling to groping. Of course, that went a long way toward explaining what had gone wrong between her and her ex.
    “Interesting journey,” Ford said.
    “Excuse me?”
    “You went from imagining me naked to some other place.”
    Her mouth dropped open. “I didn’t imagine you...that way. What are you saying? I’d never do that.” Heat burned hot and bright on her cheeks. “That would be rude.”
    The sexy smile returned. “So’s lying. Don’t sweat it. I’ll take the compliment in the spirit you meant it.” He raised one shoulder. “It’s the danger. Knowing I’m a dark, dangerous guy makes me irresistible.”
    The Ford she remembered had been funny and charming and flirty, but he’d been a kid from a small town. Untested. Unchallenged.
    The man in front of her had been honed by war. He was still charming, but he was also right about his appeal. There was something indefinable that made her both want to follow him into the shower and take off running.
    She managed to swallow. “You’re saying women want you?”
    “All the time.”
    “How that must annoy you.”
    “I’m used to it. Mostly I consider taking care of them my patriotic duty.”
    She felt her mouth drop open. “Your duty?”
    “ Patriotic duty. It would be un-American to leave a woman in need.”
    Her gaze narrowed. So much for having to worry that Ford was uncomfortable around her. Or that her letters had bothered him. No doubt he’d considered them his God-given right.
    “Just so we’re clear,” she said. “I’m over you.”
    “You mentioned that. You’re not going to love me forever. It’s disappointing.”
    “You’ll survive.”
    “I don’t know. I’m surprisingly sensitive.”
    “Oh, please. Like I believe that.”
    He winced. “You’re mocking a hero?”
    “With every fiber of my being.”
    “Better not let my mother hear that. She’s still trying to convince me to let the town hold a parade in my honor. She wouldn’t like knowing you’re not appreciative of my personal sacrifice.”
    “This would be the same mother who took a booth at the Fourth of July festival so she could find you a wife?”
    For the first time since she’d walked into the gym, Isabel saw a flicker of discomfort in Ford’s steady gaze.
    “That would be the one,” he murmured. “Thanks for reminding me.”
    “She was taking applications.”
    “Yeah, she mentioned that.” He shifted and turned his head, as if searching for an exit.
    Now it was her turn to smile. “Not so big and bad when it comes to your mother, are you?”
    He swore under his breath. “Yeah, well, so sue me. I can’t help it. She’s my mom. Can you stand up to yours?”
    “No,” she admitted. “But mine is half a world away, so I can pretend to be tough.”
    “So could I, when I was on another continent. Now I’m back.”
    She almost felt sorry for him. Almost. “I’ll make you a deal,” she said impulsively. “You stop talking about how you seduce women in the name of being a good soldier, and I won’t bring up your mother.”
    “Done.”
    They looked at each other. Isabel was still conscious of his strength and chiseled good looks, but she was a lot less nervous now. Maybe because she’d figured out his weakness. That knowledge would keep the playing field even.
    “So we’re good?” she asked. “The letters, my sister, your mother, all of it?”
    He nodded. “The best.” His gaze sharpened. “You didn’t apply, did you?”
    She grinned. “To be your wife? No, I didn’t. Technically, I wasn’t qualified. What with me not staying in town permanently.”
    “Lucky you.”
    She pretended concern. “Oh, Ford, don’t worry. I’m sure she’ll find someone for you. A nice girl who appreciates your giving nature.”
    “Very funny.” He paused and the grin returned. “About that