Title: FIVE TIMES TROUBLE
“The bargain’s off!” Jillian said.
She crossed her arms over her chest. How could she have thought Nick Callahan attractive? And charming? And sweet? When the chips were down, physical perfection was no match for honor. Or trust. They’d made a bargain, and a good man would have respected the deal.
Nick glanced at his watch, then looked over at the boys. “I’ll try to get back as soon as I can.”
Jillian turned to the sink. “Don’t bother. I’m sure we’ll be just fine.”
Suddenly, she felt his hand on her shoulder. “I’m sorry,” he said, his voice soft and warm. “But I wouldn’t leave if I thought you couldn’t handle it. You’ll be just fine, Jillie.” Then he turned and walked out.
Jillian rubbed away the traces of his touch. “Jerk,” she muttered.
A chorus of “Nick’s a jerk, Nick’s a jerk” came from the back room where the boys were playing.
“I heard that,” Nick called from the foyer.