Lone Star Courtship. Mae Nunn

concern for my well-being, after all,” he observed.

      Her gaze met his. He popped a vinegar-soaked chunk of cod in his mouth and waited.

      “Sure it is. Partly,” she admitted, and then busied herself arranging a pile of chips. “I could have gone the other way and picked up fried chicken but eating alone is no fun. For either of us. And as long as you’re here anyway, I thought you could tell me all about London. I may have business to conduct there soon and I could use some expert guidance.”

      “You’re asking a barrister for free advice?”

      He couldn’t hold back the smile. She responded with innocent, wide eyes.

      “Not entirely free. I paid for lunch and dinner, didn’t I?”

      “True. Very true. And all selections have been enjoyable, so I suppose I do owe you. Why don’t you e-mail your questions to me and I will answer in a day or two when I have some quiet time.”

      “Quiet time?” She cocked one brow. “Between me and the Cowboy Cartel you’re gonna experience America Texas-style for a few days and there’s nothing quiet about that. With luck you can have quiet when you’re back home this time next week.” She nodded and popped a fat chip into her mouth. The set of her chin said she expected no further argument.

      So, she intends to have me under surveillance until she can get me out of town, does she?

      Keeping her enemies close seemed to be more than a Zen Post-it for Casey. Well, two could embrace that philosophy.

      And it didn’t hurt that this woman was the prettiest assignment he’d had for a long time.