Chapter 222

Dean Reed had been working in the stables for years. He was probably just past twenty, maybe he'd mentioned it before, but Emily Baker never bothered to remember. All she knew was-he was obedient, and in some ways, very...efficient. Right now, Simone Bennett had just collapsed to the floor, and the house was still drowning in a string of funerals. But instead of caring, Emily was unusually...excited. She made the first move. Dean hesitated for a split second-then completely gave in and pinned her down. In his rush, he'd even forgotten to shut the door. It didn't last long, but he poured every ounce of himself into it. Emily leaned softly against his shoulder, her eyes wide with a helpless look. "You have to help me with this. If things blow up, I won't last in this house. They'll toss me out." Dean clutched her like something fragile and priceless. "Don't worry. I'll make sure it's clean." He was completely hooked-buttoning his shirt but still stealing glances at her. Emily wasn't in a