“
He shifts restlessly. “Been lookin’ for someone.” I glance over because he sounds different. More mumbly than ever. He’s not even looking at me. “A woman,” he adds, darting me a quick look. “Oh. Yeah. That makes sense.” I take out my impatience on another dirty shirt and my washboard. Why won’t the man just shut up? If he wants to ask Laura to couple up with him, he can do it. He doesn’t have to hash it all out with me first. He seems kind of impatient too. Like he’s expecting something from me and I’m not providing it. “So thought… thought I’d ask… you.” I stop scrubbing and stare at him. This is getting ridiculous. I finally say bluntly, “Ask me what?” He frowns, almost grumpy. “Ask if you wanna be my woman.” Shock. That’s my initial reaction. My eyes widen, and my mouth falls open. His frown deepens. “You surprised?” “Yes, I’m surprised,” I choke out. “You’re asking if I want to be your woman?” “Course. Why the hell else would I be ramblin’ on about all this?” “I didn’t know. You’re… you’re asking me?
”
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