Tempting Fate (The Blake Boys Book 9) by Rhonda Laurel Read Free Book Online

like she’d invaded his privacy by barging in on him. He asked her repeatedly how she knew he would be there, and she finally admitted that she’d checked the alumni Web site and found the engagement announcement. Hannah was the daughter of a senator after all, and Emma pieced together that they were the couple he was referring to and that he would be there.
    “Your brother should be finished soon. He was blindsided by that call,” Anna Beth said as she tidied up her desk.
    He smiled. “These things happen when you’re the boss.”
    “So how does it feel to be an uncle again?”
    “Great.” He whipped out his cell phone and showed her a picture of Teri-Lyn holding both Jack and Matt.
    “Those two are so adorable.” She smiled. “Have you been hit the baby bug yet?”
    “That would be putting the cart before the horse.”
    “I have to admit I’ve been thinking about it lately.” She bit her lip.
    “Seeing anybody special?”
    “No, I haven’t had a date in ages. I’ve just about given up. There are too many frogs out there disguising themselves as princes.” She laughed.
    “The perfect person for you is out there. You can’t give up.” He sat on the edge of her desk.
    “Maybe my standards are too high. I haven’t found anyone who can live up to my expectations.”
    “What are you looking for in a man?”
    She glanced over her shoulder in the direction of J.J.’s office. “Someone’s who’s handsome, kind, accomplished, considerate, and loyal.”
    “Nothing wrong with wanting a man to have those qualities. When you do find him, it will be well worth the wait because you didn’t settle.” He smiled.
    Anna Beth blinked. “You really think so?”
    “I’m sure of it.”
    J.J. appeared, ready to leave. “Sorry that took so long.”
    “No worries. Anna Beth and I were just lamenting about being single.” Channing smiled.
    “She’s one of a kind. I don’t think any man will ever be good enough for her.” J.J. winked at her.
     
    * * *
     
    When they entered the parking deck, J.J. and Channing spotted Bo getting into his Jaguar.
    “C.J., we’re still on for Thursday night?” Bo yelled.
    “You bet.” Channing gave him a thumbs up.
    “You two are dating now?” J.J. shook his head as he got into the car.
    “Ha ha.” Channing turned on the engine and made his way out of the parking garage.
    He waded through the heavy downtown traffic, and twenty minutes later he was turning onto the highway.
    “So how are things working out in the guesthouse?” J.J. asked.
    “I love it. It’s spacious, and it gives Mama and Daddy their privacy.”
    “Maybe it’s time you picked a spot on the ranch and start building your own home.” J.J. said.
    “I want to take my time and pick the right location.” He often rode around the ranch, scoping out ideal places to build his home.
    “Well, it’s only a matter of time before Daddy’s going to ask what you’re waiting for.”
    “I think moving into the guesthouse gave me a reprieve. He and Mama can get frisky as much as they like with me out of the way.” He laughed.
    “Don’t remind me.” J.J. shook his head. “Have any plans tonight?”
    “I’m going to try to get in touch with Cassidy again.”
    “Still no luck?”
    “No.”
    “You really like her, don’t you?”
    “Are you kidding me? She’s maddening, beautiful, loves a good fight, and always has to be right.” He grinned.
    “Right up your alley.” J.J. chuckled.
    “Unfortunately Emma’s surprise appearance at the engagement party has made any further progress impossible.”
    “Did you ever stop and think maybe Emma sensed you were into someone else and strategically planned to be at that party?”
    “What on earth for?”
    “She’s campaigning pretty hard to pick up where you two left off.”
    “I’ve been thinking maybe she was right to cool it. You know she changes the subject whenever I mention Seth.”
    J.J. scratched at his beard. “So he and Penny’s relationship