Uncle by E. M. Leya Read Free Book Online

Travis sighed. "To think he might have to face a full custody case now just makes me sick."
    Evan reached across the table and placed his hand on Travis's. "We'll make this work somehow. I promise to do everything I can to keep him out of the middle of this. I want to make it easy for all of you."
    Travis resisted the urge to turn his hand over and link his fingers with Evan's. "If only his grandparents felt the same way."
    Evan eased his hand back, but Travis still felt the warmth against his skin. He smiled at Evan, wishing things were different. Evan was easy to talk to, he liked his company, and if he wasn't working the case, he might just have asked him out.
    Turning away from Evan to try and clear his head, he watched as Jason swam, wondering if he dove in with him if it might help clear his mind. So much seemed to be happening, he wasn't quite sure what to do anymore. Part of him wanted to pack up, leave town and force all this behind him, but he wasn't a quitter. Once more he reminded himself to trust God and let things work out as they would.
    "You want more tea?" Travis nodded to Evan's empty cup.
    "No thanks. I probably should be going. I'm sure I'm breaking rules sitting here like this. Even if I am, I can't recall enjoying myself so much in a long time. Tonight, even though I am technically working, I have relaxed and had an enjoyable evening."
    Travis was pleased. "I meant what I said, you are welcome anytime. Even if it is off the clock. I've enjoyed getting to know you. Can't say I'm happy about the reason we met, but I am happy we did." Travis stood as Evan did.
    "Thanks for dinner. I will be back soon." Evan moved to the edge of the pool. "Bye, Jason. I'm going to head home."
    Jason waved, swimming to the edge of the pool and looking up at Evan. "Bye. I will see you soon to go riding."
    "Yes you will. I look forward to seeing if you're as good as your uncle says."
    "Better." Jason smiled.
    Evan laughed and gave another wave as he stepped away.
    "I would walk you out but I don't dare leave him." Travis glanced at the pool. He wanted to ask Evan to call him once he talked to the Steeles but knew that would be out of line. "You want to plan on Friday for that evening ride?"
    "Sounds good to me. I'll be over around five."
    "I'll have dinner ready to take with us."
    The two stared at each other for a long moment before Evan stepped back and turned around. "Thanks again for tonight. See you then."
    Travis watched as he made his way through the gate toward the front yard. He needed to stop his mind from going where it was going. He had no right being attracted to the man. He would be gone as soon as his job was over and the last thing he needed was for Jason, or worse yet, himself, to become attached to Evan.
    As he heard the car start from out front, he turned and smiled at Jason and then jumped in the pool.
     
     

 
    CHAPTER SIX
     
    Travis shoved the sandwiches in the saddle bags and then added a couple bottles of water to another. He made sure he had two blankets and even tossed in a few carrots for the horses to enjoy.
    He was nervously watching for Evan, knowing he shouldn't be anxious, but he couldn't help wondering how his meeting with the Steeles had gone. He knew better than to come right out and ask, but he hoped that Evan would give him a few clues as to what was said.
    "Uncle Travis, can I bring Dexter?" Jason held up his blue stuffed dog.
    "You can. But you have to make sure not to drop him. Do you want me to put him in the saddle bag until we get there?"
    "No. He knows how to ride. I will hold him in front of me. I promise he will hold on tight."
    Travis smiled, wondering how many times he would have to get off his horse to pick up the stuffed animal. "Alright, as long as you're sure he will be safe."
    "Promise." Jason came over and sat on the bottom rung of the corral. "I'm glad Evan is coming back. I like him."
    "Me, too. Did you know he goes to the same church we do?"
    "Does he have any kids in