Chapter 44

Rafe figured she'd expected a high-end store that stocked Tony Lama, Lucchese and Dan Post. But in this same strip center. he'd found a specialty shop where a woman he'd once spent time with, made boots that combined durability with style. Nita Harmon smiled when he walked in. The smile faltered a little when she saw Bree with him, but then her professional face fell smoothly into place.

"We'll fit you with a real pair of Texas boots."

Bree glanced from him to Nita and back again, instinctively reading the situation. But when Nita headed to the stock room in the back Rafe shook his head at her and mouthed the words, Past history.

He gave Nita credit. She remained completely professional and worked her magic to find the perfect footwear for Bree. At the end of an hour she walked out with her high fashion boots in a box and wearing new ones in faded blue with a wild horse design and low block heels for easy walking.

"Now isn't that better?" he asked when they were back in the truck.