“Suppose we’re saying it’s time to buckle down and act proper-like.”

Flynn pinned a hard glare on Jericho. “Or maybe it’s time for Jericho to buckle down and marry Ivy.”

Chapter
14

Flynn wanted Jericho to marry her? Ivy’s heart slammed hard against her chest. She couldn’t deny she’d dreamed a time or two—or a few hundred—about marrying Jericho. But she hadn’t considered it anytime recently. Not since he’d left and never looked back.

But here he was. Here they were. And after sharing that kiss with him? Howdy-doody, she was ready for a repeat. Real soon. Just the thought of his fingers pressing against her lower back, his hard chest radiating heat, and his mouth taking possession of hers made her weak in the knees.

No doubt about it. Jericho Bliss was a mighty fine kisser. Mighty fine indeed. She’d shared a kiss with a cowhand now and again over the past few years. But after kissing Jericho, no one and nothing else compared. Not even a little.

She slid a glance his direction. Even with his bruised face and bloody nose, no other man could compare to his ruggedly handsome looks either. Not only that, but he was a good and decent man right down to his bones. He was considerate, conscientious, determined, and hardworking. He had a strong sense of integrity and justice.

Of course, that didn’t mean he was without faults. She’d known him long enough to see every one of his flaws, and he could be headstrong and hard on himself and others.

Even if marriage hadn’t been in her short-term plans with buying Steele’s land and raising sheep, she wouldn’t complain about starting a life with Jericho. Maybe they could eventually buy up more land. But until then, they could make use of the spread together.

Jericho pulled a neckerchief from his pocket and held it against his bloody nose. “You told me at the bog you didn’t want Ivy even courting, that she’s too young. Now you’re wanting to marry her off?”

“Ivy is too young,” Flynn said. Ivy started to protest, but he talked over her. “But you’re responsible, and you’ll keep her safe and out of trouble.”

“Reckon Flynn’s got a real good idea.” Wyatt held Flynn’s gaze as an unspoken message passed between them. “Best thing for you to do is accept blame for this here incident and do the right thing by Ivy and marry her.”

“I’d do the right thing by Ivy if I’d wronged her—”

“Taking off her clothes is wronging her.” Flynn pulled himself up as though he might take another swing at Jericho.

Ivy tensed. So Jericho didn’t want to marry her? Why didn’t that surprise her?

“You’ve sullied her reputation,” Wyatt said. “The least you can do is give her your name.”