“What kind of husband did you have that you’re so used to doing everything by yourself?”

Always a private person, Emily bristled at Slade’s question. “That’s none of your business. Just because we’ll be sleeping under the same roof doesn’t mean you’ll be moving into my life.” The feelings jumping inside her—the fluttery excitement that made her breath hitch and her mouth dry—scared her.

“Fair enough. We don’t poke into each other’s lives. Sounds good to me,” Slade said.

Sighing, Emily sneaked a curious look at him. She hadn’t meant it exactly that way. Now maybe he wouldn’t tell her any more about himself.

She remembered that she’d had the first good night’s sleep last night that she’d had in months. Was that because she knew Slade Coleburn was in her barn?

When was the last time having a man around made her feel safe?