“It isn’t just—” James blew out a breath. “I’m angry, yes. And confused. And...this changes everything.”

“That’s what I’m trying to tell you. Zeke doesn’t have to change anything for you. You can still run for sheriff. I think you’d make a great one. You don’t have to worry about supporting us, not on a county sheriff’s salary, because I have a great job with good benefits—”

James shut off the engine and got out of the Jeep, slamming the door shut behind him. Mara took a few steps back.

He advanced on her, pointing his finger at her chest.

“I’m not going to walk away and pretend I don’t know I have a kid in this world.”