They spent the rest of the afternoon on the compound, and Ivy watched Boone in his element. He was different here—more relaxed, more open. He laughed with his cousins, played with his nieces and nephews, helped his uncle fix a truck engine with the kind of easy competence that came from years of practice.
And through it all, he kept her close. His hand on the small of her back as they walked. His arm around her shoulders when they stood talking to family. His eyes constantly checking to make sure she was okay, that she was comfortable, that she was happy.
He was claiming her publicly, and everyone could see it.
As activity began to wind down for the day, Ivy stood encased in Boone's arms, his chin resting on top of her head.
"I should get back to the shop," Ivy said quietly. "I need to
