“A friend from the vet hospital.” He smiled right back. “A bearded dragon.”
Ivy squealed. “A dragon?”
Archer laughed. “A little one. No fire. No wings.”
Ivy peeked between her fingers again.
“He won’t hurt you,” Eden offered.
“Want to touch him?” Archer asked.
Ivy shook her head.
“I can take him back to the hospital booth.” It was the first time Eden noticed the large man at Archer’s side.
“Booth?” Clara asked.
“We’ve got animals here for people to see and learn about, part of the veterinary hospital community outreach. Don’t blame her. I’m not much of a reptile man myself.”
Eden smiled.
“Fisher Boone,” the man said. “Archer’s younger, smarter and more charming brother.”
Archer shot him a look. Eden laughed.
“Hand him over.” Fisher took the lizard.
Ivy lowered her hands. “Are you okay, Dr. Archer?”
Archer smiled. “I’m fine. He’s friendly, Ivy, I promise.”
Ivy crossed her arms over her chest and frowned.
“She’s not buying it,” Fisher said. “I wanted to meet you, Miss Caraway. And thank you for helping Archer out. He’s a hell of a lot easier to live with when he gets his way.”
Eden laughed.
Archer sighed. “Just take the lizard back to the booth.”
“What kind of ice cream do you want?” Clara asked Ivy.
“Pink,” Ivy said. “Please.”
“Would you like to join us for ice cream?” Eden asked.
Archer’s gaze shifted to her. “Sounds good.”
Buying ice cream was an ordeal. The shop was crowded and everyone inside seemed to know who Archer was. While Archer tried his best to remain civil, his discomfort was obvious. By the time they’d found a patch of shade under a tree on the courthouse yard, Archer looked ready to run.
“Not really a people person, are you?” she asked, watching Clara and Ivy blowing bubbles in the kids’ section nearby.
He chuckled. “No. Guess not.”
Lily lay on her back, wriggling and cooing. She squirmed and wiggled until she’d flipped herself over.
“Did you see that?” Eden asked, all smiles.
Archer nodded, his eyes fixed on her. The look on his face was soft and warm, made her feel soft and warm.