I Only Have Pies for You (Pumpkin Spice Life 1)

“There’s only one thing I’m interested in is in this town. I figured I’d come by and see my competition.” He glanced around and smirked. “Can’t say I’m impressed or concerned.”

“Funny. I feel the exact same way.” He crossed his arms over his chest to keep his hands from balling into fists. Fixing an unconcerned expression on his face, he studied the cocky bastard. Everything from his leather loafers to his supple leather jacket screamed money.

“You could save yourself a lot of embarrassment by stepping aside now.”

“You realize she’s not a prize to be won, right?” Alaric tilted his head and scow

led at his attitude.

“But she is. There’s no one else out there quite like her. She’s an exquisite gem. If you can’t see that, you’re a fool.”

“I know she’s a catch. But I’m not the one who let her slip through my fingers. I’m aware of what she’s said to you. There’s no interest on her part, so why are you still here?”

“Women like it when a man proves his affections.”

“You’re way off base with this. If you knew her half as well as you seem to believe you do, you’d known Rosaleen is not that type to play hard to get so you’ll chase her.”

“And you know her so well after a handful of weeks?”

“I don’t have anything to prove to you. I will tell you this ... if you continue to pursue her against her will, we’re going to have a problem.”

“Says the man who hides her because he’s ashamed.”

“You’re grasping at straws, city boy. I suggest you think about where you are.”

“Are you threatening me?” Ryan asked, jaw flapping open and closed like a fish out of water.

“No, I’m just letting you know things work differently in small towns. We protect our own.”

“Rosaleen doesn’t need to be protected from me,” Ryan spat.

“That’s a matter of personal opinion. You outstay your welcome, and you might find hospitality will run its course.” It wouldn’t take much to spread the news of a disgruntled ex-boyfriend.

“Now who’s threatening who?” Ryan asked.

“Oh, I’m just giving facts.”

“This isn’t over, Bulley.”

“Way I hear it, it never started seeing as how my girlfriend has no interest in you.”

Ryan stepped closer. “You’ll find I don’t scare easily.”

“And I do? You’re the one out of your depth, and not wanted to boot.”

His nostrils flared. Alaric tensed, waiting to see what he’d do next. He’d never been one to shy away from a fight once it was started, but he never initiated. Please give me a reason to put you on your ass.

“We got a problem here, boss?” Josh asked.

“No, I don’t think we do. Do we?” Alaric asked.

“No problem.” Ryan stepped back and held up his hands. “We were just having a lively discussion.”

“Right. Remember what I said.” Alaric stared the man down as he left the store.

“What was that about?” Josh asked.

“A guy who doesn’t know how to take no for an answer. Rosaleen mentioned her ex had shown up. I didn’t realize he was so pushy.”