Daddy's Sweet Girl (Montana Daddies 3)

“Sure, that’s just common courtesy. I’ll expect the same in return.”

He smiled and kissed her forehead. “Of course, baby. I travel a lot and that always comes with delays but I will always let you know as soon as I can.”

She frowned. Was she upset at the idea of him being away from her? He couldn’t help the surge of satisfaction at the idea. Because, Lord knew, he didn’t want to be apart from her. And he had some ideas of how he could change that, but he wasn’t going to bring that up right now. He knew he had to move slowly so as not to scare her off.

“All right,” she said quietly.

“I think I’ve made it clear that there will be no talking badly about yourself.” He noted that down on the piece of paper.

She wrinkled her nose. “I’ll try.”

He lowered his chin, staring at her sternly. “You will do more than try, understand?”

She nodded.

“Yes, Daddy.”

“Yes, Daddy.” She squirmed on his lap, but he held her still.

“Calm down, baby. We’re not finished yet. Next rule, obeying the law.”

She stiffened. “What do you mean? I always obey the law.” Her eyes widened in horror. “Do you think I’m like Max?”

“Shh, sweet girl,” he said soothingly. “That’s not what I think at all. I know you’re nothing like your brother.”

She relaxed slightly. “Then what did you mean?”

“I meant things like when you’re driving that you will stick to the speed limit. No texting, always wear your seat belt, no jaywalking.”

“No jaywalking, right.” She giggled. Then her smile died. “Oh, you were serious.”

“I am serious. You get caught jaywalking or taking risks crossing the road and I’m going to think that you need more supervision.”

She had a stupefied look on her face. He thought that might just be enough for now. There was just one more thing.

“If Max contacts you, then I want to know immediately. Same goes with anyone associated with him, Mr. Markovich or those other people. I don’t intend to let you out of my sight for long until this is settled, but this rule is very important and I need your promise.”

“What will you do if one of them does contact me?”

“That’s not for you to worry about.”

“But I am worried. I don’t want you doing anything that will end with you hurt or in jail.”

He rocked her slightly back and forth. “I appreciate that you’re worried about me, little one. But I can assure you I’ve dealt with people far nastier and more dangerous than these people are.”

“I just feel like all I’m bringing to this relationship is problems,” she muttered.

He leaned her back to stare into her face sternly. “Hear me well, these issues are just a blip on the radar. I know everything seems terrible and insurmountable to you, but I’m going to take care of them and then we can concentrate on you and me. Besides, these problems have gotten you right where I want you.” He grinned at her.

She rolled her eyes. “Half-naked and on your lap?”

“You got it, babe. So, that promise?”

“I promise.”

“I promise, what?”

“I promise to tell you if Max or Mr. Markovich or that other man call or approach me, Daddy.”