Angel Eyes (Nashville Outlaws #6)

By Cheryl Douglas

We all make mistakes, but my darkest moment cost me the one. I may have been drunk, only eighteen, and high on life when I got lured into a dingy bathroom to do the deed with my girlfriend’s rival, but I’ve been paying for it ever since Shea dumped me.

I’m a grown-ass man now. A single dad with no clue how to care for a baby, and the only one who can rescue me? You guessed it... Shea. She keeps shooting me down, but I’ve got one thing she needs: money. Will my outrageous offer be enough persuade her? I sure as hell hope so, ‘cause I’ve tried quitting this girl... and can’t.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cheryl Douglas
• Release date: Apr 25, 2021
• ISBN: 9781005928070

Cheryl Douglas

Cheryl Douglas is a USA Today bestselling author who kicks back in the country, surrounded by farm land and nature. Her life revolves around family, country music, travel, caffeine, chocolate, and deadlines.Visit Cheryl at www.authorcheryldouglas.com

Book preview

Chapter 1

Marshall

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My sister-in-law told me I was crazy for knocking on my ex’s door half drunk at midnight. She was probably right. But when Shea opened the door a crack, her auburn hair sleep mussed, wearing black short shorts and a cropped tank, I couldn’t even pretend to be sorry.

What the hell are you doing here? she snapped. It’s after midnight.

I was curling my hands around the doorframe so I wouldn’t touch her. Man, it took superhuman effort not to touch her. Especially now that I knew she was single again.

Better question, what the hell are you doing answering your door without asking who it is… dressed like that?

She narrowed her gray-green eyes at me. Fuck me. Those eyes got me every time. I’d never seen another person with eyes that color, except her dad. When we first met I’d teased her they looked like cat’s eyes, but she hated that comparison, so I’d taken to calling her Angel Eyes instead.

I looked through the peephole first. And I happen to wear this to sleep. That’s what I was doing before you started banging on my door like a maniac… sleeping.

I let my eyes linger on her tanned, toned legs before muttering, If you came to bed wearing that, neither one of us would get much sleep.

She tried to slam the door in my face, but I wedged my foot in the opening.

I’m sorry. I’m not here to piss you off, Shea. I need your help. Please.

She scowled at me before crossing her arms. Have you been drinking?

A few.

And you’re driving? You idiot—

Relax, I’m crashing next door tonight. Unless you want to make me a better offer? But I couldn’t say that, or she’d kick me out for sure.

I should’ve known your brother and Nina wouldn’t let you drink and drive.

My twin brother, Dylan, was married to Shea’s best friend. They’d been in love way back in high school, just like me and Shea, but my brother had been smart enough to keep it in his pants when he was supposed to, so he got to keep the girl. Too bad I couldn’t say the same.

Come on, now. I opened the door wider, stepping inside before closing it behind me. When have you ever known me to be that stupid?

She tapped her small foot on the slate tile, drawing attention to her cherry-painted toes. I wanted those toes in my mouth, along with every other irresistible inch of her.

You’re plenty stupid, she said, raising her chin. But you’re right, I’ve never known you to drink and drive. So, what gives? Why are you getting loaded on a Monday night?

To celebrate. I stepped in closer and was assailed by vanilla and lavender. That scent still haunted me.

Celebrate what? she asked, rolling her eyes. Another award? Another platinum record? Another chart topping single?

She could deny it all she wanted. I knew she was still a country music fan, and my sister-in-law admitted Shea still had a playlist on her phone with my name on it. I’m celebrating… I whispered, leaning in close enough to whisper in her ear. Becoming a daddy.

Shea gasped and took a step back, flattening her hand against her chest. Seriously? Your daughter was born… today?

We shared a look filled with pleasure and pain. I was actually excited about becoming a daddy for the first time, but my baby’s mama was all wrong for me. It should’ve been Shea’s hand holding mine in that delivery room today.

Yeah. How ‘bout that, huh?

Her smile was a little wobbly as she blinked a few times. I’m really happy for you. Congratulations.

My emotions had been all over the place. My ex, Sasha, didn’t want me in the delivery room, but I’d stood my ground and she’d finally relented, even reaching for my hand when the pain got the best of her. Welcoming my daughter into the world was hands down the most exhilarating moment of my life, but looking into Shea’s eyes, thinking about what might have been, nearly brought me to my knees.

Thanks. I held my phone up. Want to see a picture of Ivy?

She swallowed before bobbing her head. Of course.

Shea had a soft spot a Texas mile wide for kids, babies especially. She’d grown up without a mom and as a result was the most loving, nurturing woman I’d ever met.

I showed her the pic I’d already made my screen saver. Ivy was wrapped in a pink blanket with a matching hat, her little red face all twisted up, like she was mad at the world for disturbing her nine-month nap. I thought she was the most beautiful baby I’d ever seen.

Ohhh, look at her. She’s adorable!

Shea’s thick silky hair fell forward as she leaned in to get a closer look, creating a shield between us as it brushed my hand. I had a flashback. Fisting that hair in my hands while her tongue danced with mine—

You said her name’s Ivy?

I cleared my throat and pocketed my phone before taking a step back. Ugh. I had to get a grip. I was here to beg the girl for a favor. I had to stay focused. Uh yeah. Ivy Amara Cohen.

She curled her hand around my forearm. Sasha agreed to give the baby your last name. That’s wonderful.

Shea knew how hard I’d been fighting my ex to gain custody once the baby was born, but I could never tell her how I’d sealed the deal. I knew she wouldn’t approve, but I felt I was doing what I had to do to protect my daughter.

I named the baby. I bit my lip, wondering how much I should tell her. I’d had a few drinks, but I still knew when to keep my mouth shut. Since I’m going to have full custody.

Her eyes were wide as she looked up at me. You are? Wow, I had no idea. I thought you were going for a joint custody arrangement.

I don’t trust her. Based on the shit Sasha had been posting on social media, I had my reasons. And honestly, I don’t want my kid anywhere near her.

She straightened to her full height, which might have been impressive had she cleared 5’2. What about what Ivy wants? How do you think she’s going to feel, growing up without a mother?

I knew this was a sore spot for Shea, but Ivy’s situation was nothing like hers. Shea’s mother hadn’t bailed on her. She’d been killed in a car accident when Shea was four months old.

I think some women aren’t fit to be mothers. I let my gaze fall to her full lips. And some are born to be.

She sucked in a sharp breath. And you get to decide whose fit? I thought that was the judge’s job.

I shrugged, knowing I was treading dangerously close to the line. Sasha and I came to an agreement on our own. I’ll get a rush paternity test tomorrow, but I already know she’s mine. That’s just a formality.

And if she’s not?

I wouldn’t allow myself to consider that possibility. I was already in love with that baby. She is.

Shea’s voice was soft when she said, You really want her to be, don’t you?

I raked a hand through my hair. It was probably a mess. I hadn’t looked in a mirror since that morning, but Shea had already seen me at my worst. More times than I could count. I didn’t think I was ready to be a dad, but when Sasha told me she was pregnant… I shrugged. I couldn’t help falling in love.

With the baby?

I frowned. Uh yeah, with the baby. Sure as hell not with Sasha. She’d been a short-term diversion. I met her at a bar the night my brother told me Shea was engaged to another man. I was gutted and needed a beautiful distraction. Sasha had been more than happy to apply for the job when she found out the perks that came along with it.

You never cared about her?

No. I knew that made me sound like a callous bastard, but Shea didn’t know my ex the way I did.

That’s too bad. She shook her head. For Ivy’s sake, it would’ve been nice if you could’ve found a way to make it work, hmm?

I didn’t think so, but it was a moot point now. I was sorry to hear about your engagement.

Her dimples popped before she rolled her eyes. You’re such a liar. You hated Connor.

I grinned. Yeah, I did. I hated any man who’d shared her bed since me. My smile faded. But seriously, I’m sorry he cheated on you, Shea. That must’ve hurt.

I can’t seem to find a man who’ll be faithful to me. I wonder why that is?

Ouch. I’d cheated on her when I’d been a dumb kid. Barely eighteen. It was the night of our senior prom. I’d been loaded and let some girl haul me into the bathroom at a party. It was over before I knew it and I’d felt so guilty I’d broken down and told Shea the next day, begging forgiveness. She’d granted forgiveness, but not another chance, claiming she’d never be able to trust me while she was away at college.

I’d learned my lesson that night. I’d never cheated on another girl since, not that I’d had another girlfriend who’d compared to Shea. Not even close.

You deserve a man who’ll be faithful.

My body swayed toward hers without warning and I had to clench my hands to keep from touching her. It was killing me. The last time we’d slept together had been two years ago, at a New Year’s Eve party my brother and Nina were hosting. I’d begged for another chance after that, but she shut me down, claiming it was a mistake.

She planted her hands on my chest, presumably to keep me at a distance, but her touch elicited the same reaction it always did. Mind-numbing lust.

And one day I’ll find him.

Him. She didn’t think there was any way that man could be me. That I could love her for the rest of her life. Be faithful to her. Build my world around her. But she didn’t know me as well as she thought she did. Because I could be everything she ever needed me to be. I just needed a chance to prove it.

Yeah, you will. I’m standing right in front of you, girl. Open your eyes.

She took a step back. You said something about a favor?

I knew it was going to be a hard sell, but I’d always been a master at selling myself and I had the awards to prove it. I need your help… with Ivy.

What are you talking about?

I chuckled, dipping my head. Come on, Shea. You know me. I don’t know shit about babies.

Then I guess you should’ve worn a condom.

That was the first time she’d let her mask slip. Her jealousy was finally showing. I did. It broke.

I don’t need to hear this. She walked into the adjoining living room. It’s late. I have to be up early, and you need to go.

I couldn’t leave until she promised she’d at least think about my proposal. I need help with Ivy.

So ask your mother or your sisters or—

You know my mama’s got a heart condition and my sisters have families of their own. It wouldn’t be fair to lay this on them. I knew I sounded desperate, but my baby girl was going to be coming home from the hospital in a day or two and I needed a woman who knew what to do with her. I needed Shea.

I wish I could help.

She leaned over to turn on a lamp and I couldn’t help letting my eyes linger. Those shorts were so damn short, and two years was two years too long without her in my bed.

I’ll make it worth your while. Just name your price. She glared at me and I wished I could rescind the offer. Shea was nothing like Sasha. She couldn’t be bought. Sorry, that came out wrong. I just… need you. I crossed my arms as I sat on the edge of her white sofa. And I’ll do whatever it takes.

She sighed, rubbing her forehead. Marshall, no preschool is going to accept a newborn, mine included. Even daycares typically have age restrictions. Some are one month and up, others are three months and up.

I know, that’s why I need help. Not that I’d consider leaving my baby with a stranger. After the horror stories I’d heard, that would never happen.

She threw her hands up in the air. How do you expect me to help you? I just told you we don’t care for newborns!

No, but you have lots of experience with babies. She’d worked in a daycare while she was getting her degree. And I have none.

You’re a pretty damn good uncle, she said, narrowing her eyes. "Don’t say you have no experience."

She had me there. She and I were the godparents to Nina and Dylan’s four-year-old twin boys. My two sisters had five kids between them, and I spent as much time with them as I could. But it was always supervised time.

Yeah, but their parents are always around when I hang out with the kids. What the hell do I know about feeding, changing, and burping a baby? I curled my hand around my forehead as reality set in. I was fucking clueless. Not to mention bathing and diapering. Wide-eyed, I asked, And what do I do if she won’t stop crying? And what about a car seat? I frowned. I don’t even know how the hell to install one. Though I could probably ask my brother for help with that one.

Jesus, Marshall, she said, looking disgusted. Didn’t you even read a book?

I’ve been on the road for the past three months. I was just thankful my baby girl was ten days overdue or I would have missed her birth. I didn’t have time to read a book. Though I realized now I should have made the time. This was too important. I couldn’t afford to screw up.

She smirked. You, read a book? Have you even cracked the spine on a book since high school?

This girl knew me too well. Probably not. You know me, I’m more of a hands-on learner. When she’d tried tutoring me in high school I’d had my hands all over her. And I’d learned everything there was to know about what she liked. I considered that time well spent. Shakespeare I could live without. Shea? Not so much.

I remember. She shook her head. But you have no excuse, Marshall. If you planned to take full custody of Ivy, you should have had a nanny lined up. She waved her hand. But I can give you the name of a service who should be able to send someone over—

I don’t want a stranger. I want you, Shea. I turned the pleading eyes on her. She’d always been a sucker for those. Please.

She huffed, pointing a finger at me. Don’t even try it. I have a business to run—

But you have a manager. You’re fully staffed. You even have a couple of interns, right?

She frowned. How do you know that?

Uh oh. Uh, Nina may have mentioned it.

My best friend is in on this? I’m going to kill her!

My sister-in-law wanted Shea and I to get back together almost as much as I did, but I couldn’t throw her under the bus to help my own cause. She just mentioned it in passing when I asked her how your business was going.

She didn’t look convinced, but when she sank down on an ottoman in front of one of the bright floral armchairs facing me, she said, I don’t know how you think I can help you.

You have a couple of weeks of vacation time, right?

And how the hell do you know that?

Oops. Nina was gonna kill me. Don’t most people get at least a couple of weeks of vacation time every year? I wasn’t like most people. I hit it hard for months and had months of downtime. I haven’t heard about you going away anywhere, so I’m assuming you haven’t taken yours yet?

She looked amused when she asked, Keeping tabs on me, Marshall?

I smiled. Always. And I wasn’t kidding. I always asked my sister-in-law how her best friend was doing.

Just so we’re clear, she said, smoothing her hands over her knees. You’re asking me to spend my vacation time teaching you how to care for your baby?

Yeah.

I knew it was selfish, but I really did need the help and I saw it as the perfect chance to have Shea all to myself for two whole weeks. I really believed if I could prove to her that I was ready for a serious relationship, and a family, she might give me one more chance to show her I wasn’t the same stupid kid she’d dumped all those years ago.

We were thirty-three now. Fifteen years was a hell of a long time to pay for a five minute mistake. Hey, don’t judge. I was barely eighteen. And stupid drunk. I’d been lucky to get it up.

She shook her head. I don’t think so. I—

Twenty-five grand. I knew offering Shea money could backfire, but helping her realize one of her dreams was the only hope I had.

What?

I braced my hands on my thighs, leaning forward. Nina mentioned the toddler / infant rooms you want to add to your preschool. She said you’ve got the space, but you need to buy materials, hire four new people, and advertise. This would allow you to do that.

She opened her mouth before snapping it shut. I could tell her first impulse was to tell me to go to hell, but she thought better of it. Twenty-five grand for two weeks? You must be out of your mind. You could call a service—

I don’t want a service. I want you. Every day and night.

I can’t even process all this right now. She ran her fingernails over her scalp. When is Ivy coming home from the hospital?

Day after tomorrow.

She nodded before standing up. I’ll give you my answer tomorrow. I need to sleep on it.

Okay.

I wanted to up the ante, but Shea wasn’t the kind of woman who would respond to a heavy-handed approach. She was fiercely independent and had grown up taking care of herself while her old man worked two jobs.

Reviews for Angel Eyes (Nashville Outlaws #6)

[rkaye · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

Cheater. He’s not keeping it in his pants, and he’ll cheat again. The imbalance between the two of them is far too great to believe in a HEA.