A Fling with the Billionaire Cowboy

Wives for the Western Billionaires 5

A Fling with the Billionaire Cowboy Dirk Brodie met Chelsea Pearce overseas. He proposed, but she refused. No cowboy for her. Still, neither has forgotten the other. Now she's in danger. Dirk, with help, rescues Chelsea, but she's emotionally and physically drained. Dirk fights his desires while helping her recover. He takes her to his ranch to avoid the press. Desire swirls around them, and they agree to have a fling. But Dirk already loves her. He has to convince her she'd enjoy being a cowboy's wife. Chelsea grew up on a farm and doesn't have good memories. Still, she is starting to love the ranch life and Dirk. Is their love strong enough for her to choose marriage over her career? Her boss offers Chelsea her dream job. She goes to New York to check it out, and Dirk is certain she'll never return. Can the career woman say no to the bright lights? Genre: Contemporary, Western/Cowboys Length: 42,334 words

A FLING WITH THE BILLIONAIRE COWBOY Wives for the Western Billionaires 5

Paige Cameron

EVERLASTING CLASSIC

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

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A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: Everlasting Classic

A FLING WITH THE BILLIONAIRE COWBOY Copyright © 2012 by Paige Cameron E-book ISBN: 1-61926-694-6 First E-book Publication: April 2012 Cover design by Les Byerley All art and logo copyright © 2012 by Siren Publishing, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written permission. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

PUBLISHER Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

Letter to Readers Dear Readers, If you have purchased this copy of A Fling with the Billionaire Cowboy by Paige Cameron from BookStrand.com or its official distributors, thank you. Also, thank you for not sharing your copy of this book.

Regarding E-book Piracy This book is copyrighted intellectual property. No other individual or group has resale rights, auction rights, membership rights, sharing rights, or any kind of rights to sell or to give away a copy of this book. The author and the publisher work very hard to bring our paying readers high-quality reading entertainment. This is Paige Cameron’s livelihood. It’s fair and simple. Please respect Ms. Cameron’s right to earn a living from her work. Amanda Hilton, Publisher www.SirenPublishing.com www.BookStrand.com

DEDICATION To my son, Rob, who rushes over to help whenever my computer misbehaves, even if it’s on a workday evening. Thanks and love, Mom

A FLING WITH THE BILLIONAIRE COWBOY Wives for the Western Billionaires 5 PAIGE CAMERON Copyright © 2012

Prologue Dirk Brodie opened the hotel room and stood back to let Chelsea Pearce enter. Tonight she’d worn a skintight, shimmering green dress that hugged her curves and made her dark-green eyes glow like emeralds. He shut the door and put the lock on. She strolled across the room and opened the French doors to the balcony. The scent of sea air and flowers blew in to the room. Dirk poured a shot of bourbon for him and a bourbon and Coke for her. He followed her out onto the dark deck. “I made you a drink.” He handed her the glass. The clink of the ice sounded loud in the still night. “You seem thoughtful tonight. Is something bothering you?” Chelsea turned and smiled. “To us.” They clicked their glasses. “We go back to work tomorrow.” Dirk took her glass and his and walked back into the bedroom. “Then we don’t have any time to waste. Her seductive walk was enough to send a man’s temperature rising. She came right up to his body, put her arms around his neck, and kissed him. “Then what are we waiting for?” Her words purred against his

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mouth. Reaching behind her, he slid the zipper down, and the dress fell to the floor. Moonlight coming in the window etched her curvy body in silver. Underneath she wore a tiny bra made of lace, and matching bikini panties. The white lace glowed against porcelain skin. Short, red hair curled around her head. His dick had hardened when her gown fell to the floor. Heat pulsed in every nerve in his body. His hunger for her never seemed to go below simmer. “Are you going to look at me all night?” “I’m always amazed at your beauty. The times between our meetings I’d think you couldn’t possibly be as beautiful as I remembered. Then I see you and know my memories were right.” He took hold of her hand and kissed her palm. Going up her arm, he lingered at her wrist, his tongue licking the spot where her heart pounded. The next stop was the inside of her elbow. Slowly he moved upward to her shoulder and neck. Little tremors had started in her body. Dirk reached behind her and unfastened the wisp of lace and let it drop to the floor. His hands cupped her full, soft breasts. She took a deep breath and moaned. His thumbs rubbed across her pebbled nipples. Chelsea gripped his head as his mouth closed over one breast. Her fingers ran through his thick black hair. “Lay me on the bed and go inside me,” she pleaded. “We have all night, my love. Be patient.” He kissed her soft skin where her neck and shoulder met. Her pulse beat fast against his lips. His teeth nibbled at the edge of her jaw. Sliding down, he put his face in between her breasts and took a deep breath of her enticing scent. Going straight downward, his lips caressed the tender skin of her abdomen. He held her snugly at her hips. Then he rubbed his face across the soft hair covering her pink folds. His desire shot up his spine. His cock hard and ready to plunge in her. He stood, lifted Chelsea onto the bed, and spread her legs. His

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mouth covered her clit, and she screamed his name. “Ready?” He left her for a moment to throw off his clothes and put on a condom. Back at the bed, he straddled her body. She’d watched his every move and now held her arms out to him. Dirk leaned over her and ran his tongue around her peaked nipple. He suckled each breast before moving down and kissing her nub. Her body rose up to meet his lips. His tongue rubbed across her clit and along her folds. When he came to her pussy opening, his tongue darted inside. Chelsea bucked and begged him to take her. Dirk teased her a little more and then positioned his hard cock and plunged into her tight, wet pussy. She met his every stroke and took him deeper inside her pussy. Her hands grabbed his butt and held him tight. She was hot and wild. She bucked under him. Pleasure burst into every part of his body as he felt her pussy pulsing and clenching around him. He heard her yell as his orgasm hit him hard. He kept his cock tight against her womb as they began to recover. Their hearts were pounding, and the tremors slowly subsided. He rolled to keep his weight off her, but he held her close to the side of his body. A faint sheen of perspiration covered both of them. His heart still pounded like a jackhammer. Gradually their breathing returned to normal. He could feel her breaths slowing. She moved out of his embrace and took a thin, short, see-through gown off a hanger, slipping it on as she walked back out on the veranda. Palm trees hid her partially, but not completely. Dirk put his hands behind his head and observed her standing like a gorgeous statue some sculptor had created and left for all to admire. She appeared to hardly breathe. Dirk got out of bed. He pulled on his pants and walked out and stood behind her. “Why don’t you tell me what you’ve been thinking about all weekend,” she said.

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“How did you know I had something to say?” “You’re easy to read.” She turned to face him. “You’ve been quieter these past two days. And you’ve started to speak several times then changed your mind.” “You’re more observant than I thought.” He smiled at her. “Wait here.” He got their drinks and a light blanket. “I’ll put our bourbon on this table and we can snuggle in this chair with the blanket over us.” “Are you a prude, Dirk? You don’t approve of my attire for the balcony?” “I don’t like others seeing what is mine.” She walked toward him, but raised her eyebrows. “I don’t remember when I became yours. He sat and pulled her down, and then spread the blanket over them. “Relax. Don’t get your back up. You’re right. I do want to talk with you.” He hugged her tight. “My contract is up in two weeks, and I’m going home.” Chelsea raised herself so she could see his face. “Home?” “To Montana. I’m returning to my roots. I’m going to be a cowboy again.” “You’re teasing, right?” “Nope. What I wanted to ask was would you go back with me as my wife?” Her mouth dropped open. She jumped off the chair and stood over him, the blanket held tight around her. “You know being a foreign correspondent is my career. I need to be where the action is happening to report it to our people at home.” “You want to be there. Someone else would do the news if you didn’t. You put yourself in danger and take too many chances.” A frown formed across her brow. She paced across the small concrete area. “You,” she looked directly at him. “You don’t take my work seriously. It’s not important to you.” Dirk stood and took hold of her shoulders. “I admire your work,

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but it’s not important enough to lose your life. You’ve been lucky. But luck runs out eventually. Come home now while you’re ahead. I love you. I’ll take care of you.” He pulled a diamond ring from his pants pocket. She flung her hand angrily at his hand holding the ring. The engagement ring hit the concrete. It lay shining in the silver light. “I don’t need anyone to take care of me, and living as the wife of a cowboy would be the last thing I’d ever do.” She stormed into the bedroom. He heard her throwing clothes and other items into her suitcase. It had been late when they’d come back from dinner and dancing. Faint sunlight began to lighten the sky. Dirk stared out across the ocean as the day began. When she’d finished, she came to the balcony. He didn’t turn. “I’ll catch a ride to the airport and head back to the war zone to do my unimportant job.” He didn’t move until he heard the door snap shut. Then he picked up the ring he’d chosen with such care and slipped it into his pocket. His heart ached but not only because he’d lost the woman he loved. He feared she’d run into danger eagerly following the next big story, and she’d lose her life. He was ready to go home. Working overseas for eight years was long enough. He wanted to be close to his family and eventually marry and have a family of his own. But first, he had to get Chelsea Pearce out of his head and heart.

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Chapter One Dirk Brodie poured a cup of coffee and sat at his new kitchen table. He looked around the room. His house had been finished three weeks ago, and finally he had all the furniture in and curtains at the windows. The kitchen was large and bright. There were three windows looking out at a wide sweep of prairie. He was happy with his home, except it seemed empty. There were four bedrooms and three baths, a large great room, and a study for his desk and books. But after watching the happiness Ty had with his wife and now his baby daughter, he was envious. He’d never thought he would be ready to settle down, but he was. He had been for some time. His brother, Clay, had introduced him to a friend of his fiancée’s. Dirk didn’t like Clay’s fiancée. Her friend was just like her. Clay hadn’t understood his disinterest. The woman was beautiful, witty, and very cosmopolitan. Dirk chuckled to himself. She’d have never agreed to live on a ranch with the nearest town twenty miles away and very small. Anyway he’d felt no sparks. None with her or anyone else lately. He’d gotten up early, so he had time to read his big-city paper before he set out to work. Flipping open the newspaper, the headlines jumped out at him. Chelsea Pearce had been in a convoy attacked by rebels. He read down the article quickly. Three soldiers had been killed and two taken as hostage. Chelsea was also missing. A small picture of her was at the top the story. It had been taken at a remote outpost. She wore brown slacks and a tan top and a bulletproof vest. She grinned at the camera, showing a strong,

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confident smile. Taking long strides, he walked into the living room and turned on the television to get the latest news. There she was again, striding across the sand to join the convoy. One of the soldiers handed her a hard hat. Dirk watched as she swung into the truck and they began to move off from the outpost. The newscaster talked about the men lost and the ones missing. He described Chelsea as a good, tough reporter who was respected by the men. Dirk flipped his cell open and called Ty. “Hi, hope I didn’t wake you.” “What, you think I’m going soft?” Ty teased. “It takes a strong man to keep up with a tiny baby during the night.” “And you love it.” “Yeah, I do.” “Look, I know this isn’t the best time for me to ask to take a leave, but I have a private emergency I need to see about.” “No, that’s fine. You covered double time when I needed it. Any idea how long you’ll be gone, and is there anything I can do to help?” “I have no idea how much time I’ll need. I’d like Brent’s phone number. I need to ask him a favor.” “Sure.” Ty rattled off the number. “Keep in touch, if you can.” He hesitated. “And come back safe and sound.” “I didn’t say it was dangerous.” “You didn’t have to. You asked for Brent.” “Thanks, Ty. Take care of the family and if by chance I don’t get back”—his throat tightened for a second—“my will is in my safe here at the house.” “Damn, more dangerous than I thought. Sure you want to do this?” “Yeah.” Dirk hung up and called Brent. His wife, Angie, answered. “How are you, Dirk?”

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“Pretty good. I’d like to ask Brent a question. Is he nearby?” “He couldn’t wait to get out to the barn this morning. He has a new stallion he’s training. But he always carries his cell phone in case I need him.” She gave him the number. “Feel free to call him. He won’t mind.” “Thanks, Angie.” He hung up and quickly dialed the number. The minutes were ticking by. He was restless to get on his way. Fear for Chelsea stirred inside him. “Brent here.” “Brent, it’s Dirk.” “How are you? This is early for you to be calling. Are Ty, Lily, and the baby all right?” “Everyone is fine. But I need some information.” He told Brent all he knew from the paper and television. “I gather this lady is important to you.” “We were friends when I worked overseas.” “Seems a high risk to take for just a friend.” He waited a second and added. “I’ve pretty much turned over the agency to Mick. He occasionally contacts me to go over certain plans. I know he’s done several overseas jobs this past year. What you’re asking for could get you all in trouble with everyone, including our government. You may be stepping on some toes to take this on privately.” “Yeah. But we both know a small, elite force without the constraints of government can get in and out quicker, and hopefully safer. We’ll try to get all three of them out.” “I’ll run it by Mick and have him call you. Be ready to leave at a moment’s notice if he accepts the assignment.” “I’m ready now.” Brent chuckled. “Must be a very good friend.” He hung up. Dirk threw basics in a back pack and paced the floor waiting for his call. Thirty minutes later the phone rang. “Dirk Brodie?” “Yes.”

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“This is Mick Holster. I talked to Brent and to two of my men. One is an ex-SEAL, the other a crack sharpshooter. If we’re going to do this, we have to get in and out quick.” “I agree.” “I’m not sure about taking you along. We don’t need an inexperienced person to snag things up.” “I’ve done a few covert operations in the past. I’ve never told anyone, family or friends, just you. And you aren’t going without me.” There was silence on the other end for several seconds. “Brent said you were a good man. All right, I’ll take a chance this one time. We’ll pick you up in a helicopter in about two hours, and then head for a private airport I use. We’ll fly a roundabout way to our destination and make our plans during the flight. I have some contacts on the ground that can furnish us with an unmarked helicopter. We’ll bring our own weapons and ammunition.” “I’m ready and waiting.” **** The fierce gunfire had startled her, but she had confidence they’d manage to get through. When she saw the three men die and the other two outnumbered, her heartbeat went into overdrive. The fighters were covered in long cotton caftans. On their heads they wore turbans, and black kohl had been rubbed around their dark, fierce eyes. The one who appeared to be the leader grabbed her by the arm. “You are the trophy from this fight, and mine, for now. I may share you with my men if you displease me.” He reached out. A man handed him a large folded dark blue square. The leader shook it out and threw it over her head. “Now no one will see your fiery hair but me, as is proper. Tie her hands and throw her over my horse.” They put the two wounded men on horses and pulled the reins

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along behind them. The men were bent over, and Chelsea saw blood on them. She feared they’d never make it to wherever these animals were taking them. The leader kept his hand on her back. She bounced, jarring her middle every step his horse took. Once he let his hand roam down her back and cupped her buttocks. When she tried to move away from his touch, he laughed. “Get used to my touch. You are mine to do with as I please.” His harsh words sent a cold chill throughout her body. No one knew where they were. She doubted even if she was rescued that it would be in time to save her from this man’s assault. She’d never been afraid, not really, until now. She’d ridden motorbikes fast and hard, bungee jumped over a wide canyon, and canoed down a rapid river. When she’d left home, she became a daredevil, wanting to experience all she’d missed. But now in this dark place, far from home, for the first time she was really frightened. Dirk had warned her many times that she had been lucky, but luck never lasted forever. Why was he in her thoughts? He was home in Montana. He’d wanted a different life. He’d looked like a handsome cowboy when she tried to sneak onto the Terrell ranch. What would have happened if she’d gone back after her mother’s surgery and subsequent recovery? Would she still be here, a prisoner to a madman? She raised her head a little and saw a small village built against the side of the mountain. They’d arrived. Her time had run out.

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Chapter Two Dirk, Mick, and his men bent over a map of the area where it was thought the soldiers and Chelsea had been taken. They held flashlights to better see the roads and the small villages that were marked. So many weren’t even listed. “Our plane lands at this spot.” Mick made an X mark on the map. “We’ll pick up any new information and head out in the helicopter. My guess is they headed to this mountain range just over the border. They’ll believe no one will come in their direction right away. The soldiers will have to get permission to cross over. Whereas we don’t ask.” One of the men, called Devil, spoke up. “If we’re caught, we won’t be treated well by either country, theirs or ours.” He looked at Dirk. “You understand the risk you’re taking?” “I do.” Satisfied, he shook his head. “Good.” Dirk tried to sleep like the others, but he couldn’t. Every time he closed his eyes, he saw her face. A few more hours and they’d finally be close to where they thought she was being held. He doubted they’d get there in time to save her from an assault. Hopefully they’d be able to save her life. Thoughts buzzed around in his head until finally the pilot announced they were landing. The plane curved to the left and began to descend. Dirk’s heart beat quicker. Finally they were going to be doing something. “Ready, team?” Mick glanced at them all, including Dirk. “This is it. We get the copter and head out. Chuck, you’ll pilot the helicopter,

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too.” As soon as the plane landed, they got off. Two tall, dark-skinned men wearing turbans met them outside the tiny, wood office. Dirk saw money change hands, and then Mick was handed a key. They spoke low to Mick. Dirk couldn’t catch enough of the words to know what info they were relaying. Mick motioned them to the helicopter sitting to the right. They ran across the tarmac and got in. Mick handed the key to Chuck. In minutes they were in the air. “Those two said rumor had it that a small band had taken prisoners, one a woman. He gave me an idea of where they might be hiding out. As we expected, it’s over the border. We’ll fly close to the area, land, and go the last distance on foot. In the back of the helicopter are caftans and turbans. We’ll use dirt as a camouflage to cover our faces. Any questions?” “No.” They all responded. It was in the middle of the night, and the copter sounded loud in the emptiness of the sky and below. Chuck went higher and circled first one set of mountains and then another. Nothing. Time was of the essence and running out. “Take a pass over that small group of mountains to the left,” Devil said. He adjusted his night goggles and leaned out the side window. “There, see? It blends right into the wall of the mountain, and it’s smaller than we expected. But I’ll bet that’s them.” Dirk saw what he meant when the helicopter turned away and he could see it out of his side. “I agree,” he said. “All right. Let’s put this baby down, not too far. If we fuck up, we don’t want to have to run a long distance with prisoners who may be wounded.” Chuck eased the copter into a small area on the other side of the mountain. From there they’d be hidden fairly well. “If they didn’t hear us, we’ll have the element of surprise. If they did, this is going to be messy. Chuck, you stay here with the machine

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gun to protect our escape route. Dirk and Devil, follow me.” Mick led the way carrying a rifle and another one loaded and slung over his shoulder. They crept around the mountain and sat to survey the camp. The fires were out. No one moved around the tents. One guard at each end sat watching the darkness. Both were nodding off. Mick motioned to Devil. He raised his rifle equipped with a silencer. First one guard and then the other fell over. “Damn, that’s the finest shooting I’ve ever seen,” Dirk whispered, and stared at Devil. Mick motioned them forward. They moved from boulder to boulder, keeping hidden as long as they could. Finally they had to step out into the open. Mitch motioned for Devil to take the tent on the end at the right, and he’d take the left. The middle tent, bigger, and obviously a bit grander, must belong to the leader. They’d discussed that he probably had Chelsea. Dirk had taken a step forward when a head poked out between the tent flaps. It was a woman, but she was covered from head to foot in a burka. Still when she moved into the open, he knew from her height and walk that it was Chelsea. She hadn’t seen him yet, but she’d glimpsed the other two going into the tents. She swung her head in his direction and then took off running toward him. “What the hell?” Dirk whispered. “Were you trying to escape?” “I was going to.” Dirk nodded toward where they’d left the copter. “Go in that direction, turn right, and you’ll find a man protecting our helicopter. I’m going to wait to make sure the other two don’t get into trouble. Run.” Chelsea nodded and took off running barefooted across the dirt filled with little stones. If it hurt her feet, he’d never know. She went quickly in the direction he’d pointed out. Meanwhile Dirk had seen Chuck peek in the end tent on the right and step back outside. He moved toward the tent where Mick had entered. Mick came to the door carrying one man and motioned to

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Chuck to get the other. Mick handed the man to Dirk. “Take him to the copter. If things get bad here, take off and save at least the two.” Mick ran back to help Devil. Dirk ran as quick as he could with the wounded soldier. Thank goodness someone had undressed him. If he’d had his battle armor on, there was no way Dirk would been able to run. As he got to the helo, he heard the first gunfire. “Take him.” He saw Chelsea huddled in the corner. “If it gets to rough take off and save them.” He ran back and saw Mick coming toward him carrying the other soldier. Devil was following behind and shooting as fast as he could. Dirk passed Mick and joined Devil in the gunfight. Between them, they were winning. Devil didn’t miss a shot. Dirk only missed a few, but bullets still whizzed around them. They rounded the corner and saw Mick putting the man on board and climbing into the copter. Dirk waved for them to take off, and the helicopter rose straight up and flew right out of sight. As they’d risen, Mick had dropped more ammo and waved. Devil and Dirk hid in the shadows as the fighters came around the mountain too late to hit the copter with bullets. But they tried. Dirk and Devil held their breath and had their guns ready. But the men must have thought they all got away. They turned and walked back around the mountain. The men said something as they went out of sight. Dirk had a thing for languages. He knew quite a few of the words. “They’re planning to check this area out in the morning. They figure if anyone was left behind, they’ll never be able to hide from them.” “Let’s get the ammo. We’ll surprise them at how well we can hide and make our way to the border. We know where Mick will be looking to pick us up. We need to start walking now.” Keeping on their night goggles they checked their compass and headed out. They hid behind boulders and small hills as much as

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possible. The quickest way home was not the most protected. With luck they’d make the meeting place by early morning. Whatever happened, Chelsea was safe. That was the most important thing to Dirk. “Where’d you learn to shoot like that?” Dirk asked when they stopped for a few minutes to take a drink of water. “It’s too long a story for now. But I started early in the bayous of Louisiana.” “I thought I heard a hint of an accent.” “Damn, I thought I’d lost it long ago.” Devil grinned. “Guess when a man’s under pressure, a lot of things come out.” Devil stood. “We’ve got to get on our way. You’re in pretty good condition for a cowboy.” “Cowboys stay in good shape,” Dirk said, and grinned back at Devil. **** Both wounded soldiers had bled a lot, and they were unconscious. Mick ran his hand through his hair. He couldn’t wait until morning to get them to a base. They needed help now. “Patch me into the American forces.” Chuck glanced at him. “I know. We’re going to have trouble, but we don’t have a choice.” He thought for a second. “Wait. Ask for Major Howard. I think he’ll work with us.” “Before you do”—Chelsea put her hand on his arm—”you’d better know I think I killed their leader.” “What?” Mick stared at her. He was going to attack me. He planned to do it the first night in camp, but some high chieftain came to visit. They had meetings through the night and all day.” She swallowed and looked out the window. Mick waited for her to continue. He noticed her trembling

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hands. “He left just after dark. The leader of the group who kidnapped me sent for me a few hours later. Everyone was settling down for the night. The guy pushed me into the tent. The place was empty. “I was lucky. They had untied my hands when we got to the camp. They didn’t believe I would be any problem. I searched all around the tent and found a short, thin knife hidden under clothes in a trunk.” Chelsea bit her lip. “When he came into the tent, I was ready for him. I shoved the knife into his gut, and before he made a sound, swung a heavy kettle at his head. He groaned, but not too loud.” Perspiration formed on her brow as she talked. Mick started to stop her talking. She waved him aside. “Let me get it out. I figured he probably told his men not to bother him during the night. It was nerve-racking, but I waited until all went quiet and decided to step outside. If anyone questioned me I’d say I had to relieve myself. I’m doubtful it would have worked. Still I had to think of something to say if caught. And then Dirk was there and you all.” “Shit, I’m not sure who you killed. Hopefully it was someone the soldiers have been wanting to capture.” He tipped her face up to look him directly in the eye. “This is what we’re going to do. When they find him dead, they’ll be sure one of us killed him. They don’t know our identity. No one but us will know you did it, and we won’t tell. “Your life would be in too much danger if they thought you’d done it. They won’t suspect a woman could kill such a man.” Mick glanced at Chuck. “Right?” “Right.” “Make that call for the Major. We need to get these men help and get back to rescue Devil and Dirk.” When the Major got on the line, Mick gave him a brief review of what happened. “Where can we meet and give you the soldiers?” “What about the war correspondent?” the Major asked. “We’re taking her to a secure location. She’s fine, but not ready to deal with the press and all the questions. Can you do this and keep our

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identities out of it?” “Hell yes. I’ll send a helicopter with my SEALs and a medic. They know how to keep their mouths shut. We’ll say a friendly village sent us word, and we picked them up. We won’t name the village, either.” “Sounds good. Make it fast. I’m stopping where I hope to meet up with the two men I had to leave behind. They’ll be here at daybreak or a little after.” “We’ll be on our way in minutes. Give me the coordinates.” **** Dirk climbed the last hill as the sun peeked across the horizon. Devil was right behind him. Dirk had never been so glad to see that helicopter. The blades were turning, so they’d been sighted. They both ran a zigzag path toward the copter. Mick reached out and helped each one of them inside. They fell on the floor exhausted as they took off into the blue sky. Light was coming fast. “We have to get to the small airport where we left our plane and get out of this territory,” Mick said. Chuck responded by flying the copter as fast as it would go. Dirk rose up and looked around. Chelsea sat in the back, her knees pulled up to her chest. Her arms wrapped around them. “I’m glad you’re safe. I’d have never forgiven myself if you’d died rescuing me.” “All in day’s work,” Dirk said, hoping to bring a smile to her face. But she looked pale and haunted. “There’s the hut and our plane.” Chuck pointed to the west. “They all spotted the wooden shack, and the plane shining silver in the morning light. In the distance they spotted a dust cloud. “As soon as we land this, run for the plane,” Mick directed. “I’ll throw some more money at the guys at the landing strip. Chuck, you

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have the plane geared up and ready for takeoff. There’s no time for a long checklist. We’re going on faith.” The men nodded. Dirk motioned for Chelsea to come to him. “I’ll help you across the tarmac.” Her face flushed. “I’m not injured. I can probably outrun you with all the walking you had to do last night. Don’t baby me.” She pulled away from where he had his arm around her. The dust cloud was moving quicker in their direction. Chuck landed the helicopter and gave the key to Mick. They all ran toward the plane. Dirk glanced back and saw Mick greet the two men from last night. Money and the key changed hands, and then Mick ran to the plane. Dirk waited and they both got on last. Devil slammed the door shut as Chuck started taxiing down the strip. Dirk and Mick looked out the side window. “The jeep is full of armed guerillas. Step on it, Chuck, they’re trying to catch us,” Mick said. “This baby won’t just jump into the sky. Hold on.” He gunned the motors and tilted the nose up. A bullet hit the side of the plane just as the front lifted. They moved up fast into the clouds. “We’re out of their reach. I hope they didn’t hit any vital parts,” Chuck said. “Devil, come up here and do a belated checklist for me.” Mick nodded his head at Chelsea. She was pulled up into the fetal position again. “What are we going to do with her?” “I have an idea. But tell me how you took care of the soldiers.” “That’s a long story. Have a seat.” He handed Dirk and Devil a bottle of water and an energy bar. “I had a friend in high places.” Mick began to tell them how the SEALs had met them a few hours before dawn. “They weren’t sure the men would live, but we gave them a shot at surviving.” Mick explained what story the Major was going to tell. “And what about her?” Dirk looked across at Chelsea. “I told him we were taking her to a secure, private place to

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regroup before facing the reporters.” Dirk smiled. “Exactly what I was thinking about. I know just the place.”

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Chapter Three When they stopped to refuel, Dirk found a phone to make a longdistance call. “Brent, doesn’t one of your friends or someone in the family have a private island somewhere?” “Well, hello to you, too,” Brent teased. “I gather everyone is in one piece and you were successful?” “Yeah, we were lucky. But Chelsea’s had a rough time. She needs a place out of sight to recuperate.” “Drake has a private island. It’s really nice. I’ll call him and make the arrangements. On your next stop, call me back. Oh, and by the way, a friendly village found the wounded soldiers. They were picked up by our guys.” “Are they going to survive?” “Too soon to tell, but for now they’re alive. By the way, the newspeople are clamoring to know what happened to the war correspondent. “They say when the soldiers raided the camp and killed or took the rest as prisoners, she wasn’t there. That’s all over the news right now,” Brent said. “Yeah. Exactly the reason we’re going to hide out for a while. It’ll give her time to decompress.” Dirk put down the phone. He was glad to hear the men were still alive and that Chelsea had disappeared. He had an idea it was best if she stayed that way. At least for a while. Mick was waiting for him at the door to the plane. “Did you make your call?” “Yes, Brent will let me know if we can use the island when I call

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him back at our next stop.” “He’d better, because that’s our last stop before flying into US territory. What are you going to do about a passport for her on your return?” “I’m not sure. I have some ideas. You’re going to explain my absence, that I stayed on vacation and you all had to get back to work, right?” Dirk asked. “Right, no problem.” **** Chelsea heard them talking about her, but it didn’t register. She didn’t care where they were taking her. Fatigue had soaked into every pore in her body. If she lay down on a comfortable bed, she’d sleep for days. If the nightmares didn’t wake her. Now every time she closed her eyes she saw the tribal leader’s face, the shock of the knife going in him to the hilt. It had slid in easier than she’d expected. Blood poured out, and then the crack when she hit his head with the unlit lantern. She’d never harmed anyone or anything. Her stomach rebelled, and she’d heaved her guts out in the corner of the tent. If any of his men had come in, they would have killed her instantly. Tremors raked her body even now when she thought about how afraid she’d been. The metallic smell of the blood wouldn’t leave her nostrils. Dirk must have seen her shaking. He came over, pushed the arm up between the seats and pulled her into his arms. “It’s all right, baby. In war you do what you have to do to survive.” Chelsea raised her head. “I killed a man.” Tears poured down her face. “I know.” He brushed her hair back and wiped the tears off her cheeks with his fingers. “The good news is the two soldiers are alive and getting medical care. The bad guy you killed was one of the leaders of the resistance. And we’re headed home.”

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“I can’t go home.” She grabbed his arm. “All the newspeople will want to hear my story again and again.” “I agree. You and I are going to make a stopover for a few days. “Where. The news is all over the world.” She straightened in her seat away from his closeness. “I’m trying to set up a vacation on a private island.” “How many people live there?” The thought of facing anyone right now made her want to crawl into a hole. “It will be you and me.” “I don’t want any kind of relationship. Not now.” “I didn’t think you would. We’ll take the time to get reacquainted in a more civilized way than our past experiences.” “You’ll leave me alone. I need time to think.” “To a certain extent. I don’t intend to stand by and watch you go into a deep depression and not do something.” Was she depressed? This world she’d been thrown into was dark, and gray, and scary. She shivered. Dirk pulled her tight against his warm body. She threw out her arms and pushed him away, hitting at his arms and chest. “You’re too close.” He stood. “Try to lie across the seats and sleep.” Dirk turned and went up front to join the other men. When Dirk had pulled her tight, he brought back the memory of the man who kidnapped her. He’d pulled her tight and forced a kiss on her mouth before he sent her to the tent where the soldiers lay barely alive. He’d warned her when she came back to his tent he planned to make her his for as long as she pleased him. She’d wiped the back of her hand across her mouth and spit in the sand. Fury had reddened his face. He’d hit her with his fist in her stomach, then kicked her out. His men had laughed, and then had taken her to another tent. They’d thrown her inside. She’d known when he sent for her again, he’d not only rape her, but beat her. While she sat in the tightly guarded tent she’d tried to help the

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soldiers. She dribbled small amounts of water between their lips and talked to them. She told them to hang on, that help was coming. And all the time she hoped she wasn’t lying. Late at night she thought of how she might kill her attacker before he could hurt her. She wasn’t ready for a man to touch her or hold her close. Not Dirk or anyone. She’d try to sleep and forget for a few minutes. The plane landing woke her. She’d slept restlessly for short periods. “Would you like to get off and walk around?” Mick asked. “Dirk is going to be making some phone calls.” Chelsea stood and moved her arms and legs. “I am getting stiff. Thank you.” Mick handed her a scarf. “Wear this to keep anyone from recognizing you. We’ll stay close to the plane.” She followed him off and walked around on the tarmac. Although her hair and the lower part of her face were covered, she enjoyed the cool breeze blowing over her. Mick stayed by her side. “Do you do this type of work all the time?” Chelsea asked him. “No. Most of our work is finding someone stateside or protecting a person, a variety of different types of jobs. Still, occasionally we get a request to rescue people held against their will. Often it’s not a job that can be done by the government for various reasons. We’re paid to quietly do difficult jobs.” “Soldiers of fortune.” “Some would call us that. But we only work for the good guys.” “Thank you for rescuing me. All of you.” “It was our pleasure. I see Dirk heading our way. We’d better get on board.” **** They all boarded the plane, and Chuck took off. Dirk spread out a map. “It’s all arranged. Here’s the spot. If you can drop us off first, it

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would be a real help. But we could be left off at one of the nearby islands and take a boat over to Drake’s place.” “We’ll take you. No need to chance someone recognizing her before you can get her safely hidden away.” “Thanks. After this is over, send me a bill.” “No way. You’re like family.” “I appreciate the thought, but I insist. I can afford it. Take advantage of me.” “I’ll send you the cost of the trip, and the salary for Chuck and Devil. My part was free gratis. I won’t change my mind about that.” “You are a hard man to negotiate with, but thanks for all the help and being quick.” Mick glanced back to where Chelsea lay on her seat. “She’s a good lady, tough. She’ll come through with patience and help.” “I hope so. I plan to marry her.” “Does she know?” Dirk grinned. “Not yet.” The last part of their trip seemed to take forever. Dirk checked on Chelsea several times. If she wasn’t sleeping, she was a good actress. He wanted to run his fingers through the short, fiery strands of her hair and kiss the spot where her neck and shoulder met. Her shirt and slacks were grimy from wearing them so many days. What could he do about clothes? They could leave off clothes and go naked. He didn’t have a problem with running around sans clothing. But he doubted Chelsea would agree to that plan. Brent had said Drake would be sending the plane to the closest island, so it would be there when they wanted to return. If it hadn’t left yet, perhaps Drake’s wife could buy her some essentials and send them along? “We’re close. We’ll be landing in about fifteen minutes,” Chuck hollered back to them. Chelsea groaned and sat up. She stared out the window. Dirk moved to the window seat in front of her. The sun sparkled

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on beautiful, clear, aquamarine water. To the right was an island. From the air, it looked small, but got larger as Chuck went into his landing pattern. Dirk saw a long runway, a winding road up into the hills and at the top a gorgeous house with windows shining in the sunlight. Just seeing the pretty jewel in the vast ocean with no one nearby raised Dirk’s hopes that it would bring peace to Chelsea. He turned his head and smiled at her. “Better fasten your seat belt. How does the island look to you?” “Like heaven.” “I think so, too.” He turned and moved up front to sit by Mick. The exchange was quick. Mick and the guys were anxious to get home. Once Dirk and Chelsea had gotten off, they said their goodbyes, and in no time the jet was a spot in the distance. Dirk walked across the tarmac to a Jeep parked at the side. A key hung in the ignition. “Brent said the caretakers would leave the Jeep for us to use to get to the house. They’ve already left the island.” Dirk swung inside and motioned for Chelsea to join him. She got in. He started the engine and turned toward the curvy road. Flowers of all varieties and colors grew along the roadside and further inland. Their scent sweetened the salty air. Gentle waves crashing to shore provided a soothing sound as they rode along. “This really seems like paradise. I don’t see how Drake and his wife stay away from here.” “Brent says all the family visits from time to time, and Drake and his wife come on their anniversary and in the summer with the kids. But they love the ranch life, too.” Chelsea glanced at her clothes. “I can’t wait to get a bath, but I have nothing clean to put on.” Dirk explained how he hoped to get clothes sent to her. “Until then, you can always go naked.” She threw him a frightened glance.

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“I was teasing. I promised to keep my distance, unless you want to change the rules.” “All right.” She rubbed her hands on her legs. Her body had tensed up. “Smell the flowers, look at the ocean, listen to the waves,” he encouraged her. Chelsea gave him a shy smile. Not at all like the old Chelsea. “I’ve been a lot of trouble for you. What about your ranch?” “Ty will handle things until I get back. I’m going to call him later.” He turned right onto the curved driveway. He got out and came around to open Chelsea’s door, but she was already out and slowly turning to take in all the view. Bright sunlight made her red hair glow and caressed her creamcolored skin. The wind whistled through the trees. “This is so beautiful,” Chelsea said, and raised her face to the sun. “Let’s go inside and explore. You must be hungry. If I never see another energy bar, it will be too soon.” Dirk put his hand at her waist and walked her to the front door. The key was in the lock. “I guess if no one else is on the island, there’s no reason to lock up.” Sliding glass doors to the verandas had been left open. The scent of fruit and flowers filled the air. “Brent gave me the layout. Let’s go down this hall. I think you’ll like the room on the left. It faces the sunset.” Dirk opened the door and let her enter first. **** The walls were a soft peach color, and the drapes and carpet were done in a deeper shade. A pretty light-green bath adjoined the bedroom. “I do like it. It’s very peaceful. I’m taking a shower right this minute. I’ll wrap up in a sheet if necessary.” She pushed Dirk back out the door, and then closed and locked it.

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Finally, she was alone. She walked into the bathroom, smelled the fancy soaps, and studied the deep tub beside the shower. She’d soak first, and afterward wash her hair and rinse in the shower. It might take her hours to get clean. Dirk knocked on the door. What could he possibly want? Chelsea peeked around the door’s edge. “I thought you might like a snack before you wash and rest.” He handed her a tray holding a plate of shrimp with cocktail sauce, crackers, grapes, and cheese. And for dessert, chocolate truffles. To drink there was a cold glass of water and a tall glass of white wine. “This is perfect. Thank you. I seem to be saying that a lot. I don’t know how to repay you and your friends.” “Don’t worry about it. Enjoy.” Dirk leaned forward and kissed her cheek before she knew what to expect. He closed the door, and she heard him walking away. Chelsea sat at a small table by a window that looked out over the island. Mostly she saw treetops and the azure water of the ocean. The shrimp and fruit were delicious. She finished all of it and took the glass of wine in the bathroom with her. A sigh of relief escaped when she shed her dirty clothes. She’d run the water fairly hot. She sank into the warmth. Leaning back, she rested her head on the pillow attached to the back of the tub. On the side was a button. She pushed it, and rose-scented water whirled around her. All her tight, hurting muscles began to relax. Taking a washcloth, she lathered some of the fancy soap and began to rub her body clean. Then she lay back and sipped her wine. After her wine was finished, she washed her hair in the shower and rinsed off the rest of her body. Once she was all clean and dry, Chelsea looked through drawers for any type of clothing. In the closet was a large cotton man’s shirt. That would have to do for a nightgown. She put it on and climbed into the plush bed. Luxurious pillows and mattress encased her body in softness, and her mind gave in to exhaustion.

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**** Dirk picked the lock and peeked inside. Chelsea slept curled on her side. Tiptoeing, he walked to the bed. Her breaths were gentle. One hand was tucked under her cheek. She looked vulnerable. He’d never expected to think of her that way. Overseas she’d been tough, amusing, confident, and sexy. He’d never wanted to hold her in his arms and protect her as much as he did now. She wasn’t ready for him to touch her. What would she say when he suggested they marry while she stays hidden from the public? A lot, he expected. If she agreed, he hoped to later convince her to make their marriage last for forever. He had called about the clothes. Janice was sending some items for both of them with the plane. Dirk went back out and locked the door so Chelsea wouldn’t know he’d checked on her. He went into the opposite bedroom and took a quick shower. He’d found several pairs of swim trucks obviously left for guests. After putting on a pair, he headed to the pool. Chelsea wouldn’t wake up tonight. He’d swim, eat a bite, and turn in early, too. Tomorrow, when he was rested, he’d come up with a list of activities they might do to keep themselves entertained. Dirk chuckled to himself. He knew one activity he’d love, but that wasn’t going to happen, not right away. His cock had hardened when he’d looked at her sleeping. His body ached with the desire to be inside her warm pussy. He’d take a plunge in the pool and cool off. Taking long strides through the large living room, he went out on the wide veranda and down to the next terrace where the pool was situated. He dove into the deep end and did laps until his raging desire had gone to a slow simmer. Later, in the kitchen, he made a sandwich of wheat bread, ham, and cheese, and popped a beer open. He sat on the veranda watching the sun begin to set. Once it sank out of sight, he cleaned the kitchen

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and went to bed. Exhaustion pulled him into sleep until a woman screamed, a door slammed, and a soft body landed on top of him.

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Chapter Four “What the hell?” Dirk tried to orient himself to what was happening. Feminine arms held him tight and tears fell on his chest. Soft, sweet-smelling, red hair brushed against his chin. “Chelsea, what’s wrong?” He put his arms around her and rolled where she was lying more against his side. His hard-as-a-rock dick might frighten her more than the bad dream she must have had. Taking the corner of the sheet, he wiped the tears from her face. “You’re safe, Chelsea. No one can get you here.” He felt her take a deep breath. She leaned her head back and looked at him. “He was alive and bloody and coming after me with a sword.” “You had a nightmare, honey.” Dirk hugged her tighter. “He’s dead. And the soldiers took care of the rest of the group. They’re either dead or prisoners.” Dirk kissed the top of her head. “You’ll always be safe with me.” As she woke up more, the tremors stopped. Then she realized she was pasted against his body. “You’re nude.” She jumped back. “Let me go.” He opened his arms. She quickly got out of bed and ran to the door. “I won’t bother you again.” She blushed as she left the room. “It’s no problem,” he called out. “Come in anytime.” He glanced down at his cock, hard and at attention. “Damn, we need another cold shower. I’m going to hate cold water by the time I leave here.” The sky outside the window was lighter. There wouldn’t be any more sleep for him tonight. The jet was due to arrive this morning with their clothes. He’d keep an eye out. He’d drive the Jeep to the

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landing strip and pick up the suitcases. For now he’d wear the swimming trunks he had on last night. Dirk stopped when he started to walk down the hall. He slipped in her room and got her dirty clothes, then threw hers and his in the washer nearby. In the kitchen he watched the sun rise over the ocean. Gentle waves broke across the shore. He peeked in the fridge and found all the ingredients for a fabulous breakfast. Humming to himself he prepared pancake mix, fried bacon, and beat eggs for an omelet. Hopefully the coffee perking might send an aroma down the hall and wake sleeping beauty. If not, in a few more minutes he’d knock on her door. Dirk had turned his back to pour orange juice in two glasses when he felt eyes staring at him. He turned and smiled. “Good morning, morning glory.” Chelsea had put on a yellow bathing suit with a short robe over it. Her hair was tousled, and her face clean and clear of any makeup. She looked about twenty instead of the thirty years old he knew her to be. “It smells good in here.” “I’m hungry, and thought you might be, too.” “Starved.” She walked around him and drank all the juice in one of the glasses. “Want more?” “No. I’ll pour our coffee. Do you mind if I take mine out to the veranda?” “Go ahead. I’m almost finished here. They have a rolling trolley in the corner.” He motioned to the left. “I can bring everything out at once on that.” “See you soon.” He couldn’t resist watching her stroll outside. Her curvy body and especially long, slender legs were a sight to admire. The smell of bacon about to burn brought his attention back to his cooking. He quickly threw chopped vegetables and cheese into the omelet and put

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toast in the toaster. In the cupboard he found syrup for the pancakes, grabbed butter, and served up the food. The trolley was full when he had placed all the dishes on it. Chelsea was staring at the sea. She’d put on sunglasses and had drunk most of her coffee. Dirk sprinted back for the coffee carafe. “Hopefully I haven’t forgotten anything,” he said as he sat across from her. “I hope not, too. That’s enough food for six people. Are we expecting company?” “The jet will land, drop off our suitcases on the tarmac, and fly off. I’m afraid you are stranded with only me for company.” “It’s going to be very boring for you. I’m not in a mood to socialize.” Her face paled. She turned to look toward the sea. “You can be alone as much as you want, but I’ll be here if you’d like to talk. It doesn’t have to be anything serious. “I’m sure there’s lots we don’t know about each other. You being from a farm in Wyoming is something you never told me. At least not until that brief encounter when I caught you trying to sneak over the fence onto our ranch. Remember when you hoped to interview Lily? We have the time now for you to share with me all about your childhood, your growing up on the farm, and how you went off to explore the world, or not.” He took up his fork and started to eat, relieving her of the necessity of replying. **** Chelsea turned back to glance at Dirk. He was pouring syrup on his pancakes. His black hair shone in the sunlight. When he reached across to fill her coffee cup, her eyes lingered on his tanned chest and broad shoulders. “Excuse me for coming to the table without a shirt. I never do that, but I just couldn’t put on that dirty one.”

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“That’s all right. I got lucky and found this wrap in the closet. I’m glad clothes for us will be here soon.” She dipped her head and started eating. He might think she was staring at him. She had been for a second. Looking at him had briefly let her forget the last few days, but she wasn’t ready to let any man too close. “I can move this table more into the shade. I don’t want you to get sunburned.” “I found sunscreen in the bathroom and slathered it on. I’ll be fine for a little while. I’m going for a walk after breakfast. I spotted a path that goes from here to the beach. There’s a large straw hat in my bedroom. I’ll borrow it.” “While you’re gone I’ll pick up our clothes. See that spot on the horizon? If I’m not mistaken, that’s the jet coming our way. We can see it land from here.” They both watched as the dot became a plane and then turned to line up with the landing strip. Chelsea pushed back from the table. “Thank you. That was a very good breakfast. I’m going to get the hat and head down the path.” “Sure you don’t want company?” “Not today.” She felt his stare as she went into the house. **** Chelsea took her time walking down the curving path that led through gardens with blossoms of every color. There were also sections of flowering trees and ones baring fruit, lemon, lime, and oranges. The air was fragrant with all the various scents. The war zone was miles away. It seemed like two opposite worlds. The dark, gray, dusty world she’d left behind, and this jewel-like fantasy island where they’d landed. She realized her true life was somewhere in between, held in suspension temporarily. When Chelsea got to the beach, she kicked off her flip-flops and wriggled her toes in the warm, white sand. Waves crashed against the shore and seagulls dove for food. She tossed her short robe aside and

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walked along the edge of the water. The air touched her skin softly, and the breeze blew lightly through her short curls. None of this seemed real. It was too beautiful to truly exist, but it did. She settled in a shady spot and leaned against a palm tree. Peace settled within her. She closed her eyes and, for the first time in years, meditated. “Are you OK?” Dirk’s voice brought her back to reality. “I saw you from up at the villa. When I checked later, and you hadn’t moved for a long time, I got worried.” His spicy scent tickled her nose. He stood tall and strong beside her. A really handsome man, but not one of the cardboard, can’t-havea-hair-out-of-place types. No, he was naturally good-looking, in clothes or out. And he didn’t appear to be aware of his effect on women when he walked into a room. She’d seen it happen the first time she met him in a bar in Italy. Her heart had beat fast, and she, along with every other woman nearby, stared at him. When he smiled, you could almost hear the women moan. “Are you in a trance? You haven’t answered my question.” Chelsea shook her head to clear her thoughts. “Sorry. I’d been meditating.” “Did it help?” “I think so.” He put his hand out and pulled her up, then wrapped her arm around his and began to walk. “Let’s look for shells before we have lunch at the villa.” “Is that all you think about, eating?” “Until I get caught up from the past few days, yes.” “A typical male.” He ignored her comment and picked up her wrap and put it on her. Then he led her down the beach in the opposite direction from where she’d walked. They stopped frequently to pick up shells of all sizes and colors. Dirk had the pockets of her wrap and his hands full when they got back to the house.

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“I’ll rinse the dirt out of them here by the house. You better go on in. You’ve had a good deal of sun today.” “I was in the shade the majority of time,” Chelsea said as she waved and strode up the two terraces and into the living room. A shower would be nice to get off the salt and sand. Inside her bedroom door was a suitcase. Clothes at last. She put the case on a chair and opened it. Janice had enclosed a note. Hi Chelsea, Welcome to our vacation home. I hope you enjoy yourselves. I bought you some underwear. I hope it fits. Dirk guessed at your jean size. I guessed at the rest. There are some new things, and some older jeans and shirts of mine that I thought you might want to wear exploring. Oh, and I bought a sundress I saw and couldn’t resist. Treat the place as yours, and stay as long as you like. Hope to meet you some day. Janice What a lovely gesture. She blinked her eyes to keep back the tears. What was wrong with her? She’d never got weepy in the past. She pulled the clothes out of the case. Janice had guessed right on the sizes. And the old jeans and shirts would fit, too. Although the jeans might be a tad short. She’d shower, and then dressed in proper clothes she’d feel more herself. From the bottom of the suitcase she pulled out a dress with a heart-shaped bodice and full skirt. The material was a mixture of colors from green to blue. They blended together. It was perfect for her. Tucked in a side pocket of the suitcase were light-blue sandals and a tiny note. For a romantic evening. She’d wear the dress once just before they left. She was looking for peace, not romance. Her heart beat faster at the thought, and her stomach clenched. But it would be so easy to slip back into the casual fling they’d had in the past. Chelsea didn’t know what she wanted, but she knew she didn’t want that. Not yet, anyway. She hung the dress in the closet and sat

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the shoes on the floor under it then put the rest of the clothes in the closet or drawers. Heading toward the bathroom, she carried an older pair of jeans and a soft, gray cotton shirt. She’d get her bra out of the washer and dry it. That apparently was one item Janice didn’t try to guess the size. Later, coming out of her bedroom door, she faced Dirk as he came out of his at the same time. His eyes roamed from her head to her bare feet. “Glad to have something to wear?” he asked. Chelsea was immediately conscious of not having on her bra. She didn’t look down for fear her nipples were hard pebbles against the soft material. A heated flush went over her face. “I’m going to put our clothes in the washer into the dryer.” “Sorry I forgot them after I put them in to wash.” “No problem. I’ll put yours on your bed when they’re dry.” “Shall we adjourn to the kitchen and make sandwiches? Or since it’s the middle of the afternoon, we could do an early dinner.” “I’m fine with sandwiches, if you are. I’m not very hungry.” He motioned for her to lead the way. It felt awkward. Their conversation was stilted. They’d never lacked for something to say or do when they’d met on their leaves overseas. It was her fault. He was following her lead in more ways than one. Dirk turned on the light. “It’s cloudy outside. See the storm clouds in the distance, and the air is chilly.” She had glanced in the cupboard. “Here’s tomato soap. I’ll make grilled cheese sandwiches and have the soup with it. It’ll hit the spot while we watch the storm go by.” “I’ll leave you to it. I’d better close some windows and doors.” It didn’t take long to fix the meal. She sat the food on a low table by a couch. Sitting there they could see all around and watch the storm begin to rustle the palm fronds, and then howl around the house. The sky went from gray to darker and lightning flashed close by. One big boom had Chelsea jumping toward Dirk. He held her

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close as the storm whirled around the house on the top of the hill. “When I was little, storms scared me. My mother said not to worry, that the thunder and lightning were warriors in fierce battle, but the good guys would always win and the sun would come back out. I imagined superhuman men with huge swords and shields. Every boom from the lightning meant a warrior had hit the other’s shield. When it quieted I pictured the two shaking hands and walking off in opposite directions.” She glanced up at his face. “I had a wild imagination.” “My brothers and I were always fighting battles. Sometimes I got to win, but usually my older brother, who was taller than the rest of us, managed to slay us all and win the hand of the fair maiden.” “And who was this maiden?” “My sister. She insisted on playing that part. That’s why we didn’t really care that he won all the time. She’d put on long dresses and wear a tiara. It was the only time she acted like a girly girl.” He grinned. “She had a time putting up with all five of us. Do you have siblings?” “A brother who took over the ranch when Dad couldn’t keep up with it anymore. He thinks I’m crazy for moving to the big city, and then going overseas. My folks built a smaller house for themselves. It’s in a far corner of the farm, a good distance from the original home we grew up in. Dad still helps out on the easier jobs.” Chelsea quit talking and realized she was still sitting close against Dirk, and his warm arms were wrapped around her. Intrigued by their conversation, she had let herself relax and stay where she felt safe. She stared at his sensuous mouth and a spark of desire flared in her belly. As his head lowered she was held spellbound by the hunger in his eyes. His lips brushed lightly across her mouth. Without a thought, she opened for him, and his tongue dove inside to taste and tantalize and send sparks of heat sizzling up her spine.

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Chapter Five Chelsea’s mouth was sweet and warm. Dirk’s tongue slipped inside and leisurely tasted the soft interior. He heard her moan, and she cuddled closer. Her luscious breasts touched his chest, sending heat rushing from his center outward. He stretched out on the sofa pulling her body tighter along his. His hard, aching cock pulsed against her abdomen. He put pressure on the small of her back, bringing her lower body closer. Her sweet citrus scent swirled around his head. She’d always favored the cleaner, fresh fragrances over the more flowery ones that a lot of women wore. It was one of the things he noticed about her when they first met. Of course after he’d looked up and down her slim but curvy body, he wanted her. When she wiggled her hips against his cock, Dirk knew he was in trouble. He had to either pick her up and take her to his room to make love, or stop now and make sure that’s what she wanted. His desire battled with the teachings his mother had given all her sons. You were always a gentleman. Gradually, he pulled back. “I think we’d better slow down unless you’re sure you are ready for me to make love to you.” Her warm body lay still under him. She’d looked down, and long black lashes covered those gorgeous green eyes. He knew her answer when she put distance between them. Her teeth bit the side of her lip. “Sorry. I’m not ready for a fling.” “I don’t want a fling.” She glanced up. He stared intently at her, hoping she understood what he said.

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Chelsea didn’t comment. She straightened, gathered their dishes, and headed to the kitchen. Dirk raked his hand through his hair and walked to one of the sliding glass doors. Outside, the hard rain had turned into a light mist and it was getting dark. He stepped out on the veranda and walked down to the next terrace. Damn with being a gentleman. He wanted to go back, pick her up, and carry her into his room. Then he’d taste every spot on her delectable body and plunge his cock into her sweet pussy. He could convince her. But he wouldn’t. That wasn’t his way. He’d bide his time and hope when they left she’d agree to his plan. If she said yes to his offer, he’d have much more time to convince her to his way of thinking. He took off his shirt, shorts, and underwear and dove into the pool’s cold water. He took long strokes across the pool from one end to the other. No need to count the laps. He’d stop when his raging desire for her cooled. **** Chelsea took her time in the kitchen. She rinsed the dishes and put them in the dishwasher, then scrubbed the counters and checked the freezer to see what other food they had for tomorrow’s meals. Being in Dirk’s arms, and lying against his warm body gave her a sense of being safe. But as she’d said she wasn’t ready for anything else. She glanced around the kitchen. There was nothing left to do She walked out of the kitchen to an empty living room. Dirk was gone. The sliding glass doors were partially open. She quietly stepped through the narrow space and walked to the edge of the veranda. Below Dirk was poised at the end of the pool. He was naked and the light from the just-risen moon etched his tall, muscular body in its faint glow. She wished she was a sculptor and could mould his figure from a dark piece of shiny wood. His black hair blended with the night, but the breeze blew strands around his head. His strong face

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appeared carved out of walnut. She held her breath at the beauty of his body. Heated desire coiled inside her lower abdomen. She wanted him. But he’d said he didn’t want a fling. For a man like him that meant he was looking for commitment, a family. And she didn’t know what she wanted for the rest of her life. Tomorrow she’d ask him to take her back. Staying here was too dangerous to her emotions in a completely different way than the fear that stalked her dreams. He dove in and took long, even strokes across the water. He’d be an easy man to love. But in the end could she settle on a ranch and be a good wife? It was a big risk. Not one she was ready to make. Chelsea reluctantly turned and walked to her bedroom. She didn’t want him to catch her staring. Once inside her room, she locked the door. If she woke frightened and jumped up to run to Dirk, she hoped the locked door would wake her enough to stop her. She tossed and turned on her bed. Dirk’s footsteps sounded loud in the quiet house when he came down the hall to his room. He stood outside their bedrooms for several seconds. She held her breath and released it when he opened his door and shut it. Her body ached for him. If he’d knocked, she’d have unlocked the door and opened her arms to him. She wasn’t sure if she was glad or sad he was such a nice man. Sleep eluded her as she tossed and turned and slept in short snatches through the long night. When the first faint light crept around her curtains, she showered, put on a bathing suit, and strolled down the curvy path to the beach. This morning the waves were small, and the sky clear. All the rain, lightning, and thunder had passed over. Chelsea sat, pulled her knees up, and watched the sun rise over the horizon. Seagulls dove for their breakfast as a few wispy clouds floated along under the blue sky. The color this morning reminded her of Dirk’s eyes. Darn, the man had gotten under her skin and into her

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every thought. She walked out into the clear, bluish-green water until she was waist high, and then swam around in the cove area. When the sun rose higher, she decided she’d better head back before she burned. Entering the house, she smelled the bacon frying. Dirk stuck his head out of the kitchen. “I saw you coming up and started breakfast. You have time for a quick shower.” “Good. I’ve worked up an appetite.” The cool shower refreshed her. She put on jeans and a sleeveless yellow shirt. Dirk looked around when she entered the kitchen. He handed her a glass of orange juice. “You look bright as sunshine yourself, with that yellow shirt and your red hair.” “Thanks.” She held up her glass. “This is good.” “Freshly squeezed from one of the trees right outside the kitchen door.” “A handy man to have around. I’m getting spoiled.” She walked to the back door, deliberately turning her back to him. “I’m ready to leave. I can’t hide forever.” There was silence behind her for several minutes. She heard him putting the toast down and cracking the eggs. Turning, she watched his well coordinated movements. “Aren’t you going to say anything?” “I thought I’d wait and talk after we have breakfast. If you feel ready to go, then I’ll call for the plane.” He turned back to finishing his cooking. Chelsea strolled out to the veranda and sat in a shaded chair. What he hadn’t said gave her an uneasy feeling. She wasn’t sure why, but she didn’t think she was going to like it. Dirk brought breakfast to her on the rolling trolley. She ate all the bacon, eggs, and toast, and some of the fresh fruit he’d cut. When they’d both finished, she sat back and looked at him. “There’s something you want to tell me. Say it.”

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“I called Ty this morning while you were at the beach. Your name and disappearance is still big news at home. Plus, although they got all the men who might have seen you when you were kidnapped, I’m still uneasy about you integrating back into society so quickly.” “I have to at some point.” “Yes. But I have a suggestion for the interim.” She started to speak, and he put up his hand. “Hear me out. Please.” He poured them another cup of coffee before speaking. “We can fly Drake’s jet back to his friend, Jackson’s, private landing strip. Then in disguise fly out of Dallas back home. Ty would pick us up at the airport. “People will recognize my name on the manifest.” “Not if you’re listed as my wife.” “How would we pull off that scam?” “We can be married at Brent’s home like Ty and Lily were.” Chelsea stared at him. “You’re serious.” “I’ve given it a lot of thought. It’s the best solution.” “I’m not a good bet for a forever partner. I’ve never seriously considered settling down.” Liar. I did once after a rendezvous I had with Dirk in Greece. “We’d marry with the understanding that after a year if it’s not working out, we’ll end the marriage. We’ll tell our friends and family we made our decision in haste when we both weren’t thinking clearly.” “You can say that again. You aren’t thinking straight now. What’s in it for you? During this coming year you might meet the girl of your dreams.” Part of her wanted to be that person, but she was too mixed up to know which way to go at this time. “What I want is your agreement to let me try to convince you to make our marriage permanent. This will be a real marriage for this year, at least.” She saw the earnest expression on his face, and her heart softened. “Can I have time to think about all of this?”

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“Sure. I’m going to pack a lunch and go hiking to the north end of the island. I’ll have to walk quite a distance, and some of it uphill. I’ve heard it’s beautiful. Want to go along?” “No pressure?” “None.” “All right. I can’t imagine it being anymore gorgeous than this place, but I’m interested in seeing it. I’ll help with the picnic lunch.” After packing the lunch, Chelsea slathered on suntan lotion and wore jeans and a white shirt over her bathing suit. The sun was high when they started walking. Dirk led the way. Chelsea was glad she’d brought the big hat she’d found in her bedroom. Perspiration trickled down her neck and between her breasts. “Not far now,” Dirk said. “See those trees? We’re headed up that hill. Most of the way will hopefully be shady.” They turned a little to the right and walked over a gentle slope that leveled off for a short distance. Then they began to climb. The trees were much thicker, and a cool breeze blew through the branches. Chelsea began to feel the strain on her muscles. Dirk motioned for them to stop. Barely any sunlight came through the canopy of trees. Chelsea sank down under the tallest one and took a drink out of her water bottle. “We won’t stay here long. We’re pretty close to the top.” Chelsea looked all around. She saw wild orchids hanging from several of the nearest trees. “This really is a paradise. Can you imagine owning this place? I’d never leave.” “What about the excitement of your work and the big city?” “I don’t know. Leave me here alone for a month or so and come back.” She laughed. “I’d know my answer then. I’d either be stark raving mad or singing and dancing in the nude.” “That last part sounds very interesting. Maybe I can convince you to go nude our last day here?” “I don’t think so.”

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“Too bad. Let’s walk.” Chelsea picked up her backpack and followed Dirk upward. At the top, thick trees made a ring around a small lake. A waterfall cascaded down the mountain into the water. Sunlight made the drops sparkle like colored jewels. They stepped between the trees to the outer edge and were surrounded by a view of white sand, blue water, and sky as far as the eye could see. Dirk stood behind her, so close all she had to do was take one step backward and be in his arms. His spicy cologne floated around her body. A yearning to have him touch her tempted her to give in. It would be so easy to say yes to his proposal and enjoy a year with him. But for her it would be a fling, wouldn’t it? She didn’t know the answer. She wasn’t certain of anything. “Hungry, or do you want to swim first?” “A short swim, and then eat.” She glanced at where the sun was beginning to sink in the west. “I don’t want to have to walk back in the dark.” “I have a big flashlight.” “My Boy Scout.” “No, my mother and father. They tried to teach us to always be prepared.” Chelsea found a shady spot and took off her outer clothes. She dove into the cold water before Dirk. When she surfaced, she shivered. “This is icy.” “Especially when you were already hot.” Dirk stepped in and swam to her side. “We can cuddle afterward to get warm.” Dirk chased her around in the water. He teased her and splashed water at her. It was fun. Chelsea realized she almost felt like her old self. Hungry, she made for the edge of the lake. Dirk followed her. She spread the blanket and set out the food, fruit, olives, cheese, and a loaf of French bread. Dirk grabbed the bottle of white wine he’d put in the water to chill. “This lake is fed by a natural spring, and with the shade it’s never

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very warm,” Dirk said. “There’s not a place on this island that isn’t divine. You must thank Drake and Janice for me. Or better yet, give me their address and I’ll write them.” “Or you can thank them at our wedding.” **** She lowered her head and went silent. “I’m sorry. Sometimes things slip out that I don’t mean to say.” He started to pick up their trash to take back with them. After what was only a few minutes but seemed much longer, Chelsea stood to help. When they’d finished and put their backpacks on to start the climb down, she put her hand on his arm. He looked into her sea green eyes. “I’m not ready to face everyone and all the questions I’ll get.” She hesitated. He waited, holding his breath. This would be his last chance to convince her she loved him. “This whole idea seems unfair to you. There’s no guarantee I’ll want to stay. You can end up hurt.” “I’m choosing to take the risk. If you leave, I’ll get over it. I’ll be free to find someone else. But since the last time we were together, I haven’t been able to put you completely out of my thoughts. It’s my gamble.” “All right.” “All right, what?” “I’ll marry you for a year.”

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Chapter Six Dirk took a sip of bourbon. It sent warmth running through his veins after his midnight swim. He stared out at the sea. The moon cast a silvery glow along a strip of water. He heard the waves rolling to the shore. They’d walked back to the house, showered, and changed. Then ate a dinner of grilled steaks and baked potatoes. Chelsea said she was tired and went to bed after they cleaned the kitchen. Dirk had called his cousin, Drake. The jet would be here in the morning. He didn’t tell Drake about his and Chelsea’s impending marriage. “Can I join you?” Chelsea interrupted his thoughts. She was standing in the doorway wearing the short towel robe she’d found the first day here. Her hair was a riot of red curls around her head. Long, slender legs glowed like porcelain in the moonlight. Dirk’s cock roused to attention. He got up and pulled another chair beside him. “Sure. Want a bourbon?” “Why not? Maybe it will help me sleep.” He strode into the kitchen, found a whiskey glass, and refilled his and put a generous portion in Chelsea’s. He carried the glasses out to the veranda. She was staring at the stars. Heat rushed to every spot in his body. He wanted her more than anyone he’d ever known. Hopefully his plan to marry her and seduce her would work. He’d spoken glibly today about getting over her if she left. But he was aware it wouldn’t be easy. Was he a fool to marry first and hope to find love later? Chelsea turned her head and smiled. His heart sank. It was way

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too late to worry about his heart getting broken. He handed her the glass. Then he took his seat. “Did you call Drake?” she asked. “The jet is due here around eleven. We’ll do as I said and land at Jackson’s landing strip.” “Did you mention us getting married?” “I thought I’d leave that surprise for when we got there. Do you want to call your parents in the morning before we leave?” “No. I’ll wait.” “Do you want your parents at the wedding?” “Probably not. Mom won’t come without Dad. He gave up on me when I refused to marry my local boyfriend and instead moved to the big city.” “How could he give up on his daughter?” Dirk was curious. His mom and dad had been loving, and wanted their children to find their own way. They wanted them to do what they loved. “I wasn’t a boy, for starters. It didn’t take me long to realize a boy would have been another hand to help out on the ranch. Girls can help, too, but Father saw them as homemakers. He expected my mother and I to have the meals on time, the house spotless, the cows milked, a garden growing, and to take care of the chickens. He never said thank you. “And most of all, when I was eighteen and graduated from high school, I was expected to marry and set up my own home. One less mouth to feed.” Chelsea took a large swallow of bourbon after she’d rattled off all the things she obviously hated about living on a farm. No wonder she’d never considered marriage. “Your father must have been delighted to have five boys and only one girl?” Chelsea asked. “Dad loved his girl, probably better than us boys, if that was possible. He and Mom loved us all equally. My sister was such a tomboy. She rode everywhere with dad, from the time she could sit on

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a horse until the day he died. In fact, she was with him when he had his heart attack. He died instantly. She was ten years old. It took her years to get better. I’m sure she won’t ever totally forget that day.” “How horrible for her.” “Yes, but she said later she was glad he wasn’t alone. They’d been laughing about something, and she’d just told him she loved him.” “Your family sounds nice.” “I want you to meet them. You’ll like them.” “Is that a good idea when I may not stay around?” “I stipulated it would be a real marriage in all ways while we are together.” “So you did. I hope we’re not making a serious mistake.” “I have faith and believe in us,” Dirk said. Chelsea didn’t answer. She took another swallow of bourbon, leaned her head back, and closed her eyes. Dirk studied her profile. She had high cheekbones, a turned-up nose, wisps of hair blowing around her face, and an almost square jaw that jutted out when she was making a point. Her luscious, full lips softened her jawline. Whatever the future held, they’d butt heads at times, but he loved her and believed deep down she cared about him. Suddenly she opened her eyes. “You remind me of a sleek, black panther getting ready to pounce. I could feel your eyes on me.” “I’d like to pounce, but I’ll wait until after the wedding. Good night. I’m turning in.” If I don’t leave now, I’ll do exactly as she said. His control was stretched to the limit. After the plane landed, he was going to arrange their wedding for as soon as possible. **** Chelsea had started to say, let’s go make love. She was glad she didn’t. She liked the idea of waiting until after the ceremony. Dirk was really an old-fashioned kind of guy in many ways. Hopefully he didn’t have the same viewpoint as her father, or they might not last

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even a year. A tiny flicker of hope deep inside her wanted to make this marriage a success. She finished her bourbon and went to her room. She’d pack and sleep later on the plane. There wasn’t much to throw in the backpack she’d been using. They could give it back to Drake and Janice when they met. Looking around the bedroom and bath, she didn’t see anything she’d missed. Earlier she’d washed the few things from here that she’d used. The bed looked inviting. She’d lie down for a minute, and then go out to watch the sun come up. A knock at her door woke her. Bright sunlight shone around the edges of her curtains. “The plane will be here in an hour,” Dirk called through the door. “Come outside to the veranda and have breakfast.” “I’ll dress and be there in a second.” Chelsea pulled on jeans and a green shirt. She’d wear the sneakers Janice had sent. She took a moment to gather her thoughts. Today was a step into an unknown future. Concern, fear, and excitement whirled around inside her. She grabbed her backpack, opened the door, and took a last glance at the lovely bedroom. When she closed the door and turned, she took a deep breath and stepped forward. For better or worse, in more ways than one. **** Dirk held her in his arms as she slept. He’d have to wake her soon. They’d be landing in Texas in the next thirty minutes. He was pretty certain all his cousins would be there to greet them. They’d been close-knit families with his mother and the Terrell cousins’ mother being sisters. Over the years they’d spent holidays together and sometimes traveled on vacation as a group. It had been fun, and bonded them. Chelsea stirred. She opened her eyes and smiled. “You make a

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good pillow.” “Anytime, my lady.” Dirk winked at her. “We’ll be landing soon. You might want to go back to the bedroom and freshen up in the adjoining bathroom.” “I will. I must look a mess.” Dirk studied her face with the lovely green eyes and the matching shirt. Her bright-red hair created a glow around her. He chuckled. “A lovely mess.” Chelsea was back in her seat beside him before the seat belt light came on. She clenched her hands tightly in her lap. Dirk put his hand over hers. “Are you nervous?” “I’m seldom nervous,” she said, and tilted that stubborn chin upward. “But I don’t know any of these people, and I’m not ready to be greeted by a crowd.” “Hardly a crowd. Six people at the most. There’ll be Drake and Janice, Jackson and his wife, Samantha, and Brent and Angie. They may not all be there.” “I hope they’re not.” “It’s time to start meeting people. Eventually you’ll have to go back out in society a little. I never thought of you as a coward.” She threw him an angry glance, as he’d expected. Inwardly he smiled when she pulled her shoulders back and straightened her blouse. She’d do fine. A little annoyance went a long way. The plane door was opened, and Dirk took her hand and led her to the stairs. “You first or me?” “You.” He nodded and started down the steps to the tarmac. Chelsea followed him. The people standing at the sidelines started forward, waving and hugging Dirk as soon as they got close. She deliberately hung back. An auburn-haired woman strode past the crowd around Dirk and came to her. “Welcome to Saddle Creek, Texas. I’m Janice, Drake’s wife.” “It’s nice to meet you.” Chelsea glanced past Janice and saw the

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others were headed toward her. “Don’t be frightened,” Janice said. “We don’t bite.” Chelsea stiffened. “I’m not frightened. I’ve been all over the world,” she said in a stiff voice. “I know, but you’ve also just been through a terrible ordeal that would leave anyone a little shook up.” Janice’s eyes showed concern and friendliness. Chelsea took a deep breath. “Sorry. I am a little rattled yet.” By that time the others had gathered around her. Dirk made the introductions. At the end he said, “We thought we’d stay long enough to get married. Brent and Angie, can we use your place like Ty and Lily did?” Chelsea almost laughed at the shocked expressions on their faces. They recovered fast and hugged and congratulated her and Dirk. Janice, Angie, and Samantha led her to a large SUV. They all got inside and the men followed in two trucks. “Don’t worry about a thing. We’re experts at this now. We’ll take care of everything,” Angie said. But Chelsea saw the puzzled, worried glance go between Janice and Samantha. They had questions but were too polite to ask. Maybe she should tell them the truth. Dirk had insisted they have a regular marriage. It wouldn’t be as if the family was watching every second to see how they were doing. Instead, she decided to tell a partial truth. “Dirk and I met several years ago when we were both overseas. We used to meet on our leaves in Europe. A misunderstanding separated us.” “How romantic,” Samantha said. “My husband and I were friends for years before he convinced me I loved him and had to marry him.” “You’ve been happy?” Chelsea asked. “Oh yes. We have two adorable children, and I’ve never been happier.” Chelsea saw happiness shining out of all their eyes. If only she could find the contentment and love they had. But the same problem

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faced her and Dirk. Sometime in the future she’d get an offer she couldn’t refuse to work in her field. Dirk wanted a woman to be happy being a wife and mother. It was a wide chasm. She doubted they could reach across and find a compromise. She might as well quit worrying and enjoy the present. A lot could happen in a year. **** Brent and Angie insisted they come to their place and stay in the cabin they’d first built, before the big house as Angie called it. Chelsea was never as relieved as when they got inside the small cottage and closed the door. Dirk put down their cases and came to her side. “Are you all right? You look pale.” Chelsea sat in the nearest chair. “I didn’t realize socializing would be so tiring. The dinner was good and all of them are such nice people. I feel like we’re asking them to be part of a false scenario and they don’t know it. It doesn’t seem right.” “What do you want to do? Call off the wedding? I can ask Drake to let us use his plane to get to Montana. You can still stay with me. We’ll see how things go. Meanwhile the press will soon find something else to catch their interest.” She studied his face. He didn’t try to hide the disappointment in his eyes. “I don’t want to hurt you.” “How do you know you will?” He gave her a cheeky grin. “I’m a tough cowboy, remember.” “I’d prefer to do it that way, with no promises given. If or when I marry, I want it to be a happy event with all the trimmings.” “Fair enough. I’ll go talk to Brent and Angie and call Drake.” “Thank you.” She watched him go out and peeked between the curtains, admiring his backside. His sexy body was beginning to

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arouse the hunger in her to touch him and taste him. But she knew herself. She couldn’t imagine she’d be happy on a ranch far from the excitement of the big city and the news. Not that she wanted to go back overseas, but there were other interesting jobs she might be offered. First she had to get her head on straight. A little more vacation was just what she needed. She ought to resist his overtures. But was she strong enough to push away temptation?

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Chapter Seven They flew into Montana late that night. Angie and Brent had told them good-bye at their house. Drake and Janice came to the landing strip and wished them well. They were all polite and didn’t ask questions. Apparently whatever Dirk said to them satisfied their curiosity. Dirk had been unusually quiet since she’d asked him not to marry her. “There’s my truck,” Dirk said as they walked down the plane’s steps. “Since it’s so late, I’m certain Ty and Lily have gone to bed. They don’t get much sleep with the baby waking up at night.” He took long strides to the truck and glanced inside. “Yeah, the keys are in the ignition. Here let me take your backpack.” He swung it and his into the backseat, and then helped her inside. “We’ll contact your parents and see about going there to get some of your things.” “I can make do with what I have. The nearby town has a shop. I checked it out when I stayed here briefly before.” “You don’t want to see your parents?” “Not yet.” Dirk drove a good distance from the main farmhouse, turned right onto a narrower road and stopped to open a gate. He drove through, and in the distance Chelsea saw the shape of a large country house with verandas around three sides. “This is the new home you mentioned?” “Yes. I have plenty of land, and so I built a barn for my horses, too. Chelsea found herself leaning forward. She was anxious to see more of the homestead. A few lights were lit around the exterior and

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one or two inside. As though he read her thoughts, Dirk spoke. “The lights are on a timer. I don’t like coming home to a dark house. Mom always kept the lights on for us. She still does.” “I can’t wait to see it in the daytime. The area looks lovely in the moonlight.” “Wait until you see the wildflowers blooming all across the pasture land, and all the trees surrounding the area.” “Do you have a horse I can ride?” “You haven’t forgotten how?” “Of course not.” He flashed her a smile. “I’ll check you out in the morning.” “You’re on. I’ll outrun you.” He laughed. “Not likely.” He parked on the drive at the front door, and then came around to help her out, but she didn’t wait. She’d hopped out. “Anxious?” “Tired. Maybe I can sleep all night without a nightmare.” Dirk brushed her hair off her forehead. “Maybe you can.” He grabbed their backpacks and gave her the key to open the door. She swung one half of the double doors open and stepped inside. Dirk reached over and flipped on the light, exposing a huge great room with a fireplace in the corner. The light wood walls glowed in the light. Cream-colored leather furniture was spaced around the room. A large rug in bright gold and red colors kept the room from looking too masculine. Chelsea glanced across at Dirk. “You didn’t do the decorating?” “No way. There’d be one big chair and a large television. My sister designs clothes, and she also has a good eye for decoration. She insisted I let her have a free hand. It worried me, but I took a chance. She did a good job. I’m comfortable here except it seems too big for just one man.” Chelsea ignored that comment. Dirk motioned for her to follow

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him. “Tomorrow, I’ll show you around. Tonight, I’ll show you your room.” He led her to the left and down a hall. “There are three bedrooms on this side. On the other is the master bedroom and my study. Feel free to wake me if you need anything.” He took her to the last room at the back of the house. “This is the largest, and hopefully the quietest, so I don’t wake you when I get up early. I’ve got to meet with Ty and discuss what has been happening since I left. Later, I’ll pop in and see how you are doing. Help yourself to anything in the kitchen.” “Thanks for everything, Dirk.” “No problem. Good night.” Part of her wanted to go to him and ask to sleep in his bed, close to his warm body. But he was keeping her at arm’s length since she’d called off their wedding. She glanced around. The bedroom was done in a subtle lilac with a bedspread and curtains in white with tiny purple flowers. Definitely a girl’s room. Did Dirk want children? She imagined a little boy with his sky blue eyes and shiny black hair. Chelsea shook her head. She must be tired. Heading to the adjoining bathroom, she threw off her clothes. A quick shower, and then she was going to sink into that soft mattress. She couldn’t wait. **** Dirk sat on the side of his bed. The thought of Chelsea on the other side of the house sent a rush of desire through his body. She’d disappointed him in stopping the marriage. Perhaps she was right. Still, he was going to continue with his plan to seduce her. He doubted he could ever have her permanently. He might as well enjoy their being together as long as he could make it last. Her father had pretty much ruined life on a ranch for her. Her memories stopped her from seeing how it could be between a man

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and his wife. He’d make sure she got to see Ty and Lily a lot. And he intended to show her what he wanted in a wife. Morning couldn’t come fast enough. He was ready to start on his backup plan. He slept in short naps. As soon as the sun peeked across the horizon, Dirk got out of bed. Being quiet he dressed, made a pot of coffee, and took his mug on his trip to Ty’s home. The engine of his truck may have woken her, but he doubted it. She was exhausted last night, both physically and emotionally. Dirk waved at several cowhands as he rode by. The cool, clean breeze coming in his truck window felt good. All the familiar scents of cattle, horses, and hay told him he was home. Ty must have heard him coming. He stood at the kitchen door. “Come on in and tell us all about your adventures.” Lily sat at the table drinking hot chocolate. “Where’s little Diana?” “In bed sleeping, thank goodness.” Lily smiled. “She woke twice, but Ty was sweet enough to get up with her the last time.” “She actually slept all night the night before last. We thought maybe she’d continue, but she was teasing us,” Ty said, a smile on his face. “Tell us what happened?” Lily asked. Dirk turned the chair around and sat. Briefly, he explained how they’d rescued Chelsea and the two soldiers. “Of course, none of this can be known. The military has given their account. I don’t want it questioned.” “We understand,” Ty said. “How’s your lady friend? Drake said you almost married her.” “Yeah. She got cold feet. It’s all right. While she’s here, I plan to wear her down.” He told them a little about her experiences on her family’s ranch. “Unless I can show her a better way a couple can live together out in the country, she’ll take off someday.” “And you don’t want her to?” Lily asked.

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“No.” “I’ll help. Later today I’ll take Diana over to see her. Introduce myself as her neighbor.” “Thanks, Lily.” Dirk glanced at Ty. “Guess we have business to discuss?” “Yes, but eat breakfast with us first.” **** Chelsea slept half the day away. She got up and dressed in jeans and a green plaid shirt. After brushing her teeth, washing her face, and pulling her hair back into a ponytail, she left the bedroom. At each door, she peeked inside. There were three bedrooms and two baths. The second bath adjoined the other bedrooms. In the smallest bedroom a baby crib had been set up. That was strange. Sunlight streaming in the great room windows gave a warm ambiance. She walked on around the long bar and into a large kitchen. The smell of coffee drew her to the pot. She poured a cup and went back to sit in a rocker by the fireplace. It wasn’t lit, but the two-story window brought in lots of warmth. Over the kitchen was a loft, and the windows reached that high. She’d been so sleepy she hadn’t noticed it last night. When her coffee was gone, she put the cup aside and climbed the curving staircase. The loft had windows in the back, and with the curtains pulled the room was full of light. Chelsea paced the length of the room. A waist-high railing faced the great room. Other than the curtains, this room had been left unfurnished. A small half bath and closet were at one end. Interesting. More curious, she went back downstairs and poked her head in the master bedroom. Large, mahogany furniture, including a bed, side tables, and a chest of drawers were spaced around the big room. At one end were two bookshelves and two easy chairs. The colors of cream and light blue kept the room from being too masculine. To the

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right were walk-in closets and a large bathroom done in gold and browns. At the other end of the room, a door went into a study complete with desk, file cabinets, and more bookshelves. Chelsea had just gotten back to the great room when she heard a voice coming from the kitchen area. “Hello.” A woman called out from the back door. The visitor was a beautiful blonde holding a baby. “You must be Chelsea. I’m Lily, Ty’s wife. Can I come in?” “Sure.” Chelsea opened the door for her. “That’s the baby I’ve heard about.” “Meet Diana. Would you like to hold her?” Before Chelsea could respond, Lily put the baby in her arms. “I need to go to the bathroom.” Bewildered Chelsea watched her disappear around the corner. She glanced down at the small baby wrapped in a blanket. Little Diana’s eyes were open and staring at her. They were a deep blue, and she had curly golden hair. Her tiny hand clutched the edge of her blanket. Chelsea touched the satin-soft skin. “Hello, beautiful. What wonderful skin you have.” Diana’s rosebud mouth made an O shape and a bubble came out. Chelsea couldn’t remember ever holding an infant. Her brother was older than her. She’d had no experience with little ones. Diana felt warm and cuddly against her arm and body. Leaning down, Chelsea breathed in her scent, a mixture of powder and baby. “Don’t babies smell sweet?” Lily walked up to Chelsea. Chelsea started to hand her back. “No. Enjoy her. I’ll make us some tea.” She glanced in the refrigerator. “I stocked some things in here yesterday when we heard you were coming our way. Ham, cheese, mayonnaise, and mustard. I’ll make us a sandwich.” “I should be doing that for you.” “You can next time.” Lily bustled around the kitchen. Chelsea rocked Diana in her arms, and the baby’s eyes closed as

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she went to sleep. Lily put a plate with a sandwich and chips in front of Chelsea. “I’ll be right back. Ty had a crib put in the front bedroom for her. I’ll lay her down.” So that explained the crib, sort of. Did he keep the baby for them?” Lily came right back and put her plate and two glasses of cold tea on the table. She sat and smiled at Chelsea. “What do you think of this place?” “It’s lovely, and feels like a home.” “I agree. Dirk worked with the architect. Most of the plans were his. I told him it was too big for a bachelor. He said he wouldn’t always be one, and he didn’t want to build another house. He fell in love with this part of the property.” “I haven’t gone outside yet. I didn’t wake up until noon.” “Eat. You must be hungry.” “I am.” Chelsea nodded toward the bedrooms. “Does Dirk keep Diana for you?” “Yes. Can you believe it? He volunteered to keep her if we wanted to go out occasionally. He’s a good babysitter. Diana grins big when she sees him.” “A man of many talents, from rescuing damsels in distress to comforting babies. I thought I knew him well. Guess I didn’t.” “Men are strange creatures. Ty and I had a difficult time understanding each other.” Lily grinned. “We still do at times, but we talk it out. Or Ty just grins, shakes his head, and says, ‘yes dear.’” A noise at the back screen brought both their heads around. Dirk brushed his boots on the outside doormat, then came in and took off his hat. “Hi, Lily. Where’s my darlin’?” “You never talk to me first. I’ve been replaced by Diana.” She winked at Chelsea. “Not at all.” He leaned down and kissed her cheek. “I suppose

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she’s in the crib.” “Yes and don’t wake her until we finish eating. Want a sandwich?” “Don’t get up. I’ll fix it. I noticed you’d stocked my pantry and fridge. Thanks.” Chelsea watched Dirk pull out the ingredients and make himself a thick sandwich. He poured chips on his plate and got a cup of coffee. His movements were concise. It was obvious he wasn’t a stranger to the kitchen. He sat at the table between them. After taking one bite, they heard Diana cry out. He stood before either woman could. “I’ll get her. It’s been a while since I’ve seen her. Hopefully she hasn’t forgotten me.” Taking long strides, he headed toward the baby’s bedroom. “He’ll make a wonderful father. He’s just like Ty in that respect.” Dirk came back with the baby in his arms. She was cooing and throwing her little arms and hands around. “She knew me right away.” Lily laughed. “She’s female and susceptible to strong, handsome cowboys.” Chelsea watched the friendly, teasing way they treated each other. The way she’d wished she and her brother could be, but he was too much like Dad and followed their father’s beliefs about women. Might she be different if she’d been raised in the warmth and love Diana was going to grow up in? Perhaps, or she might have still been born with the wanderlust. After eating, Lily gathered Diana and her baby bag and left. She and Dirk stood in the doorway waving until they were out of sight. “I like her. She’s a genuine person. I’m surprised, with all she’d gone through. I didn’t know what to expect since she’d been raised by a man who was so evil.” “Apparently the one thing he really loved was her. But she’s been hurt. Her world as she knew it blew up.”

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“She makes me feel like a coward.” “Not at all. You also had a sudden shock and you did what had to be done. But it wasn’t easy. I’d worry if you could shrug off killing a man. Even if he did have it coming. It shows your humanity that you’ve struggled with your decision. To change the conversation to a lighter topic, I thought you might like to go for a ride?” “Yes, but I can’t ride far, because I haven’t been on a horse in a few years. I don’t want to be too sore.” “We’ll stay around this area today. Tomorrow, I’ll drive you around the ranch.” “Let me get my boots.” “I have an extra hat my sister leaves here for when she visits. I’ll get it.” Chelsea started to hurry out of the kitchen. His words stopped her. “I’m glad you’re here.” She saw his desire for her in his darkened blue eyes, and the set of his jaw. Heat spread across her body, and for a second she started to walk back to him. Tension held them still. A dog’s bark broke the spell. Dirk shrugged, then grinned. “Go get on those boots.” “I will.” Chelsea hurried out of the room. Her emotions and thoughts were a jumble of contradictions. But a different type of excitement began to come alive in her. This brief break from her usual life might be more than she expected.

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Chapter Eight The horse Dirk had saddled for her was a lovely brown mare with a white star on her nose. He helped her into the saddle, and they rode slowly down a nearby path. Chelsea studied Dirk’s land. Wide areas of prairie with wildflowers blooming stretched far out in front of them. About a mile from the house they came to where a stream ran swiftly over rocks and curved in several spots. Tall trees grew near the edge of the water, making the area shady and cooler. “We’d better turn back for today,” Dirk said. “Another time I’ll show you a spot where the river forms a natural swimming pool. We’ll bring our suits and swim.” “Great. I like to swim. But I do believe I’ve gone far enough this time.” They rode back in companionable silence until just before they got to the house. Dirk pulled his horse up and turned to face her. “Do you want to visit your parents this weekend? I checked the map. It’ll take us about four hours to get there, if we do it all in one day. It would be a long and tiring trip. So I’ll take off early tomorrow. We can drive almost all the way and stop for the night. Then we won’t have to ride far the next day before we get there.” “If it wasn’t for Mom, I’d say no. But I heard the worry and concern in her voice when we talked on the phone. She needs to see that I am all right.” “Then we’ll plan to go.” They started onward toward the house. When they got there, they stopped at the front door. Chelsea got off, and Dirk took hold of her

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reins. “See you later this evening,” she said. “Don’t worry about dinner. I’ll cook,” Dirk said, waved, and headed to the barn. “Humph, he doesn’t believe I can cook. I’ll show him,” she mumbled to herself as she checked the refrigerator and cupboards. First she’d change, and then get busy. Dirk was in for a surprise. Back in the kitchen she found a defrosted chicken in the refrigerator. She turned on the oven. Next she checked for spices, then potatoes. The cupboard held all the ingredients for green bean casserole. After she had the chicken prepared and ready, she put it in the oven to bake. Next she mixed the casserole and placed the dish into the fridge until time to cook it. Now what was here that she could make for a dessert? Nothing. She’d call Lily and borrow a few things. Chelsea surprised herself with how much she enjoyed fixing the meal and mixing and baking the chocolate cake. Lily loaned her what she needed and told her Dirk loved anything chocolate. Glancing at the clock, she realized he’d be home soon. She’d set the table with dishes, silverware, and two candles. Her last item to take care of was taking a quick shower and dressing. She’d been waiting for the perfect time to wear her sundress and sandals. Tonight seemed right. After her shower she put on the bluegreen dress with its heart-shaped top and full skirt. The light-blue sandals matched well. A spritz of perfume on her neck and shoulders, a comb through her hair, and she was ready. Glancing in the mirror, she saw her hair was getting longer. Maybe she’d let it grow. The ding on the oven had her hurrying into the kitchen. As she pulled the green bean casserole out, she saw Dirk drive up. Her heart pounded, and she felt her face flush as he came to the door. “Hi, I”—Dirk stopped and looked around the kitchen—“It smells

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good in here.” “I thought I’d surprise you. Dinner’s almost ready. I just have to put it on the table.” Dirk glanced at the dining room right off the kitchen. Candles were lit and soft music played in the background. “This is great. Let me wash my face and hands. There isn’t time to shower. You’ll have to take me as I am. I’m not letting that wonderful dinner get cold.” He stepped closer to her and sniffed her neck. “You are beautiful and smell good.” Laughing, she pushed him back. “Go. I want to eat.” He hurried out toward his room. Her heart swelled with warmth. He liked it. He’d been appreciative. In a glow of happiness she put all the dishes on the table and poured their iced tea. When Dirk came back, he held her chair for her. Then instead of sitting across the table, he moved his dishes and sat beside her. “This is really wonderful and smells delicious.” She served them, and as they ate, he told her about his day around the ranch. He added several funny stories and had her laughing. Candlelight made his black hair glow and etched his cheekbones in the light. Dirk was a handsome man. A man with many facets to him. He could rescue her from the middle of a war zone and yet be a gentle man who loved the land, the animals, and most of all his family. “I’ve bored you with my stories,” Dirk said, breaking into her thoughts. “I was thinking about the many contradictions of you.” “Do you mind me asking what you mean?” “If I can explain, I will. Most of the men I meet are rough and tough and focused in one direction. It may be as a warrior, or a photographer or reporter. You don’t think of them as having a gentle side. I realize now they must. Circumstances make a person behave according to the demands at that time. It’s not necessarily their real self.”

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“That’s true. And we’re all a mixture of our environment and how we were raised.” “My dad and brother never had but one way, theirs. As an adult I expected the men I met to be the same. We lived isolated. They were my examples. I couldn’t wait to leave home and go far away. I hated the ranch and ranch life. “My surprise was how much I enjoyed fixing dinner. I did it because I wanted to. No one had ordered me.” Dirk took her hand in his. “You never have to do anything you don’t want to or don’t feel like here, ever.” Chelsea blinked the tears away. “Let’s talk about something happy and enjoy our meal.” “I’m all for that. This is too good to waste.” **** “You’ve been holding out on me. I never dreamed you could cook this well.” “Don’t get spoiled. I’m not doing this every day.” “How about we take turns?” “I’ll consider it. I wondered if you’d let me ride along with you some days. I’d like to see how a ranch works. Dad said the ranch was men’s work. He made me stay in the house, except for chores or an occasional horse ride.” “Shame. I’m not only going to show you, I’ll teach you some of the jobs so you can help if you’d like.” Her eyes glowed like a little girl who’d received a present. He realized these were important issues they’d never shared with each other. When they’d had a few days off overseas, they got together and the time was filled with fun and hot sex. He’d grown to love her, but no wonder she’d refused his proposal to be a cowboy’s wife. Her impression had been distorted by her parents’ behavior. And he’d

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better not forget she had loved her job. But did she after what happened? He wanted her for his wife, and he’d do whatever it took to get her to say yes. Seducing her might work. It would certainly be fun trying. Chelsea started cleaning the table. “You go in the great room and start a fire. It’s cool tonight. I’ll bring coffee and dessert.” “Dessert, too?” He leaned forward and kissed her. “What a treat. I’ll have a fire going when you come in.” **** Chelsea found herself humming as she rinsed the dishes and put them in the dishwasher. There was chicken left, and some of the casserole. Dirk had eaten all the mashed potatoes. A warm glow had centered in her chest. She couldn’t wait to see his expression when she carried in the cake. First, she took in their coffee cups. She instructed him to close his eyes, and she carried in two plates with cake slices on them. “Open your eyes,” she said. His plate was right in front of him. “I smelled the chocolate. I love chocolate cake. How did you know?” “Lily. I had to borrow the mixings from her.” “I have to thank her.” He dove into his cake and in minutes had it eaten. He strode into the kitchen for seconds. When he had finished, he sat back. “Your chocolate cake was delicious. If I ate like this every night, I’d get fat.” “I doubt it. Not with all the work you all do around here. But I might.” Dirk got up and pulled her out of her chair. “Join me.” He sat and put her on his lap. “Relax. We won’t do anything you don’t want.” The temptation was too great. Chelsea let herself relax against his hard body. His strong arms wrapped around her, and his chin rested

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on the top of her head. The fire crackled. Soft music played faintly in the background. His hand smoothed her hair down. “Have you ever worn it long?” he asked. “When I was little.” “It’d be a good disguise. I’d expect most people wouldn’t recognize you.” “Just tonight I was thinking about letting it grow. That’s a good idea.” “How do you like the ranch and the house so far?” “Your home is lovely. I snooped around to see the whole layout today.” Dirk laughed. “Snoop all you want.” “I wondered why you hadn’t finished furnishing the loft.” “I’m not sure. I guess because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to use it for. Do you have any ideas?” “Well, the front windows and the windows in the loft give it a lot of light. If I had my computer I’d do some writing there.” “There’s nothing to sit on.” “No problem. Remember I’ve written reports in all kinds of places. The loft would be like a palace.” “Do whatever you want. I give you free rein of the house.” “It’s a good thing I’m not a typical woman or you might come home some night and find the whole inside repainted with new furniture.” “Believe me, I know that’s a dangerous statement. My sister would do just that. She changes her rooms at home every six months or so.” Suddenly, Chelsea realized how comfortable she felt on his lap. The warmth of his body encouraged her to cuddle. Not sure if she was ready to step over the line and have them become lovers again, she pulled back and got up. “I’m tired. I’ll see you tomorrow.” She started to gather their cake

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plates, but Dirk stopped her. “I’ll take care of them. It’s the least I can do after you cooked.” Her body was yelling stay, stay, as she walked out of the room. But he wanted forever, and she wasn’t a forever girl. **** Dirk watched her walk away. She wasn’t going to make it easy for him, but he didn’t intend to give up. He was glad they were going to see her parents. Their interaction would tell him a lot about her. The more he knew, the better chance he had of seducing her to his way of thinking. He wanted a wife, but not just anyone. He wanted Chelsea. Patience was one of his strong suits, but it did have a limit. His body ached to hold her, to touch her, to kiss every spot on her luscious body. His cock seemed to stay perpetually hard, and he was sick of cold showers. He’d wait, but if she didn’t give him an opening soon, he’d make one.

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Chapter Nine They’d stopped for the night, and Chelsea had asked for two rooms. Dirk had shrugged his shoulders and paid for them. This morning, well-rested, he drove the last few miles in an hour and a half. Chelsea sat beside him looking out the window. She hadn’t spoken since they’d started on the last leg of their journey. He glanced at her and saw she’d leaned forward staring toward the wood frame house coming closer every second. Her body had stiffened, and she clenched her hands. He hoped bringing her here had been a good idea. “I grew up in that house, and now it belongs to my brother. I guess he’ll marry and his family will live there. Mom and Dad moved to a smaller house that they built several acres over. Mom said Dad couldn’t handle the day-to-day work anymore. But, I bet Mom’s keeping the place looking nice for Bill. A woman, wearing a blue polka dot dress, came out on the porch. She stared at the car as they pulled into the curved driveway. “Momma.” As soon as the car stopped, Chelsea was out and running into her mother’s arms. The screen door opened, and a tall, lean, brown-haired man stepped out. He stood looking at the two women. His face was weather-beaten from years of working outdoors, and showed no expression. Chelsea stepped around her mother and stood in front of her father. The two stared at each other, neither willing to move forward. Dirk got out of the car and walked quickly to Chelsea’s side. “Hello. I’m Dirk Brodie. You must be Chelsea’s dad.” The man’s attention turned to him. “Who the hell are you?” “Dad, he’s one of the men who rescued me. He and his cousin

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own the TRC ranch.” “Thank you so much, Mr. Brodie, for helping to save our daughter.” Chelsea’s mother had touched his arm. She smiled at him, and he saw a reflection of her daughter. “There was a whole team, but for safety’s sake we don’t want to be identified.” “I understand. We won’t mention your name in that regard,” she promised him. “Please come in the house. Our son is in the barn. He’ll be here soon.” She put her arm around Chelsea. Dirk and her father followed them inside. It was a homey living room. It didn’t look as though many changes had been made over the years. But the furniture shone from being polished, and the air was scented with a flowery potpourri. “Sit. I have coffee and cake made. Chelsea, do you want to help me serve?” Chelsea got up to go with her mother into the kitchen. “If she hasn’t forgotten how to do any housework,” her father mumbled. Chelsea heard him. She stopped and her shoulders stiffened. Dirk thought she was going to turn and say something to her father. Instead, she went on into the kitchen. “You don’t approve of your daughter’s career choice?” Mr. Pearce swung his gaze around to Dirk. “It’s stupid and dangerous. A woman’s place is in the home, taking care of the house and having children.” He snapped the words out. “And keeping the garden, taking care of the hens, and not expecting a thank you,” Dirk added. Her father glared at him. “Yes, and all those things. The man is breaking his back out on the farm trying to support a family. It’s the least the wife should do.” “You must know your attitude has made her determined not to marry.” “She was always rebellious. I gave her a good home. A nice man wanted to marry her. She turned him down. She was foolish. What

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has she got now?” The man’s attitude pushed Dirk’s control to the limit. He’d like to punch him, but he’d been well taught by his mother. You didn’t hit older men, regardless. “For one, your daughter is well respected as a war correspondent. She’s gone far in her field.” “No decent man will ever want her. No telling what all she’s done out there in that desert with all those men.” “You sanctimonious—” he stopped before he said the word “bastard.” Dirk stood, took a deep breath, and walked out the door. No wonder Chelsea didn’t trust any man. He strode off to the right. He needed to walk and think and cool down. In the distance, he saw a barn and a tall, dark, redheaded man striding toward him. In looks, except for the hair color, he was a replica of his father. Dirk stopped and waited for him. The man put out his hand. “I’m Bill, Chelsea’s brother.” Dirk introduced himself. “I noticed you came out of the house kind of fast.” He chuckled. “I guess my Dad was on his best behavior.” “Best?” Dirk frowned at him. “I was being facetious. My father is a difficult man at the best of times.” “Your sister indicated you were a lot like him.” “I was. But I’m trying to change. I’ve met someone I care about, and she’s not about to take anything from anyone.” He grinned. “She won’t marry me until she’s sure I’m serious about being different than my father.” “Good for you. I hope you succeed.” They walked on together toward the house. “Are you interested in my sister?” “I love her. But she’s another difficult woman. She has a hard time with trust. Don’t worry, though. I intend to win.” “I think I might like you for a brother-in-law.”

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“Don’t tell your sister or she’ll run for the hills.” They were laughing when they came in the door. Dirk saw the surprise on Chelsea’s face, and the bigger surprise when her brother hugged her. **** Chelsea ate her cake and observed the interaction between her family and Dirk. Her father didn’t like him. That was a plus in her mind. She’d be worried if he did. Her brother had surprised her with the hug, and the news about his having found an independent woman he wanted to marry. Her father had huffed and said a few snide words. Bill had ignored him and gone on talking. As usual her mother hung back, but gave Chelsea loving smiles. It was worth the trip to see her and to see the changes in Bill. Would they last? She hoped so for his sake. “Honey, let’s go for a walk. The exercise will be good for you before you have to start your long drive back,” her mother said, and stood, reaching out to take her hand. “Sure, Mom, if there’s time.” She glanced at Dirk. “Enjoy yourself. There’s no rush,” Dirk said. “Dirk and I will walk out to the barn,” Bill said. “I’m thinking of doing artificial insemination with some of my cows. I wondered if you had any advice. Dad, you want to join us?” “No. I’m going to the new house. I’ll leave all that foolishness to you two. You can bring your mother home later.” He glanced at his daughter. “I hope you’ve come to your senses about that crazy job.” He didn’t speak to Dirk, but went out and got in an old truck and drove away. “Go on your walk.” He gave her an encouraging smile. “Bill, I’ve been reading up on that subject. We’re thinking of doing the same thing on a small scale to start. Ty’s father hadn’t been particularly keen on the idea, either. I’d like to see your cattle and hear your ideas.”

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Chelsea and her mother walked in a different direction than the barn. The fields were ablaze with color. A breeze blew in their face. “How are you doing, Mom?” “I’m fine since the surgery. And with the smaller house I don’t have so much to do. Your dad has a garden. He has to do something or go crazy, but his arthritis has slowed him down.” “If I settled down somewhere, would you come and live with me? I’d see you had an easier, more pleasant life.” Her mother stopped and patted her cheek. “You’re a sweet girl. I know your father is hard to understand. He’s had a difficult life eking out a living on this farm. I’m glad to see Bill is going to modernize the place. It’ll be more profitable and not beat him down as it has your father.” She started walking again, looking straight ahead. “I’m used to your father, and he wouldn’t do well without me. I expect I wouldn’t do well without him. We’ve been together too long to go our separate ways.” Shocked at her words, Chelsea said, “You love him?” “Of course. What you saw as hard work was for me doing something for the man I loved. I tried to tell him to be gentler with you two, but he wanted you to be strong and successful in life.” “Yeah, his idea of successful was for me to marry and have children.” “He’s old-fashioned in his ways. His thought was you’d be taken care of and safe. When you were captured, he paced the floors night and day until he heard you’d been rescued.” “He was probably cursing my job the whole time.” Her mother laughed. “He was. He had to blame something or someone. He was afraid.” “I’m sorry, Mom. I can’t see him the way you do. If you ever change your mind, let me know.” “We’d better go back. It’s getting late and you have a far way to go. I hope you come back.” “I will, Momma. As long as you’re here.”

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**** The drive home was quiet. Neither she nor Dirk had much to say, and yet the silence was filled with unsaid words. Chelsea was glad to see Dirk’s home. He let her off at the front door. “I’ll see you in the morning,” he said before driving the car to the garage. Chelsea took a warm shower hoping it would help her sleep. Her mind was full of conflicting thoughts. She tossed and turned on the bed until finally she sank into darkness. A large figure came toward her. “You’re mine now. I may let my men share you if I get bored.” His dark eyes gleamed with malice. She took the knife she’d found and plunged it into his stomach. Blood gushed on her hands. Startled, she jumped back and grabbed the lantern, but he staggered forward and put his hands around her throat. “You are a stupid woman. You left home. You deserve to die.” She struggled to breathe. His grip loosened. She took a deep breath and screamed. **** Across the width of the house, her scream woke Dirk. He was on his feet and running across the great room to her when she flew out of the hall and into his arms. She wrapped her arms and legs around him. He staggered at her sudden weight, but held on. “It’s all right, Chelsea. I’m here. No one will hurt you. Not as long as I’m nearby.” He walked with her into his bedroom. She sobbed on his shoulder. Gently, he laid her on his bed, but she wouldn’t release him. He climbed in and held her tight. Gradually the sobs slowed and stopped. He wiped the tears from her face, and kissed her cheeks and chin. “I’m here, love. Everything is fine. You had a bad dream.”

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“I hadn’t had one for quite a while. I thought they’d stopped, but this one was different. He grabbed me and choked me until I couldn’t breathe.” Her body shuddered against him. Dirk rubbed her back and breathed in her sweet fragrance. Her curls were wet with perspiration. He lay naked against her. She hadn’t noticed. His dick was hard and pulsing. He wanted to slide inside her pussy and love her, fill her with his love, and take away the hurtful memories from her childhood and the desert. He didn’t doubt they were all mixed up in her mind tonight. Her body stiffened slightly. Ah, she’d noticed his lack of attire. “Shall I carry you back to your room?” His eyes stared into the wet sheen of her green eyes. “No. I don’t want to be alone.” Dirk held her head between his hands. “Chelsea, I want you. I can’t lie here all night and not make love to you. I don’t want to take advantage of the situation.” “I know. I want you, too. But I don’t know if I’ll ever be the way you’d like me to be.” “I understand why you distrust men. I’ll show you, you can trust me. We can have a different kind of life than your mother and father.” “I can’t promise anything.” “All right. I won’t either. We’ll do it your way. No strings attached. Agreed?” “Agreed.” He guided her to the bathroom, and turned on the warm water in the shower. Then he pulled her gown off. He kissed the top of her head and breathed in her sweet scent. “You need to relax. We’ll start here.” He lifted her and stepped in. The water cascaded over them. Dirk let her body slide down along his. He kissed her eyelids, her cheeks, and then her full, rosy lips. She opened her mouth, and his tongue invaded the soft interior. Their tongues moved around each other, tempting, touching, caressing. Her

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lush breasts rubbed across his chest. He wanted to devour her. Just a little more patience. If I rush her, it may make her pull back. And I’ve never wanted anyone like I do her. His hands massaged her back and cupped her buttocks holding her hard against his cock. “Feel how much I need you? How much I want to bury myself in your hot pussy? Stay here. I’ll be right back.” He stepped out of the shower and grabbed a condom package from a drawer. He tore it open and put it on his rigid cock. She watched him, making him harder. When he got back in the shower, he said, “Put your arms and legs around me again.” Chelsea did as he said. She kissed his mouth as he held her close. Taking two steps, he put her back against the tiled wall. She reached between them and put her hand on his cock. “Remember how good it always was between us? I want you inside me.” “The lady’s wish is my command.” He positioned the head of his cock at her pussy opening and slid into her warmth. She wiggled and took him in further. Dirk kissed her deeply as his cock pulsed inside her tight pussy walls. He didn’t want to move at first. Just hold her and savor the feel of her, the scent of her, and the taste of her sweet mouth. She pushed down, exciting him more, and his cock demanded his attention. Slowly, he moved in and out while he watched her face. She met his strokes and tightened her inner walls around him. Chelsea put her mouth by his ear. She bit his earlobe, sending a jolt of desire straight downward. “Take me hard. I’m not fragile.” He bit her lip then ran his tongue over the spot. “I’ve been starved for you. If I’d had to take another cold shower I would have exploded with frustration. She chuckled, then rubbed her peaked nipples against him, spiking his hunger. He pushed harder and faster as heat flowed through his body and the ache in his balls urged him on. He was going to explode.

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He wanted to. Her moans, and then her breath quickening, brought him to the edge. As pleasure zapped him, her scream of his name echoed around them and her body shivered in his arms. She clenched and unclenched her pussy walls around his supersensitive cock. It was all he could do to still stand. She bent her head and kissed his shoulder. “It’s still as good as ever between us.” “Maybe even better.” He kissed the top of her head. “Perhaps.” Dirk smiled at her admission. “We’re not through yet. I have a mighty hunger for you.” He got out of the shower with her. She put her feet down. “Let me dry you.” He patted her skin dry, and his lips followed the path of the towel. Her skin was petal-soft and sweet as honey. Dirk ran the edge of his teeth across her pebbled nipples, and then sucked on each one. Her fingers slid through his hair, and her body bowed toward him. His dick got harder. Dirk swept her up in his arms and carried her to bed. She sank into the mattress and he followed her down. Having the length of her body underneath him sent heat surging out from his center to every cell. She wrapped her arms and legs around him. Even though he’d just had her, his lustful hunger hadn’t abated one bit. It had been so long. Every little wiggle she made sent sizzles of electricity rushing along his nerves. She’d managed to move down, and her lips brushed along his neck and then his chest. Little puffs of breath brushed across his nipples. He loosened his hold and let her continue on her downward slide. When her fingers caressed the top of his cock, his breath caught. Then her tongue slid around and over the head of his dick. His groan had her looking at him. “Shall I stop?” she whispered. “Hell no.” “Good, because I’m just getting started.”

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Her hand wrapped around his cock and moved up and down as she continued to run her lips across the top. An exquisite dart of pleasure shot up his body. It was almost painful in its intensity. His heartbeat pounded in his chest. He tried to hold back as long as he could, but when she sucked on him, he knew he was too close. “Wait.” When she raised her head, he flipped her under him. He grabbed a condom from the bedside table drawer and almost tore it putting it on. Then he plunged into her hot pussy. For a second he went still, absorbing the luscious gratification of being held tight between her pussy walls. Chelsea spread her legs wider and pulled his buttocks toward her, urging him to go deeper. He pushed forward and then back, beginning the rhythm of making love. She raised her hips, drawing him in as far as he could go. He pulled her legs over his shoulders. She moaned and thrashed her head as he filled her pussy with his length and girth. Damn, she felt so good. They’d always matched perfectly in bed. At least as far as he was concerned. Pressure built inside him. As his cock plunged against her womb, they both yelled out their release. Dirk rolled to lie beside her. He took deep breaths, trying to fill his lungs. She looked at him with a glazed expression. “Wow, that was even better than I remembered.” “I suppose that’s a compliment.” “Well, it was great before, but this was more salacious.” He rolled on his side to face her. His hand brushed across her fiery curls. “I didn’t know you even knew such a word.” “Please this isn’t the dark ages. I’m a reporter. I know lots of words.” “I can’t wait to hear them all.” “It’ll have to wait for another day.” She snuggled into his arms. “I’m tired.” “Damn, I must not have been as good as I thought.”

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“There’s always room for improvement. We’ll work on it more tomorrow.” Dirk chuckled and pulled her close. She’d turned on her side away from him. Her sweet ass moved around and snuggled against his abdomen. His dick roused its head. Down, boy, that’s it for the night. But at least he had the opportunity to hold her close and smell the sweetness of her hair and soft body. He’d lied when he said no promises. His promise to himself was to convince her to marry him. She was definitely the woman for him. The hard part was making her admit it.

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Chapter Ten When Chelsea woke, Dirk was gone. She sat up and stretched. The usual morning tension had disappeared. On the bedside table, she saw his note. Gone to work in the south area of the ranch. If interested, bring us a picnic lunch around one. Just head south. You’ll eventually see us. It’s not too far. Wish I was there to bury myself in your hot, wet pussy and kiss your lush breasts. I’m getting hard thinking about you. Time for another cold shower. Hmm, ten o’clock. Time to dress and see if they had the ingredients to make a picnic lunch. She wandered into the kitchen after showering and dressing in her jeans, a yellow T-shirt, and her boots. She put on the kettle for tea then checked the pantry. There were bread and chips. In the fridge were condiments, cheese, and ham slices. A bowl of apples sat on the counter. As she made the sandwiches, she drank her tea and ate a piece of toast. She put the sandwiches in the refrigerator and washed the two apples. Most of the lunch was ready. She found herself wandering around the house. What was she going to do to keep busy while she was here? She glanced at the loft. It would make a perfect place to sit and write. She’d never admitted to anyone that she had an urge to write a novel based on her experience from being overseas. There hadn’t been any time to pursue her dream. Until now. Or she could just go back into the fray, and accept the questions

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she’d inevitably get, then continue with the job she knew. But she didn’t want to. Not yet. Dirk had given her a chance to take her time before making any decisions. For some reason her usual restlessness hadn’t urged her to move on. She’d stay and see where it led. The phone rang. “Hi, this is Chelsea.” “Lily here. I’ve taken a coffee cake out of the oven and thought what fun it would be to have you join me for coffee and cake. How about it?” Chelsea glanced at her watch. “I have some time. I’m taking Dirk’s lunch to him at one.” “That sounds like fun. Ty and I do that occasionally. But you’ll join me first?” “Let me pack the lunch in the cooler and I’ll head your way.” Chelsea went to the side kitchen door and knocked. The smell of cookies baking wafted out the screen. “Welcome.” Lily unlocked the door and held it open. “You’re just in time. Diana has woken from her nap. She’ll have milk while we have the coffee and cake.” “Won’t she cry seeing us eat?” “No. She’s had her bottle. Her cup has a little more milk in it. She’ll probably spill most of that.” Lily kissed the top of Diana’s head. Diana waved her hands around and smiled at Chelsea. “She’s hoping to entice you to pick her up.” “Can I after we eat?” “Sure. She loves attention, but she’s not spoiled. She’s a mellow baby. Mrs. Terrell said Ty was that way. It’s hard to believe the way he used to be, but he is much mellower since our wedding.” “Were you used to living in the country before you married Ty?” Lily laughed. “I grew up in Philly. The first ranch I ever lived on was this one. I love the wide, open spaces, the quiet, and being surrounded by nature. It surprised me how much I took to the differences in lifestyle. How about you?”

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“My home is about four hours from here. We lived on a smaller farm. I grew to hate the work, and the monotony. My father was not an easy man to live with. He had high expectations. There wasn’t time to enjoy the quiet, wide-open spaces or nature.” Lily had started to pick up her cup. She studied Chelsea. “That’s why you went as far away as you could get?” “I suppose, and the work fit my personality. I tend to be restless.” “Maybe being here will change your mind.” “There’s little chance. I’ll inevitably get antsy. But I’ll miss Dirk when I leave.” “He’s a wonderful man, kind and polite. He’s there when he’s needed. Some lucky girl will marry him one day. He’s said he is ready to settle down and have kids.” Chelsea’s coffee cake stuck in her throat. She took a quick drink of coffee to send it on down. Intuitively, she’d turned to look at Diana. Her two little, fat hands held the baby cup by the side handles. She was banging it on the high chair feeding tray. Milk splashed out of the cup spout, and she laughed. “I never saw myself with babies or small children or as a wife. To me it looked like too much unappreciated work, and babies are noisy.” “That they are. But her giggles, and snorts, even her crying tells me my baby is near. I love her. Ty is very appreciative about all I do. He helps with Diana at night, and at least once a week he cooks dinner. We have a date night where we dress up and go to town. It’s romantic.” “Who cares for Diana?” “One of our cowboy’s wives has a nine-month-old baby. We occasionally exchange a night with each other. And as I mentioned before, Dirk will help if needed. That way Ty and I get to go out for a special night. When Ty’s mom is here during the summer and fall, we could go out every night if we wanted. She and Mr. Terrell love their grandchildren.”

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“You make it sound idyllic.” “It can be if you’re in love. You still have to like ranching some. Here, hold Diana while I clean her chair and tray.” Without waiting for a response, Lily placed the baby in Chelsea’s arms. Diana gave her a toothless smile and took hold of her nose. Lily bent over in laughter. “If you could see your face.” She wiped her eyes and went to get a dish cloth.” “There are my two favorite girls.” Ty walked in the kitchen with Dirk behind him. Dirk raised his eyebrows when he saw Diana in Chelsea’s arms. “And there are my two favorite girls,” he said. Ty kissed Lily and patted her butt. “Watch it, fella. We have company.” “They aren’t company. They’re family.” He gave her one more pat before turning to greet his daughter. As soon as Diana saw him her little arms went up.” “She’s such a girl,” Chelsea said. “Here she is already deserting me for two handsome cowboys.” “What can we say, darlin’,” Dirk teased. “All the women want a cowboy.” “Right. I should puncture that balloon head of yours. It’s getting too big. And I thought I was bringing lunch to you?” “I called the house and didn’t get an answer. I took a chance you’d come to visit Lily. We decided to break earlier. We’ll still go on our picnic.” “We’d better. The cooler is packed.” Dirk surprised her by leaning down to kiss her. “You taste like Lily’s cinnamon coffee cake. Can I have some and coffee, Lily?” “Sure. Both of you sit down. I’ll get it for you.” “No, you won’t.” Ty handed Diana to Dirk. “You sit. I can tell you’ve been cooking all day. And your bell just rang for whatever you have in the oven.” He grabbed a pot holder and pulled out a sheet of chocolate cookies. Ty glanced at her and Lily’s face blushed red.

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“Does all this baking of sweets indicate something I should know?” “I’m not sure. Get your coffee and cake, and Dirk’s.” Ty winked at her before turning to his task. “We’ll talk later.” Chelsea was mesmerized by the way Ty and Lily treated each other. It was obvious they were much in love and respected and cared for one another. Ty had no problem jumping in to help his wife, as Lily had said earlier. It was a partnership. Not one man commanding the rest of the family. Dirk was playing with Diana, and the baby giggled in glee. The whole scenario ran in front of her like a movie of what life could be like instead of what she’d seen all her years growing up. But was it too good to be true? The ultimate question was, would it last? **** After his cake and coffee, Dirk suggested they leave. Ty was going back out to work with the men. “I’ll leave my horse here, Ty. Chelsea can bring me back after our picnic. I’ll ride south and meet up with you and the guys.” “No rush. Enjoy your picnic. I’m taking Lily on one next week. Maybe Chelsea would keep Diana for us for the few hours we’re gone?” “You know I haven’t the faintest idea of what to do with a baby.” “Looked like you were doing all right when I walked in. It isn’t difficult, feed her, change her, and put her down for a nap. See you two.” He rode off before she could find another reason why they shouldn’t leave their baby with her. “You have to make him understand. I’m not a baby person,” she said to Dirk. “I don’t suppose most women are until they have one of their own. This will give you practice.” Chelsea decided nothing she said was going to change their minds. She’d handle it. After all, she’d been in the war zone. How

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much trouble could one little baby be? They’d ridden quite far when Dirk took a right onto a rutted dirt road. The SUV bounced from one bumpy spot to the next. “Where in the world are we going?” “To one of my favorite spots on the ranch.” Dirk slowed as they approached several large rocks, taller than the nearest tree, and sitting at the bottom of a mountain. He parked. “This is where we get out and walk.” “Up the mountain?” “No, around the side of those rocks.” Dirk grabbed the cooler and handed her a blanket. “Let’s get going.” He led the way. They circled two rocks and went between the second and third. Chelsea followed him through the narrow opening. “I’m not sure how you got that cooler—” She stopped and stared at the setting in front of her. Nestled between the rocks was a pool of clear water. Bushes and flowers bloomed around the edges. One spot had a sandy opening as though waiting for a person to walk into the pond. The blue sky and white wispy clouds overhead added to the beauty of the area. Sunlight sparkled off silver streaks embedded in the rock’s surface. “A fantasy world,” Chelsea mumbled. “Yes. And all ours for this moment. Shall we swim before we eat?” “You didn’t tell me to bring my swimsuit.” “Who needs one? No one can see us. There’s not a rider, a house, or a plane in sight. Be wild and wicked.” He grinned at her, and started to remove his boots and the rest of his clothes. She enjoyed watching him. His tanned skin shone in the sunlight. Light sparked off his midnight black hair. He had blue eyes that rivaled the sky. He was all strong muscles, wide chest, and flat sixpack, and with the face of a dark angel. Her heart fluttered at the thought of him touching her, making love to her. Desire made her pussy clench.

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“Are you going to stare at me or join me?” “It’s pretty good just staring.” “No fair. If you aren’t undressed in five minutes, I’ll dunk you in with your clothes on.” “You would, too.” She quickly stripped, then swung her hips as she walked to the edge of the water. “I think I hear a horse.” Chelsea flew into the water up to her neck. “See, I told you.” She stopped and stared. Dirk laughed until he had tears in his eyes. “I knew that would get you in the rest of the way.” “What a silly, dirty trick.” She stomped toward the shore. Dirk reached out and grabbed her. “Let me down this minute.” Chelsea pretended to be mad. But her body was on fire for the tall cowboy. “Certainly.” Dirk let her slide along his front as he gradually let her feet touch the sand. He released her. “Are you sure you want to get out?” His hard cock pulsed against her. His eyes had darkened to a deep blue. His musky cologne and man smell weakened her knees. She ran her fingers across his taut shoulders. “I may need help getting out.” A flash of light gleamed in his eyes. “I’d be most happy to assist you.” He swung her up into his arms and walked to shore where he laid her on the blanket. “You planned to seduce me all along. You don’t even care about eating.” “Yes, I’m seducing you, but you’re wrong. I am hungry, for you.” He stood above her as the sun warmed her skin. “Beautiful. Where shall I start my banquet?” Chelsea shivered. He reminded her of the old stories about men battling for their woman. His long legs were on either side of her. His face was hidden by the shadows. She put her arms up to him. “Come to me, my love.” She startled

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herself when she used the word love. She was always so careful to keep it out of her vocabulary. He didn’t say anything, but he knelt and kissed her chest in the valley between her luscious breasts. His hands cupped them. Then he tasted her plump nipples. Gradually he let his whole body cover hers. He held his weight off her by his elbows. “Where shall we start, my love?” Chelsea pushed him, and he rolled onto his back. “I want to be in command.” His sensuous smile tightened the coil of desire in her abdomen. “I’m yours.” His husky voice made her shiver again. She studied his body as she nibbled, licked, and kissed her way down his length. Starting at his earlobe, she moved to his neck, along the edge of his shoulder, across his nipples to his flat abdomen. His skin was warm, and firm, and tasted salty in places. When she’d put her head against his chest, she heard and felt the pounding of his heart. He looked at her with hooded eyes. She heard a faint groan when she ignored his rigid cock and sat straight, running her hands up and down his muscled legs. Then, finally, she cupped his sac with one hand and held his velvet, soft-skinned, firm cock in her other. He almost jumped. His body bowed, pushing his dick further into her hand. Gently, she ran a finger around and across the top of his dick. Then she placed her body in position to take him inside her hot, wet pussy. “Wait.” His breath rumbled in his chest, and his hands clamped onto her waist. “I’ll get the condom.” He grabbed one from his jeans pocket and quickly put it on. “Now try that position again.” She straddled his body and sank down, taking his cock inside the tight, inner walls of her pussy. Pushing upward, his dick filled her. Chelsea taunted him by moving very slow, and then fast for a minute, then slow. “You’re living dangerously.” “How?”

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He rolled her and plunged deep and hard, taking her swiftly over the edge into a warm haven of delight. “That’s how.” Dirk answered her previous question. “My tether had reached its limit.” Dirk lay beside her until his breathing slowed. He rose and ran into the cool water. Chelsea watched a minute before she joined him. They splashed and played until she reminded him it was getting late. “Yeah. You drive. I’ll eat a sandwich on the way back. We’ll do the picnic another time. I got diverted.” He kissed her mouth and gave her sweet ass a pat as she walked by him to dress. “You distract me all the time.” She swished her hips, dressed, and walked out of sight between the rocks. His groan followed and made her smile. Chelsea returned to the house after dropping Dirk off. She ate her sandwich and poured soda into a glass. She’d take her drink and go turn on Dirk’s computer to look at laptops. It had become a habit for her to glance at the loft as she walked by. Something caught her eye. She tiptoed up the stairs. Her hand went to her mouth. Furniture. A desk and matching chair sat in the spot she’d have chosen. On the surface of the desk was a laptop. On another small table a printer and paper. Everything a person would need to start writing. Should she open the laptop? She walked closer. He must have set up this room for a new office. Tentatively, her hand touched the top of the computer. Unable to resist, she sat in the plush chair, opened the top, and pushed the on button. It had been set up with all the necessary programs. There was one e-mail. Probably a message from the manufacturer. She clicked, feeling guilty at looking at someone else’s mail. Hi, love. I knew you wouldn’t be able to resist turning the computer on or looking at the mail. I set it up under my email account so you wouldn’t be bothered with a deluge of mail until you’re ready.

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Start writing that book. Dirk. She couldn’t remember when she’d been surprised by a gift. The sunshine coming in the windows gave a soft glow to the loft. Chelsea put her fingers on the keys. Was she making the right decision? She’d never been hesitant before. Her modus operandi had been to jump in first and ask questions later, and look where that had got her, almost killed. In a silly way she felt like typing the first sentence of a book was making a commitment to stay here with Dirk. But the desire to write was too strong. When he came home, she’d make sure he knew she was using his equipment temporarily. There, that was settled. She set up her page and began to type. **** “I thought I might find you here.” Dirk’s deep voice startled her. “It’s getting dark. I’m surprised you can see well enough to type.” He bent to see what was on the computer as she jumped up. “Oh my gosh. I forgot dinner and everything. Is it really this late?” She checked her watch. “It is. Don’t worry about dinner. Ty invited us to join them.” “But I”—she shook her head—“I was going to cook a real good dinner to thank you.” Dirk gave her his sexy smile. Whenever he did, she wanted to jump his bones. “I can think of other ways to thank me. We can discuss them when we get home tonight.” “There’s just one problem. You spent a lot of money, and I’m not sure how long I’ll be here.” “It’s not a problem. Your idea was good. The loft makes a perfect office. I’ll use it when you leave.” “But you already have an office.”

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Dirk cupped her head in his hand and tipped her chin upward. His mouth brushed across hers, just barely touching. Her insides quivered with the desire for more. “Maybe I’ll turn it into a nursery. Because one of these days I plan to marry. I want children. The first time I held Diana I knew I wanted to have a child of my own in my arms.” His eyes darkened and seemed to hold a warning in them. “I won’t marry a woman unless she has the same feelings I do about home and family.” He gave her another quick kiss and started down the stairs. “Better get ready. They’re expecting us in half an hour.” Bemused, Chelsea touched her lips. He’d given her a gently worded warning. She’d been surprised. In a way she’d always thought she had the upper hand. Up until the day she walked off after she turned down his proposal and she didn’t hear from him again. She’d thought, maybe hoped, he’d change his mind and stay overseas. He didn’t. And when she encountered him the one time at the ranch after that, he hadn’t seem interested at all. But then he’d rescued her. He put his life on the line. He must care for her. Yet he’d said he would find someone else to marry if she didn’t want the same as him. Perplexed, not sure she knew Dirk as well as she thought, Chelsea went to the master bedroom where they’d moved all her clothes. Dirk was coming out of the shower. His black hair was wet, and drops of water glistened on his broad shoulders. Heat flashed from her middle to the tips of her fingers and the end of her toes. He looked good enough to eat. Sauntering across the room to him, she stopped in his space. Her finger ran across his chest, brushing his nipples. A flash of fire burned deep in his eyes, and he took a quick breath. “I don’t suppose we can call off tonight and stay in?” She whispered the words in his ear. With a firm touch he set her back from him. “I accepted. They’ll be expecting us. I’ll dress while you have your shower.”

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Stunned, she watched him stroll to his closet and step inside. Her balance was off. What had happened? It was as though they’d been playing a game, and he’d taken control. Everything he’d done for her raced through her mind, rescuing her, taking her to a place for privacy, giving her time to recover. And today surprising her with just what she wanted. When he made love to her, her body pulsed with pleasure and love. Love? Maybe. But she wasn’t the right woman for him. She still didn’t see herself as a wife and mother puttering around the house. She’d started a story on her new laptop. She knew where she was going with it and how it would end. But Dirk and her—she had no idea. She feared it might end badly for both of them.

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Chapter Eleven They were headed out the door when the phone rang. “Hi, Mom,” Dirk answered. “How is everyone? I know I haven’t been home in some time. Everyone’s going to be there? I’ll come, but I have a guest I’ll be bringing.” He laughed. “Yes, a lady. I think you’ll like her.” He glanced at Chelsea and winked. “All right, tomorrow at noon. See you. Love you, too.” He flipped the cell shut. Dirk put his arm around Chelsea’s waist and escorted her to his truck. When they were in and driving toward Ty’s place, Chelsea spoke. “I take it that was your mother?” “Yes. Wanting to see her darling son.” He laughed when Chelsea made a face at him. “She believes I’m her darling.” “Right, she’s your mother. What was this about us being somewhere at noon tomorrow?” “All the family is getting together to celebrate my sister’s twentythird birthday. I must admit I’d forgotten. I’m usually better at remembering, but my thoughts have been in other directions lately. This will give you a chance to meet the whole Brodie clan.” “Sounds overwhelming to meet them all at once.” “Get the shock over with, and then you can begin to see who they really are. They’re all unique in their own ways.” “I’d planned on writing tomorrow.” “No. Even if we weren’t going to see my family I’d want us to spend time together on the weekends.” “I don’t remember this being part of the agreement when I came here.”

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Dirk parked at the front of the house. He turned to face her. “Are you refusing to go with me?” “Well, no.” She’d never tell him, but she was curious about this big family. “I’ll go.” “Fine. We’ll leave at nine. It’s about a two-hour drive. I’ve ridden my horse before, but you haven’t done any long horseback rides lately. We’ll take the truck.” “Thank goodness for small blessings.” Dirk opened her door and lifted her out. He let her body slide against him, and then held her against the side of the truck. Dipping his head, he took a deep breath at the junction between her neck and shoulder. “You smell delicious. I’ll show you how much when we get home.” He put his arm around her waist and walked her to the door. Home. It had a nice ring to it. I’d better watch out, or he’ll have me seduced right into being a cowgirl again. Ty and Lily greeted them at the door. Diana let go of her mother’s neck and put out her hands toward Dirk. He laughed, took her, and cradled her in his big arms. He kissed her forehead and the tiny hands took hold of his jaw. “See what I mean?” Lily nodded toward her baby daughter. “She likes men best, especially daddy and her adopted uncle. Come on in the kitchen with me. We’ll talk while I finish our dinner.” Chelsea started to follow her. She glanced back. Diana was grinning and waving her arms and kicking her feet while enfolded in Dirk’s embrace. Chelsea noted the look on his face when he smiled at Diana. Her heart gave a lurch. He’d make a great father and a wonderful husband. “Chelsea,” Lily called to her. She turned and hurried to the kitchen. Her face flushed. She hoped Dirk hadn’t noticed her staring at him. Lily stirred a large pot on the stove. “Fresh green beans from the garden. I cooked a large amount. Then I can reheat them for several more dinners. I’m not quite as crazy about cooking as my sister and

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sister-in-law. So I cook big batches and usually freeze some and have some later in the week.” “Do you enjoy the gardening?” “I do. I was surprised. Being a city girl, I had little experience. Ty’s mom’s been a big help. It’s fun to watch the seeds sprout and grow. Also rewarding when you put the food on the table. Have you had a garden?” “I grew up on a farm. My dad said the garden was my mother and my responsibility. He was a harsh taskmaster. When I left home, I promised myself I’d never live on a farm again.” “And then you met Dirk.” “At first I just thought he was a geologist with the same goals and outlook on life as me. By the time I found out he planned to go home and back to a ranch, I’d fallen a little in love with him.” Chelsea surprised herself admitting to her feelings, but there was something about Lily. She sensed she could trust her. Lily’s mouth quirked up in a half grin. “A little in love. To me you’re either in love or not.” “I fought it. He proposed to me before he went stateside. I refused.” “Wow. And he still got a team together and went to rescue you. That says a lot.” Lily leaned down and took a baked chicken out of the oven. The delicious odor filled the kitchen. She started to carve the meat into moist slices. “If he proposed again, what would stop you from saying yes? I see the love in your eyes for him. Especially when he’s holding Diana.” “My life as a child was unhappy. I can’t get past the fear he’d marry me, and then begin to treat me like my father.” “Has he done that?” “No. And there is another reason. I’m getting over the shock of what happened overseas. I’m not sure if my boss contacted me and offered me some job I really want, that I could refuse it.” “Does your boss know where you are?”

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“He has my e-mail address, but I haven’t checked it since I’ve been back.” “Come to visit me more often. Let me show you the satisfaction of being a cowboy’s wife.” Chelsea laughed. “That’d be the day.” Ty stuck his head in the door. “I put Diana down for the night. We’re hungry.” “You poor dear,” Lily said. She pulled his head down and kissed him. “I feel better now.” Ty grinned at her. “You two”—Lily nodded at Dirk—“go into the dining room. We’ll be bringing the food right in.” Chelsea carried in the green beans and mashed potatoes. Lily brought in the chicken and rolls. “Hmmm, this smells delicious,” Dirk said. “I almost had to starve tonight. Chelsea was so busy writing her first novel she forgot all about the time.” He winked at Chelsea. “Really? I didn’t know you wrote fiction,” Lily said. “I don’t, but I’ve had an idea to try someday. Dirk furnished the loft with all I’d need for an efficient office. I couldn’t wait to put my fingers on the keys.” “That’s super. Did I tell you about how I came to take care of Ty’s business accounts?” Lily regaled them with Ty’s reaction and her determination. Ty winked at Lily. “That was that Ty guy, not Jeffrey.” “Jeffrey?” Chelsea asked. “That’s another story. It’s how Ty seduced me into marrying him.” “True.” Ty proceeded to tell a condensed version of the story. **** As Dirk drove home later, Chelsea sat close to his side and curled

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her feet up under her. Her head lay on his shoulder. “It was a good night. I had fun. They’re a great couple.” “They went through many ups and downs before they found their way together. But yes, they are a quite a pair, and they love each other very much. I’m glad for both of them.” He rubbed his hand along her leg and up her thigh. “Are you too tired to play?” “Tired, but you might convince me to do some cuddling.” “I like cuddling.” He turned his head and kissed her forehead. Soon they were turning into his drive. He came around and carried her into the house straight to the bedroom. Dirk put her feet on the carpet and unfastened the snaps to her cowboy shirt. “They pop open nice and quick.” He threw the shirt across to the chair. For a moment, he stared at her. He loved all of her, her soft, tousled curls, stubborn chin, full, lush lips and rosy nipples peaking through the lace of her miniscule bra. He ached to feel his cock deep inside her wet pussy. His hands reached to the front center and unclasped the bra, letting it drop. He cupped her soft breasts as his mouth tasted her pink lips. Hot desire flashed straight to his cock. He felt her slight tremor as his teeth nibbled at her full bottom lip. Her arms had wrapped around his neck, and she threw the lower part of her body against his. She rubbed her abdomen across his hard cock, pulsing against the zipper of his jeans. Her arms went down, and she took hold of his buckle, unfastened it, and unzipped his pants. When she pushed his boxers downward, his dick jumped into her hand. He groaned at the touch of her fingers around him. Her thumb brushed across the top. Pulling out of his embrace, she slid down and took his dick into her warm, wet mouth. A blast of pleasure shot up his spine into his brain. Her tongue did wonderful things as she licked and sucked on his cock. He held on to her soft curls and braced his legs as sensual waves of ecstasy rolled

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through his body. His balls ached for relief. Chelsea, with a light grip, cupped them in her hands. He caught his breath as heat shot through his body. “Stop.” “Why? No. I want to finish.” Bowing her head she took him in deep and sucked. His orgasm felt like his head blew off. Ripples of blissful pleasure hit every cell in his body. Chelsea slid upward, kissing his skin as she rose. Pivoting, she pushed and he fell on the bed. “I think I might die.” “Not yet. She threw off the rest of her clothes and climbed on the bed, straddling his legs. “I’m not through with you yet. Don’t you dare die.” “If I do, I’ll be grinning. But I thought you wanted to cuddle?” “I do. Later.” Dirk chuckled and rolled her under him. “This time I get to feast.” He sheathed his aroused cock. Then ran his fingers through her sweetsmelling curls and tipped her head so he could ravage her delectable mouth. His teeth nipped at her lower lip, and his tongue ran along the soft interior. Pushing her hair to the side, he nibbled on her earlobe as his hand cupped her breast. “Does this feel good, sweetheart?” he asked as his finger raked across her tight nipple and his teeth scraped along the edge of her ear. “Yes, but there are other areas that are hungrier for your touch.” “Really? Show me.” She ran her hand down across her stomach to her clit. “There?” “Don’t tease, fill me.” “Ah, but teasing is another step in the dance of love.” Deliberately, he slowed. His lips tasted all along her neck and gave special attention to the spot where her heart raced against her ivory skin. His tongue went back and forth across the spot. His teeth edged

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along her shoulder and then moved quickly to her nipple. Gently he moved his teeth across the sensitive peak. Her moan sent his desire into the stratosphere. Would he never appease his need for this woman? And if she left, how did he recover? He pushed the negative thoughts away, and separating her pink folds, he licked from her clit to her pussy opening. He tasted her sweet essence and licked inside the opening. Her fingers were wild in his hair. She held him close and screamed his name as her body bowed. He pulled back and plunged into her tight pussy. Her inner walls pulsed with her desire. Leaning down he suckled her breast as his cock went deeper and held. Chelsea thrashed her head back and forth and bucked under him. His orgasm shot heat and fire to the far reaches of his body, and he pumped hard as the intensity increased, sending him over the edge. Chelsea stiffened and moaned as they both came together. **** Later, Chelsea lay with her back against Dirk’s front and her buttocks curved into his abdomen. From his heavy breathing she knew he was asleep. What was she going to do? Tonight watching him with the baby and his friends, thinking about all their times together, she’d known Lily was right. She loved him. But was it enough to keep her on the ranch? Tomorrow she’d meet his family. Families told a lot about the members of the clan, as Dirk called them. Would they like her? Would she like them? So many questions, and few answers. She both looked forward to and yet dreaded the visit to meet his mother and siblings. She stirred around trying to get to sleep. Dirk’s hand cupped her breast. “Sleep. Don’t worry. It will all work out.” He kissed her neck and held her tight. Then he went right back to sleep.

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She slept fitfully and was glad to see light shining around the edges of the curtains. Chelsea slipped carefully out of bed to not wake Dirk. She took her clothes and went across to the bathroom she’d used before changing to Dirk’s room. After a quick shower she dressed in jeans, an aquamarine silk shirt, and her boots. She’d cook them a full breakfast before their trip. If she kept busy, maybe she wouldn’t be a bundle of nerves when she got to Dirk’s mother’s home. As she’d expected, the scent of bacon frying, biscuits baking in the oven, and coffee percolating brought Dirk to the kitchen. His hair was damp from the shower and his jeans hung low on his hips. “What a way to wake up. I followed the wonderful smells.” “Looks like you showered first,” Chelsea said, and smiled. “I did, and brushed my teeth like a big boy. For that, I deserve a kiss.” He pulled her close, and his warm mouth captured hers. Her hands went to his chest, and then around his neck. She leaned her body totally forward. Hard-muscled arms wrapped around her. His tongue moved into her mouth and tasted and tangled with hers. Desire sizzled in her body. The ding of the oven broke the spell. She pushed Dirk back. “Behave. I have a good meal cooked. We aren’t going to waste it.” He put his forehead down to hers. “I was afraid you were going to be practical and not let me sweep you off your feet.” Dirk kissed her mouth and started back to the bedroom. “Let me grab a shirt and I’ll join you.” “I kind of like you as you are,” she hollered at him. He stopped and faced her. “There were a few manners my mother really enforced. One, you never came to the table without a shirt. To this day I can’t even do it if I’m alone.” He strode on to his bedroom. “Five well-mannered sons? I can’t wait to meet this woman,” Chelsea mumbled to herself. None of the breakfast was left but a few biscuits. Dirk sat back and picked up his cup of coffee. “I need to run or do some type of exercise before getting behind the wheel. With all the food I ate, I’ll

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get sleepy.” “Do you run? I used to.” “I haven’t had time lately. We could start running early together. Short distances at first. There are some nice paths around where you can run and view nature. It’s a good way to start the day.” “Let’s do it, starting today. I’ll clean the kitchen first to let our meal settle.” “And I’ll straighten the bedroom, pack some colas in the cooler, check the car. But we can’t start today. We’d have to shower again and redress. I don’t like to be late.” “All right, tomorrow then.” She watched him head back to his room. His mother’s rule two must be to always make your bed. She’d noticed that about him. Today might be fun after all. **** Dirk took the back roads. Chelsea admired the scenery, tall pines, fields full of wildflowers, and always in the background the snowcovered mountains. There was a peacefulness about the land that she’d forgotten. A sense of being home where she belonged. When she’d wiped out her painful memories of home, she’d also gotten rid of the memories that were good. The feeling she’d had for the land. It was scary to think the land was pulling her in and wrapping itself around her heart. To keep her confusing thoughts from running around and around in her head, she turned to Dirk. “Tell me something about your family before I get there. I need to have a way to keep their names and what they do in my brain.” “No one expects you to be able to remember us all in one meeting, but I’ll give you a brief rundown. I’ve already mentioned my older brother, Clayton, runs the family business, and us if we’d allow it. He’s thirty-four and engaged to a very thin, very snobbish socialite. I believed he picked her for her background. Whatever he does, he has

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a purpose.” “You don’t believe he loves her?” “I’m not sure anyone does but her parents. You’ll see what I mean. She’s sure to come with him. The easiest one of us to remember is Grace, the only girl. She thinks she wants to be a fashion designer. She’s apprenticing with some big fashion house in New York.” “You sound like she’s not really serious about her goal.” “We’ve all spoiled her. She just started this apprentice job. The first time someone yells at her, she’ll come home.” “Shame on you. Have a little faith in her. I bet she had to fight all of you to get out on her own.” Chelsea saw Dirk was thinking about what she said. His cheeks flushed. “Damn, you’re right. We’ve been doing to her what I hate for Clayton to try to do to me.” “What about the other brothers?” “The third brother, Rand, just got his MD, did his internship, and then his residency in internal medicine. He’s engaged, too. His future wife is also a doctor.” “Wow, that will be a busy household. Did he always want to be a doctor?” “Yes. Rand is very organized, and once he knew the direction he wanted to go, he went straight for it. Graham is next in line. He studied history. A waste of time and money as far as Clayton is concerned. But Graham has always walked to the beat of a different drummer. He drives Clayton even crazier than I do.” “Has he taught history?” “No. He traveled and saw the places he’d studied. He recently came home and is writing a book.” Chelsea chuckled. “That must have had Clayton pacing the floors.” “I’m sure the top of his head blew off when he first heard. To be fair to Clayton, when Dad died, he jumped in and took over. He’s

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done a good job, but he missed that period in your life when you play, party, discover what you really want. The yoke was put around his neck, and he accepted it.” “Deep down, you really admire and love him, don’t you?” “Yeah, but don’t tell him. I just keep hoping he’ll meet a real woman who will show him the fun side of life. It won’t happen though. He’ll be married before he has a chance.” “I feel sorry for him.” “Me, too.” Dirk turned left onto a narrow two-lane road. This starts our ranch. We’ve not widened the road. It discourages strangers.” “Smart idea. But quick there’s one more brother you haven’t mentioned.” “Ah, yes. The youngest, Sam. He’s in charge of the ranch. He loves the land and the work. After he got his degree in agriculture, with a minor in animal husbandry, he came right back home. Sam is the peacemaker. You’ll see.” Dirk turned toward a white house that sat on a knoll. Gardens were in full bloom around the verandas that were on at least three sides. The green lawns slanted downward to a small lake where a gazebo sat, with lattice woodwork, beside the water. “What a beautiful setting. It must have been a wonderful place to grow up.” “It was. I wish Dad was alive so you could meet him. He was great. He gave each of us individual time, encouraged our interests. He and Mom were great parents. I’m not sure how many baseball and football games they attended. Mom was a Girl Scout leader. Some days the house was overrun with girls. All of us boys literally ran for the hills.” Dirk parked beside a large SUV and came around to open her door. His warm, funny at times, commentary about his family had relaxed her. She looked forward to putting faces to names. But what would they think of her and her relationship with their brother? What was their relationship? She didn’t know the answer to that question herself.

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Chapter Twelve They walked up several steps before the walkway became flat. A slim, medium-height woman in a pale yellow dress welcomed them. “You made it. I’m so glad.” “Mom, you know if I said I was coming I’d be here, and we’re ten minutes early.” “So you are. Who is this lovely lady?” She smiled at Chelsea. “Chelsea Pearce, this is my mother, Mrs. Brodie.” “Not Mrs., call me Jane.” “I can’t do that, Mrs. Brodie. My parents said it was disrespectful to call an—” she hesitated. Mrs. Brodie’s eyes twinkled like Dirk’s when he had her in a tight spot. “I believe the word is an elder person. You were not to call him or her by their first name?” “Yes.” “I like her. She’s been taught well,” Mrs. Brodie said to Dirk. Then she turned to Chelsea. “But I insist on Jane. It is quite acceptable around here. Come in and join the rest.” She winked at Chelsea. “I’m sure you’re excited about meeting us all at once.” She liked his mother. She was friendly and funny. Chelsea took a deep breath, caught hold of Dirk’s hand, and stepped into a beautiful house. Creamy walls complemented the dark wooden floors and the light-blue furniture. Several vases, full of fresh flowers, sat on small tables scattered around the room. At one side of the room a piano sat by a bay window overlooking a wide expanse of prairie. Chandeliers hung from the ceilings. The room was large, colorful, and greeted you with warmth.

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“May I ask who decorated this room for you?” “I had it done a few years ago before my daughter went off to the big city. She helped me. She’s good with colors and seeing the placement of furniture. She likes rearranging furniture.” “She sure does,” Dirk said. “My brothers and I never knew what home we’d come into when we returned at the end of the day. Sometimes we were sure we’d gone to the wrong house, or we wished we had. Still, she has definitely gotten better.” “Dirk said she was a fashion designer?” “It seems she prefers that to decorating houses. She’s very talented,” Mrs. Brodie said. “Where is she?” Dirk glanced down a long hallway. “Where do you think?” “Riding?” “Yes, and obviously she’s forgotten the time again. Thank goodness Clayton isn’t here yet. He’d be fuming about her forgetting the time.” Chelsea heard a car, and Dirk looked out the window. “She’d better get back soon. The boss is here.” “Don’t call him that, Dirk. You know it gets his back up. I love him, but I don’t know where he got his uptightness from. Certainly not from his father or me.” Dirk moved to Chelsea’s side and put his arm around her. They both watched a tall, dark-brown-haired man and a very slim, tall blonde march toward the front door. Mrs. Brodie went to the door to greet Clayton and his fiancée. Introductions were made. Clayton had cool, light-blue eyes, high cheekbones, a tight mouth, and a strong, square jaw. His posture was upright and his dark-blue suit fit him to a tee. He was a handsome man, but not overly friendly. He gazed at her with speculation in his eyes. Priscilla, his fiancée, was cold. Apparently she thought a genuine smile might crack her lovely face. The slight upcurve of her lips must

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be the best she was willing to do. A young woman rushed in. She’d been hurrying, because her cheeks were flushed. She wore a pink sundress and sandals. Her auburn hair blew around her in soft waves halfway down her back. A man younger than Dirk followed behind. His hair was a lighter brown with tints of blond. He was tall, slim, and, with his golden-brown eyes, very handsome. He came across to Chelsea. “I’m Sam. Welcome.” He hugged Dirk. “I’ve missed you, brother.” “I’ll try to get over more often. Why don’t you visit me?” “I will. I want to see that new house.” Chelsea enjoyed watching the interaction of the family. She’d never been exposed to such a large group. Mrs. Brodie joined her. “We’re a lot of people for a person to get used to all at once. Come with me for a walk. Did you see my gazebo?” “It’s lovely. You can’t miss seeing it, but I’d love to check it out up close.” They walked slowly down the gentle slope to the lake. Ducks paddled along the edge of the water. A gentle breeze blew their hair. “Step inside. I have two comfy chairs and a nice table. I like to bring my lemonade, or hot tea when it’s cooler, and sit and contemplate my world.” “You have a beautiful ranch and house, six children that adore you, and I must say you taught your sons well. Dirk is a fine gentleman.” “Thank you. Are you in love with him?” Chelsea was taken aback by her blunt question. She looked around at the colorful surroundings and tried to find the right answer. “I think I fell a little in love with him the first time we met.” She glanced at Mrs. Brodie. “We were overseas and both had a few days off. He was funny, intelligent, and sexy.” She glanced at his mother. “You don’t have to blush. I remember the feelings well when I

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met his father. Go on, I interrupted.” “Later on he asked me to marry him.” “He never said a thing to any of the family as far as I know.” “I turned him down.” “I recognized you. You’re the reporter who got captured.” “Yes. Dirk and his friends rescued me. I hope none of you will mention my being here or that the military weren’t the ones to find me. It’s best that way. And I’m not ready to deal with my fellow reporters.” “We won’t say a word. But I wonder why my son went halfway around the world to rescue you, when you’d turned his proposal down?” “I’m pretty sure he loves me.” “And you?” “Loving someone is not always easy. Especially when he wants a wife and family at home on the ranch. I’m not sure I can survive in that setting.” Why had she said that? Why open up to his mother? Mrs. Brodie was extremely easy to talk to, and now she’d tell Dirk what she said. Then he’d question her before she was ready. Mrs. Brodie put her hand on Chelsea’s. “You look anxious. Don’t worry. I won’t say anything to Dirk. You two have to make decisions for yourselves. I understand. “My sister married Mr. Terrell, and she’d never lived on a ranch. It was an adjustment for her. They loved each other so much they made it work. She grew to be a part of the ranch as much as him. “It was the same for me. My husband, Clay, was a good friend of Frank Terrell’s. I met him when I visited my sister. It was love at first sight. But I took to the country living immediately. I was so ecstatic to be with him, working at his side, making a home for him, loving him, that I never looked back. If you have love, you can do a lot of things.” “But should the woman have to give up her career?” “I’m not sure. I think she has to decide on her own how she wants to live her life. Once you know the answer, you’ll know what to do.

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There is no wrong way to go if you follow your heart’s desire.” She squeezed Chelsea’s hand. “I think we’d better go back. It’s time to eat.” Dirk’s cell phone rang just as Chelsea walked up. He stepped aside. But she heard him say Rand. Evidently, the doctor brother was the caller. “Is everything all right?” she asked Dirk when he returned. “You’re frowning.” “Rand’s not coming today, but he wants to meet me at home tomorrow. He said to tell Mom he’d be by tomorrow to make up for missing the party.” He searched the room and then yelled, “Grace, are you staying here for a few days?” She walked in his direction. “I am. I took off four days. Why?” “Rand can’t make it today. He’ll see you tomorrow.” “That’s strange. He said he and his fiancée would both be coming.” “Probably one of them had to work after all. You know doctors. Starting out they don’t have good hours.” “Did he ask to speak to me or Mom?” “He asked about Mom. I told him she had walked down to the gazebo for a minute with Chelsea. Actually, I thought you might have been with them until I looked around after the call.” Graham, the writer, arrived late as they were sitting down at the table. “Sorry, the time slipped away.” He glanced down the table. “Happy birthday, little one.” Grace pretended to frown. “I’m not little. I’m an adult.” Graham shrugged his shoulders. “You’ll always be little one to me.” He grabbed his tea glass and took a long drink.” Soon the chatter went on all around the table. People talked to the person beside them, and the one at the far end of the table. Chelsea loved it. She’d fallen into a foreign country and wished she could stay. The only person not fully involved was Clayton’s fiancée, who picked at her food and looked totally bored. Some of the family tried

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to include her, but she answered with one or two words. Chelsea found herself involved in several heated discussions. No one ever got mad, though. There was much laughter at the table. Even Clayton smiled once or twice. **** They left late. The full moon shone a silver path across the land. The fresh air coming in the windows was cool. When they got to the TRC ranch, Dirk slowed. “Do you know what a night like this is good for?” he asked Chelsea. “For studying the thousands of stars?” She’d sat close to him and had her head leaning against his arm. He drove further before he answered. “For making love under the stars in the open.” He turned the wheel. They bounced down a twolane dirt road. “I know just the spot. I’ve been hot for you all night.” “In front of your mother and family?” She gave him a side-glance. “For shame.” “They can’t read my mind, thank goodness, or my mom would have washed my head out.” “You are too funny.” Dirk pulled the truck into a spot near several trees. “I’m not joking. I intend take off your clothes and sink into your sweet pussy. Any objections?” “It’s a bit cold.” “Silly girl.” He pulled her out of the truck and into his arms. “I’ll keep you warm.” He reached around her and behind the driver’s seat and got a blanket. He spread the cover on the ground, and then led her to the spot. Desire shone out of Dirk’s eyes as he began to unbutton her shirt. He let it slip to the blanket. He didn’t kiss her, but just the touch of his fingers brushing across her skin sent heat flickering along every nerve

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ending. He made short work of unfastening her belt, unzipping her jeans, and removing them and her panties in one fell swoop. Her shoes were put to the side. He stood back. “I’d love to have a painting of you done at night, naked in the moonlight. Except I wouldn’t want another man to see you with your skin glowing, your red hair glistening like fire, and the light of the moon showcasing your lush curves.” “My turn. I want to see you.” She had his shirt off in a minute. “Let me help.” Dirk sat and yanked off his boots. Then he removed his jeans and shorts. He stood in front of her. “What do you think?” He raised an eyebrow. “Hmmm.” She walked around him observing his long, lean back and tight ass. Moonlight shone on his broad shoulders, but other parts of his body were cast in shadows, giving his face a mysterious bearing. Light etched his wide chest, down his six-pack, to his hard cock. Well-muscled legs stood wide apart. He was a magnificent warrior from the past. She giggled at her silly thoughts. “This is bad if I inspire giggles and not moans.” “You have much too big a head anyway.” He glanced downward. “You think it’s too big?” “You’re incorrigible.” Dirk took her shoulders and moved her to the center of the blanket. “Stand there while I give you an inspection.” A shiver passed across her skin. She felt vulnerable. His hand touched her left shoulder and a finger trailed around to the back of her neck. Then he let his hand slide down the middle of her back to her bottom. “Skin like velvet.” His hands cupped her ass. “Nice.” She started to move. “Stay.” Next he touched her legs, and his lips whispered a kiss on the sensitive backside of her knee. His fingers trailed up the center of her legs and as he rose he held her back against his front and cupped her breast with one hand, while the other separated her soft folds and

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found her nub. She trembled. His lips kissed her neck and shivers ran down her spine. Desire coiled in her lower abdomen, and her nipples peaked, aching for attention. “You are mine. You may not admit it yet,” he whispered in her ear. His teeth ran across her earlobe. “But you will,” he said. His hand had moved up to hold her across her abdomen and his hand and arm circled around her breasts. “Mine.” Gently he lay her on the blanket and spread her legs. His mouth closed on her nub, and his tongue swirled around her most sensitive spot. Fluid seeped out of her pussy. Dirk breathed deep. “I love your scent when you’re excited. He licked along her folds and his tongue darted into her opening. Her hips rose to meet his mouth as she cried out his name. Her pussy walls clenched and unclenched, wanting him deep inside her. “Take me,” she cried out. “You’re sure you are ready?” “Don’t tease. I want to feel your hard cock deep in me.” He grinned. “A gentleman always gives a lady what she wants.” He reached for a condom, rolled it on and moved into position. His eyes met hers as he surged inside her hot, tight pussy. She raised her legs around him taking him in deeper. He groaned when she tightened her pussy walls. He moved in and out faster and faster, and she found his rhythm and followed. A wave of sheer delight ran up her body. Dirk plunged once more and held as they found their release together. Afterward, he held her tight in his arms. “Cold?” “I’m burning up, and my heart’s pounding a hundred miles an hour.” “Good, then I’m not alone.” His heart beat hard against her back. She was warm and safe. He kissed the top of her head. Dozens of stars shone in the dark night, and the moon touched the earth with silver. Could anything be better than this?

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Chapter Thirteen Chelsea found a pattern to her days. She’d visit Lily in the mornings. They’d talk, and Lily taught her how to cook more dishes and to bake. It was fun surprising Dirk with different dinners. Other times, she and Lily played with Diana. Chelsea found herself becoming more and more comfortable handling Diana and caring for her. In the afternoons, she wrote. She was surprised her days were happy, interesting, and flew by. Tonight, she and Dirk were taking care of Diana while Ty and Lily went out to dinner. This was the first time for Chelsea, and she had to admit she was nervous. But not as much as she’d be if she hadn’t had more contact with the baby in the last few weeks. “Hi,” Dirk came in the door as she pulled out a tuna casserole. “I’m glad you’re early. We’ll eat and then we can give Diana our undivided attention when she gets here.” “Are you still nervous? I thought all those lessons from Lily would make you feel confident.” “Taking care of a baby when her mother is there is a little different than with both parents gone for the evening.” Dirk wrapped his arms around her and tickled her neck. “Don’t worry. Being the second oldest of six, I’ve had plenty of experience. And she’s been a doll when I kept her.” Laughing, she pulled out of his grasp. “I’ll remember when she’s crying, and I don’t know what to do. I feel much relieved to have such an expert on hand.” “Wait a minute. I didn’t say I was that good.” “Nope, you can’t back out now. Are you ready to eat?”

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“Will it keep if I take a quick shower?” She let her gaze go from his face down his body and up. “Yes, if I stay in the kitchen.” She winked at him. “I’d love to take you up on your offer. Make it again later.” “Did I make an offer?” She turned and started to set the table. Dirk whistled as he headed to the bedroom. They were becoming like an old married couple, and what frightened her was she thought she might like it to stay that way. Their timing was perfect. They’d eaten and were just finishing cleaning the kitchen when Lily brought Diana to the door. When the baby saw Dirk, she reached out her arms. Lily and Chelsea just laughed. “You can reach us on our cell,” Lily said. “Do you still have the doctor’s number?” Lily asked Dirk. “Yes. Don’t worry she’ll be fine with us.” Dirk handed Chelsea the diaper bag. He took the bottles out of the other bag and put them in the refrigerator. “Enough, sweetheart. We’re only going for dinner.” Ty had walked up behind Lily. “You’re a worse worrier than me. Relax. I’m sure Chelsea and Dirk can handle one little baby for a few hours.” “Forgive me. I know you all will do fine. I’m so seldom away from her that I get anxious.” “I can see I’m going to have to take her out more often,” Ty teased. “See you all later.” He put his arm around Lily and escorted her to the car. Chelsea shut the door. “That’s it. We’re in charge.” Dirk carried Diana around the house. Chelsea could hear him talking nonsense, and the baby cooing. For a second, she imagined Diana was their baby. They were married and settled in this house. The idea didn’t scare her like it would have a few weeks ago. In fact the thought gave her a warm glow inside. She went looking for the two of them and found Dirk watching the sports channel with Diana cuddled in his arms.

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The baby swung her arms around and made noises as though talking. “You haven’t got a chance of getting his attention, sweetheart,” Chelsea said. “Not while he has his favorite sports channel news on.” She took Diana into her arms and sat in the rocker. “There, now we girls can have a talk.” Diana gave her one of her smiles and kicked her feet. She was a darling. Chelsea ran her hands over her golden curls. When she glanced across at Dirk, he was watching her. He had a thoughtful expression on his face. “You’ll make a beautiful mother.” “As I’ve said before, I haven’t given it much serious thought. But Diana is such a good, sweet baby. She makes you think about having one of your own. My guess is they don’t all come as calm and easygoing as her.” “You’re probably right.” Dirk went back to watching the television. Of course, eventually Diana started looking around the room. If Chelsea could read her mind, she was pretty certain she was looking for her mom and dad. Her little face screwed up, got red, and the crying began. Chelsea took her in the bedroom, undressed her, and changed her diaper. Then she put the little nightgown on. Diana stopped crying for a few minutes. “She must be tired. I’ll get her bottle. You hold her in the meantime.” She plopped the baby in Dirk’s arms. Looking back, Chelsea saw Dirk was unconcerned. He walked and talked to the baby. When she returned with the bottle, he was rocking her. She’d quieted down. “Give me the bottle. I’ll give it to her. Sit down and rest.” Chelsea grabbed his seat and turned on her favorite television show. She leaned back in the lounger and closed her eyes for a

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moment. Forty-five minutes later she awoke to hear Ty’s voice. “Man, you’re good. You put them both to sleep.” Lily had rushed across the room and was taking Diana out of Dirk’s arms. “You are going to be the perfect daddy. I know you’ve had plenty of experience with your brothers and sister.” Chelsea stood and stretched. “Don’t leave me out. I helped. I changed her and rocked her, too.” She pretended to pout. “Of course you did,” Lily said. “I taught you well. You two are definitely ready for kids.” “Wait a minute. That’s jumping ahead a bit,” Chelsea said. She noticed Dirk didn’t respond at all. He gave her a long, serious look. “We’re getting out of here. It’s bedtime for us all,” Ty said. He ushered Lily with the baby out to the car. Chelsea and Dirk watched until the headlights went out of sight. Dirk held her close. She turned in his arms. “What are you thinking?” “That you’d better decide fairly soon if you are ready to be a wife and mother. Or we’d best end this relationship before one of us gets hurt. I plan to propose one more time. It will be the last one.” His blue eyes had darkened. There wasn’t a hint of a smile on his face. She saw a man who’d made up his mind, and she’d better make up hers. Dirk walked her into the bedroom and slowly removed her clothes. He undressed and put on a condom before joining her on the bed. His kisses were softer tonight. His touch gentle, but sensuous. Desire was a river of liquid heat flowing in her veins. They didn’t speak except in touches, kisses, and nibbles here and there. Their movements like the rhythm of a love melody. When his hard cock slid into her pussy, his eyes held her gaze. He filled her. Her inner pussy walls clenched him tight. A fire flickered in her deepest spot and smoldered. She wanted more. She tried to speed up

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his movements. But Dirk’s pace stayed slow and steady. She kissed his neck and along his shoulder. When he moved in and out, she matched his timing, meeting him, then retreating. When he leaned forward and suckled her taut nipple, the orgasm rolled over her in a gentle swell of release and pleasure. Dirk held his cock against her womb, and she felt him shudder with his release. “That is how much I love you.” Dirk rolled and pulled her back into his arms. He held her snug as she slid into sleep. **** Watching Chelsea tonight had made him realize how much he wanted to marry her, to have a baby with her, to create their home. The past few weeks he’d been the happiest he could remember, except for the fear she might not reciprocate his feelings. He had to know. One way or the other he wanted an answer. He’d pushed her tonight. It was time. Their slow, easy loving had filled his heart with desire and love. He still had the ring. Tomorrow, he’d ask her. **** Dirk got a call from his brother, Rand, early the next day. “Hi, what’s up? I don’t usually hear from you.” Dirk slowed his horse and rode under a shady tree. “I’m in the area. Is it all right if I stop by? I need to discuss something with you.” “Sure. Where are you?” “About a mile from the ranch. Nothing like calling at the last minute.” “I’ll meet you at the gate. We’ll get some beers from Ty’s refrigerator. His house is closest. Then we’ll take a walk and talk.”

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“Sounds good.” He clicked off. Hmmm, very interesting and not at my best time. My mind’s on Chelsea and what she’ll say tonight. Well, I’d best clear my thoughts. Rand wouldn’t ask for advice unless it was serious. Dirk headed to the ranch house to get the two beers. He’d just come out of the kitchen with two tall ones when Rand ambled toward him. “You look good, little brother,” Dirk said. Rand shrugged. “That beer is what looks good. It’s a warm day.” He took the bottle Dirk handed him and twisted the top off. Then he took a long drink. “You are either very thirsty or worried.” Dirk strode out toward the barn. “It’ll be cool inside the barn office.” They walked into the dim light and turned left away from the horses’ stalls. Dirk opened the door to the small room. A blast of cool air greeted them. He took the old chair by the desk and leaned back. Rand sat on the straight chair and stretched his legs out. Dirk waited for Rand to start the conversation. After another drink and a glance around the room, Rand looked at Dirk. “You know I’ve been engaged the past year.” “To one of the doctors you met in your class, Eleanor.” “Yes. Our plan has been for her to work in a dermatology clinic in the city, and I’d open an internist office.” “I thought you were about ready to do that?” “We were until my last visit home a month or so ago. I came alone and stopped in town to talk with Dr. Neels. He was in, and we had a long discussion. Then I went out on rounds with him.” “Don’t tell me you’re thinking of being a country doctor.” “I am.” Dirk was stunned. He sat his chair up straight. “You are serious?” “I love medicine Dirk. I’m not particularly fond of living in a big city the rest of my life. I think I’d like to join Dr. Neels and later take over his practice. He’s happy with the idea.” “What does Eleanor say?”

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“That’s the problem. She doesn’t know yet.” “Wow. When are you going to tell her?” “What if I bring her here first, let her see the place, and then talk about the idea?” “You want an honest answer?” Rand glanced away. Dirk studied his brother. He’d dressed in jeans and a plaid shirt. His dark-brown hair was cut short, and although he put his legs out to look relaxed, Dirk saw the tension in his muscles. “Yeah,” he finally answered Dirk. “Give it to me.” “Eleanor isn’t going to like the idea no matter how you sugarcoat it. Whatever you decide, it’s either or. Your choice, either Eleanor or country medicine.” His brother took a deep breath. “I knew the answer. Just wanted to run it by you.” “Have you made a decision?” “No. I need to give it some more thought.” Rand handed him the empty beer bottle. “Thanks. I’m headed back to the city after I stop and see Mom and Sis.” He turned and walked to the door. When he took hold of the door knob, he glanced back. “I’ll be in touch.” Dirk sat for a while after Rand left. He and Rand were both at a crossroads in their life. He wasn’t going to wait until this evening. He needed to talk with Chelsea now. **** It was the middle of the afternoon, Dirk called Ty on his cell and told him he could reach him at home. “Is everything all right?” Ty asked. “I hope so. I’ll let you know later.” He snapped his phone shut and rode toward his house. It was time to know the answer to his question. He mulled over what Rand had said. Rand’s fiancée was unlikely to turn into a country doctor or agree with Rand’s idea for him to be

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one. Dirk was so caught up in his thoughts, he went through the kitchen and straight to the great room. He heard Chelsea’s voice above him. “How are things, Bruce?” There was silence. Apparently Bruce was talking. Dirk thought about walking back out and not listening, but his feet wouldn’t move. “I’m sorry. I wasn’t ready to talk with anyone, not even my boss” Another long silence. Dirk’s heart beat double time. And then Chelsea spoke again. “You mean talking about what happened? I can only give limited information to protect the ones who rescued me and took care of me afterward.” Good. Dirk was relieved to hear her comment. He hadn’t doubted she’d protect the guys who took a chance to get her out. “But I do have a private life.” Ah the guy was pressuring her. Dirk started to take a step forward and stopped himself. “How are things, Bruce?” She’d changed the subject and was sticking to her guns. Although his heart ached, he was proud of her. “I appreciate the offers. Let me get back with you. I need to give the two some thought. I’ll call you.” Dirk’s heart sank. She was going back to her work. But he’d make his offer and see what happened. He took the steps slowly. His body felt weighted down. Chelsea had a startled look on her face when she saw him. “You overheard my conversation?” “I hadn’t planned to. I was on my way to talk with you. It sounded like your boss did most of the talking. He made you two offers.” “You must have heard me tell him I’d have to get back with him.” “But you didn’t say no.” Chelsea looked off in the distance. She wet her lips, and fire sparked inside his body.

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Dirk took out the ring he’d put in his pocket this morning. Light from the window shone off the large diamond. Chelsea looked from him to the ring. “This look familiar? I’ve kept it all this time. As I said, I’d ask you one more time to be my wife.” He twirled the ring around the end of his finger. “I planned to have a romantic evening, get on my knee and ask you to marry me, to make a home with me, and have my children. I love you.” “Is it wife or reporter?” “For me it is. Some men might not mind their wife flying off to foreign places. Or accepting the other offer which my guess is to be a famous reporter in the big city.” Her expression told him his guess was right. “No one has the right to take your dream from you, or mine from me. We didn’t fit the first time I proposed. But you seemed to really be happy and settling in. I’d hoped it might be different.” “I haven’t answered him. Give me time. Whatever I decide, it’s not going to be an easy decision.” She stood and walked into his space. She went up on her toes and brushed her mouth across his. “I love you, too. I don’t want to hurt you.” Dirk took hold of her shoulders and sat her back from him. “We made no promises to each other. You don’t have to feel guilty. Go with your heart.” He turned to go downstairs. “What will you do?” “I’ll take my time and look for someone who wants my dream. Love doesn’t last when the two people are wanting separate futures.” He hurried down the steps and out of the house. He swung onto his horse and galloped off. Right this minute, he needed privacy. And he wanted the rush of the wind, and the pounding of a good horse under him. He pushed the emotions trying to strangle him and the thoughts he couldn’t deal with deep inside him. The north fence needed some repair. Hard work would keep both away.

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**** Chelsea sat back in her chair. Damn, she’d hoped to have time to think about how to approach him regarding her call. Things had certainly come to a head. He’d laid the ring on the side of the desk. She picked it up and slipped it on her finger. The fit was perfect. But she had no right to wear it. Not until she knew she could say yes to him. She’d made up her mind to notify the outside world she was truly alive and had gone to the loft to call her boss. The whole conversation ran back through her head. “Hello, Bruce, this is Chelsea.” “Where in the hell have you been? I’ve been worried, and so have others.” “I’m sorry, but I wasn’t ready to talk with anyone, not even my boss.” “And you are now?” “You mean talking about what happened? I can only give limited information to protect the ones who rescued me and took care of me afterward.” “Humph. You’re a reporter.” “But I do have a private life.” “How are things, Bruce?” she had asked, hoping to get him on another subject. “No one has a private life anymore. You know that. We’re doing all right. But we miss having you out in the field. You have a special way of getting the gritty stories and delivering them.” A compliment from Bruce was rare. Chelsea had been surprised at the quick change in his tone. “I want you to meet with me here in New York,” Bruce had said, continuing with his conversation. “I have two offers for you. One is of course to go back overseas. I realize you might not favor that idea. The other is to be in charge of our overseas department here

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stateside. You’d do some stories on the evening news, check others, set up for reports. You know the game.” “I appreciate the offers. Let me get back with you. I need to give the two some thought. I’ll call you.” “If you’re interested, be in my office by tomorrow afternoon at three. You’ve been gone long enough.” As usual, he had abruptly hung up. And then Dirk had come up the stairs. He’d heard enough to know she’d been offered a good job. Her dream job. She had no desire to go back to where the battle raged. But to be in New York and in charge of the foreign news department had been another dream of hers. She’d be on the news occasionally and be in contact with her friends and colleagues still working in the fray. But had her dreams changed? Dirk was right. She’d enjoyed these past weeks. They’d been happy, and she did love him. Was her love strong enough to turn down the New York job? She wouldn’t know until she went there and talked with Bruce. She’d get a feel for the job and see how she felt about Dirk when they weren’t living and sleeping in the same bed. Chelsea called the nearest airport and made a reservation. She’d ask Lily to drive her. She’d leave a note for Dirk. She wasn’t ready to give him an answer. Not yet.

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Chapter Fourteen Dirk had expected to find the house empty. The silence echoed in his ears. He’d deliberately worked late. Taking the stairs two at a time, he went to the loft. Her scent still lingered in the air. Moonlight shone through the window. He flipped on a light, and a sparkle on the desk took his breath away. He had to sit. Under the ring was a note. My darling Dirk, I wish I could make this decision instantly, but it wouldn’t be fair to you or me. You deserve a woman who can give you her total commitment and love in being a wife and mother. Funny, a few weeks ago this would not have been a hard choice to make. I was still determined that the country life was not for me. You showed me how it could be so much better than what I’d had as a child. I have been happy. I like your family, and Lily and Ty have become friends. But I must go and talk with my boss. I must see what this job involves, and then I’ll know what to do. I’ll understand if you show me to the door should I return. Please don’t hate me. Love, Chelsea. Dirk hadn’t cried in years. He blinked his eyes and tried to swallow the lump in his throat. Flipping off the light, he sat in the darkness. “Hello, anyone home?” Ty called out from below. “I’m here. I’ll be right down.” Dirk took a deep breath and squared his shoulders. He forced himself to stroll down the steps and into the kitchen. When he saw Ty, he tried to smile.

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Ty held up a six-pack. “Lily took Diana and is visiting a friend. I thought we’d have a cold one.” “You’re a terrible liar.” “Yep, I always was.” He handed a beer to Dirk. “Want to talk?” “Not unless it’s about the ranch.” Dirk opened his bottle and took a deep swallow. “We can do that, and maybe you can tell me about Rand’s visit.” “What, did you have someone tracking me today?” “You can’t keep secrets from me, your buddy.” “Apparently, I can’t.” Ty talked about the ranch, and he asked Dirk questions, forcing him to be involved in the conversation. Six beers later, Ty stopped talking. “I never knew I could talk that much.” “I didn’t know you could, either. Don’t do it again. You wore my ears off.” Ty got up and started to the door. “I’ve got to get home.” “Ty.” He turned around and looked at Dirk. “Thanks.” “What, for chewing your ear off? You’ve got to be kidding.” He grinned and waved, then strode to his truck. Dirk locked the door, went to his bedroom, and stared at the bed. Maybe the buzz from the beer would help relax him and he’d sleep. He wondered if she’d gotten to New York all right. She was a big girl. He had to learn to stop worrying about her. Right. Maybe sometime in the next fifty years. **** Chelsea had arrived late, got a hotel room near the office, and fell into bed. Several times she was tempted to call Dirk. But what could she say? No. She’d wait until she knew her mind.

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She’d hoped to sleep late and be fresh when she saw Bruce, but she’d tossed and turned most of the night. When she did dream, the dreams matched her confused thoughts. At six she gave up and showered and dressed. It was a good time of the morning to walk the streets. She’d worn jeans and a light sweater. The city was already noisy and getting crowded. Horns honked, taxi drivers yelled at each other, and people’s feet clacked on the sidewalks. The level of noise after the ranch was earsplitting. Chelsea had always loved the city, the busy bustle, the quick rhythm. Unsettled, she slipped into a coffee shop and bought a sweet roll and a fancy coffee. Neither were something she usually indulged in. A woman sitting two tables down kept staring at her. When she got up to leave, she came by Chelsea’s table. “You’re Miss Pearce, aren’t you?” Chelsea shrugged. “I am. I’d appreciate it if you didn’t bring anyone else’s attention to me.” The woman had dark hair with streaks of gray, and kind, blue eyes. “Don’t worry. I won’t. I love your reports from overseas. Most of the time you included stories that touched my heart and made me realize what was really going on. I’m sorry about what you must have gone through, but I hope we’ll see you on the news again soon.” She smiled and walked out. Her words had been heartwarming. Chelsea much preferred to hear her audience appreciated her work than her boss. She finished quickly for fear someone else would recognize her and not be as nice. She didn’t want a lot of questions. Retracing her steps, she arrived back at the hotel. She’d left a message for Bruce to let him know she was in town. When she went in her room, she saw the light on her phone blinking. She pushed the button. “Where are you? You must not have your cell phone on. Since you’re here, come on in at noon. We’ll have lunch.” That was Bruce, no hello or good-bye. She had to smile. He

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hadn’t changed, and never would. It was ten. She’d change clothes, and then go to the company’s building. There were old friends she’d like to see before she talked with Bruce. Cool air greeted her when she opened the big doors into the office building. Marble floors, soft music, and lovely bouquets of flowers gave a pleasant ambiance to the lobby. Large, brown leather chairs were scattered around the room, and many of them were occupied. Chelsea went straight to the elevator and up to the sixth floor. As soon as she stepped out onto plush, tan carpet, several people glanced her way and came over to greet her. Soon there was a crowd around. It took twenty minutes for her and her good friend Marian to separate themselves and go to Marian’s office. Marian closed the door and gave her a hug. She stepped back and looked at her up and down. “You look great. And you have a tan. I’m so glad to see you doing well.” “I’ve been well taken care of.” “I hope it was a hunky man that made mad passionate love to you every day. Tell me there is some hope that my dream exists?” Chelsea had to laugh. They’d often spent evenings together when Chelsea was in town. She’d stay at Marian’s apartment, and they’d finish off a bottle of wine talking about men and sex. “Actually, it was a gorgeous cowboy who took care of me.” “Oh,” Marian put her hand over her heart. “One of our dreams has come true. When is the marriage? Surely, he couldn’t resist you.” Chelsea shook her head at Marian’s theatrical behavior. One of the reasons she liked her so much was that she made her laugh. “Can we sit?” Chelsea asked. “Of course. I want to hear all.” “There are a few problems with my happily ever after.” “He doesn’t love you?” “Yes, he does. He asked me to marry him.” “Wow, and wow again. What’s the problem?” “Me. Bruce has offered me two great opportunities. The one I’m

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interested in is here in New York. I’d be in charge. Do some evening news reports etcetera, etcetera.” “Mr. Wonderful doesn’t like the idea?” “No. He wants a wife, a mother for his children, to build a home together. He has a beautiful house, wonderful family and friends. The only negative is my job.” “And the promotion you’ve been waiting for all these years.” “You’ve got the picture.” “If you want advice, I can’t give it. What would be right for me wouldn’t necessarily be good for you.” “I guess I wanted to verbally bounce it off a friend. I knew you wouldn’t try to make up my mind.” Chelsea glanced at her watch. “I’m due upstairs. He’s wining and dining me for lunch.” “Come to my place tonight. After a bottle of wine we can usually solve the problems of the world. Certainly we ought to be able to help you with yours.” “It’s a date. I’ll bring pizza.” “I have the wine.” Chelsea waved good-bye and went to the elevator. Up two floors, and she was in the executive suite. After her talk with Marian, she was relaxed, freer, ready to tackle Bruce and hear his ideas. His secretary smiled at her. “Go right on in. He’s expecting you.” “Thanks.” Shoulders back, Chelsea strode across the carpet and into the lion’s den. **** Chelsea knocked on Marian’s door. The pizza was hot and smelled delicious. “There you are. Come in. I was just opening our wine. How does a glass of merlot sound?” “Heavenly. I’m starved. Let’s eat the pizza and drink our wine while we talk.”

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Marian grabbed napkins and paper plates while Chelsea set the pizza box on the large, low living room table. She lifted the lid and the fragrance permeated the small apartment. “Here are the napkins, plates, and two glasses of wine. Let me get the bottle, and we’re ready for a gab fest.” When she returned, they both sat on the floor and grabbed a slice of the aromatic pizza. After two pieces and a glass of wine, Chelsea leaned back against the couch. “This is like old times. I’ve missed you.” “And me you. But tell me what happened today.” “Bruce took me to one of the best restaurants, and gave his pitch. “What did you think? Did you accept?” “I agreed to a short interview on the morning show. No significant details, to protect the innocent. Then I’ll talk to the man who’s leaving the position. He wants an answer by tomorrow afternoon at five.” “Not much time to settle what you’re going to do with the rest of your life.” She studied Chelsea. “Do you have any idea what you’ll say?” “I walked the streets this morning. Do you realize how loud it is out there?” “Of course. You said you always loved the buzz.” “Guess I spent too long in the country. I got used to the soft sounds of nature, the slower pace. Isn’t that crazy? Me, liking a slower pace.” “He must be some guy. Tell me about him.” She did. She closed her eyes and pictured Dirk. When she finished describing not only his looks, but the type of man he was, Marian reached across and poured them another glass of wine. “I’m not sure this drink is cold enough to put out the fire. Honey, he is too good to be true.” Chelsea told her of the first proposal and the second. “This is the last. It’s all or nothing. Career or cowboy husband, how can a woman

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choose?” “A small, lonely apartment, early mornings in to work where you seldom get a compliment for your extra efforts, and then back home to that apartment. Occasionally, you get a date. He’s usually a mother’s boy, or a man on the hunt, but not for commitment. Then there’s the suitor who wants you to take care of him financially.” “It can’t be that bad. Have another glass of wine.” “Chelsea, we’re thirty. Our biological clocks are running out and our chance to find the men of our dreams is probably one in a thousand or more. You have hit the jackpot and can’t decide to take your winnings. There, I’ve said too much. Got to stop the wine.” “No. In many, ways you’re right. I hated the country because of the way my dad treated my mom and me. I decided all cowboys were the same. My brother was headed that way. Low and behold he’s met an independent woman, and she has brought him around.” Marian changed the subject, and they discussed mutual friends and enemies. They laughed a lot, and they finished the bottle. “Don’t go. Sleep here tonight. I’ll wake you in time to take a taxi to your hotel and change before the show.” “It’s a deal.” They opened the couch and Chelsea fell onto the bed and went instantly to sleep. An irritating alarm awoke her. She rushed out, got the cab, and made it to the hotel in time to shower and change. The makeup woman was waiting for her when she arrived at the studio. **** Dirk was in a lousy mood. He’d finally given in and tried to call Chelsea last night. He’d guessed she’d stay at the hotel closest to her job. Her room phone rang and rang with no answer. He didn’t leave a message. He made a cup of coffee and flipped on the morning news. The coffee was hot and black. He’d need the caffeine to keep him going

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today. He’d reached for his hat when he heard Chelsea’s name. There she was smiling from the television. His heart gave a lurch. She looked beautiful, sophisticated, and articulate. Without giving much information, she assured the audience she was well and strong. She praised her rescuers, but refrained from giving any details. It was a short spot. The interviewer mentioned the two soldiers who had been with her survived. Dirk clicked the television off and stomped his way to the barn. She wasn’t coming back. He might as well learn to live his life without her. She was perfect in her world. She didn’t need his. He’d been a fool to risk his heart again. He swung up onto his stallion and took off across the prairie. Fresh air blew in his face, and the thundering hooves were music to his ears. He’d forget her. This was his world, and if he gave it up, he’d grow to resent her. He understood her decision. He just didn’t like it.

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Chapter Fifteen Chelsea had talked to the man about what she’d be doing on the new job. She’d left the building at eleven and walked the crowded streets. People hustled by her. She barely noticed. Her mind was full and aching. She took a taxi to a small, favorite eatery and had a greasy sandwich and fries with a tall glass of tea. The food was great. She went to Central Park and rode on one of the horse-drawn carriages. The park was green like home, but there were no mountains. She wondered what Lily and Diana were doing today. Had Dirk been eating with them? Had he remembered to water her new garden she’d planted last week? When she got out of the carriage at the gate, she walked along the sidewalk. The noise and people didn’t jangle her nerves as much as they had yesterday. She stopped at an outdoor cafe and ordered tea. Mentally, she envisioned herself living here, doing her job, meeting friends for a drink after work. She’d have the opportunity to meet the famous and well known. Her dad would finally have to admit she’d made it. Her thought startled her. Had all her fiery determination been so she could finally say, “See, I’m important. I make lots of money. I don’t need a man.” Chelsea’s heart jumped. Her thoughts cleared. She knew what and who she wanted. She didn’t need a man, but she loved one, and she wanted to spend her life with him. Fear hit her in the chest. What if I’m too late? She’d paid for her drink. Jumping up, she flagged a taxi and went to tell Bruce no thank you. Using her cell phone, she made

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reservations to leave in three hours time to go home. Bruce raised his head when she walked in. “I wasn’t expecting an answer so soon, but this is good. We can get right to work.” “It’s not the answer you’re expecting, Bruce. I’m going home to Montana to marry the man I love.” “Are you crazy? You’ve been telling me for years you wanted this job.” Chelsea grinned. “I’m crazy in love.” She hurried out of his office, went down two floors, and knocked on Marian’s door. Marian took one look at her face. “Can I be a bridesmaid?” “You can be maid of honor. I’ll let you know the date. I just hope I didn’t take too long making up my mind.” “What happened to help you decide on him?” “I couldn’t visualize my life without him, and I like the country better than the city.” “Sacrilege, my dear girl,” Marian teased. “I know. See you soon.” On the way to the airport she tried to reach Dirk again. No answer. A heavy feeling settled in her chest. She tried Ty’s number. No one was home. Something was wrong. Her anxiety and fear built, and the plane ride seemed like the longest she’d ever taken. When she came through the gate, his mother was waiting. “How did you know to meet me?” “I called your boss and got directed to a nice lady named Marian. She told me your flight.” Mrs. Brodie walked her quickly to the car. Chelsea was afraid to ask where Dirk was. But she had to. “What’s happened?” “Dirk went riding hell-bent across the prairie. His stallion saw a snake and reared up on his hind legs. Dirk wasn’t paying attention and fell off.” “Is he dead?” “Oh my goodness, no. I didn’t mean to scare you. He took a hard

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lick on his head, but the doctor said he was lucky. He’s fine. I took him home from the hospital after he was checked. He’s irritable as a hornet. I don’t usually get involved in my boys’ lives. But you two seemed to fit. I was going to call you, but then I found out you were headed this way. Do you mind coming to my house and talking with him? He’s really all right, just ornery.” “His horse?” “He’s fine, too. He went back to the barn. Ty had come to the house looking for Dirk. When he saw his horse, he got a search team together to ride all across the prairie. They found him pretty quick. He hadn’t gotten far.” “I love him. I came back to accept his proposal, if he’ll let me. I feel terrible about all this grief I’ve caused.” Mrs. Brodie took hold of her hand. “There isn’t any blame. Dirk’s a good rider, but he wasn’t paying attention. I don’t blame you. I’d rather you’d look at all your options and come to him with a whole heart. He did tell me you’d left, and that you’d had two good job offers.” She patted Chelsea’s hand. “You two will be good together.” “You think he’ll be all right?” “He is all right. He just needs to hear those words from you.” Chelsea nodded. Mrs. Brodie turned into her drive and stopped at the front door. “Down the hall, third room on the right.” Chelsea jumped out and ran into the house and down the hall. She couldn’t wait to get to him and tell him she was home forever. His door was closed. Very quietly, she opened it. Dirk had good ears. “I’m fine, Mom. I don’t need soup, or a sandwich, or anything. I love you, but please leave me alone.” Chelsea pushed the door open all the way. He was turned on his side, facing the wall. “I love you, too.” Dirk rolled to face her. “Where the hell did you come from? Go away. I can’t deal with a woman who can’t make up her mind.”

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She stepped in, shut the door, and clicked the lock. “I’m not going anywhere, ever again, without you. It seems I’ve fallen for a moody cowboy with a bad temper. But I know how to get rid of the temper.” His face showed no emotion. He watched her warily. So he didn’t plan on making it easy for her. Good. Chelsea unbuttoned the top of her shirt. Dirk’s eyes followed her movements as she continued down the row until she shrugged the shirt to the floor. “You said you liked this lacy, purple bra.” She cupped her breasts and pointed them at him. “When we’re married and I’m home, I might not even wear one. Her fingers unfastened the front opening and shook her breasts free, sending the bra to the floor. Standing a short distance from him, she raised her arms and stretched. A shot of golden fire flashed briefly in his blue eyes. “See something you like? But we can’t do anything, what with you sick with a concussion and all.” Chelsea walked to the open window. Cool air came through, and her nipples puckered. Sunlight glowed across her body. She undid her belt and pulled the zipper down on her jeans. Then she slipped her shoes off and took off her jeans and panties in one smooth move. “Ah, the sun feels good on my skin.” His eyes darkened, and his jaw was rock hard. “Get away from the window. Someone might see you.” “What does it matter? You don’t want me anymore. Do you?” The scent of desire hung in the air between them. “So you think you’ve come back to stay?” He gritted out the words. “I’m sure.” “What makes you so certain?” “I had the opportunity to have my dream job or what I thought was my dream. I visualized being in New York and being here. What I hadn’t realized was the job wasn’t what I wanted. Oh, I wanted it, because I could say to my father, ‘I made it. I don’t need a man to take care of me.’ “Stupid me. I was going to pass up my real dream to have the

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opportunity to thumb my nose at my dad.” “You don’t need me. You’re right.” “But I do in a different way. A good way. I love you. I want to hold our baby in my arms. I want the house to be a home for us and our children. I can still write. My novel is coming along pretty well. What do you think? Did I come to my senses too late?” Chelsea strolled to the bedside and ran her finger along his arm. Quick as a wink, he grabbed her and had her in bed under him. His mouth covered hers. His tongue dove inside and tasted and devoured her. His warmth pressed down on her, and his hard cock pulsed against her abdomen. Hot flashes of desire swept to every molecule in her body. Dirk moved his lower half back and forth across her. Her pussy was wet, hot, and ready for his satin-smooth, hard cock to fill her. She managed to get her hand between them and wrapped her hand around his dick. He groaned, and she smiled into his eyes. “I’m not sure we should go any further. It might not be good for you. You’re in a weakened state.” “The hell I am. Does that feel weak?” He nodded to where her hand held him tight. “But coming might hurt your head.” “Hush. Nothing’s going to hurt me. You coming home cured all my aches.” “Wait a moment.” She let go of him, slid out from under, and knelt at the side of the bed. “Will you marry me, Dirk? Be my husband, the father of my children, and my lover forever?” She knew when she saw the teasing light in his eyes what he was going to say. “I’ll have to think about my decision. But you may be able to persuade me.” Chelsea crawled back onto the bed and took his cock into her mouth. She cupped his sac as her mouth went up and down his length. Dirk ran his fingers through her hair.

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“Stop,” he managed to say the word between his groans of pleasure. “This time I want to be inside you and for us to come together to seal our commitment to each other.” He moved her under him and leisurely kissed her body on the way to her pussy. His tongue teased her sensitive nipples, and he suckled her full breasts. Kisses were scattered across her stomach. Finally, he opened her legs and his mouth sucked on her clit. He moved upward, and his kiss cut off her scream of his name. Dirk positioned himself at her pussy opening and plunged in. Her tight pussy walls welcomed him. She met his every stroke as tingles of electricity shot up her spine. Pleasure filled her full like a balloon about to burst. When she did, she felt his hot seed against her womb. “Hope you don’t mind. I forgot all about that condom, but you’re protected.” “I am. But I’m seeing the doctor soon to change that. We’re too old to wait very long to have a baby.” “My exact thoughts.” “Are you all right? Your head doesn’t hurt?” “Maybe a little. I’m sure if we do this treatment one more time, I’ll be all well.” Chelsea raised an eyebrow. “I love you, Chelsea Pearce, and I accept your proposal. It’s about time one of us said yes.”

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Epilogue “I told you we’d have a boy,” Chelsea said as she got into Dirk’s truck. They’d just found out the sex of their baby. Dirk had a wide grin on his face. “I wanted a girl first, but I guess a boy’s all right,” he said. He loved to tease her, and she loved it, too. She’d known he really did want a girl. Still, they’d both agreed the most important thing was having a healthy baby. Chelsea settled in her seat as Dirk started the engine. “I want you to know one important item, Mr. Brodie.” Dirk glanced her way. “Am I in trouble?” “You might be if you don’t agree with me. Don’t think for a minute I’ll have five boys working at having a girl.” “Mom and Dad always said that, and then before we knew it, another baby was on the way.” He smirked at her. “I’ll put three locks on the bedroom door.” “Doesn’t matter. Let’s see, we’ve done it on the kitchen table, the floor, out by the river, most anywhere we were alone. You can’t lock me out of everywhere. But in all seriousness, I’m not sure I could handle six children, either. Let’s start with one and go slowly.” “My exact idea.” **** Four months later “Here he is, your first baby.” The doctor handed the nurse Dirk and Chelsea’s son. She wrapped him and put him in Dirk’s arms.

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“All right, Chelsea, we need to get this second baby delivered. I can’t believe that first sonogram missed this one. That’s what comes of doing the test a few weeks early. And this little one is secretive. Never could tell the sex,” the doctor said. “Ha, we all know it will be another boy. The Brodie bunch tend to beget more males,” Chelsea said, and glanced at Dirk and the baby. “Not that I’m complaining. Ouch!” “Push hard. It won’t be long. Lazy here hid behind the other one most of the time.” After a number of more pushes, their child came screaming into the world. “She has good lungs,” the doctor said as he handed her to the nurse. “Did you say she?” both Dirk and Chelsea asked at once. “That’s right. One of each. You can stop now if you want.” “Wow, first the surprise of twins.” Chelsea eyed Dirk. “You didn’t tell me you had twin aunts. Now we also got our girl. We can stop. We have our family.” “We’ll talk later,” Dirk said with a sly smile. “Here’s your baby girl.” The nurse laid her in Chelsea’s arms. Black hair covered both the babies’ heads. But their girl had lightblue eyes like her daddy. “Let me see our boy.” Dirk took his daughter in one arm and they exchanged babies. “I think he might have green eyes. We’ll see.” She smiled at Dirk. “Isn’t this exciting?” Dirk kissed her. “It’s been exciting, darlin’, ever since you said ‘I do.’”

THE END WWW.PAIGE CAMERON.COM

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Born in Florida, Paige Cameron’s early dreams included being a movie star. Of course, it didn’t happen. Later, she escaped into daydreams full of fascinating stories. Her friends had to endure her reading those tales to them when she began to put them to paper. There were detours in her life for marriage, children, and traveling to foreign countries where her husband’s job took her. She continued to be an avid reader and dream of the day she’d have a book published. She finally got started writing and divorce sidetracked her. Now, happily married to her hero, with grown children, she decided to pursue her dream career, writing.

Also by Paige Cameron Siren Classic: The Earl’s Intriguing Imposter Siren Classic: Scandalous Seduction Everlasting Classic: The Duke’s Blind Temptation Siren Classic: Propositioned by a Lady Everlasting Classic: Wives for the Western Billionaires 1: The Billionaire Cowboy Takes a Wife Everlasting Classic: Wives for the Western Billionaires 2: The Billionaire Rancher Buys a Wife Everlasting Classic: Wives for the Western Billionaires 3: The Billionaire Maverick Bargains for a Wife Everlasting Classic: Wives for the Western Billionaires 4: The Billionaire Cattleman Wins a Wife Everlasting Polyromance: Wyoming Warriors 1: Commando Cowboys Capture Their Mate Everlasting Polyromance: Wyoming Warriors 2: Command Cowboys Rescue Their Bride Everlasting Polyromance: Wyoming Warriors 3: Commando Cowboys Seduce Their Woman Everlasting Polyromance: Wyoming Warriors 4: Commando Cowboys Reclaim Their Love

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