The Billionaire Cattleman Wins a Wife

Wives for the Western Billionaires 4

The Billionaire Cattleman Wins a Wife Lily Yannell is staying temporarily at the Terrell ranch. While there, her heart and body's sensuous response to Ty increases. Ty Terrell doesn't appear to reciprocate the feelings. He still grieves the loss of his wife and unborn son during childbirth, and rejects the emotions Lily stirs in him. When Ty's parents go south for the winter, Ty feels responsible for Lily. He doesn't understand how she manages to frustrate and confuse him. His hair-trigger temper keeps distance between them. Lily believes Ty doesn't like her. When she receives an anonymous phone call, she says it was probably a reporter seeking her whereabouts. She doesn't admit the gruff voice sent chills down her spine. When Lily disappears, Ty is shocked by his true feelings. He calls everyone to search for her. But once they have her back, he plans to send her away. His fear of love and loss are intertwined. Genre: Contemporary, Western/Cowboys Length: 43,351 words

THE BILLIONAIRE CATTLEMAN WINS A WIFE Wives for the Western Billionaires 4

Paige Cameron

EVERLASTING CLASSIC

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

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A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: Everlasting Classic

THE BILLIONAIRE CATTLEMAN WINS A WIFE Copyright © 2012 by Paige Cameron E-book ISBN: 1-61926-328-9 First E-book Publication: January 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 The Billionaire Cattleman Wins a Wife 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 all my friends and family who believed in my dream of being a writer even before it became a reality and who encouraged me all along the way. Thank you.

THE BILLIONAIRE CATTLEMAN WINS A WIFE Wives for the Western Billionaires 4 PAIGE CAMERON Copyright © 2012

Prologue Ty Terrell watched the plane carrying his brother, Brent, and his new bride, Angie, until it took off and was a speck in the distance. He wanted to turn the rental car in and fly back to Montana right now, alone. But his parents were at the Dedricks’ home, where Brent and Angie were just married. Lily Yannell, Angie’s sister, was also there. They all planned to travel back to Montana with him. He took long strides toward the car. Usually, in a few months, his parents would be headed for Florida. His mother’s concern regarding Lily, whose father had just recently been arrested, had made her decide to hold off on going to their winter retreat until much later. His dad didn’t mind. Joseph Terrell loved Montana in all its seasons, but the cold weather was harder on him and Mom than it used to be. Lily would be staying in the ranch house. She stirred him up, and he didn’t like it. How the hell was he going to manage with her just yards away from his cabin? He’d have to watch out for her when the winter hit hard. Montana winters could be dangerous to novices. Frustration, irritability, and something else he refused to recognize swirled around inside him. He shouldn’t have to babysit a woman he didn’t even know and preferred not to.

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He intended to stay far away from the ranch house, as much as his mother would allow. Once his dad and mom left for Florida, it would be soon enough to worry about having to deal directly with Lily. Just thinking about her name brought the vision of her into his mind. Her creamy skin, golden hair, and lilac scent had haunted him from their first meeting. Ty didn’t need or want a woman in his life. Candice had been his first love. He’d lost her and their unborn child. He promised himself he’d never let love in his heart again. He’d never risk the pain he had endured these past lonely years. Never.

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Chapter One Six Months Later Lily Yannell stood at Ty’s side and watched his parents’ jet take off. The sky was clear and blue. It was one of the few days the weather had permitted them to leave. She knew they’d stayed for the holidays to keep her company and keep her spirits up. But when the worst of the cold hit, they decided to head south. She’d grown very fond of Mr. and Mrs. Terrell. Without them, she was scared and vulnerable. Ty had been polite but distant since she’d moved to the ranch. Today was no different. Whereas every time they met, her body got hot and flustered, he was cool and withdrawn. No approach she’d tried had made even a small dent in the wall he’d built solidly around him. “It’s cold out here. I’ll take you back to the ranch house. I’ve got work to do.” She followed his brisk steps to the car. Being only five foot four inches to his six foot two, she had difficulty keeping up with him. He opened the truck door for her, an impatient look on his handsome face. The truck’s heater felt good. She put her gloved hands up to the vent. “You need warmer gloves,” Ty said. “Your mom and dad said the same. I haven’t been anywhere to buy new ones. Your mom told me to use hers, but I might damage them.”

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“Nonsense. Most of her gloves are worn anyway. Don’t be silly. Wear them from now on.” Lily glanced across at him. He’d pulled off his hat and his light brown hair was mussed. She was tempted to reach across and smooth the silky strands into place. As usual his jaw was clenched and his lips held tight. “Why don’t you like me?” He looked in her direction for a second. “I don’t dislike you. I really don’t know you.” “You’ve stayed away from the house. I don’t think you want to become better acquainted.” “I’m busy, especially in the winter. I can’t take time to socialize and leave all the work to my cousin, Dirk.” She’d met Dirk a couple of times. He was a quiet man, but unlike Ty, he smiled easily and had a much more relaxed manner about him. Ty stopped the truck in front of the house and started to get out. Lily reached for his arm, stopping him. “Please, stay where you are. I can manage on my own.” She opened her door. “Would you come for dinner tonight? There’s something I’d like to discuss with you.” He frowned. A muscle in his cheek pulsed. She waited for his answer. “This once, I’ll join you. But don’t expect me every night.” “Of course not. You’re a very busy man.” She smiled and walked toward the house. The biting cold nipped at her cheeks, but it wasn’t any more frosty than the stare she felt at her back. He didn’t drive away until she’d gone in and shut the door. Her hands trembled as she fastened the lock, but not from the cold. She hated the effect he had on her body. With one glance he made her aware of herself as a woman. Her nipples tightened and desire coiled in her abdomen. She didn’t want to be attracted to him. Her mind and body were not in sync. She had enough problems with her father. His impending trial

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hung over her head like a black cloud. The last thing she needed in her life was a stubborn, irritable, handsome, enticing man, filled with grief, to appoint himself her caretaker. She’d set down some ground rules this evening and hopefully get him to agree to let her do some work for the corporation. After all, she had a graduate degree in accounting. She’d seen his cluttered desk and suspected his financial papers might be in the same condition. Taking over the paperwork and accounting would keep her busy. And in a way, it would pay back the Terrells for giving her a safe haven to hide in until after her father’s judicial proceedings were all over. Lily went into the kitchen and surveyed the refrigerator and pantry. She’d better get started on dinner and make it a good one. If the way to a man’s heart was through his stomach, maybe she could soften Ty Terrell up enough for him to agree with her plan. **** Ty arrived just on time. Lily had pulled the roast out of the oven and had mashed the potatoes. She carried the bowl to the table. She’d added a red plaid tablecloth and napkins to make the kitchen more festive. The dining room was too big for two. “It smells almost as good in here as when Mom is home and cooking.” Lily’s heart warmed at his words. His face had a relaxed look for the first time. He’d obviously showered and changed before coming over. His collar-length hair looked soft and shiny. His blue flannel shirt brought out the color of his eyes, and his jeans hugged lean hips and long legs. Her cheeks heated when she looked back at his face. In his eyes she saw a flash of fire. He walked to the table. “You didn’t want to use the dining room?” “It’s so huge for just us. This seemed cozier.” Ty frowned. “We’re here for dinner and you said you had something to discuss. Cozy has nothing to do with us.”

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She never knew what made her do it, but she couldn’t resist the urge. She stepped into his space and looked up at him. “Don’t tell me a big, strong cowboy like you is scared of being alone with a little woman like me,” her voice purred at him. She watched closely for his reaction. When he stepped back and frowned, she had to laugh. His eyes darkened. “What’s so funny?” “You. You’re scared of me.” “The heat in the kitchen must have gone to your head. There’s not a thing left that can scare me.” Sudden sadness swamped her. “No, I guess not. Once you’ve lost someone very important in your life, there isn’t much the world can do to you that can hurt any worse. Sit. I’ll put the vegetables on the table and join you.” Lily never tasted her food. They ate silently, like combatants that had called a temporary truce. Even above the fragrant smells of pot roast and apple pie, his scent wafted across the table, arousing her hunger for him. Her fingers itched to touch his skin. She’d had a few relationships, but only one had been intimate. She’d been disappointed in the experience and hadn’t met anyone since who’d tempted her to let them get close. Why did the first man to arouse such strong desires have to be the one who disliked her immensely? She didn’t know enough about men and desire to answer that question. If only Angie and she lived closer. Angie would answer her questions. “Did you hear from Brent recently?” Lily asked, remembering her recent call from Angie. Ty glanced up from his plate. “He called and left a message to call him back. I didn’t have time before I came here. Why, is something going on?” “He should be the one to tell you.” “They don’t have a problem?” “No, nothing like that.” Deciding it was best to change the

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subject, she asked, “Can I ask you a favor?” His forehead wrinkled. “I guess so.” “I noticed your full desk in your office. Perhaps I might help by doing the paperwork and the accounts for you.” She held her breath, waiting for his answer. From the look on his face, she didn’t expect a positive reply. “You want to do the accounts for our corporation?” Lily nodded her head and stared at his flushed face. “Hell no.” “Why not? I want to do something as a thank-you for staying here. It will take some work off of you.” “I don’t need help. Did you do your father’s accounts?” Ty asked. “No.” “Then you have no experience. Book learning and on-the-job work experience are two different things. Anyway I just do the basics, and then send everything off to my CPA.” “I can do the basics for you. I have a head for numbers.” “So did your dad, evidently.” Ty threw down his napkin and got up from the table. “Thanks for the meal.” He grabbed his hat and stomped out. A rush of cold air blew in before he slammed the door closed. Blinking back tears, Lily cleaned the table. His last snide remark about her father had been like an arrow shot straight to her chest. She might be able to hate him for that remark if she hadn’t seen him wince and the regret in his midnight-blue eyes. Well, that went well. I might have known he’d be too bullheaded to admit he needs help. But why did he have to keep throwing anger and mean words at her? Maybe she had been mistaken. Could she have made a nick or two in that stone wall surrounding him? If so, he’d mend the dent in his armor and made it twice as strong. Ty Terrell had no intention of letting her get close. And she didn’t want to be close. But at least being cordial would be less wearing and not so hurtful. She had to stiffen her spine or by

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spring he’d have drained away what little confidence she had left. That wasn’t going to happen. The discovery of her father’s secret life had wounded her deeply. She had no intention of letting any man close enough to hurt her that way again. **** Ty closed his jacket against the bitter, cold wind and headed to the barn. Dirk raised his head when Ty entered and closed the doors behind him. “Have you been out checking the cattle?” Ty asked. “And our men at the cabin. They’re all doing fine and the cattle have plenty of feed. You look angry as a hornet. Dinner didn’t go well?” Dirk hung up his saddle and began to rub his horse down. “She irritates the hell out of me. She just can’t seem to keep her nose out of my business.” “I’ve never known a woman to bother you one way or the other. That she riles you is interesting.” Dirk grinned. “What the hell are you talking about?” Ty would have liked to knock that grin off his cousin’s face. “Well, seems to me you protest too much.” “Hell, I’m going home. Maybe tomorrow you won’t be talking in circles.” He stormed out and just caught Dirk’s last words. “And maybe you’ll stop running in circles and face her.” Ty started to change his mind and go back to punch Dirk in the nose. Instead, he continued to forge across the path to his cabin. Snow fell in large, soft flakes. A million stars sparkled overhead in the dark sky. The air was cold and crisp. He went inside and lit a fire in the fireplace. As the flames began to flare up, he remembered other cold Montana nights. When he was little, he loved to sit in front of the fire with his brothers. Mom would give them each a cup of chocolate that had marshmallows floating on top. Dad, who was a wonderful storyteller,

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held them spellbound with his tales of the Old West. The wind outside would be howling and blowing snow across the windows, but they were warm and safe and loved. He swallowed around a lump in his throat. What the hell was the matter with him? He wanted to cry, for god’s sake. He hadn’t allowed himself to cry. At least not for a long time. He started into his bedroom when he saw the message light on his phone. He glanced at his watch. It was still early enough to phone Brent. “Hi, Brent. I got your message, but this is the first opportunity I’ve had to return your call. What’s up?” “Angie and I thought we might come for a visit soon. Before long I won’t want her to travel very far.” A knifelike pain stabbed into Ty’s abdomen. He caught his breath before speaking. “Angie’s doing all right?” “She’s glowing. But we’ll be staying close to home until after the baby is born. Look, we thought we might fly to Montana for a visit in a week or so. When the weather gets a little better. Angie hasn’t seen snow in a long time.” “We have plenty of it here. It’d be good to see you guys.” “How’s Lily?” “Fine. She cooked a good meal tonight. We’re all doing all right.” “I’m glad to hear it. I’ll be in touch and let you know exactly when to expect us.” “Good. See you soon.” Ty put down the receiver. Soon he’d have another niece or nephew. He closed his eyes for a moment. Hearing about another child being expected in the family always brought a flashback of the day he’d lost his unborn son. And each time fear crouched inside him until he heard of his nephew or niece’s successful birth. His oldest brother, Drake, had two children already. He loved Drake’s children. Drake’s wife, Janice, was very intuitive. She’d seen

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his concern when she was pregnant. She’d kept in touch, letting him know how well she was doing. After her parents, he was the first person she called when the babies were born. He hated for her to see his weakness and yet loved her for trying to help in her own way. She never said anything about it to him or anyone else. His emotions had drained him. If it wasn’t so cold he’d take Night Star, his stallion, for a run. Instead, he flopped into the large lounge chair in front of the fireplace and stared into the flames. Outside the wind continued to howl and the snow fell faster. He wondered if the wind’s noise kept Lily awake, or if she had snuggled under the covers with only her golden hair shining in the moonlight. His cock hardened and strained against his jeans. His desire to be buried deep in her pussy was too strong to deny tonight. Maybe she’d be open to having a brief fling. They could keep each other warm during the cold winter nights. He’d seen her hunger tonight when she gave him that all-encompassing look. It took all his determination not to grab her and kiss her soft, pink mouth. Damn, she was trouble. Just as he’d expected she’d be. **** Lily had cleaned the kitchen, and then tried to read a book. But after staring at the same page for ten minutes, she decided to go to bed. The empty house seemed cold even with the furnace pumping out the heat. There were shadows in corners. She’d never noticed them when Mr. and Mrs. Terrell were home. She might as well get used to being alone. Her father probably wasn’t ever going to be a free man again. Angie was all the family she had left, and she was pregnant. There’d be little time for a long-lost sister. Stop being maudlin. I have a place to stay and people who care about me. What more could I want? A handsome cowboy with flashing blue eyes and a quick temper

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came to mind. She didn’t need him, but her body wanted him. She had to find another place to live until her father’s trial, and before all Ty’s anger and her hunger caused an explosion. Someone would get hurt, and it would probably be her.

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Chapter Two A week had passed with Ty only briefly stopping by twice to check on her. She’d pretended to be fine, but actually any moment she expected to go running out of the house screaming. She’d never experienced long periods of isolation. The first few days weren’t so bad. But after deep cleaning the whole house, baking numerous breads and cakes, and reading every available book, she’d run out of things to do. She stood in the doorway to Ty’s office. The clutter bothered her. It was the only room she hadn’t cleaned. Well, she hadn’t invaded Mr. and Mrs. Terrell’s rooms. Taking a deep breath, she stepped inside. First, she’d clean out the fireplace. “What the hell are you doing? Can’t I leave you alone for a few days without you invading my privacy?” Ty towered above her. Lily had never heard him enter. She’d just finished sweeping out the fireplace and was starting to stand. Ty frowned at her. He took hold of her arm and pulled her up to face him. “It should be quite evident what I’m doing. I’m cleaning out your fireplace.” “I told you to stay out of here.” “You said I couldn’t do the paperwork and accounting, not that I couldn’t clean this pigsty.” She frowned back at him, putting her face right up to his. His woodsy scent filled her nostrils. She was close enough to see the flash of fire in his blue eyes. His nostrils flared. He was dangerous, exciting, and all male. She couldn’t stop the smile that started at her lips and covered her face.

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Ty’s strong hands grabbed her shoulders and hauled her against his hard body. “What’s so damn funny?” “You shouldn’t use cuss words when talking to a lady,” she said in a low murmur. “You’re just a little girl depending on everyone to take care of you. First your father, and now my parents.” Although not totally unexpected, his harsh words still surprised her. She gasped and tore herself out of his clutches. “I don’t want to be dependent. If you’d let me I can help with your work here in the office. You can double-check what I do,” she snapped at him. Anger directed at him had her breathing hard. He towered over her. His blue eyes stared at her face. He held his jaw so tight she expected to hear his teeth grind. Finally he shrugged, “Do what you please. You’re going to anyway.” He practically ran out of the room. She heard the front door slam, and then silence. Sinking into the chair behind the desk, she gripped her hands tight to stop their trembling. He’d both frightened her and stirred the feelings she thought she’d gotten rid of since he’d been avoiding her. But no, they were just below the surface, ready to come to life when he got too close. Lily didn’t believe he would hurt her. Never. At least not physically, but if she lost her heart to him—she didn’t want to think about that happening. He obviously had no feelings for her, except dislike. The cluttered desk caught her attention. Offhand he’d given his permission, and she intended to accept the offer. He wouldn’t recognize the place the next time he came in here. **** Ty got on his horse and rode out to check the cattle. He encouraged Night Star to fly across the open prairie. Every muscle in

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his body had tightened and his jaw ached from gritting his teeth. The woman drove him crazy. What was the matter with him? Until Candice died he’d never had a temper. But since, it didn’t take much to light his fire and send harsh words out of his mouth. He’d thought he was getting better until Lily arrived. Damn her, she’d upset his life, and he wasn’t happy about it. Streaking across the land he loved, with the cold wind blowing in his face, his muscles finally loosened. He pulled back on the reins and slowed their pace. Under several clumps of trees cattle huddled together, and snow topped the distant mountains. Drake and Brent had settled in Texas, away from the cold winters. But Ty was like his dad. This land was a part of him. He might go on vacation or visit family, but the draw to come home pulled at him before long. Still, it could be lonely. Dirk deciding to join with him had been good for both of them. He’d been closer to Dirk than the rest of the cousins, who had a huge ranch and conglomerate about a hundred miles away. He hunched his shoulders against the wind and rode back toward the barn. Dirk glanced over his shoulder as Ty rode in. He threw another pitchfork of hay into a stall before walking across to greet Ty. Ty had a feeling from the look on Dirk’s face he wasn’t going to like what he had to say. “Saw you riding out of here.” Dirk’s lip curved into a half smile. “Looked like something bad was chasing you.” “Nothing a good ride couldn’t chase away.” “You’ve got it bad.” “There isn’t anything the matter with me that won’t be cured when she”—he nodded toward the house—“leaves here.” “I stopped in after you left. She’s invited us to dinner tomorrow night. I accepted for both of us.” Ty started to speak, but Dirk stopped him. “She’s all alone and not used to it. The least we can do is eat with her occasionally. If she really doesn’t mean anything to you, it

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shouldn’t be a difficult task.” “Whatever, sure, I’ll join you two tomorrow evening.” Ty walked to the barn door. “Just don’t accept invitations for me anymore.” “Sure won’t. I don’t have any problem enjoying her company alone. She’s a pretty little thing.” Dirk’s laughter followed him as he took long strides toward his cabin. **** The front light was on at the ranch house. It was a welcoming sight in the darkness and blowing snow. Ty and Dirk knocked the snow off their boots and rang the doorbell. “Seems funny to be ringing my own bell,” Ty said. When the door opened, Lily stood in the light. Her thick, golden hair fell loose down her shoulders and halfway down her back. She wore a turquoise sweater that hugged her lush breasts, and black slacks clung to slender legs. “Come in.” She opened the screen door, motioned them inside, and then closed both doors, shutting out the winter cold. Inside the heater kept the house warm, and logs in the big fireplace in the living room and dining room were crackling. China plates and crystal glasses shone from the candles lit on the table. “I know it’s rather elaborate, but I thought, why not? It’s a beautiful dining room and lends itself to pretty dishes.” Lily gave the two men an anxious glance. “My mother told my brothers and me early on that we’d just have to learn to be gentlemen, because when she wanted to have a fancy dinner she was going to. When Mom spoke, no one, even Dad, said no to her.” Dirk smiled. “This looks very nice.” Lily’s face flushed with pleasure. “What do you think, Ty?” He’d been taking in the gleaming table settings, and Lily with her pretty clothes and gorgeous hair. His cock had stirred when he first

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saw her. Now, with those chocolate brown eyes on him, desire socked him in the gut. “Looks good and smells good.” “Thank you. Please sit. If you don’t mind I’ll stay at the end of the table so I can have both of you on either side.” Dirk went around and sat with his back to the wall, and Ty sat opposite him. Lily hurried into the kitchen to finish dinner. Then returned and poured them each a glass of red wine, before hurrying back to get the food. Dirk picked up his glass. “To many more dinners with Lily.” Frustration eating at him, Ty reluctantly held his glass high. “But not too often.” “I’ll come anytime she asks.” Dirk grinned at Ty. “Alone or otherwise,” he added. Lily brought in the salads. “We’ll have these first, and then the lasagna.” “Wonderful, I love Italian food.” Dirk jumped up and pulled out her chair. “And I must say you look beautiful.” “Why thank you, Dirk.” She gave him a beaming smile. She and Dirk kept the conversation going. Ty would answer a direct question, but stayed silent the rest of the time. “Dirk, tell me about your family and how you ended up working with Ty. That is, if you don’t mind,” Lily said. “My family is big. I have four brothers and a baby sister. She’s grown now, but we still call her the baby to annoy her.” “I’m sure she must secretly love your teasing.” “She does, and she gives it right back to us. Anyway, I’m next to the oldest. My older brother and I have always bumped heads. Then when my dad died about ten years ago things got worse between Clay and me. I suppose he felt he had to take over as the boss. We’d never do well together if I’d stayed at the ranch. I guess we’re both too hardheaded.” “How fascinating. I was raised as an only child, since my mother

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and sister went away when I was very young. It sounds wonderful to have a large family.” Dirk shrugged. “It has up and downs, but I wouldn’t trade my family for anyone else’s.” “What about you, Ty?” Lily turned her attention to him. “Not much to say. You know I have two brothers. My mom and dad were good parents. We had a good life growing up.” “You must miss your brothers, being so far away.” “They made their choice. I made mine.” “But you could sell and join them in Texas,” Lily said. “Nope. This is where I’m staying.” He’d been trying to not look at her. He turned his head and faced her straight on. “I love this land.” “It has to be lonely, since your wife died and—” “I don’t talk about my wife,” he snapped. “But why not? You must have good memories, and talking both helps with the grieving and to remember her in a good way.” There went his anger again, rushing through his veins, pounding in his head. He pushed his chair back, knocking it over. “What do you know about grieving or love? You’re hardly out of the schoolroom.” He leaned his face close to hers. “I’ll tell you about grieving. It tears at your insides and nothing fills the hollow spot, not drinking, nor being with people, or riding fast. There’s nowhere you can escape the emptiness, the regrets, and the pain.” Ty walked out. He took his hat and coat off the rack and strode out the door, walking into the thick fall of snowflakes. **** Lily watched him disappear into the whiteness. Dirk reached around her and shut the door. “Come back to the table. I’ll get the coffee.” He guided her to her seat and hurried into the kitchen. She sat stunned. She’d never expected such an explosive reaction.

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Maybe she should have. Her presence made him unhappy. She lifted her head when Dirk set the coffee in front of her. “Thank you. I never meant to hurt him. I just thought he’d feel better if we didn’t avoid the topic of his marriage. I was wrong. He’s right. I’m no psychologist, so I shouldn’t be meddling.” “Honey,” Dirk said, “you could say tomorrow it might not snow and he’d get riled.” “I know. He hates me being here.” “No. That’s what he tells himself, and presents that impression.” “What do you mean? He’s been angry since the first time I arrived.” “Haven’t you wondered why?” Dirk sat back and looked at her. “Yes. It hasn’t made much sense. And his mother said she didn’t even know he had a temper until after his wife died.” “He didn’t. He’s always been the gentlest, kindest man I’ve known. Maybe it would help to know a little about him and Candice. They were childhood sweethearts, and inseparable from their early teens on.” “Oh, my.” “Yeah. They married early, both went to college here in Montana, and then came home and started their family. She got pregnant pretty quickly. Everyone was excited about the first grandchild. Candice celebrated her twenty-third birthday two weeks before she and her unborn baby died during childbirth.” Tears flowed out of Lily’s eyes and down her cheeks. “How do you recover from such a loss?” “We worried he wouldn’t. Some family member stayed near all the time and watched him. He tried drinking, as he mentioned, and then went wild for a while. He’d date, take them to expensive restaurants and to places to dance. He burned the candle at both ends. He even tried bull riding one season. Somehow he survived and began to calm down, but in place of the grief came a quick temper. Even that was slacking until your arrival.”

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“Do I look like her?” “No. She had black hair and green eyes, and was tall. She grew up on a neighboring ranch. After her death, her parents sold out and moved away. They were devastated. They moved closer to their only other child, her sister.” “I must leave. I’m doing more harm than good being here.” “Please don’t.” Puzzled, Lily frowned at him. “You must see he’d be better without me around.” “Have you ever heard about something getting worse before it gets better?” “I think I know what you mean.” “I believe you’re the catalyst to help him get back to himself.” “I’m not sure I agree.” “You’ll see if you stick it out. I guess I’d better go. I’ve talked way too much.” “Wait. I baked another cake. Please take some with you. The freezer’s full.” Dirk laughed. “All right. You twisted my arm. I saw the chocolate cake on the counter, my favorite.” “Good.” He followed her to the kitchen. She cut him half and insisted he take it. Then she followed him to the door. He put on his hat and coat. “I’ll stop by once in a while to check on you.” “Thanks, I’d like that.” Lily shut and locked the door. She took her time cleaning the dishes and putting them away, doing busy work trying to keep her thoughts at bay. Deep inside, where she hadn’t even acknowledged it to herself, she’d hoped Ty might take a liking to her, might come to desire her. How foolish. She was just, as he said, a baby in life compared to him. And they both had too many personal problems. She had to leave while her heart was still intact. Tomorrow, while they both were

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working, she’d borrow the truck and drive to the nearest town. It couldn’t be that far away. She’d call her friend, Moira, in the morning and ask to stay with her while she found a job. After putting on her flannel nightgown, she went to the window. The moonlight lit the darkness. The snow had stopped. Between the trees, she saw the faint light from Ty’s windows. Turning off her lights, she huddled under the covers and imagined she was cuddling into his strong arms against his hot body. Heat raced through her veins, and deep inside she ached. **** Ty saw her lights go out. He’d been staring out his window at the house. When he first got home, he’d gone to his liquor cabinet and taken out a bottle of bourbon. It was unopened, had been for several years. He’d gotten a glass and started to break the seal, shook his head, and put the bottle back. Then he’d gone to his bedroom closet and pulled out a box of pictures. He kept telling himself he’d get rid of all but a few. He hadn’t. There they were at a barn dance on their first date. Had he ever been that young? They were grinning at each other, love evident in their eyes. He’d been so horny in those days, he kept a perpetual hard-on for her, only her. Right from the first they’d talked of a future together, marriage, college, and then family. No waiting, rush it all along, as though unconsciously they realized their time had been limited. She’d been beautiful in her wedding gown and in her maternity clothes. She’d looked great in anything, or nothing at all. The dark cloud on the horizon had never darkened their days together. If only he’d stayed with her that last day, when she was in labor. She and the doctor had both said to go and work. Come back later. A first baby took hours to get born. Her mom and his had stayed with her.

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He’d left and never forgiven himself. When they called he’d hurried, but he arrived minutes too late. The years had dimmed the pain, but it was still there, waiting inside him, to spring out and attack. As he’d attacked Lily tonight. How dare she try to tell him how to handle grief. How dare she be so beautiful, so full of life, how dare she try to bring him into her sun-filled world. Everything around her glowed, her hair, her sparkling eyes, the air around her. Carefully, he replaced the box in the closet. He went to his storage shed outside, switched on the light, and looked at the piles of things that had been his life. He’d marked each box with what was inside. Maybe he’d call her parents tomorrow. He’d ask how they were, and see if they’d like to have some of the items he had packed away. It was a big step. He wasn’t sure he could take it.

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Chapter Three Moira had been happy to hear from Lily and was glad to have her come to California for a visit. Lily packed one small bag. Later, she’d have the rest sent to her. It was ten o’clock. Ty and Dirk would be off working somewhere on the ranch. She stepped out into the cold. No snow fell, but the ground was covered and there were patches of ice on the porch. Lily took her time trying to miss the icy patches. The roads on the ranch had been cleared early. She’d heard the snow plow. Ty had left his keys in the ignition. When the truck started, she noted it had a full tank of gas. Good, she wouldn’t have to worry about getting struck on the side of the road. She backed up and started down the two-lane road leading to the entrance and onto a two-lane blacktop. Lily had taken a map she found in Ty’s office. The nearest town looked to be about thirty-five miles away. Hopefully she could get a bus out of there to a city where she’d catch a plane. She had a long trip ahead of her. In the rearview mirror the ranch house gradually faded in the distance. A tear trickled down her cheek. Ahead of her the future looked bleak and lonely, but she had her pride. She’d stand on her own, find a job, make her way. She’d show Ty. As she turned onto the blacktop her confidence rose. She could do this. She’d left a message for Ty about where to find his truck. He’d be pissed. That was all right. He stayed angry most of the time. Ten miles, fifteen, nothing around but open prairie and mountains in the distance. Hopefully she was going in the right direction. There hadn’t been any signs.

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She never saw the patch of ice. The steering wheel was useless. She tried to correct the slide, but the truck went hard to the left and hit a snow-covered bank. The air bag released and hit her face and chest. She hurt from the force of the bag. Steam rose from the radiator, and her purse had fallen under her feet. Struggling around the steering wheel, she managed to get the purse. It was open. The better to reach her phone if needed, but now the phone was gone and she didn’t know where. The truck was tilted, making it difficult for her to search for the cell phone. Cold seeped into the truck. She zipped her jacket up. Thank goodness she’d worn heavy slacks and socks. Ty would find her. But she wasn’t sure how long it would be before she was missed. He wasn’t going to be happy. **** “I think we’d better head back to the barn,” Dirk said. He glanced at the sky. “We’ll be getting more snow before long.” “Guess you’re right. The guys have it all under control. They’ll be going back to the bunkhouse right after we leave.” Ty turned Night Star toward home. The stallion took off. “You don’t need any encouragement, old boy,” he said and smiled. He felt better this morning. In some strange way last night had been a catharsis for him. He’d called his in-laws early. They’d been happy to hear from him and did want whatever items of Candice’s that he could part with. In fact, they told him they’d be coming to the area to visit friends in a few weeks. They’d pick up the boxes then. He just hoped he didn’t change his mind by that time. Next he had to see Lily and apologize for his temper last night. He wasn’t sure what to do about her and the feelings she stirred inside him. He rode into the barn from the back entrance and took his time rubbing Night Star down. He forked hay into the stall. Anything to put off seeing Lily. Coward. Yeah, he was.

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The first thing he noticed when he walked out toward the house was his truck wasn’t where he’d left it. He glanced around and realized it was gone. Taking long strides he hurried into the house calling Lily’s name. Fear had a tight grip on his chest. The place felt empty, and she wasn’t responding to his voice. Taking the stairs two at a time he charged into her room and saw the note. Damn, she’d taken the truck and left. His heart sank. The roads would hopefully be cleared all the way, but there was still ice, and glancing out the windows, he saw the snow beginning to fall. He raced down the stairs and ran to the barn. Dirk had just finished with his horse and was starting out. “What’s wrong?” “Lily is gone. She took my truck.” “We’ll go in mine,” Dirk said. Snow came down harder as they headed down the blacktop road. “With my snow tires and the four-wheel drive we should be able to get through to her and get back before it starts snowing harder. That is, if she hasn’t been gone too long.” “I’m afraid she left right after we did this morning. This is probably a fool’s run. She’d be in town by now, and maybe on a bus headed farther south.” “I doubt the buses are running. We’ll catch her.” Ty’s heart beat double time. He had a bad feeling. The windshield wipers swished the snowflakes back and forth, and it was looking more like dusk than the middle of the afternoon. “There’s the truck ahead, in that snowbank.” Dirk slowed and carefully pulled to the side of the road. Ty jumped out and rushed to the passenger side. Lily shivered, and her lips were blue. He saw the steering wheel had curved toward her, blocking her movements. She hadn’t been able to reach the emergency supplies on the backseat. “Lily, we’ll have you out of there in a moment.” She gave him a weak smile. “I’m all right, just cold.” Her voice shook.

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Dirk and Ty fastened a chain to the back bumper, pulled the truck away from the bank, and then between the two of them pried her door open. Working with the seat latch, they both pulled until there was enough room to get her out. Ty carefully picked her up in his arms and put her on Dirk’s backseat. He climbed in and knelt by her. “We can worry about my truck later. Let’s get her home. I’ll contact the doctor to come see her.” “You think he’s out and about?” Dirk asked. “He will be. Do you hurt anywhere?” Ty asked as he put two blankets around her. “My whole body aches, but I don’t think I’m seriously injured.” Her body kept shaking. “Move over just a little,” Ty said. He scooted onto the seat and wrapped his arms and legs around her. Gradually his body heat slowed her tremors. “You’re safe now.” “Until I get to the ranch and you holler at me for wrecking your truck.” “I’ll let you recover first,” he said and grinned. She stared at him. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you smile. You should do it more often.” She closed her eyes and snuggled closer. He heard Dirk chuckle and say, “She’s right, you know.” Ty didn’t respond. Her sweet breath on his neck, her soft body curved into his, the fine strands of gold lying on his arm had his body burning with heat and his cock hard as a rock. He moved, hoping she wouldn’t notice. He was probably safe. Her even breathing indicated she was sound asleep. What if they hadn’t found her soon enough? She’d have died of hypothermia. He moved to get to his pocket and flip his phone open. She stirred then settled back down. “Doc, this is Ty Terrell. I know the weather is bad, but could you come to the ranch? Our guest had an accident in my truck and sat in the cold for quite a while before we found her. We’re headed to the ranch house now.

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“Right, you’re at the Dickenses’ place. Good, that’s not far. Sure, you can stay the night if the weather gets worse. Yeah, I know the wife wants you home if possible. See you shortly.” He snapped the phone shut. “He’s coming?” Dirk asked. “He’s not far. Mrs. Dickens just had her fifth unexpectedly at home. Once he gets her and the baby off in the ambulance, he’ll head this way.” When the truck stopped, Ty woke Lily. “Put your arms around my neck.” She sat straight. “I can walk.” “Perhaps, but I intend to carry you.” Frowning, she did as he said. “Has anyone told you you’re very bossy?” Dirk laughed. “Not to his face, anyway.” He came around and opened the door. He walked ahead of them to open the house door. Ty strode by him and started up the stairs. “How about making some hot chocolate for her?” “Since you asked so nice, I will.” Ty carried her into her bedroom and sat her on the side of the bed. “I’ll help you undress, and once the doctor checks you over, I’ll run you a hot bath. If nothing serious is wrong and it’s just stiff muscles, the heat will help ease the soreness.” He unzipped her jacket, pulled it off, and started unbuttoning her shirt. Her hands pushed at him. “I don’t need help undressing. Stand back.” He glanced at her small hands. “You don’t really think you can stop me?” he asked. “You are a gentleman. Your mother brought you up right. When a lady says stop, you do it.” “That’s unfair bringing my mother into this. She’d want me to help you.” “You have. Now go away for a few minutes.”

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He backed off. “I’ll be right outside the room. If you need me, yell.” He shut the door as he left. **** Even with all her aches and pains, she needed him, but not in the way he meant. Lying on top of his hard, hot body, smelling his masculine scent, and listening to the beat of his heart seemed like heaven. She hadn’t wanted to go to sleep. She wanted to savor the moments, but her body caved in, and the next thing she knew they were back at the ranch. “Are you all right? I don’t hear any noises.” His deep, sexy voice spoke through the door. “I’m not a loud dresser.” She’d better start changing before he charged into the room. Her clothes were dropped into a pile by the bed. She found a flannel gown in her drawer and pulled a soft, fluffy robe out of the closet. She’d just tied the sash when Ty peeked inside. “I was getting worried.” His gaze took in all of her. He grinned when he saw her bare feet peeking out below her housecoat. “Where are your socks?” She pointed to a drawer. He picked her up and sat her back on the bed. “Wait here.” After he got the socks, he found her slippers underneath the bed. Kneeling, he put the socks on her and placed the slipper nearby. “Can’t I go downstairs?” “Maybe, after the doctor checks you. Lie back.” He pulled the sheet and blanket over her. “Get some rest.” “Yes, Sir.” She saluted him, as she lay against the pillows and let him tuck her in. “I’m going downstairs. When the doctor arrives, I’ll bring him up. Your door will be open. Holler if you need me.” She watched him walk out. His broad shoulders were covered in a blue plaid flannel shirt, tight jeans showed off his good-looking butt,

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and he wore his old boots. He was too good-looking and tempting for any woman breathing. “I can feel you staring,” he said as he left the room. Her face went instantly hot. He was as mercurial as the weather could be. But she’d never seen him like he was today. He’d smiled, and his voice had a gentle tone she hadn’t heard before. She wasn’t fooled. He would still give her hell about the truck, but not yet. For now, she’d enjoy this new side of him. And if he was dangerous to her heart when he was in a bad mood, she was afraid of the effect he’d have on her today. I’ll close my eyes for a second. She let her head sink into the downy pillows. Their voices woke her. They’d just come in her room. “Lily, this is Dr. Neels.” “I hear you had a little accident. Do you mind if I check you over? This young man”—he nodded toward Ty—“won’t give either one of us any peace until I do.” Dr. Neels had white hair and a jolly face. Lily liked him immediately. “I don’t mind. But send him downstairs. He’s not going to hover while you do your examination.” “You’re quite right.” He turned to Ty. “The lady has spoken.” Ty hesitated, then shrugged and went to the door. “I want to talk with you before you leave, Dr. Neels.” “No problem. I’ll get a cup of coffee to take with me. I can’t waste too much time talking, though. The weather is getting worse. I want to get home.” As soon as Ty left, Dr. Neels took out his stethoscope. He listened to her heart and lungs. “Do you hurt in any particular spot?” “No. The air bag deployed and my face burns where it hit and so does my chest.” “You have some skin burns from the bag, and bruises, but your lungs sound good.” He poked, prodded, and moved all her extremities. “Ty gets excited when he thinks someone might be hurt.

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Losing his wife has been rough on him. He seems especially concerned about you.” “He’s afraid his mother will be upset with him if anything happened to me.” “Maybe. My wife and I have hoped he’d find someone to love again. It’s a lonely life out here without a wife. A person needs to have someone to care about and have them care about you.” “How long have you been married, Doctor?” He gave a hearty laugh. “I don’t remember not being married. We met in high school, married when I came back with my medical degree, and that was thirty years ago. I’m about ready to retire, but I love my work, and I haven’t found anyone crazy enough to take my practice.” He sat her up and checked her back, then had her walk. “You’re going to be fine. Achy and sore, but I’ll give you a few pills to relax those muscles. In a day or so you’ll be as good as new.” He reached in his satchel and handed her a packet of pills. “Take one every twelve hours for the next day or so, until the soreness is gone.” “I never dreamed there were doctors who still made house calls and carried pills with them.” “In the winter I have to be prepared. The weather can make it difficult for folks to get into town for a prescription, so I carry a few medicines for the most common ailments I might see. I’m going to go get that cup of coffee and go home. You call me if any problems arise.” “Thank you, Doctor.” Dr. Neels smiled and waved as he left. She listened to his heavy footsteps going downstairs and heard Ty’s deep voice greeting him. As she expected, it wasn’t long before Ty came to see her. “Dirk sent this hot chocolate for you. Drink it while I get your warm bath ready.” She took the cup and sipped the sweet chocolate. A marshmallow floated on top. “I’m only going to obey you when it’s something I want to do,” she said as Ty headed to the bathroom. Ty turned and

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gave her a slow, sensuous smile. Her toes absolutely curled. She sighed when he went on in, and she heard the water start to pour into the claw-footed bathtub. Ty returned and knelt to remove her socks. He started to lift her in his arms. “I can walk, undress myself, and drink my chocolate. You’ve been very sweet, but I can handle it from here.” “Are you sure you want to?” His husky tone sent a shiver up her spine. She stared into his blue, blue eyes, while the air shimmered with electricity. “I won’t make love to you, at least not today when you’re tired and sore. I’ll help you bathe and give you a massage. And another day we’ll make love.” His words flowed inside her, filling all those aching spots with heat and hunger, making her yearn for his touch. “You are a very dangerous man when you’re being nice.” “I’m more dangerous when I’m not nice.” His eyes sparked with fire. His firm jaw and beautiful mouth tempted her to touch him, kiss him. “Shall I stay or leave?” “Look, guys, I’m going to head for my cabin.” Dirk spoke from the open door. He glanced from one to the other. “Sorry, guess I interrupted. See you.” His footsteps receded, but he’d broken the spell. Lily took a deep breath. “As I said, I can handle it now. Thanks for all your help.” Ty nodded and backed out of the room. Laughter lurked in his eyes, and his lips curved into a soft smile. He closed the door behind him. Lily took off her robe and went into the bathroom. There she removed her gown and socks, then kicked her slippers aside. Sinking into the warm water felt like heaven. She leaned her head against the high back of the old tub. Yes, Sir, Mr. Ty Terrell was very dangerous to her heart’s well-

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being. She almost hoped he’d get angry again. With his anger between them she could keep herself from caring. Well, from caring too much. She had a feeling Ty knew just what to do to get around her defenses. Outside the window, big snowflakes fell rapidly. Being snowed in with Ty could be exciting. Did she have the nerve to accept his next tempting offer? She had no doubt, once he’d made up his mind, he wouldn’t give up easily.

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Chapter Four Ty paced the floor downstairs. He couldn’t get the thought of Lily in the tub out of his mind. His cock was so hard it ached. Once he’d pushed his anger aside, the desire he’d been denying forged forward. What was it about her? She wasn’t anything like Candice in looks or personality. Candice had grown up on a farm. She knew how to ride, rope a calf, plant a garden. They were equal partners all the way. There was nothing fragile about her, until the end. Had she done too much during the pregnancy? Damn, he couldn’t keep second-guessing himself forever. He flopped into a chair and raked his hand through his hair. He was tired. Tired of beating himself up, of being angry at the world. Being angry took a lot of energy. Lily looked as fragile as the flower she’d been named after, and as delicately beautiful. Her scent drew him to her. He wanted to taste her creamy skin, touch her lush curves, and sink into her hot, moist pussy. Jumping up, he took long strides to his office and stopped at the door. What the hell? His cluttered desktop had disappeared. In its place was a wide, polished working space. The room smelled of lemon furniture polish and cinnamon and apple. His gaze went around the room until he found the pot of potpourri. White curtains hung at his wide window, crisp and clean. All his books had been neatly put away. The wood floor shone in the overhead light and from the sun coming in the window. Hesitantly he stepped inside and walked around his desk, past the bookcases and fireplace to where his old leather lounge chair sat. Even it had been cleaned. The room didn’t feel like his anymore. He

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wanted to go outside and stomp back, throwing mud and water across her perfect floor. A strong desire to throw the neatly stacked papers across the shiny desk surface hit him. His mother would describe his reaction as having a petulant temper tantrum. An unwilling smile curved his mouth. Little Lily had braved the lion’s den. Mom hadn’t had the courage to touch a thing in his office. Perhaps there was more to sweet Lily than met the eye. He intended to find out and have fun in the process. “Do you like it?” A soft voice spoke from behind him. He whirled around. She’d dressed in her fluffy pink housecoat with matching slippers. Her hair was piled on top of her head and held by a large clasp. She looked sweet enough to eat. “What are you doing downstairs?” “I’m much better. The warm bath helped my aches and pains. I was hungry and thought you’d left.” “Go back to bed. I’ll bring you a tray.” “No. I’m not an invalid.” She turned and started to the kitchen. Ty swooped her up into his arms and carried her to the kitchen table, setting her in a chair. “I’ll fix you a meal.” Her eyes followed his movements as he pulled bacon out of the fridge and started it cooking in the frying pan. Next he rinsed a tomato, got lettuce out of the crisper, and began to make bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwiches for them. “Hot chocolate or coffee?” “Hot tea would be good. I’m not a coffee drinker. Did your mother teach your brothers and you to cook?” “Oh yes. We can cook a full meal, if we have to.” “You didn’t answer my question. Do you like your office?” “Doesn’t seem much like mine anymore. A man likes a little clutter.” “A little? You had magazines stacked from two years ago.” “I was going to read them one of these days.” He darted a glance at her. “You didn’t throw them away?”

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“I wanted to, but I didn’t. They’re in a box in your closet.” He flipped the bacon and heated the water for tea. “When we’re snowed in for days, I catch up on my reading.” “It must not have snowed last year then, because as I said, you had magazines over two years old in that stack.” “Did you mess with the finances? I guess you have them arranged so fancy I’ll never be able to understand what’s what.” “I see your ornery mood has returned. You ought to at least say thank you that I saved you from dying of dust-filled lungs.” Ty tried to hold the laugh in, but lost the battle. “What was that?” Lily leaned forward. “Is the world coming to an end? Ty Terrell just laughed. Turn around. I want to see if your face cracked.” That did it. He grabbed her out of the chair and kissed her mouth hard, then softer as she responded by putting her arms around his neck and leaning her body into his hard frame. Her skin was as soft as he’d dreamed, and her scent made him drunk with desire. She ran her fingers through the hair at the nape of his neck, and her tight nipples drilled into his chest. “How hungry are you?” he asked. Her sultry brown eyes stared into his. “Very.” Picking her up, he whirled her around to the stove. “Turn it off.” She reached the knobs and clicked each to the off position. Then he took quick steps out to the stairs and up to her room. He kicked the door shut. No one was going to interrupt this time. When he let her down, her body slid against him. He cupped her face in his hands and ran his tongue across her lips. She opened her mouth, and his tongue swept inside. She tasted like honey, sweet nectar. Her hand ran across his chest, down over his hard abdomen, under his waistband and wrapped around his hard dick. “Feel how hot and hard I am for you. I want to bury my cock in your sweet pussy.”

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**** His raw words heightened her desire. Her heart was pounding and the familiar coil of desire had tightened. His cock pulsed in her hand as he ravished her mouth. The feel of his hard body made her want to tear his clothes off and have his bare skin against hers. She’d never felt this heightened sexually, never knew she was capable of desiring a man to this degree. Ty pulled back and untied the belt holding her robe together. He pushed it off her shoulders and left her standing in her flannel nightgown. “No fair, if you remove an item of mine, I get to remove one of yours.” She undid the buttons to his shirt, exposing a broad chest with a scattering of light brown hair narrowing into an arrow at the waist of his jeans. He let his shirt fall to the floor. “My turn.” He lifted the hem of her gown and in one movement had it up and off. “Ah, lovely.” His warm hands covered her breasts. He leaned forward and kissed her mouth, then along her neck. His tongue made teasing circles as he moved to the juncture between neck and shoulder. “You do taste like sugar candy.” His took a nip at her shoulder, and then rubbed his tongue gently over the spot. All the while his thumbs rubbed and lightly pinched her sensitive nipples. A shudder of pleasure flowed across her body. She unfastened his belt buckle. Then slowly she lowered his zipper and pushed his jeans down. His cock sprang out straight in front of her. Impulsively, she leaned down and licked the salty drop glistening on the head of his cock. Ty groaned and she took him into her mouth. His hands cupped her head. Holding him tight, she sucked on his long cock, moving her head to take him all in and then slowly pulling back. Her pussy tingled, and moisture wet her tiny bikini panties. “Wait.” He wrapped his hands around her arms and pulled her up.

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“I want to come this first time in you.” He curled his finger in her panties and yanked them down. “Step out of them.” He sank on the bed and pulled his boots and jeans off. Then he faced her. He was beautiful, all taut muscles, tan skin, long legs. His masculine scent enticed her to touch and taste him. His eyes had darkened to almost black. A pulse beat in his cheek, his mouth held firm, his jaw clenched. “I want you so bad. I’m going to explode if I don’t bury myself inside you soon.” He picked up his jeans and took a condom package out of his pocket. Lily eyed the condom and him. “You are always prepared?” His gaze connected with hers. “Always. There are two things I don’t intend to ever do again. One, marry, and two, have a child. You need to know all I can offer is a fling while you’re here.” She licked her dry lips and saw the light flash in his dark eyes. “When I leave, that’s it?” “Correct.” He held his gaze steady and took a deep breath. “If you can’t accept those terms, we need to stop now.” “Can you stop?” She moved against him and took hold of his rigid cock. Her finger ran around the edge of the crown. She watched his expression and saw him close his eyes briefly. He swallowed. “I have to stop if you can’t deal with what I’m offering.” The silence went on and on as they stared at each other. Finally, taking a deep breath and mentally crossing her fingers, Lily said, “Fine. I’m not very experienced. You can teach me. Then when I meet the right man, the one who will love me and marry me, I’ll know how to satisfy him.” Her words hung in the air around them. For answer, he picked her up and put her on the bed. He lay beside her. His mouth ravished hers, taking, demanding. His hands, rougher now, ran along her body, kneading, rubbing, and caressing. His lips followed. He suckled her breasts while his fingers found her hidden spot and rubbed her nub.

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Her body was on fire for him. She moaned and tossed her head. In a quick move, he went down on her. His mouth covered her nub and his fingers slipped into her wet pussy. She raised her lower body to meet him and ran her fingers through his silky hair. He licked the moisture from her pussy lips. His teeth razed across her overly sensitized nub. “I can’t stand much more. Go in me, now,” she pleaded. Ty laughed and continued to move his fingers in and out, to lick her most sensitive spot. With one hand he massaged her breast and then pinched her nipple. Waves of heat and pleasure swelled inside her. She screamed her release. Ty put his cock at her opening and plunged inside her hot, wet pussy. Her inner muscles wrapped around him and clenched tight. Another orgasm, harder than the first, swept over her. Moving in and out rapidly, he pushed hard against her womb and yelled out his release. He held there as she pulsed around him. She moved harder against him and couldn’t believe when another flow of aching pleasure starting at her feet rolled across her body. She bucked against him, draining him of all he could give. Ty bent his forehead to hers. Their chests heaved against each other. He rolled to her side, and then off the bed. She watched stunned as he went to the bathroom, came back shortly, threw on his clothes, and strode to the door. He stopped for a second to look back at her. “That was lesson one.” He went out and slammed the door behind him. “Damn you,” she screamed after him. She fell back on her pillow and cried until there couldn’t be any moisture left in her body. Lily had agreed to his terms hoping once they’d been together he’d change his mind. Obviously, she’d made a wrong calculation. But she didn’t intend to give up. She knew it was too late to turn back. Her heart already belonged to him. It had from the start. Only she’d been able to fool herself until he made love to her.

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He’d almost run out of the room. Perhaps Ty wasn’t as unaffected as he’d like her to think. She wanted him, and she was going to fight him for his heart. She planned on winning. **** Ty stopped in the kitchen long enough to clean up. His mom would have his hide if he ever left her kitchen any way but neat. After he left the house, he walked around to the back of his cabin where he’d stacked wood to be split for the fireplace. He picked up the ax and swung. Hard physical labor might help erase that last tempting image of Lily, but he expected it had been seared into his brain. Rosy lips swollen from his rough kisses had taunted him. Her dewy skin glowed, lush breasts with cherry nipples still heaved from her rapid breaths, and golden hair fell in soft curls over her shoulders, caressing the soft mounds. At the juncture of her thighs, her light hair glistened with moisture. It had taken every ounce of his determination and energy to get out of that room. Every cell in his body screamed go back, take her again. His unruly cock still pulsed with the desire to be back in her hot, wet pussy. He stopped cutting wood and took off his jacket. The work and his thoughts had his body heat turned to boiling. Teach her, she’d said. Lessons to help her pleasure her future husband. She was naturally sexy. Her body melted against his. His body wanted to claim her for all time, but his mind knew better. He couldn’t marry again. The fear of losing love was too great, too painful. He’d enjoy her now and let her go in the spring. “You cutting wood for this winter and the next?” Dirk had come up behind him. “Maybe. What about it?” Dirk shook his head, waved, and walked on toward his cabin. “As I said, you have it bad.”

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Ty straightened. “What do you mean?” “Buddy, if you can’t figure that out, then me telling you won’t help.” Dirk strode on his way. “Shit.” Ty wiped his face with his bandanna. He’d go riding on Night Star. Somehow he had to release the tension in his muscles. Get rid of the desire boiling through his veins. He’d thought one time with her would cure him. It hadn’t helped a bit. **** Lily heard the ax pounding, and then silence. She’d showered, made her bed, and come downstairs to a clean kitchen. She made herself a cup of tea and toast. After rinsing her cup and saucer, she took out a roast she had put in the refrigerator last night to defrost. Peeling potatoes and carrots relaxed her somewhat. She turned on the oven and waited for it to reach the proper temperature then put the roast and vegetables in to cook for dinner. Ty’s office door stood open. She’d gathered he wasn’t real pleased about her cleanup job. Tough. She started up his computer and went to work on his horrible filing system. The terminology was unfamiliar, having never worked on a ranch, but gradually the words began to make sense. Painstakingly she worked on each detail, cleaning files that had become a mixture, and making new files and spreadsheets as needed. The ringing phone brought her head up. “Hello?” “You haven’t left yet?” Moira’s voice came across the line. “I’m sorry. I meant to call, but I had a minor accident trying to get to town and had to see the doctor.” “Oh, my gosh! Are you all right? “No serious injuries. Some bruises and aches, but I’ll be fine by tomorrow. Look, why don’t I plan on visiting you in the spring when the weather is better, and I can get out of here?” “Sounds good. I was looking forward to your visit.”

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“How’s the painting going?” “I’ve sold several. The shop is doing well.” “Great. I’ll keep in touch.” “You’d better. And I never said, but I’m real sorry about what happened with your dad. You know you can stay with me whenever, and as long as you need,” Moira said. “Thank you. See you when the snow thaws.” She hung up hearing Moira laughing. “Planning to leave so soon?” Ty leaned against the doorframe. He’d removed his jacket, and his shirt molded across his hard chest. His long, lean legs were encased in old, faded jeans, his hair mussed from his hands raking through it. He looked handsome and dangerous with a glint in his eyes. Her breath caught. “A possible candidate for a husband?” He nodded toward the phone. “Not hardly. Moira is a friend from college.” “Why didn’t you go stay with her?” “I don’t know. Your mother offered. I guess I was confused and frightened and grabbed at the first lifeline thrown at me. I should have. Then you wouldn’t be bothered by me.” He sauntered to her side. The smell of fresh air and man surrounded him. His fingers brushed her hair off her face and trailed down her neck. “Your pulse is rapid, your face flushed, and I smell your desire. Shall we return to the bedroom?” “Yes, yes, yes,” her mind shouted. But she forced different words out of her mouth. “One lesson a day will be enough.” His eyes burned into hers. Leaning down, he brushed his lips across her mouth. “Whatever you say, darlin’. But I’m going to make you regret that statement.” Her pussy clenched and unclenched. She wanted him with every fiber of her being, but she didn’t want a fling. She wanted him to marry her. If that meant fighting the raging desire flooding her

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insides, so be it. Ty turned and went out the door without looking back. Her legs were so weak, she hung onto the countertop. She’d won this round. However, she had a long way to go before winning the whole battle. If that was possible.

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Chapter Five Lily had eaten alone. Neither Ty nor Dirk came around at dinnertime. She’d gone to bed early, took a pill for her aching muscles, and had slept soundly. Outside this morning, the snow blanketed the ground. But no new snow had fallen. The sun tried to peek from between the clouds. She’d slept late, until ten, dressed, had breakfast, and then went to work in the office. Her spirits rose as she worked. She liked to be useful. A noise had her glancing to the doorway. “I suppose your next step is to ruin my filing system?” “What filing system?” “Exactly what I’d expect you to say. I have my own unique way of doing things. They don’t teach individuality in school.” “No, thank goodness, or the world would be in worse shape than it is.” A smile quirked up the corner of his beautiful mouth. “Since I’m your boss, I’m giving you the rest of the morning off.” “I don’t want to be off. I’m enjoying myself.” “You’re enjoying working at destroying what I worked so hard to build.” She loved this teasing side of him. One he’d never shown before. “What shall I do with all this time off you’re giving me?” “Do you ride?” “Like horses? “What else?” “I rode the horses on the merry-go-round as a kid, and once I sat on a mule while the man took my picture and gave it to my

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grandmother.” “You had a deprived childhood. Come with me. Today, you’ll receive your first lesson in riding”—he hesitated and his eyes twinkled—“a horse.” “Really?” She jumped out of her chair, turned off the computer, and walked toward him. “I’ve always wanted to learn to ride.” She let the last word roll slowly off her tongue. Ty hadn’t moved from the doorway. She put her hands on his chest and pushed him back. “Come on. I’m ready.” He let her walk in front of him. His hot stare burned against her shoulder blades as he followed her. “I can’t wait to see your sweet ass on the mare I’ve saddled for you.” His words sent desire sizzling across her nerve endings. She suspected this was going to be lesson one of riding, and hopefully lesson two on loving. **** Ty watched her ass move as she walked in front of him. Her tight jeans hugged her curvy butt. He’d hardly slept last night. Nothing completely put out the fire she’d lit inside him. Not cutting wood, or riding fast and hard for hours. So, he’d planned to teach her to ride and to seduce her in the process. Night Star and Nellie, a placid mare perfect for beginners, were saddled and ready to go. Ty pointed out the parts of the saddle. “When we get back I’ll show you how to remove the saddle and take care of your horse. It’s all part of riding.” “Great. Do we go now?” “You can’t ride too far today, or you won’t be able to move tomorrow. I don’t want you to have to miss either of your daily lessons.” She didn’t respond. She just went to the mare and tried to figure how to get her foot in the stirrup. He chuckled. She was small, dainty,

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and desirable. Walking over, he cupped his hands. “Put your boot in my hands. I’ll hoist you up and you put your leg over the side. Got it?” “Sure.” He helped her, and she settled onto the leather saddle. “It’s really high up here.” “Horses are tall, in case you hadn’t noticed.” Nellie moved, and Lily grabbed on the reins. “Easy does it. Let me show you.” Ty swung up on his saddle and gave instructions on how to use the reins. She was a fast learner. He led her out to the corral and around before letting loose and watching her ride the circular area by herself. “You’re looking good.” Dirk stopped outside the rails. “Ty will have you riding like an old pro in no time.” Lily smiled at him. A flash of unexpected jealousy hit Ty in the gut. “I was hoping to see you both today. I cooked a pot roast and vegetables yesterday. There are plenty of leftovers. I hope both of you will come for dinner.” “Are you having dessert?” Dirk asked. “How about a chocolate pie? I know you said once you loved chocolate.” Dirk flashed her a smile. “I may have to marry you for your desserts.” “Oh, I’m not near as good as Angie. From what I’ve heard, she’s a specialist in desserts.” “Well, she’s taken. I’ll have to settle for second best,” Dirk said, teasing her again. “Time to cut the teasing. She needs to be learning how to ride right now.” Ty frowned at his cousin. Dirk grinned, waved, and headed to the barn. Lily looked at him. “Your face is red.” She tilted her head to the side. “You aren’t jealous, are you?” “Don’t be ridiculous. Come on, I’ll show you another gait and

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how to pirouette.” “What?” “How to turn. Now watch me, and then you can do it.” They stopped after thirty minutes and returned to the barn. Ty instructed her on how to remove her saddle, take care of Nellie, and throw hay into the stall. When they came out of the barn, a wrecker drove up pulling Ty’s wrecked truck. A heavyset, partially bald man got out of the wrecker. “Hi, Ty. You want me to leave it here? I can take it to town, to the garage, to be fixed.” Ty walked around looking at the truck from all angles. “It does look worse than I’d thought yesterday. Sure, pull it on in to town. Tell Rogers to do what’s needed. I’ll be by in a few days.” “Sure thing.” The man climbed back in the cab and drove away pulling the truck. “When I get some money, I’ll pay whatever it costs for the repairs.” “It’s not necessary. Once the truck’s fixed, I’m going to trade for a new one. I’ve been wanting an excuse to get rid of the old thing, but it just wouldn’t die.” “I’ll buy it from you. I need a vehicle. My lawyer is working to get one of the bank accounts unfrozen for me to use.” “That old thing isn’t safe enough for you.” She let the subject drop for now. “Want to see my cabin? I built it myself.” “Yes. I’ve seen your lights from my window. Once I thought I saw you riding off late at night.” “Night Star and I like to ride when it’s dark and quiet.” He guided her past a large storage shed and around a hammock of tall trees. “The cabin’s much bigger than I expected.” She stood back, gazing at both the house and surroundings. He watched her expressions and waited to hear her next comment.

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“I like the cabin and the way you placed it in the center of the trees and shrubs.” “Candice and I had seen too many trees razed to build homes that left the house looking naked and barren. We worked to place the walls where all the windows looked out on nature.” “Did she help you build it?” “Not the outside, but she painted a lot of the interior walls.” He opened the door and ushered her inside. “The furnace keeps the rooms warm, but”—he pointed to the large fireplace taking up most of the left wall—“a fire in the fireplace is nice on a cold night.” Lily ran her hand over the rocks that made up the outside and chimney of the fireplace. “Did you have these shipped in?” “Yes, but from a quarry, hidden in the mountains, not far from us.” “It’s beautiful.” She wandered around the room and looked out several of the windows. Ty showed her the up-to-date kitchen, two bedrooms on one side with an adjoining bath, and on the other side the very big master bedroom. At one end, surrounded by large bay windows, two lounge chairs were arranged with a table between. The view outside showed the wide prairie and the snow-capped mountains. “This must be a gorgeous view in the summer with all the wildflowers.” “Candice loved to sit there and look out.” “You don’t usually mention her.” “You were right. I was being cowardly to not talk about her, and to keep others from verbalizing their memories, their grief.” **** He looked off in the distance. Lily touched his hand. “She must have been an amazing woman for you to have loved her so much.” His eyes were hooded, closed off from her. They stood silently.

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He raised his gaze and glanced around the room. “When she first died, I thought I caught glimpses of her here by the windows, in the kitchen, smiling by the fireplace. And in all those places her scent lingered. I was sure I’d gone crazy.” “Her spirit might have stayed around hoping to comfort you.” Ty shook his head. “I’ve never told anyone about that. She’s gone now. I haven’t seen her or smelled her cologne for several years.” “Thank you for sharing that with me. I’d better go. I need to warm our supper. See you and Dirk around six?” “We’ll be there.” She left him still staring out the windows. Lily suspected he’d taken her to the cabin to make love to her, but the memories were too strong, too poignant. At least he’d been able to talk about Candice. That was a huge step. Entering the kitchen, she put on an apron and went to work on the meal. As she slid the roast into the oven, she remembered his face. She was only twenty-two. She’d experienced the loss of her beloved paternal grandmother. Thank goodness she hadn’t lived to see her son in jail. Discovering her father’s secret life and his arrest had been like losing him, but he was still alive. She was in uncharted waters when it came to dealing with a person who had a loss like Ty’s. Ty’s wife and his unborn child had been taken away unexpectedly and had left him devastated. She hoped she wasn’t doing the wrong thing to try and get him to love her. To have him reach out to live again. She went to her room and got her cell phone out. The signal was good. Mrs. Terrell had told her they’d had a tower built on the far edge of the property. Lily punched in Angie’s number. “Hi, Sis, when are you and Brent coming for a visit?” “We have to come soon or Brent won’t let me travel. He’s an old mother hen clucking around me since I’ve been pregnant. But I understand. Janice said Drake was the same way. Ty’s wife dying affected them all.

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“Anyway, we thought all of us would come for a long weekend. Brent mentioned it to Ty during a recent phone call. How about next week? We’ll come on Friday and leave late Sunday.” “I’ll check the dates with Ty. He and Dirk will be here soon for supper. I’ll call you later.” “That gives me time to make sure Janice and Drake are free to come then.” “Talk to you later tonight.” Lily snapped her phone shut. She’d have Angie and Janice to give her advice. She needed help. **** “Now’s the time to strike. He’s in jail and his organization is unsettled. No one has taken over the top spot yet. I hired a group to search for her. They think they’ve found her,” Golitsin said. “I don’t care what the authorities believe. She has to know where he has money hidden. He was fairly smart until the end.” “What do you want me to do, boss?” “I want you to call a number I’ve been given. If she’s there we’re going to get her. A little pressure and daddy’s darling will tell us all we need to know. Yannell thought he could cheat me and get away with it. He’s going to regret his decision.” **** Dinner went well. Ty, although quiet, didn’t lose his temper once. Dirk kept up a running commentary about his various brothers and sister. Lily put her napkin by her plate. “Why don’t you two go into the den and relax. I’ll bring the pie and coffee to you.” “Thanks, Lily, this meal was delicious. You’re going to spoil us. We’ll help clear the table first.” Dirk stood and pulled out her chair. He and Ty took their dishes to the kitchen and rinsed off the plates

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and silverware before putting them in the dishwasher. “Now go.” She pushed them out the door. “Your mothers trained you well.” She enjoyed hearing their laughter as they walked down the hall. She’d just turned back to pour the coffee when the phone rang. Would Ty get it? She waited a second and picked up the receiver on the third ring. “Lily?” an unfamiliar voice asked. Stunned, she hesitated. Who could know I was here? Is it a news person? She’d started to put the phone down when the man added, “We know where you are.” She dropped the phone into the cradle. A cold shiver went down her spine. There’d been something sinister in the tone. Pulling herself together, she poured the coffee and prepared a tray with the pie and coffee for the three of them. “Let me help you carry that,” Ty said. He stood in the doorway. “It is a bit heavy. Thank you.” “Was that Mom and Dad on the phone?” “Oh no, I’d have had you speak to them.” Lily started to turn away. Ty stopped her. “You’re upset.” “Just startled. I think the news people might have located me.” “Why?” Ty frowned. “It was a man. He asked if I was Lily.” “You’re probably right. They never give up hunting when they want to find a person.” He took the tray and waited for her to precede him to the family room. She hoped they were right about the caller, but she doubted it. The man had a harsh tone to his voice and a slight accent. But why would anyone else want to find her?

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Chapter Six “Shall I tell Angie it’s all right for them all to come next weekend?” Lily had just told Ty and Dirk about her earlier call to Angie. She’d pushed the more recent phone call to the back of her mind to think about later. They had settled in the family room where they had eaten their dessert and were finishing their coffee. “I’m going home for the weekend,” Dirk said. “Mom’s been after me to spend more time with the family. But I’ll ride over Sunday, if I can get away early, and say hello.” “Next weekend will be fine with me. It will be good to see Drake and his family and Brent and Angie,” Ty said. “The weather’s too cold for cooking outside. The meals will all be on you.” He nodded to Lily. “But we can plan on roasting marshmallows in the fireplace, and Mom has an old popcorn popper that can be used in the fireplace. Drake, Brent, and I always loved to pop the corn that way when we were small.” “I don’t mind the cooking. Angie and Janice both like to cook. They’ll help. It’ll be fun.” She smiled at Ty and Dirk and was surprised to see a relaxed, open smile on Ty’s face. He really did look different without his usual scowl. Excitement and happiness warmed her heart for the first time since she’d left home to find her sister. With all the events that surrounded her and Angie’s reunion, she’d had mixed emotions. Finally Lily was beginning to be thankful and happy she’d found Angie. “Another good meal and good company,” Dirk said. “I’m heading out to my place. See you two tomorrow.” He kissed Lily’s cheek. “I

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think I’m going to adopt you as another sister.” He winked at her and strolled out the door. She heard the front door shut. The wind howled outside the windows, but inside the fire cast a warm glow on the walnut walls. Ty threw another log on and flipped a switch to turn on the music. A soft instrumental tune floated through the air. He closed the curtains shutting out the dark night, and sat on the thick rug in front of the fireplace. “Join me?” He patted the spot beside him. Lily’s heart lurched at the warm smile he gave her. She hesitated. “I won’t bite. I promise. Or at least not too hard.” His dark blue eyes sparkled in the firelight. Oh, she was so lost. Her body yearned for the touch of his hands, his mouth, all of him lying against her. She rose and stepped toward him. His gaze sent her temperature higher than the heat from the fire. A swirling, hot hunger just for him ran riot through her veins. When she got to his side, he put out his hand. “Come on, darlin’. Let me make love to you.” His husky voice weakened her legs. She sank onto her knees beside him. He knelt in front of her. “You have on too many clothes.” His fingers brushed her hot skin as he unbuttoned her shirt and let it slip to the floor. Then he unsnapped her bra and flung it aside. His hands cupped her breasts. “You have beautiful, creamy skin. The firelight gives your hair and your skin a golden glow. Your sweet mouth is rosy as a rosebud.” He bent his head and ran his tongue along her lips. She opened her mouth and his tongue caressed the warm interior. Her tongue stroked his, and he groaned. Ty put one arm around her to pull her upper body flush against his. “No fair. You’re still dressed.” Lily reached between them and unsnapped his shirt quickly. Then she put her body back against his chest and rubbed her breasts across the soft brown hair.

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Keeping one hand around her waist, Ty cupped her head in his hand and ravished her mouth. She moaned as desire coiled deep inside, spiking her hunger higher. Gently, he laid her fully on the rug. He undid the button and zipper to the short skirt she’d worn at dinner. In seconds he had her skirt, panties, and shoes off. He stood above her and stared at her body from head to toe. “You’re perfection, in colors of rose and gold. The colors flow over your skin and hair, making my dick hard with the desire to sink inside your luscious body.” He sat on a nearby chair, yanked off his boots and jeans, and slid a condom on his aroused cock. When he came back to her, he put one foot on either side of her legs. The glow from the fire outlined the muscles in his arms, his chest, his flat abdomen, and his strong legs. His aroused cock stood out ready to claim her. The angles of his cheekbones were etched by the shadows. His blue eyes looked black with flashes of light piercing into her. He reminded her of a picture of a Viking warrior that she’d seen on the front of a romance novel. Only her Viking had brown hair and no clothes. “Are you just going to look at me all night?” Her voice came out low and husky. She cupped her breasts and ran her fingers across her pebbled nipples. His jaw tightened. Shivers of desire went to her pussy. She opened her legs. He knelt between the opening and separated the folds hiding her most sensitive spot. His tongue licked across her clit sending a spike of electricity straight up her spine. Her hips rose to meet his mouth. “Sweet nectar.” He moved upward, brushed her hands aside, and suckled one breast while he caressed the other. He took his time, tasting, teasing, and nibbling across her breasts and abdomen. Lily ran her fingers through his hair and around his ears. She urged him to move up so she could reciprocate. “This time’s for you, darlin’,” he said and moved back to her lower lips, kissing, tasting, raking his teeth lightly across her nub.

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She was on fire for him. “Please go in me, now.” “Soon. Turn over.” Puzzled, she did as he said. His hands massaged her neck and shoulders, along her back and across her bottom. He pulled her waist up where she was on her knees and reached around to roll her nipple between his fingers. With his other hand he rubbed her clit. She wiggled her butt against his hard dick, hoping he’d fill her. All her nerves were supersensitive and screaming for him to take her. Finally, he placed the head of his cock at her opening and plunged in deep. Her inner muscles stretched to accommodate his wide cock. He held still in her. “Are you all right?” “Yes, you’re just big. I can really feel you deep inside me.” Ty moved slowly in and out. He rubbed across her swollen bud. She pushed back against him, keeping him deep in her hungry pussy. Pressure and pleasure began to build inside her. She moved faster, meeting his every stroke until the pressure exploded into waves of elation that spilled into her veins and shot through her. He held her tight and pushed hard one more time before she heard his yell of completion. When he rolled to the side, he kept her body close to him. She heard and felt his heavy breathing. Her heart pounded, and the inner muscles of her pussy still had faint ripples of pleasure that hadn’t dissipated. Her back was pressed against his chest. Ty slid back and turned her to face him. Leaning up, he traced her face with his finger. When his fingers rubbed across her lips, she nipped at them. “Be careful, my fire is only banked, not out.” “Good, because next time it’s my turn.” **** Her eyes were closed. She’d fallen asleep in his arms. Carefully he moved her to the side and got up. He headed for his parents’

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shower. He took a quick rinse, then dried and went back to get his clothes and dress. She stood partially facing the fireplace. His breath caught at her beauty. The flames cast a shimmering gold color across lush breasts. Full peaks stood out like red cherries waiting to be tasted. Golden hair rippled along her shoulders, caressed her breasts, and fell in long waves down her back. With her porcelain skin, he could see her as a statue of ivory, gold, and pink. Her tiny feet, curvy limbs, luscious breasts, and sweet face would make a lovely figurine for the mantel. She was almost too perfect to be real. And yet when she walked to him and kissed his mouth, her lips were warm, sweet, and very real. His cock was already coming to attention as she kindled another raging fire inside him. Her tongue tangled with his in the dance of desire. Faint breaths tickled his neck as she moved down and kissed the place where his heart pounded. Soft hands rubbed his chest, small fingers played with his nipples. He took a deep breath, but didn’t move. She glanced at his face. “You’re playing with fire.” She smiled and slid down to his abdomen. She brushed her lips across his stomach. He watched her stop and gaze at his dick. It almost waved at her for attention. Her warm hand wrapped around him. When he groaned, she straightened up to face him. “Were you going to dress and leave me sleeping?” “I had considered it.” “You can still go.” Her fingers brushed across the top of his dick. She ran her tongue along her lips, and his cock jerked in her hand. “Or you may stay.” All the blood in his head went straight to his hard cock. Heat rushed through his veins. He kissed her mouth and pulled away. Bending, he picked up his jeans. Her stare burned into his backside. He heard her little breath when he reached into his pocket and took out another condom. Turning back to face her, he smiled. “I

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think I’ll stay.” Her sweet grin made his heart leap. Taking hold of his hand she motioned for him to sit on the rug. When he did, she pushed him flat and straddled his hips. Bending, she put her hands on his chest and kissed his lips. He opened letting her tongue in to tangle with his. She stroked along the top of his mouth and then ran her tongue over the edge of his teeth. Her fingers rubbed his nipples as electricity zipped straight down his spine. His balls had tightened and his cock was so hard it hurt. He wanted to roll her over and plunge deep inside her sweet, hot pussy. But this was her turn as she’d said. She teased him with her mouth and teeth. She spread light kisses over his neck, chest, and abdomen. When she closed her mouth over his cock, he gripped her soft hair and groaned loudly. His hips rose to meet her lips. She licked, kissed, and sucked on his hot cock. Sparks flashed behind his closed eyelids. Heat rolled across his body, and he had to fight not to come. He wanted to be inside her before he reached his climax. When he knew he couldn’t take a minute longer without letting go, he gently stopped her. He handed her the condom. “Put it on me.” Her soft hands touching him were almost his undoing. As soon as the condom was in place, he rolled her to her back and plunged into her tight pussy. Her inner walls clamped snug around him. Damn, she is so tight, hot, and wet. He moved quickly in and out. She moved her hips to meet his rhythm. His last plunge went deep and hard, he held there as spasms of pleasure rocketed through his body. Her pussy walls rippled around him as she came and drained him completely. Ty kissed her lips and smiled into her chocolate-brown eyes. “You are so damn sweet.” He rolled to the side and lay catching his breath and getting the strength to dress. He glanced at Lily. Her breath was slowing. The light from the fire shone on the sheen of perspiration on

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her silky skin. He turned on his side to face her, and brushed his hand along the soft, golden strands of her hair. Forcing himself to move, he rose and dressed. She watched him silently. Outside the snow had quit falling. “I’d better head home to my cabin.” “You could stay here.” Glancing closer he thought he saw fear in her eyes. “Did that phone call frighten you?” She turned her head toward the fire. “A little, but I’ll be fine.” Internally he struggled with the need to stay, and the stronger need to put distance between them. “If I stay, I’ll sleep in here on the couch.” He nodded toward the sofa set against the wall. Lily rose and picked up her clothes, holding them in front of her. “No, you go on. I’m a big girl. Lock the door when you leave.” She walked out and he heard her steps on the stairs. He knew he’d hurt her. But he needed time and space. In this weather no one would be out and about. Dressed, he started for the front door, opened it, and then closed it back. There was no way he could leave her. If something happened— well, he wouldn’t even think about that. He went to his parents’ room and got a pillow and blanket, and then returned to the family room. Settling on the couch with the pillow and blanket, he closed his eyes. He didn’t really expect to sleep, not with temptation right upstairs. He’d leave early, at dawn, and have breakfast with some of the men, and then ride the trail all day. Later he’d crash and try to forget Lily at least for a little while. Try to break his addictive need to see and touch her. **** Drake, Brent, and their families arrived late Friday afternoon. Lily waved as the jet landed. Ty stood quietly beside her. He’d avoided her since the night of the dinner, except for arriving

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at bedtime each night and sleeping on the couch. She’d told him it wasn’t necessary. She hadn’t received any more calls, but he ignored her, made his bed, and lay with his back to the room. Finally she’d given up and started going to bed earlier to miss seeing him. Then she’d lain awake most of the night thinking about him right below her. Consequently, she was tired and expected he was also. The jet door opened. Janice and Angie waved as they hurried down the steps with their husbands following. Janice carried her son, and Drake held his daughter’s hand. Lily ran to meet them. “You look tired,” Angie said and looked deep into Lily’s eyes before hugging her. “I sensed things were not going well.” “I just stayed awake last night excited about you all coming today.” Angie gave her a skeptical look but stepped aside for the others to greet her and Ty, who’d walked up behind them. When they got to the ranch house the men headed to the barn. Lacy insisted on going with her daddy. Drake laughed and took her hand. She threw a triumphant smile to her momma. “She has her daddy wrapped around her finger,” Janice said. “Where can I put Joe down for a nap?” “Ty set up the crib in his parents’ room,” Lily said. Janice carried the baby off. Angie walked into the kitchen with Lily. “Coffee or hot chocolate?” Lily asked. “Hot chocolate. What’s wrong? I don’t believe that story you gave me at the landing strip.” “I do want to talk, but let’s wait for Janice. She may also have some advice to give me.” “Is that a spice cake?” Angie pulled the cake plate lid off. “Yes, and made from the recipe you gave me.” “Cut me a piece. I have to see if it’s as good as mine,” she said and grinned.

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“You can’t judge. You’d be partial. Janice”—she spoke to her as she came in the kitchen—“have you had Angie’s spice cake?” “I have, and it’s excellent.” “Great. You can be our judge. Sit down at the table.” Lily cut her a big piece of cake and set it in front of Janice. “Oh no, I don’t want to lose either of you as a friend.” “There’ll be no hard feelings, really,” Lily reassured her. Reluctantly, Janice took a bite, then another. “Hmmm, I can’t tell any difference at all.” “Let me see.” Angie took a bite. “You’re right. You did good, little sister.” Lily poured coffee for Janice and hot chocolate for her and Angie. Once they were seated, she took a deep breath and told them about her and Ty and the phone call. “Wow, you’ve gotten a long ways with him. From what Drake has said, he hasn’t shown any real interest in any particular woman since Candice died.” “Brent has said the same,” Angie added. “And the fact he’s protecting you is significant.” “I don’t think so. He’d protect anyone in his care. He already carries enough guilt over losing his wife.” “But it was in no way his fault,” Janice said. “We all understand that, but he can’t seem to let go of feeling responsible. I’ve hoped he could come to care for me, but it’s hard, almost impossible to compete with a ghost.” Lily blinked her eyes to keep the tears from falling. Angie’s hand covered hers. “You’ve fallen in love with him.” “No, not quite, but I’m close.” As she said the words, she knew she was lying, but she wasn’t ready to admit even to herself how much Ty meant to her. Neither Angie nor Janice said anything for several minutes. Finally, Janice spoke. “He’s had walls up for many years. They won’t come down easily. He’ll fight any feeling you arouse. The fear of

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loving and losing that person again will make him fight you every step of the way.” “She’s right,” Angie said. She squeezed Lily’s hand. “Are you willing to risk your heart? If not, you can come stay with us as long as you want.” “I don’t know. Let me think about your offer. But either way, thank you both for your support.” Hearing the men’s voices, Angie changed the subject and told them about her and Brent’s excitement over having a child.

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Chapter Seven Friday and Saturday had been full of family activities. But early Sunday morning, Ty woke to pounding on his front door. Half-asleep, he pulled on his jeans and went to see who was up so early. “Don’t you guys have better things to do than to wake me at six on a Sunday?” “What, are you getting soft? Let’s saddle some horses and go for a ride before our ladies get up. We have to leave shortly after Sunday dinner,” Drake said. “We both had something crop up at the last minute that has to be taken care of early tomorrow,” Brent added. “All right. Come on in and start the coffee. I’m not riding without my first cup. I’ll go dress.” “I think I was right. You are getting soft,” Drake hollered after him. Ty hurried dressing. Drake was just pouring the coffee when he came into the kitchen. They each had a cup. Drake leaned against the counter. “This is a nice cabin. Will you live here if you ever remarry?” “I’m not going to get married.” “I don’t know. We both noticed the way you watch Lily and the expression on your face. I think you’ve been bit by the bug,” Brent said. “Nope, just having a fling.” Brent’s facial muscles tightened. He stared hard at his brother. “Lily’s not the type of girl you have a fling with. She’s young and innocent.”

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“She agreed. I suggest you stay out of our business.” Ty’s hands clenched, as he stared back at his brother. Brent stepped into his space. “Lily is my business. She’s my wife’s sister.” “All right, you two.” Drake pulled Brent back. “There won’t be any fighting. This has been a nice weekend. Ty, you haven’t shown your anger once until now. I’d say that’s a vast improvement. You’re more like the little brother we both remember. If Lily has anything to do with the change, then she’s good for you.” Ty dumped the last of his coffee in the sink. “Are we going to ride, or sit here and talk like three old ladies?” Drake hit Ty on the back. “Come on, little brother. I’ll race you to our favorite spot.” It was a cold, clear morning, although the temperature had risen the last few days. An expansive blue sky spread out over their heads. The snow-capped mountains and prairie stretched in front of them. Ty had forgotten how good it felt to be with his brothers, riding, laughing, connecting in a way he’d lost for so many years. Had Lily affected his disposition, his outlook? The black cloud over his head and the heavy burden he’d carried had lessened. When they got to their favorite spot, they lay and looked over the edge into the canyon at the wild horses. Just like they had as young boys. “Remember how much fun we had playing out here?” Brent asked. “Before we grew up and found out real life could kick you in the teeth,” Ty added. He sat and then stood. His brothers joined him. “If you don’t let go of the past, you won’t have a future,” Drake said. “I’ve never regretted meeting and marrying Janice. I love her and our children.” “And hopefully you’ll never lose her.” “God forbid, but if that happened, I hope eventually I’d learn to live again. I wouldn’t want Janice to never have a life if I died.” “Neither of you have any idea of the pain. You’ve never

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experienced my kind of loss and hopefully you won’t. Don’t try to give me advice.” “You are absolutely right.” Brent went to his horse and untied the reins. “Angie will have breakfast waiting for me.” He took off and rode away. Drake put his hand on Ty’s shoulder. “I’m sorry. We wanted to be supportive and let you know how much we like Lily. We’d be happy to see you two together. But we don’t know your hurt or how to heal it. Let’s go get breakfast.” He and Ty rode back in silence. At the ranch house, Ty took the horses. “I’ll rub them down and grab something to eat at my cabin. See you later.” Heart heavy, he walked toward the barn. They’d had such a good weekend. He’d ruined it with his asinine attitude. He’d been avoiding Lily since the dinner earlier in the week. He had only seen her when he had to this weekend. He had hoped to get her out of his mind. To stop the growing attraction he felt for her. He wasn’t ready yet for a serious relationship. But nothing was working. She’d gotten under his skin. He unsaddled Drake’s horse. But he took his out again and rode to the family burial grounds. A familiar pain hit his chest when he dismounted in front of Candice’s and the baby’s headstones. He hung his head. “Candice, how do I put you aside and move on? How can I even consider another woman for my wife? I think you’d like Lily. You are both different in personality and looks. But she has a good heart like you. “Nothing will ever make me forget you or the baby. But Drake and Brent are right. My life is changing, and I can’t seem to stop living. “Please forgive me for not being there at the end. For having to say good-bye now. I’ll still come here from time to time and tell you what’s happening.” He touched his fingers to his lips and brushed them across her name.

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Tears clouded his vision. Pivoting on his heel, he walked quickly to Night Star. The wind in his face dried his tears as he rode to the house. Everyone was cleaning the breakfast dishes. Brent saw him come in. “Just in time to help clean up, little brother.” “He always was the best dishwasher,” Drake added. “Ty, sit here.” Lily pulled out a chair. “I saved a plate of food for you, in case you changed your mind and joined us.” She went to the oven and brought the platter of food to the table. “Help yourself. I’ll pour your coffee.” “Thanks.” He grabbed her hand as she started to walk to the coffeepot. “I appreciate you saving this for me.” His eyes stared into hers. Her sweet mouth curved into a smile and curled around his heart. “Well, another five minutes and it would have been dumped into the trash.” She swung her hips provocatively at him as she sashayed away. Brent, Drake, and Ty all laughed. “She sounds just like Mom,” Drake said. “You are in a world of trouble.” **** “She’s at the Terrell ranch.” “You’re certain,” Golitsin asked his man. “As much as I can be without seeing her. The phone call surprised her. She didn’t know what to say. What do you want us to do?” “Nothing. I have a man in mind. He’ll grab Lily Yannell and bring her to me. Once we have her, we’ll get word to her father. If she doesn’t know the location of the money, he’ll send word where he has it hidden to save his daughter.” “You gonna send her back afterwards, boss?” “Of course not. She’d have seen us. But Yannell will hope the money will satisfy me.”

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When he was alone, Golitsin dialed a number. “I have an important job for you. Come and see me, soon.” He hung up. He’d have Lily Yannell and her father’s money. She was a pretty little thing. Maybe he’d keep her to play with—for a while. **** Ty stood behind Lily with his arms wrapped around her. They waved and watched as the jet took off and headed toward Texas. “At this moment, I envy them the warmer weather.” Lily looked around at him. “Maybe you could sell out and buy a ranch close to them?” He turned, keeping his arm across her shoulders. They walked to the truck. “This land is part of me. It’s rugged, especially in the winter, but I can’t imagine leaving. Maybe I’ll split the year and go to Texas to visit in the cold months, when I’m old.” He helped her into the truck and walked to his side and got in. “How about you, Lily? Are you anxious to leave the cold?” “Not necessarily. The land is beautiful in a different way in the winter. I like the feeling of coziness it gives me. “I want to hibernate inside the house like a bear does in his cave. I like to read, cook, do homey things. I imagine in the spring I’ll have the opposite reaction. There’s a vastness, and a quietness about the country that seeps into your pores. I’m really surprised at the immediate response I had even on my first visit.” He stopped at the ranch house to let her out. “Aren’t you coming in?” “I have a few things to do. Am I invited back for dessert later?” “Sure.” She swung down and waved before going inside the house. Ty drove on to his cabin. He needed a little more time to think on his own, and he wanted to make a phone call. He started a small fire in the fireplace, and sat watching the flames

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catch and light up the room. Lily’s sweet fragrance still lingered around him. If he went back tonight they’d make love, and he’d probably never be able to say good-bye to her. Flipping open his cell phone, he punched in the number for his parents. “Hello, Mom. I’m fine. Yes, they all left about an hour ago. No, nothing’s wrong, but I had a question for you and Dad. Can he listen in?” Once his father was on the line, too, Ty took a deep breath and said, “I’ve wondered if I ever did think about marrying again where we might live. I don’t think I could bring another woman to Candice’s house. This place always was hers, and it wouldn’t be a good way to start a new relationship.” “We’ve discussed our concerns regarding that issue,” his dad said. “Your mother and I had decided to ask, if we gave you the big house, would you mind us having the cabin? The ranch house is getting to be a lot of upkeep for your mother, and we’re not there all year.” “It’s foolish to leave it empty half the time,” his mother said. Ty knew they were making it easy for him. He’d been going to ask them if he could use the ranch house. “After all, son, sooner or later it’ll be your ranch. Your brothers won’t want it. They’re happy in Texas. Well, yours and Dirk’s. How’s that working out?” “Great. He’s like another brother. We get along, see things the same way when it comes to the ranch. He’s found a spot where he wants to build himself a home.” “Wonderful. You have a particular lady you want to marry?” his father asked. “I might. You two will be the first to know if I ever pop the question again. Bye.” He hung up before his mother started asking more questions. They were great and sounded like they’d prefer to live in the cabin. Candice had loved them, too. She’d like that. He moved his neck and shoulders. A heavy weight had been lifted. He’d give most all the boxes in the storage area to Candice’s

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parents. He was keeping a few pictures and mementoes. He’d be ready to start a new life with Lily. If she’d have him. And if he had the nerve to ask. **** Lily shut the door behind her and walked to the kitchen. She’d make a cup of tea and gather her thoughts about the weekend. When she passed the family room she stopped. What had she seen? A shiver went up her spine. She started to turn, when a handkerchief covered her mouth and nose. An arm grabbed her around the waist. She fought for freedom, kicking and twisting, but she was getting dizzy and weak. “No.” She screamed the word in her head, but no sound came around the tight handkerchief. Strong arms picked her up and everything went black. **** Ty showered and checked with Dirk before leaving for the ranch house. “You’re back.” “I wanted to see your brothers, but we had a late Sunday dinner. I’ve just arrived at my cabin. What’s up?” “Nothing. I’m going to be at the ranch house if you need me.” “All right. Talk to you later.” Ty snapped his cell shut and took long strides toward the house. He was anxious to have alone time with Lily. He went in the back way, expecting to find her in the kitchen. Nope. After a quick glance around the downstairs, he took the steps two at a time. She must be in her room. She wasn’t, and the house was unusually quiet. Cold dread seeped into his veins. “No!” He screamed the word. Running now, he hurried outside. No one was in sight. She was gone, and he didn’t think she’d

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taken off on her own. Quickly, he rang Dirk back. “She’s gone, Dirk. Someone has her.” “What? Are you sure?” “The house is empty. She had a strange call the other night. Notify the guys at the bunkhouse. Get them out looking for a stranger on horseback or in a car. I don’t know how long he’s had her.” “What are you going to do?” “Contact Brent as soon as they’ve landed. He’ll know what to do next. He has the right contacts. I’m taking my truck and riding down the road. Maybe I’ll see her or something out of place.” But he was afraid the kidnapper had a head start and wasn’t the type to leave a trail for Ty to follow. Still he had to keep busy or go crazy. Fool, if I’d stayed with her, this wouldn’t have happened. I failed, again. He heard a noise that sent a chill through his body. Looking to the sky, he saw a helicopter rising above the trees from the opposite side of the ranch. It was flying southward. Ty didn’t have to see her to know she was going further out of his reach every second. He watched until the big bird faded out of sight, and the noise was gone. Turning his truck around, he went to the ranch house to wait until he could contact Brent. He’d better also call the local police while he waited. Whoever had her, had money and resources. What did he want? It didn’t matter. Unless they found her first, she’d probably be killed whether the person got what he wanted or not.

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Chapter Eight Lily opened her eyes to find herself in a large sedan speeding down a highway. A tall man wearing a black hood sat beside her. Her mouth was dry, but she managed to speak. “Where am I?” The man ignored her. In the front seat a driver and another man, both wearing hoods, also acted as though she hadn’t spoken. “Please tell me. I don’t know what you want. And my throat is so dry. Can I have a drink?” Cold, black eyes stared at her. “Shut up.” “Ah come on, give her a bottle of water.” The man seated in the front passenger side spoke to the man beside her. Her companion reached into a small cooler, opened a water bottle, and held it to her lips. Her hands were tied behind her. Lily drank quickly, some of the liquid running down her chin. “Slow down. You throw up on me and I’ll hit you,” the man growled, and yanked the bottle from her mouth. Lily cuddled into the corner, making herself small. No one knew where she was. They’d never find her. Oh, Ty, I love you, and I never got to say the words. Now I won’t get to. The car made a left turn, throwing her against her captor. He pushed her away and fastened her seat belt, putting more pressure on her tied hands. She looked out the window. If she wasn’t mistaken they were still in Montana. Snow covered the ground, and the mountains were there, but closer. A small farmhouse came into view. The car turned and headed toward it. Her captor pulled her out as soon as the car stopped.

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She stumbled against him. “Walk straight, or I’ll drag you if you fall.” The other two came in behind them and went into another room. The tall guy, as she thought of her captor, punched numbers into a cell phone. “We have her. When are you coming to get her? I’ll keep her until tomorrow. If you’re not here by then, I’ll kill her and dump the body. I don’t intend to get snowbound. Someone just might remember this old place and come looking.” He snapped the phone shut and glared at Lily. His dark brown eyes looked menacing. Directing her to a chair, he told her to sit. Then he tied a rope around the chair and her. Without a word, he left the room. Lily’s heart pounded. Fear tightened her throat. Her rapid breathing was making her dizzy. She forced herself to calm down. She knew Ty and his brothers would be looking for her. But how would they ever find this place in the middle of nowhere? Believe. Ty will rescue me. She repeated the words in her head over and over. In the other room she heard the men’s voices. Before long she would have to go to the bathroom. Maybe then she could try to escape, or at least check out the window and get a better picture of where they’d taken her. **** Ty called Brent as soon as he thought he’d be home. Brent answered on the second ring. “Hi, we just got in the door.” “Brent, she’s gone.” “Who’s gone?” “Lily. I dropped her off at the ranch house and went to my cabin for about an hour or so. When I got back the house was empty. She’d gotten a strange call the other day. We thought it was from the media trying to track her down, but now I’m not sure she told me the truth

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about the caller.” “You don’t have any idea of where they headed?” “I started to look for her. I saw a helicopter, in the distance, rising about the treetops and heading south. My guess is they had the copter hidden behind those hills to the left of our property about twenty miles down the road. I called the local police. They don’t know of anyone who would be in the area flying. I think that was the kidnapper carrying her away.” “Drake and I will fly back there immediately. I’ll call Mick. He took over my business. I’ll ask him to see if he can find out any information from his contacts. We’ll find her.” “Sheriff Grady offered to send his copter up. I’m going to ride with them. We’ll see if we can spot anything suspicious.” “Good idea. Drake and I will be there as soon as possible,” Brent said and hung up. Ty looked out the window at the sky. If only the snow held off to give them time to search. He punched in the numbers for the Sheriff’s office. “You want me to drive to town, or will you pick me up here?” “Stay put,” Sheriff Grady said. “Our pilot and I will be there in thirty minutes.” He snapped his phone shut and paced the family room floor. It was only a few days ago that they were tangled together on the rug. Her warm body cuddled against his. They had to find her. Once she was safe he’d send her away to stay with Angie and Brent. The risk of loving and losing hurt more than being alone. His fear for Lily reminded him he never wanted to feel that deep pain of loss again. **** Lily called out. Her kidnapper, the tall man, came into the room. “What do you want?” he growled. “I need to go to the bathroom.” Embarrassment made her face

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flush with heat. He turned and walked back out but hollered for a man named Mac. “Take her to the bathroom, but check it first. Make sure she can’t get out.” Lily’s heart sank. They weren’t going to let down their guard. The thin man, who’d sat up front with the driver, came and released her ties. “What about my hands?” she asked. He stared hard at her and then shrugged. “You wouldn’t get far in this cold if you did try to escape.” He undid the rope. Then he clasped her arm in a tight grip and led her down a short hall to the bathroom. He opened the door, looked around, and pushed her in, snapping the door shut behind her. She took her time. When she washed her hands, she left the water running. The room was small with one little window. Time had made it stick tight. She pushed on it, but it only went up a tiny bit. What could she throw outside on the white snow? Glancing down she saw nothing to use until she stepped back and caught sight of her blue socks. Would they notice? Her jeans were long. It was worth a try. Quickly she took off one sock and edged it out around the screen, then pulled the window all the way down again. Her hand went into her pocket to get her cell phone. Of course it was gone. The man who grabbed her must have tossed it somewhere along the way. Maybe her GPS would work, if the phone hadn’t been damaged or the cold didn’t freeze the insides. She knew she was grabbing at straws to keep her hope up. But she had to believe she’d be found. She opened the door just as the thin man had reached for the knob. He looked suspiciously around the room before taking her back and tying her hands behind her and rewinding the rope around the chair. “May I have a little water? I’m so dry.” He didn’t say anything, but returned shortly with a bottle. He held

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it to her lips and let her take a few swallows. “Now shut up for a while.” He strode to the back of the house to join his friends. I’ve done all I can. Now I have to pray they come this way, by some miracle, and see my sock. Small chance, but it’s all I’ve got. **** The Sheriff’s helicopter landed. Ty ran to get on. Soon they were in the air heading south. “It’s cold and threatening snow. I suspect they had a hideout chosen not too far from here,” Sheriff Grady said. “There’s lots of empty land, but where they’d choose to hide out is the mystery.” Both he and Ty surveyed the ground as they flew over. “I’ve heard of an isolated landing strip about twenty miles from us,” the pilot said. “I’ll swing by, and we can check it out.” Ty prayed they’d get a break, otherwise he didn’t want to think about what might happen. He searched the barren, empty prairie as they flew along. The helicopter angled to the left and rose higher to go over a large boulder. On the other side was the landing strip. “I’ll set her down. You two can check the area.” The bird lowered and circled then landed. Ty and Sheriff Grady jumped out and, bending low, ran toward an old shack on the edge of the tarmac. When they opened the door, a white-haired man almost bumped into them. “You just caught me. I was leaving.” He glanced past them to the helicopter. “I hadn’t had any business in months, and now two landings in one day.” He shook his head. “This can’t be a coincidence.” “Who landed earlier?” Sheriff Grady asked, and showed his badge. “Two men and a woman. The man had called yesterday and set up the landing and asked me to keep the bird in my hangar.” He nodded toward the old hangar to the right of them. “When they landed, one

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man carrying a woman ran toward a brown sedan waiting for them.” “Did you question him about the woman?” Sheriff Grady asked. “Sure did. He said she wasn’t feeling well. He mentioned flying made her nauseated.” “Did you see which way they went?” Ty asked. “No. The pilot put the helicopter in the hangar and joined them in the car. I came back inside, did a little paperwork, and decided to head home. They rode down the two-lane road toward the highway, but that’s as much as I know.” He looked at Ty. “Sorry.” “Thanks. We’re glad you were here and could give us this much info. Can we see the copter?” “Sure, Sheriff. Let me get my key. I locked the place up.” Ty stayed behind and snapped his cell open. There was a signal. He punched in Brent’s number. Angie answered. “They left soon after you called,” she said. “Do you have any news?” “We’ve found where they landed the helicopter. They left in a brown car. It’s something, but not much. I’ll keep in touch.” He snapped the cell shut. Drake and Brent would be at the ranch before too long. His cell rang. “Ty here.” “This is Mick. I’ve landed at your ranch. I wasn’t too far away. I have family in upper Wyoming. Where are you?” Ty told him they’d found the private airport where the men who took her had landed. “Your cousin, Dirk, said to tell you we’re coming your way in his truck.” Ty gave him directions to head toward where they were. “You can track on wheels and we’ll be above in the copter.” “Sounds good. We’ll head out now.” “Great. We can use all the help we can get. We may have a fight on our hands if we find them, no, when we find them.” When the Sheriff and the owner of the landing strip came back,

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they all spread out a map and studied the terrain. The pilot came in and joined them. “What direction would they have taken?” Grady asked, looking at the others for suggestions. “I’d think they’d stay here in the western section. The eastern part of Montana is getting much worse weather. So let’s narrow our search to this area.” Ty circled a large western section of the state and made a mark where they were located. “We need to start out and go over each section like the spokes on a wheel. What do you all think?” “I agree, and we don’t want to fly too low. Hopefully if we get close they won’t hear the copter,” Sheriff Grady said. “I have a friend and my cousin headed this way in a truck. If we see something suspicious they can drive in that direction and check it out,” Ty said. “When my brothers land at the ranch, we’ll send them driving in the opposite direction so one car will hopefully be close to what we find.” “Sounds good,” the pilot said. “We have limited time. It’s going to get dark before long, and I’m afraid we’re in for more snow.” As they walked toward the copter, Ty’s cell rang again. “Hello.” “We’ll be there soon,” Brent said. “Where are you?” Ty told him what had happened since his call. “After you land, call Mick. See where he is, and then take my truck. I just got it back the other day. I was going to sell it, and thank goodness I changed my mind. It’s got plenty of gas and should be running fairly well. Head in the opposite direction from Mick, but stay west. We only have a few hours before we all have to turn back.” “Will do. We’ll keep in touch.” Ty’s hopes lifted knowing everyone would soon be involved in the search. The more people looking increased their possibility of finding Lily. Their helicopter lifted into the air and started on the first spoke of the wheel on their map. They’d drawn out each direction to go. Time was running out for them today.

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**** The minutes dragged by. Lily’s hands were feeling numb from being tied so long. Muscles ached from where she’d been sitting in the hard, straight chair. Once in a while one of the men would look in on her, but mostly they ignored her. It sounded as though they were playing cards and waiting for the man who wanted her. If he didn’t get here soon, they’d kill her. Hell, he might kill me, too. I’m in a very bad position. She glanced out the window and saw the light beginning to fade. If they were looking for her, there wasn’t much daylight left to aid them in the search. To keep her spirits up, she continued her mantra. Believe. Ty will rescue me. The words comforted and calmed her. She didn’t want to fall apart and get hysterical. The tall man who’d kidnapped her had a short fuse. There was no reason to take a chance on lighting it. Her head fell forward. She must have dozed for a few minutes. A cell phone rang, and her kidnapper answered. She recognized the tall man’s voice. “I know the weather report. Get here quick. As I said before we’ll be gone by tomorrow. This front is coming in faster than we expected. And we ain’t taking no prisoners with us. Sure, you paid me. I did what you wanted. It’s not my fault you’re having a problem getting here to collect her.” “All right. But your man better get here soon. It’s going to snow tonight.” The conversation ended. He looked around the door to Lily and frowned. “You’re becoming a liability. We need to leave. I lied on the phone to shut him up.” He chuckled. “Never trust a dishonest man.” Lily heard him talking to his buddies. In a minute, they all came into the room. Her heart rate ratcheted up and out of sight. Her vision blurred as she saw him take out his gun. “Come on, Karel. Let her live. What the hell. We have our money.

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It’s a toss of the dice. If the cold gets her, we didn’t do it, and we’ve left no evidence,” the man who’d taken her to the bathroom said. “If she survives, she can’t identify us. We’ve worn our masks whenever we’ve been around her. Then again, maybe the other guy will get here. But with this weather, I doubt it.” Lily held her breath. She knew pleading wouldn’t help her case with this cold-hearted man. She stared back at him and held her head high. The others stamped out to go to their car. It was probably only seconds, but it felt like minutes as the two studied each other. “You aren’t going to cry or plead with me to save you?” “It wouldn’t change your mind. You’ll do whatever you want to do.” She held herself steady, trying to hide how scared she was. He cocked his head to the side and gave a harsh laugh. “I’ve made strong men weak and tearful when I faced them with my gun. People say I don’t have a heart.” She didn’t speak, didn’t move. Her heart was lodged in her throat, but she held on to a tiny whisper of hope. “The only thing I respect is courage. And, little lady, you have it. So, I’ll give you a chance. Maybe your people will find you before starvation or the cold ends your life. I’m leaving the generator running. When it runs out of gas, it’ll quit.” He shrugged. “As my partner said, it’ll be the luck of the draw.” With those words, he pivoted around and strode outside, slamming the door shut behind him. Lily heard the car engine start, and the sound of the wheels crunching on the icy snow faded as they drove off. Tears she’d been holding back ran down her face. Finally, she took a deep breath. He’d left her tied. She hadn’t dared to ask him to untie the ropes. Alone, now, she began to work on the ties around her wrists. Over the hours, she’d been pulling on them, trying to stretch the cords. They felt a tiny bit looser. She’d survive. He’d given her a chance. She wasn’t going to waste it.

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Chapter Nine Ty leaned against the window and stared out. Light and hope were fading, but he wouldn’t give in. Lily depended on him and the others to find her. They finished searching the first spoke of the wheel and started on the second. Dusk was falling. “We’re going to have to turn back soon,” the pilot said. “My last weather report said we’d have snow in the next hour or two. We’ll take a quick sweep of this area and head home.” The Sheriff and Ty nodded, but didn’t take their eyes off the territory below. Ty rubbed his eyes and looked toward a narrow road off to the left. He blinked. “Circle around toward that road,” he said to the pilot. As they got closer, they saw the car speeding toward a major highway. They’d kept their lights off, and with the car’s dark color they had almost faded into the landscape. “Is it brown?” Grady asked. “Can’t tell for sure, but it’s the only car we’ve seen in the last hour.” Ty flipped his phone open and called Brent. “Where are you?” When Brent told him they’d landed and were in the truck headed in their direction, Ty gave a sigh of relief. “Good. Take a right on the next road you come to. With luck you might just meet our kidnappers at the last intersection before the interstate. We’re going to circle this area.” “We’ll follow your directions, and I’ll alert Mick to head this way. They could have divided up. Hopefully you’ll sight a cabin or house that appears deserted.” Brent hung up.

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Their pilot turned and began a wide circle. Ty and Sheriff Grady took out binoculars to help see the area better in the fading light. They made one circle with no luck. “We need to turn back,” the pilot said. “I have a gut feeling. Make one more smaller circle, please.” “All right, and that’s it. We’re heading to the ranch afterwards.” Ty’s heart sank. He saw nothing. They’d have to leave her overnight and hope tomorrow she’d be found alive, or maybe she was in the car speeding down the road. The helicopter swung toward home. Sheriff Grady patted his shoulder. “We’ll find her tomorrow. Maybe earlier if Brent finds that car and the people inside are the kidnappers. Don’t give up hope.” “Thanks. I appreciate the help today. I won’t forget it.” They landed and let Ty off before taking flight again and heading to the landing strip where they housed the helicopter. Sheriff Grady had promised they’d be out at first light, weather permitting. Ty went into the empty house and put on coffee. Eventually the others would be heading home. A few flakes of snow were already coming down. **** Drake was driving. He speeded faster then he should on the slick roads, but he took a chance keeping the speed up as much as possible. Brent, sitting beside, him watched for the intersection and a car. Daylight was fading fast and the first few snowflakes plopped onto the windshield. They’d almost given up when they saw the crossroads. They stopped, pulled off the road, and waited. “If our boys are headed this way, they either should be here any moment, or they’ve made it past us and are on their way to the interstate,” Drake said. “We can’t wait long or we’ll be stranded on the side of this road all night.”

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“See that old tree?” Brent pointed. It lay close to the intersection. “I wonder if we could drag it across the crossroads?” “Probably, but the next car could be innocent people, or Lily might be in the kidnapper’s car. If they hit the tree trunk, there’ll possibly be injuries.” “I doubt anyone else is out in this weather, especially in this unpopulated area. Lily might be hurt worse if we do nothing.” “True. Hurry, if they’re headed this way we haven’t got much time,” Drake said. Quickly they dragged the rotten tree trunk to the intersection and placed it across the tarmac. Drake and Brent ran to their car. Not two minutes later they saw a vehicle approach. Since it was almost dark, the driver didn’t see the obstacle right away. “Their driver isn’t familiar with these roads, or he’d be driving a bit faster,” Drake said. “I think we may have our kidnappers.” The brown sedan’s brakes squealed as the car slowed and went to the left, skidding across the ground toward Drake and Brent. “Damn,” Drake said as the car brushed against the right side of Brent and Drake’s vehicle with a loud bang. In spite of being shaken, Brent and Drake jumped out of their car from the driver’s side, guns drawn. “Get out with your hands up,” Brent yelled. Stunned, the two men in front opened the doors and staggered out. The third man in the back had pulled his gun out. Brent saw the man was armed. “Drop it. You might shoot me, but then my brother would kill you.” The man hesitated. He glared at Brent, holding the gun pointed at his heart. “Don’t be stupid,” one of his partners said. “They don’t have nothing on us.” Brent drew a breath of relief when the man handed him his gun. Drake got on his phone, contacting the Sheriff. “We’ll tie them and transport them to town,” Drake told Sheriff Grady.

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“My deputy and I will drive out in your direction. Then you won’t have to come all the way in.” “See you soon.” Drake ended the call and kept his gun on the subdued men while Brent finished tying them up. Brent shoved each man into the backseat and fastened seat belts around them. “With their hands tied behind them and the seat belts on they’ll have much more difficulty trying anything,” Brent said. He checked the side of their vehicle. “Looks like it will drive all right. Not too much damage.” He glanced at Drake. “You feel all right to drive?” “Sure. You took the brunt of the crash. How about you?” “Head’s a little dizzy, but I’ll be fine. Let’s get these guys back and find out where they left Lily.” He put his head inside the back door and faced the men. “I don’t suppose either one of you wants to tell me where we can find Lily Yannell?” The silent, stone-faced men stared back at him. “No, I didn’t think it would be that easy. Let’s go, Drake.” Drake waited for Brent to climb in on the driver’s side, and then he got in. “We’re on our way. But get on the phone and call Dr. Neels to come and check your hard head.” “I’ll be fine. What, are you turning into an old maid worrying about me?” “No.” Drake threw him a glance. “I’m just scared of Mom and Angie if I let anything happen to you.” **** Lily saw the snowflakes and knew outside of a miracle she’d be spending the night where she was, but at least it would keep the other man from getting here. She kept working on her ropes. One piece was getting loose. So far the heat still warmed the house. Still, at any moment that could change. Her fingers were clumsy and cold. She wouldn’t stop trying.

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She’d had one miracle when the man hadn’t shot her. Her hope and determination kept her going. She jumped and blinked her eyes. Faint light shone inside the cabin from the window. She must have dozed after she finally managed to get her hands free and the rest of her ties off of her. In the front bedroom, she’d found two blankets. Although dirty, and no telling what else might be on them, she’d wrapped herself up and sat in the chair. Without a jacket, the heat had not been enough to keep some of the cold out. The blankets warmed her chilled body. Getting up, she walked to the window. Thankfully, it had been a light snowfall and had stopped early in the evening. She was certain there were people looking for her, but the cabin was in the middle of an isolated area. How could she make the place more visible? Though faded, the pink and blue blankets on the white snow might catch their eye. If they didn’t she’d probably freeze to death tonight. There couldn’t be much gas left in the generator, and her only covering would be wet. She’d wait and listen. If she heard a plane, she’d run outside with the blankets in her arms. Spread one and stand on it. A more drastic plan would be to try and burn the old cabin down. Searching the kitchen, she found an old matchbox in the back of one drawer. To start the fire she’d have to use the only material she had, the blankets. No, then she’d have nothing left if they missed her. Her best shot was her second idea. She moved her chair close to the window and waited. Hunger gnawed at her stomach, and her muscles ached. She’d drunk water out of the faucet, but hadn’t had food since her kidnapping. Her knees were weak, but she was determined. Believe. Ty will rescue me. **** Sheriff Grady and his pilot landed at the ranch at first light. Ty ran

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to the helicopter and got in. “Did you get any information out of those three last night?” Ty asked as he put his headset on. “No. They’re a stubborn bunch, but my deputy is going to work on them today. At least until the FBI gets here. I understand Brent’s FBI friend is coming.” “Yes. Brent called him last night, after he got checked by the doctor.” Ty smiled. “What a big fuss he made about getting looked over. We had to threaten to call Angie and Mom before he shut up.” Sheriff Grady laughed. “I’d like to have seen that. Is he all right?” “Slight concussion. I guess his hard head hit the side window. He has a headache. We won’t let him go with Drake today. It’s killing him.” Ty looked out the window as they flew away from the ranch. “We’ll find her today, Ty,” Sheriff Grady said. “I know.” He took a deep breath. “I’m counting on it.” He spread out the map they’d marked yesterday. “Let’s take up where we left off. And go back to the last circle we made only go a little more to the left. I swear I saw a dot of something in the distance.” “Sure,” their pilot said. “No problem.” He swung the bird toward the southwest. The land below them was covered in white snow, and the air was crisp and clear. Bright sunlight sparkled across the vast land. Ty had on his sunglasses to break the glare. He took the binoculars and searched for the spot where he thought he’d seen something last evening. Again it was when they turned to go back at a slightly different angle that he caught a glimpse of a dark speck in the whiteness. “Turn right,” he shouted. Their pilot angled the copter in that direction. “I see it, too. That little speck, and it looks like a snow-covered small cabin behind it.” Ty’s heart pounded. It has to be her. A hollow ache filled his abdomen. She has to be all right. As they flew closer, Ty saw a small

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figure standing on something pink. Arms waving frantically, the figure jumped up and down. “That’s her,” Sheriff Grady said. Ty leaned against the window, staring hard. Lily became clearer as they got close. Her golden hair glistened in the sunlight. A small, dilapidated cabin sat behind her. When the helicopter landed, Ty was the first one out. He ran through the snow and grabbed her tight. Her soft body wrapped around his. “I knew you’d come. I kept telling myself you’d rescue me,” she whispered in his ear. Sheriff Grady ran by with gun drawn to check the cabin. Lily yelled to him, “No one’s in there. They all left late yesterday.” “Drake and Brent caught three men at dusk. They denied knowing anything, but we didn’t believe them. There wasn’t any other reason for them to be in this isolated area,” Ty said. “Can you identify the men who held you?” “No. That’s the only reason they didn’t shoot me. They wore masks the whole time. But I think I’d know their voices, at least the leader’s.” “We’re going to take you home and get you warm.” Ty picked her up and put her in the helicopter. As soon as they were airborne, he contacted the others. “We have her safe. See you at the ranch,” he told Drake, and then Mick. He snapped his phone shut and held Lily tight. His chin touched the top of her silky hair. She cuddled into him, her breath a whisper against his throat. How could he consider marriage? He’d live in constant fear of her being hurt or worse. And yet the idea of letting her go and never holding her again, never seeing her smile or smelling her womanly scent, was just as difficult to comprehend. Fear and the need to make Lily his own warred inside his mind. He didn’t have to decide today, thank goodness. Just now all he had to

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do was hold her sweet body glued to his. Lily raised her head as they were landing. “It’s so good to be back at the ranch. I’m starved and a want a hot bath, not necessarily in that order.” She smiled at Ty. “While you soak in a hot tub, I’ll fix you breakfast.” “Sounds wonderful.” “We’re all sure glad to have you home safe and sound, little lady,” Sheriff Grady said. “Thank you so much, and you, too,” she said and looked from Sheriff Grady toward the pilot. “I know you all took a risk with your own safety to come after me in this weather.” “We’ve done it before. At least this time we have a happy ending,” Sheriff Grady said. The Sheriff got out first. Then he helped Ty and Lily out. They leaned low and ran toward the house. “Won’t you and the pilot come in for coffee and breakfast?” Ty asked. “We’ll head back to town. I still have to transfer those three to the Feds. And my wife will be looking for me home for lunch. See you all soon.” Sheriff Grady tipped his hat and ran back to the copter. Ty carried Lily inside and upstairs to her room. “Undress. I’ll start the water running and then go cook your food.” “I can hardly wait. They didn’t give me anything to eat, but I want to feel clean, too.” She rose onto her tiptoes and brushed her lips across his mouth. “Thank you again.” “You can thank me later, when you’re stronger.” He winked at her as he left the room. Taking the steps two at a time, he went downstairs and into the kitchen. He’d cook a big meal for everyone. Brent, who must have seen them go upstairs, joined him. “She’s not injured?” “No, she’s cold and hungry, but otherwise she’d doing well.” “It’s a miracle they didn’t kill her.” “I know.” Ty looked across at his brother. “I think it’s because she

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couldn’t identify them. They wore masks.” He walked across the room and had refilled the coffee pot with water, when the front door opened and Drake hollered hello. “She’s all right?” Drake asked as he stomped into the kitchen and looked around. “Fine, but hungry and wanted a bath. She’ll be down in a few minutes.” “Where’d you find her?” Brent asked. “The same area where I thought I’d seen something late yesterday. If we’d had a few more minutes of light and the front hadn’t been closing in on us, we’d have had her home last night.” He turned to Drake. “As I was just telling Brent, they wore masks. She didn’t see their faces.” “That may make it difficult to get them convicted,” Drake said. “The Feds will check the cabin. Hopefully they left some fingerprints, and they’re bound to have a record and maybe other charges against them,” Brent said. “She thinks she’ll recognize their voices,” Ty added. “But what we need most is to find out is who wanted her and why?” “Maybe one of them will give up that information for a lesser sentence.” Brent went to the coffee pot and poured coffee for the three of them. He took a sip. “I needed this.” “I do, too. Pour me a cup, please.” Lily stood in the doorway. All three men turned in her direction. Ty wanted to go pick her up and hold her tight again. He barely restrained himself. Her long hair hung down around her shoulders. She’d put on jeans and a gold-andbrown colored shirt. The sun coming in the windows made her glow. “We’re very glad to see you back home,” Drake said. Brent bent down and kissed her cheek. “That’s from Angie and me.” He grinned at her and handed her his cell phone. “Why don’t you call her? I called her on the way back here to let her know we’d found you, but she’ll want to hear your voice.” Lily sat at the table and phoned her sister. Ty fixed her hot

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chocolate. “Hi, Sis,” Lily said. “Yes, I’m not hurt, only hungry. I’m going to eat, and then I’ll call back and we’ll talk more.” She handed Brent his phone. “Sorry, but I can’t resist this food. I’m starved and it smells wonderful.” Ty was finishing cooking the bacon and eggs. He’d warmed leftover fried potatoes and biscuits from yesterday. Quickly, he filled her plate with them. “Start on this. I’ll add the rest in a few minutes.” Brent and Drake sat at the table with her, drinking their coffee and smiling as she gobbled every bite down. As soon as Ty had the rest cooked, he put the bacon and eggs on her plate and joined them. **** She’d never been as hungry in her whole life. When she finished and sat back, she had to smile at the three men watching her every move. “I’m fine, really. Thanks to all of you.” “I’ve never seen a small woman put away that much food,” Brent said and smiled. “I’m amazed.” “We all are, about your eating and you being alive and well,” Drake added. “How did you survive?” Lily told them about what happened between her and the leader just before they left. “The thin man urged him to leave me alive. That helped.” “But your courage saved your life,” Ty said, and the other two nodded in agreement. She was embarrassed, but pleased by their praise. “There wasn’t anything else I could do. I thought if I was going to die, I didn’t plan to die whimpering.” “When a man or woman is in that position, they each have to make their own decision. What they think might work to save their life. What you chose saved yours because there was a thread of decency buried somewhere in that evilness facing you, and you

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tapped into it,” Brent said. “He’s right,” Mick added as he came into the kitchen. He walked to the table and grinned at Brent. “He got himself into enough close calls where he’s used all sorts of ways to wiggle out.” His joke eased the seriousness of their conversation and soon they were joking and laughing over old stories. Lily sat back and watched the interplay between the men. Ty cooked food for the rest of them, and they talked as they ate. The kitchen was bright with sunshine, her belly was full, and contentment wrapped around her like a warm cloak. Ty listened to the conversation and occasionally glanced at her. She wondered how all of this had affected him. Would he stay close to her or step back again?

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Chapter Ten Lily and Ty had gone to the airport to see Brent and Drake off. Mick had left earlier after checking with some contacts. He had several names as to who the person behind the kidnapping might be. He left the names with Ty to give to the Sheriff. The FBI were arriving soon to pick up the kidnappers. The silence in the house wrapped around them as they walked back inside. They hadn’t talked on the drive from the landing strip. “I need to do a few chores and talk with Dirk to see if there are any problems concerning the ranch. I’ll check the house first, and then keep the doors locked until I return.” “Don’t worry about me. I doubt anyone else will be trying to get me. Not after the way you all managed to rescue me and get the bad guys.” “I can’t help but worry. I—” He turned and strode out the door. Her kidnapping had not helped their relationship. He’d been more open to her before, and she’d let hope enter her heart. But his fear was back. Lily sighed. His walls came down briefly, but were easily raised again. Still tired from her ordeal, she checked the doors and went to her room. She curled into a ball under the covers. Tears ran down her face and she sniffled. All the energy she’d focused on being brave was melting away. Deep, heaving sobs followed the tears. She cried until her eyes were puffy and red. ****

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Ty strode across the snow into the barn and saddled Night Star. “Time for us to go for a ride, old boy.” Cold air blew in his face as he headed across the fields. He saw several of the men working on a fence and rode toward them. Work would keep him mind off the woman back at the ranch. Maybe. He helped the men repair the fence, told them Lily was safe, and then rode on. Away from the ranch house. Away from the decision hovering in the back of his head. But it didn’t work. He might as well go face her and talk it out. He’d head back to the ranch, rub Night Star down, and then see her. His heart jumped when he walked into the silent house. For a second he thought somehow they’d gotten her again. Ty took the stairs two at a time and rushed into her bedroom. Lily lay curled in the fetal position. Her face was blotchy from crying. Damn, seeing her this way made him want to gather her into his arms and never let her go. And to wrap her in cotton wool, as the old saying went, to protect her from all the hurts that life would send her way. Her fragile appearance belied her inner strength. The fact that she’d handled herself so well during a dangerous situation showed she was not weak. Lily’s scent permeated the room. The sliver of sunlight coming around the curtains shone over her, like a beacon calling him home. Ty found himself unable to resist sitting in a nearby chair, removing his boots, socks, and the rest of his clothes. He carefully pulled back the covers and climbed into the warm bed. He wrapped his arms around her and held her close. Lily stirred, raised her head, and smiled. She nuzzled his neck, and all his blood went down to his dick. “Did I thank you for rescuing me?” Her breathy voice sent heat swirling through his body. “It wasn’t only me. It took a whole group of us working together to find you.”

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“But you were the one who arranged the rescue and insisted on rechecking that one area the next day. Sheriff Grady told me when he stopped by today before your brothers left.” Ty kissed her mouth. “I had a hunch, that old gut feeling.” Her hips wiggled closer. His hard cock rubbed against her abdomen. “Be careful, darlin’. I’m so hungry for you it won’t take much for me to roll right on top.” Her sexy chuckle made his cock twitch. Damn, he wanted her in the worst way. But he’d only planned to hold her, and then when she woke to have their talk. Suddenly, she rolled him back against the bed and straddled his body. Her warm hand took hold of his cock. “You were saying?” All intelligent thought was gone. He groaned as her hand began to move up and down his length. “We need to talk.” He tried one last time to be reasonable. When she put her lips around him he gave up. He’d worry about that later. He ran his hands through the soft strands of her hair while she kissed, teased, and sent his heart into overdrive. Holding onto his last tether of control, Ty stopped her and moved her up to face him. He cupped her face and kissed her eyelids, her cheeks, her chin, and then her mouth. When he dipped his tongue inside her sweet, hot mouth, a rush of pleasure centered in his chest and spread through him. Her tongue teased and tangled with his. Sliding his body downward, his mouth brushed across her chin. He took a nip at her earlobe before moving to the juncture between her neck and shoulder. Her pulse beat against his mouth. The taste, touch, smell, and sight of her was addicting to him. Her lush mounds topped with rosy nipples invited his attention. He licked her pebbled peak. Her moan urged him on. Taking his time, he kissed each breast and cupped the silky mounds in his hands.

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Lily’s head thrashed back and forth. “Yes, oh yes.” The whispered words spilled out. Reaching down with one hand, he rubbed her swollen nub as he ran his teeth across her tight nipple. Gradually his lips followed the path of his hand. When he tasted the sweet nectar coating her pink folds, he said, “You are so delectable. I may self-destruct at any moment.” Her body rose to meet his mouth. “I want you inside me.” “In time, honey. Lie back and enjoy.” He put two fingers into her pussy and moved them in and out as his tongue laved her nub. Her fingers dug into his thick hair. Her musky scent and honey taste had his control slipping fast. Ty moved into position, his cock at her opening. Staring into her dark eyes, he slid into her hot, silky pussy. Her inner walls hugged his cock tight. She screamed his name as her hips rose and met his every movement. He pumped into her pussy faster and faster. Fire licked along his nerve endings. A jolt of electricity flickered up his spine as he exploded, emptying his seed into her. At that moment, for a brief second, he remembered the condom. He started to pull out but her legs held him tight and her hips pulled him in closer, sending his thoughts far away. Afterward, they lay side by side, both breathing heavily. As his mind returned, so did the thought. Lily could be pregnant. No. He didn’t want to take a chance on seeing another woman die. His common sense told him what had happened to Candice was unusual, and the risk of it occurring again was very slim. But still the fear lingered inside him, hanging on, reminding him of those dark days when he didn’t know how to survive. He felt Lily staring at him. “We need to talk.” Getting out of bed, he grabbed his clothes and started to the door. “I’ll shower and dress in my parents’ room. See you downstairs.”

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**** She didn’t regret their coming together. It was wonderful for her. A celebration of being alive and with the man she loved. Even if he told her good-bye, she’d have these memories. Who was she kidding? It would break her heart. Still, she had discovered how strong she was, and no one could take that from her. She’d survive. She told herself this as she showered. Then she dressed in jeans and a royal blue sweater and went downstairs. In spite of all her brave thoughts, her heart was heavy. Ty had put on coffee for him and hot chocolate for her. He’d made sandwiches for them. He gave her a halfhearted smile. “Mom says difficult conversations are better faced on a full stomach.” Lily sat at the small kitchen table. “Are we going to have a difficult talk? I thought what happened between us was lovely, sexy, and exciting.” “True, but we forgot one thing, or I should say I forgot.” He gazed at her and realized she had no idea what he meant. “I forgot the condom.” “And?” “You might be pregnant.” Lily’s heart sank. She’d thought from his actions and words that he might want to marry her. Obviously, her dream wasn’t his. “Say something?” he said. “What do you want me to say, Ty?” “I had many mixed thoughts when I went riding. Your kidnapping shocked me. I’d thought I might be ready to consider marriage, but I know I don’t want any wife of mine to get pregnant. I can’t go through that again. The fear, and if something happened, the thought of the grief overwhelms me.” “Let me be sure I understand you. You do not want children?” “I like children, but not for me. I can’t imagine how hard those

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nine months would be, waiting to see if everything would be all right. I’m not willing to gamble and lose you.” Anger and disappointment whipped through her. “You are a coward.” The words flew out of her mouth. His face turned a dark red. “I am a realist. Life can be fucking hard. I’m trying to avoid some of the misery.” Lily stood, walked around the table, and put her face in front of his. “Damn it, you aren’t the only person ever hurt. Life sucks at times, but it’s also beautiful and full of momentous moments like what I thought happened upstairs. Apparently I was the only one enjoying that moment, but you could have fooled me.” From his expression, he looked as though she had struck him. She stormed out of the kitchen and went into his office. She’d punched in Brent’s number when Ty came to the door. “What are you doing?” “Duh, I’m making a call. Do you mind giving me some privacy?” “Sure.” His boot heels clacked on the floor. The front door opened and closed. She heard the lock snap into place. Angie answered on the first ring. “Hi, Lily, what’s up?” “Brent suggested that I could come and stay with you two for a while. Would that be all right with you?” “Of course. What’s wrong?” “Nothing.” “You and Ty aren’t working out? Brent said Ty was crazy when you were kidnapped.” “No. Ty and I don’t have any common meeting ground. I can’t stay here any longer. I do have a friend in California that I can stay with.” “Don’t be silly. We want you. I’ll call Drake and he’ll send the plane to pick you up.” “I’m going to pack.” “When I know what time the plane is landing I’ll notify you. Are you going to tell Ty you’re leaving?”

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“Not until the last minute.” Lily stomped up the stairs to her room and began packing. He’d been going to ask her to marry him, but he didn’t want children. Candice and the child he lost were going to forever haunt him. Unless he could let go and live again, any marriage with or without children was doomed. She threw her clothes in the suitcase haphazardly. What was she doing thinking of marriage anyway? Her father’s trial hadn’t even come up yet. There was much turmoil to get through before she could think about her future. She hadn’t spoken to her father since his arrest, and sooner or later she’d have to face him. Lily was pulling her suitcase down the stairs when Ty knocked at the door. He saw the luggage when he stepped inside. “You going somewhere?” He gave her a probing look. “I asked Angie to send the plane for me. I want to spend some time with her. You’ll have the place back to yourself and won’t have to worry about me.” Lily tipped her chin high and fought to keep it from trembling. “Maybe I like having you around.” “I don’t think so. Angie just called back. I’ll need a ride to the landing strip in about an hour and a half.” “Sure.” His expression hardened. A muscle in his jaw twitched. “I’ll be back.” He pivoted and walked briskly out the door and to his truck. She watched him go until she couldn’t see his dust cloud anymore. Her heart was breaking, but she didn’t see any other choice. Taking a breath hurt. Lily went to check the kitchen, to see that it was clean and in order. She’d begun to love this place, to feel at home. How silly. It wasn’t her home. She didn’t have one. The time crept by. When she saw Dirk get out of his truck and come to the door, she was both sad and relieved. She had wanted to see Ty one more time, but didn’t want to have to say good-bye. He must have felt the same and sent Dirk instead.

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“Lily, I’m sorry you’re leaving.” He bent down and looked into her eyes. “You sure you want to do this?” “I have to, Dirk. He’s not going to change.” Dirk tipped his hat back. “I don’t know. I saw changes.” “Not enough.” “Well, you know what’s best for you.” He picked up her case. “Is this it?” “That one and the little one here.” She held her overnight bag. He took it from her and, carrying both, headed out the door. She followed. As they drove off, she glanced back at the house and a lump formed in her throat. The ride was short. They sat quietly watching the sky as the jet came into sight and landed. Dirk got her bags and followed her up the stairs to place them inside the plane. “I hope whatever happens you’ll be happy,” he said. He leaned down and kissed her cheek. “You know I’ve adopted you as another sister. If you need anything at all, you call.” Lily brushed her tear filled eyes. “Thank you, Dirk. I’ll remember.” She watched as he strode across the ground to his truck. He waited and as the jet took off he waved. Lily leaned back in her seat and cried softly as the jet turned toward Texas. She didn’t know what was in front of her, but she’d left her heart behind.

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Chapter Eleven Ty hadn’t called. She’d been silly to think he might. Lily had been living with Angie and Brent for six weeks. Brent had finished teaching her to ride. She rode almost every morning. In the afternoon, she helped Angie with housework, or cooking, or just walking and enjoying developing a closer relationship with her sister. This morning when she returned from her ride, Angie met her at the door. “What is it?” Lily asked. She saw concern in Angie’s face. “Your father’s attorney called. Your father wants to see you before the trial starts.” Lily came in the back door and sank into one of the chairs in the large kitchen. Angie handed her a cup of hot chocolate. She gave Angie a wry smile. “It seems every time I get difficult news someone hands me a cup of chocolate. After this, whenever I drink hot chocolate, I’ll think of this time in my life.” “I’ll get you something else to drink, if you prefer,” Angie said. “No, this is fine.” Angie sat across from her. “Do you want to see him? You don’t have to, but if you do, Brent and I will be with you.” “What would I have done if this happened before I found you?” “You would have managed. You’re stronger than you think.” “I hope so. My legs feel weak right now.” She sipped her drink. “I’ve known sooner or later I’d need to see him and talk to him. For his sake and mine.” “When do you want to go?” “The sooner, the better. Do you know when the trial is?” “Brent talked with Glynes. I’m sure you remember, the FBI guy.

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He said they’re just about ready. The information they got from the safety deposit box helped move things along quicker.” “I haven’t forgotten Glynes. I’m glad he let us know. I can’t really start my life over until this is all settled.” Lily glanced at the clock. “I’ll go call the attorney before he goes to lunch.” “After lunch we’ll go walking. Brent said the cat had kittens. They’re in the corner of the barn. I want to see them. And we can talk about the trip to Philly.” Lily went to her bedroom and stood looking out across the lake. She flipped her cell open and punched in the numbers Angie had written on a slip of paper. “This is Mr. Rahn. How can I help you?” “You called me. I’m Lily Yannell.” “Ah yes, I left my private number so your call would come directly to me. Your father is anxious to speak with you. Will you come here and see him? I’ll arrange the meeting if you agree.” “When is his trial?” “Looks like it will start next week or the week after. I’ve suggested to your father that he let me delay it, but he says he wants to get it over with. I think he’s worried about you.” “I have to check with my sister and her husband. But I think I can arrange to be there by the end of this week.” “I’ll tell him. He’ll be glad. When you know for certain, let me know the exact date of your arrival.” “I will. Good-bye.” Lily shut her phone and walked out the French doors to the veranda. She sat in a rocker and remembered the man who’d been such a good father to her, who’d loved her and taken good care of her. Would she see him when she returned to Philly, or the monster the press vilified in both the newspapers and on the television? Her old life would definitely be gone when her father was sentenced. She’d stay and be at the trial. No matter what he did, he was her father and there was no one else to be there for him. But once

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his fate was decided, she had to go forward and find her life. She’d hoped it would be with Ty, but he hadn’t even called once. “Lily, there you are. Brent’s home. Come in and have lunch with us. You can tell us about your call and what you want to do.” Lily stood and Angie put her arm around her. “We’re in this together, Sis.” Brent stood as they entered the kitchen. “Two of the prettiest ladies in Texas.” He smiled at Angie and Lily. “I want to have a portrait done of you two. We’ll hang it in the living room.” “You should have one done of you and Angie,” Lily said as she joined him at the table. “I will, and I’ll put that one in my office.” Angie put a bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich in front of him. “My favorite,” he told Lily. “She spoils me and I love it.” Brent pulled Angie into his lap and rubbed across her growing tummy. “How’s our child behaving today?” “Very active.” Angie got up and put her and Lily’s plates on the table. Brent took a bite of sandwich and then a sip of his milk. “Angie told me about your call,” he said to Lily. “I called the lawyer. The trial may start next week. I thought I’d go the end of this week and see him. Then I’ll stay for the trial.” “Are you sure you want to sit through that?” Angie asked. “Yes. I have to do this for him and me. But it isn’t necessary for you two to be there.” Angie started to speak. Lily raised her hand. “No, Angie. You need to stay home and rest. And Brent, you want and need to be with her. I’m a big girl. I can do this on my own. I need to start standing on my own two feet. It will give me time to think about my future.” “We don’t want you there alone, Lily,” Brent protested. “I insist. But I appreciate your concern and your offer.” ****

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The metal door clanking shut behind Lily gave her an uneasy feeling. How must it feel if you were a prisoner and knew you couldn’t turn and ask the man to let you out? Lily clamped her hands tight on her purse. They’d checked the inside and let her take it with her. Once she got to the room where she’d see her father, she’d have to leave it outside. A tall, gray-haired man stepped forward. “Lily?” “Yes.” “I’m Mr. Rahn. I’d have met you outside, but your father had something to discuss and it took longer than I’d expected.” “That’s all right.” She glanced at the closed door behind him. “Do you want me to go in with you?” Mr. Rahn asked. She lifted her chin and took a deep breath. “No.” He walked to the door and opened it, motioning for her to go inside. A guard stood watching them. “Are there guards in there?” She nodded toward the door. “Not right inside, but they’ll be watching and listening.” “All right.” She handed her purse to the guard, squared her shoulders, and walked by the attorney and into the room. The door clicked shut behind her. Her father was sitting in a hard chair at a gray metal desk. He’d lost weight, and his hair was almost all gray now. He lifted his head when she came in the door. The room was barren and cold. She couldn’t stop the shiver that ran down her body. Slowly she walked to the table and sat across from him. A trembling hand reached out and covered hers. “Lily, I’ve so wanted to see you.” His gaze took all of her in. “Still as beautiful as ever.” Dark brown eyes like hers searched her face. “Do you hate me?” “Dad, I don’t know what I feel. I’ve always loved you. I can’t put you and this man they describe on television together. It just doesn’t match in my mind.” “I’m sorry”—he swept his hand around to encompass the room—

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“for this and for all the unhappiness I’ve brought into your life.” “You were a good father. I never suspected anything. My life was idyllic.” “And now I’ve made a mess of it for you. I understand you’ve been staying with your sister.” “For a little while. Before that I was with friends.” “My attorney is working with yours to try and get the money I made legitimately put into an account for you.” “I don’t need your money. There are people you hurt that need it more. Give it to them.” “You can’t stay with your sister forever.” He snarled the word sister. “Why do you hate her? She was an innocent pawn, like me, in whatever happened between you and our mother.” “That woman was a curse to me. The only good thing she did was to give me you.” He held tight to her hand. “Your trial will probably start next week.” “Yeah, unless I make a deal with the Feds.” “What kind of deal?” “A better prison, maybe fewer years.” “Are you going to take it?” “Do you want me to?” Lily blinked the tears away. “Do what’s best for you. Nothing can put things back the way they were. We both have to go forward in different directions.” For the first time she could remember, Lily saw tears in her father’s eyes. “Will you write me occasionally? Let me know you’re all right?” They stared across at each other, separated by more than the desk between them. In her mind, she saw the man who’d been the one constant in her life. She remembered his smile, his gentle touch, a kiss good night. No matter what had happened she couldn’t turn her back on him now.

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“I’ll write.” A flash of relief crossed his face. Lily stood. “Will they allow me to hug you?” Her father glanced at the camera in the corner. A burly guard came into the room. “You can come around the table, Ms. Yannell.” He unfastened the handcuffs but not the leg irons. Her father stood and held out his arms. Lily stepped into his embrace. She clasped him close. His body was frail and she felt him tremble. They stood silently, holding each other tight. He tipped her face toward his and kissed each cheek. “Go home. Have a good life, be happy.” She nodded and stepped back when the guard moved forward. “I’ll be in touch, Daddy.” But she knew she’d be in the courtroom on Monday. She walked to the door and stopped to force a smile and wave before she went out. The attorney had waited. “Do you need a ride to your hotel?” “No, thanks. I need to walk.” As quickly as she could she got out of the jail. Stepping outside, she took a deep breath of fresh air. Her mind was jumbled and her insides ached. She started walking through the streets toward the center of town. Later she never remembered how she crossed the busy streets, what she saw, nothing but putting one foot in front of the other. It was dusk when she got to her hotel and entered the lobby. A tall, lean man walked toward her. His hands reached out and pulled her tight against him. “Where have you been? I was so worried. If you hadn’t come in soon I planned to call the police,” Ty said. She cuddled closer to his warmth. She was so cold. His heart beat steady against her ear. “Lily, are you all right? They said you left the jail hours ago.” Leaning back she looked into the face she loved. “Where did you

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come from, Ty?” “I flew in from Montana. When Brent said you insisted on coming here alone, I decided to follow and be here if you needed me.” “I always needed you. But you don’t need or want me.” She backed away. “Go back to Montana and your memories.” “Let me take you to dinner. Just let me be with you for now.” Lily wanted him to stay so much. She didn’t have the strength to fight his offer. “I need to change.” “No problem. I’m on the fifth floor. Give me your room number. I’ll pick you up in an hour.” “Room 712. In an hour.” She left him staring after her and went to the elevator. When the door closed, she leaned against the cool metal wall. She was glad no one else was riding up with her. Her reflection stared back at her. She was pale, thinner, and looked tired. She hadn’t asked where they were going. Probably to one of the better restaurants. It was a good thing she’d brought one fancy dress with her. She had been going to call a girlfriend of hers and invite her out to dinner at one of their favorite spots. But Ty had arrived before she’d made the call. After unlocking her door, she went straight to the bed. Lying across the soft mattress, she closed her eyes. Her body had been unusually tired the past few weeks, and this week she’d had morning sickness twice. What was she going to do? Did she tell Ty that in spite of his desire not to be a father, fate had taken a hand, and she was almost certain she was pregnant? A hard laugh escaped her. Fate had a way of showing how little control you really had. Pushing herself, she got up and went into the bathroom to shower. She wouldn’t say anything to anyone until she knew for sure that her suspicions were right. ****

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Ty knocked on her hotel room door. His heart had dropped when she walked into the lobby. He’d been so worried, and then she was there looking beautiful and lost. When he held her in his arms his world felt right side up again. He’d been out of kilter since she’d left, but his stubborn pride had kept him from calling. When he finally got up his nerve, Brent had answered and told him she’d gone to Philadelphia. Her door opened. “You’re right on time. I just have to grab my bag and I’m ready.” She walked across to a small desk and picked up a black satin evening purse. Her dark blue cocktail dress fit snug on her trim figure. At the top, tiny stones sparkled in the light. Her lilac fragrance went straight to his head. She stepped out and shut the door behind her. “You are looking very handsome tonight, Mr. Terrell.” Her soft voice purred and slid like hot liquid through his veins. She intoxicated him. Cupping her elbow, he led her to the elevator. Several couples were already in the car when the door opened. They stood silent as it stopped at each floor until the lobby. “Brent told me about a quiet restaurant on the other side of town. Did you have a preference?” “No. Wherever is good with me.” Her warm, honey-colored eyes looked at him and sent his heart rate soaring. The limo he’d ordered slid to the curb. “For us?” “Yes.” He opened the door. “Will you join me?” She smiled and got inside. He got a good look at her sweet derriere, and his cock went straight to attention. When she was settled, he slid into the seat and moved right against her. “This is a big car. We don’t have to sit so close.” “I know.” He smiled at her. “I don’t think you’re Ty Terrell. You’re an alien, and you invaded his body.”

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“You’ve found me out.” He took her hand in his. “Tell me what was it that you didn’t like about this Ty fellow?” “It’s a long list.” Her eyes sparkled back at him. “We have all evening. But first let’s have a drink of champagne.” He pulled a bottle out of a holder of ice and poured the bubbly liquid into a glass. He handed the glass to her and poured his. “To the demise of this Ty character, and to you and me.” “Are you going to use his name, or do you have a name?” He loved that she was going along with his teasing. It might be easier to say what he had to while pretending to be someone else. “My name is Jeffrey,” Ty said, using his middle name. She turned her head to the side. “I like that. Does anyone ever call you Jeff?” “No, only you.” His fingers ran up her arm. Her pupils widened, and he heard the catch in her breath. “Your skin is incredibly soft.” “Someone else has told me that.” “Ah, this Ty fellow.” “Perhaps, and maybe a few others.” Ty pushed down the flash of jealousy that sparked inside him. “I’m not surprised. You’re a gorgeous woman. I’d like to take your clothes off right here and kiss your whole body.” “We hardly know each other.” “Then there’s no time to waste. But first, I will feed you.” He reached into another cooler and pulled out a bowl of strawberries that had been dipped in chocolate. Taking one, he put it up to her lips. Lily bit into the sweet, tasty combination. “Hmmm, wonderful.” She licked her lips. His cock pulsed, demanding attention. Ty pushed a button and curtains closed on the windows. The partition between the driver and them was already shut. He picked up a phone and spoke into it. “Take us for a long drive. I’ll let you know when to head for the restaurant.” “Won’t that cost you a lot of money?”

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“I have the car reserved for the night.” His hand lay on her leg at the short hemline of her skirt. “I think we should become better acquainted before we go to the restaurant.” Lily set her glass into a nearby holder. Taking hold of his jacket lapels, she pulled him against her. “You are absolutely right.” She tasted of strawberries and chocolate. He devoured her mouth, tasting, touching, wrapping his tongue around hers. Their bodies strained to be closer. Dipping his hand inside her low bodice, he cupped her soft-as-down breast and ran his thumb across her tight nipple. Her moan sent desire thumping throughout his body. His cock was so hard and needy it strained against the zipper holding it back. Ty slid her down on the seat and reached under her dress to pull off her bikini panties. When he unzipped his pants, his cock sprang free. All the time he kissed her delectable mouth. Her lush, warm body spread under him. His fingers rubbed across her nub and along her wet folds. She was ready for him. Her desire had flushed her face pink. Her body rose up to where his hand was touching. He couldn’t wait. It had been too long. He placed his cock at her opening and surged inside her warm, tight, wet pussy. Her inner muscles hugged him and clenched and unclenched as he pounded into her. Damn, she felt so good. His hunger was fierce. He held back as long as he could, enjoying the taste of her mouth and the tight pussy below caressing his cock. Heat, desire, and love swirled inside his body and heart. All his doubts had gone for good when he saw her again. **** Lily took in a deep breath, enjoying his musky scent. His wide cock filled her. Her blood had heated and her hunger had her gripping him tight. She was afraid any moment she’d wake up and find it was all a dream. The Ty she’d known before had been irresistible, but this

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teasing Ty drew her to him even more. He raised his head. His dark blue eyes stared into hers as he pushed in hard and held tight, sending them both over the edge. Afterward, he held her close. “I’ve missed you.” “You didn’t call.” “Neither did you. And my stubborn pride was determined to wait for you. When I couldn’t stand it any longer, I gave in. Brent told me where to find you.” “You went to a lot of trouble.” Ty grinned. “Not as much as you caused me when you were in Montana.” She laughed. “I guess you’re right.” Pushing him aside, she reached for her panties and straightened her dress. “I can’t believe I allowed you to make love to me in a limousine.” “We Terrell boys manage one way or another to get what we want.”

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Chapter Twelve His sexy mouth had curved up, and his eyes flashed. Her heart jumped. But doubt came back as she wondered what he really wanted. She definitely couldn’t agree to a marriage without children, even if she wasn’t pregnant. Ty rubbed a finger across her wrinkled forehead. “Quit frowning. Tonight is for enjoying. Remember, I’m Jeff. Forget that other guy.” “I’ll try. But I keep expecting him to jump out from around a corner.” He picked up the phone. “You can take us to the restaurant now.” Lily felt her face get red when they stopped and the chauffeur held the door for them. “I’m sure he knows exactly what was going on in the back,” she whispered to Ty as they walked into the waiting area. “I love your blush. Stop worrying. He’s paid to ignore the people in the back.” Ty nodded to the maître d’ and gave him his name. “Just this way, Sir.” He led them into the dining room. The furniture was decorated with plush red velvet material. Huge crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, scattering diamond-like prisms of light across the room and its patrons. The music of Tommy Dorsey’s band played, through hidden speakers, in the background. Women were dressed in cocktail dresses or long gowns, and the men in suits or tuxes. Lily glanced at Ty in his dark blue suit. The chandeliers made the gold in his brown hair glisten. She noted women’s eyes following them as they walked across the room to a secluded corner. “Does this meet your request?” the waiter asked Ty. “Perfect. Thank you.” He pulled back a chair for Lily.

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Their table was arranged to face a window and the lovely fountain sitting in the middle of a small courtyard. Large plants gave them some privacy from the other diners. “Do you like the restaurant, so far?” “It’s lovely and intriguing. I’m glad we came here.” She smiled at him. He’d sat in the seat closest to her rather than across the table. Their waiter arrived with menus. “May I get you a cocktail?” Ty looked at her. She started to order wine but decided against it. “Only water for me, but please have a drink,” she said to Ty. “After all, we have a driver.” “Sure you won’t join me?” “No, thank you.” She’d already had a sip or two of champagne. She’d better not drink alcohol until she saw a doctor. After the waiter brought Ty’s drink and they’d given their order, he lifted his glass. “To the prettiest lady I know.” “What brought you here, Ty? I thought we were at an impasse when I left Montana.” “You gave me a lot of time to think. But let’s leave this conversation until later. Tell me are you going back to Texas tomorrow?” “No. My father’s trial starts next Monday. They’ve worked fast to get him into court. I need to be here. Otherwise, he won’t have anyone. No matter what he’s done, I can’t turn my back on him.” “I’d like to fly you to Texas. We’ll spend the weekend with Brent and Angie, then I’ll fly you back in time for the start of the trial. Will you go with me?” She’d been dreading the long weekend alone. But did she want to get her hopes up and have them dashed again? The waiter brought their food. Her grilled mahi-mahi was delicious and so were the vegetables grilled along with it. Ty kept a running commentary on what had been happening at the ranch. Several times he had her laughing. If he could be this way, instead of the quick-to-anger man she’d

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known during most of her visit there, then she doubted she could resist whatever he offered. But could this mood last? “Would you like dessert?” Ty asked when the waiter brought a tray of delectable desserts to the table to tempt them. “The chocolate cake looks delicious. I’ll have a small piece,” Lily said and hoped she wouldn’t regret it later. She ate every drop and licked her spoon. Glancing at Ty she saw the hunger in his eyes, but not for the cake. An impish desire to taunt him took hold of her. She scraped another dollop of frosting from the plate and leisurely licked the spoon while keeping eye contact with him. A muscle twitched in his cheek and he held his lips tight. “Let’s get the hell out of here, darlin’, before I embarrass both of us.” He quickly paid the bill. With his arm around her waist, he hurried her out to the limo. “Straight to the hotel,” he told the driver. Lily didn’t say anything. She sat with her hand on his thigh. His muscle was tight, and she thought she heard his teeth grind. In the hotel he guided her to the elevators. When the door closed, leaving them alone, Ty grabbed her and pushed her against the cool wall. His hips ground into hers. “You are going to pay for that performance.” His voice was low and husky and had her insides quivering with delight and expectation. Her hand shook, and the key missed the lock. Ty took over and had them in the door in seconds. The latch snapped shut, and his hands had her zipper down and her dress off in record time. Stunned, he stared at her body, clad only in a tiny lace bra and matching bikini panties. Stepping back, he sank into the nearest chair and removed his shoes, socks, pants, and shirt before walking toward her again. Ty’s fine, toned body lent a grace to his movements. His expression threatened retaliation. She grinned and moved to the right, then left, barely avoiding him catching her. He stalked her like a sleek cat toying with her. And then he lunged, grabbed her, and carried her into the bedroom.

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He laid her on the bed and leaned over her. “Forget about before. Pretend I’m Jeff. We’re starting fresh.” His mouth captured her lips. She gasped, and his tongue slid sensuously inside her mouth, tasting, teasing, gliding around her tongue. Her lower abdomen pulsed with desire, her pussy and lower lips moist with her need. He buried his face in her neck and sucked on the soft skin. Moving down, he unfastened her bra and threw it to the side. Cupping her breasts, he licked each rosy nipple and blew a whisper of breath across, making her shiver in delight. His hard cock pulsed against her abdomen. She reached down and curled her hand around him. “Ah, I’ve missed your sweet touch. I can’t get the picture of your face out of my head, or your taste and fragrance out of my senses. But tonight is about you.” He gently removed her hand from around his dick. “If you give me too much attention in that area we won’t be playing long. It’ll all be over. I’ve been longing for you.” He slid down and went between her legs. Separating her folds, he brushed his tongue across her most sensitive spot. She moaned and raised her hips. “Ah, so you like that.” “Yes, you know I do.” His lips continued down her legs, kissing, nuzzling, and raising her temperature to boiling hot. Ty sat at her feet and massaged her instep, her toes, all along her foot. Pleasure enveloped her. “Turn over.” His deep, husky voice flowed along her skin like a silken caress. Obediently, she rolled. Something cool was dribbled on her back, and then his warm hands massaged the scented lotion into her skin. Muscles held tight since she’d gotten the call regarding visiting her father began to loosen, and nights without much sleep caught up with her. Her eyes drooped. She tried to rouse herself. “Sleep, darlin’, it’s all right. I’ll be right here.” His hands

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continued to rub her shoulders, her arms, and her back, then along her legs. She felt like a rag doll, all her muscles loose. Finally, she couldn’t fight it any longer and she slipped into sleep. **** Ty kept rubbing her back for a few more minutes until, very gradually, he stopped. He pulled the covers up over them and pulled her close to his side. Unconsciously, she moved her head to his shoulder and her leg across his thigh. Her sweet scent filled his nostrils. He’d planned to get her to relax. Then he’d take her from behind, but when he saw how tired she was he knew she needed the sleep more. The last eight months or more had been difficult for her, and he hadn’t made it any easier. While she was gone he had done some real soul searching. He didn’t like what he saw. She’d been right. He had been a coward running away from life. But Lily needed him, and he needed her, the sunlight, the hope, the love she brought with her. Lily stirred and opened her eyes. “I went to sleep on you.” “I must be losing my charm. I’m quite devastated,” he said and kissed her mouth. “Really, you’re tired. Go back to sleep. I’m going to dress and go to my room. When you’re awake and ready in the morning, give me a call.” Her head nodded. She curled into a ball and went right back to sleep. Moving silently in the dark, he got his clothes on, left, and checked to make sure the door locked behind him. Tomorrow he’d see about them getting a suite together. Whatever happened in the future, he was going to be by her side, unless she sent him away. He couldn’t blame her if she did. But he planned to work on her until she changed her mind. Tomorrow, they’d have their talk.

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**** Lily had put Ty off until lunchtime. He’d called and asked her to breakfast. She’d made an excuse. Eating the chocolate cake had not been a wise decision. Her stomach had rebelled. She sat on the side of the tub hoping the nausea was over for the day. If she could slip away from Ty, she’d find a drugstore and buy a pregnancy kit. She was wary of Ty’s change, afraid it wouldn’t last. Her nerves were rattled enough with her father’s trial ready to begin. She didn’t need Ty upsetting her, too. Maybe flying to Texas for the weekend was a good idea. She’d never given him an answer last night. Feeling more steady and with a calmer stomach, she showered and dressed. Just in time. Ty knocked on her door. “Hi, beautiful.” He stepped inside and pulled her into his arms. For a minute, she let herself lean into his warmth and enjoy feeling safe. Safe from all the changes in her life that she’d had no control over. If only she could depend on him being here for the long haul. At that thought she pushed him back. “I thought you came to feed me.” “I did. I’ve rented a car. We’ll find a place to eat lunch and do some sightseeing. That is, if you want to, or we can come back here and make love.” He grinned at her. “Let’s start with the food and see after that.” They started out the door when the phone rang. Lily ran back and grabbed the receiver. “Hello, this is Lily Yannell.” “Ms. Yannell, this is Mr. Rahn, your father’s attorney.” “What do you want, Mr. Rahn?” “My call regards your father. He has agreed to share with the FBI information on other groups and individuals in exchange for a plea bargain.” “Why would he do that? From what he said to me yesterday, I didn’t think he’d made a decision.” “He decided after seeing you. I suspect he loves you too much to

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put you through the trial and all the ensuing ugliness in the news.” “What sentence is he going to get?” Lily was aware Ty had moved to stand behind her. Now he put his arms around her waist. She leaned into his strength. “Life in prison, no parole.” “But how is that a plea agreement? That was the max he’d get anyway.” “No. There was a chance he’d be found guilty of murder and get the death penalty. But the evidence wasn’t as strong as the rest.” The words shook her. She’d tried to deny in her mind that her father was capable of murder, and yet she knew he’d tried to strangle her sister. She’d been kidding herself all along. He was as bad as all those reporters had said. Feeling weak in the knees, Lily said good-bye. Ty put the phone down and carried her to a chair, where he sat and held her. The phone rang again. Ty sat her on the chair and answered it. “Hello.” Lily watched his expression. Her protector was frowning. She liked having him take charge, for now. Not always. She wasn’t a weakling, or at least not usually. Just today, she’d let him be in control. “I’ll talk with her and get back with you.” He wrote down something on a pad and hung up. Tearing off a sheet of paper, he came back, picked her up, and sat back down with her. “That was Rahn again. As part of the plea agreement your father has requested one more visit with you before he’s transferred. They want to make the transfer soon. Do you want to see him?” She’d had her head lying against his chest. Straightening up, she faced him. “I’ll feel bad if I don’t. It’s so confusing. He has two such different sides to him. My father, the one I knew, was not the man they’ll sentence to life in prison. The side I saw must have been an incredible act.” “An act of love. I believe in his own way he loved you. You’re

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probably the only person he ever did love.” She kissed his mouth. “Thank you for saying that and for being here with me during all of this. I’m usually not such a baby. I’m very independent.” He ran his fingers across her lips. “I know. You got up and left me. You set your limits on what you’d agree to, and I respect that. This isn’t the time or the way I’d planned to have this talk, but we’d better. “After you left, I was devastated. Full of bluster and anger, I’d not admitted to myself how important you’d become in my life.” He smiled. “Dirk called me an ass. He was right.” “He didn’t?” “Yes, he did. Anyway, I had time to think about you and me, and about my behavior these past years. You were right. I was a coward.” She put her hand over his mouth. “No, you weren’t. I said that in anger. You had a terrible loss. I’ve never experienced anything remotely like what you went through.” Ty shook his head. “Don’t go soft on me now. There may be times in the future when you’ll have to tell me the hard truth. I hope not, but if it’s needed I want you to do it.” Sadness swept through her. They didn’t have a future, especially not when she told him she was probably pregnant. He pulled her close and kissed her mouth. “Please don’t be sad. At least not about us. I finally have my head on straight and it’s going to stay that way. I’ve put my family and you through enough anguish. I’m ready to start living again. If Candice could have talked to me, she’d have said, ‘Stop being an ass. Enjoy your life.’ She was always a realist.” “Candice must have been a wonderful woman.” “She was. So are you. I want to live and enjoy my life with you in it.” He cupped her face. “I love you, Lily.” “And I love you, but I want a family, and you don’t. Even if I agreed to marry you, after a while that would ruin our relationship. I’d

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resent that you didn’t want to have children with me.” “That was the stupidest thing I ever said. I love kids. You’ve seen me with my niece and nephew. You were right. Our life wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t try to have children. Hopefully we will. You said you wanted a whole house full.” “Three or four might be plenty.” Lily loved his smile and the way his blue eyes shone with a brightness they hadn’t had before. His shout of laughter made her grin. Ty sat her in the chair and knelt before her. “Will you marry me, Lily, and make me very happy?” He held a diamond ring in his hand. “You’re sure?” “Positive, and don’t worry about that Ty guy coming back. Jeff will keep him in control.” Laughing, she pulled him up and threw herself into his arms. “I love Ty and Jeff.” “Well, you’ll have to marry us both,” he teased. “I will. Please marry me and take me home.” He swung her around in joy until he saw her expression. “What is it?” “Put me down.” He did and she ran for the bathroom. He followed her. There was nothing left in her stomach. She had the dry heaves. Ty held a wet, cool washcloth to her head. “Shall I call the hotel doctor?” “No. I’m better.” Helping her to her feet, he picked her up and carried her to the bedroom and sat her on the side of the bed. “I’m sorry. The news about your father had you upset. With this other excitement I should have known better than to twirl you.” “It wasn’t any of those reasons that made me sick.” She saw the puzzled look on his face. “I should have said we will marry you.” It took him a second before she saw him realize what she’d meant.

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“You’re pregnant?” “Possibly, probably. I’ve been having morning sickness for the last few days. If you want to take back that proposal—” He kissed her. “I meant what I said. I do want us to have children. This is a little sooner than I’d planned. I’d hoped to have time to spoil you first. But”—he touched her flat stomach—“I can’t wait to see our child growing in you. I’ll admit you’ll probably be smothered with attention by me and my family. But we’ll make it through this time, and however many more times we’re blessed.” “Oh.” She uttered the word and started crying. “What did I say to upset you?” “You were wonderful.” She started crying again. Ty kicked off his shoes and lay beside her on the bed. He pulled her into his arms. “Let it all out. After you rest we’ll go see you father and then fly to Texas. It’s easier for us to go to the family there than for all of them to try and fly into Montana in this weather.” He smoothed her hair back from her forehead and wiped the tears off her cheeks. “What do you think about having our wedding by the lake at Brent and Angie’s home? We don’t want to wait, do we?” “No, we don’t. If Angie and Brent agree it would be a beautiful setting for our wedding.” “Good. I’ll handle everything. Mom and Dad can join us there. Do you mind having a small wedding?” “It will be perfect. Call and see when we can go to the jail, and then I’d like to leave Philadelphia.” She watched his tall, lean figure walk to the phone. He was so handsome and sexy. It was difficult to believe that shortly he’d be all hers. She glanced at the large, square-cut diamond with baguettes on the side. “Do you like it? If not we, can exchange it.” Ty had come back into the bedroom. Lily held her hand to her chest. “Don’t you dare touch it. I love

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the ring. It’s perfect.” “Good, that’s settled. Do you feel up to going in an hour or so to the jail?” “Yes, and then can we fly to Angie’s?” “I’ll call Angie and Brent. I just checked and the jail expects us sometime this afternoon.” While Ty talked on the phone, Lily changed her wrinkled blouse and put on a little more makeup to hide her paleness. She arranged her hair into a neat bun. She looked presentable. “We can go anytime you’re ready to see your father. Angie and Brent are excited about us coming for a visit.” “Did you tell them our surprise?” “No.” He sauntered across the room, and her heartbeat raced. Bending down he kissed her again, softly. “Ah, sweet thing, I’m so glad you decided to say yes. I left the surprise for you to tell them. Other than letting your father know, we’ll savor it to ourselves for a while longer.” Standing on her tiptoes, she wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned against his muscled frame. “I can’t wait until we’re man and wife and back home alone in Montana.” “I thought we might take off and go to Drake’s island for some warm weather. It would be just you and me.” “Can you take that much time off and leave everything to Dirk?” “He wouldn’t mind.” “I’ll think about it. Where will we live on the ranch?” “Mom and Dad want to take over my cabin. Mom said the house is too big for her to keep up with anymore. They want us to take the house.” “You’re sure they’re not just being nice?” “They probably are, but I’m sure they want to do this for us. And they’ll insist when they hear we’re expecting.” He smiled and touched her abdomen again. “You look like a different man when you’re relaxed and smiling.”

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“I’d rather you not remember that angry guy. I knew when I first saw you that I was attracted to you. I fought it, being a stubborn Terrell. Still, you kept getting more and more important to me. After you left, I realized how stupid I’d been to lose you.” “You felt guilty about caring for another woman.” “Yes, no one had touched my heart since Candice. My body fought with my head. I couldn’t keep my hands off of you, and every time I weakened I verbally pushed you away.” He sat beside her on the bed and held her close. “I never had admitted to anyone about how guilty I felt for not staying with her that day. She and her mom and mine encouraged me to go back to work. Stupid me, I did, and then I got back too late. The hospital was over an hour away. She and the baby were gone. “You might think I’m silly, but we’re moving to a big town, with a large, fully equipped delivery and nursery, for the last three months of your pregnancy. At least for this first one. Then we’ll renegotiate about the next.” “That’s a long time for you to be away from the ranch.” “It won’t be in the heart of winter and Dirk can manage. We’ll hire an extra hand or two if needed. Please humor me in this.” “All right. But if we have more children, we’ll do as you offered and renegotiate. It’s time to go see my father and get on our way to Texas.” “Yes, madam, and on the way we’ll stop and get you some tea and crackers.”

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Chapter Thirteen Ty followed her inside the jail. He’d already told her he wanted to meet her father. A guard escorted them down a long hall, stopped, and opened the door. Lily walked in. Ty followed. Yannell sat at a gray metal table. His graying hair needed a cut. His face was gaunt, but his brown eyes brightened when he saw Lily. When Ty stepped in behind her, Yannell raised his eyebrows. “Who’s he?” he asked Lily. “This is Ty Terrell. You know I’ve been staying with his family. Ty has asked me to marry him, and I’ve accepted.” Yannell frowned. “Isn’t this fast? Are you doing this because you don’t have any money? I—” She motioned for him to stop. “I’m marrying him because I love him.” “Still seems fast.” Yannell squinted his eyes at Ty. Ty sat in the chair next to Lily. “I love her, and I’ll take good care of her.” Ignoring Ty, Yannell looked at Lily. “Part of my agreement was to have the money from my legitimate business go to you. You will have enough to be independent.” He glared at Ty. “You won’t need to marry anyone.” “Dad, did you know someone sent some men after me? They kidnapped me and would have killed me, but Ty, the Sheriff, and Ty’s brothers rescued me. Ty and I have been through a lot. We love each other. We’re going to have a baby. I’ll have the family I always dreamed of.” Tears came into Yannell’s eyes. “I tried to be a good father.”

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“You were, except for this. I’ll never understand. You had plenty of money. Why?” Yannell stared at Lily. Ty watched as the two looked into each other’s eyes. Finally, Yannell shrugged. “I enjoyed the challenges, the power, and the money. But I never wanted to endanger your life. Mr. Rahn told me this morning that the FBI got information out of the men who took you and they have arrested the man who planned it all. He used to be one of my friends, but we’d had a falling out.” Yannell’s expression hardened. “They’ll be going to jail, too, for a long time. You won’t have to worry about them anymore.” Lily was shocked by his words. “Having a home with my mother and me wasn’t enough? Of course not. She and my sister ran from you in fear. I’ll never understand, and I can’t condone what you did. And your actions put my life in serious danger.” Yannell’s chained hands reached toward her. “Please don’t hate me. I’m sorry for the hurt I’ve caused you. I never thought about my actions endangering you. I was stupid. Please believe me, I do love you.” “I know. I love the man who raised me.” She squeezed his hands. Ty put his arm around her shoulder. Yannell glanced at him. “Thanks for saving her. I guess I can stop worrying about her welfare.” He gave a harsh laugh. “You must think I should have thought about her safety sooner and quit.” “What’s happened can’t be undone,” Ty said. Her father took a deep breath. “Will you keep in touch as you said the other day?” “I’ll write and send pictures.” “We’ll get your address on the way out,” Ty added. He motioned to the guard watching through the door. When he came in, Ty asked, “Can you unfasten his wrist chains long enough for her to hug her father?” “Sure, if I stay in the room.” “Go ahead.” Ty motioned to him. Lily threw him a grateful smile.

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Yannell looked at him, surprised. The guard unfastened the wrist shackles. Yannell held out his arms, and Lily went into them. Ty and the guard waited as the two said their final good-bye. Eyes blurry with tears, Lily turned to Ty. He put his arm around her. For a second, he felt sorry for the man hunched over, his face pale and his eyes bleak. But he’d chosen his path. Lily was the innocent one hurt by his decisions. He held her close and guided her out of the jail. He got her into his rental car and went around to the driver’s seat. Lily was bent over crying. Ty pulled her into his arms. “Cry it out, baby. When you’re ready we’ll go to the hotel and check out and fly to Texas. I’m sure Brent, Angie, and the others will be glad to see us.” She sobbed for several minutes. His heart ached and he wished he knew what was the best thing to say, but maybe just being here was enough. Finally, she raised her head and gave him a watery smile. “I’m sorry for soaking your shirt.” She patted her hand on the wet spot. “No problem. My shoulder is always available for you.” His words brought a faint grin to her face. “I’m ready to leave this town behind.” She sat straight in her seat. Ty turned on the ignition and headed for the hotel. He noticed she didn’t look back. He took charge. While Lily rested he settled the bill, and called the family. He couldn’t resist telling them the good news. He asked them to be at the airport to greet them. It would be a surprise for Lily. Finally, he checked to be sure the plane was ready and waiting for them. In less than two hours they were on their way to Texas. Lily was weak and washed out from the emotional upheaval As soon as the plane’s light came on to unfasten the seat belts, Ty stood and undid hers. “There’s a perfectly comfortable bedroom in the back of this

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plane. I’m going to put you to bed, and you are going to sleep. You need the rest.” He patted her belly. “And so does our son or daughter.” “Are you sure you don’t mind that I’m pregnant? You’re not just being nice because you don’t have any other recourse?” “I came to Philadelphia to ask you to marry me. To tell you I wanted it all, you, children, the whole works. Remember, I love you. I’m sorry I put you through so much before I came to my senses. I’m just glad you didn’t throw me out.” Lily grinned. “I didn’t have the heart or the strength to do that.” He carried her to the back and pushed a door open. Inside was a luxurious suite, bedroom, and bath. Ty placed her on the bed, helped her take off her clothes, and tucked her under the covers. “I thought you were coming to bed with me?” She reached her arms up toward him. “I will later. I’m going to talk with the pilot. I’ll be back.” He turned off the lights and went through the lounge area to knock on the door to the cockpit. The pilot and copilot grinned at him as he came inside. “My fiancée isn’t feeling well. She’s lying down. Buzz us back in the bedroom suite about forty-five minutes before landing time.” “Sure, Ty, no problem. I noticed she was pale when she came onboard. Anything else you need?” the pilot asked. “No. Talk with you later.” Ty walked slowly back to Lily. He could have called on the intercom, but he had wanted to give her a chance to fall asleep. She needed it, and if he’d lain down beside her right then they might have forgotten, at least temporarily, about sleep. He would have. His desire for her had not abated one bit, but he knew she needed his strength right now more than anything else. She’d curled into a ball under the covers and was fast asleep. Ty undressed and carefully slid into bed beside her. He pulled her into his arms. Her warm body snuggled up to him and she sighed.

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“You smell good.” Her soft breath brushed across his neck, causing his cock to harden. But as she settled and went back to sleep, he relaxed and enjoyed having her in his arms, safe and secure. He couldn’t wait to put the wedding ring on her finger and make her his for sure. Doing without her this past month and a half had taught him a hard lesson. He grinned to himself. She might be small, but she was strong and determined, and would definitely keep him on his toes. He must have dozed. He woke to feel small, warm hands roving over his body. “You are living dangerously,” he warned. “I hope so.” Lily moved her leg along his. “I woke to find a sexy cowboy in bed with me. All mine to play with.” Her hand slid up the inside of his leg and wrapped around his already hard, aching cock. “Look what I found.” She raised her head and smiled that sweet, dazzling look that made his heart catch. “What do you plan to do with it?” Her hand moved slowly up and down his length, while her lips kissed his chest and her tongue rubbed across his nipples. “I thought I’d start here and work my way down.” “Sounds like a good plan to me.” Ty lay back and let her kiss and tease his body. Eventually, her warm mouth closed around his dick and a shot of pleasure zinged up his spine. Her tongue licked the top of his cock. It was all he could do not to pull her up and bury himself in her hot pussy. He forced himself to lie still and let her take the lead. When she cupped his balls and sucked on his dick, he groaned and ran his hands through her soft hair. “Ah, sweetheart, I want to come inside you. Come here.” Lily raised her head. “You’re sure you want me to stop the attention I’m giving to this area?” “For now, yes.” Before she said another word or could move, he had her under him. His legs wrapped around hers and he held her head between his hands and stared into her eyes. “Are you sure you’re up to this?”

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“I’m positive.” His mouth covered hers. She opened and his tongue swept inside tasting her, caressing the warm interior. “I’ll spend the next fifty years making up for the past few months,” he promised. He kissed her neck and the curve of neck and shoulder. Then his hands cupped her breasts, and he rubbed his tongue across each taut nipple. She moaned and moved under him. Sliding down he kissed her abdomen and nuzzled her mound. Her particular fragrance filled his nostrils, increasing his desire to be inside her. He separated her luscious, pink folds and rubbed his tongue across her clit. “Fill me, take me,” she groaned. Ty spread her legs and put his pulsing cock at her pussy opening. “Ready for me, darlin’?” “Yes.” He slid into warmth and a snug tightness. It was like coming home. For a second, he held still and gazed at her face. She gave him a slow, loving smile. “How about we do this easy,” he said as he began to move very slowly deeper inside her. He kept their gazes locked as his cock stroked her inner walls that clasped him close. When he felt the ripples start inside her, he quickened his pace and took them both up into sheer pleasure together. She held him close even when he tried to move off of her. “I’m too heavy. Let me roll to the side and hold you.” Reluctantly, she loosened her grip. As soon as he lay beside her, he pulled her against him. “Sleep for a few minutes. We’ll have to get up and dress before long.” Nuzzling her head under his chin and her leg over his thigh, she closed her eyes and soon was asleep. He lay awake enjoying the feel of her. For the first time in years, he was happy and content. ****

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Lily woke to find Ty dressing. His hair was damp. “You showered without me.” “If we’d showered together the plane would have landed, and we’d still be naked.” “I suppose you’re right. Do I have time to get cleaned up?” “Sure. I was getting ready to wake you. You have about forty minutes before we have to be in our seats.” She got out of bed and started to the bathroom. The heat of Ty’s gaze had her glancing back. “Regretting your decision?” “In a way, but it was best for you.” She grinned and wiggled her hips before she closed the bathroom door. “I’ll make you sorry for taunting me later,” he said. “I hope so,” Lily said, looking around the edge of the door. “In fact I’m counting on it.” She laughed, and he heard the water in the shower come on. Deciding the best way to keep control was to leave the bedroom, he walked out to the lounge to wait. **** When the plane door opened and they stepped out on the ramp, Lily saw everyone was waiting. She turned her head toward Ty. “You told them about our engagement?” “Yep, when I called just before we left. I couldn’t keep the good news to myself any longer.” He grinned at her. “From the looks of it I think we’re in for a celebration. You don’t mind, do you?” “No. It sounds wonderful.” She started down the steps and Angie walked toward the ramp. “You’re getting bigger, big sister.” “That I am.” Angie hugged her. “I’m so glad you and Ty finally got together. You’ll have to tell me all the details when we get alone.”

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She greeted Ty and gave him a hug. “About time you came to your senses.” “True. How are you?” “I’m fine. Come on, it’s time to start celebrating,” Angie said. Ty’s brothers and their friend Jackson shook his hand and slapped him on the shoulder. “Glad to have you join our ranks,” they teased him. “You know Jackson started this all when he decided to get married. I came to the wedding and met Janice and it was all over for the rest of us after that,” Drake said. “I think we all have to thank Jackson and Samantha.” They all laughed and gave Samantha and Jackson a cheer. At Jackson’s ranch house, the grill was smoking and Samantha had put out a spread of salads, baked beans, and corn on the cob. She poured Angie, Lily, Janice, and herself a soda. “Here’s to a very happy marriage.” Samantha raised her glass. Janice and the sisters joined in. Lily glanced outside and saw the four men laughing and talking as the barbecue cooked. Warmth spread through her. She was going to have the large extended family she’d always dreamed about. When Ty saw her glance, he winked and her pulse rate increased. The women sat around the small kitchen table. “Tell us what happened,” Angie said. She gave them a quick rundown about seeing her father, finding Ty at the hotel, his proposal, and her last visit to her dad. “That must have been difficult,” Samantha said. “It was. The second visit Ty went with me. Him being at my side made it bearable.” “Thank goodness he was there,” Janice said. “Drake and Brent were both convinced he loved you and would propose. We just weren’t sure when until his last call.” Angie nodded. “And we thought you two would enjoy a barbecue and a chance to celebrate. I hope we were right.” She studied her

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sister’s face. “Can’t you tell by my big grin?” Lily asked. Her friends laughed and each got up and came around to hug her. Lily blinked to keep the tears from falling. “Honey.” Ty spoke from behind her chair. She hadn’t noticed him walk up. “Shall we tell them the surprise you gave me after I’d proposed?” Lily knew he’d specified after the proposal so the others would be aware he’d planned to marry her before knowing about the baby. “Do you think we should?” Lily asked, teasingly. “I do.” “Maybe we ought to wait and tell them about seven and a half months from now,” Lily said. Angie looked puzzled as did the others for a few seconds, and then all of them started smiling. Angie jumped back up and hugged Lily. “You’re going to have a baby?” “I am.” All the women and their husbands, who’d joined the circle, stared at Ty after Lily’s statement. Ty put up his hands in defense. “Don’t look at me. I’m fine, I’m happy.” He put his hand on Lily’s shoulder. “We’re both happy.” Leaning down he kissed her cheek. He stood and looked at each of the others. “I’ve been stupid and an ass, but when Lily left me I realized what I was losing by letting her go. I love her.” Lily saw the expressions relax. Drake and Brent each hugged Ty, and then Jackson and the women followed. “I’m pretty sure I’m speaking for all of us men,” Jackson said. “We’ve never been happier than since we got married.” Drake and Brent both nodded. “I’ve been lucky before, and I know Lily and I are going to be very happy. I’m going to do whatever I need to see that we are. In fact, I’ll use Dad’s remedy and start getting used to saying, ‘yes, dear.’” This brought on another round of laughter.

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“When’s the wedding?” Angie asked. “If it’s all right with you and Brent, we thought we’d get married by your lake as soon as Mom and Dad can get here,” Ty said. Angie glanced at Brent and then said, “Fine with us.” She glanced at Janice and Samantha. “We’ll have fun decorating and planning the ceremony and reception afterwards.” Ty flipped open his phone. “I’m calling Mom and Dad right now with the news.”

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Chapter Fourteen Lily came out of the doctor’s office. Angie had waited in the lobby. She stood, and they walked out to her truck. “Would you like to eat in town or head straight back?” “Lunch sounds good. With the morning sickness I don’t keep much down until now, and then I’m hungry.” Billie greeted them when they walked in the diner. “I can never get over how much you two look alike.” She glanced around them. “Just you two today?” “Yes, can we sit over in the corner where we can have a bit of privacy?” Angie asked. “You got it, sweetie.” Billie led them to the last table on the right. “Here are your menus. I’ll be back in a minute. Do you want me to bring coffee?” “Ice water for both of us,” Angie said. Billie hurried off. “We’ll wait and talk after she returns.” Billie came right back with their water and took their order. The place was not crowded. It was only eleven, a little early for the main crowd. “Now, what did the doctor say, and did you like her?” “I did like her, very much. She says I’m healthy. I told her about Ty’s fears from his previous experience. She said that was very unusual, and to tell him I’m healthy.” “Good. He’s done an about-turn regarding marriage and family. Brent and Drake say he is like the brother they knew all their lives. They give you credit for helping him return to his old self.” “He was getting there. Us meeting and falling in love just speeded

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up the process. Can we stop at the post office? I’m hoping the dress I ordered for my wedding in two days will have arrived.” “Sure, we’ll stop on our way home. The decorations go up tomorrow. Janice, who loves to cook, is doing most of the food. I’m cooking the wedding cake tonight and decorating it.” “I can never thank you all enough. This is great. Ty and Brent will have brought their mom and dad from the landing strip at Jackson’s to your ranch by the time we get home,” Lily said. “They’re so sweet and loving. I talked with them on the phone last night.” Lily bit into the large hamburger Billie had put in front of her. “This tastes good. If I don’t watch out my waist will be too big. I won’t fit into my gown.” “No worry. You’re still small. Wait until you get as big as me.” Angie patted her stomach. “The doctor said this being the first baby it could happen anytime now. Let’s hope we get through your wedding.” **** Ty and Lily had chosen early morning with the sun coming up over the water. An arbor decorated with yellow and white roses had been arranged at lakeside, and chairs were set on either side of a long satin runner. A slight breeze blew across the lake. Lily looked out the window while Angie buttoned up the zillion buttons on the back of her cream-colored gown. “The weather is perfect.” She turned as Angie finished. “And the wedding cake is phenomenal, fancy decorations and all. You could go into business.” “I enjoy baking. I’m thinking about starting a small business here at home. I have my huge kitchen. I’d bake for the locals, cakes, cookies, pies, and so forth.” “That’s a great idea. What does Brent say?” “He’s all for anything I want to do. I’ll substitute teach and bake. That way I can have more free time at home.”

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“Better watch out. When the locals taste your goodies, you may have more business than you want.” “I’ll keep it under control. Now let me look at you.” Angie stepped back. “That cream color looks good on you. And I like the style. The high neck and low waistline, and then it flares out. Perfect. Here’s your veil.” Angie handed the fine lace to Lily, and she put it on her head. She’d left her long hair down, and it shone through the delicate lace. “Ty’s going to be floored when he sees you.” Lily grinned. “I hope so.” Angie opened the door. “He’s waiting.” She walked out in front and started down the satin runner toward the arbor. Family and friends sat in the chairs, and Brent and Drake stood by Ty. Mr. Terrell came to Lily and took her arm. “I’m a lucky man to get to walk another lovely lady down the aisle to marry one of my sons.” A friend of Brent and Angie’s played the wedding march as they started down the runner. Ty’s brilliant blue eyes gazed into hers. He mouthed the words, “You’re beautiful.” Soft breezes caressed her cheeks and the fragrance of the roses filled the air. Lily thought her heart might burst with happiness. **** Ty felt a jolt to his heart when Lily started toward him. The sunlight and her white gown reminded him of how he’d first thought of her, as a lily with golden touches. Her beautiful hair fell around her shoulders and down her back. A wisp of a veil fluttered in the breeze. A small angel. She was going to be his, to love and care for. They’d create a home together. All the dark places inside had been brought back into the light by Lily. Soon they’d have a child. The thought brought a twinge of fear, but he pushed it away. They’d be fine.

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His father placed Lily’s small hand in his. Her soft, warm fingers wrapped around his hand and his heart. Her particular fragrance filled his being. Ty said his vows clear and firm. Lily’s soft voice repeated hers. The best words were when the minister said, “I now pronounce you man and wife.” Lily’s sweet smile filled him with warmth and hope and happiness. Leaning down, he started to just brush his lips across her mouth, but her arms went around his neck. She opened her mouth and thoroughly kissed him. He raised his red face to a laughing crowd. “My, my,” he whispered to his new wife. “Being married has made you quite daring.” “Just wait until we’re alone.” “You did that on purpose, knowing it will be hours before that happens.” Lily took his arm and turned to greet their friends and family. The reception was endless, but fun. At dusk, they had a campfire going by the lake, and everyone, including the children who had joined them, toasted marshmallows and sang songs. At last, the ones leaving began to go to their cars. Ty’s mom and dad were going with Drake and Janice to spend a few days with the grandchildren. When the last car light went out of sight, Angie turned to Brent. “I’m tired, honey, and these newlyweds want to go to the cabin.” She looked at Lily and Ty. “I think you’ll like it.” She flashed a smile at Brent. “We did. I’m glad you decided to stay another few days to visit with your parents, Ty. We love having you here.” “You all go on in,” Ty said to Angie and Brent. “I’ll see the fires out. We’ll see you tomorrow.” Angie and Brent waved as they went into the big ranch house. “Alone at last.” Ty pulled her into his arms. “Look at all the stars. You can hear a cow moo and a train whistle in the distance. Yet there’s nothing in sight but rolling pasture land and the barn.” He

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kissed her mouth. “It’s why I love ranching and being at ranches. You’re close to nature and away from the busy, bustling world.” Putting his arm around her they walked toward the dying campfire. “I know. The first time I came to your ranch and stood at the window that night looking out, the vastness and quiet was comforting. I think I was born to be a cowboy’s wife and didn’t know it until I met you.” Ty let her loose for one moment. “This won’t take long to be sure it’s out.” He quickly had the last of the embers buried and, grabbing an empty can, went to the lake and got water to pour over the area. He made several trips before he was satisfied. “Time to start our honeymoon, Mrs. Terrell. Such as it is with part of our family nearby.” “I’m glad we’ll have the time with them. Anytime we’re together is like a honeymoon.” “Then let’s get started.” Ty scooped her up into his arms and carried her to the cabin. He put her feet down inside the door. They both looked around. “This is really nice.” “I like it.” “We’ll build one in a pretty spot back home and go there from time to time just to get away from everyone,” Ty said. “I’d love to have a place like this.” “Right now I’d love to see you naked.” “It’s a good thing I changed out of my gown earlier. I should put it on just to make you have to undo all those buttons, but I can’t wait.” She started to undo his buttons on his shirt. “I bet I can have you undressed before you undress me,” Lily challenged him. “You are so going to lose that bet.” Ty brushed her hands away and quickly had her standing nude in front of him. “No fair. You didn’t give me a chance.” He opened his arms. “Come and get me, darlin’.” ****

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They’d just fallen asleep when there was a knock on the door. Ty pulled on jeans and called out. “Who is it?” “Brent. Angie is in labor. I thought maybe you two would go with us to the hospital. Angie would like to have her sister there.” Ty opened the door to a frantic Brent. His hair stood on end and he’d buttoned his shirt wrong. “We’ll dress and be right with you,” Ty reassured him. Then watched as Brent sprinted back across the yard to his house. Having heard the conversation, Lily jumped up and put on jeans, a shirt, and shoes. She ran a comb through her hair and tied it back with a scarf. “I’m ready.” Ty had finished dressing, so they ran to join Brent. He was starting to put Angie in the front seat. “Wait, you two get in back. I’ll drive,” Ty said. “Thanks.” Brent helped Angie into the back and he followed. He pulled her into his arms. “We’ll be there soon, sweetheart, and I’ll stay right by your side.” He kissed her forehead. Lily got in the front by Ty. They took off down the road. “Are you going to the bigger hospital in the next town?” Ty asked. “No. Our hospital has been enlarged and has a good maternity section,” Angie said. “Go straight into town and turn right at the last stoplight.” Ty kept a steady but safe speed. He found the road and turned. It didn’t take long before he pulled up to the ER entrance. “You all get out here. I’ll park the car and join you.” Brent, Angie, and Lily got out. “Do you need a wheelchair?” Ty asked before driving off. “No, I can walk.” **** Lily followed her sister and brother-in-law inside the small

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hospital. A nurse greeted them with a wheelchair. “I’ve preregistered,” Angie explained as they followed her down a corridor. “This is nice and new,” Lily said as she looked around. The wide corridors had light, tan walls with lovely pictures of nature, and the floors had a lighter color in the center with a darker edge. “Modern and clean, and doesn’t even have the antiseptic smell you’d expect. I wish they had a place like this near our home in Montana.” “They do,” Ty said, coming up behind her. “But you promised to go to the big city and a large hospital with all the trappings for our baby,” he reminded her. “Well, I’m glad there’s one nearby. I promised you the first time I’d do that, not necessarily the second.” She smiled at him. “I’m going to take your wife in her room and get her ready for delivery,” the nurse said. “You can come in shortly.” “I promised to stay by her side,” Brent protested. “You can after I’m through.” The nurse and Brent stared at each other. “All right, but if you need me, Angie, just yell, and I’ll come through that door.” He squinted at the nurse. “Locked or not.” She laughed and rolled Angie in the room, shutting the door in Brent’s face. “I’m sure glad you’re here, Ty. You can walk the floor with me and get into practice.” Lily hid her smile as the two brothers walked around the room. They stopped once to call Drake and then paced again. When their father and Drake arrived they convinced Brent to sit. Ty still stood. Lily went to him. “Buy me a decaf coffee?” “Sure, if we can find any. We’ll look for the dining room.” The receptionist pointed them in the right direction. Lily took Ty’s arm as they walked. “Are you all right?” He put his arm around her. “Better than I thought I’d be. I can’t wait to hold our baby in my arms. And once we get through this first pregnancy I’m sure I’ll be fine.”

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Mr. and Mrs. Terrell joined them in the dining room. “We wanted a chance to talk with you both. After the baby’s born it will be happy confusion and you’ll be leaving for Montana. We talked to Dirk and he said all is good on the home front,” Mr. Terrell said. Mrs. Terrell put her hand over Lily’s. “We want you to consider the ranch house yours. You can do with it as you please. We’re doing an even exchange.” She smiled at Ty. “And I will do as I want with the cabin. Is that all right with you?” “Sure, Mom. I see it the same way. The house is ours and the cabin is yours.” “Good. I’m looking forward to the change when we return this summer.” “You really didn’t mind giving up the big house?” Ty asked. “Actually for the last few years I’d been trying to get up my nerve to ask you for the cabin. I love it and I don’t need or want a big house anymore.” “I’m excited. I have a few ideas of changes, mostly room colors and such.” Lily smiled at her in-laws. Ty looked at her puzzled. “You do?” Ty asked. “Just say, ‘Yes, dear.’” His father grinned. “It saves a whole lot of misunderstandings.” Mrs. Terrell patted her husband’s hand and looked at Ty. “He’s right, son.” Carter Brent Terrell arrived at 6:00 a.m. All the family crowded around Angie’s bed. She held her baby son and beamed. Brent took the baby from her and kissed his forehead. “We named him after your father, Mom.” “I noticed. He’d be pleased.” “Let Lily hold him, Brent,” Angie directed. “Sure. Here, Lily.” Carefully he put the small bundle in her arms. Lily’s heart beat fast in her chest. Her nephew. She smiled at Angie and without saying a word they connected. They were a family, and it was growing.

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Chapter Fifteen Dirk Brodie thought he saw a movement near the east fence. He rode closer. None of his hired hands were working this section today. He saw a slight figure in a dark coat manage to climb over the fence. Whoever it was almost made it, but the coat got hung up on the barbwire. He got off his horse and walked through the snow toward the stranger trying to unfasten the wire from the coat. “Need some help?” When the woman turned, her hood fell back, revealing bright red hair. “Chelsea?” He knew only one woman who had hair that color, but what would the stubborn, independent, tough-as-nails war reporter be doing sneaking onto their ranch? She looked at him with a slightly belligerent expression. “Dirk. I didn’t expect to see you.” “Who were you expecting? This is private land.” He reached up and unhooked her jacket from the barbwire. “I know. Owned by the Terrell Ranch and Conglomerate. I heard Lily Yannell is staying here. I want to talk with her.” “Why not come to the front door like normal people? Or have you lived on the outskirts of civilization so long you’ve forgotten your manners?” He raised an eyebrow at her. “No, but I know they’ve been turning reporters away. I wanted to have a chance to talk with her before the door was shut in my face.” Dirk leaned against a nearby tree. “What in the world could a hard-ass war reporter find of interest in talking with a sweet, normal lady?” He watched her face flush and his cock came awake. She’d

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always had that effect on him. They’d had an instant attraction when they first met. Time, distance, and the desire for two different goals had separated them shortly after they had a brief affair. She stared at him with those dark green eyes that reminded him of ocean water at dusk. “I’m not a reporter anymore.” Her low, husky voice sent heat flowing through his veins. “Did the world come to an end?” A reluctant smile curved those lush, red lips, and his dick began to harden. “My mother asked me to come home.” “And you just up and quit?” His astonishment and doubt were clear in his voice. “She’s sick. She wanted me closer. She and my dad still live on the ranch where I was raised in Wyoming.” Now his mouth almost dropped open. “You never said you were a country girl.” “It’s not something I advertised in the war zone where I worked. And we didn’t talk much, if I remember right.” She gave him that sensuous look that was guaranteed to send all his blood from his brain to his cock. But not today. She wasn’t going to seduce him into letting her come any further. “You need to leave. Lily Yannell is no longer here.” “I have it on good authority she is. I’ll leave for now, but I’ll be back after I check with my resources. Are you going to let me ride with you back to the road?” “No. You got in. Get out the same way.” He felt her angry stare as he walked to his horse and rode off. He circled back and watched as she took off her jacket, threw it across the wire on the fence, and vaulted across to the other side. He’d never doubted her ingenuity. And he had no doubt where they’d have ended if he took her on his horse. Back at his cabin, naked and making love. He didn’t want to open that door again, even if his cock was hard as a rock and protesting his decision.

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Ty and Lily had arrived home a few hours ago. Hopefully, the inquisitive Chelsea wouldn’t find out the new Mrs. Terrell was Lily Yannell. **** Lily watched as Ty got the fire going in the family room. She’d changed and wore his large, warm robe with nothing underneath. Ty was in for a surprise. She pulled the heavy curtains shut. “There.” He brushed his hands. “The fire is putting out heat already.” He started to turn toward her. “Do you want to pop—” He stared at Lily’s naked body glowing in the firelight. She walked close and began to unbutton his shirt. “I’d like popcorn later.” She purred the words into his face. “I have other plans first.” “I see you do.” His shirt was pushed down his arms and off. She ran her hands across his chest and tight six-pack, then nuzzled her nose into his soft chest hairs. Her tongue licked across his nipples. Glancing up, she smiled at the hungry look in his eyes. Lily put her arms around his neck and let her whole body lean against his muscled frame. “Have I told you how sexy you make me feel?” She rubbed her bare breasts against his chest. Her teeth nipped at his strong jaw. “But you still have on too many clothes.” She slid down to his waistline and undid his buckle and snap and then pushed his pants down around his boots. “Let me help you.” Ty sat on the rug and yanked off his boots and the rest of his clothing. He pulled her down on top of him. “Now you can take up where you left off.” “I hardly know where to start. It all looks so appealing.” Ty flipped her under him. “I have no problem knowing exactly what I want. Dessert.” He spread her legs and ran his tongue across her sensitive clit. When he spread her folds and licked them, Lily

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moaned. He put two fingers in her pussy and moved them in and out while his tongue and teeth teased her clit. “I want you to fill me.” Ignoring her request, Ty kissed along the inner side of her thigh, and then moved upward taking her rosy, swollen nipple into his mouth. His tongue moved around the nipple before he sucked on her breast. “Ambrosia,” he whispered. His fingers continued to rub across her clit, sending fire crackling along her nerve endings. Her desire had her heart beating fast and her hunger for Ty spiking. Lily reached down and clamped her hand around his wide cock. She rubbed her fingers across the crown. “Go in me,” she demanded as her pussy clenched and unclenched with the need to feel him buried deep inside. He gave her his heart-stopping grin. “If you insist.” She let go of his cock and he moved himself into position. “You are sure this is what you want?” he teased her. “Yes!” “You asked for it, darlin’.” He slid in all the way in one long stroke. Her pussy clamped tight around him. “I certainly did,” she said as she began to move her hips to meet his driving cock going in and out. A quiver began deep inside her and spread in ripples from the center. As she rose up to meet his last deep plunge, Ty sucked on her nipple sending her sliding down into soft pleasure. She heard his groan as he followed. They lay intertwined and watched the leaping flames of the fire. Lily raised her head and looked at him. “Do you think we’ll still be doing this in front of the fire on the rug after the children are grown and moved out?” “Absolutely. I’ll chase you around the house and carry you in here.” “Good, but let’s do it one more time. Once we have little ones

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running around we’ll be lucky to have privacy in our own bedroom.” “Oh, we will. I’ll lock the door. But I agree we should do this at least one more time.” He proceeded to kiss every inch of her body.

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Epilogue Ty held her hand as she pushed one more time. Sweat covered her dear, sweet face as she struggled to birth their child. “One more push,” the doctor said, “and this baby will be born.” “That’s what he said the last time,” Lily whispered to Ty as she bore down once more. “There she is.” The doctor stood and handed the newborn to the nurse. “Show the parents their new daughter.” “A girl.” Ty looked in wonderment at the bundle the nurse placed in Lily’s arms. They’d chosen not to know the sex of their child until he or she was born. Now, Ty looked at the rosebud mouth and the thatch of light blonde hair covering her head. “She’s going to look just like you, Lily.” He leaned down and kissed Lily on the lips, and then his daughter on her forehead. Her blue eyes looked at him and his heart tightened with joy. The baby stared at him for a long moment before closing her eyes. “I think she likes her daddy and is going to have him wrapped around her finger.” “Why shouldn’t she? Her momma already has me in that position.” He grinned at his wife and daughter. “I’m going out to give the family the good news.” When he opened the door to the waiting room, they all clustered around him. “Lily’s fine, and so is our daughter.” The cheers and hugs filled his heart. He’d come a long way. He’d been lucky to win Lily’s heart. He’d found the perfect wife for him. Later, standing by Lily’s bed after the family had left, he held his daughter in his arms. Lily smiled at him. “Isn’t she wonderful?”

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“Just like her mother.” He placed the infant in Lily’s arms. “Angie seems pleased we’re naming our baby Diana.” “She is. You like the name, don’t you?” Ty kissed her. “Diana and Lily, my two girls. And I can’t wait to get you both home.” “You may change your mind after getting up a few nights.” “Never.” He had been used to long, lonely nights before Lily came into his life. Now his heart was full of happiness and love. Lily had filled the dark parts of him with sunshine. He smiled at her and saw in her eyes she guessed what he was thinking. Reaching out with her free hand, she took his, linking the three of them together.

THE END WWW.PAIGECAMERON.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 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 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

For all other titles, please visit www.bookstrand.com/paige-cameron

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