Camden stood on his back deck, a cup of coffee in his hand, his heart empty. He’d been awake all night, trying to make peace with the demons clawing at the surface. Nothing seemed right any longer. However, his decision to take a sabbatical from the corporation had been his only decent decision in the last few months. Thank God, Mitchell and Zach hadn’t pushed for him to stay on.

Maybe they were just sick of being around him.

Feeling sorry for himself wasn’t going to do a damn bit of good. He’d thought about various opportunities, and nothing seemed exciting or even challenging. The bitter taste of the coffee swirled in his mouth. Nothing tasted good. Groaning, he walked back inside, turning off the coffee maker and pouring out the dregs.

He eyed the computer and eased down on the stool. Maybe he could get a different kind of job, one that entailed hard work, physical labor. That would certainly be a different approach. Well, he could return to working as an oil rigger. Fuck no. He would be recognized in a dead ass heartbeat. What other skill did he have?

Ranching.

The thought wasn’t bad. He could ask Mitchell to take care of the horses at his place and work somewhere else, but not close. Yes, he’d have to return for his court date, but knowing the court system, that wouldn’t be for a month or so. He pulled up the internet and began to search. The various usual job search pages were useless. Needed, a washed-up, has-been, part-time rancher with limited skills.

He snorted and was beginning to lose hope. Then he thought of Craig’s List. Various ranchers often resorted to the forum to find ranch hands. What the hell? He widened his search to the entire state of Texas and flipped through a few pages. “Huh.”

Wanted: Experienced ranch hand for a cattle ranch in Val Verde County. Eight thousand acres of rich land, fronting the Pecos River. Job comes with room and board. Contact Jorge Muñez, Foreman.

Exhaling, he studied the ad for a few minutes before picking up his cell phone. The only thing the foreman could do was say no. The change in venue was good. He’d hide in plain sight. The thought gave him jitters. Did anyone care any longer?

Fifteen minutes later, he eased the phone down then closed the lid to his laptop. This was either the best decision of his life or the most ridiculous. Only time would tell, but the change in venue as well as the work just might give him the incentive he needed.

Dear God, he hoped so.

Smiling, he made a second phone call, glad he heard the voicemail coming on. “Mitchell, it’s Camden. I need a favor and I know I’m asking a lot, but I’m leaving the ranch for a few weeks. Don’t ask me any questions. Will you take care of the horses while I’m gone? I’ll check in every once in a while, but I’m not going to tell you where I am. Not right now. If you can’t or won’t do this for me, let me know tonight. I’m leaving in the morning. Thank you for everything and for understanding. I hope that…” His voice caught, the sadness creeping in. “I hope I can find myself. Take care.”

He lowered his head and for the first time in so long, he felt very much alone. There was one thing he needed to do before he packed for the trip. Heading out back, he walked toward the barn. The horses greeted him with swishing tails and whinnying. He made certain they had adequate food and water before heading to the last stall.

“Hello, Beauty. I’ve missed you.” He hung over the gate, admiring the beautiful Appaloosa. The name suited the gorgeous mare and he’d adored her from the first moment he’d laid eyes on her almost two years before. His promise to ride her every day was similar to every other promise he’d made and broken. Unlatching the bolt, he walked inside, rubbing his hand against her nose. “Would you like to go for a ride?”

Beauty whinnied, her head darting up and down.

“Good girl.” He grabbed the blanket and saddle, easing the massive leather piece across her back. After cinching it tight, he rubbed her mane, enjoying the feel. The amazing mare had seen him break down far too often in the beginning. Then nothing. Her comfort had meant the world to him and he’d allowed his joy of riding to take a back seat.

He led her out of the barn and the corral, latching the gate before placing his leg in the stirrup and straddling her back. Leaning down, he whispered. “I think you know where we’re going. Eh, girl?”

She snorted and pawed the dirt.

“Let’s go.” Camden enjoyed the way the light breeze rushed past as he took off, trotting at first then after they made their way through the bank of trees, he took off at a full gallop. His hands were wrapped around the reins but there was no tension. No need. Beauty knew his emotions and state of mind so well.

As he rode, his mind began to clear, to understand that he’d been headed in this direction for some time. Ignoring the signs had almost cost him his life. Inhaling the scent of the air, the dense foliage and the flowers he’d planted so long ago were invigorating, yet a bitter sweet reminder of a previous life.

The ride took him almost fifteen minutes and when he entered the cemetery, he slowed down, walking Beauty the rest of the way. The large oak on the knoll was the reminder of better times, of passion and shared dinners, bottles of wine while they talked for hours, planning for the future.

Sarah…

Her name alone forced an intense reaction and tears rushed to his eyes. Beauty twisted her head, as if trying to look at her owner, to make certain that he was all right. He was anything but. Still, this was the right thing to do, to make certain she understood. Garnering what was left of his courage, he continued on the path until he could read the name on her gravestone. Easing off Beauty, he patted her flank before walking the rest of the way on foot.

There was no worry that Beauty would leave him behind. She knew her place. She understood her master. She also knew of the intense sadness.

Hunkering down, he picked at the few weeds, pulling and tossing them away. Everything had to be perfect for the love of his life, just like the woman. When the area was weed free, he sat down and crossed his legs. Very gently he touched the name carved into the stone and swallowed hard. “Hi, baby. I know it’s been too long since I visited. I’m so sorry. I’ve been busy.”

The wind seemed to whip all around him, creating an eerie sound, a hollow echo. He knew she was here. She was listening.

“I’ve missed you. The truth is I couldn’t bear to come here any longer. I just… I guess I can’t think of you this way. You were always so alive. I don’t know.” He continued rubbing the letters, finally tracing her name with his finger. His thoughts drifted. The decisions they’d made together had been difficult but necessary in order to keep their relationship a secret. If only he’d known about the future, things would have been different.

“I’m leaving for a while. A month, maybe longer, but you’ll be in my heart, as you always have been. There isn’t a day that goes by I don’t think about you. I can’t tell you how much I miss our talks, your laugh and your smile.”

Camden clenched his eyes shut and hissed. The pain was excruciating. “I love you.” Dropping his head, he allowed the tears to flow as the memories rushed in, images and flashes, visions of the times they spent together. There had been nothing like the love he felt for Sarah and there could be no other woman that he’d ever love as much. He was shaking, his heart rattled from the ugliness that they’d both allowed. There was no going back. There was no way to right the wrong.

There was no method of repairing his soul.

The tears fell, and he sobbed, wanting to go back to the time before, even for a single day. A cold chill slithered down his spine and he jerked his head up. The wind had changed direction and as he blinked, trying to focus, he could see her. “Sarah?”

A warmth appeared on his arm, a slight grip, a comforting move.

He turned his head slowly. The hair stood up on his arm, goosebumps popping up on every inch of his skin. “I can feel you.” In the next several seconds, he was in a bubble, a sweet vacuum as her face floated in front of his. When the vision started to fade, he breathed out and he knew she was trying to offer him peace as well as her love. Her forgiveness.

She was also saying goodbye.

Amber stormed past the receptionist, taking long strides as she headed for Bart Randolph’s office. She’d waited two days to confront him but after reviewing the various tapes, she could tell there was some plan in motion. And she was red hot.

“Miss. You can’t do that. You need an appointment!”

She hissed and refused to stop. The damn delivery of flowers had been the last straw. A bouquet of red roses with a simple card meant to scare her to death.

I’ll take what I want when I want…

Like fucking hell he would. The bastard was in his office. She could just make out his fat ass leaning back in his chair, his feet on the desk. The man was useless, as far as she was concerned. Without knocking, she threw open the door and headed straight for his desk, a huge smile on her face.

Bart gave her a look. “Joe. I’m going to have to call you back. Someone just came into my office. Yeah, golf sounds good, buddy. I’ll see you later today. Drinks after.”

“Mr. Randolph.” The receptionist was breathless when she bounded inside. “I couldn’t stop her. I tried, but she just walked right past me.”

Shifting, he dropped his feet and waved. “Don’t worry about it, Betsy. I’m happy to see Miss Harding. You can go ahead and close the door.”

Betsy hesitated then walked out, closing the door.

Amber tilted back her head. “I think you know why I’m here.”

Bart rose to his feet and shored up his sagging pants. “If you’re here to apologize for shooting up one of my trucks, then yes, little lady. I do.”

“You’re such an arrogant ass. I wouldn’t have shot at one of your trucks if your men hadn’t been on my property trying to steal my cattle!”

Chuckling, he eased around the corner of the desk. “That’s where you got it all wrong, missy. My men were just trying to capture a loose steer, one of my prized steers as a matter of fact. They spotted him and would have let you know what was going on if you hadn’t fired a few rounds. That could have been very dangerous.”

“That’s bullshit, and you know it. You’re not going to threaten me, Bart. I’m not going to take it any longer. My ranch isn’t for sale. It never was and never will be. Even if I did decide to put it on the market, I sure as shit wouldn’t sell to a low life, criminal such as yourself.”

His eyes flaring, he moved closer.

While he stood several inches taller than her, Amber didn’t flinch. The man was going to get what was coming to him.

“I suggest you be very careful in your selection of words, Miss Harding. I know things about your ranch and your business and I doubt very much that you’d want those to get out in the open.”

This was a new tactic. “What’s wrong? Plying me with roses wasn’t good enough for you?”

He wrinkled his brow. “Roses aren’t my style, little lady. You should know that by now. I prefer the up close and personal method. If ya know what I mean.”

Uh-huh. Rat ass bastard. “Another threat. Is that all you can do, try and bully your way into getting what you want? No wonder not a single rancher wants to do business with you any longer.”

He bristled then rubbed his jaw. “I don’t need their business. You should know that by now. I have almost everything I need, but I tell you what. I’ll make you one very special offer.” He held up a single finger as he smiled again. “Yes, I think I will.”

“I don’t want any offer from the likes of you. I want you and your men to stay off my property or next time, I will be the one calling the law, but after I make certain that intruders are dealt with appropriately. Do you hear me?”

The man ignored her, humming as he grabbed a pen and piece of paper.

The audacity of him was maddening, but she was going to see this out, no matter that he believed she’d crumple at the concept of money.

Bart grabbed an envelope from his top drawer and slipped the paper inside, taking his time to lick the flap and seal it. “I think you’ll find this more than acceptable.” Shoving the envelop in her face, he remained unblinking.

She tried to figure out what was best to do. Yanking the offer from his hand, she shoved the envelope in her back pocket. “No deal.”

“Uh. Huh. Just take a look. But the offer is only good for twenty-four hours. After that, I’m going to use what I know against you. That would make your pappy, God rest his soul, roll over in his grave. Now, wouldn’t it?”

She laughed. “You don’t bother me, Bart. Not in the least. Just keep your goons off my property and we’ll be just fine.” What in the hell did the man think he had on her? She certainly wasn’t going to let him see her sweat. Turning, she walked toward the door, taking her time.

“Trust me, little girl. You’re going to want to sell to me because if you don’t, I will destroy you. Your father owes me and it’s time I get paid.”

Another chill trickled down her back, but she didn’t hesitate, nor did she look back. Keeping her head high, she threw open the door and headed for the elevator. Only when she was safely inside the tin box did she slink against the wall, shivering. “Fuck.” This was much bigger than she could handle by herself. “What did you leave me with, Daddy?”

She sat in the truck and fingered the envelope, terrified to look inside. When she was finally able, she peeled away the flap, careful to keep her fingers away from his saliva. She swallowed as she removed the note. Rage rushed into her and she knew the man was crazy as well as out to get her. The ranch was worth millions. The offer?

One hundred thousand dollars.

As she gunned the engine, roaring out of the parking lot, she realized she’d have to determine a course of action. And she knew the man wouldn’t stop. There was a reason behind his bravado, but what? She thought about her father’s things, the corporate books she’d refused to look at after his death. Maybe it was time that she had a look.

The anger flowed to the point she was white knuckling the steering wheel all the way back to the ranch. She floored the accelerator when she pulled down the long driveway, ready for a tall glass of wine or hell, maybe whiskey tonight. She’d never been this rattled since taking over almost two years before. There’d always been tough times but to be openly threatened? She had to wonder what had occurred with some of the other ranch owners. While she didn’t know them well, they might talk to her. Might.

Grousing, she swung onto the road leading to the main house, surprised when she noticed her foreman’s truck. It was quitting time and the man was like clockwork, going home to his wife and four kids. She craned her neck, studying the brand new Dodge Ram, a rarity in these parts. Maybe Jorge had decided they needed another hard body. Yeah, they did, but she had zero idea how she was going to pay another salary. Still, a new ranch-hand would mean additional productivity. Work and life had to move on.

She climbed out, stuffing the ridiculous offer in her back pocket and noticed Jorge standing by the fence, flanked by another man. The late afternoon sun was shining in her eyes and as she resigned herself to walk closer, she was forced to shield her eyes. The closer she came, the more curious she became. The stranger was in jeans and cowboy boots, but even from the distance, she knew instinctively that he wasn’t used to outdoor work. This should be good. She stood in the background, listening to the one-sided conversation.

“We’ll start at five tomorrow morning. You have the keys to the cabin. It ain’t much to look at but I made sure you had clean bedding, and everything works. We usually have some chow at the main quarters and even have some Friday night music occasionally. Nothing fancy, but we have a good time.” Jorge was animated, his face beaming with pride.

The man was one of the few she trusted with her ranch, her concerns and even her life. Jorge had been with her father long before she took over the ranch.

“Appreciate that, Jorge. I don’t need much. Just a place to lie down at night,” the stranger commented, his tone full of appreciation.

“Sometimes the missus has a barbeque for the guys. Makes it nice to work here,” Jorge added.

Amber cleared her throat as she walked closer. “Jorge. Surprised to see you.”

“Oh, Miss Harding. I just wanted you to meet our newest hire and I needed to let you know that I offered him the south hunter’s lodge. We’re all jammed up at the quarters. I hope you don’t mind.” Jorge smiled as he walked toward her.

“No, that’s fine. Whatever you need.” New hire. Now, wasn’t this just a bit too coincidental? She glanced up and down at the blond before offering her hand. Fine looking cowboy, but he had the look of an imposter. Too clean cut. Too polished. Too handsome. She could feel the heat rising from her neck, but she’d learned a long time ago to trust her instincts. “You’re not from around here, cowboy.”

“No, ma’am. But I am from Texas.” He grinned and tipped his hat.

He was far too slick to be a cowboy.

“He checked out well, Miss Harding,” Jorge insisted, raising a single eyebrow.

If Jorge trusted the man, then there had to be at least one redeeming quality about him. “Amber Harding. I own Rattlesnake Ranch.”

“Camden Dane. Good to meet you and I don’t want to put you to any trouble with the cabin.” Camden’s eyes flashed as he shook her hand.

His eyes were mesmerizing, a lavender color that she hadn’t seen in years. She was at a loss for words the moment they touched. The electricity flowed between them, creating a wet sensation between her legs. This was more than just unusual. This was an issue and one she had no time dealing with. “The cabin. I guess that’s all right, but I have to ask. What experience do you have? Ranching can be very hard work. Long hours, few if any breaks. You have to actually get your hands dirty.” She heard the disdain in her voice and noticed that Jorge had taken a step back. He’d been forced to experience her balls to the walls attitude more often then he no doubt cared for. After a quick glance at Camden’s smooth hands, she shook her head.

“Like I said. I checked him out thoroughly, Miss Harding. He’ll be a solid worker,” Jorge jumped in, his face beet red.

She held out her hand, the action preventing Jorge from saying anything else. “I want Mr. Dane to answer the question.”

Camden smirked before answering. “Gladly. Let’s see. I’ve owned a ranch for years and certainly know how to handle horses, cattle and other stock animals. I also used to be an oil rigger, so I understand hard work. Is that experience enough for you? Is that down and dirty enough for you or would you prefer I show off my God given talents by digging a hole or two, swinging an ax? Maybe wrangling a steer is more to your liking?”

“Whoa. I think I better get going,” Jorge muttered under his breath and took another long stride backwards.

“Hold on, Jorge. I have a few things to discuss with you,” Amber instructed.

“Yes, hold on. I think the lady has something she wants to say.” Camden’s eyes flashed, holding amusement.

Oh, this man was a challenge. Amber placed her hands on her hips and stood still, unblinking, the same calculated expression on her face. Few men dared to defy her in such a manner, at least those who worked for her. A paycheck was an excellent deterrent. Instead of being her normal pissed off self, she grew more curious about the man, her instinct telling her there was much more behind his cool façade and sexy smile. “I think you’ve made your point. But here’s the real deal and given the rough and tumble kind of man that you profess to be, I’m certain you can handle it. You have a week to show off what you can do, all those attributes you seem certain of. If you don’t cut the muster, then there are no questions asked. You are gone. Do I make myself clear?”

Camden squinted at the waning sun and whipped out a pair of sunglasses from his shirt pocket. After slipping them on, he hesitated for a few seconds. “Crystal. Happy to just do my job, Miss Harding.” With that, he gave Jorge a respectful nod before swaggering toward his truck, taking his time to climb inside. After revving the engine, he took off, the tires cutting into the loose gravel, creating a curtain of dirt.

She walked several feet, following along his exiting trail before exhaling. A man like that could create a brand new wave of fantasies. “Camden Dane.” She’d remember his name, his face and his body. Yes, indeed, his body.

“What did you need, Miss Harding?” Jorge approached, his tone of voice hushed.

“Need?” Sinful visions rushed into the back of her mind. The man naked, lying across her bed. “I’m sorry. What did you say?”

Jorge followed her gaze before issuing a grin. “Camden. He’s all right.”

“Well, I guess we’ll just have to wait and see. I wish you wouldn’t call me Miss Harding. Makes me sound very old.” Hell, according to her bestie, she was ancient since she had no boyfriend and no one knocking at her door.

Jorge leaned in, winking. “In front of the hired help, there will be respect for your position.”

Issuing a grin, she rubbed her hand on his arm. “You’re the consummate professional. Why I adore you so much.”

“Ah, shucks. What’s on your mind? I can see those wheels turning, burning rubber.”

She continued watching until Camden’s truck was out of sight. “Jorge, I’m worried. These incidents are starting to cost money.”

“I know, honey. Doing the best we can, given the limited help and circumstances. One reason I hired Camden. One more able body.”

You bet, the man was more than able. Her pussy clenching, she shivered and shoved her nefarious thoughts into the back of her mind. She certainly didn’t need any distractions. “Well, I do hope he can pull his weight.”

“He will.”

“I’ve set up certain surveillance cameras in select areas on the ranch, but I can’t afford to put them everywhere. I need you to develop a night watch detail. Just a few men to travel the ranch and make certain there are no issues.”

Jorge scratched his head. “You think it’s going to get worse, don’t you?”

“Yeah. Seems Bart Randolph has an inkling to push me out of the ranch. Even sent me roses. Bastard.”

“Bart Randolph is formidable so if that’s the case, then he wants more than just the ranch.”

She turned toward him, narrowing her eyes. “What exactly does that mean? You’ve dropped hints before. Do you know something that I should know?”

Jorge glanced around and lowered his voice. “Just means that the Randolph family is causing a lot of trouble with some of the other ranchers. He’s trying to coerce them into selling as well. That should give everyone cause for concern.”

“Which ranchers?” She’d heard a few rumblings in the community, but her gut told her that Bart was making a hard push.

“Well,” he wrinkled his brow. “The ones pretty close to yours. You know the Butchers at the Running Water Ranch? They were the first ones approached from what old man Butcher said a couple weeks ago. He had a visit from Kyle Randolph with an offer. Almost took it too.”

“Kyle? Bart’s son?” Amber snapped her head in Jorge’s direction, another round of sickness rushing into her stomach. She had difficulty feeling her legs.

“Yeah. Heard he’s been making trouble.” Jorge shook his head. “Has his sights set on running Daddy’s company.”

She remembered the jerk off in school. Once a bully, always a bully. She couldn’t forget his forcefulness with her, his determination that she belonged to him. Over her dead ass body. “The town just went to Hell.”

“Yeah. You can say that again. I’d stay away from him if I were you,” Jorge offered, chuckling. “Don’t want anything to happen to my goddaughter.”

Smiling, she touched his arm. “You worry too much.”

“Heard about running off Randolph’s men. While I can understand, you don’t want to tangle with those boys.”

“You know I can take care of myself. My daddy taught me well. After all, he wanted a boy in the family.”

Jorge rolled his eyes. “Your daddy was thrilled beyond belief on the day you were born. Teaching you to ride, shoot and fight like a man had nothing to do with his desires. You were a bottle rocket from the start.”

The man always knew how to make her feel better. “What did the Butcher’s decide?”

“They didn’t sell but since then, there’s been some mysterious things occurring at the ranch. Just can’t figure out why Bart wants to buy up everything around here. Ranching is drying out.” Jorge inhaled and looked away. “I’m sorry for that. I know you’ve put your heart and soul into this place.”

“Don’t worry, Jorge. You’re not telling me anything I don’t already know.” The lines on her godfather’s face were deeper. He’d aged so much in the last few months alone. Sighing, she heard the horses whinnying in the background and her heart ached. No one was going to force her off the ranch. “I’m worried that good ol’ Bart will push. He’ll try another tactic. I’m certain of that. We have to be ready. I can’t figure out what he thinks he has on me. Then last night was brazen.”

He glanced at the sky. “His tactics were always questionable.”

She caught an odd inflection in his voice. Too many secrets in cowboy town. “Now, he has to contend with me.”

“As well as a group of men who have no issues with having your back. I’ll gather a group of men to make certain that doesn’t happen. Just leave it to me.”

“Thank you. Go home to your beautiful wife. Tell Renaldo I said hello.”

Jorge beamed. “I will. Try and get some sleep tonight. You look exhausted.”

“Stop worrying,” Amber growled. When he hesitated, she gave him an amused look. “What? I can tell you have something else on your mind.”

Laughing, he shrugged his shoulders. “You can read a man better than anyone I ever knew.”

“Most women can do that.”

“I don’t want to intrude, but what about the ranch?”

“What do you mean?” Amber couldn’t hide anything from the man, including her fear of losing the Rattlesnake Ranch.

“I know you’ve had some meetings with the bank.” He gave her an intense look.

“A couple. I have time.”

“How much time?” Jorge pushed.

“Enough. We’re going to have a good season. I can feel it.” She hated lying to the only man she trusted, but the last thing Jorge needed was another worry in his life.

He walked closer. “Honey, if we lose any more cattle or if the draught continues, you’re going to have to make some tough choices.”

She sagged as the concept settled in. “I know. I can’t bear losing this place. I think that’s why Bart is swarming around me like a piranha. Smells blood in the water. Damn him!”

“Everybody knows everybody else’s business. You know how this town is. He has his finger in everyone’s pie.”

I’m going to cut off that finger and his entire arm. “Afraid I do. Let’s just make certain everyone is doing their share. Okay?”

Jorge’s eyes flashed. “Sure thing. I’ll get going.”

“Hey, I heard you talking about a barbeque with our new employee. I’d like to have one Sunday afternoon. Do you think you can help me set that up?” She had no desire to socialize but her men deserved it. They’d all been through a lot in the last few months.

“Really? You haven’t wanted to do one in a while.”

“I know. I think now is the time. Make sure all the hands are invited and any who have girlfriends. Make sure you bring your family too.”

“I will. Glad to see you’re fighting again. I mean for what you want.” Jorge laughed.

“Be careful what you ask for.” Amber waited until Jorge had left before going inside. She stood in the foyer, leaning against the wall, remembering the way her mother had loved the house, creating an amazing place to grow up. The large square footage was far too much for one person, but she couldn’t bear to sell or even rent, moving into a smaller cabin. This was her home.

The truth was cold and brutal. If the season tanked, there was no other choice but to sell. She couldn’t bear the loss. Stop thinking this way.

Hearing her phone, she groaned before dragging it out of her back pocket. At the same time, the envelope floated toward the floor. Her anger resurfacing, she yanked it into her fingers, answering the phone at the same time. “What the hell do you want?”

“Jesus. F. Freaking Christ. What in the hell is wrong with you?”

“Pepper?” Amber headed for her kitchen, slapping the envelope on her kitchen counter.

“Yes, remember me, your best friend and the one you keep ignoring?” Pepper huffed.

“Sorry. Been a shit day.” The smell of the roses was overpowering, creating gag reflexes.

“You always have shit days, which is why you can’t say no.”

Amber grabbed an open bottle of wine from the refrigerator, tugging on the cork. “That terrifies me already.”

“As it should. We’re going out. Need to get you away from your money troubles.”

Amber was sorry she’d ever told Pepper how bad off she was. The girl was relentless. Find a man to marry. Sell off a portion of the ranch. Find a partner. Yeah, right. None of Pepper’s ideas had any merit. “No, I have far too much work to do.” She glared at the roses, plucking at the petals.

“Are you studding some giant steed of yours? Or maybe bedding that sexy Russian.”

Amber groaned as she found a clean wine glass. “We’re buddies, nothing more.”

“Said the spider to the fly. I know exactly what you do with Drago, so don’t try and fool me. One night out isn’t going to kill you. Just a drink or two so we can catch up. Say no and I’m coming out there to whip your ass.”

She shifted and could still feel the sting of the belt as the tight jeans scraped across her backside. “Fine, but you’re going to pick me up.” She plucked several more petals until two of the flowers were nothing but stems.

And thorns.

“Why did I know you were going to say that?” Pepper teased. “That’s fine by me. Means I control your time and your destiny.”

“Oh, no you don’t. A drink. Remember?” Sloshing wine into her glass, she topped it off then held the golden liquid into the air.

“Don’t worry. Pick you up at seven.”

“Sure.”

“And for God’s sake, wear something other than jeans.”

Spitting out a mouthful, she snorted as she reached for a paper towel. “If you weren’t my best friend, I swear to God, I’d hunt you down like a dog.”

“You and my ex-boyfriend.” Pepper gave an elongated sigh.

“Uh-oh, trouble in paradise?”

“Let’s just say I’m thinking of pitching for the other team. See you at seven for all the gory details.”

Gory details. Pepper was hell on wheels. This was the third boyfriend in only a few months. The term ‘boyfriend’ was used loosely. Pepper had one-night stands, nothing more. Other than her experiences with Drago, what did she have to brag about? Nothing. She took a sip then a gulp, her thoughts drifting to the oh-so sexy cowboy. They were going to tangle. When they did, she was curious who would get the upper hand.

As she walked out, her mind remained squarely in fantasyland. One night soon, they would become lovers.

Camden stood outside the cabin, leaning against the truck. This was certainly going to be a new chapter in his life. What in the hell had she insinuated? That he couldn’t do the job? That he was too soft? Who in the hell did she think she was? Did she get off treating all her new employees this way? Fuming wasn’t in his best interest, but he remained in a nasty mood. Well, maybe not nasty but he was riled. No woman did that to him.

Not any that he ever wasted time with again.

She’s your boss. Shut the fuck up.

He waved his hand, trying to push the ugly voice aside. Still, he had to prove himself and the truth was, he had no idea if he could do the work any longer. He was out of practice. At least Jorge seemed to think he could. He studied the house then walked all the way around the perimeter. The small deck located on the back just might fall off. Uh-huh. The foundation had seen better days and the only green item were weeds, very tall weeds pushing up against the side of the house. “Perfect.” Didn’t this just jazz up his mood?

Yep, the rustic box home was nothing to look at from the outside. He could only imagine what he was going to face inside. Sighing, he yanked off his sunglasses and eased the keys out of his pocket. This is what he’d applied for, hard work and little pay. Maybe he’d take the time to fix a few loose boards. He rolled his eyes and gave himself a pep talk. His choice to make the change and he knew it was needed. No one knew who he was, and no one cared.

Chuckling, he walked onto the porch, shaking his head when he heard the serious creaking noises. The wooden slats were old, not maintained and he could smell the rotten wood. Fantastic. Still, he didn’t have to bunk with the other guys. A perk. When he unlocked the door, he stood back, waiting to see if various critters would scamper away.

He heard nothing but the slight ticking of a refrigerator, at least a good sign. As long as there was also running water, electricity and a bed to sleep, he’d be a happy man.

At least for tonight.

Exhausted from the long drive, he headed inside, searching for a lamp or light switch. The place was dark, with what appeared to be wooden blinds covering the windows and the smell was one of dampness. Inching forward he stumbled against a hard surface, pitching forward. “Shit!”

The moment his head hit the floor, he folded his arms over his chest. So far, this week had been less than stellar. A DUI, giving up a six-figure income for a slightly better than minimum wage job, and a move from a light and bright home to an abysmal dungeon. For the icing on the cake, he’d already picked a fight with his new boss. Freaking fantastic. He studied the shadowed ceiling as he stretched out his legs. Penance. This was nothing but penance.

Climbing to his feet, he took careful steps, finding a single lamp. The warm glow didn’t create a different atmosphere. The cabin was small and furnished with just the basics. Just. But it would do for however long he decided to stay. After grabbing the rest of his things and dumping them into the bedroom, he walked toward the refrigerator, daring to open the door. A grin popped on his face. There might not be any food, but Jorge had been kind enough to leave a six pack of beer.

What a damn good guy. He grabbed a bottle, popping the top and polished off almost half in three gulps. The early day was going to be a killer and he was starving. First things first, a shower.

The water was decidedly cold, the only available towel more like a washcloth and the soap must have been attached to the cracking holder since the last tenant—sometime around 1935. He’d make a list and grab a few essentials along with some dinner. A burger. A sloppy, juicy cheeseburger was in order.

After dressing and finishing his beer, he headed out. Twilight had settled in and as he drove out of the ranch, he couldn’t help but admire the majestic terrain. While the land was flat, the various oak trees and other varieties along with what had to be professional landscaped areas flanking the main road, everything was cared for. Beautiful even. The ranch had a woman’s touch.

Amber Harding. She was a handful and then some. Her mouth was caustic, her demeanor surly and her wit sharp as a tack. She was a woman to be reckoned with. His cock swelled, pushing hard against his jeans and he rolled his eyes. The last thing he needed to do was get involved with anyone, especially a feisty redhead with a penchant for pushing boundaries.

His thoughts shifted, creating a moment, the vision far too real.

“I told you to come here,” Camden commanded, patting his lap.

“Not on your life,” Amber huffed, taking several steps away.

Giving her the look, the very one that she loathed to see, he beckoned using a single finger. “I suggest you do as you’re told, or the punishment will be much more severe.”

“I did nothing wrong.”

“Nothing?” He picked up the brush sitting on the kitchen table, twirling it in the light. “You came home drunk. You mouthed off and I think called me a worthless asshole, if I understood your slurred words correctly. And…”

Smack!

Slapping the back of the brush against his hand, he grinned seeing her shudder. “You told me to get the hell out. Of. My. Own. House.”

Amber sagged and rubbed her mouth. “Did I really?”

“You did. Now, don’t you think that you deserve a hard spanking for the various infractions I mentioned?”

“Yes.”

“Yes?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Good girl. Come here.” Camden patted his lap a second time.

Exhaling then grunting, she obeyed, moving slowly, her feet dragging.

He adored her tenacity, the way she refused to kowtow to anyone, but her disobedience had gotten out of hand. “Come on.” When she was finally standing in front of him, he took her hand, rubbing his fingers across her clammy skin. “You know you are much happier after I give you a spanking. At peace.” They both were.

“Yes, sir. You’re right and I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to call you names.” Amber dropped her head, her expression conciliatory.

“I know.” He eased her over his lap and lifted her dress, yanking down her panties. “We’ll start with the brush and if I don’t believe that you’ve learned your lesson, I’ll pull out the strap.”

Smack! Crack!

“Oh!”

Pop! Slap!

Camden was sweating, strings trickling down both sides of his face and he’d slowed down to a crawl. Laughing, he shook away the sinful vision.

But he knew at that very moment, this woman, this incredible and aggravating woman was going to succumb to him. She would ask for a hard spanking on their first date and he would be happy to oblige.

Crack!