Chapter 4

Leah was thrilled. I’ve got a job! Just like that, I’ve got a job. She could hardly breathe. Her hands were clasped so tight together in her lap her knuckles were turning white.

Ty started the truck, the diesel engine roaring to life. “Okay, let’s go to the Bag ’n’ Save, and then I imagine your serpentine belt will be here.”

She turned on him with a breathless grin. “Thanks so much, Ty.”

“You gotta stop that,” he said with a grin of his own. “I’m just being neighborly.”

“Whatever it is you’re calling it, I thank you.”

He reached over to grab her hand and give it a squeeze. “You make it real easy to be nice to you, Leah.” Then, as if he caught himself doing something he shouldn’t, he drew his hand away.

Leah rode the few blocks to the grocery store, an uncomfortable silence suffocating her.

Once inside, Ty commandeered a cart, while Leah groped for Gran’s list.

“Let me see that,” he said, and she passed it to him with a sigh. He glanced over it quickly and tucked it in the pocket of his shirt. “How about some fresh stuff?” He headed for the produce section.

“Um, it’s not on the list.” She was painfully aware of the few items Gran had requested.

“Well, it’s on my list. Let’s see here. Does Gracie like fruit?” He proceeded to fill bags with apples, peaches, and grapes. He hefted a good-sized watermelon onto the carrier under the cart.

Leah kept quiet, nodding agreement whenever he asked her about some food item or another. He went up and down the aisles, filling the cart with all kinds of foodstuffs.

“Does your grandmother have enough ranch dressing? We better grab another bottle, because that seems to be the favorite.” He tossed a large bottle in with his other gatherings. He got cases of dog food and treats too. By the time he was done, the grocery cart was piled high.

She cringed when they got to the checkout line and the total was rung up. She offered the ten-dollar bill, but Ty whipped out a plastic card and swiped it through the slot in front of him.

“You keep that for emergencies. You’re starting your new job tomorrow, and you’ll need to buy lunch.”

The ache of impending tears stung her nose. Not going to cry! She bit the inside of her lips to keep her courage locked down. It’s all good.

Ty stowed the groceries in the back seat and started the truck again. “One more stop, and we’ll get that belt and take you home.”

She nodded, feigning a smile.

He drove to a convenience store and left the motor idling while he went inside. He came back with a small bag and tossed it to her. “I got you a pay-as-you-go cell phone and some minutes. Be sure to plug it in when you get home. I don’t want you out on the road without some means of calling for help.”

That did it. She burst into tears, her shoulders shaking and her hands over her eyes.

“Oh, come on, baby girl. I didn’t mean to make you cry.” He reached over and hauled her to him, patting her shoulder while she bawled. He stroked her hair and held her closer.

“Everything has just been so hard,” she said. “I mean—”

“Shh,” he soothed. “You’re here now, and everything is going to be all right.”

“Well, yeah. You’re being so damned kind to me. I don’t ever remember anyone actually caring if I broke down by the side of the road or not or…or if there was food on the table.” She sniffled loudly. “Or if Gracie liked apples or pears.”

“I don’t know why not. Somebody should care about you…a lot.” He rested his cheek against her hair. “I care,” he whispered.

She raised her chin, gazing into his eyes. Her heart thundered in her ears as he wiped the tears from her cheeks.

His expression melted any pretense of reserve she might have had. Softly, he brushed his lips against hers. And again, a little less softly. “Damn!” he muttered as her arms circled his neck. “I’m a goner.” He laid a kiss on her that she felt all the way down to her toes. When they drew apart, he flashed a sudden smile. “Don’t look so scared. We’ll figure this out.” He tousled her hair and put the truck in gear. “Buckle up, baby.”

Leah nodded wordlessly, not sure what there was to figure out but willing to go along with it, whatever it was.

The last stop was the auto supply store where, once more, he left the truck idling and went inside to emerge with another bag he tossed in the back seat. “Now we’re done. Let’s get you home so I can start to work on your car.”

They made the trip back to Gran’s with their fingers interlaced.

Ty sang along with the radio, and he did, indeed, have an incredible voice. His rich baritone was right on key, and he seemed to know the words to every song the disc jockey played.

Leah’s thoughts were jumbled. She was afraid to even try examining her feelings too deeply. She only knew this was the happiest she could ever remember being, and Ty had done it with his kindness and a few kisses.

* * *

When Ty pulled up in front of the little farmhouse, he saw Gracie outside playing with Lucky and Eddie. She dropped the stick she’d been throwing and ran up to greet them with a grin. The cast on her arm looked ungainly on her slender form. “Hi, Mommy! Hi, Ty!”

He got out and picked Gracie up, swinging her around a few times before setting her back on her feet. “Hi, Gracie. Are you keeping the dogs in line?”

She laughed and nodded. “Eddie likes to run around with Lucky. I throw the stick, and they bring it back to me. They’re best friends now.” She pointed to the unlikely duo. Lucky, a big, silky-coated purebred retriever, and Eddie, a small, black-and-white mixed breed with curly fur and bright, shiny eyes.

Eddie sat down and scratched behind his ear. Ty figured he would need to treat both dogs for fleas since they had become “best friends.”

He opened the driver’s side back door and loaded his arms with plastic grocery bags. He looked back to see Leah gathering more and trailing behind him. Gracie ran ahead and held the screen door open, and he carried his load to the kitchen, setting everything in the middle of the floor. “I’ll get the rest and leave you to put stuff away.” He spoke to Leah, who nodded at him.

Returning to the truck, he contemplated the turn of events. He wasn’t sure what had happened, but he could no longer pretend he was indifferent to the lovely Leah. He had felt the attraction from the moment she walked into Tiny’s Diner with Gracie in tow. They’d both looked scared to death, like the boogeyman was hot on their trail.

He wrenched the truck door open again, grabbing the rest of the groceries and the bag from the auto supply store. He dropped the latter on the porch and hauled the rest into the house.

Leah and Gracie were gleefully going through the bags. Just the sight of their faces made his chest feel like it was full of feathers. “Where’s your grandmother?”

Leah stared hard as he slipped the nicely starched western shirt off and arranged it over the back of a kitchen chair. Now he was wearing just a white T-shirt. “Gracie tells me she’s out cleaning up the bunkhouse in your honor.”

“That’s mighty nice of her, but she didn’t need to go to all that trouble.” He raked his fingers through his hair and set his Stetson back on his head.

Leah laughed. “Well, you didn’t look too comfortable crunched up on the couch. She must have thought you needed a little room to stretch out.”

“Maybe she’s right. I’ll be outside if you need me.” He strode out the door, grabbing the bag he’d left on the porch and his tools out of the truck. He inserted a favorite CD and opened the windows so he could hear music while he worked before heading to Leah’s car.

Popping the hood, he stared into the guts of the aged vehicle. He sang along with the CD as both dogs came to lie in the dirt near him. “Thanks, my buds.” Eddie cocked his head, but Lucky just lowered his head onto his paws and prepared to go to sleep.

Ty opened the store bag and took out a plastic drain pan, then slid it under the oil reservoir and drained the dirtiest, sludgiest-looking oil he had ever seen. Damn! I bet she hasn’t had an oil change in a year. He shook his head, a muscle tightening in his cheek. Hasn’t anyone ever taken care of you, Leah?

It irked him that she was so grateful for any little thing he did to help her out. It shouldn’t be that way. A woman as sweet and pretty as Leah should have someone by her side, happy to do all the things a man is supposed to do for a woman. He could see the shredded remains of the serpentine belt coiled around the various parts it was supposed to keep moving. Expelling a disgusted breath, he set to work, hoping his little contribution would help her stay safe on the road and help her start a better life.

* * *

Leah and Gracie finished putting away the groceries.

Gracie told her she had never seen so much food in her life. That made Leah feel happy and sad at the same time.

“Well, now we have it all put away safe, so let’s go help Gran clean the bunkhouse and tell her about our windfall.” Leah held out her hand to Gracie, who grinned and clasped it with her good hand.

They pushed their way out of the front screen, and Gracie called a greeting to Ty, thus affording a great display of rippling muscles as he straightened from under the hood of Leah’s car and raised a hand to wave. He had ditched the T-shirt and looked like he belonged on the cover of a fitness magazine.

Dang! How hot is that? Leah swallowed and tried out a fake casual finger waggle while waves of lust roiled through her insides. He turned back to his task, and Gracie half dragged her around to the bunkhouse at the rear of the homestead.

She could hear Gran humming before they entered. All the windows were open, and the door stood ajar. When she stepped inside, Leah spotted Gran with a scarf tied around her head, turban-fashion. “Hey, Gran,” Leah called. “Reinforcements have arrived. What can we do to help?”

Gran was washing something in the sink. She rinsed some sort of glassware under the running water. “Hello, you two.”

Gracie broke free of Leah’s hand, running to Gran’s side. “Guess what Ty did?” she demanded. Without waiting for a reply, she went on, “Ty bought a whole bunch of food for us. Mommy and I put it all away.”

Gran frowned and then looked at Leah for confirmation.

Leah shrugged. “He sure did. When we went to the store, he just went up and down the aisles and filled the cart. Nothing I could do to stop him.” She picked up a tea towel and began to dry off the glass globes Gran had placed on the drain board.

“Well, he shouldn’t spend his money like that. Nice young fellow, but surely he doesn’t think we’re some sort of charity case.”

“Oh no,” Leah said. “I’m certain he doesn’t think that. He took me to lunch too.”

Gran smiled at that. “I think that boy is sweet on you, Leah. Yes, I do.”

Leah felt her face heat up. “He was just being nice…but guess what?”

Gracie and Gran said “What?” at the same time.

“I got a job. Ty took me to see a man, and he hired me on the spot.”

“Yay, Mommy!” Gracie danced around with her good arm waving over her head.

Gran’s eyes almost popped out of her head. “Doin’ what? It ain’t nothin’ unrespectable, is it?”

Leah shook her head. “Nothing like that. I’ll be working for a Mr. Ryan who is a lawyer there in Langston. He told me to come in and start tomorrow. It was because he knew Ty’s papa.”

“Well, I suppose that’s all right then. I heard of Mr. Ryan. He’s supposed to be a pretty good man.” Gran pursed her lips. “Sounds like Ty is a fine, upstanding young man. Maybe you ought to set your cap for him.”

Yeah right. Leah gnawed her bottom lip. “I don’t think so. He’ll be leaving soon, but I’m glad to have a job. I really appreciate what he did for me.”

“You could do a lot worse.” Gran gave her an amused look.

“Listen, Gran, what about those guys who set fire to your barn? Are they still giving you trouble?”

Gran’s entire appearance morphed from pleasant to grim. “Just forget about ’em. They’s the scum of the earth.”

“You said they were messing with you. What did you mean by that?”

Her grandmother heaved a huge sigh. “They ain’t important. Don’t you worry. I can hold my own with those two.”

Alarmed, Leah moved closer, lowering her voice to a whisper. “I don’t think you’re being truthful. What’s really going on?”

“I got into it with their old man. Now he’s sendin’ his weaselly boys to give me a hard time.”

“Tell me the truth. Did they set fire to the barn?” Leah’s stomach was clenched like a fist.

“No tellin’, but I’m pretty sure they did. I caught it early on and got it put out real quick.”

“Oh no. What if they try something like that again?” Leah worried about bringing her daughter into such a dangerous situation.

Her grandmother spat out a derisive sound. “I’ll blast them boys all the way back to their papa’s place. Don’t you worry one little bit.”

Gracie came closer, tugging on Leah’s sleeve. “Mommy, what can I do to help?”

Leah spied a glass container that looked like it would hold water or juice. “Here, honey. Why don’t I fill this with water, and you can put it in the refrigerator so Ty will have something cold to drink?” She handed Gracie the filled jug and watched as she crossed the room to put it on a shelf in the old avocado-green refrigerator.

Gran was quite tight-lipped, so Leah did not bring up the topic of the vandalism again.

She finished drying the glass and glanced around. “It looks great in here, Gran.”

“I’ve put fresh sheets on the one bed, and I plugged in the refrigerator in case he wants to keep something in it.” She waved her hands around. “I cleaned up the kitchen and tried to tidy things a bit.” She picked up one of the glass objects. “I even washed the light fixtures. They were a mite dusty.”

In a flash, Leah realized her grandmother had stood on a rickety chair to take the glass globes down. She shuddered to think what might have happened. “Let me put those back up for you.” She took the globes and arranged them on the small dinette table and chose a sturdier chair to stand on.

From her vantage point, she kept an eye on her daughter and Gran as they worked around the room, making things nice for Ty. When she had the light fixtures rearranged, Leah climbed down from her perch. “This place looks real homey. I’m sure Ty will appreciate your efforts.”

Gran beamed, and Gracie twirled around in a circle.

With a pang, Leah realized she wasn’t the only one who had become dangerously attached to Tyler Garrett.

* * *

He grinned and leaned his forearms on the fender. The new serpentine belt snaked its way through all the machinations it was supposed to keep moving, just as it should, and he was feeling pretty smug about it. The oil change must have helped, because the engine, while not exactly purring, was at least not chugging as it had done previously.

Ty straightened and wiped his hands on a rag he kept in his toolbox. He closed the hood and turned to find Leah standing behind him. “Whoa! I almost stepped on you.”

She was smiling now, but it was a sad little smile. “It wouldn’t be the first time I’ve been stepped on.”

Ouch! He managed to get hold of his sharp retort before it left his lips. She needed to stop thinking of herself as a doormat, but maybe she had been stepped on too many times to know how to be anything else. “Want to try ’er out?”

“Sure,” she said, and then her smile faded. “Maybe I better save the gas for tomorrow. The tank was pretty low when—when you found us.”

He slid into the driver’s seat and noted the level of the gas gauge. Running on fumes. “Well, I’m going to give it a quick spin. Jump in.”

Her big brown eyes opened wide, but she hurried to get in on the passenger side. She fumbled for the seat belt as he revved the motor. “That sounds a lot better than before. It reminded me of a coffee grinder.”

Ty drove to the end of the lane and then out onto the highway. The windows were open, and Leah’s hair was blowing away from her face, showing off the sharp angles of her cheekbones.

He found a side road and turned around.

Leah was still grinning when he returned to the farm and shut off the motor. “Ty, you’ve been so great—”

He cut her off by pulling her across the seat toward him.

She stared at him, her eyes wide and her mouth an undeniable invitation.

He couldn’t hold back any longer, capturing her luscious lips with his own.

The kiss was soft at first but quickly deepened. Her hand stroked his bare arm and reached to embrace him. Such a small gesture, but it set off a storm of lust raging in his core.

She pressed against him, the thin fabric of her shirt doing nothing to disguise the soft, warm woman beneath.

He heard a groan, surprised that it came from him. Tearing his lips away, he buried them in her windblown curls. How could he have fallen so far, so fast? And why now?

Holding her close, he felt his own heart throbbing in his chest. The timing couldn’t be worse. Why hadn’t he met her before, or better yet, after he had made it big in Nashville? He swallowed hard and pressed another kiss into her hair. “You can make it into Langston, but I’m going to get you some gas tomorrow so you can drive to your new job all week.” His voice came out husky and rough. Cradling her head in his hand, he kissed her forehead and drew back to gaze into her eyes.

She grinned breathlessly and nodded. “Thanks, Ty. Thank you so very much.”

He made a growling sound and raised an eyebrow at her.

“I mean, well…what else can I say but thanks?”

“That’s plenty.” He held her face in both hands and dropped a kiss on her nose. “Now, let me get back to work while there’s still some light left.” He climbed out and walked toward his truck.

* * *

Leah sat for a moment, relishing the warm comfort of his caring. She had no idea what tomorrow might bring, but for now, she was soaking it up like sunshine.

Reluctantly, she emerged, watching Ty’s retreating form as he moved with an athletic ease. He didn’t seem to have any idea how hot he looked with or without a shirt, which she found even more endearing.

When she stepped inside the house, she found Gran grinning at her. “So, that’s how it is, huh?”

Leah shrugged, trying to stifle an embarrassed grin of her own. “I’m not sure how it is, but I’m just going to see what happens. Ty is the one with an agenda, and he’ll have to decide what he wants.”

Gran gave her an appraising look. “Any fool can see that young man is mighty sweet on you. I think it would be a good idea to decide what you want, young lady.”

Leah pressed her lips together. “I…I want to be happy. I want to take care of my daughter and never put her in danger again.” She drew in a breath and blew it out forcefully. “I want us all to be safe…from…from…”

“We’ll be fine,” Gran spat out tersely. “Nobody better ever come around here intendin’ to hurt you or my little Gracie again. They just better not is all I’m sayin’.”

Leah spent the rest of the afternoon working around the house.

Gran had already surveyed the huge quantity of food now stored in her refrigerator and pantry. A large bowl of fresh fruit sat in the center of the table, washed and ready to be eaten.

Leah could almost see the thoughts whirling around her grandmother’s head. Gran realized what a nice man Ty was, and she wanted there to be something lasting between him and Leah, but Leah wanted to be fair. As much as she would like to believe such a forever was possible, she knew Ty’s dreams of a music career had to be respected, so she would remain quiet and let things play out as they should.

As the sunlight faded, Ty remained outside, working. He was nowhere to be seen, although Leah frequently cast a glance through the screen door.

She helped Gran with dinner, which was more elaborate than before. The aroma of a luscious meatloaf in the oven wafted through the air. And Gran had made biscuits and tomato gravy.

Leah made a big pot of creamy mashed potatoes and arranged a salad in a glass bowl. Finally, she placed the brand-new bottle of ranch dressing on the table next to the fruit bowl.

“You better go out and see what Ty’s up to. Tell him dinner will be ready in about twenty minutes.” Gran nodded her head toward the oven. “I made a cobbler with some of the peaches, so I’ll pop it in when the meatloaf is done.”

“I’ll tell him.” Leah started for the door.

“That young feller sure does know how to work hard. He ain’t no slacker.”

Leah stepped out onto the porch. The sun was low, streaking the blue sky with long fingers of purple and salmon. Glancing around, she didn’t see Ty, so she headed to the back of the property.

A bubble of joy rose in her chest as she spied him atop his big, black stallion. The horse danced a little, but Ty held the reins and stroked its neck. “Easy there, boy. You’re all right.”

Leah heard the same soothing tone he used on her when she was upset.

He looked up and spotted her, giving a wave. “Hey there.” Still bare-chested and wearing his Stetson, the sight of him set her pulses to racing.

“Hey, yourself.” Her words came out all gravelly. She cleared her throat. “Are you about ready for dinner? Gran says everything will be ready in twenty minutes or so.”

He flapped the stirrups against the horse’s flanks and rode to where she stood. “That’s about as perfect as perfect can be. Just enough time for me to take you for a ride.” He leaned down to her, extending an arm for her to grab onto.

She reached up, the desire to be held overcoming her shyness.

Ty swung her up effortlessly, arranging her astride the saddle in front of him. “Here you go. You’re okay.” His hand was on her thigh, burning through the denim.

An involuntary smile spread across her face. Yes, the same tone of voice he uses on the horse.

He arranged her hands on the saddle horn and wrapped one arm around her, resting it at her waist.

Exhaling, she tried to calm her jitters. I’m okay. But when Ty clicked the reins and the big horse started forward, she gripped his arm for dear life.

The horse was moving at an easy gait, and she realized she was in no danger of falling off. She tried to relax, and Ty pulled her back to rest against his chest. When they drew even with the front of the house, he turned his mount to the west, facing into the blazing glory of the sunset. She let out a little bleat of pleasure.

“Sure is pretty, isn’t it?” Ty’s deep voice rumbled in his chest, vibrated through her spine, and annexed her as a part of him.

She mumbled an acknowledgment of sorts, happy to be in his embrace. Happy to be happy.

They rode all around the property, but he headed back within the twenty allotted minutes. He drew up beside the porch and swung her down out of the saddle with one arm, then climbed down himself. He patted Prince on the neck and tied the reins to the porch railing.

Leah felt a sense of loss, having been deposited on her own two feet and deprived of the warm, secure blanket of Ty. She wrapped her arms around herself for comfort and waited as he made sure the horse was secure. She heard a soft whine and turned to find both dogs staring at her. Lucky swished his long and magnificent feathered tail, and Eddie waggled his curly little one.

When Ty turned to her, he looped his arm around her, ushered her up onto the porch, and held the door for her.

The aroma of good food hit her like a truck. She was suddenly aware of how hungry she was.

Ty grabbed a clean shirt from his duffel. “Let me wash up, and I’ll be right out.”

He disappeared down the hall and returned shortly, looking tidy with his shirt tucked in and his hair damp. “Something smells mighty good.”

Gran turned from the stove to give him a smile. “Well, after you brought all this food home, the least we can do is cook you up a good meal. Come right over here and fill your plate, young feller, and take your seat at the table.”

Ty gave a bow to Gracie and Leah. “Ladies first.”

Gracie pranced ahead of him, and he pulled Leah into place, bringing up the rear of the line.

Gran dished up the tasty food onto their plates and shooed them to the table. “I have peach cobbler in the oven, so save a little room for dessert.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Ty said. He took his plate and set it on the table but waited until Gran brought her own food, then held her chair before he seated himself.

Leah sucked in a breath. No fair! This man is making me fall in love with him. He’s going to break my heart when he leaves. She reached for her napkin, but Gracie clasped her hands, resting her cast on the table.

“Can I say grace?”

Gran clasped her hands together and nodded. “Of course you can, precious.”

Leah and Ty followed suit, bowing their heads.

Gracie’s eyes were closed as she fervently gave thanks for being there, for all the food, and for Ty, who saved them.

“Amen,” Gran said. “Now, dig in and enjoy, children. There’s plenty for seconds.”

Leah reached for the biscuits, took one, and passed the basket to Ty.

Gran leaned toward Ty. “How was your day, young man? I saw you workin’ real hard on Leah’s car.”

“Yes, ma’am. I got it running and repaired the barn door. I closed it up for you and repaired some of the fence that was down.”

“Land sakes! That’s a blessing.” Gran beamed across the table at him. “Them Carter boys have been cuttin’ my fence faster’n I been able to fix it. At first, I hired a couple o’ hands to help, but them Carters is a mean bunch, ’n they scared ’em off.” She scooped a bite of meatloaf into her mouth and chewed with a vengeance.

Ty set his fork down. “They’ve been cutting your fences?” His brow furrowed with concern.

Gran snorted. “Ol’ Man Carter’s been tryin’ to run me off this land since my husband passed.” She shook her head. “They’s all meaner’n the devil.”

Ty’s face looked grim. “Now that I think about it, I remember the Carter family. Ray and Dean were bullies when my oldest brother was in high school. Colt got into a few fights with the Carters.”

“Did he win?” Gran asked.

Ty nodded curtly. “Yes, ma’am. My brother Colton is bigger than me. He’s not one to start a fight, but he sure knew how to finish one.”

Silence as every person gathered around the table considered these revelations.

Finally, Gran laughed. A cackle, really. “I would have paid good money to have seen them Carters get their tails whupped.”

Another silence.

Leah tried to envision a man even bigger than Ty but couldn’t. Gran’s disclosure about the Carters had taken the general mood way down.

Ty picked up his fork. “Is this tomato gravy?” he asked. “I haven’t had anything this good since my mom passed.” He made sounds of appreciation.

“So sorry to hear that, Ty.” Gran gazed across the table at him. “I’m sure she’s up in heaven, lookin’ down on you right now and feelin’ proud as punch for raisin’ such a good man.”

He shook his head. “I don’t know about that, but she always encouraged me to go after my dreams of a singing career. She thought I had a voice worth listening to.” He winked at Gracie and quickly changed the subject. “Man! This meatloaf hits the spot. Could you pass me another biscuit, please?”

* * *

After dinner, Ty asked Leah if she had charged up the prepaid phone he’d given her. When she produced it, he made a call on his cell to activate it for her. Then he put Gran’s old rotary-dial phone number and his cell number into her contacts. He also added both numbers to his cell. “Now we’ll all be able to stay connected.”

Somehow, this gave Leah hope that he didn’t plan to drive off and forget her in a couple of days. She thanked him, pressing her lips together to keep from saying too much.

“No big deal. I need to take care of Prince. I’ll be back in a little while.”

“I—I can help,” Leah said.

“Miz Fern, Prince is enjoying his stall in your barn.”

“That’s good,” she said. “There’s plenty of fresh hay in the barn. One of them boys I hired to bale for me did a good job of gettin’ it stored right…then them Carters scared the bejesus out of him, an’ he never even come back to get his last paycheck.” The grim set of her mouth revealed her negative memory of that event.

A shiver that must have registered on the Richter scale coiled around Leah’s spine. She rubbed her arms, feeling guilty that her grandmother had gone through this bullying alone. She should have come to Langston after her grandfather passed. Maybe she could have deterred the Carters from their plan to intimidate the frail woman into selling off her land at a bargain price. And for sure, she would not have been so available when Caine got paroled. She gazed sorrowfully at her daughter managing to eat with the big cast on her arm.

She found Tyler staring hard. He looked almost as grim as Gran.

“Okay, you can come with me to say good night to my horse.” He headed for the door, and she trailed behind him.

She watched as he untied Prince’s reins from the porch railing and stroked the horse’s head and neck. “Good boy,” he crooned. He made a clicking noise and led Prince toward the back of the property. He held out his other hand to Leah who hurried to catch up. Somehow, placing her hand in Ty’s chased away the demons tormenting her and gave her courage to stride confidently beside him.

The big black stallion walked behind, his shoes making a clip-clop sound on the hard-baked earth. She was acutely conscious of the big animal on the other end of the reins. She gazed into his dark eyes, feeling a bit overmatched.

The barn was dark, but Ty threw the doors open wide and strode inside. He found a single bare lightbulb hanging in the center of the barn and pulled the knotted string. The bulb sprang to life, momentarily blinding her. The horse started, but Ty quieted him.

As her eyes adjusted to the light, she realized only the middle of the barn was bathed in light. Deep black shadows ringed the periphery.

Ty led the horse to the line of stalls located on one side of the barn. He chose one and led Prince inside before removing the saddle and reins. Heaving the saddle over the edge of the stall, he removed Prince’s reins and hung them on a nail by the stall door.

He proceeded to feed and water his horse as well as brush him with a curry brush. The horse’s black coat gleamed in the harsh light.

“That’s about it, big boy,” Ty said, giving Prince’s flank a final pat. He closed the door to the stall and turned to Leah. “Thanks.”

She grinned self-consciously. “I didn’t do anything.”

“Maybe I just like having you around.” He held out his arm.

“Well, in that case, you’re welcome.” She linked her arm through his and followed as he turned out the light and secured the barn door.

On the way back, Ty stopped to secure the chicken coop and the pen around the enclosure.

When they returned to the house, they found Gran and Grace had cleared the table, put away the food, and washed dishes. Gran was folding a dishcloth, which she hung over a rack inside the cabinet under the sink. “Ty, you get that horse put back in the barn?”

“Yes, Miz Fern. I fed him, and now he’s locked up tight in his stall.”

“Leah, why don’t you help Ty get his things settled in the bunkhouse?” Gran smiled encouragingly. “I’ll help Gracie with her bath and put her to bed.”

Leah glanced from Gran to Ty to Gracie. “Are you sure?”

As if to clinch matters, Gracie threw her arms around Leah’s neck. “Good night, Mommy.” Then she ran to give Ty the same treatment.

Given her earlier conversation with her grandmother, Leah suspected collusion.

“You sleep well, Gracie,” he called as she disappeared down the hallway in the direction of the bathroom.

Gran gave a little wave and trekked after her, leaving Leah alone with Ty.

She sucked in a breath. “Well, let’s get you settled, then.”

He nodded and picked up his bag. When they were outside, he got a few more things out of the truck, including a guitar case and some western shirts on hangers. Then he turned and looked at her expectantly.

She tucked her hand in the crook of his arm, content to walk along beside him as they made their way in the dark. Clouds had obscured the moon, so it lent very little illumination for their footsteps. “I should have brought the flashlight,” she said.

“Nah. We’re fine.”

“Are you always so sure of yourself?”

He chuckled in the darkness. “Well, I’ve survived this long. I have no reason to believe my time is up. Besides, I have things to do yet.”

“I see,” she said. “I suppose you think I should adopt your ridiculously positive attitude.”

“That’s the idea. Keep your chin up and your eyes on the prize. That’s my motto.” He made a kissy sound when Lucky veered off course to investigate something in the overgrowth beside the path, and the dog immediately fell in by his side.

“Here we are,” Leah announced when they reached the bunkhouse. Ty opened the door, and she reached inside to flip the light switch. “It’s not much, but you should be comfortable.”

Ty looked around and grinned. “Looks fine to me.” He sat his bags and paraphernalia on the floor beside the bed that had been made up. “It was real nice of your grandmother to go to such trouble.”

“Yeah, well, you’ve gone to a lot of trouble for us…for me.”

He shot her a look that went straight to her heart and brought a rush of color to her cheeks.

“I know you don’t want me to be all gushy with thanks, but everything you’re doing here makes a world of difference.” She ran her tongue over her lips. “For all of us, but especially for me.”

He lifted her chin, holding her gaze. “Aw, Leah, you’re about the sweetest thing I’ve ever come across. I wish I could do more.”

“You’re doing plenty,” she breathed, her heart thumping so hard against her ribs she was pretty sure he could hear.

Ty leaned down and placed a gentle kiss on her mouth. The next kiss wasn’t so gentle. Nor the one after that. He wrenched his lips away from hers. “I don’t know what it is about you, but once I kiss you, I don’t want to stop.” His gaze seemed to impale her very soul.

Leah swallowed hard. “I—I don’t want to stop either.” She felt her cheeks burning under his scrutiny.

He leaned closer, his cheek pressed to hers. “Tell you what. Let me get some things in my life straightened out, and then we can take a good look at what we have here. You can tell me then if you want me to stop.”

Her knees almost buckled beneath her. “Okay,” she whispered.

He kissed her cheek and then her neck, just below her ear.

Shivers followed the trail his lips made.

“I think I better walk you back to the house. I can’t have you falling down in the dark.”

Leah sucked in a breath. “No, couldn’t have that.”

* * *

Leah climbed in her car the next morning. She tried to quell the butterflies flying relay races in her stomach. First day on her new job, and not just any job. Working for Breckenridge T. Ryan would be the best job she ever had. I’ve got to make a good impression. Sucking in a deep breath, she blew it out, puffing her cheeks in the process.

Her hand shook as she fumbled to insert the key in the ignition. The keys slipped and jangled to the floorboard. Heaving an impatient sigh, she scrunched down to search for them, her fingers scrabbling over the dusty floor mat.

“Good morning.”

She straightened suddenly to find Ty leaning his forearms on her open window. “Oh, hi…I mean, good morning.” Raking her fingers through her disheveled hair, she flashed him a nervous grin. “I was going to leave for my new job. Can’t afford to be late the first day.”

He reached in to pat her on the shoulder with his big paw. “Don’t worry. You’ll do fine.”

Pressing her lips together, she nodded and stuck the key in the ignition again, this time with success.

The intensity of his gaze set her insides on fire. Then, quick as anything, he swept off his Stetson and leaned in to kiss her lips.

Startled, she stared at him, then flashed a smile. A rush of joy surged through her insides. This was going to be a good day. At least it was starting off right. She put the car in reverse and backed up a ways, trying not to show how much his kiss affected her. When she could turn the car around, she headed toward the road leading to the main highway. Only then did she look back to see the big cowboy staring after her, his thumbs hooked in his belt loops. Somehow, just knowing Ty was watching her sent a rare glow of self-confidence throughout her being. “I can do this,” she said aloud.

When she arrived in Langston, she found the attorney’s office quite easily, there being only two or three main streets to contend with. She pulled into a parking space out front, beside a big truck reminiscent of Ty’s behemoth on wheels.

Glancing at her face in the mirror, she heaved a sigh. The wind whipping through the open windows had done a number on her hair, and her cheeks were pink. She took a moment to sweep her hair into a ponytail and secure it with a scrunchie. Not great but better.

Taking a deep breath, she got out of the car, crossed the sidewalk, and stepped inside the office.

Her new boss was bending over a wastebasket beside the reception desk with his sleeves rolled up and his tie askew. “Good morning, Mr. Ryan,” she called.

“Good morning, Leah. Please call me Breck.” He sighed. “It will just make things easier.”

She smiled and approached the reception desk. “Um, can I help you with that?”

He grinned up at her. “I was trying to make things easier on you by getting rid of a lot of crap. I don’t want you to go running out the door on your first day.”

“No chance of that,” she said. “I’m tougher than I look.”

Breck surveyed her, bringing a flush to her cheeks. “Good to know.” He straightened and gestured to the roll-around chair. “This will be your guard post, where you will screen the few calls I receive every day and vet the even fewer visitors.” He raised an eyebrow. “I’m a rancher, Leah. I divide my time between the ranches and this office. I do have a law practice that includes everything from the drawing up of wills and managing estates to arranging for the release of someone’s teenage son who went on a spree. Not like in the big city.”

She wasn’t sure what she was supposed to say to that. “I’m sure I’ll figure it all out.”

He grinned broadly. “Just see what you can do with the files and answer the phone then. I’ll be in my office.” He strode into said office and closed the door.

Leah released the breath she had been holding. Sinking onto the chair, she inspected the desktop and opened drawers. Clutter, clutter everywhere.

Dragging the wastebasket closer, she disposed of a used lipstick, empty gum wrappers, and a few bobby pins. She got a damp paper towel from the restroom to wipe out the large file drawer on the side and then put her small handbag inside. Simply sliding the drawer closed gave her a great sense of accomplishment.

She went through the remaining drawers, one by one, and managed to separate the trash from the office supplies. Tackling the desktop was another matter. A scarred piece of glass protected the darkened wood beneath. Leah finally cleared off everything and spritzed it with glass cleaner she found in the restroom under the lavatory. It smelled nice. An aroma she identified with the word clean.

Knocking softly on the attorney’s door, she heard him tell her to come in.

“Mr. Ryan, I mean Breck.” She smiled at that. “Where do I dump the trash?”

He swiveled around and rose to his feet. “Here, let me show you.” He took the wastebasket from her hands and strode rapidly through a door hidden between filing cabinets in the back of the building. He led her out into a narrow alleyway. “These are our trash cans. It gets picked up weekly whether we fill them or not.” He lifted a lid and dumped the contents of the wastebasket before clanging the lid down on top of it.

“Oh, hey, Breck!”

Leah turned to see an attractive young woman stepping out of another doorway leading to the alleyway.

“Hey yourself, Sara Beth. This is Leah, my new secretary. Be nice to her.” Breck grinned widely.

The woman giggled. “Well, I sure will do that. Hi, Leah. Come down and see me later. I’ve got some great homemade cookies I’m willing to share.”

Leah grinned and waved shyly. Still, Sara Beth looked friendly, and she could use a friend.

She spent the rest of the morning trying to get a handle on the filing system and answered the phone twice. She felt a little better about her ability to handle this job. Not so bad, and I get paid every week.

Breck stepped out of his office with a black Stetson in hand. He nodded at Leah and set the hat on his head. “I’m going to meet my wife for lunch. Take your break whenever you want. Just lock up and put the sign in the door.”

Leah jumped to her feet. “Lock? Sign?” She glanced around frantically.

Breck shook his head. “My bad. So much for your orientation.” He pointed to the old-fashioned coat-tree behind the door where a clockface sign with movable arms was hanging.

Leah nodded.

“Here you go.” Breck fished a set of keys out of his pocket and slid it onto her desk. “I forgot to give these to you. If I’m not back by five sharp, just turn out the lights, close up, and lock the doors.” He grinned at her and sauntered out the door.

Swallowing hard, Leah picked up the keys. Two darkened brass skeleton keys and several smaller shiny ones. I can do this.

She glanced at the big clock positioned above the file cabinets. Early yet. Just a little after eleven. She had made a sandwich and stuck it in a ziplock bag in her purse. Maybe she would just eat at her desk. There was a big water cooler in the corner and a sleeve of small cups lying sideways across the top. Leah took out the plastic bag and placed it reverently in front of her on the desk, then rose to get a cup of cold water. This will do nicely. Returning to her desk, she took her seat and removed the peanut butter and grape jelly sandwich from the bag. She quietly ate her lunch, glad she was able to keep the ten dollars safe in her purse. No telling what she might need it for.