Bareback For Cowboy Read online

  “Yes, definitely. I’ll try to choke it down and not cry the whole way through it.” She smiled weakly.

  “You don’t have to have any. You could just watch me eat, and I eat all the time.”

  She loved everything about him: his smile, the sound of his voice, his mannerisms, all of it. Her heart stopped when she realized she’d have to leave him and head back to Paris. No matter how she tried to fool herself or him, she’d let herself get too involved. How had she believed coming here would be a good idea?

  Item by item he picked up the groceries. “Like a plane, things always shift while in transit, and each time I seem to forget that when I open the cupboards.”

  Everything about him gleamed with sex appeal. His biceps bulged with each item he picked up. Her hands ached to be splayed over his broad chest. She got up to help him. Perhaps it had been a good thing Alex had showed up. Perhaps leaving in a few days would be best. She didn’t know if her heart would survive a full ten days with him.

  They sat at the table eating and conversing about all the times he’d been forced to babysit her, and how he hated every moment and how she loved every second.

  He finished his soup and grabbed a plain cracker. “I was thinking that tomorrow afternoon you might like to visit the ranch…and Mom…if you’re up to it?”

  His mom was like a second mother to her, and the two of them were in contact often, especially after the accident. “That would be wonderful.”

  “Great. Mom called me earlier today. Her chemo treatment went well, and she even feels well enough to come for a visit. That wonderful Mrs. Shaffer is going to bring her to the ranch.”

  “I haven’t seen your mom since the funeral. She’s always been so great to me.” Again she yawned.

  Cade picked up the bowls and carried them to the sink. “I think you should go to bed.” He crossed his arms over his chest.

  “I think you’re right.”

  He pointed to the bedroom. “Off you go.”

  “Hey, I have a question.” She hesitated. “Do you think you would sleep with me for tonight?”

  It could have been paranoia, but for a brief second, she thought he might say no.

  “You really want me to sleep with you?”

  She raised her arms in the air. “I can’t afford to keep replacing the blinds. Maybe you can tackle me if I have a nightmare.” She shrugged her shoulders.

  “I think you just want to use and abuse me again,” he teased, raising one eyebrow.

  “Well, there’s always that, but hey, I promise I won’t.” She made the motion of crossing her heart. “I’ll behave.”

  He stalked like a prowling cat toward her. “What if I don’t want you to behave?” he asked, scooping her up in his arms.

  ***

  She watched from the sidelines as Cade readied himself on the back of Bella and prepared to launch forward after the steer. Up to this point and time he was winning, and she didn’t think that would change. She held her breath watching as the steer dashed from the shoot with Cade and Bella racing behind trying to catch the animal. When Cade was close enough to the side, he leapt from Bella’s back, grabbed the steer by the horns, and twisted him to the ground. The crowd cheered, and her heart swelled with happiness at the sight of him. Her phone rang, breaking the magical moment. It was Alex and somehow she knew it would be.

  “Hi, Alex,” she answered. “I know. I’m sorry I didn’t call you back this morning. Things got busy.”

  Her eyes were still pinned on Cade, and like the rides before, he lifted his hat and nodded at her. She waved, then turned her back to him.

  “Tomorrow night?” she asked. “It won’t be a pretty flight home,” she said sadly.

  Slowly she swallowed the lump in her throat. “I have to go, Alex. I’m sorry I won’t be able to see you today. I’ll meet you at the airport tomorrow night.” She hung up, wishing she didn’t have to leave so soon.

  A crazy thought jumped into her head. Did she really have to leave? It was silly to think such a thing. Of course she had to go. She’d lose her job and, more importantly, she didn’t think Cade would necessarily care about her leaving. He sauntered his way toward her from the far side of the arena. She smiled slightly, thinking he should be made illegal.

  “You’re definitely going to win!” she shouted over the fence.

  “You must be a good luck charm.” He removed his hat to look up at her.

  She looked down at him from where she’d scurried up the fence. “Never been anybody’s good luck charm before.”

  He put his hat back on. “I’ll be done here in about an hour, and we can take off for the ranch. How does that sound?”

  “I’ll be ready!”

  With a sexy wink, he turned and walked away, taking her heart with him.

  Chapter Nine

  Clouds built to the west. “There’s a doozy of a storm coming.”

  She turned to the side, looking to her right and over her shoulder. “It’s really black up there.”

  “We get some bad ones.” He nodded. “Tornados and such.”

  She gasped and Cade noticed her eyes widen. “Tornados?”

  “July is the worst month, but the warnings and watches usually spare most of us.”

  “I didn’t realize you get them here in Alberta. I don’t remember that when I was younger.”

  “Well, that’s just it, none of us seem to remember the storms being so severe. Perhaps our weather tracking system’s gotten a whole lot more sophisticated.”

  They turned off the highway and he caught Sophia staring at the tall pillars on either side of the driveway with the large etched wooden sign displaying the name Galloway’s.

  “I don’t remember that from ten years ago.” She turned her head looking out the window.

  “Quite a few things have changed out here in recent years.”

  The first thing coming into view was the giant arena. “Wow! I know that certainly wasn’t here before.”

  “Yes, that’s new. The building contains a large arena, stables, a main lobby for business entertainment, and staff quarters for the ranch hands. When I decided to become serious about the rodeo circuit and training horses, we needed an indoor arena, and now we own some fairly expensive stallions and mares. We’ve also added onto the house.”

  The sprawling ranch came into view, and Cade smiled. He loved it here, just as much as his father and mother had.

  As if she read his mind, she asked, “Why doesn’t your mom stay here anymore?”

  “It’s too far from the city for her. With her failing health and loneliness, she found it much easier in the city. Calgary was too large, but Red Deer has everything she needs.”

  On the front porch, his mom stood wiping her hands on her apron. “Darn her. I told her not to tire herself out by cooking us dinner.”

  Sophia laughed. “She’s just like my mom. They never listen, do they?”

  Cade pulled the truck up into the driveway and opened the door. Trixie, his blue heeler, met him happily. He bent down to give her a quick pet. “Hi girl! Yes, I missed you, too.”

  Sophia leapt from the truck wearing a pair of cutoff blue jean shorts and a colorful T-shirt. It reminded him of what she used to wear, but now…well, damn she looked hot. It didn’t matter what she wore.

  His mom came down the porch stairs. Sophia headed directly to her for a hug. Cade noticed the tears welling up in Sophia’s large green eyes.

  “I’m so sorry, Sophia. Your mom was and will always be one of the most precious people in my life.”

  Feeling awkward, Cade opened the back door of the truck and removed the bags they’d brought for their overnight trip. He set them down on the porch.

  The two women dried their eyes, and Cade stepped up to hug his mom. “Hi, Mom.” He kissed her on the cheek.

  “Your dad would be proud, son. I’ve been watching you from afar.”

  “It’s been pretty good so far, I think it must be Sophia’s visit. Maybe she’s a good luck
charm?”

  “I wouldn’t doubt it. Come on, you two, supper is almost ready.”

  Cade grinned, rubbing his stomach. “I can smell that pot roast all the way out here.”

  A large deep rumble followed by a quick flash of lightning had Sophia jumping with a shriek.

  “We’re in for a doozy of a storm in less than one minute, I’d say. In you go.” His mom shooed them into the ranch.

  Inside, Mrs. Shaffer also greeted them.

  “I can’t thank you enough for always being there to help Mom out.” Cade hugged her.

  “Silly boy.” She tilted her gray-haired head to the side.

  “Your mother is a good friend, and I certainly don’t mind spending time here at the ranch. It truly is beautiful.” She turned and looked out the grand window.

  There wasn’t a finer place in the whole world. He loved the rolling hills and mountains off in the background. Nothing would ever change his mind about that fact. From his peripheral vision, he caught Sophia staring off into the distance, seemingly caught in a spell. Only when her smile faded did he wonder if she might not be okay.

  His mom must have noticed the same thing. “Come on, I’ll show you to your room, Sophia. Cade, would you mind bringing her things?”

  “Nothing looks like I remember it. You must have done some major renovations?”

  “You’re correct, sweetie. The whole house took on a facelift…so to speak.”

  “It’s breathtaking.”

  “We think so, don’t we?” She looked in his direction.

  “It’s alright,” he responded with a nonchalant shrug of his shoulders.

  His mom swatted him in the arm. “You’re a brat!”

  He flinched and laughed. His mother was a beautiful woman, even with no hair. Her hazel eyes still sparkled with life, and her skin glowed with radiance. He knew she’d overcome the cancer.

  Another loud clap of thunder rattled the house, sending Sophia to cover her head. Cade placed his arm around her waist. “Dinner is calling me.” He did his best to put a smile back on her face.

  Making their way to the dining room, he pulled out a chair for Sophia to sit at the beautifully laid-out table. Cade watched his mother light a series of candles all around the room and put out a couple flashlights. Before the meal was over, the power failed. Sheets of water pelted the large windows and the wind bent the trees to an unnatural position.

  Cade stood and pushed up from the table. “I’m going to make you ladies a fire, and then I think I should go.”

  “You don’t need to,” his mom stated.

  “I don’t feel right about not helping the boys check on the cattle.”

  Certain he saw the look on Sophia’s face turn from confused to concerned, he laughed a bit and teased, “It’s only rain. I’m not going to melt like the Wicked Witch.”

  “How long will you be?” Sophia asked anxiously.

  “I’m not exactly sure. If it’s too late, I won’t disturb you ladies. My room is in the stables, anyway.”

  “Oh,” she blurted out, hanging her head.

  “You go, son. We girls have a lot to catch up on.”

  His eyes locked with Sophia’s awkwardly. He wanted to kiss her, but instead he turned on his heel and left the room. Over his shoulder, he shouted, “Thank you for the fabulous dinner.”

  ***

  Sophia couldn’t help but feel his loss. What was wrong with her? She’d only spent a couple nights and a few days with him.

  “Things have changed quite a bit since Cade last saw you,” Rachelle announced.

  She cleared her throat and took a sip of wine. “I think he still expected me to be the gangly teenager in braces.”

  “Yes, I’m certain he did.”

  Another flash of lightning caused her to jump. “Will they really be okay out there?”

  Mrs. Shaffer chuckled and started to clear the table. Rachelle pushed away to do the same.

  “No worries, dear. He will be just fine.”

  She clung to the napkin before setting it down. “It’s dreadful out there.”

  “These storms are quite common here.”

  “I don’t remember them being so harsh.”

  “July is the worst month.” Rachelle grabbed the bowl from the table.

  “Let me help with that.” Sophia took the bowl from her and carried it to the large island. Returning to the table, she picked up and stacked the dirty plates. In a short period of time, and done by candlelight, the dishes were cleared and neatly placed away in the dishwasher to await the return of power.

  Another bolt of lightning shot through the sky, momentarily illuminating the house. Sophia couldn’t help but jump and found herself standing in front of the fire looking out the window.

  “I don’t like storms anymore.”

  Rachelle followed, placing a hand on Sophia’s arm. Warmth and reassurance calmed her nerves.

  “It’s okay, dear, I can see how you wouldn’t like storms.”

  Sophia closed her eyes and shook her head. “It was horrible. I just can’t seem to forget the images. Sometimes I don’t think I’ll ever be okay again.”

  “Time heals all, or so they say.”

  “I’ve had a great couple days with Cade. The best actually.”

  Rachelle chuckled.

  “How could you not have fun with that boy. He’s such a sweetheart,” Mrs. Shaffer joined in. “I must say, ladies, I’ve got to turn in. I’m exceptionally tired tonight. Sophia, it was a pleasure to meet you, and again I’m so sorry about the loss of your mother.”

  The elderly woman pulled Sophia into her arms for a sincere hug. “For what it’s worth, I think that young man likes you. Have a good night, Rachelle, and don’t stay up too late. I know you’re tough as nails, but you need rest. Since you’ve decided to stay for a few more days, perhaps you can sleep in tomorrow morning. I have to leave early so I’ll try not to wake you.” Rachelle's friend smiled.

  Rachelle leaned over and kissed the woman’s cheek. “God has blessed me time and time again. Friends like you and Sophia’s mother come only on the wings of angels.”

  A smile formed on Sophia’s face. Not just because of the kind words from Rachelle, but also because of her friend’s comment that Cade might like her.

  Mrs. Shaffer made her way down the hall with one of the flashlights.

  “We do have a generator, but I hate that thing. It’s noisy and I always tell Cade the power’s not off long enough. He insists on having one in the stable for the horses.”

  Sophia turned to the fire and stared at the dancing flames. “Because I love you like a mom, I don’t mind telling you I’ve always had a crush on your son. I know you’re his mom, but it is the truth.”

  Rachelle had a large, all-knowing smile. “Sweetie, mothers don’t miss a beat. Both your mother and I knew you had a crush on Cade. Perhaps you aren’t the only one with a crush this time?”

  The question made her eyes widen with excitement, but quickly she realized it would be foolish to entertain the thought.

  “I see the way girls look at him. He’s a celebrity around here. I’d be delusional to think he’d be truly interested.”

  “I don’t know, he seems different around you, and a mother always notices these things. Perhaps you should ask him how he feels?”

  Sophia let her mind wander, dreaming for a second that he might want a relationship and not just more romps in the hay. She shook her head and put up her hands to feel the warmth of the fire.

  “I couldn’t take that kind of rejection right now. Not with Mom’s death and all. I’m just happy he’s let me into his life for the moment.”

  “I see.” Rachelle grinned, then covered a yawn.

  “You look tired. Mrs. Shaffer is right; you need your rest. Why don’t you go to bed? If it’s alright with you, I’ll run across to the stables and visit the horses for a while?”

  “You’ll get soaked going out there, but I’ll watch you from the front door to make sure you mak
e it okay.”

  ***

  Rain pelted her in a vicious attack as she ran across the front yard and up the stairs to the stables. She turned the doorknob and looked back to wave to Rachelle. Closing the door behind her, dim lights allowed her to see where she was going. She heard the gentle rumble of a motor coming from somewhere. It must be the generators Rachelle spoke of.

  When her eyes adjusted to the light, her mouth dropped. This must be the lobby Cade said they used for entertaining. The size shocked her, but it was the décor that took her breath away. Beautifully rustic timbers had been used to create the most unique furniture. She knew a lot about furniture and design. It was what she did for a living. This type of design wouldn’t exactly fit in Paris, but she was familiar with it. It fit the ranch…and Cade’s personality. Running her hand over the leather, she let her thoughts drift back to him. Quickly, she closed her eyes from the sting of unshed tears, wishing things could be different between her and Cade. She snatched her hand away, making a fist with her nails biting into her flesh.

  She stared at the halls jutting down the length of the building both to the left and the right. A horse nickered off to the right. Turning in that direction, she followed the noise until straight ahead of her was a door. This door had to lead into the arena and stables, but the door off to her left caught her attention. Instinctively, she knew it had to be Cade’s room. She turned the doorknob and hesitantly pushed it open. Immediately, the scent of his masculine spicy cologne, mixed with the smell of horses and leather, washed over her, making her smile. There was a giant king-size bed made in the similar log style, and the dark masculine comforter screamed his name. She kicked her shoes off, found her way to the bathroom, and grabbed a towel to remove the water dripping from her long locks. Dismally, she shivered and realized her bags were in the main house. Sitting in the overstuffed chair, she looked around his bedroom, but the noise coming from what must be the arena made her want to investigate. Obviously something caused the horses to sound frantic. Folding the damp towel, she laid it on the arm of the chair, slipped on a pair of Cade’s large slippers, and left the room. Only one door remained. She headed toward it and entered the arena.