Sunset Seduction

Ten



Audrey woke to an empty bed. Well, not entirely empty. She glanced to her side and picked up a lavender shoot with light purple buds lying across the sheets. She brought the pretty flower to her nose. The scent was fragrant and sweet and flavored the air in Luke’s bedroom. Then she lifted the note he’d left beneath the stalk and read it silently.


Sorry to leave you. I have an early appointment in Carson City. See you tonight at dinner.

Luke

“You’ve got a date,” she breathed softly. Pain squeezed her heart. She wished he’d declared his love for her and asked her out on a real date. Last night, she’d ignored her internal warnings to stay clear of him, to protect herself at all costs. And today, she’d pay the price for her one night of indulgence. Nothing had changed.

She rose, her bare feet hitting the hardwood floor from the tall four-poster bed. On impulse, she turned to run her hand along the smooth Egyptian cotton sheets where Luke had made love to her. A sigh of longing escaped her throat. His hot kisses, his sensual caresses and their joined bodies totally in sync with each other meshed in her mind. She savored the heady memory.

The rest of the morning flew by. At the barn, she saddled up three horses and led each one of them up into the hilly country for long, brisk walks. Then she took time to wash down and groom each one. Audrey was in her element among the animals and the ranch hands. Today, especially, was a productive day.

Ward Halliday approached her as she was putting away tack. “Hey, Audrey.”

“Good afternoon, Ward. How’re you doing today?”

She turned to face him across the length of the tack room. The friendly smile that brightened his leathery face was gone. The usual spark in his eyes was gone, too. “I’m doing fine.”

“Really? Because you’re looking a little frazzled around the collar.”

He shrugged a shoulder, his lips tight with regret. “My boy has to leave for college a week early. They moved up orientation and it’s no point him going all the way to Texas and back. He’s gonna stay put once he gets there.”

“Oh, no! When’s he leaving?”

“On the red-eye tonight. My wife, Molly, is fixing him a big farewell supper, all his favorites.”

“So what are you doing here?”

“Well, I’m working. Gonna finish out the day.”

She began shaking her head. There was no way Ward was going to miss being with Hunter on his last day home. “Ward, please let me finish up the few chores that are left. You should go home and be with your family. The boys can help me with anything else that needs doing.”

“I appreciate that but—”

“Please, let me do this for you. Go home and spend time with Hunter today. He’s probably excited and nervous and can use you around to settle him down.”

Ward lifted the rim of his hat and gave her a sheepish look. “Who’s gonna settle me down?”

“Molly.”

Ward chuckled.

“I’ve got this, really. I’ll make sure the horses are fed and stabled for the night.”

He looked at her like a child opening an early Christmas present. “Thank you, Audrey. I’ll be sure to stop by the house on our way to the airport so Hunter can say a proper goodbye to you all.”

“Darn right you will. I’ve gotta give Hunter a big hug and some tips on college life.”

Audrey walked with Ward arm in arm outside the barn doors. She watched him get into his truck, start the engine and drive along the road that led to the main highway.

Jewel brushed against her legs and she glanced down at her cat, who had pretty much taken over the Slade house perimeter. “What are you up to, Jewel?”

Meow.

“Same as usual, I see.”

Audrey finished up her chores and then strode over to the other barn to see Trib. It was her daily outing, and she was thrilled to see the horse really beginning to relate to her. He no longer shied away when she opened the half door of the paddock and Jewel jumped up. The horse was turning the corner in the trust department and Audrey couldn’t be more pleased.

Jewel took her seat on the ledge of the half door and looked for her new friend. Then the cat meowed and glanced at Audrey curiously. Audrey scanned the paddock. Tribute wasn’t in his stall.

In her haste to convince Ward to head home, she’d forgotten about Trib and apparently so had the foreman. Now, as she walked outside and peeked around the corner of the barn, she saw Trib standing on the far end of the corral, blending into the shadows under an oak tree.

“There you are,” she said congenially.

Trib spotted her and snorted. He could make this hard for her, or he could make this easy. “Come here, boy,” she called to him. “Gotta get you settled for the night.”

The horse gave her a stubborn stare and didn’t budge. “Are you kidding me,” she muttered under her breath. Apparently Trib was going to live up to his nickname of Tribulation today.

Jewel’s nose nudged her leg. “Would you look at our friend over there,” she said to her cat. “I think he wants me to come get him.”

The horse whinnied softly and took a few steps forward, toward them. Audrey smiled. “He does. He’s telling me to come get him.”

Audrey knew he was ready. He was giving her his trust. Over the past few days, she’d made incredible progress with him. She had to thank Jewel for some of that; the two had become cautious, but endearing friends.

She didn’t waste another second. This was an opportunity to really earn her keep around here. She was being paid to do a job, and with Ward gone, and no one else close enough to the stallion to bring him in, she knew she could do it.

Trib would cooperate.

She felt it in her bones.

The horse took another step closer, then stopped and watched her. “I’ll be right there, I’m coming to get you, Trib.”

She quickly walked into the barn, grabbed a handful of sugar cubes and gathered up a bridle and lead rope.

Jewel seemed bored with it all and began swatting at flies buzzing around the feed bags in the barn. Audrey left her there and walked back outside.

Taking measured steps, she kept her eyes on the horse as she made her approach with the rope and halter in one hand and a fistful of sugar in the other.

Now out in broad sunlight, away from the dark and light shadows Trib appeared friendly and amiable. She walked within a few feet of him and put out her hand. “Here you go, boy.”

He craned his neck forward and brought his mouth to her hand, nibbling away at the sugar until it was all gone.

“I’ve got to get you home,” she said softly. Steadily, she fit the rope halter over his head and adjusted it under his chin. Trib stood still and allowed her to fasten the five-foot lead rope to the harness.

She gave his mane a soft pat. “Okay, we’re almost ready. You’re doing fine.”

With great care, she led him forward toward the barn, all the while talking quietly and calmly to him.

Midway to the barn, she caught a glimpse of a cowboy at the fence post.

Uh-oh.

“Audrey. What in hell are you doing?” Luke spoke quietly enough not to spook the horse. But his angry tone was unmistakable.

Refusing to be distracted, she stared at the horse. “I’ve been working with Trib and he’s ready.”

“Audrey, get out of there, right now,” he rasped with menace in his voice.

“You’re paying me to do a job.” Eyes still trained on Trib, she spoke softly. “And we’re doing just fine.”

“You’re fired. I don’t want you to—”

And suddenly, out of nowhere, an orange blur appeared, racing at top speed toward her, Blackie, the Slades’ Border collie, chasing Jewel and barking like crazy. Luke cursed. He bounded over the corral fence just as Trib jerked his head back and yanked on the lead rope. Audrey held on tight, as long as she could. But Trib was more powerful. The rope jerked free of her hands. She stumbled forward and managed at the last second to turn her body. She landed with a thud on her butt.

Jewel whizzed by with Blackie at her heels. It all happened so fast. Trib whinnied loudly enough for the next county to hear. He reared up, his front legs coming eight feet off the ground. Audrey froze. Seconds ticked by in slow motion as she watched the horse balance himself on his hind legs as if trying to keep from crashing down on her.

“Watch out!” Luke shouted, running toward her.

He fell to his knees and pressed her close, cosseting her with his body and creating a shield of protection around her. She thought for a split second everything would be okay.

And then the force of Trib’s frustration landed on Luke with a crushing sound.

She felt a thump.

Luke bellowed in pain. And then slumped over her like a rag doll, lifeless and limp.

“Luke! Luke!”

“Don’t move him!” one of the ranch hands shouted from a distance.

“We’re calling for help,” another one said.

Audrey held her breath, bearing Luke’s weight and sending up prayers for his life.

* * *

Audrey’s tears stained her shirt as she unpacked her bags with Jewel looking on. They were home. Finally back in Reno. Finally back where she belonged.

She hated herself, hated the pain and anguish she’d caused Luke. She couldn’t stay on at the ranch, though everyone tried like crazy to convince her not to go. How on earth could she stay? How could she face Luke after what had happened? She had a hard enough time facing herself in the mirror.

She’d almost caused his death.

She hadn’t listened to his warnings.

She wanted so badly to prove to Luke he’d been wrong about Trib.

But she was the one who’d been wrong about everything.

More tears spilled from her eyes. It wasn’t good for the baby for her to cry like this, so she forced herself to stop. It was hard and she didn’t deserve to give herself a break. She didn’t deserve much of anything right now.

Poor Jewel. Even her cat knew something was off. Jewel glanced around her surroundings with dismay. Her sheepskin kitty bed and three-tier cat house seemed to have lost their appeal. Jewel moped. The cat had gotten accustomed to being on Slade land. She’d grown out of her separation anxiety. Living at the ranch had been like therapy.

Audrey steadied her breathing. She couldn’t seem to keep a dry face. She had the feeling she would have cried just as hard even if she weren’t pregnant. No, her tears couldn’t be blamed on hormones. Her tears would’ve been shed regardless.

Inside, she bled for the big mess she’d made of things, but she couldn’t think about that at the moment. She couldn’t wallow in self-pity. Luke was the important one. He would survive. Though he’d be spending the next week in the hospital, he would make a full recovery.

He’d been lucky, the doctor said. The horse hooves hadn’t made a direct hit. The thick-lined leather jacket Luke was wearing had lessened the impact of the force. But one hoof had knocked into the back of his head.

Luke had gotten another concussion.

Strike one for Audrey.

His body took a hard pounding.

Strike two for Audrey.

His spine wasn’t injured, but all of his organs were badly bruised.

Three strikes and you’re out.

As soon as she’d gotten the news that Luke would make a full recovery, she’d left the ranch. It hadn’t been easy to leave, but guilt and remorse had a way of convincing her that she wasn’t worthy. That sticking around would just make matters worse. She’d already caused Luke a world of grief and pain. She would’ve been the last person he’d want to see when he woke up in the hospital. At some point, she would have to face him, because of the baby. He’d want to know the baby was all right. She wouldn’t deny him anything regarding their child, but she also didn’t want to burden his life with her presence. He had every right to blame her for all the trouble she’d caused him.

Oh, he probably would never forgive her.

She couldn’t fault him that; she’d never forgive herself.

Fresh tears burned behind her eyes. She squeezed them shut to prevent another flood. She would be eternally thankful to Luke for protecting the new life thriving inside her belly. The baby wasn’t injured. If Luke hadn’t come along when he did, who knows what would have happened?

A chill ran up and down her arms.

Our baby is safe. Thank you, Luke.

The phone rang. Audrey walked over to look at the digital number blinking on the screen.

Casey.

Like a mother hen, her brother had been calling her every day since he’d found out about the baby. Audrey didn’t pick up. She let the machine get it.

“If you’re there, please pick up. I need to talk to you.”

Please?

Since when did her brother say please?

Audrey plucked a tissue from the box and wiped her eyes. She took another one to blow her nose. Then before the machine clicked off, she grabbed the phone.

“Hello.”

“Well, you sound like death warmed over,” he said.

“I love you, too.”

Casey’s voice was full of concern. “How are you doing, sis?”

“At the moment, I’m not putting anyone’s life at risk, so I suppose it’s a good day.”

Her brother took an exasperated breath. “Audrey Faith.”

“I’m sorry, Case. But Luke was almost killed by that horse.”

“I’m gonna go out on a limb here and tell you it wasn’t your fault. None of it. The horse was spooked by the confusion in the corral. If he hadn’t been so darn isolated all that time, he wouldn’t have gotten jittery about seeing a dog chase a cat.”

“So now it’s Luke’s fault for keeping the horse in the paddock after he nearly trampled him the first time?”

“I’m saying it’s no one’s fault. It was a freakish accident.”

“Luke warned me about him, Casey. And I didn’t listen. I just went right ahead and did what I pleased. My gosh. Do you realize what might have happened?”

She shuddered in fear and wrapped her arm around her middle where the smallest baby bump had appeared just this week.

She was grateful to Luke for his fathering instincts. He’d rushed over to protect their child.

“And you pay him back for saving you and the baby by running out on him?”

“He fired me.”

Casey sighed. “To get you outta that corral safely.”

“I will work something out with Luke later on about the baby. He knows I won’t keep the baby from him. He knows—”

“You won’t marry him. That’s what he knows.”

“He doesn’t love me, Casey. What kind of marriage would it be?”

If he had loved her, he would’ve said something to her on their last night together. He would’ve known by then, wouldn’t he? But it wasn’t in Luke to lie to get what he wanted. He was too honest. Too good a man to do that. And sadly, Audrey had to face the reality that her child wouldn’t have an ideal life. He wouldn’t live in a home where his parents loved each other and harmony abounded. More than likely, their child would be shuffled back and forth between two homes.

“You should go back. Luke deserves better than this,” her brother said. “You both do.”

“You’re saying that now? You wanted to knock Luke on his ass the last I heard.”

“He has been knocked on his ass. And you leaving when you did was like kicking him when he was down.”

Her heart squeezed tight and she whispered, “That’s a low blow, Casey.”

“It’s the truth, honey.”

Audrey paused for a second. Had she made a mistake in leaving the ranch so abruptly? Casey sure thought so. She glanced at the languid cat sleeping on the bed. Jewel thought so, too. She was depressed. “The truth is, he’s glad to get rid of me. I caused him nothing but trouble.”

Casey cursed under his breath. “You’re being stubborn.”

“I take after you.”

“Think about what I’m telling you. Go back to Sunset Ranch.”

Audrey couldn’t face Luke. Her guilt was a tangible thing that dragged her down and made her ache inside. She couldn’t bear to see him hurt, bandaged up and immobile, knowing she was the cause of his agony. If that made her a coward, so be it. In her heart she knew she was saving Luke in her own way. With her gone, he could recover with no reminders of Casey’s troublemaking little sister.

“Casey, I…can’t. I just can’t.”

* * *

Luke was determined to get out of bed and have dinner tonight in the dining room. Logan and Sophia were coming and Ellie had prepared his favorite meal. Not that he had much of an appetite lately, but after five days in the hospital and three days in his own bed, it was time to get a move on. Since he’d come home, he’d refused to take pain meds other than simple ibuprofen for his lingering aches and pains. Every day he saw improvement in his mobility.

At least nothing was broken this time. His breathing was normal and his head no longer ached. As for his pride—now, that had suffered the greatest injury.

Not only had Audrey run out on him that night in the cabin, but she’d deceived him and disobeyed his instructions about Trib. Then the woman up and ran out on him again. Emptiness stole through his body and it befuddled him why anger wasn’t the strongest emotion he felt.

Luke sat on the bed and took his time putting his legs into his jeans, one foot then the other. He moved slowly, testing his muscles as he bent to pull up his pants.

Okay. That wasn’t so bad.

He zipped his jeans and then carefully slid his arms into a light-gray-and-black-plaid shirt. The snaps were easy. Then he frowned when he glanced at his boots. Pulling them on would be a chore, so he opted to go downstairs barefoot.

He walked down the hallway to where a batch of bright sunflowers wrapped in raffia sat in a vase on the foyer table. The card read, “I’m so sorry. Love, Audrey.”

She’d sent them to him the day after he’d been hospitalized. He thought they’d die long before this and he wouldn’t have the reminder every day of how badly things had spiraled out of control between them. But they’d survived and looked as if they had no intention of wilting anytime soon.

Luke felt much the same way.

“There he is,” Logan said, glancing up once Luke walked into the dining room.

He and Sophia walked over to him. Sophia gave him a kiss on the cheek. Logan patted his back once as if he was afraid of injuring him.

“Sorry if I’m late,” he said.

“Right on time,” Logan said.

“You’re looking good, Luke.” Sophia smiled.

At least Luke didn’t feel like a pile of crap anymore, so progress was being made.

“Ellie’s in the kitchen fixing all your favorites.”

Luke raised his brows. “Smells delicious. Pot roast with all the fixin’s?”

His brother nodded. “That’s right.” The two took their seats at the table while Luke leaned against the wall and glanced out a tall window that overlooked Sunset Ranch. “It feels good to be up and dressed and walking on my own power.”

“It’s great to see you that way, bro.”

Luke stared out the window for a few more seconds then gingerly took a seat. “You have that talk with Ward?” he asked Logan. Ward had felt guilty about Luke’s injury, thinking it was his fault for abandoning his duties and leaving early that day. Two days ago, he’d offered Luke his resignation.

“Yep, we talked. Between you and me, I think we got him convinced he wasn’t at fault. Can’t imagine a day when I’d accept his resignation, and I told him so. I’m still waiting on your decision about Trib. I can unload him for a song, anytime you say.”

Luke pursed his lips and contemplated. He didn’t know if he wanted to unload the stallion right now. He was trouble, but the stallion had come a long way. And there was something about that horse that clung on and wouldn’t let go.

“He’s a menace,” Logan said firmly.

“I can’t argue with that. But Audrey’s work with him did pay off.” He hated to admit that, but it was true. And that day, as much as he’d wanted Audrey out of that corral and away from that horse, he’d been impressed to see the horse respond to her. To see how far Trib had come in the short time she’d been working with him. For all the trouble the horse caused him, he shouldn’t blink an eye in getting rid of him. Yet he couldn’t quite do it.

“Are you thinking about keeping him?” Sophia asked.

Logan gave him a dubious look. “That damn animal put you in the hospital twice.”

Luke nodded. “I know. I know. But I’ve got more important things on my mind right now. Are you forgetting I’ve got a baby on the way?”

Sophia’s voice was sympathetic. “Have you spoken with Audrey?”

Luke didn’t know if he wanted to delve too far into the subject. Audrey had been on his mind a lot lately. “No, just Casey. He tells me she’s doing fine.”

Sophia sipped from a glass of sparkling water. “You know, when we were at the hospital waiting for you to wake up from your concussion, you kept calling out her name.”

“Did I?”

Luke remembered waking up in a daze and how the first words out of his mouth were for Audrey. He’d asked the doctor if she was injured. He remembered the relief he felt to find out she wasn’t harmed. Funny thing, at the time and with his mind so foggy from being knocked unconscious, he hadn’t remembered about the baby. All of his concern had been for Audrey.

Logan and Sophia peered at each other and then nodded at him. “You must’ve asked for her a dozen times,” Logan informed him.

“Once Audrey found out you were going to make a full recovery, she excused herself and walked out of the hospital,” Sophia said quietly. “She was beside herself, Luke. I’ve never seen someone cry so hard. She feels responsible and so terrible about this. She really cares for you.”

Luke took a sip of water and swallowed hard. He couldn’t figure out why he wasn’t angrier with her. She’d gone against his wishes deliberately and endangered herself. All he wanted now was to see her. To make sure she was all right. But she’d taken off again.

“An injured man doesn’t have a woman’s name on his lips for no reason,” Logan said.

His brother had a point.

“Here you go, Luke,” Ellie said, coming in with a large platter of pot roast, carrots and potatoes. The savory scent whetted his waning appetite. “I hope this makes you feel better.” She set the dish down in the center of the table.

“Looks delicious, Ellie. I’ll do my best at putting this away.”

The elderly woman gave him an affectionate pat on the shoulder. “You just eat what you can. Build your strength. The biscuits and gravy are coming.”

“I’ll get them,” Logan said. “Luke, you go on and dig in.”

Logan got up to help Ellie, and Luke filled his plate. It pleased Ellie to see him take that much food, and she walked out of the room with a satisfied expression on her face.

Luke forced smiles and conversed with his family during the meal, grateful to them for being here, for worrying over him. Yet he was struck with a bitter sense of loss. Now that he was beginning to recover, he realized something was terribly wrong. And he knew exactly what that was.

That night, Luke sat up in his bed, picked up his iPhone and sent a text message to the one person who could make him feel better.

How r u?

Audrey’s reply came immediately.

I’m fine. How r u?

Doing ok. How’s the baby?

Healthy. I have a little bump now.

Luke choked up. He wished to heaven he could see her swell with his child.

What r u doing?

Getting ready for bed.

Luke smiled and a wave of warmth roared through his body.

What r u wearing?

The question was audacious and he knew he was playing with fire

Luke? Is your head right? R u feeling okay?

Answer my question and I’ll feel a whole lot better.

Anything to make you feel better. Just my old T-shirt.

The one that says, Cowgirls Do it With Their Boots On?

Yes.

R u wearing boots now?

Of course not. I’m going to bed. Luke, I’m so, so sorry.

Apology accepted.

So, u r not mad at me?

He wouldn’t lie.

Pissed beyond belief.

There was a long pause.

What can I do? I feel awful about it.

Put your boots on. The tan ones that ride up to your knees.

Why?

R u really asking why?

Another long pause.

Ok, they’re on. Now what?

He missed her like crazy. She loved him and he’d thrown that love back in her face.

Now, I’m gonna imagine u on my bed, curled up next to me, boots and all. Sleep tight, sweetheart.

Luke clicked off his phone.

He lay back against his pillow and shut off the light. Closing his eyes, he imagined Audrey beside him on the bed, beside him on the ranch, beside him as they raised their children together. He imagined Audrey Faith Thomas in his life forever.

Something had always been wrong in his past relationships with women. He’d never let himself get too close. He’d never allowed himself to create a bond. The pieces of the puzzle never quite fit right.

Now he knew what was missing.

Her.

Audrey had been missing in his life.

He loved her.

The emotion knocked him upside the head and spiraled down his body, touching every ounce of his being, absorbing into his bones. He’d always had affection for Audrey, but the intense sense of loss and emptiness without her was keen and sharp. That part surprised him most. What he felt for her was real. It wasn’t anything he wanted to run from. With or without a baby, he wanted a future with Audrey. Up until now, true love had been absent in his life and now he welcomed it with an open heart.

The best healing happened during the wee hours of the night when the body and soul were at rest. Luke knew that for fact now. He slept his best sleep ever, finally at peace with his emotions.

And along with the healing, came great clarity.

* * *

“Jewel, please get off Susanna’s couch,” Audrey said, staring her feline down. Jewel felt entitled and refused to budge off the arm of the outdated flower-print sofa. She lay there with a blank look on her face, but Audrey knew the real reason for Jewel’s disobedience.

“It’s okay, Audrey,” Susanna said. “She won’t do it any harm. It’s hanging on by a thread. I’m almost ashamed to have you sitting on it.”

“Don’t be silly. The couch has at least another good year left in it.”

“Bite your tongue.”

Audrey smiled. “I have fond memories of sitting around this room with your family, Suse. The couch is part of that.” Whenever there was an important event at school, or a test Audrey couldn’t miss, the Harts would invite her to stay overnight. Sometimes she’d stayed for an entire weekend while Casey was gone. “Jewel’s separation anxiety came back when we returned home. She won’t leave my side now. I think she’s punishing me for taking her away from Sunset Ranch. She loved it there.”

“I think you did, too,” Susanna said.

“I did, Suse, but I couldn’t stay. Now with the baby coming and all, I’m going to have to make some tough decisions. I have to postpone veterinarian school for another year. Dr. Arroyo offered me a full-time job in the vet clinic. It means long hours, but doing something I love to do.”

“And your hunky Luke’s okay with the whole situation?”

Audrey wished he was her hunky Luke. Unshielded guilt consumed her. She’d been nothing but trouble for Lucas Slade. Still, she looked forward to the nightly text messages she’d been getting from him lately. They made her whole day worthwhile. She found herself anxiously awaiting the evening hours to hear from him. But it was Luke being Luke. Checking up on her. Making sure the baby was okay. She was certain any day now he’d bring up the subject of custody. How would they work out the details?

“It’s early yet. I’m only nine weeks along. I think we’re just getting used to the idea of becoming parents so we haven’t discussed it yet. But…but I’m sure we will. Luke wants to be a big part of the baby’s life.”

Just not a part of hers.

He offered to marry you and you turned him down.

“I hope you have a good time at Casey’s tomorrow,” Susanna said. “I’m glad you decided to visit him. Maybe being at the lake will help clear your mind.”

She hoped a trip to the cabin would help her get a handle on her chaotic emotions. There were too many variables in her life now—joy about the baby but heartache over Luke. She had indecision about the job offer and worried about what her future would hold. All of it made her queasy with anxiety.

“I hope so, too. So long as Casey doesn’t dwell on my pitiful life, I think I’ll be fine. My brother is convinced he knows what’s best for me.”

Susanna smiled. “Casey misses you. I think you’ll have a good time together.”

“You’re right. Gosh, I’m sorry I’m such a downer lately.”

“Hey, you’ve been there for me, too. That’s what friends are for.”

They said good-night with an embrace and Audrey went home to pack a few things.

In the morning, she made the drive to the north shore of Lake Tahoe with Jewel beside her in the travel carrier. Fall was beginning to show signs in the crispness of the air and the fresh scent of pine. Early sunlight cast the lake in shades of indigo that gleamed off the water and brightened her entire outlook.

Casey came out to greet her and they hugged tight. He was full of questions about the baby, and as they headed inside the cabin, she laughed at some of the silly notions he had in his head about pregnancy. Not that she was an expert, but she was pretty sure that no, the shape of the woman’s belly did not determine the baby’s sex. And yes, it was true that she would probably develop a dark hormone line that would run from the top of her torso to below her navel that would divide her body almost in half. No, she wouldn’t need to drink the two half gallons of milk in his refrigerator to build up her milk supply. “Goodness, Casey. I’m only staying two days. You’ve got enough milk in here for an entire kindergarten class.”

“Well, just making sure you have what you need.”

She kissed his cheek and they spent the entire afternoon being lazy on the deck, stretched out on cushioned chaise longes and watching a few local sunbathers trying to catch the last rays of warmth for the season.

“Pretty soon, snow will top the mountains,” she said.

“Not soon enough for the skiers,” Casey said. “They can’t wait for the cold weather to hit.” He tilted his head and gave her a tentative look. “I’ve got reservations at Emeralds for tonight. We never had a chance to celebrate you having a baby. You up for it?”

Audrey reached over to touch his hand. “That’s sweet, Casey. Yes, I’m up for it.”

“No pets allowed. Think Jewel here will let you go?”

Jewel’s head perked up from her prone position on the patio deck at the mention of her name.

“Knowing Jewel, after she eats she’ll probably pass out in front of the fireplace. She won’t know I’m gone.”

Casey gave her a nod of approval. “Smart cat.”

Audrey chuckled. “Thanks, Casey for…well, for not being so, so…”

“I’m trying, honey. You’ll always be my little sis, and I’ll always watch out for you, but I get that you’re all grown-up now. You don’t need me anymore.”

“I need you, Casey. Just not your interference in my life. I’m ready to make my own decisions,” she said softly.

He swallowed and stared out at the lake.

That evening they had dinner at an exclusive restaurant with a spectacular view of Emerald Bay. The crescent-shaped alcove cradled shallow, pale emerald-green waters. Fanette Island reached out of the center of the bay with a Hershey Kiss–topped peak. The food was delicious and Audrey’s mood lightened being with her brother.

By the time they returned to the cabin, Audrey was beat. “I’m going to bed,” she said to Casey. “Thanks for a wonderful dinner. I’ll see you in the morning.” She reached up on tiptoes and gave Casey a peck on the cheek.

“Good night, Sis.”

Audrey showered and dressed in an old T-shirt. Some people had comfort food, but Audrey had comfort wear. She was cozy in worn-out, old bed clothes that felt soft against her skin. The baby seemed to love it, too. She snuggled into the bed and when the ringtone barked, she picked up her phone and read the text. It was Luke.

How r u?
Fair. How r u?

Fair. But now that I’m talking to you, I’m better.

Audrey squeezed her eyes closed. A viselike grip tightened on her heart. More and more now, Luke would say something sweet like this, or make an innuendo that begged an invitation from her. She didn’t have the courage to act upon it. She couldn’t face another rejection. And then, there was the guilt she harbored that reminded her daily of the injuries she’d caused him.

I’m glad you’re feeling better.

R u in bed?

Yes.

In a T-shirt?

Yes.

Well?

It says Cowgirls Party in the Paddock.

Luke didn’t waste a second to answer.

Sounds like a party I’d want to attend.

Mercy. Audrey nibbled on her lower lip.

I’m not a party girl.

Could’ve fooled me a few months ago.

Are you still pissed?

That you seduced me then ran away? That you lied to me? That you disobeyed my orders with Trib?

Her hopes faded.

I guess I have my answer.

I’m mellowing.

Doesn’t sound like it.

Do you still love me?

Audrey couldn’t believe he was asking her that. A person didn’t fall out of love that easily. It just showed how little Luke knew about love. And about her. She’d loved him for ten years. She couldn’t just forget about that because things didn’t work out. Life was messy and she’d certainly stepped in it this time. If anything, her love for him had grown stronger after he’d saved her and the baby.

It doesn’t matter.

You don’t love me.
I take that as a yes. There’s going to be a knock at your door any second.

What? Panicked, she glanced at the bedroom door before she remembered she was at the cabin. She typed,

I’m not home.

I know.

Then the door opened and Luke strode in, cell phone in hand.

She jumped and hit her head against the backboard of the bed. “Luke!”

He tucked the phone into his pocket. “I gave you warning.”

“You…you didn’t knock.”

“Didn’t I?” He grinned and moved farther into the room. “Seems to me you didn’t knock a few months back when you crept in here and destroyed my sleep.”

“Wh-what are you doing here?”

This whole thing reeked of Casey not interfering. Her brother must’ve set this up.

But oh, how she’d missed Luke. His devastating smile and the light in his eyes were enough to floor any female, much less one who was already crazy about him. She tossed the covers off and was about to get out of bed when Luke’s piercing gaze froze her in place. He sat down next to her. The scent of leather and musk put her mind in a tizzy.

Jewel woke from solid sleep, got up and rubbed at the back of his legs. He bent to scratch her behind the ears and she purred so loudly, it echoed off the walls. Traitorous cat. “Did Casey put you up to this? I’m going to—”

“I did some fast talking with Case to get him to allow me to come here. This was all my idea.” He glanced around the room and then his reverent gaze touched on her. “This room is where our baby was conceived.”

“I…I know.”

Her mind was muddled. It was late. She was tired. She couldn’t think straight with him sitting on her bed, so near. If he wanted to talk custody in legal terms, she couldn’t do it. “I can’t think right now, Luke. Can we talk another time? Maybe, if you came back in the morning.”

He gave his head a shake. “You’re a flight risk, Audrey. I’m not giving you a chance to take off again. Seems that’s what you do to me. Leave.”

“That’s only because—”

“I love you, Audrey.”

“Wh-what?”

“I said, I love you. I need you in my life. I’m not leaving here until I convince you of that.”

The words were foreign to her ears. Luke didn’t love her. How could he? She’d done horrible things to him. She’d nearly caused his death, for heaven’s sake. “You love the baby.”

“True. I love the baby. It’s a part of you, sweetheart. That baby is the best part of both of us. If I didn’t love you, why on earth would I forgive you for everything you’ve done? Why would I call out your name when I was unconscious? Yes, I did that, they tell me. And as soon as I woke up, your name was the first on my lips. I called for you, Audrey. And you weren’t there. It was an awful feeling. It hurt more than my injuries.”

“Oh, Luke. I’m so sorry about that. I hated to leave you, but I thought I’d be the last person you’d want to see when you woke up.”

“You left Sunset Ranch without saying goodbye.”

Her guilt was as sharp as the tip of a knife.

Luke reached for her hands. He applied gentle pressure that shot straight to her heart and made her hope for the first time in a long time. Then he looked her square in the eyes. “I’ve never lied to you, Audrey. I think you know that about me. I asked you to marry me, but I didn’t tell you I loved you. I didn’t know it then, but I know it now.”

Audrey’s hope register shot up. “Wh-why do you know it now?”

Luke looked past her, as if trying to find a way to explain it. “I thought I wasn’t capable of love or allowing myself to get close to anyone for anything other than friendship. It has to do with my roots and my love of a horse that was taken away when I was very young. It didn’t help to see the kind of marriage my folks had. I guess I put up barriers and wouldn’t let anyone breach them. Until Trib came along.”

“Trib? I don’t understand.”

“For some reason that horse got under my skin. Even after all the trials and tribulations and the trouble he caused, I can’t seem to part with him. I see his spirit and know he’ll be mine one day. I don’t ever intend on letting him go. Now don’t take this the wrong way, but that’s exactly how I feel about you. You and Trib have a lot in common.”

Audrey’s brows knitted together as she tried to make sense of it.

Luke continued, “I never let myself get close to any of the animals on the ranch after that one devastating incident when I was a boy. It scarred me for life. So I steered clear and when I felt like I was feeling more than I should, I would back off and detach myself for fear of being hurt. Just recently, I realized I did that very same thing with women. Until you came back into my life. That’s how I know I love you. After all the deception and lies you told, Audrey, I couldn’t dismiss you. I wouldn’t even consider firing you.”

“You did fire me.”

“That was bogus. I was desperate to get you away from Trib. I was falling in love with you and didn’t realize it.”

Audrey’s heart was ready to burst. Still, she droned, “Because I reminded you of a horse?”

His eyes grew serious, as if this next question meant a great deal. “But you get it, right?”

His honest plea had her convinced. She nodded. “I think so.”

He continued, “I told myself I had a physical attraction to you and I’d get over it. But I didn’t get over it. I couldn’t write you off like I had all the others. Because as much trouble as you’ve caused me, I didn’t give up on you. I didn’t back off. Then when I learned you were pregnant, I wanted to marry you because it was the right thing to do. And you were right to refuse me. I see that now. When I lay hurt in that hospital bed, I began to see my future without you. And it was a killer. I never want to feel that way again. I don’t want to live my life without you, Audrey. To me, you’re perfect just the way you are.”

“Oh, Luke.” Tears welled in her eyes.

He smiled and kissed her fingertips. “You’re amazing and talented and smart. You’re pretty and sexy and you make me laugh. This isn’t about the baby, Audrey. I swear, I really do love you.”

Audrey’s hope soared. Luke never lied. He would stretch the truth at times to keep his dashing knight status, but he never flat-out lied. “I love you, too.”

Luke grinned. “Thank God. I was worried.”

He was worrying about her love for him? Not a chance in hell that would ever change. But she did have one tidbit that she needed to come clean about. She held her breath, vowing to strive to be Miss Goody Two-shoes, if only he could forgive her this one last thing. “I, uh, I do have to fill you in on something that might make you angry.”

Luke squinted as if he was afraid to hear what she had to say. “Lay it on me.”

“It’s not really a lie, exactly, just an omission of truth. When you were being so bullheaded about Trib, I sort of went behind your back to work with him late at night. After you went to bed.”

Luke ground his teeth together and she could tell how hard he was trying to keep his cool, but the vein popping out of his neck was a dead giveaway. “So you’re saying after I fell asleep, you’d head out to the barn in secret?”

“Yes, with Jewel. Trib took a shine to the cat and it helped me make a breakthrough.”

He was silent for thirty seconds.

“Are you angry?” she finally squeaked.

“That depends on whether you’ll marry me or not?”

“That’s a heck of a proposal, Luke.”

“Don’t push it, sweetheart. I’m envisioning all the things that could’ve happened to you out there. And it’s not sending endorphins racing through my body.”

Shoot, she hoped she hadn’t just ruined the moment.

She thought back to the time when she was sixteen and Luke had come to her rescue with those two boys. He’d made her a deal and asked one thing of her. Audrey would honor that vow now. She put her heart on the line and gave him her answer. “I promise you, Lucas Slade, I won’t do anything reckless or dangerous after we’re married.”

“So you’ll marry me?” A smile spread across his face, and he seemed to forget about her confession.

Audrey couldn’t hide her relief. Her words rushed out, “Yes, of course I’ll marry you, Luke.” She looped her arms around his neck. “I love you with all of my heart. Our baby thinks he’s getting a pretty good dad, too.”

Luke put his hand over her belly and felt the little bump developing. The blue in his eyes deepened with love. “We’re going to be a great family.”

“I think so, too,” Audrey said. Her dreams, her fantasies were all coming true. She was over-the-moon happy.

Luke brought his lips to hers and took her in a lingering kiss that knocked out any iota of doubt she had about his love for her.

“I missed you,” he said, drawing her up tight, his gaze scorching right through her T-shirt. “I want to party with my cowgirl.”

“Oh, I want that, too, but Casey—”

“Is gone. I told him he’d better get out of Dodge if he wanted me to make a legitimate woman out of you.”

Audrey’s laugh came out throaty and pure, her heart filled with joy.

Luke laid her down on the bed and spread his body next to hers. She shuddered in anticipation.

“I owe you a seduction,” he rasped. “Payback is usually a bitch, but this time, I’m going to make sure it takes us straight to heaven. Hang on to the bedpost, sweetheart. We’re going for a long, sweet ride.”

Audrey closed her eyes.

She hung on.

She loved Lucas Slade inside and out.

And her knight in shining armor, Mr. Nice Guy and Good Samaritan all rolled up into one, gave her a night she would remember for all their sunsets to come.

* * * * *