Книга - Travis Comes Home

Travis Comes Home
Patricia Thayer


When Travis Randell first spied the raven-haired pregnant beauty on his family's land, he was hell-bent on having her arrested for trespassing! Seeking refuge at the Circle B Ranch after his greedy partner–and former fiancée!–ruined him, Travis was in no mood to welcome strangers.But Josie Gutierrez was no stranger. Josie was the photographer for the new guest ranch brochure. And it wasn't Josie's camera that distracted Travis…it was her deep hazel eyes and intoxicating smile. Travis found himself drawn to her and her unborn child. But would Travis still believe in this picture-perfect love when he learned the real reason Josie came to the Circle B?









“Where’s your sense of adventure?” Travis asked, as his mouth returned to Josie’s for another heart-stopping kiss.


She didn’t want to think beyond how wonderful he made her feel. But common sense won out, and she called a halt to the craziness. “Whoa, cowboy, I think things are getting out of hand.”

Travis smiled. “And this is a bad thing?”

“Yes. We’ve both been hurt by past relationships.”

“So, what’s wrong with…being friendly?”

She gave him an incredulous look.

“Don’t you see,” Travis continued, “you and I have no secrets.”

Josie tried not to look guilty, knowing Travis had a knack for reading her. How would he react if he discovered her secret? She didn’t want to know. She wasn’t foolish enough to think anything serious could happen between them. A few laughs and some kisses shared with a good-looking man. As long as she remembered that, one day…soon, she would have to pack up and walk away.

Problem was, could she handle that?


Dear Reader,

I hope the long hot summer puts you in the mood for romance— Silhouette Romance, that is! Because we’ve got a month chock-full of exciting stories. And be sure to check out just how Silhouette can make you a star!

Elizabeth Harbison returns with her CINDERELLA BRIDES miniseries. In His Secret Heir, an English earl discovers the American student he’d once known had left with more than his heart…. And Teresa Southwick’s Crazy for Lovin’ You begins a new series set in DESTINY, TEXAS. Filled with emotion, romance and a touch of intrigue, these stories are sure to captivate you!

Cara Colter’s THE WEDDING LEGACY begins with Husband by Inheritance. An heiress gains a new home—complete with the perfect husband. Only, he doesn’t know it yet! And Patricia Thayer’s THE TEXAS BROTHERHOOD comes to a triumphant conclusion when Travis Comes Home.

Lively, high-spirited Julianna Morris shows a woman’s determination to become a mother with Tick Tock Goes the Baby Clock and Roxann Delaney gives us A Saddle Made for Two.

We’ve also got a special treat in store for you! Next month, look for Marie Ferrarella’s The Inheritance, a spin-off from the MAITLAND MATERNITY series. This title is specially packaged with the introduction to the new Harlequin continuity series, TRUEBLOOD, TEXAS. But The Inheritance then leads back into Silhouette Romance, so be sure to catch the opening act.

Happy Reading!






Mary-Theresa Hussey

Senior Editor




Travis Comes Home

Patricia Thayer







www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)


To Hence Barrow,

A special man who taught a California girl about ranching

and the love of Texas. I’ll always treasure our visits,

the great stories, but mostly your friendship.

You were my inspiration for this series. Can’t wait

for your 100th birthday party. Save me a dance. Love, Pat




PATRICIA THAYER


has been writing for the past sixteen years and has published fifteen books with Silhouette. Her books have been nominated for the National Readers’ Choice Award, Virginia Romance Writers of America’s Holt Medallion and a prestigious RITA Award. In 1997, Nothing Short of a Miracle won the Romantic Times Magazine Reviewers’ Choice Award for Best Special Edition.

Thanks to the understanding men in her life—her husband of thirty years, Steve, and her three sons (along with her new daughter-in-law)—Pat has been able to fulfill her dream of writing romance. Another dream is to own a cabin in Colorado, where she can spend her days writing and her evenings with her favorite hero, Steve. She loves to hear from readers. You can write to her at P.O. Box 6251, Anaheim, CA 92816-0251.




Contents


Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Epilogue




Chapter One


Travis Randell reined in his horse as they approached the rise. He drew a long breath to help slow his breathing from the hard ride and looked out at the incredible lush green view of Mustang Valley.

A rich blue sky topped the line of long grass waving in the warm breeze. Shrubs and huge oak trees dotted the landscape like soldiers protecting their land. They also sheltered the small herd of mustangs the valley had been named for, and twenty years ago, the three misfit Randell boys who had come to live on the Circle B.

Removing his hat, Travis used his shirtsleeve to wipe the sweat from his forehead. Texas in October. The early morning heat was surprisingly intense, and he’d ridden his mount pretty hard. Not a good idea, but Rocky was just as eager as he was for the race. As a kid, Travis could outride both his older brothers. Chance and Cade had thought he was just plain crazy.

Maybe he was. Maybe that was how he lost everything, or maybe it was because he’d let himself trust. Not an easy trait for a Randell. But he had, and paid the price. All his dreams had gone up in smoke.

Hell, he was going to make his first million before thirty. He’d succeeded all right, but lost it even faster. And no matter how far or how fast he’d ridden, he couldn’t outrun the pain and shame that plagued him. Once again the family name had been tarnished, and he’d caused it.

Travis climbed off his horse, and taking the reins, led the roan gelding toward the creek. He crouched down, scooped some water in his cupped hands and drank thirstily. After having his fill, he stood, leaving Rocky at the stream and went to sit under a tree.

Travis had been back at the Circle B for two weeks, and if it hadn’t been for Ella, he’d still be hiding out in his old bedroom. He smiled. Even when he’d been a kid, the Circle B housekeeper would never let him brood. She said it was a waste of time. Early this morning, she’d pushed him out of the house and told him she didn’t want to see him back until dinner.

Sadness coursed through him as he thought about the past month. How had his life fallen apart? All the years of school, work, the planning and sacrifices he’d given up to start his computer security business, Private Access. It was history now. It was gone. All because he’d trusted a woman.

Damn! How could he let himself be taken in? He thought he was too smart. Hell, maybe he would have seen it coming if he’d been thinking with his brain and not his… He shook away the thought of Lisa’s expert seduction. Next time he’d be ready.

God help the woman who tries it again.

The sound of a voice interrupted his thoughts. Travis cocked his head and listened. Someone was singing. A soft, husky woman’s voice floated through the air. He stood. There wasn’t supposed to be anyone around. Certainly not on Circle B land.

Angered by the invasion, he followed the sound toward a group of shrubs about a hundred yards up the creek and stopped suddenly when his gaze locked on the grove of trees. There was a clearing and a campsite under them, a sleeping bag, and a backpack. And the trespasser.

A woman sat on a large rock beside the creek, her back to him as she leisurely brushed her hair. Something stopped him from calling out to her. Instead, he watched the rhythmic actions of the brush running through the long silken strands as the filtered sunlight danced on her beautiful raven hues.

Then Rocky’s whinny broke the spell, and Travis glanced back to see that the horse had followed him. The sound also caught the intruder’s attention. She swung around and stood.

“Who’s there?” she called out.

The woman was tiny. She couldn’t be any more than five-two or three and probably not a hundred pounds. Her green-hazel eyes were large and haunting as she stared back at him in challenge. Her obvious Spanish heritage was only enhanced by the coal-black hair that flowed halfway down her back. Dressed in faded jeans and scuffed boots, she looked like she belonged on a ranch. But not this ranch. He tensed as he glanced down at her sleeping bag and spotted the camera.

Dammit. They’d found him.

Travis stepped out into the clearing. “I think you already know who I am. Now, you’ve got one minute to get the hell off Barrett land.”

Josie Gutierrez opened her mouth to speak, but at the mention of the Barrett name, she suddenly lost her voice. This cowboy with the brooding dark eyes wasn’t about to let her explain. His cowboy hat was cocked back, revealing light-brown hair that fell across his forehead. He was tall with wide shoulders. His large hands were fisted on narrow hips.

Josie knew she’d better do something fast because he wasn’t going to give her much time to explain. And she hadn’t had time to think up a story. Seeing this cowboy’s seething look, she knew no matter what she told him, he wasn’t going to believe her.

“Barrett land?” she said.

“Don’t play innocent with me. You know damn well where you are.”

“I just came here to take some pictures of the valley.”

“You’re lying,” he accused, then walked to her camera, but before he could reach it, Josie grabbed it away, holding it protectively. She’d worked too many fourteen-hour shifts to pay for her camera. No one was going take her prize possession.

“No really, I’m just interested in the scenery and the mustangs. Is there a law against that?” she asked, trying not to back away from him. Don’t show fear, she told herself.

“There’s a law against trespassing.”

“I didn’t think anyone would mind. I was just camping for the night. And I was going to clean up my mess. Sorry if I intruded on your privacy. I’ll leave now.”

He stepped in front of her. “Not until you give me the film in your camera.”

“What?” The man was crazy. “I told you I took pictures of the landscape and the mustangs.”

“Cut the bull, Ms…. Do you have a name?”

“Josie Gutierrez.”

“Ms. Gutierrez. I’m not buying it.” He held out his hand. “I want the film.”

“And I’m not giving it to you. I’m a photographer. I sell my pictures.”

“And you trespassed on private property to get those pictures.”

“Is this your land?” she asked, knowing from her limited research that Hank Barrett owned the Circle B.

“I don’t see that it’s any business of yours.”

She straightened to her full, five-foot-three height. “Well, is it? You could be trespassing, too. How do I know that you aren’t a cattle rustler?”

The man’s jaw tensed. His eyes flared with anger, then turned hard. “Who the hell sent you? What newspaper do I contact when I have you tossed in jail?”

Before Josie could deny anything else two men on horseback came over the rise. One man was about thirty, but her breath caught when she saw the other was in his sixties. Could he be…?

They rode down to the trees. The older man spoke. “Travis, what’s going on?”

Travis faced the rider. “Not sure, Hank. I found her camped here. I was just getting rid of her.”

Josie’s heart began beating wildly. He was Hank Barrett. She couldn’t take her eyes off him as he climbed off his horse. He was tall, with straight broad shoulders. His face was weathered from age and the sun, but it was his eyes that made her stomach tighten. Hank Barrett had hazel eyes…like hers.

He walked toward her and smiled. “Hello, Miss, I’m Hank Barrett.” He tipped his hat. “And this is Travis Randell, and this is his brother, Chance.” Hank removed his gloves and held out his hand.

She gave the three of them a tense smile. “I’m Josie Gutierrez.” She took his hand.

“Sorry Travis hasn’t been very neighborly. I know there are several campgrounds in the area. Is there any particular reason you decided to camp here?”

Travis threw up his arms. “Isn’t it obvious? She’s here to get a picture of me.”

Josie had had enough of the man. “Get over yourself, Mr. Randell, I don’t even know you.” She looked back to see a broad grin on Hank’s face. “I just take pictures of wildlife and scenery, Mr. Barrett.”

“Please, call me Hank.”

Her heart tripped again. “Hank…I heard about Mustang Valley and thought I could get some good shots. I’m trying to make a living as a photographer.”

Chance Randell climbed down from his horse and joined them. “Are you here to work on the guest ranch brochure?”

Josie swallowed and mentally asked for forgiveness for her next lie. “Yes, I want to work on the brochure,” she replied. “I haven’t made a name for myself as a photographer, yet. I mean, I haven’t published anything that you would know about. So I thought that if I took some pictures of the valley you might like my work.”

“It’s a lie, Hank,” Travis insisted. “She’s more than likely from a Houston newspaper.”

“I’ve never been to Houston in my life.” That was the truth.

Hank held up his hands. “Why don’t we go back to the ranch and sort this out over breakfast?”

“She’s just trying to con you, Hank,” Travis said.

Hank looked at Josie. “Josie, would you please come back to the Circle B so we can talk this out?”

There was no turning back now. Josie turned away from Travis’s furious glare. “I’d like that, Hank.”

“Good. Now how did you get down here?”

“I hiked,” she said. “My car is up by the road.”

“You hiked down here?”

She nodded.

He smiled and shook his head. “Travis, you stay and help Josie pack up and see that she gets back to her car, and then to the ranch.”

“But, Hank…”

The older man’s gaze locked with Travis’s. The look they exchanged was brief, but it told a lot about the respect and love that Travis had for Hank—and that the feelings were returned. Josie felt a twinge of envy. Then Hank turned to her and smiled. “I look forward to our breakfast together, Josie.”

Josie nodded and watched as the rancher climbed back on his horse and rode off with Chance. She felt her eyes mist. He was not what she’d expected. But how would she have known what he’d be like?

She’d never met her father before.



Travis was still fuming when he arrived back at the ranch with Josie Gutierrez following behind him in her beat-up red Volkswagen. No matter what, he still didn’t believe her story. Her pretty hazel eyes might have fooled Hank, but not him. She wasn’t even a good liar, and he knew women who were experts. He’d bet his share of the ranch Ms. Gutierrez had a secret agenda. And he was going to find out what it was.

He directed her to park by the back door while he rode Rocky to the corral, then asked one of the hands to take care of the horse. He headed toward the house where Ms. Gutierrez waited on the small back porch. Hank came out just before Travis hit the step and escorted her inside.

Travis walked through the door to the mudroom, then into the kitchen just as Hank was introducing Josie to Ella. The Circle B’s housekeeper had a big grin on her face. Travis didn’t like it.

“Well, well, it sure is nice to meet you Josie. And welcome to the Circle B. I hope you’re going to be staying around awhile.”

Travis took his place at the table. “After the pictures are developed I doubt she’ll be here very long,” he announced.

Hank ignored him and offered their guest a seat next to him. “Our breakfasts here are pretty basic, Josie. I hope you like bacon and eggs.”

“That will be fine. You’re very kind to invite me,” she said.

“Just being neighborly,” he said. “What do you do when you aren’t taking pictures?”

“My mom and I used to run a small diner. I’ve done everything from waitressing to filling in as a short-order cook.”

Hank’s eyes lit up. “Is that so? Do you have any specialties?”

“Well, let’s see.” She looked thoughtful. “Our corned beef hash and biscuits and gravy were pretty popular with the regulars.”

Hearing Hank’s envious groan, Travis had to bite back a grin. For more than twenty years, the Circle B men had been subject to Ella’s limited cooking skills. Instead Ella had perfected her ability at being the best substitute mom for three teenage boys.

They all loved the no-nonsense woman in jeans and a plaid shirt. She wore her gray-streaked hair short, and her kind eyes glowed with love. It didn’t matter if she could cook or not.

The food was set on the table. “Thanks, Ella,” Travis said.

“Thank you,” she answered with a smile. “I guess I should have thrown you out sooner. You always did bring back the most interesting things.”

Before Travis could explain, the housekeeper moved on.

Hank started the conversation. “Josie, where you from?”

“El Paso.”

Hank nodded, then got a faraway look. “I used to travel there years ago…cattle business. So you came to San Angelo to look for a job?”

Josie had trouble swallowing her food past the lump in her throat. “I don’t think I’ll be going back,” she said. “My mother passed away recently, and she was my only family there.”

“I’m sorry,” Hank said. He set his fork down and reached for her hand; immediately she felt the warmth in his touch. “That’s rough. You have any other family?”

“Not that I’m that close to,” she said, catching his curious look. “I was thinking about starting over somewhere else. I want see if I can make a go of it as a photographer.”

Travis knew he didn’t want Josie hanging around the ranch. Since the news of his business’s crumbling became public, the media had been having a field day over his misery. He’d already been humiliated enough when the police had questioned him over the security leak traced to Private Access. He also recalled how the Houston papers had used him as their whipping boy. So he wouldn’t put it past them to have sent someone here to the ranch. Hadn’t he been humiliated enough? Did they have to continue to hound him, too?

No, he didn’t trust anyone with a camera. And definitely not a woman. He knew firsthand how devious women could be. They worked their way into your confidence, only to use you to get what they wanted.

He looked across the table at the beautiful Ms. Gutierrez. Something told him she was harboring her own secrets. And he was going to make sure he found out what they were before anyone got hurt.



Two hours later, Josie knew she should leave, but Ella seemed eager to get her corned beef hash recipe. She also knew that the housekeeper was playing matchmaker. Travis’s name had been mentioned more times than she could keep count. Somehow the woman missed seeing that Travis had loathed Josie on the spot.

Seated at the kitchen table, Josie looked up when another man came through the back door. He had to be a Randell. He looked a lot like both Travis and Chance, but his hair was darker, and he was a little taller than his brothers. He smiled at her as he removed his hat.

“Hi, I’m Cade Randell,” he said.

“I’m Josie Gutierrez.”

“I hear my little brother tried to evict you today.”

She blushed. “I shouldn’t have been in the valley. It’s just that I wanted to see it, and I thought it wouldn’t hurt to stay the night. I’m sorry.”

“I’m sure whatever Trav put you through was enough punishment.”

“He was just being protective.”

“He’s being ornery, but that’s another story,” Cade said with a wave. “I hear you want a chance to take the pictures for the guest ranch brochure.”

“Yes, but I haven’t had a lot of experience.”

“My wife, Abby, and I aren’t hung up on experience. We want to catch what Mustang Valley is really about. Do you have any samples of your work?”

Her heart raced with excitement. “I have a few photographs in my car. I’ll go and get them.” She stood and hurried outside. Maybe this could be the break she needed. If not, she definitely had to find a job. She had less than three hundred dollars, her mother’s small insurance check to her name, and in her condition, she would need more than that. She had to find work, fast.

She lifted a small album off the seat and was closing the car door when she came face-to-face with Travis.

“Oh, sorry,” she apologized. “I didn’t see you.”

He glared at her, as if trying to intimidate her. “Just so you know, I’ll be watching you. So you’d better be careful. You could take potshots at me all you wanted in Houston, but I’m not going to let you hurt my family. Do you understand?”

Josie caught the flicker of pain in his dark eyes. She recognized the look. Someone had hurt Travis Randell and hurt him badly.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she said. “I’m not here to hurt anyone, Mr. Randell. I swear.” Just herself, if Hank found out her real reason for being here.

“Make sure you keep that promise, or you’ll answer to me.”

He stepped out of her way and allowed her to pass. Josie drew a long breath as she increased her pace, but suddenly felt light-headed. She grabbed hold of the porch railing, and waited for the queasiness to pass. She swayed and closed her eyes as her legs weakened. Suddenly she felt hands against her back, Travis’s. Then he gripped her by the arm and guided her to a chair on the porch.

“Put your head down,” he ordered. With a gentle nudge, he pushed her head down between her knees.

“Give it a minute and you should be feeling better.” His voice was gentle, soothing.

Josie felt scared. This had never happened to her before. After a few minutes, she raised her head slowly. “I’m okay.”

“Well, at least, your color is back.” His dark gaze locked with hers. “You shouldn’t be running around in this heat, especially if you’re not used to it.”

She was used to the heat. What she hadn’t expected was this man’s kindness. She studied his face and saw his honest concern for a stranger, a side of Travis Randell that surprised her.

But she couldn’t depend on it. If he discovered her real reason for being here, there’s no telling what he’d do. “I’m much better, thank you.” She stood and once again his expression turned hard. Turning away, she walked inside the house.

The cool air hit her as she entered the kitchen where Cade was waiting for her. She handed him the book, then sat down while he went through each page. She found she was nervous at his scrutiny. She didn’t want to get her hopes up about this job. Getting it would mean she’d be able to spend more time here and could see Hank Barrett again. Her stomach fluttered. Was that too much to hope for?

“Josie, these pictures are wonderful.” Cade looked up and smiled. “I’d like to show them to Abby if that’s all right with you? She’ll be coming by soon.”

“Of course,” Josie said, then drew a needed breath. “If you like I could develop the pictures I took in the valley this morning and get back to you.”

Just then Hank walked into the room with a tall woman with auburn hair. Smiling, she leaned down and kissed Cade. “Did I hear my name mentioned?” she said.

“Abby.” Cade stood and drew her into an embrace. “I want you to meet Josie Gutierrez. She’s a photographer who wants to apply for the job of creating our brochures.”

Abby smiled and extended her hand. “Nice to meet you, Josie.”

Josie shook it. “Nice to meet you, too.”

“I hear your peaceful morning was interrupted by my brother-in-law,” Abby said.

Josie felt her cheeks redden. Had the whole area heard about the confrontation between her and Travis? “I’m guilty. Sorry, I should have asked permission first.”

Hank stepped forward. “And I probably would have given it to you, especially if you turned that pretty smile of yours on me.”

They all laughed. Josie couldn’t believe how nice they were being to her. Well, not exactly everyone. “Let me drive into town and have the film I took this morning developed. I can bring the pictures back this afternoon.”

“Sounds like a plan,” Cade said. “We’ll be here all day.”

Just then Ella came in. “Then plan on stayin’ for supper, Josie. I always have plenty.”

“Only if you let me help prepare it,” Josie countered.

“You got yourself a deal,” Hank said with an eager smile.

Josie said her goodbyes and left. She was heading for her car when she heard Travis’s voice.

“Leaving so soon, Ms. Gutierrez?”

She stopped but told herself she wasn’t going to let him goad her. “Yes, I’m driving into town.”

“Do you need any directions? Wouldn’t want you to get lost again and end up on private property. A person could get shot.”

Josie had had enough. Travis Randell didn’t trust her. She had a feeling it wasn’t just her, but her entire gender. And if he found out the real reason she was here, he’d get rid of her for sure.

“I’m never going to convince you that I mean you no harm. But I need this job.” She saw the stony gaze on his face and knew she wasn’t getting anywhere. “So, expect me back.”

Before she could climb in the car, he grabbed her arm. “Don’t threaten me, lady. I’m about at the end of my rope with your kind. You see, I know firsthand what an aggressive woman can do when she wants something. I lost nearly everything I’ve worked for because I trusted one. It won’t happen again. The only thing I have left is my family, and by God, you better not hurt them. Do you understand?”

“Yes,” she said and jerked away. Trembling, she managed to put on her seat belt, and start the car. After shifting into first gear, she started down the road to the highway. Tears welled in her eyes, but she refused to let them fall. Not over a guy like Travis Randell. He wasn’t worth it. But darn it, he had everything she had always wanted. A family.

Josie shifted into second gear, picking up speed as she glanced in her rearview mirror. He was still watching her. Why wouldn’t the man just go away? She looked back at the road but not in time to find a cow blocking her way. She hit the brakes but knew it was futile. She couldn’t stop in time. When she jerked the wheel to avoid the collision, her car veered off the road onto the dry grass. A scream escaped her as the car bumped over the rough terrain toward the huge tree. Oh, God, she was going to crash. All her thoughts turned to her baby as the impact threw her forward into the windshield and pain coursed through her body. Then everything went black.

Travis raced for the truck the second he saw Josie’s car heading for the Hereford. His heart was pounding wildly as he hurled down the road praying he could help her, but he’d seen her car go into the tree and knew she couldn’t walk away. At the scene, he jumped out of the truck and raced to the wrecked car and yanked open the door. His pulse went into over-drive when he saw Josie’s limp body against the steering wheel.

He gently nudged her. “Josie. Josie, come on, darlin’ wake up.”

He got a moan for his efforts.

Carefully he pulled her back against the seat. He brushed wayward strands of hair from her pale face. “Come on, Josie, wake up.” He stroked her soft cheek. She moaned again, then finally her eyelids fluttered as she clutched her stomach. “My baby. Please, don’t let anything happen to my baby.”




Chapter Two


Josie’s head hurt but not as badly as her ankle. She opened her eyes. The sudden light caused her to blink, but she ignored the brightness and glanced around the stark-white room. Where was she? she wondered.

Oh, God, what happened? Her thoughts flashed back to Travis’s soothing words promising her that she was going to be okay as he had lifted her out of the car. Then in the truck, the sound of his voice drifting in and out as he drove down the road.

Josie tried to sit up, but the pain in her head intensified and she groaned.

Suddenly Travis Randell appeared beside her. “Take it easy there,” he said as he helped her lie back down.

“Where am I?”

“A small hospital just outside San Angelo.”

A hospital. She didn’t have any money for a hospital. “I can’t stay here.”

He leaned over the bed, so close she could see the golden flecks in his eyes. “You haven’t any choice, Josie. You could be seriously injured.”

Panic raced through her as her hand moved to her flat stomach. “Oh, no.”

His gaze was understanding, but he said nothing. Did he know? “Is there anyone you want me to call?”

“No, there isn’t.” Sadness filled her. Since her mother’s death all her family was gone, except for Hank…and the baby.

“What about your baby’s father?”

Heat flooded her face as she glanced away. “What are you talking about?”

“The baby you’re carrying,” he said. “It was your only concern when I reached you after the accident. How far along are you?”

“What are you, a doctor?”

Once again Travis found himself frustrated by the woman. Her stubbornness would drive anyone crazy. But he couldn’t help but wonder what kind of man she loved. What kind of man would let her run off with his child? “I should let the father know where you are.”

“No!”

Travis felt his frustration build. “He has a right, Josie.”

“No, he doesn’t. He gave up any rights when he told me to get rid of it and then left me.”

Before Travis could say anything, the doctor walked into the room. “So our patient finally decided to wake up. How are you feeling, Ms. Gutierrez?”

“I hurt,” she said. “My head and leg.”

“Well, it seems you have a slight concussion, and your ankle took the brunt of the accident. You have some deep lacerations, but the X rays showed it’s just a bad sprain. Overall you’re a lucky lady.”

“X rays!” Alarm race through her. “But I’m pregnant.”

He smiled. “The baby is fine. We took all the precautions to protect the fetus.”

Josie relaxed against the pillow as the doctor continued to write on her chart. “But Ms. Gutierrez your blood tests show that you are slightly anemic. Prenatal vitamins and proper diet should handle that.”

“Then I can leave?” she asked hopefully.

“Well, we’d like to keep you overnight for observation.”

“But I can’t stay,” she said anxiously. “I don’t have the money to pay for all this.”

“Don’t worry about that,” Travis stated. “The ranch insurance will handle the cost. Besides, it was our fault that the gate was open and the cow got out”

“But I don’t want to stay in the hospital,” she insisted.

The doctor frowned. “Is there someone who’ll take care of you?”

Before she could say anything, Travis spoke up. “She’ll be staying at the Circle B. There are three of us who can make sure she and the baby are cared for.”

Travis could see by the look on Josie’s face that she wanted to turn down his offer, but she wouldn’t for the baby’s sake. For once, he had the upper hand with this woman, but he knew that wouldn’t last long.



Three hours later, Josie was settled in the big bed in the ivory-colored guest room. She felt strange about staying at the Circle B. The last thing she wanted to do was intrude in Hank Barrett’s life. She’d only planned to come and see the man that her mother had loved all these years. Josie’s father.

But her mother, Elissa Romero, had never told Hank about the child she carried twenty-five years ago. Instead, she had married Raul Gutierrez to give her daughter a father. It hadn’t been a happy union. Although when Raul had wanted to marry the pregnant Elissa, and promised that his love would carry over to her baby, it hadn’t. He couldn’t handle a child of mixed blood with hazel eyes. A constant reminder that his wife had loved someone else. Raul had never been physically abusive, but his cutting words had hurt Josie and her mother.

Maybe that was the reason Elissa Gutierrez had given up so easily when she had been diagnosed with cancer. Even all Josie’s prayers had failed to instill in Elissa the will to live. She was too weak to fight the fatal disease, and Josie lost her. But there had been one thing she had given her daughter before her death. She had revealed the name of her father.

The soft-spoken, widowed rancher from San Angelo, Hank Barrett.

Tears formed in Josie’s eyes. She had wanted to hate her mother for so much, for keeping her father from her…and for dying. All her life, people had abandoned her. First her father and now even her baby’s father.

Frank Hobbs had worked on a ranch outside El Paso. He’d come into the diner one night. Josie had been working double shifts during her mother’s illness. It wasn’t long before his good looks and charm worked on Josie, and they began to date. But Josie’s first concern was her mother and a career in photography. Frank only wanted her in his bed. The night of her mother’s death, Josie had turned to Frank, and they ended up making love. And making a baby.

“I’m just like my mother,” she breathed as she wiped the tears off her face. “No, I’m worse.” She hadn’t even loved the man she had given herself to so easily. And Frank was grateful that she didn’t want to marry him. There was one thing Josie was sure of, she wanted this baby. She already loved her or him. The baby had been the reason she’d come to San Angelo. She needed to see her biological father, to form some connection between him and the child. But by the looks of things, with Chance, Cade and Travis, Hank Barrett had all the family he needed.

A knock sounded on the door, and Travis walked into the room, carrying a tray. “Hi,” he said.

“Hi,” she answered. A warmth traveled through her body as she watched the good-looking man come toward her. He had showered and changed into a pair of new jeans and a starched blue shirt. His sandy-brown hair was damp, falling over his forehead, making his espresso eyes stand out.

“I hope you’re hungry,” he said. “Joy, Chance’s wife, along with Abby and Ella are downstairs cooking up a storm. That’s a good thing because it isn’t safe to leave Ella alone in the kitchen.”

“But isn’t she the cook and housekeeper here at the ranch?”

He actually smiled at her. “It’s a long story. I’ll tell you when you’re feeling better.”

She was having trouble with his sudden kindness. “I will be gone by then.”

Travis set the tray down on the bed and drew a calming breath. Why did this woman have to be so argumentative? He glanced at her wrapped ankle and the bag of ice resting on top of it. She wasn’t going anywhere—not anytime soon. Besides, she didn’t have a drivable car.

His gaze returned to her face. Although still a little pale, Josie Gutierrez was strikingly beautiful. Her long dark hair was braided and hung down her back, while strands of curls had sprung free and circled a heart-shaped face. Large green-gray eyes revealed a lot, sadness and fatigue. As much as he wanted to deny it, he couldn’t help but feel a kinship with her. She looked as lonely as he felt. And although it would be wiser to send her away, he couldn’t.

Not when he’d been responsible for her accident.

“Let’s wait a few days and see how you feel,” he suggested. “Now, eat. That’s orders from the kitchen.”

She stared at the big bowl of stew, green salad and homemade biscuits. “I can’t possibly eat all this.”

“Just give it a try,” he suggested. “I can guarantee it’s good. Besides, I can’t face the ladies downstairs unless you’ve made a dent in some of that food.”

This woman didn’t give in easily. He watched her finally pick up the spoon and dig into the stew. He held his breath until two large bites disappeared. “Oh, don’t forget your vitamins,” he said as he reached for the bottle on the bedside table. He handed her a pill, then held out a glass of milk.

She took a long drink, then made a face. “I hate milk.”

“Well, you’re going to have to change that, because the baby needs it.”

Josie’s spoon played in the stew. “Does everyone know about the baby?”

He shrugged. “Ella saw the vitamins. If you think they’re going to judge you…”

Her hazel eyes locked with his in a fiery stare. “I’ve been judged all my life,” she said. “I was just concerned about my chances for the brochure job.”

Travis hated to admit he’d been wrong about Josie. She hadn’t been a photographer from a Houston paper. While he’d been waiting at the hospital, he’d looked at her driver’s license, telling himself that he might need to contact family. Josie Gutierrez’s home address was in El Paso.

His mistake made him feel like a heel. He grimaced, remembering the cruel things he’d accused her of. He’d tried to chase her off the ranch out of vengeance. He was damn lucky that she hadn’t been seriously hurt.

“Look, we’ve all been judged at one time or the other.” Hell, he didn’t want to think about how his situation was affecting the family. “If your pictures are good, then Abby and Cade will hire you.”

“If I don’t get that job, I’ll need to find something. What about my car?” she asked.

“Your car is fine,” he lied. “I’ll handle it myself.”

“I have insurance, but the deductible…”

He raised a hand. “I said, I’d handle it.” He headed for the door, then paused. “Now finish that dinner and get some sleep. If you need anything just holler. My room is right next door.” Before she could protest, he walked out. But he knew he hadn’t heard the last from Josie Gutierrez. To his surprise, he was looking forward to the next time.



After dinner, Travis went out to the backyard patio. The evening was still warm as he took a seat at the table to enjoy some peace and quiet—something that had escaped him since he’d been home. But maybe Ms. Gutierrez’s crashing into their lives would draw attention away from him. Ella sure was crazy about having another person to care for. But how long was their house guest going to be around? The doctor wanted to recheck her ankle in five days. She couldn’t leave before then. Not without her car. He’d had it towed to a body shop, praying that the battered vehicle wasn’t going to be totaled. He knew that Josie was traveling with limited funds. She’d hadn’t minced words when she told him she needed a job.

Earlier, he realized that Josie wasn’t as tough as she tried to make people think. He could see the fear in her eyes. She was pregnant. And alone. He shook his head. How could a man not want his own child?

Travis tensed. He knew firsthand not all people were cut out to be parents. His mother, Dana Barnes-Randell, was great, as much as he could remember of her. But not his daddy, that was for sure. Hell, Jack Randell couldn’t stay out of trouble long enough to take care of his boys. The man hadn’t thought twice about what was going to happen to three sons when he got sent to prison. Chance, Cade and Travis had been lucky, though. Hank Barrett had come along and taken them in. For twenty years the widowed rancher had been the only father that they’d known, or claimed.

Travis leaned forward in the chair and rubbed his hand over his face. He hated like hell that his trouble had brought scandal to the Randell name once again. Over the years, he and his brothers had worked hard to erase the stigma attached to it. His father had brought shame to the Randell name and now so had Travis.

Chance had become one of the top quarter horse breeders and trainers in Texas. Cade had gone to Chicago and made his name in the financial world, before coming home to marry his college sweetheart and to claim his son.

And the youngest brother of the family, Travis had gone to college and worked in the computer field. Then a few years ago he’d started his own business. Last year Private Access was on its way to being one of the premiere computer companies in the country. Once Travis had his software patented, there wasn’t going to be any stopping him. He was going to the top. He had even found the woman of his dreams and planned to be married.

Life couldn’t have been any sweeter, until one day a month ago when it all came crashing down. It had been bad enough that his fiancée, Lisa Kyles, had been carrying on with his partner, Byron Neeley. But more was going on. Suddenly his clients were beginning to complain about security leaks. It had taken Travis a few weeks of searching, but he’d finally found the problem. For a price, Byron had allowed a competitor access to highly confidential files. It had to be his partner, because he was the only other person with the ability to break into the system.

By then Travis had to involve the police, and his files were confiscated. Even worse and more humiliating, the press got ahold of the story. Travis had been hounded for weeks. He was ruined, and Byron and Lisa were nowhere to be found. Knowing he couldn’t handle things on his own, he’d turned to his family. But was it such a good idea to drag his problems home?

Hearing voices, Travis looked up to find Hank and his brothers coming to join him.

“That was a great dinner Joy cooked,” Hank stated.

“Beef stew is one of my favorites,” Chance agreed and rubbed his flat stomach. “I think I’ve put on weight since we’ve been married.”

“I wasn’t going to mention it….” Cade teased and Chance playfully punched him in the arm. “Hey, I’m only telling the truth.”

“Like you aren’t as happy as a dog with a bone.”

The two brothers shared a smile.

“Well, as far as I’m concerned,” Hank began, “I’m grateful to Joy and Abby for sweetening your dispositions. You weren’t fit to live with before.”

“Well, the right woman will do that,” Cade said.

Travis glanced away. Both his brothers had gotten married this past summer. Although he was happy that Chance found Joy and Cade found Abby, it was difficult to be around all their wedded bliss.

“You didn’t eat much, Trav,” Chance observed.

“I guess I just wasn’t hungry. But tell Joy I liked her stew.”

Chance smiled. “I’ll be sure to do that. What’s on your mind, bro? Anything we can help with?”

He released a sigh. “Yeah, turn my life back about six months. And make me a whole lot smarter about choosing a business partner…and a woman.”

Cade pulled his chair closer. “I would if I could, but we can’t, Trav. But maybe we can help fix it.”

Travis raised an eyebrow. “How?”

“I know a private investigator who might be able to dig up some answers,” Cade continued.

Travis shook his head. “No, the two people with the answers are long gone. Byron and Lisa are probably out of the country by now, along with a lot of money.”

“Doesn’t hurt to try,” Chance said. “Not if you want to clear your name. Not to mention fight those lawsuits.”

Travis shot out of the chair. This was a nightmare. Private Access had been his life. It had taken off. With his know-how, and Byron’s marketing skills, they were going to take the computer world by storm. Now everything was gone. He could never recover that momentum.

“I have nothing left, Cade,” Travis said. “They took all the assets, ruined my credibility. You can’t run a security business without people’s trust.”

“But it wasn’t you that sold out,” Hank said. “It was Neeley, and he has to be held responsible. Go after him, son. This guy Cade knows is the best. If anyone can find them, Alex Rucker can. He specializes in computer technology fraud.”

Travis hated not being in control. It was just like when he was a kid, and his older brother got him out of messes. Well, he wasn’t a kid anymore. And he did still have a little pride left.

“Look, I appreciate y’all wanting to help. But if it’s all the same to you, I’d like to do it myself.”

Both his brothers nodded as if they understood. “You think I could have this Rucker’s number?”

Chance pulled out his card from his pocket and gave it to Travis. “Had a feeling you’d want to handle it yourself.” He got a smile. “Don’t worry about the cost, this guy works for a percentage of the recovery.”

Travis studied the card. That gave him some encouragement. But he had little hope of getting back what he really wanted, his reputation. “Thanks, I’ll let you know what happens.”

Hank spoke up. “We’re here for you, Travis. Just don’t lose the sense of who you are and what you’ve worked to become. Your name is important. All you boys struggled hard to overcome what your daddy did. I know you don’t take this lightly, Travis, and we’re just glad you’ve come home to let your family help you out. We will stand by you no matter what.”

Travis swallowed the lump in his throat as he looked around the table to see his brothers nod in agreement. God, he’d missed this. “Thank you.”

“You’re doing the right thing, Trav,” Cade said.

He nodded. “Yeah, I know. It’s just that I feel lost. I’ve worked twelve-hour days for so long…and now nothing. I feel so useless.”

“Oh, are you going to be sorry you said that,” Chance said. “We’ve been letting you take it easy these past weeks. We have plenty to keep you busy, especially since we’re trying to open Mustang Valley Guest Ranch by spring.”

“Hey, I’m not a rancher.”

“You used to be,” Cade said. “And believe me, it will all come back to you when you’re in the saddle for a few hours.” When Travis tried to speak, Cade raised his hand. “I think I remember a kid brother who could ride us both into the ground. So don’t give us any sob stories.” Cade grew serious. “Really Trav, we need you. And the Circle B is one-third yours now, and not just the ranching part. If we’re going to be ready for the retreat opening by April, we need someone to computerize the entire operation and design a Web page to help promote business.”

Travis felt his mood lifting. Maybe this could be a new beginning. At least it was a start. His thoughts went to the woman asleep upstairs in the guest room. Someone else needed a start, too. What was Josie going to do if she didn’t get this job? How was she going to take care of her child?

“Before I build a Web page, I’ll need some pictures of the valley. Have you had any other offers to do the brochure?”

By the half-hidden smiles on his brothers’ faces, he knew they weren’t buying his innocent question. Cade spoke up. “Abby likes Josie’s photos. But I was hoping to get a look at the pictures she took of the valley.”

“Why don’t I take the roll in tomorrow and have it developed, then you can decide?”

“Sure. We’re going to have to move quickly on this. Abby wants to send the brochures out to some travel agents.”

“I’ll talk to Josie.”

“How is she feeling?” Hank asked, unable to hide his concern.

“Her ankle hurts, but she’s too stubborn to admit it. She doesn’t like having to stay here.”

Hank frowned. “Are you giving her the impression that we don’t want her to stay?”

Travis shook his head. “No. I know now I was wrong to treat her like I did.”

“It takes a big man to admit his mistakes.”

“And to see that the woman is a real looker,” Chance added.

Travis felt the heat rise to his face. “I bet Joy would love to hear how you feel.”

Chance scooted his large frame lower in the chair. “My wife doesn’t have to worry, she knows exactly how I feel. But a man can’t help but admire beauty.”

“Is that so, Mr. Randell?” Joy asked as she came through the door, carrying her sleeping six-month-old daughter.

“I’m in big trouble,” Chance joked as he stood and went to his wife. He kissed her, then took the baby.

His wife smiled up at him. “You can be saved if you take me home and convince me I’m the only woman in the world for you.”

“My pleasure,” he said.

Everyone wandered into the house, and saying their goodbyes, Cade gathered Abby, and their seven-year-old son, Brandon, and they all walked to the trucks. Hank, Ella and Travis waved them all off and returned to the house. Ella retired to her living quarters next to the kitchen while Hank and Travis headed for the stairs.

“I’m glad you changed your attitude about Josie,” Hank said. “She seems nice. And with a baby on the way, she’s going to need friends.”

Travis agreed, but just her presence here was going to be distracting for him. “She was worried what we’d think about her being pregnant.”

Hank shook his head. “Assure her that she’s welcome to stay here as long as she needs to recover. After all, she was hurt on the property.”

Travis nodded but didn’t know if it was a good idea that Josie stay here. Not when even he felt obligated to help her. He knew all too well about women in need. That had been how he’d met Lisa. She’d come to Private Access to answer an ad for a secretarial job about a year ago, and although she wasn’t qualified, he’d hired the pretty blonde. Now, looking back, he wondered if she’d planned to use him from the beginning. Travis had learned the hard way not to trust so easily…again.

He stopped at Josie’s room and listened, then opened the door and stepped into darkness. With only the moonlight to light his way, he walked to the bed, telling himself he was there to check on her condition.

He studied the pretty woman asleep on the pillow. She looked so peaceful he hated to wake her, but he leaned over and touched her shoulder. “Josie…” he whispered.

She made a moaning sound, then opened her eyes and gasped. “Travis?”

Her husky voice sent warm shivers through him. “I need to check your eyes.”

“I’m fine.”

He sat down on the edge of the bed. “Do you have to argue about everything?”

“No,” she said as she sat up, then grimaced.

“Your ankle still hurt?”

“A little.”

“Do you need something for the pain?”

She shook her head. “No, I don’t want to take anything because of the baby.”

“Of course,” he said and glanced down at her flat stomach. She didn’t look pregnant. Of course, she was only a few months along, but he couldn’t help but wonder how long before she started showing. What would she look like with a rounded belly?

He quickly shook away the thought and picked up the penlight on the bedside table, leaned forward, and shone it in her eyes, and caught a whiff of her. A fragrance he couldn’t describe other than it was Josie. Somehow he managed to check to see if her pupils were dilated—they weren’t.

“You’re fine. Do you need anything?” he asked.

“I’m okay. Really,” she said as she rotated her neck.

“Your neck sore?”

“A little,” she admitted.

Without thinking about the consequences, he placed his hands on her neck. A warmth shot through him as he silently worked the tight muscles in her neck. He didn’t want to think about the silky texture of her skin, or how close he was to her. But when she released a quiet whimper, he couldn’t take any more.

“That should help,” he said and stood. “I’m close by if you need me, and I’ll be back in a few hours to check your eyes again.”

She opened her mouth to argue, but this time he placed a finger over her lips. Another mistake. They were so soft, so warm. “I can be more stubborn than you, Josie. So accept the fact that we’re here to help you.”

She sighed in resignation.

He started to turn away. “I forgot. I was wondering if I could take your film in to be developed. Abby would like to see the pictures you took of the valley.”

“Sure,” she said, and pointed to the dresser. “My camera is over there.”

Travis retrieved the top-of-the-line 35mm camera and handed it to her. Josie hit the rewind button, then popped open the case, pulled out the roll of film and gave it to him.

“I’ll take good care of it for you,” he promised.

“Thank you.”

“As Hank would say, ‘just being neighborly.’” He walked out of the room, his pulse still racing like a sprinter. Damn. He refused to let another woman get under his skin.




Chapter Three


A large yellow glow brightened the blue sky as the sun started to peek over the distant hills. Hank leaned against the porch railing, enjoying the incredible view. This had always been his favorite part of the day. Dawn.

He took a hearty sip of Ella’s coffee. The woman couldn’t cook to save herself, but she did make the best brew around. He smiled, knowing that she was the happiest he’d seen her in years.

That was because all the boys were home.

Hank wasn’t feeling too bad about it, either. Although Chance, Cade and Travis weren’t really his, he always thought of them that way. Since the day he’d taken them in and given them a home, they’d been like his own boys. Although Cade and Travis had been gone for years, they were home now.

And two of those supposedly wild Randell boys were settled now. Chance had a wife and a baby daughter. At first Hank thought the boy was just plain crazy agreeing to marry a woman he’d only known less than a week just so he could get ahold of some land. But it hadn’t taken long for Chance to fall in love with Joy and little Katie Rose.

Then a short time later, Cade had returned from Chicago. At a party he’d run into Abby Garson, the girl he’d loved since he was sixteen. He started acting as angry as a wounded bear. Then after Cade discovered they had a seven-year-old son together, he’d done everything to get into Abby’s life except admit that he still loved her. It had been their son, Brandon, who finally brought them together. Now they’re a real family.

And a few weeks ago, the youngest, Travis, had showed up. After a rough time in Houston, Hank was glad that the boy felt he could return home and let them help him.

Oh, yeah, there was nothing like family, Hank thought as he looked around the ranch. He’d spent most of his life building the Circle B. Forty-three years ago, when he’d brought his new bride to San Angelo, he had planned to fill the large ranch house with children. Since he’d been orphaned, Hank didn’t have any family, and he and Mae both wanted a large brood. But years passed, and the babies never came. Although Mae had never said anything, he knew how much it bothered her that she couldn’t give him a child. He told her many times that it didn’t matter, but she was never convinced. When he’d lost his bride at forty-five, his life seemed to fall apart, until Chance, Cade and Travis came to live with him. Too bad Mae had never gotten to know them; she would have loved the boys as much as he did. They didn’t need to be blood for him to call them his sons.

And now they were all home again…and then some.

Hank grinned when he thought about the Circle B’s newest resident, Josie Gutierrez. The dark-haired beauty reminded him of someone, but he couldn’t quite figure out who.

He liked her. What he liked best was how she could rile Travis. That boy sure was in a snit about her being around. Hank shook his head. Good. It was time he thought about something besides computers. He needed a woman who got his blood stirred up. Hank would bet his prize bull that Josie might just have enough spunk to handle a Randell.

“What you all grinning about?”

Hank didn’t turn when he heard Ella’s voice. “Just thinkin’ how lucky I am.”

“So what’s put that dreamy look in your eyes?”

He sighed. “I was thinking about all the years I’ve been standing on this porch, looking out at this land.” He gave her a sideways glance. “And the boys.”

“That should keep you smiling awhile—having them home.”

“It does.”

She sobered. “Are you worried about what’s happening with the ranch? With Mustang Valley?”

“Naw, Chance and Cade are doing the right thing. With cattle prices up and down, we need some security. Not for me, but for them and for the grandkids.” He smiled. “Can’t say I’m unhappy that they’re all so close to home.”

Ella crossed her arms. “I guess I’m feeling the same. But what about Travis? I’m thinking he’s going to be heading back to Houston when this mess is cleared up.”

“I’m not so sure,” Hank said. “I don’t think he knows either. Maybe our Ms. Gutierrez will hold his interest long enough so he won’t want to go back.”

The housekeeper smiled. “Why you old codger, are you trying to matchmake?”

“Like you haven’t thought about it?” he accused playfully. “Besides, she seems like a nice young woman who’s had some bad breaks.”

Ella nodded. “Alone and with a baby on the way. That poor dear… I just hope she’s good with a camera.”

“Something tells me she’ll do just fine.” After seeing the loneliness in Josie’s eyes, Hank knew he couldn’t let her leave. She needed a dose of family.

Hank turned to Ella. “Besides, it’s fun to watch her rile Travis.”



About eleven o’clock the next morning, Travis yawned as he drove the truck back toward the ranch. He’d gotten up twice during the night to check on Josie. Waking the sexy green-eyed woman put ideas in his head that had nothing whatsoever to do with anything medical.

Travis groaned, remembering the soft purring sounds she’d made when he nudged her awake. It had taken all his willpower to do his job and then leave. Travis wasn’t a saint but he’d never taken advantage of women.

“They just take advantage of me,” he said sarcastically. He turned off the highway and rode under the Circle B archway. No, he wasn’t going to waste time thinking about Lisa. She was Byron’s problem now. He had moved on. Not an easy thing to do when his life was in limbo.

Travis already knew he’d have to start over, from scratch. But first he had to get out of the mess he was in now. Hopefully, Cade was taking care of that. One thing for sure, he needed his family. He kept remembering what Hank had told him once. He couldn’t do anything about how another person acted. It was only his actions that mattered. Although the family hadn’t blamed him, Travis had blamed himself. And one way or the other he was determined to clear the Randell name.

He pulled the truck beside the barn and parked in the usual spot. Seeing Hank with one of the hands, Travis grabbed a sack off the seat and went to talk with him.

“You’re up early this morning,” Hank said.

“I had some errands.” He held up the sack. “Josie’s photos.”

“Are they any good?”

“I don’t know,” he admitted. “I thought she should be the first one to see them.”

“Then let’s go find her.” Hank walked toward the house with Travis beside him.

In the kitchen, Travis was surprised to see Josie seated at the table, Ella braiding her hair.

“Travis, you made it back,” the housekeeper said. “You were gone so long, I thought you were headed back to Houston.”

“Not hardly, I just needed to get something taken care of this morning.” He turned to Josie. She was dressed in a white blouse and a pair of faded jeans. Her feet were bare, except for her bandaged ankle. His attention returned to her face, and he caught her challenging look. “What are you doing out of bed?”

She shrugged. “I got bored.”

“And how did you get down here?”

Her pretty green eyes darted away. “I managed with Ella’s help and some crutches.”

“I didn’t exactly encourage her,” Ella said.

Travis figured as much. He glared at Josie. “Don’t you realize that you could have fallen? And in your condition…”

Her chin came up. “I can take care of myself, and my condition is not your concern.”

“The hel—heck it isn’t,” he said perhaps a little too strongly.

“No, it’s not. I’ve managed for years,” she insisted.

She had to be the most obstinate woman he’d ever met. And by the look in her eyes, he wasn’t going to get anywhere. “Fine. Then I’ve got things to do.” He handed her the sack, then walked out.

Josie felt the heat rise to her face. Why did that man have to be so bossy? She glanced at Hank and Ella. “I’m sorry for that. It’s not that I don’t appreciate everyone’s help, but I’m used to doing things for myself.”

Hank sat down next to her. “And I raised those boys to be helpful, to treat women with courtesy and respect.” He raised a hand. “I don’t doubt that you can handle things, Josie, but I do believe Travis feels responsible for your accident.”

“He’s not,” she gasped. “I’m the one who was driving.”

“And it was a Circle B ranch hand who left the gate open.”

“But I don’t blame you or anyone.”

Hank smiled at her. “I’m glad to hear that, but humor us males. We just want to take care of you until you’re healed. Now tell me, do you have anywhere else to go?”

Josie shook her head, feeling her tears threaten. “No…”

His hand covered hers. “Then let us help you.”

It was so hard for her to depend on anyone. Now with her mother gone, there was only herself…and the baby. “I’ll try.”

“Good. Now, let’s have a look at those pictures.”

Josie opened the sack and drew out the stack of glossy prints, surprised to find that Travis had gotten her two sets. Touched by his thoughtfulness, she went through them, examining each photo closely. Some hadn’t turned out as she’d hoped, others showed her lack of experience, but there were six pictures she thought captured the early morning beauty of the valley. She only hoped Cade and Abby felt the same.

“How did they come out?” Hank asked.

Josie forced a smile. “Pretty good. I wish I had taken more than just the one roll.” She had planned to take additional shots before Travis had interrupted her. At the time she hadn’t any idea that her photos would be the link to her father’s life.

She handed the stack of photos to Hank. “I hope these will be enough to give Abby and Cade an idea of what I have in mind for the brochure.”

It seemed like a tremendous amount of time passed as Hank scanned the pictures. She found herself anxiously waiting for his approval of her work. After a few minutes he smiled, causing the lines around his eyes to deepen. “These are really good. You sure caught the sunrise. No place is prettier than that valley at dawn. Oh, Lord, Mae and I used to ride out there many a morning…” He stopped, his kind eyes took on a faraway look and Josie knew he was remembering a happy time.





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