ten

Rayna gasped. Her heart revved. “If that’s what I think it is, it’s a bit soon. We’ve only known each other three months. Even if we have spent a lot of time together.”

“Open it.” His eyes shone in the lights lining the drive.

Slowly, she lifted the lid. Sparkling green gems winked at her. Earrings. Her insides quivered with a war between relief and disappointment. “They’re beautiful.”

“A real nice clerk at the jewelry store helped me pick them out. Said emeralds are always good for redheads. And I like you in green. ’Course, I like you in anything.”

“They’re real?”

“Of course. I wouldn’t get my girl glass.”

His girl. She closed her eyes and pushed the box toward him. “It’s too much.” She’d only gotten him three inspirational western novels.

“Worth every penny.”

“But I didn’t spend that much on you.”

“Who’s counting? I love the books. Give me something to do in between customers on the days it’s my turn to work the desk at the ranch. I hate those days.”

“A few months ago you were in financial straits. I can’t accept these.”

“My straits are fine since I did my time as a male model and won the world title. And I insist.” He pushed the box back toward her then covered her hands with his. “Let’s go for a ride. Yah.”

The horse slowly clip-clopped along. Nestled against his side, she felt even warmer.

“Warm enough?”

Past boiling. “Yes.”

His lips lowered to capture hers, and the fire moved all the way down to her toes. Soft and gentle. And too short.

“Maybe next year, it’ll be a ring,” he mumbled.

❧

Rayna perched on the edge of the chair in Brother Timothy’s office. He must be the most patient man on earth. Other than Clay.

“Do you remember Jackie Melton?” Her mother raised an eyebrow.

“Homecoming queen. Dated that football jock. What was his name?” The pastor snapped his fingers. “It’s on the tip of my tongue.”

“They called him Moose. Anyway, I ran into her awhile back. They got married and had four boys. Can you imagine four boys?” Dayle’s expression clouded, and Daddy grabbed her hand. “I couldn’t even stick around long enough to raise one.”

Adam stood and stormed out, slamming the door.

Dayle’s face crumpled.

Daddy hugged her while Brother Timothy knelt in prayer.

Rayna stood to follow her brother.

“I made such a mess of things.” Her mother’s soft whimpers tore at Rayna’s soul. “I should have stayed and raised my babies. Lefty made so many promises, and I lost everything.”

“I wasn’t there for you like I should have been.” Daddy closed his eyes. “I shouldn’t have made you quit medical school. It was your dream.”

“That was no reason to commit adultery. I never should have left. I should have come back. But I knew I wasn’t worthy, and I knew y’all could never forgive me.”

Rayna scurried out, scanning the lobby for Adam but finding only Clay. She made a nosedive for his shoulder.

“Adam left. I assured him I’d get you home.”

“I think Lefty promised she could go back to medical school.”

“Sounds like he was a real scallywag. Come on. Let’s get you out of here. Think you’ve had enough for the night.” With his arm still around her, he turned her toward the door.

“Maybe he made it seem like her life was boring. Stuck at home with two kids, while his world was exciting, and he promised she could be a doctor. Her dream. It doesn’t excuse what she did, but I can see her side.”

“Good. I was hoping Brother Timothy could help.” Clay opened the door for her then nestled her against his side as they continued to his truck.

“Before things got tense in there and Adam stormed out, Daddy suggested we all have breakfast together Sunday morning. I’m not sure we’re ready for that.”

“Just give it time.”

❧

After Clay left, Rayna couldn’t sleep.

What do I do, Lord? How can I forgive her?

“I forgave those who nailed Me to the cross.”

The phone rang. Almost ten o’clock. Oh, don’t let it be anything bad. Please.

“Hello?”

“Just wanted to check on you,” Clay drawled.

“I’m okay.”

“You were so upset. I forgot to tell you that I’ll be out of town a few days.”

A chill settled in her chest. “Rodeo?”

“That, too. CWW signed me up for more commercials and three interviews on the radio. I’m gonna get it all done and be back at the Stockyards Friday night for the New Year’s rodeo. It’s the finals this year.

She’d actually forgotten about the campaign.

“I’d rather be with you, though. Nothing like kissing in the New Year with the woman who stole my heart. I’ve never had the pleasure before. Hate to miss out on it.”

“Oh Clay, I’m still not sure about us.”

“You don’t feel the same way?” Hurt echoed in his words.

“You know I do. But we’re still so different. The marriage thing doesn’t seem so daunting.” Since I met you. She closed her eyes. “But I’m still not sure about kids. You need someone who can share your dreams.”

“I’m praying about it. God will work out the details for us. Get some sleep.”

❧

Rayna’s office phone rang. An outside call. “Bradley & Associates. Rayna Landers speaking.”

“How are you?”

Clay’s voice filled her with renewed hope. “I’ve been treading water for the last twenty-two years and haven’t sunk yet.” She closed her eyes. “How’s the publicity trail?”

“Lonely. Did I dream it, or did you say something last night about getting used to the marriage idea?”

“I’ve thought about it some. I might consider it if the right guy came along.”

“The right guy, at your service. Keep praying. I love you, Rayna Landers.”

Her breath caught. “And I love you, Clay Warren.”

The line went dead, and she hung up.

In love with a cowboy. How did this happen? Well, if she was going to love a cowboy, she needed to make peace with the rodeo.

She hurried to Adam’s office and tapped on his closed door.

“Come in.”

“Hey, do you know where to get a ticket for the Saturday rodeo at the Stockyards?”

❧

Rayna made her way through the crowded lobby into the arena. The stands were packed. Oh, for a glimpse of dark curls.

“Hey darlin’.” His drawl set her heart aflutter, and his eyes sparkled. Chaps hugged his slim hips. An unwanted reminder of the bull waiting for him.

“Hey, yourself.”

“I’ve missed you, gal.”

“It’s only been three days.”

“I know, but I didn’t like it. Let’s not let it happen again. What are you doing here?” His arms came around her, and she felt like she’d made it home. His solid protective vest pressed against her heart. Please keep him safe.

“Came to see you, cowboy.”

“Let’s go somewhere to talk.”

“I don’t want to take your mind off the game.”

“Too late for that.”

She followed him out the back exit to a somewhat secluded alcove in the building.

“I’m thrilled to see you, but what are you doing here?”

“I figure I’m as comfortable at the rodeo as you are with photo shoots.” She sighed. “If we’re going to make this work, we both need to adapt.”

“Let me get this straight. The last time you were here you had an asthma attack. So you just decided to stop by?”

“I like to take the bull by the horns. And with you, life includes bulls.”

He cupped her face with tender hands. “You have no idea what it means to me that you’re willing to do this. But I want you to go home. Now.”

“No.” Rayna shook her head.

“Please don’t fight me on this.” Clay’s thumb traced her jawline. “I can’t concentrate on what I gotta do if I’m worrying about you in the stands.”

“You mean if I stay, you’ll be distracted, and you might get hurt as a result?”

“That’s exactly what I’m saying. Now, please. Go home.”

She nodded. “Since you put it like that.”

“I really appreciate you coming. A lot.” He brushed his lips across her cheek then turned her toward a teenage cowboy. “Jeff, can you see the lady makes it to her car all right?”

Without a backward glance, she followed Jeff for several minutes before chancing a peek. Clay was gone.

She hesitated then turned back. “I forgot something.”

The teenager shrugged then followed as she hurried toward the arena. She sucked in two quick puffs from her inhaler and found the first available seat, hoping Clay wouldn’t spot her.

I can do this.

“Rayna.”

She nearly jumped through herself.

Lacie’s baby bulge was cutely covered in a sequined red blouse. “I thought I saw you with Clay. Why did he seat you over here? These are the worst seats in the house.”

“He thinks I left.”

“Why?”

“Clay doesn’t want me here.”

“Why did you come?”

“Because if things are going to progress between us—and I really want them to—I have to learn to love the rodeo along with the man.”

“I see.” Lacie tapped her chin with a scarlet fingernail.

“Will he see me if I sit here?”

“Probably not, but you won’t see any of the action either. Maybe that’s a good thing.”

“How are you? How’s Mel?”

“I’m waddling along. Mel’s just the way I like him. Wonderful, perfect, and healthy. He had a bad ride last week, but no injuries. I pray and keep all of my fingers and toes crossed every time he goes out there.”

Blond curls danced as she shook her head. “Us girls will never understand what it is about a bull that makes a man want to ride it. I quit trying to make sense of it years ago. You can’t change a cowboy. You gotta take him for what he is and love him with all your might.”

“How do you do it, Lacie? Spend year after year. . . What is it now, seven?” Lacie nodded and Rayna continued. “Seven years watching your husband—the man you love more than life itself—ride a creature that has the capability, motive, and drive to crush him.”

“I love him.” Lacie shrugged. “And he loves this.”

Rayna could see enough. As events began, she cringed, hid her eyes, peeked through her fingers, and ducked her head. Despite the fidgets, she made it the entire night without her heartbeat multiplying or her breathing becoming minimized.

She even cheered when Clay won Stockyards Bull Riding Champ and Mel came in second.

When it was over, with Clay still in one piece, she ran to meet him. “Hey.”

His eyes widened, and he scaled the fence. “What are you doing here? Tell me you sat in the car and just now came in.”

“Sorry, I can’t do that.”

“Now Clay, Rayna was a real trooper tonight.” Lacie patted her shoulder. “Nary a gasp, and she did it for you. Don’t be too hard on her.”

His arms came around her, and she gave herself over to the scent of dirt, sweat, and animal. With her head resting against his shoulder, it was paradise.

“What are we gonna do?” He propped his chin on the top of her head.

“Let God work out the details.”

“Are you really okay?”

“I’m fine. The bronc and bull ride made me nervous, but I never got short of breath or anything like that.”

“You can’t come again.”

“I will if you do.”

“So that’s how it is?”

“I won’t hide from my fears.” Except where my mother is concerned.

“Did you have to use your inhaler?”

“I used it in advance—just in case.”

He pulled away and kicked a clod of dirt off his boot. Dust flew, and from the smell of things, it hadn’t only been mud. A muscle in his jaw clenched. “That’s why I don’t want you here. I don’t want you taking extra medication to deal with my livelihood. It would be better if you stay away from the bullpen.”

“I can’t.”

“Why?”

“Because the man I love is in the bullpen.”

With a heavy sigh, he looked heavenward then took her in his arms again.

“Ladies and Gentlemen.”

Rayna jumped.

“Find that special one and hold on tight. It’s almost midnight. Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one.”

Clay captured her chin and tilted her head back. His kiss was soft, tender, and held such promise. “I’m glad you stayed.”

“Me, too.”

❧

Rayna sat in the kitchen she’d grown up in, across the table from her mother. For the first time. That she could remember anyway. Adam sat beside her, and Daddy stood facing them at the island stove. Sausage sizzled and the spicy aroma made her stomach growl.

“I failed you both as a mother.”

“I won’t let you take all the blame, Dayle.” Daddy pointed his spatula in their direction. “You never had a pattern to follow.”

“True.” Dayle closed her eyes. “My mother left when I was just a baby. I never thought I’d follow in her footsteps.”

“I failed all of you,” Daddy said. “I asked Dayle out when I knew she was on the rebound. I knew she didn’t love me, but I thought if I could get her to marry me, she’d be mine.”

“Nonsense, Nick. None of this is your fault.” Dayle swiveled her chair toward him. “And I did love you. I still do. But I didn’t realize what I had until it was too late.”

“Then to top everything off, I made you quit school.”

“I needed to be home with the kids.”

“You saw your dream of being a doctor slipping away, while I pursued my degree. No wonder you resented me.”

“Let’s stop apologizing and blaming ourselves.” Dayle turned back to the table. “Save this stuff for our therapy sessions. This family begins now. Now that I see the blessings I have.”

“You mean the same blessings you threw away for Lefty Shelton?” Adam crossed his arms over his chest.

“That’s enough Adam.” Daddy rounded the island and set a platter in the middle of the table with a thump hard enough to shatter the stoneware.

The golden omelets laden with green peppers, sausage, and cheese turned Rayna’s stomach. “I’ve lost my appetite.”

“Me, too.” Adam stood and grabbed his jacket. “Besides, we don’t want to be late for church.”

“Maybe we could all go together.” Dayle pushed her plate away. “That’s what I wanted to tell y’all this morning. Your father and I went to see Brother Timothy last night. I accepted Jesus.”

Daddy cleared his throat. “And your mother and I are planning to remarry.”

Rayna gasped.

“Please.” Daddy claimed a chair between Rayna and her mother. “Can’t we have a nice breakfast and then go to church as a family? I think if Jesus can forgive your mother, the two of you can.”

A chair scraped the floor and Adam rejoined them.

Rayna hung her head.

Daddy took their mother’s hand. “Let’s pray over our meal.”

❧

Clay knocked on her condo door. With the season starting all over again, so would Rayna’s anxiety. Did he really want another season? He’d traveled too much, missed too much church, and missed too much life lately. But one more world title and he’d have officially lived up to his father’s legend.

Her door swung open. “The right guy, at your service.”

She lunged into his arms. “I’m glad you’re here.”

“Me, too.” He backed her inside, away from prying eyes, and shut the door. “But I have bad news.”

“What?” She pulled away to look at him.

“I have to leave town in a couple of days. CWW set up several interviews and public appearances.” Clay rolled his eyes. “At least it’s not a modeling gig.”

“I’ll miss you.” Her words were barely a whisper.

“Me, too.” He plopped on her couch, feeling like country in the middle of Vogue magazine. “Tell me how breakfast with the folks went.”

She blew out a big breath. “Tempers flared. Accusations flew. My mother announced she got saved. Daddy announced they’re getting married again, and we all went to church together. You’ll never guess what the sermon was on—forgiveness.”

“Wow. It’s awesome about your mom’s soul. Was your dad a Christian during their marriage?”

“No. He started taking us to church after she left us. I guess he didn’t know where else to turn.”

“I’m glad he turned to the right place. You know, most folks would be thrilled if their parents reunited.”

“It’s a lot to take in. I’m having a hard time putting it all in the past like Daddy has.”

Clay patted his shoulder.

She laughed and took his cue, laying her head on the waiting shoulder.

He inhaled her flowery scent. “Play hooky with me tomorrow. Spend the day with me at the ranch.”

“Sounds tempting. I haven’t called in sick or taken a personal day in two years.”

“Tell you what. You might want to spend the morning praying, or with your folks, or sleeping in. I’ll expect you around noon. But if you need more time, let me know. I think right now, repairing your family needs to come first.”

“You must be the perfect man.”

“Except for the rodeo thing.”

She shivered against him.

❧

Rayna stood in the ranch hallway glaring at the picture of Lefty Shelton. Strong hands gripped her upper arms from behind. She jumped.

“Sorry. Didn’t mean to sneak up on you.” Ty steadied her.

She turned to face him.

“He was a good man in the beginning. The fast lifestyle, the women, the money—it all went to his head. I tried to witness to him, but he wasn’t interested. When he died, I felt I’d failed him.”

“If only we could force others to do what we want.”

“If only.” Ty patted her shoulder. “You get plenty to eat?”

“Too much. Durlene’s taco soup warms the soul.”

Clay stepped into the hall. “There you are. How ’bout watching me train a horse?”

She shivered. “A bronc?”

“Nope. Natalie bought a new mare, and I’m training her for barrels.”

She’s still lurking about? “Sure.”

“You young folks, skedaddle.” Ty jammed his hat on. “Have some fun.”

Rayna slipped her coat on and followed Clay outside. The crisp late-January air burned her lungs as they walked to the arena. She perched atop the fence to watch him at work.

The white mare had a speckled shadow across her hindquarters. “What breed is she?”

“An Appaloosa.”

Clay led the horse around the barrels in a tight cloverleaf formation.

“How does that help her learn to run barrels?”

“It gets her accustomed to the pattern. We’re just getting started.”

He clicked his tongue. “Good girl. That’s it.” His eyes shone as he was obviously doing what he loved. And it was safe.

“When do you plan to quit the rodeo and give the ranch your full attention?”