This wealthy rancher is about to meet his match...and her two little secrets!

Colt Elliott is as handsome as he is cunning. And he wants his neighbor’s ranch. So when the owner’s beautiful daughter begs him to save her family’s home, he gives her a job so she can pay off her debt...and he becomes consumed with a new goal: seduce the fiery virgin.

But Annabelle is the guardian of her infant twin nieces and all three ladies begin to pull at his heartstrings. Colt will go to any lengths to get what he wants—but will his hidden agenda cost him Annabelle?

Twin Secrets is part of The Rancher’s Heirs series.

He leaned in closer as he flattened his palms on either side of her head.

It would be so easy to turn this into something more, right here and now.

They were alone. There was nothing stopping him. And he knew Annabelle was his for the taking.

Colt shifted until his lips grazed across hers like a whisper. “A man could get used to hearing a beautiful woman give him compliments.”

“Then maybe you should find a beautiful woman who wants to,” she murmured.

He nipped at her bottom lip. “I’ve found her.”

“Colt.” Her hands came up to his chest.

How could he want someone so desperately? He had always been able to control his needs, but not with Annabelle. She challenged him in so many ways, and she was the one woman he really shouldn’t want.

Still, seducing her was too sweet, too perfect.

Keeping one hand beside her face, he ran the other over her hip. His thumb slid beneath the hem of her tank. Her smooth skin beneath his touch was everything he’d been dreaming of... and he’d dreamed of her plenty last night.

“I want you,” he said.

“No, you want to control me.”

“Only in bed.”

* * *

Twin Secrets is part of The Rancher’s Heirs series— Loyalty and family mean everything to these Texas men and the women who tame them.

Twin Secrets

Jules Bennett

www.millsandboon.co.uk

National bestselling author JULES BENNETT has penned over forty contemporary romance novels. She lives in the Midwest with her high-school-sweetheart husband and their two kids. Jules can often be found on Twitter chatting with readers, and you can also connect with her via her website, www.julesbennett.com.

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This goes to Stacy Boyd, who said she loves cowboys and baby stories...so I delivered an entire series of both! Thanks for the ideas!

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

Title Page

About the Author

Dedication

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Epilogue

Extract

Copyright

One

How the hell could her father have gambled away all of his savings? As in, every last penny to his name. His reckless way of living finally caught up with him...with them. He’d lost major things before: his car, his retirement funds, all of her mother’s jewelry—save for the one piece Annabelle had hidden away. But he’d gone too far this time.

As if Annabelle Carter didn’t have enough on her plate. She’d come home to Stone River, Texas, to start over. She’d brought her sweet twins, six-month-old Emily and Lucy, and planned to offer them a new life and begin building her dream...a vision of her late mother’s.

But, no. Now Annabelle was driving to the ranch next door to do damage control. As she turned onto the long drive, flanked by a pristine white fence, she pulled in a breath. The arched, metal sign over the entrance was a good indicator of the amount of money these people had. The stone columns suspending the sign were nothing short of remarkable. The beauty started from the street and she could only imagine what she was about to see at the end of this drive.

Pebblebrook Ranch was one place she’d never ventured into. It was owned by the hoity-toity Elliott family, and they didn’t necessarily run in the same circles. The five–thousand-acre spread boasted several massive homes. Just one of their mansions was worth more than Annabelle’s entire farm.

And that was when they’d actually had livestock. Her father, however, had gambled animals away, too. She’d been gone two years, living in Houston, and in that time he’d completely lost everything.

Rage ripped through her. What would he have done had she not come back home to nurse her own wounds? A fresh wave of anger surged through Annabelle as she remembered her sister and fiancé’s betrayal. And the crippling effects of her sister’s recent death. So much pain, Annabelle wasn’t sure how to log it all inside her heart.

Now she had to deal with Colt Elliott on top of everything else. She’d never met the man, but she knew of the Elliott brothers. Sexy ladies’ men, all much older than her. If she recalled correctly, Colt was a twin. Were the twins the youngest of the siblings?

None of that mattered. What mattered was that her father had borrowed money to pay off the farm loan before it could go into foreclosure, without informing her. Of all people to go to, her father had gone to Colt Elliott. Not that there were many people who could’ve helped, but Neil Carter could have come to Annabelle first. She didn’t have that chunk of cash, but she would’ve gone through hell before borrowing from the Elliotts.

Now her father owed Colt instead of the bank. Perfect. Just perfect. The loan had been so close to being paid off, but her father just couldn’t hang on any longer. He’d gone through all the money he’d put aside. Thankfully, Annabelle had set aside money for her sister’s funeral expenses, or her father would’ve gone through that, as well.

According to her father, he and Colt had come to an agreement that he had to pay off the debt within three months. The bimonthly payments couldn’t be a day late or a penny short or the farm would permanently belong to Colt.

Fine. Annabelle had no problem taking over her dad’s end of the bargain. She refused to lose the only thing she had left. Her childhood home would not go to the family whose hobby was probably sitting around counting their wad of cash.

Annabelle’s father claimed Colt was helping, but she didn’t believe that for a second. People like the Elliotts didn’t just do things out of the kindness of their hearts. In terms of wealth and influence, they were a giant leap above all other people in this town. With their mansions on the sprawling estate, the billions of dollars that passed through the farm from all their livestock...the rest of the businesses in the area didn’t even compare. They were Stone River’s answer to a cattle monopoly...if that was a thing. Random people didn’t just go to Pebblebrook. It was like some sacred ground that mere peons didn’t dare trespass on.

Well, too bad because she wanted to know what Colt’s agenda truly was. She suspected he wanted her land for himself and she was going to have no part of that. She had her own dreams: marriage, siblings for her twins, opening her bed-and-breakfast. She’d already lost so much—she wasn’t about to lose her home or her future.

Annabelle approached the sprawling three-story log and stone home. Sturdy wooden porches stretched across the first and second floors and two balconies extended from double glass doors off the third floor. Probably bedrooms. She imagined Colt on a balcony overlooking his massive estate, as if he were a king overlooking his kingdom. Annabelle swallowed. She couldn’t even fathom the money these people had.

When a horse came from around the side of the two-story stable, Annabelle immediately forgot about the house. And it wasn’t even the striking black stallion that had her attention.

Hellllo, Shirtless Stable Boy.

She may be nursing a shattered heart but she wasn’t dead, and this hottie with excellent, tanned muscle tone was a perfect temporary distraction. How much work did it take to get ripped like that? Ranching certainly produced some fine—

Annabelle jerked as her car hit something and came to an abrupt stop. Gripping the wheel, eyes squeezed shut, she had no clue what had just happened, but she’d been distracted and obviously ran into...oh, please don’t be a person or an animal.

Opening one eye at a time, she saw nothing but the barn and grassy fields...and the shattered post where the fence had been. Mercy, she’d been so caught up in the hunk on horseback, she’d run into the fence. Way to make an entrance.

As if she needed another problem in her life.

Mortified and shaken up, Annabelle shut off her car, thankful the babies weren’t in the backseat. Her door jerked open, startling a squeal out of her.

“Are you all right, ma’am?”

That perfect Southern drawl combined with the bare chest she now stared at was enough to render her speechless. But even that couldn’t override the reason she came. Just because she’d wrecked her sporty car, her only material possession worth any money, didn’t mean she could deviate from her plan. What was one more setback at this point?

“I’m fine,” she stated, trembling more from the sight of the sexy stranger than the actual accident.

Annabelle swung her legs out and came to stand, but the cowboy didn’t back up. With one hand on her open car door and the other on the hood, he had her trapped. On any other day, she would’ve welcomed this stranger getting in her space and making her forget her cheating fiancé, but today there was no time for lustful thoughts. She shivered again as his eyes swept over her.

“Sorry about the fence,” she stated, shoving her hair away from her face. “I’ll pay to have it repaired.”

With the savings that were supposed to go toward realizing my mother’s dream.

“The sun was in my eyes,” she went on. No way was she about to admit she’d been staring at his perfect...riding form.

“Don’t worry about the fence.”

Now he stepped back, but just enough for her to take in his well-worn cowboy boots, fitted jeans over a narrow waist...that glistening chest and his tipped cowboy hat. Black, of course.

“What brings you to Pebblebrook?” he asked, propping his hands on his hips.

Annabelle pulled in a breath. “I’m here to see Mr. Elliott. My name is Annabelle Carter and I live next door. Well, I used to a few years ago, but I’m back now.”

Despite the chiseled jaw and the heavy-lidded gaze, the man’s mouth tipped into a slight grin. “Well, ma’am, Mr. Elliott is busy right now. Is there something I can help you with? A glass of sweet tea? You look like you could use a break.”

Sharing a sweet tea, or anything else with this hunky stranger, was tempting, but not on her agenda.

Annabelle blew out a breath. Mr. Elliott was busy. Of course. Probably at the bank purchasing more properties to add to his collection. A man like Colt didn’t work outside in the heat tending to his own animals and land. That would be too far beneath him.

“You work here?” she asked, crossing her arms.

His mouth twitched again. “Yes, ma’am.”

“Then give your boss a message.” She may not be able to talk to the man himself, but she would leave her mark—and she didn’t mean the broken fence. “I’d like to talk to him about my ranch next door and the agreement he made with my father. Please tell Mr. Elliott, when he’s done getting his manicure or finished stealing puppies from children, he will be dealing with me from now on. I’ll be waiting at my house for his visit.”

Because she certainly wouldn’t be showing her face here again.

The stable hand simply tapped the brim of his black hat and tipped his head. “I’ll be sure to let him know.”

His eyes raked over her once more, sending shivers through her despite the Texas heat. “Are you sure you don’t want something to drink? Have a seat on the porch. You look like you could use a break.”

Oh, she could use a break. Like a monthlong vacation somewhere exotic with a fruity umbrella drink full of alcohol and unlimited refills. But she’d just settle for a break from all the pain life kept dishing out.

“No, I don’t have the time.” Not to mention, she couldn’t stay in his presence too much longer. It was difficult keeping her eyes off that broad chest sprinkled with dark hair and the tattoo on his right bicep.

“Is there anything else I should pass on?” he asked.

Since she was in a mood, she nodded. “I’m not a pushover like my father. Make sure you tell him he has twenty-four hours to contact me.”

The “or else” hung in the air, but she had no idea what her “or else” threat would be so she left it at that. She hoped she sounded badass, but it was kind of hard with her bright red car mounting the fence.

The cowboy stepped toward the front of her vehicle, assessing the damage. She didn’t even want to know how this would affect her insurance. One crisis at a time.

“Your little car has quite a bit of damage, ma’am.”

With a flick of his fingertip, he adjusted his hat, bringing that cobalt blue gaze up to hers. The striking color of his eyes only added to his appeal. Did all the stable hands at this ranch have the qualifications to do calendars? Because she wouldn’t mind buying one of those.

“I’m pretty sure this would fit in the bed of my truck,” he muttered around a grin. “Should I haul it next door for you?”

Annabelle ignored his snarky jab. It was only because of his sex appeal that she let the question slide. Besides, she wasn’t here to impress people or make friends.

“I can drive. Thank you.”

She turned to get back into her car. As she started it up again, the cowboy closed her door, then leaned inside the window. “I’ll be sure Mr. Elliott gets in touch with you today.”

Annabelle nodded and shifted into gear. He stepped back, giving her one last glimpse of the fine body she didn’t have time to fully appreciate.

Disappointed that she hadn’t gotten face time with Colt Elliott, Annabelle headed back down the drive and prepared the speech she’d deliver when she did see him. She was done letting life—and men—rob her of her dreams.

* * *

He watched her tiny red car until it disappeared at the end of the drive. Annabelle Carter was one fired-up woman. The vibrant red hair and flashing green eyes had him more intrigued than he should be.

When he’d come around the side of the barn to put Lightning away after his morning ride, he’d caught a glimpse of the car just before it missed the turn in the drive and slammed into the fence.

“Colt?”

He turned to see Josh, one of his best stable hands, heading his way.

“Everything all right?” he asked. At nearly forty, Josh was probably Colt’s hardest worker.

Colt nodded toward the fence. “This is top priority. Tell Ryan to assist you. I’ll put Lightning in her stall.”

Colt almost wished he hadn’t fired a worker last week, but the guy had it coming and Colt didn’t put up with lazy. He worked too damn hard. Just because his bank account had more zeroes than this town had ever seen, didn’t mean he wasn’t a hands-on type of guy—in business and in pleasure.

Josh nodded. “Is the lady okay?”

Speaking of hands-on...

Was she? Colt thought of the way she’d demanded to see “Mr. Elliott.” He nearly lost it when she mentioned a manicure and puppy stealing. She truly didn’t have a high opinion of him, but that was fine. He’d seen the sexual interest when he’d gotten close. She was pretty damn sexy herself.

But Colt hadn’t been ready to tell her who he was until he knew what she wanted. Being mistaken for a worker was just one of the advantages of loving the ranch life. He may be the owner, well, he and his three brothers, but Colt was by far the most active. He took pride in what he had. There was no question of authority around here and his staff respected him. He wouldn’t have it any other way.

Keeping in control of every situation is what led him to the success he had today. So, letting Annabelle believe he was just a ranch hand had definitely worked to his advantage. Now he had time to plot, to think of exactly how he wanted to play this situation out.

She said she was back in town, and he hadn’t missed the way she’d looked at his chest. Maybe a little flirting, even a little seduction, would be in order.

Colt mounted Lightning and trotted back to the stable while Josh went to get supplies to fix the broken fence. Annabelle may be more financially savvy than her old man, but that wouldn’t change the outcome.

The documents Neil Carter had signed without taking the time to read were completely legal and binding.

Colt had been wanting to get that land for years. The Carter’s five-hundred-acre farm wasn’t vast in comparison to his, but he and his brothers had shared a vision of owning it. Their main goal was to turn the property into an adjoining dude ranch. The Carter home was perfect for additional housing for guests.

Colt’s father had always been a dreamer, not a doer. He’d discussed owning a dude ranch, having people come to stay on their property and learn the ways of their life, but he’d never gotten beyond the talking stage. Dementia had stolen Grant Elliott’s mind, leaving Colt to carry on and bring his father’s legacy to life.

From the time Colt was a young boy, he’d itched to see this property grow, to see people from all over flock in and see what they’d created. He refused to let anything stand in the way of his goal, even the sassy, beautiful Ms. Carter.

After putting the saddle and blanket away, he grabbed the brush to groom the dust from Lightning. While stroking the stallion, an epiphany struck him. Colt was a smarter businessman than Neil, clearly. Hell, Colt knew Neil had no idea what he’d agreed to when he’d accepted the money to pay off the loan—the man had been too desperate. But Colt would give Annabelle a chance to pay that debt. There were six installments left. Three months was all that stood between him and everything he’d ever wanted.

Suddenly being one stable hand short wasn’t such a hardship. Perhaps Annabelle would be interested in a little work to help pay off the debt. She no doubt wanted to discuss the arrangement. She’d controlled her anger with him, thinking she’d just been talking to a stable hand, but there had been fury in those deep green eyes. Well, he’d use that fury to his advantage and make her an offer she couldn’t refuse.

Colt patted the side of the stallion and finished brushing him as his brilliant plan took shape. He had no intention of ever handing that land over again. It finally belonged to him, but her father had to learn a lesson. He owed more than just this debt, but Annabelle didn’t need to know that.

Having such a beautiful woman on his property sure would perk things up around here. She had drive and determination. He couldn’t help but admire her spirit.

Colt whistled as he headed back toward the main house. His limp from the accident wasn’t even bothering him today. Sometimes it ached, but right now, he had his mind on other things...like the sexy redhead he needed to properly introduce himself to.

He made his way to his third-floor master suite to get ready for a very important meeting. He owned the land, now he wanted to own the woman. And Colt Elliott always got what he wanted.

Two

Infuriating man.

Annabelle found herself on Colt Elliott’s property for the second time today. She’d wanted to have the meeting in her house, where she could have some level of control. But when Colt’s assistant or minion, or whatever, had called, he’d made it clear that Colt would meet with her, and only her, at precisely 7:00 p.m. at Pebblebrook. Otherwise, the meeting was off.

Damn infuriating man. She’d never met him and she already despised the air he breathed.

Whatever. She just wanted this to be over with. The sooner she could get Colt to agree to her terms, the better. Hopefully he’d see that this new arrangement would be beneficial to both of them. No matter what he threw at her, Annabelle wasn’t leaving until she had something to cling to, some hope that she wasn’t doomed to a life of failure when she was only twenty-four years old.

She was a mother to two beautiful twin girls now. Her father was doting all over them at the moment and would have to be her babysitter when she found a job. He was responsible with children, just not money. Besides, she couldn’t afford to pay a sitter for one kid, let alone two.

First, she had to get this debt straightened out, and then she’d focus on getting that job. Surely, there was something in town she could do. At this point, she wasn’t going to be picky.

Smoothing her hands down her green sundress, she pulled in a deep breath. Her nerves weren’t about to abate, so she rang the bell and stepped back...waiting to enter the enemy’s lair.

This place was so huge, it was almost intimidating. A wooden bridge arched slightly over a creek that ran in front of the house between the drive and the entrance.

The man literally sat in his castle, complete with moat, waiting on the town peons to enter his kingdom. Oh, how she wished someone would knock him down a peg or two. She had an unhealthy dose of anger stored up with Colt Elliott’s name written all over it.

She wasn’t even getting into the anger she had toward her father for putting her in this position to begin with. All he’d told her is that Colt had fronted the money and the loan was paid off. Now they owed Colt, not the bank. She made sure her father got that in writing from Colt and Neil had said he did sign a paper and it had been notarized. So, at least her father had been smart enough not to just do things the old-fashioned way with a handshake and a promise. Because Annabelle didn’t trust Colt Elliott. Not one iota.

The double doors swung open and an elderly man stood before her. Annabelle thought the Elliott boys’ father had passed some years ago, so she wasn’t sure who this man was.

“Come in, Ms. Carter. Mr. Elliott is expecting you.”

She stepped over the threshold and nearly gasped. If she’d thought the outside was spectacular, the inside was breathtaking.

The entryway allowed her to see all the way up to the third story. An open walkway on both floors connected each side of the house, allowing anyone upstairs to see the entire foyer.

Annabelle was getting a vibe that Colt liked to look down on people, to belittle them. Well, he may have pushed her father around, but he was about to deal with a whole new game player. She wanted to know precisely why he’d extended his hand of generosity to her family. Nobody did something like this just to play nice.

“I’m Charlie.” The older gentleman closed the door and tipped his head down in greeting. “If you’ll follow me, I’ll take you to Mr. Elliott.”

Annabelle continued taking in all the beauty of this home, and tried not to let jealousy take over. The Elliotts existed on a whole other level than her family ever had, especially now that they had nothing. But Annabelle wasn’t about to let life run her over. She’d had enough and Colt Elliott was about to get the brunt of her frustrations.

The calming trickle of water drew her attention as she passed by a sunken living area. Who the hell had a waterfall wall in their home? Oh, right. The people who counted their billions as a hobby.

Annabelle forced her frustrations aside and continued on behind Charlie. There was a bigger issue at hand. She wasn’t going to spend her time assessing how this family lived so lavishly when everything had been robbed from hers. Everyone created their own destiny; unfortunately, she was the victim of her father’s.

No more. Annabelle had a vision for her future and it certainly didn’t involve giving up her childhood home. Once she got to the bottom of this ordeal, she could start on rebuilding her life. Because she wasn’t just worried about herself anymore, there were two sweet babies to consider.

Charlie led her through a maze and she wondered if she’d ever find her way out once this meeting was over. Finally, he stopped in front of an oversize arched doorway. He tapped his knuckles on the door before easing it open.

“Sir, Ms. Carter is here.”

Nerves gathered heavily in her belly as she smoothed her sundress down one last time. She didn’t care what her emotions were, and there were plenty, but she had to keep them hidden. Someone like Colt Elliott would home in on any weakness and use it to his advantage. Clearly, or she wouldn’t be here trying to get her house back from the man who’d snatched it from her father during one of his worst moments.

Charlie eased the door open and stepped back with a nod before disappearing back down the labyrinth of hallways.

Shoulders back, ready to battle the enemy, Annabelle stepped into the spacious office complete with a wall of windows overlooking back acreage. The second she shifted her focus to the other end of the room, she stilled. Her heart clenched, breath caught in her throat.

“You,” she gritted through her teeth. If it wasn’t Shirtless Stable Boy himself.

* * *

Colt had been right. She was just as stunning as he remembered. He wondered if he’d still feel the same way once he’d had time to process the events of earlier. But now that Annabelle Carter was in his home, he took another moment to appreciate the entire package.

That vibrant red hair, wide green eyes, simple makeup and a green dress that she probably thought practical...he found it tempting. How long would it take to undo each of those tiny buttons down the front?

“You lied,” she accused him, not moving any farther into the room.

Colt rose from behind the antique desk that had belonged to his father, and his father before him. He circled it and came to lean against the front. Crossing his ankles, he rested his hands on either side of his hips and shrugged. He always appreciated a good sparring opponent.

“I didn’t lie,” he amended. “I told you Mr. Elliott was busy when you asked. And I was. I had just finished exercising my stallion and needed to get him brushed and fed. I wasn’t getting a manicure or stealing puppies. I save those fun events for Saturdays.”

Her expressive green eyes narrowed as she slowly made her way across the room. Oh, she was going to be so fun. He didn’t miss the way she took her time in assessing him, as well. Let her look. If all went as planned, she’d have plenty of opportunities to do more than caress him with her eyes.

“What is it you wanted to see me about?” he asked, ready to hear what she thought she could do to rectify this situation. He had a plan of his own to throw at her.

“I hardly recognize you with your shirt on.”

So, Ms. Annabelle had claws. He liked that in a woman, preferably when she clawed at his back, but verbally would do...for now.

Colt couldn’t hide his smile. She was definitely going to be more of a joy to deal with than Neil Carter.

“If you’re requesting I take it off, I’m happy to oblige.”

She crossed her arms over her chest, doing nothing to deter him from appreciating her lush shape. “The only thing you can oblige me with is discussing the terms of this contract you have with my father.”

“Not my first choice during a meeting with a beautiful woman.” Colt stood straight up, ready to get down to business. Obviously, they would have to get this out of the way first. “The arrangement is simple, as I’m sure he told you. He has six payments left on the property. I paid off his loan and now he owes me. I’m not charging interest like the bank, so the payments are actually cheaper than he was used to. He came to me for help, and—”

“How kind of you,” she stated drily.

Colt shrugged with a smile. “I thought so.”

Annabelle sucked in a deep breath and dropped her hands to her sides. Stepping forward, she came within a couple feet of Colt, enough for him to see the variation of green in her eyes. Definitely eyes a man could get lost in. Not him, but some other man. Colt only did physical relationships, nothing more.

“You’ll be dealing with me from now on.”

Oh, he sure as hell hoped so.

“I will take over the payments, but I need you to give me a few weeks to get on my feet. I have no job, since I came back to Stone River sooner than I’d expected,” she went on, a flash of sadness flickering in her eyes. “Our savings are...well, that’s none of your concern. But I already called a few places this afternoon and I’m sure I’ll have a job shortly.”

She couldn’t be playing any better into his scheme. Before he could present her with his brilliant plan, she held up her hand.

“If you can give me two weeks off initially, I’ll make sure you get interest as a sign of good faith.” Annabelle’s lips thinned. She was furious with her old man, as she should be. “I have plans for my home, so believe me, I don’t want to drag this out any longer than necessary.”

Colt admired her determination. Hell, he knew all about setting sights on a goal and going straight for it. Hadn’t he lived his entire life by such ideals?

The dude ranch dream he shared with his father was just the final piece of his life he needed to click into place.

There had been setbacks along the way. Colt hadn’t expected his father to slip into dementia and require around-the-clock care. Colt hadn’t planned on breaking his back and shattering his hip bone while rebuilding the barn after a tornado ripped through town last year. His brothers had instantly reminded him there was no need to lift a hammer, they hired their work done.

But Colt loved manual labor. He loved this farm and he wasn’t about to let anyone, even his sexy neighbor, stand in the way of him taking it to the next level.

“Here’s the deal.” He took one step forward, closing the gap between them. Head tilted up, her eyes locked on to his. “You will make the payment on time, as was agreed by your father. One late payment and the land will permanently be mine.”

It would be in the end anyway, but if a payment was missed, at least Colt would have his property sooner.

Those green eyes narrowed. “I had no idea about this deal until last night when I returned home. I’ve been back less than twenty-four hours. I need some time to make job arrangements before the payment is due next week. Surely you’re not that coldhearted.”

Part of him felt sorry for her, but he was about to extend the proverbial olive branch...whether or not she chose to accept it was on her. Either way, he would be the real winner at the end of the day.

“Not at all.” He offered a smile that he knew had brought women to their knees...literally. “I have a position for you right here at Pebblebrook.”

Silence settled between them as he waited on her response. They both knew he held the upper hand, but she could make this entire encounter much easier on herself.

The muscles in her jaw clenched as she glared at him. Damn if her sass and grit weren’t the sexiest things he’d seen in a long time.

Agreement or not, this woman would be in his bed. Visions of that crimson red hair spread all around his navy sheets flooded his mind. But seduction would have to wait, at least until she wasn’t shooting daggers at him.

“I don’t even want to know the position you think I’m qualified for.”

Colt laughed, realizing he’d felt more alive being the target of her snarky attitude than he had in a long time. “I like you.”

“Well, right now, I hate you.”

He shrugged. “You’re the yin to my yang. Sounds like we’re going to get along perfectly in the stables.”

“Stables?” she repeated, with a quirk of a brow.

“I’m short a stable hand and you need a job. You can start tomorrow and I’ll use your wages toward the payments.”

Annabelle pulled in a breath and shook her head. “I can’t work long hours. I have another commitment and I need a job that offers some flexibility.”

He leaned forward, pleased when her eyes flared. “The way I see it, you don’t really have a choice. So, if this other obligation is going to get in the way, I suggest you give it up now.”

For a split second Colt was convinced she was going to cry. He didn’t like being played and he figured she’d try to get his sympathy by weeping. But when she blinked and glanced away, Colt realized she was simply trying to control herself.

Yeah, Annabelle was quite a strong woman to come here and face her father’s problem. Colt despised the man for putting his child in such a position. Everyone had their breaking point and Colt figured she’d dealt with her father’s addiction for far too long.

The strength she projected was quite the turn-on. Too bad all this business got in the way of him getting her into his bedroom. Soon, he vowed.

“Whatever this other commitment is, you’re going to have to let it go.”

She shoved her hair behind her shoulders and turned her attention back to him. “I can’t. I will work here, but you have to understand there are times I will have to adjust my schedule. I can give you a few hours at a time.”

Colt considered her ultimatum. He wasn’t one to give in to demands, but he had to admit, he liked what he saw with his new neighbor. Someone with that much grit would be a fun way to break up his days. Besides, remaining somewhat on her good side would only aid in his seduction plan.

“Fine. I’ll pick you up at seven tomorrow morning,” he informed her.

Annabelle laughed. “I can drive myself.”

“If you hit another section of my fence, I’ll have to take the repairs out of your check and you’re indebted to me already. The transportation is nonnegotiable.”

When she let out an extremely unladylike growl, Colt forced himself not to crack a smile. Not even a little one. He may hang out with cowboys all day and make business deals all other waking hours, but he knew how to treat a woman. His father had instilled manners in him—somewhat—and Colt wasn’t about to laugh in her face. But he couldn’t resist the fence jab or the scheme to get a few minutes of alone time with her each day.

“Fine,” she gritted out between her teeth. “I’ll be ready.”

When she turned to leave, he couldn’t help but take in the fine sway of her skirt and imagine what lay beneath.

“Oh, one more thing.” He waited until she stopped, throwing a glance over her shoulder. “Be sure to wear old clothes. We tend to get dirty.”

Her eyes flared before narrowing. “Did I mention that I hate you right now?”

“It will pass,” he informed her with a smile. “See you first thing in the morning.”

Three

“You don’t have to do this, honey.”

Annabelle pulled in a deep breath and attempted to count backward from ten. She moved off the last step and met her father’s worried gaze.

Neil Carter stood next to the front door, his hair messed from more than just sleeping. She hadn’t expected her father to be waiting on her so early, but that’s the type of man he was. Neil may be a professional gambler, losing pretty much all he’d worked for and all he’d provided, but he loved his family. He’d been the rock when her mother passed while Annabelle and her sister had been in grade school—well, until it all became too much and he turned to gambling. But he hurt, too, and Annabelle knew he was devastated after Trish’s death only weeks ago. They both were. But for now, she could only deal with one crisis at a time.

The mourning would have to come later, at least for her...because she had to get over the betrayal first and she truly didn’t even know if that was possible.

“I do have to do this, dad.” Now was not the time to get into her arrangement with Colt, not when her ride was due any minute. “You left me no choice since we have no other way to pay.”

Her father had lost his job at the factory one county over when he couldn’t make it to work on time. He’d been embarrassed to tell her, but now that she was back, there was no way to hide anything. She needed to be aware of every ugly truth so she could make things right.

Her father raked a hand down his face and stared up at the ceiling. “I’m sorry, baby girl.”

Wasn’t he always sorry after the fact? This time, though, she had to put her life on hold and dig them both out of this hell. She didn’t know what he would’ve done had she not come home.

“I can’t do this right now, Dad. Between you and Colt, I’m pretty stuck. But we’ll get through this.”

“I’ll talk to him,” her father vowed, his gaze seeking her once more. “I can make this work, Belle. I can stop gambling. I’ll get another job and help out. I know you and—”

“No.” She held up a hand, not ready for him to take this conversation in another direction or make promises he couldn’t keep. “We’re going to be fine. I’ll still do everything I’d planned to, it’s just going to be on a different timeline.”

As in, years away. The family life, the bed-and-breakfast...those plans would have to wait.

The doorbell rang and Annabelle jerked her attention to the old oak door. Her father turned, but Annabelle stepped forward to cut him off.

“I’ll get it.” Closing the space between them, she put her hand on her dad’s shoulder. “Maybe you shouldn’t be in here right now.”

“But—”

“No. You and I will talk, but not now and you’re not talking to Colt. You’ve done enough.”

Her father cringed, but she refused to feel guilty. This was a mess—a mess he’d gotten them into. Perhaps he needed a dose of reality.

Finally, her father nodded and headed toward the steps. Annabelle waited until he was gone before she pulled in a breath and opened the front door.

Colt stood on her porch with his black hat in hand, as if he were there to ask her on a date. Damn that man. As if his Southern charm and manners would make her not loathe him on sight.

But he was a sight to behold. A black T-shirt stretched across his broad shoulders and those well-worn jeans fit in all the right places. She’d never seen a finer cowboy. If she were to pass Colt on the street, she’d never guess him to be a billionaire rancher who swooped in and stole properties while trying to charm the panties off unsuspecting women. There was no way he didn’t have his own agenda with her family’s land, and regarding this little matter of him giving her a ride. If that wasn’t the worst use of a euphemism, she didn’t know what was.

Colt raked his eyes over her and she forced herself not to fidget. Someone like Colt probably had eye candy for every night of the week, one on each arm. No doubt leggy blondes with big hair and big boobs, hanging on his every word. They probably wore booty shorts and cowgirl boots, too.

“I see you dressed for the day.”

She’d found her oldest jeans and a simple tank. Any girl from Texas had a great pair of worn boots, so she’d thrown those on and pulled her hair into a ponytail. No makeup, no fuss. She was there to save her home, not get marks for her grooming.

Behind her, Annabelle heard the familiar sounds she’d grown to love over the past few months. Before she could turn or say a word, Colt’s gaze widened and she knew exactly what he saw.

Not that she wanted him to have any part of her personal life, but she was pleased to render him speechless for a bit. Maybe Colt Elliott could be shaken and knocked down a peg.

“And who are these pretty girls?” he asked, still keeping his eyes over her shoulder.

Annabelle smiled. “Emily and Lucy. My twins.”

* * *

Colt was rarely at a loss for words, but seeing Neil hold two mini versions of Annabelle was quite shocking. She hadn’t mentioned having a baby—or babies. Now he understood why she needed a flexible work schedule...and he felt like a complete jerk.

Twins were definitely a handful. He should know, considering his mother always said that about him and his brother Beau. Colt wondered how Annabelle thought she could work and manage two infants back at home, but—

No. He wasn’t going to get involved. Business and seduction were the only items on his agenda.

But could he still seduce her? Was she taken? There hadn’t been a ring on her finger and she’d never said anything about having a husband...not that he’d asked her any such thing.

Annabelle turned, crossed the foyer and kissed each girl on the cheek. Instantly, one of the girls reached for Annabelle, but she shook her head.

“I’ll be home soon. I love you both.”

As she came back to him, one baby started to fuss, which somehow triggered the other one to start whimpering. Annabelle kept walking until she was out the door. With his hands full of unhappy infants, Neil held on to Colt’s gaze, but Colt didn’t feel a bit guilty. That man had done some major damage to his family...damage Colt hoped Annabelle never found out about. He’d lost their home and that was bad enough. But there was more and it was certainly not Colt’s place to share.

He closed the door behind him, settled his hat back on his head and turned to Annabelle. She swiped at her cheeks, as if he didn’t notice the tear tracks.

Guilt punched him in the chest.

“Where’s the truck?” she asked, obviously not wanting to address her emotions.

Fine. He wasn’t one to get in touch with his emotions, either. Just another area he realized they may be more alike than he’d care to admit. They both clearly had a love for their family and were determined to get what they wanted.

But only one of them would be the winner in the end...and he never lost.

Colt stepped off the porch, making mental notes to expand its width and put in a stone walkway when the place was officially his. He needed to stay focused on the goal. While this house had good bones and was fine for everyday living, Colt wanted it to be up to the standards of his ranch. If they were going to merge the properties and open it to the public, all homes had to be similar in upgrades.

Colt nodded toward the side of the house. “I didn’t bring my car.”

Walking ahead of him, Annabelle rounded the house and stopped. “You’ve got to be kidding me?”

Colt shook his head. “She needed a walk, so we’re taking him.”

Annabelle stood next to Lightning and glared his way. “I’m not riding with you.”

Glancing around, he held his arms out, palms up. “I don’t see another horse. Do you have one?”

Her lips thinned. He knew damn well she had no animals. Her father had sold them all.

“I seriously hate you,” she murmured.

Yeah, he got that. But Colt also saw how she looked at him. She may hate his actions, but she appreciated him as a man and he was more than fine with that. Keeping things physical would assure that everything stayed simple.

When he stepped forward to help her up, she shot him a stare that could’ve frozen hell over. He held up his hands to signal that he was backing off.

Hands on her hips, Annabelle stared at the horse as if weighing her options. She had none really.

“I’ll just drive,” she told him.

“That wasn’t part of our deal. Get on the horse.”

Her hand went to the reins. “Do you ever ask people nicely?”

“I can be very nice, Annabelle.” He stepped closer. His hand covered hers as her eyes widened. “Get on the horse or I’ll be forced to assist you like the gentleman my father raised.”

She pulled her hand from beneath his and let out a mock laugh, hoisting herself up onto the horse. “I haven’t met your brothers, but you are certainly no gentleman.”

Colt slid his foot through the stirrup and settled in right behind Annabelle. Her backside was nestled between his thighs and he was starting to question his own motives. He’d wanted this alone time. He’d purposely made this stipulation so he could use these moments to seduce her. The concept of riding the horse developed after the deal had been made.

Colt had no idea he’d lose grip on his power. He never thought she’d be the one seducing him...and she didn’t even have a clue.

The last woman he’d let have control over his emotions had left him mentally scarred and jaded. Colt pushed aside thoughts of his ex and reached around Annabelle to grab the reins. Her entire body tensed.

“Relax.” He snapped the straps lightly, sending Lightning into motion. “We’re just going next door.”

Which would take several minutes because of the expansive fields between their properties, and he had every intention of taking the scenic route.

“Why are you heading toward the back of the property?” she asked.

Strands from her ponytail blew in the breeze, tickling the side of his neck. Images of that hair spread all over him assaulted his mind. The floral scent from her shampoo or soap assaulted his senses. She shouldn’t smell like heaven, shouldn’t have the ability to affect him without saying a word.

“You’ve only seen this land from your side,” he explained. “I’m going to familiarize you with Pebblebrook.”

“I thought I was just going to be in the barns cleaning horse sh—”

“Oh, you will,” he laughed. She truly despised him, yet there was a fine line between lust and hate. He’d wear her down. “There will be times you’ll accompany me in the fields and you need to know the area. With five thousand acres, it’s easy to get turned around. But you’ll be working directly with me every day.”

Her shoulders slumped. The movement was slight, but being this close, he was attuned to every aspect of her.

“And what happens at the end?” Her voice was so low, almost defeated. “You’re just going to give the property back and play hero for saving the day?”

“I’m not a hero.” Her body rocked back and forth against his as he murmured into her ear. There was no way he was going to answer that question outright. “I do have motives, but we don’t have to talk about that right now.”

Annabelle jerked around. “I knew you weren’t doing any of this out of the kindness of your black heart.”

Facing the open fields once again, she asked, “So why this game with my father?”

“I’m not a complete bastard, Annabelle.” Though some would say otherwise. “I’m giving your father a chance to redeem himself. I don’t think he can, but everyone deserves a second chance.”

“You weren’t expecting me to come home.”

“A minor glitch, but a pleasant surprise,” he replied as he neared the fence line separating the two properties.

“This isn’t a game, Colt.” She glanced back over her shoulder, her deep green eyes piercing his. “You’re playing with our lives, my dreams.”

His father had dreams as well, and Colt was going to see them through no matter what sultry beauty stood in his way. Business first, seduction second—and nothing else mattered.

“I’m fully aware of the stakes,” he informed her. “I have a vision, too.”

“To toy with people’s lives and count your money?”

He couldn’t blame her for being angry. He’d feel the same if he were in her position. But he’d never let himself get into this predicament. His land was his life. From the time he was a toddler with his first set of boots and shiny belt buckle, he knew ranching was the only future he wanted. His brothers all set out in different paths, but Colt wanted to stay right here. And yes, money was a nice byproduct of the lifestyle he loved so much.

All the Elliott boys had grown up with a rather lavish lifestyle. They were all doing what they loved, but they’d also been handed a handsome inheritance when their grandfather passed away. Still, regardless of their last name, they worked hard and played hard.

“You aren’t the only one with goals,” he stated as he steered Lighting toward his brother’s house, settled in the back of the property. “That log home back there is Nolan’s.”

She may not care about his family, but she was going to be working for him and he took his ranch very seriously. At the end of the day, regardless of the fact he wanted her physically, she would have to do the job he hired her for.

When she remained silent, he kept going. “He’s the oldest. He’ll help occasionally, but he’s a surgeon so his time is limited.”

“He sounds nice.”

Colt agreed, even though her comment was a jab at him. “I have another brother, Hayes. He’s in the army.”

“Wow. Two brothers who give back and help others, then you who steal. We haven’t even discussed your movie star brother.”

Colt swallowed. “My twin, Beau. He rarely comes home. Ranch life was never for him.”

Beau and Colt never saw eye to eye on most things, but they had a special bond. Colt loved Beau, even though he wished he would’ve stuck around. Apparently fame was more important than family.

“Sounds like they made wiser life decisions.”

Colt had developed thick skin over the years. He couldn’t be in the ranching industry and not toughen up. But he wasn’t about to sit there and have her question his integrity or his purpose.

“My grandfather built the first house on Pebblebrook, the one Hayes lives in when he’s home. Then he passed this land down to my father who ended up building the house I live in. We all work hard, Annabelle. We do what we love, we make good money, and that’s nothing to be sorry for.”

Once again, those green eyes turned to him. “No, you have plenty of other things to be sorry for.”

Perhaps he did. Maybe he was no better than her father who’d put her in this position. Colt didn’t want to expose his reasons for paying the loan. The fact she knew he had a motive was enough for now. A wise businessman never showed his entire hand from the get-go.

Annabelle hated him, that was definitely no secret. But he wasn’t backing down. Not on the land and certainly not on the woman.

Four

Annabelle absolutely loathed being on this horse with Colt. Well, her body enjoyed the ride, but that physical reaction didn’t mean a thing. So what if his body fit perfectly against hers? So what if his voice tickled her ear and sent shivers through her? She could handle that. She had bigger issues to deal with than her body’s unwanted reaction.

Colt seemed like such a normal guy in some ways. When he discussed his family there was such love, such adoration. The love and adoration she had for her own family had been shattered, broken, and she was left to pick up the shards and attempt to piece them back together.

The twins were the one bright spot in all of this chaos. They were precious, innocent, and Annabelle intended to keep them protected from the worries she faced. They would have a stable family life, maybe not the traditional family she longed for, but what was traditional these days?

Circling back to her more lustful thoughts, Annabelle couldn’t ignore the tingle each time his body rocked against hers. That broad, strong chest would brush her back, his muscular forearms aligning with hers. His tanned skin to her pale. They were completely opposite in every way imaginable.

Colt Elliott was a gorgeous man, there was no denying that fact. He was also arrogant, frustrating, and the bane of her existence.

“I’m sorry to hear about your sister.” Colt’s words broke through her thoughts, and he actually sounded sincere. “I know you don’t want to hear it from me, but losing a family member is hard.”

Harder when there was betrayal involved.

She didn’t want his pity or his kind words. She couldn’t afford to accept that there may be a nice bone in his body. “I’m more concerned with my father and how he will handle the loss.”

“That’s why you came back?”

Annabelle swallowed. “One of the reasons. My fiancé and I had plans, but...”

She was so not getting into this with him. She didn’t want to talk about how her entire life had blown up in her face over the past few months. The only bright spots were Emily and Lucy, and everything Annabelle did from here on out was for those sweet angels.

“I didn’t realize you were engaged.”

Pain pierced her heart, but not necessarily because she thought he’d been the one. Looking back now she realized she wasn’t in love with him so much as the idea of being in love. She wanted to be a wife and mother, come back to Stone River and open her bed-and-breakfast.

She’d always wondered about fulfilling her mother’s dream, but over the past year, she’d decided to just go for it. Yet now she was stuck in an arrangement with Colt, who, despite massive personality flaws, had more sex appeal than should be legal. Annabelle had to get her life back on track. She couldn’t handle this lack of control and uncertainty.

“My fiancé is no longer in the picture.”

Even with the bright morning sun beating down on them, she shivered. The pain, the loss, the trust she’d once had in people she loved was all too much. This topic wasn’t bearable.

“How many acres did you say you have?”

“Just over five thousand. There are three homes, mine, Nolan’s, and Hayes’s, for when he’s stateside. We have seven ponds and eight barns.”

Pebblebrook was like a city in itself. Annabelle would be lying if she didn’t admit that she was jealous. Not that she wanted a large spread like this, she’d be so content with getting her bed-and-breakfast up and running. Still, she was envious that Colt had known exactly what he’d wanted, apparently from the time he was a kid, and had accomplished it all. Granted, the majority had been handed to him, but Colt had stepped up as part of the new generation to lead the ranch to the next level and beyond.

Anger bubbled within her. He had it all and he still wanted more. She wasn’t about to go down without a fight. The bed-and-breakfast, her childhood home, was all she had to make something of her life and to secure a stable future for Emily and Lucy. So whatever he had in his head about her land, he could think again.

“Do you plan on taking me back and forth several times a day?” she asked, glancing back at him.

She hated looking over her shoulder because each time she did, she saw that sexy scruff along his jawline and those striking blue eyes. Not to mention the movement pressed her lower half deeper into the V of his thighs. It was like this man was created to drive her out of her ever-loving mind.

And she couldn’t forget the fact she’d seen him sans shirt. Like that was an image she’d ever forget. Colt Elliott had embedded himself in her deepest fantasies...not that he would ever know.

“If I’m not around, I will have Ryan or Josh take you. They are my most trusted employees.”

“It’s a ride home, Colt.”

His bright blue eyes zeroed in on hers, then dropped to her lips for the briefest of seconds. “They’re both married.”

“Just because they’re married doesn’t mean they’re committed,” she countered, hating the bitterness in her tone. “And I can take care of myself. I’m working for you, I’m not a little sister you need to watch over.”

A corner of his mouth kicked up in a naughty grin that had her toes curling in her boots. “Considering my thoughts, it’s best we aren’t related in any way.”

Annabelle jerked back around, her heart beating double time in her chest. “You aren’t going to flirt with me, Colt. I’m here to make sure those payments are made on time and I get to keep my house. So whatever it is you’re thinking, keep it to yourself.”

“But you’d enjoy every one of my thoughts,” he whispered in her ear.

The brush of his lips along her cheek sent tremors racing through her. How could she hate him and be so turned on at the same time? This man stood in the way of her only chance at a stable future.

No, her father had stood in the way, Colt was just an extra hurdle she had to jump. She really didn’t want to be one of those bitter, scorned women, but every man in her life had let her down. Why the hell would she expect any different from her new employer?

Besides, he was just trying to throw her off her game. And, damn it, it was working. She had to be sharper from here on out...and he needed to keep his shirt on.

“Let’s just stick to business,” she suggested as they neared a massive two-story barn.

She forced herself not to gape at the large stone archway that led into the tunnel where the horses were kept. The wide planked sides were weathered, but in that deliberate, expensive way. A smaller door up top no doubt led to the hayloft.

Annabelle couldn’t help but wonder how many women Colt and his sexy, Southern charms had seduced up into that romantic space. She vowed not to be one of them. She wasn’t naive. She knew he looked at her with interest, but she and her fiancé hadn’t even consummated their relationship, and she sure as hell wasn’t going to let Colt Elliott charm her into bed.

“These are the stables for our older horses. We have two mares and three stallions housed here. Ryan tends to oversee this group.”

A man in a fitted plaid shirt stepped through the doorway, leading a gorgeous black stallion by the reins.

Colt steered Lightning toward the barn. As they neared, the forty-something man turned toward them.

“Ryan, this is Annabelle Carter,” Colt said. “She’s going to be working with me for the foreseeable future.”

“Ma’am.” Ryan nodded with the tip of his hat. “Pleasure to meet you. Colt, the engineer called earlier and needs you to call when you get a chance.”

“I’ll do it this afternoon,” Colt replied.

Every time he spoke, the rumble in his chest vibrated against her back. There was something entirely too intimate about this situation. The way she fit so perfectly between his thighs, the way her body heated that had nothing to do with the sun, the way he looked at her mouth like he wanted to devour her.

And she knew without a doubt he’d methodically planned this mode of transportation and made it nonnegotiable just so he could annoy her further. Added to that, he must be well respected because his employee didn’t bat an eye at the sight of the new recruit and the way she’d arrived on the scene.

“Also, Monte from the feed store called and our truckload will arrive around two this afternoon.”

“We’ll unload it in the barn on the west side. Make sure to tell Josh. We need all hands for that.”

Ryan nodded once again and tugged on the reins of his horse. “Nice to meet you, ma’am.”

He climbed onto the stallion and headed around the side of the barn.

“He seems nice. It’s strange how the two of you get along.”

“You’re hurting my feelings, Belle.”

She cringed. “Don’t call me that.”

“What do you prefer? Annabelle suits you, but it’s a mouthful. Besides, I want my own name for you.”

“Ms. Carter would work fine. Or, you don’t have to refer to me at all.”

That low chuckle sent even more tremors through her, causing her body to respond in ways she did not want where Colt was concerned.

“Oh, come on now, Belle. That’s no way to start your first workday.”

Fisting her hands on the horn of the smooth saddle, Annabelle forced herself to take calm, deep breaths. “I offered to get a different job, I’d prefer a different job, actually. I just needed some time to start getting a paycheck.”

“I can give you time, but then you’d lose your land.”

“Isn’t that your ultimate goal anyway? To see my father and me fail? I’m not naive, Colt. I figure you want our property for something.”

“I don’t like to see anyone fail,” he corrected as he led them toward the front of the property. “But if I’m going to be in a fight, I want it to be fair so my victory is that much sweeter.”

A fight. She had to remember that’s exactly what this was with him. She was fighting for her life, her future.

All she’d wanted was to take her meager savings and start minor renovations on her house to bring it up to par for her dream.

But then life had intervened. Her sister and fiancé were taken away, Annabelle found herself an instant mother to twin babies, and her father had ultimately failed her when she’d needed him most.

She wasn’t going to fail him, though. He was hurting. He’d lost his daughter, was trapped in his own hell with his addiction, and Annabelle would fight to the death if necessary to keep her family safe. She would make a home for Emily and Lucy, take back her land, and see the B and B come to fruition. Anything less was not an option.

Colt Elliott may have knocked her down a peg, but she was determined to fling him off his podium.

* * *

Colt’s shoulders burned, his arms strained as he hoisted the last bag of feed onto the pile he and Ryan had created. Josh had been taking loads and dispersing them to other barns.

And Annabelle had been holding her own. Sweat had her little tank clinging to her back. Damp tendrils of hair had escaped her ponytail and were now plastered against her neck. She’d gone home for lunch and had returned just before the shipment had arrived. He’d been busy and asked Ryan to take her and bring her back...using the truck.

But there was no way he was missing an opportunity to deliver her back home. They’d worked hard and he was utterly exhausted. He could only imagine how she felt as someone who wasn’t used to this type of work every day.

He had a walk-in shower with three rain heads and jetted sprays waiting on him. Not to mention a bottle of bourbon he’d just acquired from a special selection that had been aging in a barrel for decades. He loved his contacts in Kentucky.

Guilt nipped at his conscience. When Annabelle went home, she had two babies to take care of and he highly doubted she took any downtime for herself.

Annabelle continued stacking boxes from the pallets into the corner of the barn. She didn’t once stop to look his way, didn’t say a word, and didn’t complain. She was already a better employee than the stable hand he’d fired last week...only she wasn’t a regular employee. She was there under duress, against everything she wanted.

Part of him wanted to tell her to go, to let her father handle the mess he’d made, but he knew she wouldn’t go for that. She was too proud, too loyal to her family. She’d lost her sister and her father had completely let her down. And from her tone when she’d briefly mentioned her fiancé, he’d let her down, too. Colt had to assume the man was the twins’ father, but he honestly had no clue...and it wasn’t his right to ask.

The more tidbits into her life he discovered and pieced together, the more admiration he had for her. “That’s the last of it,” Ryan stated.

Colt pulled his hat off, swiped his forehead with his arm and turned to Ryan. “Go ahead and take off. I’ll finish up here.”

“Want me to give her a lift on my way out?” Ryan asked, nodding toward Annabelle on the other end of the barn.

“I’ll take care of her, as well.”

Ryan eyed Colt and he knew what was coming.

“Don’t say it.”

Ryan merely shrugged. “Someone needs to. You’re playing with fire.”

Oh, he sure as hell hoped so. Was there any other way to play a game of seduction?

“I know what I’m doing.”

Ryan’s brows lifted. “Do you? Because your father may have had a vision, but he wouldn’t have put someone through this just to gain the land.”

Colt jerked his work gloves off and shoved them into his back pocket. “Which is why she’ll be with me. I won’t let her do more than she’s capable of.”

“Did you know her hand was bleeding?” Ryan asked.

Colt jerked his attention toward her once again. “What?”

“When I walked by earlier, she was wiping her hand on her pants and I saw blood. She’d torn her work gloves.”

Damn stubborn woman wouldn’t ask for help no matter what.

“I got her another pair,” Ryan went on. “But I have a gut feeling she’d fall over before she came to one of us for help.”

That she would. Colt raked a hand over the back of his neck and nodded. “I’ll make sure that doesn’t happen again.”

“That land is going to be yours regardless,” Ryan added in a low whisper. “Why don’t you just let her go?”

Reasons he couldn’t even explain. When she’d shown up yesterday morning and literally busted through his ranch, he hadn’t been able to take his eyes off her. He’d always gone after what he wanted—livestock, business deals, employees...women.

Annabelle Carter was a total game changer.

Colt kept his eyes on Annabelle as she stacked her last box. Guilt slammed into him when she pulled off her glove and examined her hand.

Without glancing at Ryan, Colt said, “See you in the morning.”

His trusted worker wisely walked away. Colt moved across the cobblestone walkway, closing the distance between him and Annabelle.

“Why didn’t you tell me you were hurt?”

She spun around, clearly startled. “I’m fine.”

With a hand to her chest, she tipped that defiant chin. Damn if he didn’t want to kiss her. That fire in her eyes dared him to come closer, so Colt took a step forward until they were toe to toe. He’d never backed down from a challenge and Annabelle was one fight he was enjoying...except for her injury.

Colt gently curled his fingers around her wrist and pulled her hand out so he could examine it. She had a nasty blister that had been worked too hard.

“I have a first aid kit in the office.”

When he met her eyes, he was surprised anger didn’t look back at him. If anything, he saw desire. Interesting...and useful. Passion left people weak and he’d definitely home in on that.

Annabelle blinked, as if she realized she’d been caught staring at him. Pulling her hand back, she held it against her chest once again.

“I’ll take care of it when I get home. I need to start dinner.”

“The hell you say?” He hadn’t meant to shout, but was she kidding? “You’ve worked all day.”

Annabelle let out a humorless laugh. “Well, Colt, in the real world people work, make their own meals and tend to their families. We all can’t live the life of luxury and sit back, living the dream.”

Is that how she saw him? He’d worked his ass off taking over this ranch when his father had fallen ill. He’d poured more blood, sweat and tears into this land than any male in the Elliott family. Being the youngest, he always felt the need to prove himself, especially against his brothers. How the hell could he compete with a surgeon, a war hero and a Hollywood star? He was a damn rancher. A billionaire, but still a man who wore dusty boots, a worn hat that had been his father’s, and holey jeans.

“You can take two minutes and let me clean that wound up.”

When she stifled a yawn with her good hand, he muttered a curse and stomped off to get the first aid kit. Why did she have to be so stubborn and why did he have to find her even more attractive because of it?

By the time he came back, she’d taken a seat on one of the heavy wooden benches between the stone stalls. Her lids were lower and she seemed to have finally run out of steam. Perfect. Then she wouldn’t be able to argue with him.

“You work harder than nearly any man I know,” he told her, opening the kit.

“Does that mean I get a raise?” she asked, leaning her head against the wall behind her.

Colt laughed as he placed her hand in his palm. He swiped around the perimeter of the cut with an alcohol pad, careful not to get near the wound. He blew on her hand to dry the moisture. When she trembled, he glanced up to find her eyes on his. That shade of green never failed to kick him in the gut. She could pierce a man with that stare and have him wound in her web so fast, he’d have no idea he was caught until it was too late.

“I know you hate me, but you really shouldn’t be fighting your father’s battles.”

A sad smile crossed her face. “Isn’t that what family is all about? When one is weak, others stand up and take the lead. We’re all we have left. My mother passed when Trish and I were younger. Now that Trish is gone...”

She shook her head and he wanted to know so much more. When he’d wanted a woman in the past, he’d never asked personal information. Backstory had no place in the bedroom. He had to remember that here because he could so easily let this niggle of guilt guide his emotions.

He had a goal. He had a vision he would see to the end, to honor his father, to prove to his brothers he wasn’t just playing cowboy and to prove to himself he could do it. The dude ranch was only one more business deal away...he just had to get past this fiery vixen to make that vision a reality.

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