A cowboy...and so much more

Potter Sapphire Ferguson had one rule: no more artists. There have been too many disappointments and too many heartbreaks. That is, until she sees wildlife metal artist Grady Magee welding a sculpture of wolves, and Sapphire’s self-control is completely incinerated. Whoa, Nellie. A cowboy with an artist’s soul...and a hard, sexy body. How can she resist?

Sapphire tells herself it’s just sex—incredibly and unbelievably intense sex—between two consenting adults. No love and no getting hurt. Except that Grady isn’t just an artist. He was raised at Thunder Mountain Ranch, and he’s all cowboy. He’s playing for keeps...and he’ll have to prove to Sapphire that he can have an artist’s soul and a cowboy’s heart.

Praise for Vicki Lewis Thompson

“Thompson continues to do what she does best, tying together strong family values bound by blood and choice, interspersed with the more sizzling aspects of the relationship.”

—RT Book Reviews on Thunderstruck

“All the characters, background stories and character development are positively stellar; the warm family feeling is not saccharine-sweet, but heartfelt and genuine, and Lexi and Cade’s rekindled romance is believable from beginning to end, along with the classy, sexy and tender love scenes.”

—Fresh Fiction on Midnight Thunder

“Intensely romantic and hot enough to singe...her Sons of Chance series never fails to leave me worked up from all the heat, and then sighing with pleasure at the happy endings!”

—We Read Romance on Riding High

“If I had to use one word to describe Ambushed! it would be charming... Where the story shines and how it is elevated above others is the humor that is woven throughout.”

—Dear Author

“The chemistry between Molly and Ben is off the charts: their first kiss is one of the best I’ve ever read, and the sex is blistering and yet respectful, tender and loving.”

—Fresh Fiction on A Last Chance Christmas

“Cowboy Up is a sexy joy ride, balanced with good-natured humor and Thompson’s keen eye for detail. Another sizzling romance from the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award winner for best Blaze.”

—RT Book Reviews

Dear Reader,

Oh, those Magee brothers! In Cowboy After Dark, I fell in love with Liam and figured his younger brother Grady couldn’t possibly be as endearing. Was I ever wrong! Please don’t ask me to pick my favorite Magee brother. I doubt you’ll be able to, either, after you meet Grady, the cowboy turned metal artist. I guarantee he’s hotter than a blowtorch!

Like Sapphire Ferguson, I have a weakness for creative men because they’re creative in...well, everything they do, if you get my meaning. Grady’s sculptures of majestic creatures like eagles and wolves are crafted with recycled metal, which makes him both artistic and ecologically aware! Not only that, but he gets hot and sweaty doing it. Sculpting, that is. What did you think I was talking about?

Okay, I don’t blame you for going there. The minute you get a glimpse of this tall cowboy with his muscles and slightly shaggy haircut, you’ll be ready to trade places with Sapphire. And when you find out Grady’s plan to make a sculpture for Rosie, his foster mom, your heart is gonna melt.

Welcome back to the Thunder Mountain Brotherhood! This amazing band of men each experienced a tragedy that landed them in foster care, but they were all lucky enough to find a home with Rosie and Herb at Thunder Mountain Ranch. Their days at the ranch taught them the cowboy way and forged an enduring bond, although love doesn’t come easily to guys with emotional scars. Join me for another story featuring the awesome cowboys who call themselves the Thunder Mountain Brotherhood!

Creatively yours,

Cowboy Untamed
Vicki Lewis Thompson

www.millsandboon.co.uk

A passion for travel has taken New York Times bestselling author VICKI LEWIS THOMPSON to Europe, Great Britain, the Greek isles, Australia and New Zealand. She’s visited most of North America and has her eye on South America’s rain forests. Africa, India and China beckon. But her first love is her home state of Arizona, with its deserts, mountains, sunsets and—last but not least—cowboys! The wide-open spaces and heroes on horseback influence everything she writes. Connect with her at vickilewisthompson.com, Facebook.com/vickilewisthompson and Twitter.com/vickilthompson.

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To visual artists—dedicated souls who enrich our lives by allowing us to see the world through their eyes.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Praise for Vicki Lewis Thompson

Dear Reader

Title Page

About the Author

Dedication

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Epilogue

Extract

Copyright

1

A WYOMING SUNSET tinged the horizon pale orange, reminding Grady Magee of the Dreamsicles he used to crave as a kid. But thoughts of adult pleasures nudged out childhood nostalgia as he parked his truck in front of the Sheridan Art Barn next to a grape-colored pickup, the only other vehicle in the lot. It likely belonged to Sapphire Ferguson, the woman who’d been on his mind during most of the long drive from Cody.

Three weeks ago during a visit to Thunder Mountain Ranch, he’d come by here with his foster brother Cade to pick up some local art for Cade’s new cabin. Sapphire, a talented potter, had been minding the store. He’d barely recognized her.

The quiet girl he remembered from high school had morphed into a confident woman with a smoldering glance that set him on fire. When she’d asked him to headline a charity event featuring artists creating work on the spot, he’d set aside his packed schedule and agreed without finding out what the charity was. Didn’t matter.

Hauling his tools and materials from Cody and setting up a studio in a corner of this renovated barn was a pain in the ass. He didn’t care. Sapphire had his attention. While honing his welding skills in Alaska and dreaming of making a living with recycled metal art, he’d also dreamed of the kind of woman he’d want to share his life with.

She’d be a self-starter, imaginative, bold and sensual. Good looks wouldn’t hurt but sexual chemistry was more important. Getting both would be a bonus. In short, the woman of his dreams was a lot like Sapphire Ferguson. Maybe his first impression would turn out to be wrong. Or maybe she already had someone in her life.

His gut told him she didn’t. She wasn’t wearing a ring and she’d acted as fascinated with him as he’d been with her. Since then, they’d communicated only through brief phone texts because they’d both battled crazy deadlines. He could be imagining the hum of sexual energy underlying those texts, but he didn’t think so.

He climbed out of his truck with that same energy fizzing in his veins. She’d agreed to meet him and help him get his stuff unloaded, but he hadn’t counted on being alone with her. Eight other artists were part of the co-op Sapphire had organized, each claiming one of the renovated stalls as both a work and display space. He’d expected some of them to be around.

Apparently, they weren’t as manic about working as he was. He put in long hours, both because he loved it and because the commissions kept coming and he didn’t like making customers wait. His brother Liam had reminded him that building a successful career in less than three years was unusual and few artists made a living, let alone a good living.

Grady believed him, although he didn’t have much to go on. He’d used the nest egg he’d saved during his pipeline job to keep him afloat while he followed his dream. His first sculptures had sold like hotcakes and after that he’d been so busy keeping up with the demand that he’d had no time to hang out with other artists.

Spending time with Sapphire was his primary motivation for doing the charity event, but he also looked forward to conversations with other creative types. Not to say he was disappointed that he and Sapphire were alone tonight. Fraternizing with the other co-op members could wait.

He’d started toward the double-door entrance when he heard a woman’s soft voice coming from somewhere to the right of the barn. He couldn’t make out the words, but from the sound of it she really liked the person she was talking to. He paused to listen. Maybe he had this all wrong and the grape-colored pickup had brought two people here—Sapphire and her boyfriend. That would suck.

Standing very still, he listened for a response, a deeper murmur that would indicate she was with a guy. Nothing. He edged closer so he could make out what she was saying.

“Come on, Fred,” she crooned. “You know you want this.”

Dear God. If Sapphire was about to have sex with someone named Fred up against the side of the barn, he did not want to be here. Yeah, he’d arrived a little earlier than planned because he’d broken a few speed limits on the way. She might not be expecting him for another hour.

“You liked it last night, remember? Don’t be shy.”

Grady squeezed his eyes shut. This couldn’t be happening. He’d pinned his hopes on Sapphire being available, yet he’d had no proof of that. If he stayed here much longer, he’d find out exactly how misguided his assumptions were.

Better to quietly climb back into his truck and slowly exit the parking lot. If they were about to get busy, they wouldn’t hear him drive away. He’d grab a cup of coffee in the diner.

“There you go. Isn’t that nice?”

Yikes. He took a slow step backward, then another.

“Such a good boy. Such a brave kitty-cat.”

Kitty-cat? He froze. No man with an ounce of self-respect would let a woman call him kitty-cat. And now that he thought about it, no straight guy would need coaxing in order to have sex with a woman like Sapphire.

He crept to the corner of the building to take a look and discovered Sapphire crouched in the dry grass, the golden glow of the sunset igniting sparks of fire in her long auburn hair. She’d placed several bowls in a semicircle around her and he counted eleven cats munching away. Instead of having sex, she was feeding strays.

He sighed in relief. The sound wasn’t loud but it caught everyone’s attention. Sapphire and all eleven cats looked at him. A black cat with white markings backed away from the dish. “Sorry,” Grady muttered.

She kept her voice low. “You’re early.”

“Traffic was light.”

“You’d better not come any closer. I’d like Fred to eat some more.”

“Fred.” He swallowed so he wouldn’t laugh and spook the cats.

“Fred Astaire. The tuxedo. He’s the most skittish of the bunch but I’m making progress with him.”

Grady had never heard anyone refer to a cat as a tuxedo but it was a great description. The white patch on Fred’s chest made him look as if he’d dressed for the Oscars.

All the cats went back to eating except Fred. Hunkered down, eyes wide and pupils dilated, he stared at Grady. His whiskers, white to match his chest, trembled.

“He won’t hurt you, sweetie.” Sapphire’s voice dripped honey as she spoke to the cat. “The food’s yum-yum-yummy, kitty-cat. You know you want some. Come on, come and get it.”

Her words seemed to have no effect on Fred but they were having a definite effect on Grady. After three weeks of erotic dreams featuring her in the lead role, he was a hot mess of raging hormones. Listening to her woo the cat was initiating action below his belt. She’d told him to stay put but that could prove embarrassing if she kept up this seductive murmur. Sure, she was addressing a cat, but he had no trouble imagining her using that same tone during sex. The longer he stood there, the larger his problem grew, so to speak.

He couldn’t very well tell her that. “Maybe I should move so Fred can’t see me.” He hoped she hadn’t heard the telltale huskiness in his voice.

“That might help.” Fortunately, she didn’t glance over at him. “I’ll be finished in a few minutes.”

“I’ll meet you out front.” He began a slow retreat, wincing at the pressure of his zipper against his pride and joy.

“Okay.” She went back to sweet-talking Fred.

He did his best to block the sound as he ducked out of sight and made the painful journey to his truck. Bracing both hands on the hood, he took several deep breaths. Anyone would think he was some horny teenager.

Normally, he didn’t have this issue. He thought back to the last woman he’d dated and was shocked to realize they’d broken up more than a year ago. Time flew when you were making art. She’d never understood his preoccupation with his work and they’d fought about it enough times that they’d decided to call it quits last July.

Okay, so he hadn’t been in bed with a woman for a long time and now he’d found someone so hot that he’d fixated on her for weeks. That could explain his sudden stiffy. He felt a little better about his reaction, although he’d have to watch himself to make sure he didn’t come across as sex starved.

Turning around, he leaned his butt against the truck and adjusted himself. Better now. He repositioned his new Stetson so it sat more firmly on his head. Liam had talked him into buying it to fit his image as a celebrated Western artist and it was the most expensive one he’d ever owned—black with a silver-and-turquoise hatband. Naturally, Liam had insisted such a hat deserved a new pair of boots, also black, with fancy stitching. Grady had worn them to make a good impression but he’d brought his old scuffed ones to work in.

He had two projects in mind. First he would put together a nice sculpture for his foster mom, Rosie Padgett. She and his foster dad, Herb, had welcomed Grady and Liam to Thunder Mountain Ranch ten years ago when their mom’s car accident had left her unable to care for a couple of rowdy teens. Last month Rosie had hinted to Liam that she’d love a sculpture, and Grady had come up with a great idea for the design.

Creating Rosie’s gift would help him settle into the workspace, so he’d be ready to put on a performance for the charity night. He’d come up with a sketch for that one, too, and it was a piece he could finish within the three hours allotted to the event. Sapphire planned to have a silent auction for his contribution and she hoped to raise a lot of money.

He really should find out what the charity was. His sculpture should relate to the cause in some way, and just because he liked the cougar he’d sketched, didn’t mean it would work with the evening’s theme. He’d ask Sapphire about that when she finished feeding the stray cats. It was possible she’d told him and the information hadn’t registered, because he’d been so focused on her.

Nudging his hat back with his thumb, he gazed up as the first stars blinked on. They weren’t as bright in town as they were out at the ranch. Much as he’d love to stay with his foster parents during his time in Sheridan, it wasn’t practical.

Thunder Mountain Academy, a new venture that involved teaching high school kids about everything related to horses, was in its last week of the summer session. The cabins that had once housed foster boys were now filled with teens enrolled in the program. Grady would only be in the way, so he’d accepted an offer to stay in town with Ben and Molly Radcliffe.

Ben had made saddles for just about everyone Grady knew in Sheridan, including his foster parents. Molly was Cade Gallagher’s cousin, although Grady hadn’t quite worked out the details of that connection. It had something to do with the well-known Chance brothers in Jackson Hole. In any case, Molly and Ben were part of the Thunder Mountain Ranch extended family and they were happy to let him use their guest room.

He’d warned them he didn’t know when he’d show up. Unloading his equipment and materials had to come first. At least, that was how he’d rationalized stopping at the Art Barn to meet with Sapphire. Technically, he could have driven over to Molly and Ben’s tonight and brought his supplies here in the morning.

Yet when he’d suggested stopping by tonight to drop them off, Sapphire had readily agreed. Her eagerness had fired up his imagination, and discovering that she was here alone added to the anticipation. He wondered if she’d had dinner. He ran through the restaurant options and decided to suggest his favorite bar because it had live music and a dance floor.

“That takes care of that.” Sapphire rounded the corner of the barn holding a stack of bowls. “I thought I’d be done before you got here.”

He pushed himself away from the truck and walked toward her. “No worries. Do you feed them every night?” She looked even prettier than he remembered—wavy auburn hair pulled back on one side with an elaborate silver comb, exotic earrings that dangled to her shoulders, a low-cut peasant blouse and a brightly patterned skirt that reminded him of gypsies.

“We feed them every night and every morning. We rotate weeks and this happens to be mine.” She tipped her head toward the double doors at the entrance. “Come on in. I need to wash these and then I’ll help you unload your equipment.”

“Thanks. That would be great.” He caught the spicy scent of her perfume, the same one she’d worn when they’d met three weeks ago. He breathed it in and all his hopes and dreams came flooding back. “So everyone pitches in to feed the strays?” He wondered if she liked to dance. Even if she wasn’t much for dancing, they could get out on the floor and do the shuffle-and-sway routine to a slow tune so he could hold her.

“They’re not exactly strays. Can you please catch the door for me?”

“Sure thing.” He hurried to do it, berating himself as he slid the barn door open. He’d been so busy making plans for tonight that he’d forgotten his manners.

“You can check out the new pieces on display while I wash these.”

“You have a sink?”

“During the renovation we put in a small bathroom and a tiny kitchen.” She gestured toward the row of stalls. “Go ahead and look around. I left on the lights so you could see the new stuff. Everyone’s getting ready for the big weekend. Lots of good work.”

“Sounds great, but I’d be glad to help you with the cat dishes.” Even in high school he’d been fascinated by her turquoise eyes. He’d never asked her out, because he’d been busy denying his own artistic leanings. He’d had a feeling she could see who he really was and he hadn’t been ready to acknowledge that yet.

She smiled. “It’s a one-person job. Go ahead and browse.”

“Okay.” But he sure hated to leave those eyes and that smile. He thought about both as he walked down the aisle between the stalls. Although he glanced at the artwork along the way, all he really cared about tonight was Sapphire’s pottery.

Three weeks ago Cade had bought a vase of hers that Grady would have given his eyeteeth for. But the trip had been for Cade and so he’d scored the vase. Grady was curious as to what else she’d added to her collection since then.

Her display was conveniently located next to the large stall that would be his for the next several days. He stepped into the space and sucked in a breath. During his first visit here he’d noticed the sensuality of her work, and the newest pieces were even more dramatic, especially her dinnerware set.

The saturated colors and undulating lines of the single place setting made him wonder what sort of orgy the two of them could have with food served on these dishes. Picking up a red bowl with a dark purple interior, he cradled it in both hands and ran his thumb over the pebbled rim. The bowl was a tactile and visual feast.

Her potter’s wheel stood in the corner ready for the next project, and he wanted to be there to see if her expression while creating was as passionate as the work itself. If she’d had an erotic nature back in high school, he’d totally missed the clues.

Not surprising. He’d been an insecure idiot back then, but he’d changed and so had she. He’d embraced his true calling and had finally realized that testosterone and art weren’t mutually exclusive. Obviously, she’d grown out of her timid phase.

“That collection’s new.”

He turned to find her standing in the opening that used to be the stall door. He’d been absorbed in his plans and hadn’t heard her footsteps. “It’s sexy.”

“You’re not the first person who seems to feel that way.” Her gaze met his and for a moment there was a flash of heat. Then she looked away and studied the colorful dinnerware. “I put that place setting out yesterday and I can already tell it startles people.”

“Why?” His blood warmed as he registered the interest he’d seen in her eyes. This could turn into an excellent evening.

“The colors seem to make them nervous. They’re also thrown for a loop when I explain that each place setting’s slightly different. Most people expect their dinner dishes to match. It’ll take a certain kind of customer.”

Like me. But buying her pottery right off the bat might brand him as a suck-up. He would get some eventually and, if everything turned out the way he’d like it to, they’d enjoy a meal together, preferably naked.

He gestured toward the wheel. “You obviously work here.”

“Yep. I visualized this as a combination studio and gallery from the beginning. Not everyone spends as much time here as I do, but I love it. The concrete floor is easy to clean and nobody cares if it gets stained. I have a kiln out back. Best conditions I’ve ever had.”

“The venue makes a difference.” He glanced at the large stall where he’d be setting up. “Looks like we’ll be neighbors.”

“Uh-huh. I like being in the back. Earlier this summer I considered moving into what’ll be your space but I didn’t, which is a good thing. Ready to unload your truck?”

“You bet.” He set the bowl down with great care. His work was nearly indestructible but hers could be a victim of gravity. He didn’t want that on his conscience.

He hauled in the big stuff—odd pieces of scrap metal and unusual gears and machine parts that he scavenged from anywhere he could find them. The hunt was part of the fun, although he didn’t have as much time for it as he used to. Friends had volunteered to comb junkyards for him and Liam was always on the lookout for interesting finds.

Sapphire carried in a box of welding equipment. “Where do you want this?” She stood in the middle of the spacious stall with her arms full.

“In the corner’s okay for now. I’ll set up everything tomorrow. Have you had dinner?”

“Um, no.” She put the box down and turned back to him. Instead of looking eager, she seemed wary. “But I’d planned to head home and catch up on some paperwork.”

Not the response he was hoping for. “How about taking some time to grab a bite with me at Scruffy’s Bar? There are a few things I’d like to discuss.”

Her expression remained guarded. “I guess I could. I’ll meet you over there, but I can’t stay long.”

“That’s fine.” It wasn’t fine at all. Where was that spark he’d seen a moment ago? He’d pictured her falling right in with his plan. They’d have a few drinks, dance a little and explore what he’d hoped would be a mutual attraction.

Maybe she had mountains of paperwork and really did need to finish it before tomorrow. “Listen, if you don’t have time, we can take a rain check.”

“No, it’ll be okay. I’m grateful that you agreed to be part of this.”

Oh, great. Now she was joining him out of a sense of obligation. “I’m happy to do it. Please don’t feel you have to keep me company while I eat. We can talk in the morning.”

“No, let’s do it now.” She gave him a quick smile. “I’ll lock up and be over there in a jiffy.”

She clearly didn’t want him hanging around while she took care of that. “See you there, then.” He touched the brim of his hat.

Damned if that gesture didn’t light up those amazing eyes of hers. Not for long, but this time he knew he wasn’t mistaken. She was attracted to him. But for some unknown reason, she didn’t want to be.

2

ONCE GRADY LEFT, Sapphire leaned against the nearest wall and groaned. How the hell was she supposed to get through tonight, let alone all the days and nights to follow, without jumping his bones? She’d hoped at least one of the co-op members would show up, but as much as they all wanted to meet Grady, every blessed person had other things going on.

She’d have to deal with his high-octane sexiness all by herself. Her hope that he wasn’t as gorgeous as she’d remembered from their meeting three weeks ago had died the minute he’d appeared beside the barn. He possessed a lethal combo of cowboy charm, good looks and creative talent that spelled trouble in neon lights. He was her particular brand of kryptonite and she’d agreed to have dinner with him.

Refusing would have been rude, even though he’d given her a way out. He’d put his own work on hold and driven up here because she’d asked him to support the charity event. Although he was staying with Ben and Molly Radcliffe, he apparently wasn’t expected there for dinner—another piece of bad luck.

Or maybe he’d been vague about his arrival time so he’d be free to ask her to dinner. They’d sparked off each other three weeks ago and self-preservation should have stopped her from asking him to headline the event. But her love for the kitties and gratitude to the shelter had overcome her misgivings.

She had no one to blame for this mess but herself and she’d do it all again considering how many guests and potential donations he’d pull in. She’d just have to exercise restraint whenever they were alone together and make it clear that she wasn’t interested. If the little voice in her head suggested that this man would be different, she wouldn’t listen.

She had a weakness for creative men. But after four failed relationships with artistic guys, she’d finally admitted that she didn’t belong with that type no matter how much they intrigued her. Some fatal flaw always turned up and doomed what had started out as something wonderful and promising. She was through taking chances.

After locking up, she drove her purple truck over to Scruffy’s, a bar known for good food and live country music. The smell of barbecue made her mouth water as she climbed out of her pickup, tucked her keys in the pocket of her skirt and started for the door. The parking lot was full, as always, so at least they’d have plenty of chaperones.

“Hey, there.” Grady walked toward her from the other side of the lot.

“Hi.” She paused, captured by the sheer beauty of him. Ignoring that for the next few days would be impossible. The waistband of his Wranglers sat easy on his lean hips and his yoked Western shirt emphasized the breadth of his shoulders. She imagined sliding her palms up the soft material and feeling his muscles bunch beneath her hands. His wavy brown hair, worn collar length, would feel like silk between her fingers.

His smile brought her attention to his mouth. She could write an essay on the sensual contours of those sculpted lips. Men like Grady had usually perfected the fine art of kissing. His lips would be like velvet as they—

“Ready to go in?”

Great. She’d been caught ogling. She cleared her throat. “I thought you’d already be inside.”

“I waited for you.”

“Thanks.” She risked looking into his brown eyes and her heart began to pound. Even shadowed by the brim of his hat, his gaze was hot. When a man looked at her that way, he had more than dinner on his mind—but she should talk after the way she’d checked him out.

The evening was taking on a familiar pattern. First they’d share a cozy booth and enjoy a meal along with some beer, which would loosen her inhibitions. Scruffy’s casual atmosphere made it a great place for shedding inhibitions, especially on the dance floor. She could hear the music from here and it got louder every time someone went in or came out. Grady would ask her to dance to a slow tune and they’d rub against each other until they were both ready to combust.

After that she’d suggest heading to the little house she rented with her sister, who was conveniently out of town. They’d spend most of the night having amazing sex and the game would be on. She’d vowed never to take that path again with an art-making man.

Accepting his dinner invitation had been a bad idea. Yet changing the plan now would be a delicate operation. She hoped the excuse she was about to give him would do the trick. “You know, I hate to do this, but on the drive over I continued to think about all the paperwork I have waiting at home. Dinner would be lovely, but I really need to take a rain check.”

“I see.” He nudged back his hat, which allowed the light from the building to illuminate his square-jawed perfection.

“I’m really sorry, Grady. Organizing the event put me behind.” True enough, but he didn’t seem to be buying it.

He gestured toward a spot away from the entrance and out of the glare of the lights. “Let’s step over there for a minute, where it’s not so loud.”

“All right.” She followed him into the shadows.

He paused and faced her, thumbs hooked in his belt loops. Sexy stance. “Sapphire, I’m interested in you and I get the impression you’re interested in me. But if there’s another guy, just say so. These things happen.”

“There isn’t anyone.” Not for lack of trying to find a nonartist whose company she enjoyed. She’d dated an insurance adjuster, a dentist and a systems engineer. She hadn’t clicked with any of them.

“Then why not have dinner with me?” He moved a little closer as his gaze held hers and a smile brought her attention back to his tempting mouth. “You have to eat sometime.”

“I know, but...let’s be honest.” She took a deep breath. “It’s not just about dinner, is it?”

His eyebrows lifted. “You want dessert, too? I dunno, Sapphire. That might stretch my budget.” His grin faded. “No, you’re right. It’s not just about dinner, but if you don’t have a boyfriend, what’s the problem? Am I wrong that you kind of like me?”

“You’re not wrong.” God, he was potent. Being near him fried her brain cells right when she needed to be alert. “But it’d be better if we just leave it at that.”

“Why?”

“What if it didn’t work out? That could make this week very awkward.”

He smiled and drew closer still. “If that’s all you’re worried about, there’s no problem. It’ll work out.”

“You seem pretty sure of yourself.” Too bad she found that hot as hell.

“Normally, I’m not, but this time I have my reasons. We’ve had chemistry from the minute we laid eyes on each other three weeks ago. I’ve seen the way you look at me.”

Heat sluiced through her. “Sorry. I’ll stop doing that.”

“Please don’t stop on my account. I look at you the same way. Finding you at the Art Barn that day was a revelation. From what I can tell, you’ve allowed your true self to shine through and that turns me on. You make the sexiest pottery I’ve ever seen.”

She laughed because he was the first person to say it out loud. No one else had dared. “Thank you.”

“No, thank you. Holding it is quite an experience. I picture the way your hands molded each piece and I—”

“Um, right.” If she let him go on in this vein, they’d never make it back to her house. They’d end up doing it in the back of a pickup, either hers or his. She’d thought their mutual attraction would be manageable. She’d never been so wrong.

“Lady, you and I generate a lot of heat. You can head home to catch up on paperwork but that’s not going to change anything.”

“Maybe not.” She shoved her hands in her pockets and clutched her keys as a reminder that she was leaving. Just because he thought her surrender was inevitable, didn’t mean he was right. But she could feel that heat he was talking about melting her resistance. “I need to go.” She started to turn away.

“Hang on for a second.” He lightly touched her arm.

The contact sent fire through her veins. “What for?” She turned back to him and saw the intent before he spoke the words.

“A kiss.”

“No, that would be—”

“Only fair. I’ve been imagining kissing you ever since I drove away three weeks ago. If you don’t want to take it beyond that point, I’ll abide by that decision.” He smiled. “What’s one little kiss?”

A mistake. “I guess that would be okay.”

“Not a very romantic answer.” He drew her into his arms and lowered his head. “But good enough.”

The velvet caress of his mouth was every bit as spectacular as she’d imagined. If she stuck to her guns, this would never happen again, so it seemed criminal to waste a single second of kissing Grady Magee. She hugged him close as he worked his magic. She’d figured the man could kiss, but she hadn’t known the half of it. He started slow, tormenting her with gentle touches that made her ache for more.

When he finally settled in, she opened to him greedily, desperately wanting the stroke of his tongue. Kissing him was exactly what she’d been trying to avoid, but when he cupped her bottom and drew her against the hard ridge of his cock, she forgot why she’d been so reluctant.

Wouldn’t a woman have to be crazy to reject this man? Wrapped in his strong arms and teased with his hot kisses, she craved the pleasure he promised.

Taking his mouth from hers, he continued to knead her bottom with his strong fingers. “Still think we should nip this thing in the bud?”

Speaking of nipping...she wouldn’t mind some of that, too. She gulped. “You’ve paralyzed my brain.”

“Good.” His mouth hovered over hers. “Maybe you think too much.” And he delved deep again as he coaxed her to respond.

She didn’t need much coaxing. With a low moan, she slid her arms around his neck and arched against his solid body. He answered with a low growl of pleasure and locked her in tight. She’d completely lost her mind.

In no time she’d thrust her tongue into his mouth. Somehow her hands moved from around his neck down to his firm butt cheeks. When his muscles flexed, she whimpered in frustration. There was only so much that could happen in the shadow of Scruffy’s Bar and they’d reached the limit.

Breathing hard, he lifted his mouth a fraction from hers. “Okay, we’re stopping now. But this isn’t over.”

She was incapable of speech, let alone an argument on that point.

Slowly he released her and backed away. “What time are you opening up tomorrow?”

She swallowed and frantically tried to remember. It finally came to her. “Seven.”

“I’ll be there. Take care, Sapphire.” He touched the brim of his hat.

She turned and fled. If she didn’t get out of there, she was liable to hurl herself back into his arms. Tomorrow she’d be stronger.

* * *

AFTER GRADY FINISHED his sandwich and beer at Scruffy’s, he headed over to Ben and Molly’s place. Although it seemed strange to be with them instead of at Thunder Mountain Ranch, they soon made him feel right at home. He had a chance to admire Ben’s new saddle shop adjacent to the house and talk with Molly about her teaching job at Sheridan Community College and her curriculum planning for Thunder Mountain Academy. He also made friends with their golden Lab.

He found out from Ben and Molly that the charity benefiting from Sapphire’s art event was the Fabulous Felines Cat Shelter. Fortunately, he was able to discuss the event and its organizer without letting his thoughts drift to that explosive kiss. But once he bid them good-night and stretched out on their comfy guest bed, he could think of nothing else. Holding her had been even more perfect than he’d imagined.

They fit together as if designed for the passionate lovemaking she claimed they shouldn’t have. Her soft breasts, her perfectly rounded ass and her supple lips taunted him relentlessly as he lay aroused and sweaty in the Radcliffes’ guest room.

Maybe she really believed that getting involved would compromise their working relationship this week, but he hoped to change her mind. He fell asleep thinking of all the ways he could do that. Kissing would be a major part of the plan.

The next morning he dressed in his old scuffed boots, well-worn jeans and a faded chambray shirt. Leaving the black dress hat on the dresser, he picked up his everyday brown Stetson and left the Radcliffes’ house after politely declining breakfast. They’d offered to fix him some, but that would have made him late.

He figured she’d be feeding the cats at seven. Ben and Molly had called it a feral cat colony. Although he wasn’t familiar with the term, he could figure it out. The cats living in the woods weren’t completely civilized, but they weren’t completely antisocial, either. He could relate to that. There were times he longed to retreat into his studio and never come out. Other times he craved human companionship.

He wondered if other artists felt the same. This week would be a great time to find out if he was crazy or not. He was very different from his brother, a guide for white-water rafting trips. Liam was extremely social and even after all these years didn’t totally understand Grady’s need for solitude.

Dew sparkled on the grass when he pulled into the Art Barn parking lot a good thirty minutes early. Sapphire’s purple truck wasn’t there, so he sat with the windows rolled down and waited. The air smelled great and he wondered how often these days he took the time to simply be.

The sudden fame had taken him by surprise. Within a year he’d gone from living a somewhat solitary life in Alaska to being the darling of the Western art world. He was a beer-and-barbecue guy thrown into a champagne-and-caviar crowd and he still didn’t quite have his footing. Being in Sheridan for this fund-raiser offered him the small-town ambiance he liked, maybe even needed.

Sapphire drove in and his body tightened. He couldn’t remember ever wanting a woman this much. Maybe her reluctance to become involved with him played a part in that—the old forbidden-fruit ploy.

Because she didn’t know him that well yet, she might be worried that he’d take off if the two of them had a spat. Raising money for the shelter was very important to her and she wouldn’t want to jeopardize that. He wasn’t sure how to convince her that he wasn’t the kind of selfish SOB who would ruin her cherished event because they weren’t getting along. Besides, they would get along. Oh, yeah, they certainly would.

Grabbing his water jug for later, he left his truck and closed the door with a minimum of noise. This time of the morning, traffic was light on the road that ran past the Art Barn, so birds chirping and warbling provided the only soundtrack. He liked sharing this peaceful setting with her.

Yet when he joined her as they walked to the front door, he could tell she was nervous. She gave him a quick smile and a breathy “Hi,” but her hand quivered as she tried to open the door. Today she’d worn embroidered jeans and a tie-dyed blouse. Her colorful glass earrings reached to her shoulders and they tinkled as she worked with the key.

“Let me.” He took the keys and got the door open. He fought the urge to cup her earrings in one hand to quiet the music while he nibbled on her tender earlobe. He’d read somewhere that earrings were a sexual invitation and he was more than ready to accept.

“Thanks. I must have had too much caffeine.”

He hadn’t had a drop but he was as wired as if he’d mainlined a whole pot. “Speaking of that, if you’ll show me the coffee routine, I’ll make some.”

“I’ll put some on. I’m sure you want to start setting up your equipment.” Her gaze met his and skittered away.

“How about if I help you feed the cats first?”

“You don’t have to.” She gave him another quick glance, this one more pointed, as if silently warning him to back off.

“Are you worried that I’ll scare Fred?”

She opened her mouth and then closed it again. Her tiny sigh of resignation was almost too faint to hear. “If you come out with me and keep still, it should be fine.”

“I can do that.” He wasn’t about to stay away from her, even though that was clearly what she thought she wanted. “Since they’re the reason I’m here, I’d like to get better acquainted.”

Her smile said she didn’t quite believe that, but she nodded. “You can make the coffee while I fill the food bowls.”

“Sounds like a plan.” He followed her into the small space. Close quarters, which made it a great spot for a seduction, but he wasn’t going to attempt one. He could feel the tension radiating from her. If he remained patient, she might surrender to it and seduce him, instead. Not this morning, but maybe before the week was over.

“The coffeepot and coffee are down there at the end. It’s a basic model.”

“Good. I like basic.” He filled his water jug before making the coffee. He’d need the hydration once he started welding. “Ben and Molly said to say hi.”

“They’re good people.” She got out the bowls and opened a bin of fishy-smelling dry cat food.

“They think the same of you. They’re excited about this event to generate donations for the shelter.”

She smiled at him. “Glad to hear it.” She began scooping food into the bowls.

“Did you get your paperwork finished?”

“What paperwork?”

“You know, the paperwork you rushed home to work on last night.”

“Oh...yeah.” Her cheeks turned pink. “I didn’t finish but I made a sizable dent in it. Thanks for asking.”

He started the coffee perking and turned to watch her. “Actually, I didn’t know until last night that the event is to raise money for the cat shelter and the work they do with feral colonies. Ben and Molly filled me in.”

“I didn’t tell you?”

“You might have. I wasn’t focused on that aspect.”

She paused and looked over at him. “Are you saying you only agreed to be here because of me?”

“Yes, ma’am.” She might as well know it.

She groaned. “I didn’t mean to give you the wrong idea.”

“Or maybe you gave me the right idea. Three weeks ago I glanced in the rearview mirror as I was driving away from here and you were standing there watching me go. I extrapolated from that and figured we might have a good time when I came back.” He held her gaze. “I still believe we can.”

Her breath caught and desire shimmered in her turquoise eyes. He’d bet good money that if he tried kissing her again, she’d let him. They weren’t in a public parking lot anymore, either. He imagined lifting her to the counter and unbuttoning her blouse.

The image was followed by thoughts of openmouthed kisses and intimate caresses as he sought the moist recesses of her trembling body. By the time he was finished loving her, they’d have bowls and cat food scattered everywhere and a mess to clean up. The cats still wouldn’t be fed.

He took a calming breath. “We need to feed those cats.”

3

SAPPHIRE COULDN’T DECIDE whether she was relieved or disappointed that Grady had passed up the chance to kiss her. Her thoughts had run in circles all night long, but one intriguing concept kept coming back around. What if they could have sex without any emotional entanglement?

The idea had merit. He lived in Cody, after all, and he was a very busy guy. She’d made the mistake of becoming emotionally invested in those other men and that had seemed to bring out the worst in them. If she didn’t allow that to happen with Grady... Yeah, getting involved with him would still be somewhat of a risk, but he could be worth it.

She was touched that he’d wanted to interact with the cats this morning and that he’d taken it seriously enough to give the job priority. He’d clearly had other things on his mind a moment ago. Yet here he was helping her carry bowls out to the same spot where he’d found her the night before.

He glanced at her as they set the bowls in the grass. “Couldn’t you just use a couple of large bowls?”

“I could, but some cats might be crowded out and not get their fair share. This way I know everybody gets a decent helping.”

“Must be tricky hauling them all out here by yourself.”

“A little. I’ve learned to manage it.”

He crouched down beside her, which meant she was able to breathe in the scent of his aftershave. Whatever he used had a smoky, seductive quality that suggested an activity involving hot bodies and soft sheets. Rolling around in the grass sounded like a good alternative. Being with Grady was a party waiting to happen.

If she didn’t concentrate on something else, she’d be fighting the urge to grab him the entire time they were out here. “Normally, some of the cats would be here waiting but we’re a little earlier than usual.”

“So you’re feeding them, but how does the shelter come into the picture?”

“The biggest contribution is medical.” She kept her attention on the tree line as she looked for cats emerging from the shadows. “If we can get the cats into carriers, that’s great, but mostly we have to trap them. Then they’re either spayed or neutered, vaccinated and checked for any other issues. If the vet finds anything else, she treats it for the cost of the meds and supplies.”

“Sounds like a great program.”

“It is. The cats stay healthy but they don’t keep adding more strays to the population.”

“Have you figured out how the cats wound up here?”

She appreciated his interest. Questions about a topic dear to her heart made for a welcome distraction. “The first generation might have been barn cats when horses were housed in the stalls. Then the property was sold and the grain and the hay disappeared. Once the mice left, the cats had nothing to eat, so they likely moved to the woods and foraged for small rodents.”

“And essentially became wild.”

“They did.” As she talked about the cats, her tension gradually eased. “But most of them seem to have retained a connection to people and to this barn. Fred’s the least trusting. He joined the colony late and I don’t think he liked being trapped and neutered.”

“Do you blame him?”

She smiled at his look of horror. “We can’t let them procreate.”

“I get that and I’m all for population control. I just avoid thinking about the process.”

“Are you squeamish?”

“Only when we’re talking about cutting off—”

“Look.” She pointed toward the trees. “Here they come.”

“Where?” Squinting, he scanned the area.

“Over there, moving past the trunk of that big pine. Snow White’s in the lead, as always. Grumpy, Sneezy and Dopey are following her.” The little white female was always easy to spot, while the dappled shade camouflaged the others until they stepped out into the open.

“Okay, I see them.”

“We’re fairly sure those gray tabbies are Snow White’s kittens because of the way she mothers them. And here comes Athena with her brood. They all got her butterscotch coloring except Persephone, the tortoiseshell. There’s Fred, bringing up the rear.”

“He sure does stand out.”

“Yep. He was the hardest to catch. We finally got him in the trap using tuna as bait. I think the others would eat any flavor I put out, but I buy the fish kind because that’s all Fred will eat.”

“You’re partial to him.”

“I am. He’s the smartest one and a survivor. He has several scars from the fights he’s been in, but he beat the odds.” She glanced at the approaching cats. “They seem a little uneasy about you being here. Maybe we shouldn’t talk.”

As they both fell silent, every cat settled down to eat except Fred, who stayed about six feet away with his green eyes fixed on Grady. Sapphire waited in hopes the cat would come forward on his own, but at last she decided he needed to be coaxed.

“Stay very still,” she said, “while I try to sweet-talk him into coming over.”

Grady gave a slight nod.

Leaning forward, she began crooning to the cat. “Come on, sweet Freddie. This man isn’t going to hurt you.” She lowered her voice. “Freddie, Freddie, Freddie. You know you want some. Come on, kitty-cat. That’s a good boy.”

Fred crept up to the bowl and began to eat, his teeth crunching on the small pellets. But that wasn’t the only sound Sapphire heard. The rhythm of Grady’s breathing had changed. She knew that rhythm because she’d heard it last night after he’d kissed her senseless.

She couldn’t imagine why he was reacting that way, unless... She had to smile as she thought of a possible reason. She’d probably sounded damned seductive just now when she’d lured Fred up to the food bowl. Having a man around who was that susceptible to her was flattering. And arousing.

The cats made short work of the food. When it was gone, some moved away from the bowls and began grooming themselves. Snow White and Persephone came over for some head scratches, but Fred grabbed up one last bite before turning and scampering back to the woods as if he couldn’t wait to leave.

“I’m determined to pet him someday.”

“You probably will.” Grady’s breathing was back to normal.

“I think I will, too, eventually.” She gave Athena some attention before she began gathering up the bowls. “Show’s over for this morning, though.”

He picked up the rest of the bowls. “I’ll help you wash these.”

“That’s above and beyond. I know you want to get your area set up.” She didn’t feel ready to share the small space with him again. Besides, one of the other co-op members could show up at any moment and she didn’t want to take a chance on major embarrassment. “I’ll do it.”

He must have heard something in her voice, because he didn’t insist. “Thanks for letting me come along for the feeding routine.”

“You’re welcome. Did you pick any favorites?”

“Either Snow White or Athena. I haven’t decided which.”

“The two mama kitties.”

“Yep.” He held the door for her and followed her into the tiny kitchen. “I’m a real fan of mothers who stick by their kids. Like my mom did.”

She put down the bowls and turned to him in surprise. “But you ended up in foster care at Thunder Mountain Ranch.”

“And consequently, people think she abandoned us. Instead she was in a car accident and Rosie offered to take Liam and me until Mom was on her feet. Once she was okay, we went straight back to her. She’s terrific.”

“Does she live here?”

“Not anymore. She’s in Cody with her new husband. Liam moved there when he got the job with the rafting company. I’d left to work in Alaska, so Liam talked Mom into moving down there with him. She met John in Cody. It all worked out.”

“I can see that.” Her heart squeezed as she thought of how tough those years when his mom was laid up must have been. “I’m glad for you. When we were in high school, all I knew was that you and your brother were at Thunder Mountain. I figured the two of you had no parents, or at least none that were worth anything.”

He grimaced. “That’s the only bad thing about going there. People assume we were neglected. Rosie’s tried to set the record straight, but it’s not easy. Thunder Mountain boys are supposed to be hard-luck cases.”

“And some of them are.”

“Yeah, just not me and Liam.” He walked over to the coffeepot. “I’ll get a cup of coffee and move out of your way.”

“Will you start work on the sculpture for the event?”

“No, I’m saving that for the actual night.” He took a mug out of the cupboard and poured coffee into it. “But I need to get comfortable with the space. Liam said Rosie would love to have one of my pieces, so that’s what I’m going to make first to test the setup.”

“That’s so sweet!”

“I’m a sweet guy.” He grinned. “So if you need me, I’ll be in the back of the barn getting hot and sweaty.” He picked up his coffee and left the kitchen.

Once he was gone, she took a deep breath before turning her focus to the bowls. She’d never washed those bowls so thoroughly. She scrubbed each one until her fingertips wrinkled while she tried to blot out the image of Grady’s smile and his “getting hot and sweaty” comment. He wasn’t going to let up on her.

Well, who could blame him? Last night she’d practically shrink-wrapped herself to his body. She’d barely escaped from the parking lot without begging him to come home with her.

She’d vowed on her way here this morning that this would be a new day and she’d keep her cool. That had lasted until he’d climbed out of his truck in his work clothes. He shouldn’t have been as sexy in those as when he’d been dressed to impress, but apparently, it didn’t matter what that cowboy wore. He had only to show up and she’d respond with a rapid pulse and damp panties.

Her lusty thoughts persisted even though he’d walked to the back of the barn at least fifteen minutes ago. The clank of metal and the hiss of a torch indicated he was working while she stood staring into space and wasting time.

Before his arrival yesterday she’d thought having him in the adjoining stall would be harmless fun, a chance to prove she could flirt without getting involved. Instead it looked as if she’d battle constant temptation with no relief in sight. She’d underestimated her sex drive, as well as his.

Swearing off artists had seemed like a piece of cake when she’d been smarting from the last humiliating breakup. Then Grady Magee had walked into her life. If the gods were testing her, they couldn’t have given her a bigger challenge. He was better looking, sexier and more talented than any of the other four.

She had plans for today, though, and her wheel was waiting. Maybe once she immersed herself in the project, she’d forget that Grady was on the other side of the wall getting hot and sweaty. Yeah, right. Molding slick clay on a revolving wheel was a sensuous experience that would only make the situation worse.

One of the other co-op members was bound to come in shortly. She took courage from that as she walked down the aisle between the stalls. If she went straight into her work area without stopping by his, she might be okay.

The hissing of the torch stopped. “Is that you, Sapphire?”

“It’s me.”

“Could you give me some advice on this thing I’m making for Rosie?”

She could hardly refuse such a request. “Sure.” Besides being flattered that he’d ask her opinion, she was curious about the design. He hadn’t mentioned what he’d planned to create for his foster mother.

She felt the heat before she stepped inside the stall. He hadn’t been kidding about the “hot and sweaty” part. His goggles hung around his neck and moisture had collected in the hollow of his throat. She wanted to dip her tongue into that depression and savor the salty taste.

Or maybe she’d comb his damp hair away from his forehead and unbutton the shirt that clung to his muscular chest. Booted feet braced apart and leather gloves tucked under one arm, he studied a sketch he’d tacked to the wall that separated his stall from hers. He’d laid an assortment of metal pieces on the floor beneath it.

She stifled a groan of frustration. Knowing he was the man who’d created the sculptures she’d seen in galleries had certainly made him appealing. Yet that was nothing compared to being in the same physical environment where he labored over his art. A visceral tug of longing almost made her reach for him. She clenched both hands and fought the impulse.

Something told her he wouldn’t welcome a sexual advance right now, in spite of all the discussion they’d had on the subject. When he looked at her, his direct gaze was all business. He was in work mode. “This won’t take long, I promise. I know you have your own stuff to do.”

“No problem.” His change of mood might have insulted another woman, but not her. She understood it. He’d entered his creative zone and had channeled all his sexual energy there. As long as he was focused on sculpting, she wouldn’t have to worry about this attraction between them. She hadn’t counted on that, because it was a rare gift, but one she respected. It also might explain why Grady had achieved such a high level of success.

“I thought I knew what I wanted when I sketched this,” he said, “but now I’m rethinking the configuration. It’s wolves.”

“I can see that. Nice.” The sketch was more than nice. He’d captured maternal love so perfectly that she had no doubt it was a mother with her litter.

“I picked a female wolf for Rosie because wolves have several pups. I’ll make a bear for my mom because bears only have two.”

Talk about irresistible. Now he’d added a layer of tender consideration to his blatant sexuality. “I’m sure they’ll both be thrilled. The concepts are brilliant.”

“I don’t know about the brilliant part, but they’re logical.”

Oh, and FYI, the guy was modest. His admirable traits kept stacking up. “Trust me, both ladies will think the pieces are brilliant.”

He laughed. “They do have an embarrassing tendency to gush. Okay, back to these wolves. My sketch has six pups but I think five is plenty. Maybe I should drop it back to four.”

“Hmm.” She studied his drawing. He’d arranged the wolves so they were all interconnected and would form a cohesive sculpture. She loved the symmetry of it.

“On a practical note, I’m one short of the recycled pieces I need for the pups’ noses. I’d have to go looking for another one if I keep six, but dropping just one doesn’t feel right for the composition.”

“I’d leave them all in. You’ve already figured out how to do it, so taking one out means redoing the whole arrangement.”

“But what about the nose thing? I don’t know the scrapyards around here the way I do the ones in Cody.”

“Could you alter one of the poses so the pup has his paw over his nose?”

“Maybe.” He stepped toward the drawing. “That one. I could move the paw up without compromising the design.” He turned to her with a smile. “Great idea. Thanks.”

“You’re welcome.”

“Yeah, that’ll work. Great suggestion.” He repositioned his goggles, picked up his torch and grabbed one of the pieces of metal from the grouping on the floor. He acted as if he’d forgotten she was there.

Fascinating. She’d imagined having to fight off his advances, but it seemed that when he was working, he wouldn’t be making any. That alone separated him from the other artists she’d dated. All of them, she realized now, had been easily distracted and basically lazy. They’d expected success to come to them without a whole lot of effort. They’d had ability and she’d allowed herself to be impressed with that, but ability without discipline was useless.

But comparisons to her ex-boyfriends didn’t matter, because if she did decide to have sex with Grady, that was all it would be about. She’d keep it pure so she’d never have to discover his fatal flaw and become disillusioned for the fifth time. Could she manage to enjoy the sex and keep her emotions out of it? Only one way to find out.

Walking into her cubicle, she stared at her potter’s wheel. She already had a plan for her next project, a large bowl to hold fruit. The interior would be a cool lime green and the exterior would be pale orange. She might add some flecks of yellow if she settled on the right shade.

Yesterday she’d been excited about making it, but today her thoughts were on Grady instead of the new piece that had been on the drawing board for more than a week. Several customers had said they’d buy such a bowl, so she’d already presold a few. On the other side of the wall Grady’s torch hissed, and the air was filled with the acrid scent of hot metal.

Listening to those sounds galvanized her. She’d make that bowl this morning and have a prototype for the others. Each one would be slightly different because that was her hallmark, but she had to create the first one in order to make variations on that theme.

Generally, she preferred working alone in the barn, but having Grady there intent on his sculpting kept her at the wheel longer than she’d intended. His energy seemed to penetrate the barrier between them and she experienced design breakthroughs that stunned her. The fruit bowl took on an unusual shape that dipped on one side to leave room for a cascade of grapes or a cluster of bananas. She could see that becoming a trademark of her fruit-bowl designs.

She’d transferred the first one to the kiln and stopped by the kitchen to get coffee when Arlene Danbury came through the door. Arlene’s watercolors of Wyoming landscapes had become increasingly popular in the past year, but the income wasn’t enough for her to live on. She worked part-time as a nail tech in a local salon to make ends meet. She reminded Sapphire of a sparrow—always in motion and easily flustered.

This morning she was more hyper than usual. “He’s here, isn’t he? I can smell hot metal.”

Sapphire felt like the gatekeeper, but if not her, then who? “He’s working and I’ve learned he’s very focused. We probably shouldn’t disturb him.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it. But he’ll take a break sometime, right? What’s he working on? Is it the piece for the silent auction? I thought we were supposed to—”

“It’s not for the silent auction.” Sapphire had learned it was best to interrupt Arlene when she launched a barrage of chatter or it would go on forever. “He’s making a sculpture for his foster mom. You know Rosie Padgett, right?”

“She’s my client! I just did her nails this week. She’ll be so thrilled. Is it a surprise? I’ll bet it’s a surprise, so I won’t say anything. But if it’s not a surprise, then she might think it’s odd that I don’t—”

“I think it’s somewhat of a surprise but I didn’t find that out. We’ll ask him when he comes up for air.”

“Okay. Let me get some coffee before I go back to my stall.” She kept talking as she walked over to the pot. “I shouldn’t have any more, because I’m already a little jumpy, but I work so much better when I’m sipping coffee. Wait, there’s only enough for one cup. Did you want that?”

“Go ahead. I’ll make more.”

“If I’m the one to take the last of it, I’ll make another pot. That’s the way it always worked in my family. Maybe Grady wants some. Is he a coffee drinker?”

“I am.” Grady appeared in the doorway to the kitchen. “But I can make it.” Stepping through the door, he held out his hand. “Grady Magee, ma’am. Pleased to meet you.”

For the first time in Sapphire’s memory, Arlene was speechless. She stared up at the tall cowboy with her eyes wide and her mouth hanging open. After what felt like a very long time, she murmured, “You’re beautiful.” Then she pressed her hands to her pink cheeks. “Did I just say that out loud?”

Grady smiled. “If you think I look good, you should see my brother, Liam. He’s the handsome one in the family.”

“Then your mom and dad must be beautiful, too.”

“Never knew my dad, but my mom is definitely beautiful.” His gaze flicked over to meet Sapphire’s as if to ask, Who is this nutty lady?

Since Arlene didn’t seem aware that she’d failed to introduce herself, Sapphire decided she’d better do the honors. “Grady, this is Arlene Danbury. Her watercolors of the Bighorn Mountains are becoming quite popular.”

Arlene’s blush deepened. “Not as popular as your sculptures, Grady.”

“They will be. I noticed your watercolors. Really nice.”

“Oh, thank you! Pick whichever one you want and it’s yours!”

He smiled at her. “You know I can’t do that. I’d choose the best one and you’d be out a lot of money.”

“I don’t care.”

“But I do. I’ll buy one of your watercolors and be honored to have the opportunity. Now, how about if I dump out the dregs and make us all a fresh pot of coffee?”

“Okay.” Still dazed, Arlene nodded and moved out of his way. Then she turned to Sapphire and mouthed, Oh, my God.

Sapphire struggled not to lose it. At least she wasn’t the only one enthralled with Grady. Arlene gradually recovered her poise and began pelting him with questions about his work. Surprisingly, she gave him a chance to answer each one before she threw out another, but it was more like an interview than a conversation.

He took it in stride, as if this happened to him quite a bit. Sapphire didn’t doubt it. She couldn’t recall his being followed by a pack of female admirers back in high school, but he’d filled out since then. And he’d taken up sculpting.

She’d bet his career choice affected how women perceived him. It certainly had influenced her. In high school he’d been a cute cowboy like all the others who attended school there. He still had cowboy charisma going on but he’d added a layer of intrigue with his career in the arts. No wonder Arlene had been struck mute.

But Sapphire had picked up another tidbit thanks to Arlene’s fan-girl moment. He hadn’t known his dad. In talking about his mother and Rosie, he’d skipped over any mention of his father. He’d quickly dismissed the subject just now, too. Come to think of it, Grady and Liam wouldn’t have lived at Thunder Mountain Ranch if their father had been around to help out.

In a way she wished she hadn’t learned that. It made him more vulnerable, more human and endearing. Because he hadn’t elaborated, she didn’t think the story was a pretty one. He admired his mother because she’d stuck by her kids and had raised them by herself, apparently, until the car accident had left her with nowhere to turn. That meant grandparents hadn’t been on hand, either.

Yeah, she really didn’t want to know that about him. Staying emotionally detached from a guy who looked like Grady and had the talent of an angel was difficult enough without finding out that he was fatherless, too. Herb Padgett, Rosie’s husband, would have taken that role to some extent and maybe Grady’s new stepdad had belatedly become a father figure. But during Grady’s early years he’d missed out on having a dad for games of catch or afternoons spent at the nearest fishing hole.

“Coffee’s ready. Who wants a cup?” Grady held up the pot.

“Me, please.” Arlene stuck out her mug. “Thank you so much for making it. Have you ever heated water for coffee with a welding torch? I knew a guy who used to do that all the time, made me so nervous. I told him a million times not to do it but he thought it was a cool idea. In my opinion—”

“Fortunately, I don’t do that.” Grady held up the pot. “Sapphire? Coffee?”

“Sure. Thanks.”

He poured it and tossed her a wink when Arlene started in on unsafe-welding-torch stories again. “If you ladies will excuse me, I’m gonna take my coffee and get back to work.”

“Me, too,” Arlene said. “I’ll walk you down there.”

“That would be great.” Grady gave Sapphire a quick smile before leaving with Arlene.

Her voice drifted back as they started down the barn aisle. “Can I peek in on your project?”

“Not yet, ma’am.” Grady sounded polite but firm. “If you don’t mind, this is a very personal sculpture, so I’d like to make a lot more progress before I show it to anyone.”

“Oh, sure, sure. I totally understand.” Arlene must have realized she was being pushy. “I’ll just stop off here at my stall, then. See you later!”

Nicely handled, Sapphire thought. Knowing he’d trusted her enough to seek her advice about the piece created a warm glow that she carried with her as she returned to her wheel. But her plan to keep her emotional distance wasn’t working worth a damn. That could be a problem.

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