“Hell, woman, I haven’t had a decent night’s sleep since I met you!”

She stared at him, anger flashing in her eyes. “And that’s my problem? You’re blaming me for your lack of sleep? That’s just great.” She marched up the stairs, her shapely bottom swaying back and forth, heightening his desire. “Good night, Patrick. Sweet dreams,” she taunted as she disappeared into her room. The door slammed behind her.

Patrick closed his eyes. Cynthia had him tied up in so many knots that he wasn’t going to survive another day—another minute, another second. He climbed the stairs two at a time and stormed to her room.

Cynthia swung open the door, and before she knew what hit her, Patrick grabbed her and pulled her to him.

“If you have any protests, you’d better tell me now, because I’m going to make love to you and I’m not stopping until I get my fill.”

Cynthia reached up and ran her fingers through his hair. “No. You’re not stopping until I get my fill.”

PATRICIA THAYER

Originally born and raised in Muncie, Indiana, PATRICIA THAYER has called Orange County, California, home for many years. She not only enjoys the warm climate, but also the company and support of other published authors in the local writers’ organization.

When not working on a story, you might find her traveling the United States and Europe, accompanied by Steve, her husband for more than thirty-five years. Together they have three grown sons and four grandsons. On rare days off from writing, you might catch her at Disneyland, spoiling those grandkids rotten! She also volunteers for the Grandparent Autism Network.

Patricia has written for over twenty years and has authored more than thirty-six books for Silhouette and Harlequin Books. She has been nominated for both the National Readers’ Choice Award and the prestigious RITA® Award. Her book Nothing Short of a Miracle won an RT Book Reviews Reviewer’s Choice award. A longtime member of Romance Writers of America, she has served as president and held many other board positions for her local chapter in Orange County. She’s a firm believer in giving back.

Check her website at www.patriciathayer.com for upcoming books.

What a Man Needs
Patricia Thayer

www.millsandboon.co.uk

Be a part of

Because birthright has its privileges and family ties run deep.

When a cowboy meets an actress, neither expects the fireworks their chemistry ignites. Will their sweet passion lead to everlasting love?

Patrick Tanner: A no-nonsense cowboy with a chip on his shoulder, Patrick threw caution to the wind and entertained a beautiful movie star on his ranch. They forgot their cares and indulged in each other. Was this just the beginning of something special?

Cynthia Reynolds: After years in Hollywood, Cynthia felt her star was fading. So she came home to escape and fell hard for hardworking, hard-loving Patrick Tanner. He didn’t care who she was—only that she let him treasure her for as long as they had together.

The Mysterious Wife

Carrie Martin had loved Dr. Richie, but when he became a celebrity, their marriage fell apart. Now, Carrie was determined to confront the man she’d once adored and show him what their love produced.

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Because birthright has its privileges and family ties run deep.

AVAILABLE JUNE 2010

 1.) To Love and Protect by Susan Mallery

 2.) Secrets & Seductions by Pamela Toth

 3.) Royal Affair by Laurie Paige

 4.) For Love and Family by Victoria Pade

AVAILABLE JULY 2010

 5.) The Bachelor by Marie Ferrarella

 6.) A Precious Gift by Karen Rose Smith

 7.) Child of Her Heart by Cheryl St. John

 8.) Intimate Surrender by RaeAnne Thayne

AVAILABLE AUGUST 2010

 9.) The Secret Heir by Gina Wilkins

 10.) The Newlyweds by Elizabeth Bevarly

 11.) Right by Her Side by Christie Ridgway

 12.) The Homecoming by Anne Marie Winston

AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 2010

 13.) The Greatest Risk by Cara Colter

 14.) What a Man Needs by Patricia Thayer

 15.) Undercover Passion by Raye Morgan

 16.) Royal Seduction by Donna Clayton

To the other Logan’s Legacy Ladies,

Cara Colter, Donna Clayton, Raye Morgan.

It was truly a pleasure to work with all of you.

Contents

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Epilogue

Prologue

“Y ou have to believe you can do it,” Dr. Richard Strong said to the crowded room. He paced in front of the podium at the Healthy Living Clinic in Portland, Oregon. “To be willing to change your lifestyle. It’s not just with what you eat, but with how you feel about yourself. NoWait will only work if you’re willing to work.”

Richie knew he had every person in the room. It had taken years to perfect his presence, and the effort was finally paying off. Oh, yeah, he was good, especially at getting women’s attention. They had been the main contributors to his success and would do anything to get close to him, to show their gratitude. But that didn’t stop the men from attending his seminars. From construction workers to doctors, they were buying his homeopathic oil…and making him rich.

And he believed he was changing their lives for the better.

Cynthia Reynolds sat in the back of the room with her sister, Kelly. Cynthia, too, was excited by Dr. Richie’s talk. At thirty-five, she’d seen the changes in her body and she was aware of every extra pound. Not to mention that the camera picked up every tiny line on her face. In Hollywood, it was youth and beauty that stayed on top.

Her sister leaned toward her and whispered, “Do you really believe this homeopathic mumbo-jumbo?”

Kelly, two years younger, had a fresh, natural look. She had gone into law and made a name for herself here in Portland.

“I don’t have a choice,” Cynthia admitted.

Her sister smiled. “Then buy a truckload of this NoWait stuff.”

“I only need a little behind my ears.”

“Then do it and let’s go hit the nightlife. I need to see a man about a horse.”

One

P atrick Tanner walked into Morgan’s Pub and squinted to adjust to the dim light. The room had a long oak bar on one side, and several booths on the other. The sound of clinking glasses and laughter was muffled by the loud music coming from the jukebox.

The place was already crowded with Friday-night customers.

Patrick continued to look around. There were several women who returned an I’m-interested look, but he didn’t reciprocate. Not tonight. His youngest sister, Nora, had called and said she needed to see him. And anyone who knew Patrick knew his family came first, even if he had to drive forty miles from the ranch into Portland.

A long, thirsty drive, he thought as he walked to the bar and sat down on the stool. The burly bartender was wiping his hands on a towel when he came up to him. “What’ll it be?”

“A beer. Whatever’s on tap.”

The man nodded, then took a mug from the shelf, tilted it under the spout and pulled the lever. Once the golden liquid had filled the glass to the brim, he set it down on the bar. “Enjoy.”

“Thanks, I will.” Patrick gripped the handle and took a long swallow. He didn’t drink often, but a beer once in a while didn’t hurt. He would never let alcohol consume his life. He’d never be like his father. Never.

Patrick pushed aside the bitter thoughts and glanced at his watch. Nora should have been here by now. He was reaching for his cell phone when the door opened and two women walked in. A blonde and a redhead, both unfamiliar, walked toward an empty table, both tall and beautiful enough to turn just about every man’s head in the room. Patrick usually preferred blondes, but this time the redhead drew all his attention. She had striking features, large dark eyes, a wide, kissable mouth….

He changed his focus to her attire, a blue-green blouse and a pair of jeans that encased long, slender legs. When she turned around and his gaze dropped to her shapely bottom, Patrick took a long drink of his cold beer. Oh, boy, he’d been spending too much time on the ranch.

Cynthia Reynolds had wanted to argue with Kelly when she’d suggested coming to Morgan’s Pub, and now, seeing the good-looking man at the bar, she was glad she hadn’t.

Cynthia guessed his age at about thirty-five. He was a little rough around the edges with shaggy dark blond hair that hadn’t seen a stylist in a long time. He wore a chambray shirt and a pair of jeans, faded and soft from wear, and a brown belt that circled his slim waist. Cyndi found she was daydreaming about how she would pop open each snap on his shirt….

She quickly pushed aside the thought. What was wrong with her? He wasn’t even her usual type.

But when his gaze met hers, she couldn’t seem to turn away. Those piercing eyes held her prisoner as a slow smile emphasized his already sensual mouth, and her breath suddenly locked in her lungs.

“See anything that interests you?” Kelly’s voice broke through her reverie.

Cynthia hated that her sister could always read her so easily. Maybe that was the reason Kelly was such a good lawyer. She was not only beautiful, with her dazzling brown eyes and golden hair, but she’d also got the brains of the family.

“Maybe, but I’m not going to do anything about it.”

The waitress came by for their drink order. Once it was given, their conversation started up again. “And what’s wrong with having a little fun?” Kelly asked. “You can’t work all the time. Besides, so far, no one has recognized you.”

Cynthia was glad that people weren’t asking for her autograph. She didn’t want to be front cover in the tabloids, whether she did anything crazy or not.

“Maybe because I’m old news and I haven’t actually been in a box-office hit in three years.” Back then Cynthia Reynolds had had to turn movie scripts away.

“And that’s going to change.”

“Please don’t tell me you set me up with a guy.”

“No, I wouldn’t do that.” Kelly brushed back her shoulder-length hair and glanced around the bar. “I’m looking for my assistant, Nora. She’s going to help us with your problem.”

“My problem? What problem?”

Kelly’s eyes narrowed in disdain. “The problem you’ve had since you were six years old. Your fear of horses.”

“What does that have to do with anything?”

“You’ve got to overcome that fear if you want to land the best movie role that’s come down the pike in years.”

Cynthia sighed. “You’ve been talking to Bernie.”

Bernie Schwartz, her agent for the last fifteen years—and a veritable tiger when it came to the business. For the past two months, Bernie had been bugging her about this project.

“Is this about the Western, Cheyenne?” Cynthia asked.

“Of course it is,” Kelly said as the waitress returned with their drinks. “From what I hear, you’re perfect for the female lead.”

Cynthia frowned. “They’re looking for someone under thirty.”

“So, you can pass for thirty,” Kelly said convincingly.

Plus five years, Cynthia said to herself. “Not in close-ups.” She glanced toward the bar again. The man was still watching her. He nodded to her, then took a drink from his glass. Cynthia found herself lifting her own drink and nodding back, a flush heating her cheeks. What had gotten into her? She didn’t flirt with strange men. But there was something about this cowboy that got her blood pumping. And that hadn’t happened for a long time.

“It’s so not fair,” Kelly said, “especially when you know that the male lead will probably be at least thirty-five. That’s discrimination. Just say the word and I’ll—”

“No! That won’t help my situation,” Cynthia insisted. “It’s bad enough that lately my phone hasn’t exactly been ringing off the hook for roles. I’m sure a lawyer screaming discrimination will silence it totally.”

Kelly had a successful practice as a divorce lawyer in Portland and she had always fought for the underdog. “Then how about a more subtle approach?”

Cynthia was having trouble concentrating. Her cowboy at the bar was too distracting. “And just what would that be?”

“You learn how to ride a horse and go after this role.” She raised a hand. “And before you get all worked up, just hear me out. Nora has assured me that you can overcome your fear if you have the right teacher.”

Cynthia’s attention strayed to the bar again as a tingle ran through her. She wouldn’t mind if this man taught her a few things.

“Cyndi, are you hearing anything I’m saying?”

“Sure I am. You think I should learn to ride.”

Kelly looked toward the bar, then back at Cynthia with a smile. “My sister has good taste. So what’s stopping you? Go talk to him. Just don’t forget that we’re going to be meeting with Nora in a little while.”

“I can’t promise that I’ll get on a horse, Kelly, but I’ll talk to her.”

Cynthia stood and made her way across the room. She told herself she was crazy to do this, but her heart still raced. Her attraction to this man was not to be denied. As she got closer, that thought was the only thing that kept her from running in the other direction. That and his eyes were a brilliant, mesmerizing blue. His smile, she noticed, was slightly off center, only adding to his appeal. Her knees weakened as he stood up and pulled out the stool next to his.

She sat down. “Hi,” she said breathlessly.

Patrick had been crazy to encourage this woman. Any minute his sister could walk in and he would have to end things. And he definitely wanted to spend time with this tall, gorgeous woman.

“Hi, yourself. I haven’t seen you in here before,” he said, wishing he could come up with something more clever.

She leaned in close so he could hear her, and he caught a whiff of her intoxicating perfume. “I’m from out of town,” she offered as she stuck out her slender hand. “I’m Cyndi.”

He clasped her small palm in his and immediately felt a warm, sexual charge. He nearly forgot his name. “Patrick.”

Again she leaned in and gave a smile that had him forgetting everything. “Nice to meet you, Patrick.”

He didn’t release her hand, liking how it fitted into his. She didn’t seem to object. “It’s nice to meet you, too.” Suddenly his ringing cell phone broke the spell. “Excuse me.” He pulled it from his pocket and saw that it was his sister. Great, this woman not only made him forget his name but his sister. “Where are you?”

“That’s what I’m calling about, Patrick. I had a flat tire.”

“Tell me where you are and I’ll come and fix it.”

“No, it’s already done. I did it myself. But I’m a mess so I’m on my way back to my apartment. I know you have a long drive back to the ranch, so I didn’t want to hold you up.”

“I thought you needed to talk.”

“I do, but tomorrow’s Saturday, so I’ll just come out to the ranch and we’ll talk then. Is that okay?”

Patrick looked over his shoulder at the sexy redhead beside him. “Sure. I’ll look forward to it.”

“Patrick, I’m going to be bringing along a friend and…I want you to keep an open mind.”

Suddenly Cyndi’s body brushed against him as she made room for more people at the bar. He felt a stirring in his gut and he had to work to keep focused on what Nora was saying. “So I’ll see you then. As you can tell, Morgan’s is noisy as usual.” He said good-bye and pocketed the phone.

Cyndi’s dark, questioning gaze met his. “Your wife?”

He shook his head. “My sister. I’m not married. How about you?”

Smiling, she shook her head and it nearly did him in. There was no way in hell he was going to let her slip away. He tilted his head toward hers to say something, but suddenly the jukebox came to life with another song and patrons raised their voices to be heard. “How long will you be in town?”

She shrugged. “About ten days,” she shouted. “I’m visiting my sister.” She nodded toward the woman at the table. This was perfect. Maybe they could spend some time together while Cynthia was in Portland.

“What do you say we go some place where we can hear ourselves talk?” He found he was holding his breath waiting for an answer.

“Do you know of such a place?”

Hell, he hadn’t done anything like this in years. “There’s a quiet lounge just down the street at the Grand Hotel. We could walk there from here.”

Amazing herself, Cynthia nodded in agreement. Now she just had to convince Kelly that she was perfectly sane. “Just let me tell my sister where I’ll be.”

She walked back to the table to find her sister wasn’t alone. Two men were seated with her and she seemed engrossed in conversation. Cynthia took her aside. “Would you mind if I go and have a quiet drink with Patrick?”

“Cyndi, you don’t have to ask for permission. Besides, he’s sexy as hell. It’s about time you had some fun.”

Cynthia blushed. “We’re just going to the lounge at the Grand Hotel.”

“Then go for it. Nora just called and apologized for not being here. She had car trouble. So we rescheduled for tomorrow, and she wants us to come out to her family’s ranch. She insists if anyone can help you with your fear of horses, it’s her brother.” Kelly cocked an eyebrow. “That means I’m coming by your hotel early.”

Cynthia didn’t want to talk about her fears or her fading career now. “Fine, then I’ll see you tomorrow.” She walked to the door and to Patrick. Tonight she wanted to get lost in this cowboy’s eyes.

Patrick walked through the front door of the historic hotel, following close behind his beautiful date. He’d been to the bar here before, and it was still pretty lively, though a lot quieter than Friday night at Morgan’s Pub.

What he wanted mostly was to find somewhere he could be alone with Cyndi. But the tall, statuesque beauty seemed to draw stares everywhere and she seemed almost shy with the attention. Once inside the lounge, he directed her to a small table in the corner where the light was dim and they could talk without shouting at each other.

He ordered her a glass of wine, and he had another beer. The sound of jazz came through the speakers, but they could at least carry on a conversation. Once the drinks arrived, Patrick had lost his thirst for a cold beer. He wanted Cyndi, and when her hot gaze locked with his, he had no doubt she wanted the same. She leaned forward and whispered, “So, where do we go from here, Patrick?”

Patrick’s eyes never left hers as he closed the short distance between them and covered her mouth with his. Intoxicating. Sweet. Tempting. They were the words that described this woman. Finally he broke off the kiss.

“I think I should just call you Cyn. As in pure sin. That’s what you are. And you’ve been driving me crazy since you walked into Morgan’s.”

“Well, stop wasting time and just kiss me—” The last of her words were swallowed as he captured her mouth once again. This time he ran his tongue over her lips, then delved inside to taste her, mimicking what he wanted to do to her. He released her and sucked much-needed air into his lungs as his lips moved to her ear to nibble. Feeling her shiver, he then returned to her incredible mouth. “I want you.”

The sound of laughter caused them to break off the kiss, and Cyndi buried her head against his neck and whispered, “We just can’t seem to find any place to be alone. Maybe we should go upstairs.”

Patrick froze momentarily as Cyndi raised her head, her whiskey-brown eyes showing her desire. “Oh, baby, don’t tease, I want you too badly.”

“I’m not teasing.” She ran her fingers over his chest. “I want you to make love to me.”

“Give me ten minutes to make the arrangements.” Patrick kissed her quickly, then pulled away. “I’ll meet you in the lobby.”

Patrick had no idea what he’d done to deserve this night, he thought as he handled the check-in. He quickly stopped by the hotel gift shop and picked up some protection. He might be out of his mind for this woman, but he wasn’t crazy. Yes, he was. That was the only thing that explained his impulsive actions, but when he walked back to the lobby to find Cyndi standing by the elevators, all rational thoughts disappeared from his head.

Silently, they rode up to the sixth floor, then got off. Patrick took her hand and laced it with his, and together they walked down the long hall, her body brushing against his and causing an unbearable tingling. Suddenly he pulled her into the ice-machine alcove and took her mouth in a heated kiss.

“Are you sure you want this?”

“I’m sure.”

Her hands moved over his chest and he groaned, then with her arms wrapped against him, they continued their journey. Locating their room, Patrick used the key card and opened the door, allowing Cyndi to go in first. He followed and closed the door behind him. When he turned around, Cyndi pushed him back against the door as her lips met his.

He drank from her sensual mouth, hungry for more. His hands were busy as he ravished her body, and by the time they moved to the bed, her blouse and bra were gone, as was his shirt.

“You’re beautiful,” he said as he worshiped her perfect breasts. Then he dipped his head and laved the hard bud. She whimpered as she held his head against her chest.

Cynthia had never felt like this before. She’d never been so sexually aware of a man, or so aggressive. She couldn’t seem to stop herself as her hands raked over Patrick’s perfectly sculpted body. She went to the zipper on his jeans and tugged it down. He only grinned as he helped her remove his pants.

He stood before her naked. He was perfect. She raised a shaky hand and began to trace his skin on his broad chest, following the swirl of sandy hair that dipped past his waist to his erection. He felt his breathing grow rapid as her hands worked their magic.

Patrick had to stop her. “You are sin.” He grabbed her hands. “My turn.” He opened her zipper and pulled down her jeans. Cynthia kicked off her heeled sandals then stepped out of her pants. With a long, appreciative stare, he finally pressed her back on the bed, causing her fiery hair to flare out against the pillow.

He grabbed a condom from the box and prepared himself, then came to her. He grinned down at her, one small part of him hoping he survived this night. The rest of him not caring. He’d die a happy man. Suddenly he became serious as his desire for her turned to desperation. His hands moved over her body, then between her legs, slipping inside to see that she was wet and ready for him.

“Please, Patrick, I want you,” she cried, squirming against him, her desire and excitement showing in her eyes.

He moved against her body, then whispered in her ear. “I’m going to fill every inch of you, Cyndi,” he promised as he nudged himself between her legs, slipping into her inch by inch.

Cyndi raised her hips and he pushed into her again and again. The bed jerked against the wall, but he didn’t stop. He couldn’t, Cyndi wouldn’t let him. He growled as his hips moved against her writhing body. He plunged and withdrew until he felt her tighten around him. With the next thrust she cried out his name, triggering his climax. He drove into her one more time, then he exploded.

With a groan he collapsed onto her and Cyndi held him close. “That was incredible,” he said.

“Not bad for starters,” she whispered.

Patrick raised his head to catch her teasing smile. “I’m going to make you sorry you said that.” He tickled her ribs and she began to squirm.

“Stop! Stop!” she begged.

He paused. “I thought you wanted more.”

“Then let me clarify that.” She moved against him. “Stop tickling me. Don’t stop touching…kissing…tasting…loving me.”

“My pleasure.” He leaned down and, starting at the top of her sexy body, began to work his way through the list.

Sometime early the next morning, Cynthia realized two things—she was naked in a strange bed, and she wasn’t alone. Her eyes shot open. It was still dark, or at least it was in the room. And the man softly snoring against her ear was the same one she’d had incredible sex with last night…and at two o’clock and again at four. She glanced at the clock to see it was now 5:34 a.m.

She drew a calming breath, but it didn’t help. She drew another and slipped from the bed. She picked her clothes off the floor, quickly put them on and slipped on her shoes, all the while praying that Patrick wasn’t going to wake up.

With her purse in hand, she headed for the door, then paused, hating to leave without saying a word. But what could she say—thanks for the night of incredible sex? And as far as she knew, Patrick didn’t know who she was and she’d like to keep it that way. He took Cyndi to bed, not Cynthia Reynolds. Some things should be left alone.

With a glance over her shoulder, Cynthia allowed herself the pleasure of seeing the near-naked man in bed. He’d been a wonderful lover, but she couldn’t take the chance of spending any more time with this man. Not that she wouldn’t like to, but she had her career to think about.

Cynthia turned and walked out the door. Keeping her head down, she joined an older couple on the elevator. When the woman’s eyes showed recognition, Cynthia tensed.

“Say, are you that actress… What’s her name? Cynthia Reynolds?”

Cynthia shook her head. “You know, I get that all the time. Myself, I don’t see it.” The doors to the lobby opened and Cynthia made her getaway. She hailed a cab back to her hotel. Luckily, she used a private entrance and could get to her private suite without anyone stopping her, wanting to know where she’d been or where she was going. She only had to face her sister in a few hours and convince her that she hadn’t done anything last night that she regretted.

She might have been stupid to make love with Patrick last night, but she’d never regret it.

Two

W ith a groan, Patrick rolled over in bed, his mind filled with erotic images. He blinked, suddenly recalling the sexy woman he’d made love to nearly all night long.

Cyndi. Patrick smiled as he reached out for her, but he found the other side of the bed empty; just her scent lingering on the pillow. He sat up and glanced around the dark room only to discover he was alone. He swung his legs over the side of the mattress. His clothes were still scattered where he’d tossed them, but there was no sign of Cyndi’s things. He got up and walked to check the bathroom. It was deserted, too.

There was no trace of her anywhere. He sank against the doorjamb. “Looks like you’ve been dumped.” Not that he’d had much experience in taking women to hotel rooms, but he hadn’t seen this coming. Especially after what they’d shared last night…just hours ago. It was a blow to his ego, he admitted to himself. He wasn’t planning on carrying this attraction that far anyway, but she didn’t need to run away.

He felt his anger grow as he slipped on his briefs and jeans. Well, the hell with her. He didn’t need the complication anyway. He had the ranch to worry about and it was going to take all his attention when he expanded the vineyard. He sat down and pulled on his boots. And Cyndi No-last-name didn’t fit into those plans. She’d probably done him a favor by leaving. No awkward moments. No regrets. He wasn’t into commitment anyway. Not with the possibility he might inherit his father’s bad habits. Besides, he’d already raised a family—his three sisters. He finally had time to himself.

It had taken him a lot of years to turn the Tanner Ranch into a profitable operation. Added to the cattle, and the breeding and training of horses, he had the Christmas tree farm to watch over. And his dream of the Tanner Vineyard would take all his time and energy, not to mention the money he still had to come up with. Since he didn’t want to use any of the equity in the ranch, he’d been saving every penny.

So he didn’t need distracting thoughts about tall sexy, auburn-haired women. He ran his fingers through his hair and headed out the door. Last night was a night he needed to forget.

Problem was, he doubted he ever would.

The pounding sound grew louder. Cynthia rolled over in bed, hoping it would go away.

“Cyndi, open the door,” her sister called.

Cynthia groaned. She climbed out of bed, went to the door and pulled it open.

“Good, you’re awake,” her sister said as she swept into the large hotel suite.

One of the reasons Cynthia always stayed in a hotel when she visited Portland was so she could have her own space and privacy. What a joke.

Cynthia glanced at the clock. “It’s seven-thirty in the morning. What are you doing here at this ungodly hour?”

“That’s right. And you aren’t dressed.” Kelly examined her. “Looks like you partied a little too hearty last night. How’d it go with the sexy cowboy?”

Cynthia stiffened. “Fine. We had a few drinks and some laughs,” she said. And made love three times, she added silently. “Don’t change the subject. What are you doing here?”

Kelly’s eyes narrowed as she folded her arms. “How could you forget that we’re going out to the Tanner Ranch. You have a date with a nice horse.”

Cynthia groaned. “Not this morning.”

“Yes, this morning. I told Nora we’d be out at the ranch early, so go get dressed.”

“Well, call and tell her we’ll make it another time.”

Kelly took Cyndi’s hand, led her to the sofa and sat her down. “Look, sis, you told me you wanted a chance at that movie. And the only way to get it is to show you can handle a horse. Has that changed since last night?”

Career had always come first for Cyndi, and somehow over the years, it had become her life. Every serious relationship she’d tried had gone sour when she had to go off on location, or the guy couldn’t handle her kissing her leading men, especially when the tabloids blew it up as more. And she’d never met any man who had meant enough to her to give it all up. Yet, last night…Patrick had been the first one in a long time who’d made her think how nice it would be to have someone in her life.

But in the early morning light, she’d panicked.

“Nothing has changed. Give me twenty minutes to get showered and dressed.”

“Not a problem. I’ll call room service for some coffee.” Kelly went to the phone, speaking over her shoulder to Cynthia, “Put on some jeans. I have two pairs of boots for you in the car.”

“Why do I feel like I’ve been had?”

Kelly turned and smiled. “I’m just giving you a little push. You’re a damn good actress and you deserve the part in Cheyenne. I just want to make sure you have every opportunity to get it.”

Cynthia stepped into the large bathroom and turned on the shower. She knew getting the female lead in the movie could jump-start her fading career. She only hoped that Nora’s brother knew what he was doing and had a very gentle horse.

Once in the car, Cynthia thought of a dozen excuses not to go through with this. Right up to the time they drove under the archway to the Tanner Ranch.

The beautiful, serene area seemed to stretch for miles. Against the mountains in the distance, everything was lush and green, still damp from an early-morning shower. White split-rail fences lined either side of the road, and several horses and foals roamed freely in the pastures.

A large yellow two-story house with white shutters came into view. The huge porch was adorned with hanging baskets of colorful flowers, and a swing faced a spectacular view of pine-covered mountains. Kelly drove on and headed to the barn. The white structure had a charcoal-colored roof and huge framed doors that stood open. A man walked out leading a very large horse. Cynthia’s heart began to pound in her chest.

“Come on, let’s go find Nora,” Kelly said.

“Let’s try the house first,” Cynthia suggested, not yet ready to get near a horse.

Just as they got out of the car, a brunette woman exited the house—Nora Tanner, she assumed, from her friendly wave to Kelly. She was about twenty-five and had a petite, shapely body clad in jeans and a cotton T-shirt.

“Hi, Kelly,” the woman said, then turning to Cynthia, she gushed, “Oh, Ms. Reynolds, it’s such a pleasure to meet you.”

“Oh, no, an adoring fan.” Kelly rolled her eyes.

Cynthia ignored her. “Please, call me Cyndi.”

Nora nodded. “Cyndi. I’m so glad you could make it.”

“I’m sure my sister told you that I don’t do very well around horses.”

“I’m sorry to hear that, but I’m happy that you’re going to give riding another chance,” Nora offered. “Welcome to the Tanner Ranch.”

Cynthia heard a horse’s high-pitched whinny. “I’m not sure this is going to work.”

“But you’re here to try,” Nora said.

Cynthia nodded reluctantly.

“Good, you won’t be sorry. My brother is the best with horses, and the best teacher. Let’s go find him.” She headed toward the barn.

Cynthia reluctantly followed her. How could she have let herself be talked into this? Nora went on ahead and talked to a man with dark brown hair and hazel eyes who looked to be in his late thirties. Just their flirtatious demeanor told her they weren’t brother and sister.

“This is Forest. He’s the foreman here. Forest, this is Kelly and Cyndi.”

The cowboy raised his fingers to his hat in a salute. “It’s nice to meet you, ladies.”

Cyndi managed a hello, but was watching the horse in the corral. The shiny coal-black stallion wasn’t docile like the horses she’d seen in the pasture. This animal was prancing around, bobbing his head up and down, whinnying. She couldn’t take her eyes off the magnificent animal.

Forest noticed her interest. “You’ll have to excuse Black Knight, he’s a little…stirred up.” Just then a high-pitched whinny came from the barn. “He’s going to stand in stud today.”

Cyndi didn’t have to live on a ranch to know what that meant. “How nice for him.”

Just then a man’s loud voice came from inside the barn. Nora said, “Don’t let Patrick’s bark scare you off. He’s a real sweetheart. C’mon.” Nora went inside.

Patrick? Cynthia froze. No. It couldn’t be the same man, she told herself.

Kelly nudged her down the cement aisle lined on either side with horse stalls, some empty, some with horses inside that came forward to welcome them. Cynthia could smell a sweet mixture of hay and horses in the immaculate barn.

At the far end a tall man stood with his back to them. Even before he turned around, Cynthia knew who he was. Oh, God. This had to be a bad dream. She quickly took in his blond hair partially covered by a white cowboy hat. It was the same face, the same chiseled jaw that she’d stroked so many times last night, and the same mouth that had done so many incredible things to her during their lovemaking. Finally she raised her gaze and looked into those blue, blue eyes.

Cynthia fought for a breath. She needed her best acting performance to get through this meeting.

Nora’s voice broke through Cynthia’s reverie. “Kelly, Cyndi, I’d like you to meet my brother, Patrick. Patrick, this is my boss, Kelly Reynolds, and her sister, the actress Cynthia Reynolds.”

“Oh, my God,” Kelly said. “You were at Morgan’s last night. You were with—” She gave Cynthia a confused look, then quickly masked it as she turned back to Patrick.

Patrick nodded, fighting to act nonchalant. But too many emotions were churning through him, the most prevalent being anger. So his Cyndi was Cynthia Reynolds. And last night the famous actress had been looking for some entertainment. He’d just been a diversion to her.

“Yeah, I was at the pub. I was supposed to meet Nora, but it seemed she had a flat tire.” He glanced at his sister. “If you want to show your friends around the ranch, it’s not a problem, but I’m breeding the Keefers’ mare this morning.” He shot a hard look at Cynthia as he rubbed the mare’s nose.

“She’s beautiful,” Cyndi said. “What’s her name?”

Patrick had trouble listening to her soft, husky voice. “Suzy Q.” His gaze bored into her startled brown eyes. “Now, if you’ll excuse me…” He started to open the stall.

“Wait, Patrick,” Nora called. “I need to talk with you.” She took him by the arm and started off, but looked back toward Kelly and Cyndi. “Kelly, will you take Cyndi up to the house? I have coffee and Danish in the kitchen. I’ll be up in a few minutes.”

“Maybe we should just go,” Cyndi said. “This wasn’t a good idea.”

“No, it’s fine,” Kelly said. “We’ll be at the house. Nice to meet you, Patrick.”

Patrick watched both women walk off. He wanted to run after Cyndi and demand to know why she hadn’t told him who she was. But he first needed to speak with Nora. He had a feeling that she’d set something up. She usually didn’t bring strangers to the ranch without telling him.

He folded his arms across his chest. “Okay, talk.”

Nora forced a smile. “She’s beautiful, isn’t she?”

“Who?” As if he didn’t know.

“Cynthia Reynolds, that’s who.” She rolled her eyes. “And she came here for help.”

Now all the pieces were starting to fall together. “Was Cynthia the reason for our meeting at Morgan’s last night?”

“Well, kind of.” She wrinkled her nose. “I was hoping that if you met and liked each other, that you would want to help her.”

Oh, brother. He’d helped her all right…and Cyndi had helped him, too. He drew a calming breath. “Just how am I supposed to do that?”

“She has this movie part coming up and it’s a Western and…you need to teach her to ride.”

Great. When did things get so bad that he had to teach a spoiled Hollywood actress to ride a horse? “Like hell. I don’t have the time or the disposition to put up with a demanding actress.” He couldn’t stop the flood of memories of last night. Cyndi was demanding, all right, as a lover, but she had been just as giving. He turned away.

“Patrick, wait. You don’t understand. She’s terrified of horses.”

“Not my problem.”

“She’s willing to pay twenty-five thousand dollars.”

He stopped and stared at his sister. “You’re kidding.”

She shook her head. “I know you normally work with children, but Cyndi needs to be able to ride for this movie. When Kelly told me about it, naturally I thought of you. You are the best.”

Patrick hated it when his baby sister pulled this sweet act. Ever since she was a kid, she’d brought home all kind of strays. He still had two dogs and a cat that she’d rescued. But this… “I have too much to do.”

“I thought your dream was to enlarge the vineyard, to start a winery. Helping Cynthia Reynolds will bring you a lot closer to that goal.”

It would take a long time for Patrick to save that kind of money. But the problem was, could he get past his relationship with Cyndi? Hell, what was he talking about? It was a one-night stand.

“Tell her I’ll give her some time in the afternoon.”

Nora looked funny. “Patrick, she needs more than that. You’ve got to work with her full-time. And this has to be a secret. That means she should live out here.”

“So what exactly happened between the two of you last night?” Kelly asked curiously. “The man didn’t seem to be too happy to see you. And before you deny it, I saw the sparks between you two, but I wasn’t sure if he was going to throttle you or jump your bones.”

Cynthia paced the large farm-style kitchen. Although the room had obviously new maple cabinets and the countertops were tiled in a natural-colored stone, there was a homeyness about the place that was warm and inviting. But no matter how inviting, she wanted to leave, to convince Kelly to take her back to town.

“I never told him who I was last night. We only exchanged first names.” She tucked a wayward strand of hair behind her ear. “What’s the big deal? You encouraged me to share a few drinks and some laughs.”

Last night’s memories were still fresh in her mind, still stirred feelings within Cynthia. She couldn’t believe how much she’d wanted Patrick just hours ago. So much so she couldn’t keep her hands off him. Seeing him again this morning, she realized those feelings hadn’t gone away. Trying to work with Patrick Tanner would be a disaster.

“Are you saying that more happened between you two?” Kelly’s eyes were wide with hope and surprise.

“Since when do we—” Just then the back door opened and Nora walked into the kitchen.

“Sorry to keep you waiting,” she said. “Patrick and I needed to go over some things.” She released a long breath and looked at Cynthia. “My brother wants to talk to you. He’s outside on the porch.”

“Look, Nora, if this is going to cause trouble…” Cynthia began.

“No, he just wants to make sure that you’re serious about learning to ride. And to work out a few details.”

Cynthia nodded. Good. She would straighten this out. She’d tell Patrick Tanner she didn’t need his services and leave. There had to be dozens of instructors who could teach her to ride.

She walked out the door and found him sitting on the back-porch railing. His arms were folded over that gorgeous, broad chest. She shook away the mental picture of Patrick naked, then her gaze connected with his. “Look, Patrick, I’m sorry about last night.”

“What are you sorry about, Cyndi? That you spent the night with me, or that your little joke backfired?”

“It wasn’t a joke. You may not believe it, but I don’t make a habit of going to bed with men I just met.”

He didn’t look like he believed her. “No problem. We used protection.”

Seeing her pained look, Patrick wanted to take back his words.

“How come it’s only my behavior that’s being scrutinized?” she asked. “Is it because I left you first, instead of you leaving me?”

Her fiery question hit home.

He fought back. “How about because you didn’t mention that you’re Cynthia Reynolds? Was that the reason you wanted to leave it at just first names?”

“You ever think maybe my reason was that people act differently around me when they know who I am?” she asked. “You didn’t recognize me. It was nice being myself for a change. You didn’t seem to care who I was.”

Hell, she’d had him so hot he couldn’t remember his own name. “What do we do now?”

She shrugged. “I’ll just tell Kelly and Nora we can’t work things out. Although, I would appreciate it if you gave me the name of someone who can teach me to ride.” She glanced around, not really looking at him.

He could direct her to a half-dozen people, but he doubted she would get results in such a short time. “Nora said you only had ten days and needed to keep this quiet. That if the media gets wind of you taking riding lessons, you could lose the opportunity for this movie.”

“It’s not your problem. Tell your sister thanks and tell my sister that I’ll meet her in the car.”

Before Cyndi could pass him, he reached out for her. Mistake. The hot sizzle from the connection was unbelievable. What he was about to do was another mistake. “I’ll do it. But by my rules.”

Cynthia didn’t pull away, but she didn’t back down either. “What are the rules?”

“We’ll work from early morning until the afternoon. You’ll also be responsible for the care of your horse. There will be no media around, and you’ll move out here for the next ten days.” And he asked for a larger amount of money for his services than she had originally offered just to see how far he could go. He expected her to tell him to go to hell.

“And what if I don’t agree?”

“Then we say goodbye…this time.” Inside he wasn’t sure what he wanted her to do. He knew he didn’t need this distraction, but he still wanted Cyndi. Maybe during the ten days she’d be here, he would get her out of his system.

Cynthia stepped back. “I have one condition of my own. We keep this arrangement strictly business. What happened last night will not happen again.”

We’ll see about that, Patrick thought. “Agreed. Strictly business.” He shook her hand then released it before he broke his promise right here and now. “Talk with Nora and she’ll show you where you’ll be staying.”

He started down the steps toward the barn, then turned. “I’ll be busy most of the day, so you’ll be fending for yourself. But tomorrow I expect to see you in the barn at 6:00 a.m. If you’re not, I’ll figure you’ve changed your mind.”

“Oh, I’ll be there,” she tossed back, a challenging look on her beautiful face. “So be ready to live up to your reputation.”

Three

F our hours later, Cynthia and Kelly returned to the Tanner Ranch from town. Cynthia had brought back her car, along with two suitcases filled with jeans, blouses and a couple of pairs of boots for her stay.

Nora greeted them, then took her to the ranch house, recounting some of the history of the hundred-year-old structure. The place had been remodeled, showing off shiny hardwood floors throughout covered partly by taupe-colored rugs. The large, overstuffed furniture in the main room was done in earth tones and arranged around the stone fireplace and a large television.

“Years ago Patrick knocked out the wall between the dining room and living room,” Nora explained. “He said he needed to keep an eye on all of us girls and this way it was easier.”

“What about your parents?” Cynthia asked, surprised that Nora hadn’t mentioned them.

Sadness flashed in the young girl’s eyes. “They’re dead. My mother passed away when I was about nine and my father a few years later.”

“I’m sorry.” Cynthia knew how it was to be without a father since her parents were divorced, but to lose both would be devastating.

“Thank you. It was tough at first,” Nora explained, “but Jane, Karen and I had Patrick. He was the one who kept the family together, who worked around the clock to save our home. He’d just turned twenty-one when Dad died, and had been handling the ranch long before that.”

Nora managed a shaky smile. “Will you listen to me go on. I’m sure you’re not interested in our family history.”

“Not so. I know what it’s like to be without a parent. Kelly’s and my father left us when I was ten.” Of course it had been better than the nonstop fights, Cynthia remembered sadly.

Just then the back door opened and Patrick walked in carrying her two suitcases. Kelly followed behind him with a small duffel bag. His wary gaze was directed at her. He didn’t say anything, but the meaning was clear. He wasn’t happy she was here.

“I’m putting these in Janie’s old room.”

Kelly handed Cynthia the duffel. “Better go with Patrick and see your accommodations.”

Cynthia reluctantly crossed the room to the wide oak staircase. On the second floor, there was no sign of Patrick Tanner so she continued down the hall, glancing into several of the bedrooms. Each one of them was neat and tidy, adorned with subtle homey touches. So unlike her modern hillside house in LA. Finally she found her host in a soft yellow room with an ivory chenille bedspread covering a canopy bed. Cynthia smiled. She would have given anything to have had a room like this growing up.

At the row of windows across the room Patrick pulled back the floral curtains, then raised the windows, letting in the sweet-smelling country breeze.

Patrick turned around, but he refused to look at Cyndi. What had he done to deserve this? He never brought women to the ranch—to his home. Not since Gwen. Damn. He hated thinking about how stupid he’d been back then. How much it had nearly cost him.

“The bathroom is across the hall,” he instructed her. “Towels are in the cupboard. I don’t have a full-time housekeeper, so you’ll have to make your own bed and clean up after yourself.”

“I can manage that.”

Patrick stole another look and his breath caught in his chest. She was beautiful. Her face, her flawless skin, those expressive eyes. Memories of last night came flooding back. Cyndi’s passion, her eagerness in their lovemaking…then her disappearance. It had never crossed his mind that she was the movie star Cynthia Reynolds.

“Good,” he said, “because no one here has time to wait on you.”

“Patrick, have I made you angry?”

Hell, yes. “No, I’m just busy. I have a mare in season.”

“Please, don’t let me keep you,” she told him without any sarcasm in her tone. “I said I didn’t want any special treatment, and I meant it.”

Cynthia wondered if she would ever again see the Patrick she’d met at Morgan’s. The man who had been so attentive, so loving. She realized she wanted to see that sexy smile of his again.

He gave her a sharp nod. “Sounds good to me,” he said, but remained standing there with his hands on his hips. Those narrow hips attached to those long muscular legs. She let her gaze move upward over his flat stomach, to his broad chest and shoulders, unable to erase the memory of every alluring naked inch of this man.

Her pulse shot off, racing. Staying here for the next ten days was going to be torture. If this movie role wasn’t so important, she wouldn’t be here.

She picked up one of her suitcases and tossed it on the bed just as Nora and Kelly came in, nearly running into Patrick as he tried to get out the door.

Nora called to him, “Patrick, I’m cooking a tri-tip roast for dinner so be on time.”

He mumbled something impossible to understand, then all they heard were footsteps on the stairs.

“Oh, Cyndi, I had another room picked out for you,” Nora said as she glanced around. “I don’t know why my brother put you here. We can move you.”

“No, this is fine. I think we’ve disturbed Patrick enough for one day. I’m going to try and do exactly what he wants.” She glanced at her sister. “And you, I’m not finished with you. You didn’t even give me a chance to decide what I wanted to do. I’m not sure I can handle this.”

Kelly didn’t seem fazed as she helped unpack the clothes, putting things inside the dresser drawers. “If I’d waited, the movie role would have been gone before you decided to get near a horse again.”

Cynthia took out her cosmetic bag along with her bottle of NoWait oil. She glanced at Nora. “Is she like this at the office? If so, I feel sorry for you.”

Nora smiled. “I thought my sisters and I were the only ones who argued like this. I’m the baby so I have no sympathy for older sisters. I got bossed around by everyone.”

“Yeah, but I bet you were spoiled, too,” Cynthia said, glaring at Kelly. “Just remember all the mistakes are made on the oldest child.”

“And I got all your hand-me-downs,” Kelly tossed back.

Cynthia knew that Kelly wasn’t just talking about clothes. During their teenage years they’d shared a few boyfriends, too. She surprised herself by saying, “Not anymore.”

Kelly grinned. “I guess there are some things we need to put off-limits.”

Cynthia wondered what had gotten into her. Had she gotten territorial over Patrick? She shook away the thought, knowing she needed to concentrate on her challenge of learning to ride.

But which one was going to give her the most trouble—the horse or the man?

After dinner, Patrick stood out on the back porch watching a light rain wash over the mountains. Billowy clouds clung to the peak, hiding the last of the day’s sun. He loved this time. The end of a busy day, when his body felt a satisfied tiredness, which meant he’d accomplished a lot. And he had. If everything went as planned, the mare Black Knight had covered today would soon test pregnant.

Later that afternoon, he and Forest had ridden out to check fences and the herd. The cows and the new calves were doing fine. Then they went on to the west section to check the ten acres of rootstock vines they’d planted last spring. And finally he’d made it home in time to have a great dinner.

He liked having his sister home and he loved her cooking. With Nora working in Portland she hadn’t been able to get out to the ranch much. That meant he was usually all alone. Not that he got lonely. He had plenty to keep him busy. And that was the way he liked it.

Old memories rushed into his head. Aside from his sisters it had been years since he’d shared his life with anyone. Not since Gwen had ripped out his heart and nearly bankrupted him. He’d wanted a wife, a second mother for the girls, especially someone to love. But she had played him for a fool.

Since then, Patrick had decided that he didn’t need the hassle or heartache. After striking out with Gwen, he realized he wasn’t cut out for relationships. So he kept any associations with women short, nothing serious, nothing permanent. And he’d let them know the score by the second date. But waking up this morning in the hotel room alone meant he’d never get the chance for that.

Now he needed to stop remembering his incredible night with Cynthia Reynolds. His body suddenly stirred to life and he cursed his weakness. How was he going to handle having this woman around, sharing his home…his life?

Just then the door opened and Cyndi, Kelly and Nora walked out onto the porch. Nora came up to him. “Patrick, Kelly and I are headed back to town, unless you need anything.”

My solitary life back, Patrick thought as he shook his head. “I can’t think of a thing.” He leaned down so his sister could kiss him goodbye.

“Then I guess I’ll be going.” She looked him in the eye. “Behave yourself. I’ll call you tomorrow.”

Kelly and Cyndi hugged, then she and Nora walked to their cars. Cyndi waved until they drove off, then turned to Patrick.

“Would you mind if I stayed out here for a while? I’m a little too restless to sleep.”

Yeah, he knew the feeling. “It’s a free country.”

Cynthia leaned against the post and looked toward the barn. This wasn’t going to be easy, especially since she couldn’t seem to push aside the feelings this man churned up in her. “You own a beautiful piece of Oregon, Patrick.”

“I know. Wouldn’t live anywhere else.”

Cynthia knew she should go up to her room, but the draw to him was magnetic. She couldn’t stop the need she felt to rediscover this handsome man with the killer eyes, sexy grin and to-die-for mouth. She moved closer and could feel his heat, smell his fresh soap scent.

“Nora said you’ve lived here all your life.”

He gave her a stiff nod. “True.”

“That’s nice,” she said. “After my parents divorced, our mother moved us all to L.A.” She remembered the endless crummy apartments in bad neighborhoods. As a twelve-year-old kid, she’d dreamed of a house and no money problems.

But Carol Reynolds hadn’t been good at handling money, a job and kids. She was never meant to be without a man. If only she’d known how to pick the right ones. After two more bad marriages, her mother had wisely chosen to stay single. Why not? Her oldest daughter made sure she’d been taken care of. Cynthia had made a lot of money in her career, even if she never worked again.

“I was there once,” Patrick’s voice broke into her reverie. “Hated the place. Too many cars and people.”

“That’s true. I don’t like to drive around on the freeways, either.” She glanced toward the shadow of the mountains. “Like I said, you live in a great place.”

“Well, it may be a great place but we start early in the morning. So you need to get to bed.”

He started to move away, and something made her touch his arm to stop him.

“Please, not yet,” she whispered, not willing to end it. “It’s barely dark.”

Cynthia’s heart began to race when he gazed into her eyes. “You’re right.” His warm breath caressed her face. “It’s not nearly dark enough. I can still see the fiery highlights in your hair.” His gaze lowered. “And your sexy mouth.”

The rush of pleasure his words caused was so intense she couldn’t speak or resist when he reached for her and jerked her against him. Then he leaned down and took teasing bites from her lower lip. “Damn, you’re too tempting.”

She whimpered and her fingers gripped his shoulders.

His sapphire eyes met hers. “Want more?”

Cynthia’s throaty whisper was barely audible, but he heard her. When he closed his mouth over hers, the muscles in her legs were suddenly nonexistent. But Patrick held on to her as his mouth moved over hers. His tongue slipped inside and rubbed against hers, recreating flashes of their night together. His touch, his mouth, his… Suddenly he released her and stepped back. His eyes were dark and intense.

“If you think this is going to make tomorrow easier, think again,” he whispered. “So you better get some sleep.” He turned and walked off the porch toward the barn.

Cynthia was still trying to catch her breath. What had gotten into her? What was it about this man that made her want her hands on him all the time? She’d never thrown herself at a man before. She raked her fingers through her hair. Well, she’d better think of a way to control herself and remember why she was here. To learn to ride.

She turned and headed inside the house. She doubted she’d be dreaming about horses tonight.

Patrick wasn’t in a good mood the next morning. He’d been up by five to do chores, even though he hadn’t slept much at all, not after kissing Cyndi. He’d lain awake, unable to get her out of his head.

He checked his watch. It was six o’clock and time to meet his student. He headed to the barn for the first lesson, but he doubted that Cynthia Reynolds was even out of bed yet. He groaned. The picture of the sexy redhead in tumbled sheets was not something he needed to think about. At least it meant that he could send her packing and out of his life. Then he could get back to normal.

Patrick walked into the barn and stopped when he saw his student standing in the center aisle. Dressed in worn jeans and a pink blouse, she looked too damn good for this early.

“Am I on time?” she asked.

“You’re fine.” He ignored her cheerfulness, trying to stay down to business. “Follow me,” he said and walked to a stall. A camel-colored horse with a white star on her forehead immediately came to the gate. Cyndi stopped about ten feet back and her face turned pale.

Patrick frowned. “What happened to you?”

“What do you mean?”

“What’s the reason you’re so terrified of horses?”

She shrugged. “A horse is a big animal.”

“Yeah.” He petted the animal. “But something else happened to make you look like you’re going to pass out. And if you want to ride, you better tell me what I’m dealing with.”

Cyndi let out a breath. “When I was six, my dad took us to his family’s farm in Missouri. He thought it was time that I learned to ride. All I can remember was that the horse was huge, but my dad still put me in the saddle. I begged him to take me off. He told me not to be a baby. The animal started moving sideways and I screamed when I lost control and ended up falling off. I broke my leg…and ruined the family vacation.”

“I’d say your dad was a fool. Sounds like the horse wasn’t used to kids.” He went to the gate and rubbed the mare’s nose. “Daisy isn’t like that. She’s the sweetest animal here. All my sisters learned to ride on her. Isn’t that so, sweetie?” He crooned to the horse, but when he glanced at Cyndi she didn’t looked convinced. “Look, I’m not going to force you to do anything. Maybe you’re not ready to get on a horse today. The first step is to get used to your mount. So come here and just pet Daisy.”

Surprisingly Cyndi did as he asked, came closer and reached out a shaky hand. Patrick took her sweaty palm and placed it against Daisy’s forehead. The animal obviously welcomed the attention. “See, she likes it.”

Cyndi smiled and Patrick felt it all the way to his toes as she continued the stroking.

“You’re such a pretty horse,” she said.

Daisy bobbed her head and they both laughed.

“I’d suggest you take this slow, but you only have ten days. Now, I have no idea what horses they’ll be using in the movie, but if you learn what to do and what not to do around a horse, that should help you.”

Cyndi nodded. “At this point, anything would help me.”

“You have to know that animals sense your fear, but a little respect is a good thing. As you mentioned, horses are a lot bigger than we are. I’ve trained all the horses on the ranch and I’ve never raised a hand or a whip to any of them. I find they respond better to a gentle touch and my voice.”

Cynthia already knew firsthand about Patrick’s gentle touch. She blinked away the memory and turned back to Daisy. “I can do that.”

“Good,” he said, then smiled. “For the next ten days the two of you are going to spend a lot of time together. You’ll be Daisy’s sole caretaker. You’ll not only be riding her, you’ll feed her, groom her and clean her stall.” His blue eyes locked with hers. “If you can’t handle that, now is the time to let me know.”

Cynthia knew he was giving her a chance to quit. Not to say she hadn’t thought a lot about it during the night. She could walk away, go back to Hollywood and find another movie. No! She wanted this one. She wanted the role in Cheyenne.

“Show me what to do.”

“First, you and Daisy need to get familiar with each other. She has to get used to your voice, your commands. You two need to become friends.”

Cynthia followed Patrick to a room at the end of the barn. Inside, the scent of leather and polish was overwhelming but pleasant. She glanced around at the dozens of saddles atop sawhorses, and walls lined with bridles and halters.

“Later on you’ll come in here to get Daisy’s tack, so you’re going to have to know where to put everything back where it belongs.” He took a leather halter from a hook, then went to one of the saddles with beautiful hand tooling. “When the time comes, this will be the saddle you’ll use. And you have to be strong enough to get it on Daisy.”

She nodded, then followed Patrick back to Daisy’s stall. He opened the gate and went inside. He ran his hand over the horse, speaking softly as he examined her, then slipped the harness on. “Watch how I’m doing this because tomorrow I’m going to expect you to be able to handle it.”

“What if I can’t?” she asked.

He stopped what he was doing and studied her a moment. “If I didn’t think you could do this, I never would’ve considered taking you on.”

“You’re doing just fine,” Patrick said as he watched Cyndi lead Daisy around the corral. He could see her uneasiness, but she was toughing it out and doing everything he’d asked of her. The old mare was a trouper, too. She could put up with nearly anything as long as she got some attention.

“Talk to her,” Patrick coaxed. “Daisy will respond to your voice.”

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