THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME…

Single dad Kase Rawlins wants to give his little girl, Addy, a fresh start in life by moving back to the family ranch. The only downside to that plan is seeing his neighbor Laurel Quinn every day—his first love and the woman he walked away from.

After being jilted at the altar, Laurel decided to focus her attention on training and breeding her quarter horses. But being around Kase, she’s finding her heart is being stolen once again, and not just by the rugged rancher. Because it seems Addy’s mission is to make Laurel her new mommy!

His heart was breaking into a thousand pieces.

He reached out and stroked her hair. “Do you know how special you are?”

She shrugged. “My parents tell me all the time.”

“Well, let me tell you something, too. You’re a woman I desire very much.” He touched her face. “I want you, Laurel. We may have some obstacles in our way, but that’s not going to stop me.” He brushed his mouth over hers and loved hearing her intake of breath. “I wish I could offer you more, but right now…”

She placed her lips against his. When she finally broke off the kiss, she said, “No promises, Kase. That way no one has any expectations. I’m here for you and Addy. So it’s all good for now.”

He wanted more. Not the girl he once knew, but the beautiful, giving woman she’d turned into. Would she give him a second chance? His thoughts turned to his daughter. Would he get that second chance to be a father? He cradled Laurel’s head against his chest. How he prayed he didn’t let either one of them down.

Dear Reader,

This story is connected to my previous book, Count on a Cowboy, and is about the other twin sister, Laurel. She’s the rancher’s daughter, the sister who grew up with the advantage of having both a mother and a father. She trains quarter horses for a living. It seems she had everything. Even her twin, Brooke, came looking for her, and now they have a wonderful relationship.

The one thing Laurel didn’t have was the man she loved. Ten years ago, Kase Rawlins left her when he went off to college to be a lawyer. She tried to forget him, and even planned to marry another man.

Then Kase walks back into her life, and he doesn’t come alone. The widower father brings his cute four-year-old daughter, Addy. That’s so unfair! What is also unfair is Kase’s in-laws want custody of their grandchild. He needs Laurel, and so does his daughter. Could they finally find their way back and make a life? Will Laurel be able trust the man again?

I hope you enjoy the read.

Second Chance Rancher

Patricia Thayer

www.millsandboon.co.uk

PATRICIA THAYER was born and raised in Muncie, Indiana, the second in a family of eight children. She attended Ball State University before heading west, where she has called Southern California home for many years. There she’s been a member of the Orange County Chapter of RWA. It’s a sisterhood like no other.

When not working on a story, she might be found traveling the United States and Europe, taking in the scenery and doing story research while enjoying time with her husband, Steve. Together, they have three grown sons and four grandsons and one granddaughter, whom Patricia calls her own true-life heroes.

To my readers who have faithfully read me

over the years. You are the reason this story

is my 50th book for Harlequin.

And always to Steve.

My dad might have been my first hero,

but you are my forever hero.

Love you.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

Dear Reader

Title Page

About the Author

Dedication

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Epilogue

Extract

Copyright

Chapter One

Laurel Quinn drove the all-terrain vehicle over the rough pasture at the Bucking Q Ranch. The ATV was ideal for getting around in the hilly pastureland. In the Colorado winters, the ranch hands had to switch to snowmobiles to find lost cattle. Today, she wasn’t looking for lost calves, but for one runaway stallion. Gripping the steering wheel tighter, she flew over a rise but still kept an eye peeled for the honey-brown-colored quarter horse.

Sadly, she seemed to have trouble keeping a male, no matter what the species. Right now, though, she had to focus all her attention on the valuable horse, Capture the Wind.

A stallion was always harder to train, and to keep confined, especially when a mare was in season. And this guy was double the trouble. She’d been thinking about gelding the golden-brown bay if he kept escaping. It was a good thing he’d made some money for his stud service. That was the only thing that saved his sorry hide. She was anxious to see his first foals. Then his price would go up.

She drove through a group of aspen trees and looked upward at the cloud-speckled sky above the familiar green and brown hues of the Rocky Mountains. Off in the distance were the familiar granite peaks of the Maroon Bell. She loved springtime on the ranch. Nature came to life with new growth and new births. Soon, her newly found twin sister, Brooke, and her husband, neighboring rancher Trent Landry, would be having their first child. A son. They were going to name him Christopher after Trent’s brother, who’d died in a tragic accident years ago. Although a little envious, she was happy for her sister.

Off in the distance, Laurel spotted the downed fence and slowed the ATV. With a curse, she reached for her cell phone and called the Bucking Q barn. This job was going to be more difficult than she thought. Then she realized this was a border fence. Her horse was now on Rawlins property.

The ranch foreman answered, “Chet Bradshaw.”

“Hey, Chet, it’s Laurel. Looks like Wind got over the fence in the south pasture. The posts are rotted out, so could you send out a couple of the guys to repair them? It’s about a mile south of Rainbow Canyon.”

“Wait for me. I’ll bring Billy along because I don’t want you tangling with the stallion alone.”

She wasn’t as worried about the horse as the neighbors. “First, I’ve got to find him.” She heard a loud whinny off in the distance. “Gotta go.”

She tossed her phone on the seat, then eased her vehicle through the opening in the fence. She didn’t think about her trespassing onto Rawlins land, or the fact that the last person she wanted to run into was Kase. She’d known for a while that the prodigal son had returned home.

Wind whinnied again, and she shot off toward the corral, not knowing if the stallion was injured or trapped or what. All she knew was she had to get to her horse. Her future depended on this animal.

At one time, she’d known the Rawlins Horse Ranch as well as her dad’s ranch. Gus Rawlins had taught her nearly everything she knew about equines. Then that day ten years ago she’d had her heart broken by Kase... She shook away the memory. Those days were long gone.

She drove over the uneven ground, praying Wind hadn’t been hurt or caused any more trouble. Maybe if she were lucky, she’d find him before anyone discovered her on the property.

She heard the familiar whinny again. She drove over the rise to see a corral and there was her horse, his black mane and tail flying as he pranced around the arena as if he owned the place.

Then she turned her attention to another horse. A glistening chestnut...mare. Oh, no.

She hit the gas pedal and raced down the hill, hoping to prevent what she knew was about to happen. She stopped at the broken boards of the fence, grabbed Wind’s lead rope off the seat and climbed through the splintered wood. She yelled and waved her arms, but nothing could stop the crazed stallion. Wind raised up on his hind legs and quickly mounted the willing mare. Laurel stuck her fingers in her mouth and let go of a loud whistle as if that would stop this act of nature. Not. “Damn!”

All she could do was stand back out of the way. There was no finesse about animals mating. They were loud and sometimes brutal as the powerful stallion’s forelegs gripped the mare’s sides and he drove into her body several times.

Once Wind finished, he dropped back from the other horse. He threw his head back and released a soft whinny, then sauntered over toward her as if he had just taken a stroll in the park.

She attached the lead rope to Wind’s halter. He blew out a loud breath. “Now you come to me.”

“It seemed he was a little busy before.”

Laurel swung around to see the tall, handsome man. His sandy-brown hair under his black cowboy hat was shorter than she remembered, but his deep-set gray eyes could still mesmerize her. The worst thing possible, Kase Rawlins could still make her heart race. She cursed under her breath.

“Kase? What are you doing here?”

He folded his large arms over his chest. “I live here.” He walked over to the mare, examined her quickly, took hold of the horse’s halter and walked her to one of the ranch hands. Once the mare was in the barn, he came back to her. With a nod toward her stallion, he said, “I take it this guy belongs to you.”

Laurel nodded, unable to make eye contact. It had been ten years since her first love took off for college and never came back. “This is Capture the Wind. I’m so sorry about what happened. He got away from my handler. I came after him...but not in time.”

“You should be sorry.” He nodded toward the horse headed through the barn door. “We had plans to breed Honor’s Promise. Even paid the stud fee.”

She definitely didn’t have the money to repay him right now. “Well, I didn’t plan this, either. And if it’s any consolation, Wind is registered, and he gets a substantial stud fee.” Which was a stretch, since he hadn’t sired any foals. Yet. She’d had him only a few months, but her mare, Starr Gazer, her best cutter, was pregnant.

He blinked those steel-gray eyes at her. “You don’t expect me to pay for what just happened here.”

She tossed her long braid over her shoulder and jammed her hands on her hips. “Of course not, but don’t insult Wind like he’s some mongrel horse that runs wild.”

Kase couldn’t believe Laurel Quinn would show up here of all places. His gaze couldn’t help but wander over the girl he once knew. It seemed like a million years ago when he was young and arrogant. There was still that deep fire in her green eyes. Damn, if it didn’t have him thinking about all the times they’d been together. Also their last argument before he’d left Hidden Springs.

Laurel had been only eighteen then. She might still have that long braid, but she definitely was a woman now. His gaze moved over her body, full breasts and long, shapely legs. He had no business thinking about her, or any woman, right now.

“I have no clue to the bloodline of this stallion.”

“Well, believe me, he has an impressive pedigree.”

“Too bad he doesn’t have any manners.”

Kase eyed the magnificent stallion. At least sixteen hands, he had a rich golden-brown coat and black mane and tail. And was cocky as hell. This might be a good thing. Of course, he wasn’t the expert. That would be his dad.

The large animal danced sideways, but Laurel managed to hang on to the lead rope. He would offer to help her with the horse, but he knew she’d turn him down.

“I’ll pay for any damages to the fence.”

“Good, I’ll send you a bill.” He’d planned to repair the rotted wood that had been neglected the past few years. There had been several things around here that needed attention. Now that he had the time, he planned to get to them. “You still live at home?”

She straightened. “I live at the ranch. I have an apartment over the garage. I breed and train horses there, so being close to my horses is important.” She flashed those big green eyes at him. “So how long are you staying?”

He hesitated, not sure how much he wanted to tell her. “Not sure... I need to help Dad with the ranch.” Maybe by then, he’d figure out what to do with his life and handle the problems he’d left back in the city.

He saw Laurel’s surprise. There had been a time when he’d sworn he would never set foot on this ranch again. He was going to be a big-time lawyer and make a name for himself. Well, that dream had cost him dearly, and it’d cost Addy even more.

“But I thought... Aren’t you practicing law in Denver?”

“Not at the moment. I’m taking some time off.”

She glanced around. “Is Gus okay?”

In a town the size of Hidden Springs, there weren’t many secrets. “He needs hip surgery. So he will be out of commission for a while. I came back to stay and help out.”

He couldn’t stop watching as she stroked the stallion. This wild beast had suddenly become docile with her touch. He remembered those hands on him... His attention went to her mouth. At eighteen she hadn’t been experienced with anything but horses. Yet her innocent kisses had turned him inside out.

He’d heard at the local diner that she’d nearly gotten married a few months back. Then the bridegroom had run off with her heart and the family’s money.

“Daddy! Daddy!”

Kase turned to see his father, Gus, bracing his four-year-old daughter, Addison, on the middle rung of the corral fence. Addy had sunny-yellow hair that lay in ringlets against her tiny shoulders. Several curls had escaped, probably because he couldn’t fasten the clips correctly. Her blue-gray eyes were wide with excitement, and her big smile melted his heart. She’d been wearing jeans, T-shirts and new cowboy boots since they’d arrived home. She told him she was a cowgirl now.

“Hey, sweetie. What are you doing out here?”

“Papa said I could come out if I stayed out of the way.”

He looked at his dad. The cagey old guy had a grin on his weathered face. “We saw you had company and we wanted to come out and say hi. Didn’t we, sweet pea?”

His daughter’s head bobbed up and down. “And to see the pretty horsey.”

He wasn’t sure if he was ready for this introduction, but he might as well get it over with. “That’s Capture the Wind, sweetie.”

Addy’s attention went to Laurel. “Who’s the lady, Daddy?”

He glanced over his shoulder to see Laurel’s surprised look. “This is Laurel Quinn, our neighbor and the owner of the horse. Laurel, this is my daughter, Addison Marie Rawlins.”

Addy waved. “Hi, Laurel. I’m four years old.”

“Hi, Addy.” Laurel finally smiled back. “I’m twenty-eight.”

“Laurel, can I pet your horsey?”

Gus nodded toward Wind. “I wouldn’t mind a closer look at that animal myself.”

Laurel looked at Kase, and at his nod she tugged on the reins and started across the corral. “You stay right there and I’ll bring him to you.” Then she said to the stallion, “Mind your manners.”

Kase watched Laurel’s movements as she walked the large animal across the corral. She matched the spirited animal with her long strides. No doubt she was the boss and Wind was doing her bidding. He followed her like a gentle lamb.

Of course, he was more interested in the woman. Captivated by those long legs and full hips encased in a pair of faded jeans. She still wore the standard cowboy uniform, manure-caked boots and that old battered straw cowboy hat. She was a working cowgirl, and everything he’d never wanted. Then why did she still get to him?

Laurel was nervous. A few months ago, she’d heard that Kase was back in town. She thought it was for only a short visit. It was hard to believe the big-time Denver lawyer had moved his entire family back here. No sign of his wife—maybe she’d stayed in Denver.

She put on a smile and looked at Gus. “Hi, Gus.”

“Hey there, Laurel. Haven’t seen you in a long time.”

She nodded. “A few years.”

“You’re still as pretty as a picture, and I hear good things about you and your horses.”

“Thank you. This guy might get me to change my mind.” She patted Wind’s neck. “So sorry about what happened. I can guarantee if your mare ends up pregnant, you won’t be disappointed. If so, I’ll buy the foal.”

“Whoa, darlin’, let’s wait and see what the outcome of today is first,” Kase said.

“Papa, is the horsey going to have a baby?”

“We’ll see.”

The girl clapped her hands. “I hope so.”

Addy reached out and petted Wind. “Your horsey is pretty.”

“Well, that’s the only thing saving him right now. But he’s still in trouble because he ran off and broke down a fence.”

“Are you gonna put him in a time-out?”

She smiled. “I should, but I’m not sure he’ll understand that he did anything wrong. Horses are different from people.”

Addy smiled. “I’m glad because Wind is a good horsey and he’s soft.” The horse bobbed his head as if to agree. The girl continued to stroke the animal without fear. “Papa Gus says you should never treat animals bad.”

The child’s blue eyes were so expressive. “Do you have any little girls that I can play with?”

Laurel felt a pang of envy and avoided making eye contact with Kase. “No, I don’t have any children.”

“Oh.” Her lower lip came out in a pout. “I got twin Bitty Baby dolls for my birthday. You want to see them?”

She started to decline when Kase stepped in and said, “Laurel can’t stay today. She has to take her horse back home. Maybe another time.”

She didn’t like anyone answering for her. Just then she saw Chet riding over the rise toward them. “Seems I’m not so busy after all. I’ll come see your dollies.”

“Yeah!” Addy cried.

She avoided looking at Kase but could feel his disdain. “Let me send Wind home with Chet.” She led her horse through the downed fence and handed the reins to the foreman. “Hey, Chet.”

The young man smiled atop his big black gelding. “So you caught the bad boy.”

“Not before he did the damage, and I’m not talking about the fence.” She told him about the mare and Chet laughed.

“It’s not funny,” she argued, but found herself smiling, too. What choice did she have? It had been the way her life had been going lately. Now she was here with the once love of her life.

Chet looked up and studied the threesome at the fence. “Is that Kase Rawlins?”

Laurel avoided eye contact. “Yeah, and his little girl.”

The ranch foreman frowned. “Do you think it’s a good idea that you’re staying?”

Chet was in his midthirties, and he’d been around the Bucking Q since he was a teenager, as far back as when Kase had left. “I appreciate your concern, Chet, but I’m a big girl. So do me a favor, and take Wind back to the barn, and I’ll be home in an hour.”

She waved and headed back toward the man who’d walked out of her life without a second glance. So why was she putting herself through this again? Good question. Even after all these years, she couldn’t think of an answer when it came to Kase Rawlins.

Chapter Two

Questioning her lack of common sense, Laurel followed Addy into the brightly painted lavender bedroom. The centerpiece was a glossy white canopy covered with a floral comforter and lined with stuffed animals.

She smiled at the perfect little-girl’s room. And she didn’t need to be here. She didn’t need to be reminded of everything she didn’t have in her life. A home and family of her own. One of the main reasons she wanted to marry last fall, even if she’d chosen the wrong man. A sudden thought popped into her head. Where was this child’s mother?

“This is Bobby. Her name is Bonnie,” Addy said as she pointed to the two baby dolls sitting on the windowsill.

Laurel sat down beside the child. “Oh, they’re so precious.” She looked at Addy. “Could I hold one?”

With Addy’s enthusiastic nod, Laurel carefully picked up Bobby and cuddled the doll close. “He looks like a real baby.”

A pleased-looking Addy followed Laurel’s example and reached for the other doll. “I pretend Bobby is my little brother and Bonnie is my sister so I won’t be all by myself.” The light went out of her eyes that were so much like her father’s. “’Cause sometimes I get scared.”

Laurel understood the girl’s feelings. She’d been an only child until a few months ago when her twin sister, Brooke, had shown up at her door. Best day of her life.

“Maybe you’ll get your wish and your parents will have another baby someday.” Why did she hate the thought of Kase with another woman? It had been years since he’d left here, and since he’d left her.

Addy looked at her with tears in her eyes. “We can’t have any more babies...’cause my mommy died.”

Oh, my God. She hadn’t heard that bit of news. “Oh, sweetheart, I’m so sorry.” Laurel reached for the tiny girl and pulled her into her arms. Warmth spread through her as she inhaled the soft powdery scent of a sobbing Addy. Her heart ached for the child, wishing she could help her more.

Finally the girl stopped crying, but Laurel continued to rub her back. “You are lucky you have your dad and your grandpa to take care of you.”

Addy raised her head. “My daddy loves me and so does Papa.” Her lips trembled again. “But my mommy didn’t.”

“Oh, Addy, that’s not true.”

The little girl brushed away tears from her cheeks and nodded. “She said I was a bad little girl. Then she went away and never came back.”

Kase stood outside his daughter’s bedroom, his fists clenched at his sides as he listened to the conversation. Damn you, Johanna. Yet his wife didn’t deserve all the blame. He hadn’t been around for his daughter, either. He was ashamed he’d allowed the abuse to happen. What kind of father did that make him?

Then he heard Laurel’s soothing voice. “I can’t imagine you were ever a bad girl, Addy. Look how nice you treat your dollies. I bet your mother was just having a bad day.”

He stole another glance inside to see Laurel brush back his child’s hair gently. “We all have bad days,” she repeated.

Addy sat up and Laurel used the bottom of her shirt to wipe away the child’s tears.

“So Mommy didn’t mean it?” Addy asked.

“Of course not. She was probably tired. I’m sure she would be so proud of you for being such a good girl for your daddy.”

“I am, ’cause he’s so sad. I’m good for Papa Gus, too. I help him with the dishes, and I go get things ’cause his hip hurts a lot.”

“What a good helper you are. And you’re only four years old.”

Kase’s heart tripped at the sight of his daughter’s sudden smile. He moved out of view but listened to the sound of their laughter. Guilt washed over him, thinking about all the selfish choices he’d made in the past ten years. And it’d all started with Laurel Quinn.

* * *

AFTER PULLING HIMSELF TOGETHER, Kase headed back downstairs. If he didn’t have enough to deal with, there was now this to go with his daughter’s adjustment to living here, the legal fight with his in-laws and his father’s hip surgery.

Besides facing the possibility of a pregnant mare, Laurel was in this house. Pretty Laurel Quinn had been his girlfriend when they both were in high school. There had been a time when she’d spent more time here than at her house, especially that last summer before he’d gone off to college. Their relationship lasted for a little while longer until he realized that Laurel would never want the same things he did. He came home for holiday break and ended it soon after.

He shook away the memory of that day when he’d told her goodbye. Several times in the past few years, he’d questioned his decisions, but he couldn’t change them. Now he was back to square one, and living in Hidden Springs again.

Since being back, he’d expected to run into Laurel occasionally, just not having her dumped on his doorstep. And not looking so fresh and pretty, and with a shapely body wrapped up in a pair of snug jeans and a Henley shirt. She’d turned his head a long time ago and nearly kept him from his dream. He couldn’t let it happen again, even if they were tied together with a possible foal.

Kase walked into the small country kitchen and looked around to see the sorry shape of the room. The peeling paint on the walls was the same color as when he left, along with the worn vinyl floor and ancient appliances. If he was going to be home, he needed to do some remodeling.

His father turned from the counter, carrying two mugs of coffee. The older man made his way across the kitchen, his limp more pronounced than earlier. He probably hadn’t taken any pain pills. Stubborn man.

Kase went to him. “Here, let me get those.”

His father glared. “Getting out of my way is the only help I need, thank you.”

Meeting his steely-gray gaze, Kase quickly moved out of the way.

At sixty-five, Gus Rawlins was tall and still slender. His face was weathered from years in the sun and his gray hair was thinning under the battered cowboy hat he wore at all times, except inside. He had a bum hip from his rodeo days long ago, then the years in the saddle, training his quarter horse.

Gus made his way to the kitchen table without spilling a drop. He sat down and doctored his coffee with cream and sugar.

His father nodded toward him. “Aren’t you going to drink yours?”

Kase took a sip, then asked, “How do you feel about what happened with Honor’s Promise?”

The old man tried to hide his grin behind his mug. “I’ve heard good things about that stallion. If I’d been able, I’d have bought that animal myself. We might just get a good colt out of this...accident.” His father raised an eyebrow. “Question is, how do you feel about Laurel being here?”

He shrugged. “We have some history, but that was years ago.”

“All that money spent on your law school paid off,” his father said. “You’ve gotten pretty good at dodging a question.”

Kase refused to rise to the bait.

His father took a hearty sip. “All I know is the smile I saw on that little girl’s face and it made my day. And Laurel Quinn was the cause of that.”

“What about the fact you and the Quinns are dreaded enemies?”

Gus waved a hand. “Things have changed with the passing of the years. The last time Rory and I talked we couldn’t seem to remember what all the hoopla was about.”

Kase blinked in surprise. “It was about land boundaries, which isn’t hoopla.”

His father glared. “Well, it’s settled now. All legal, too. Had a lawyer draw up papers and everything.”

Kase tensed. “You had a lawyer? Dad, I’m your lawyer, and your son. Should I have known about this?”

Gus directed his gaze at him. “I did contact you,” he insisted. “I called your house and talked to your wife, Johanna. She said she’d let you know, but you never called me back.” He shrugged. “I figured you were too busy, so we used Rory’s lawyer.”

Kase cursed, but the fact was he hadn’t been home much. He’d been working twelve-hour days and weekends, trying to make partner. And when he was home, he fought with Johanna. “I’m sorry, Dad. I never got the message.”

“It’s not important now.”

“The hell it isn’t. Dammit, Johanna had no business in keeping your call from me.”

Gus raised his hand. “I won’t speak ill of the dead, and she was your wife.”

If his father only knew. Kase sighed. “And she was Addy’s mother, too.” That had been what Gus had done over the years after Kase’s mother left them. He’d never breathed a bad word about Liz Rawlins.

Gus nodded, then he abruptly changed the subject. “So what do you think of Laurel?”

He wasn’t ready to talk about this. “What’s to think about?”

“Maybe how pretty she is? And how she’s building a pretty good reputation around here with her training horses.”

Kase didn’t want to think about how good she looked, or how he reacted to just seeing her again. “She was always pretty, and she’s always loved horses. Remember how she used to watch you work the horses, and ask you dozens of questions?”

Gus grinned. “That she did. And looks like she got herself a good-looking stallion.”

“He doesn’t seem to be trainable. Look how he took off.”

Gus laughed. “Now, I know you’re not that old, son. That horse caught whiff of a mare in season, and nothing could stop him from getting to her.”

Kase’s thoughts suddenly turned to the teenage boy who had ridden off with his girl to steal some time alone. Laurel Quinn in his arms was like a dream. The taste of her mouth...

Suddenly he heard the sound of his daughter’s giggles as she rushed into the kitchen. “Daddy! Daddy!” The tiny girl stopped in front of his chair. “Laurel and me had so much fun.”

“I’m glad.” He hugged her. But his gaze went to the woman who stood in the doorway, her long slender frame—but her subtle curves were visible to him. Even years later, he remembered her body. Those long legs, and how those firm breasts brushed against his chest. A sudden stirring began low in his gut.

His daughter’s small hand nudged at him. “Daddy?”

He blinked back to the present. “What, sweetie?”

“Can Laurel spend the night with us?”

* * *

LAUREL FELT THE HEAT rush up her neck. She couldn’t even look at Kase. Would he think she put his daughter up to asking? The man holding the child wasn’t the same boy who’d left here years ago, and she wasn’t the same person, either. The last thing she wanted was to get more involved with the man who’d already broken her heart.

She quickly made her feelings known. “Addy, I’m sorry, but I can’t stay tonight.”

The little girl went to her, wrapping those tiny arms around her legs. “But you’re my friend, you said so.”

Laurel knelt down. “I am your friend, but that doesn’t mean I stay here all the time. I have to go work my horses, but I’ll come back to see you. But tonight, I have a date with a very special man.”

Addy’s eyes lit up. “Is he a prince?”

Laurel couldn’t help but smile. “I think he is. He’s my dad, but I have to share him with another princess, my sister, Brooke.”

“Your sister?” Kase said.

She stole a glance at the man and nodded. “A long story, but a happy one.” She kissed Addy’s cheek. “My daddy is taking me out to dinner with my sister.”

Addy jumped up and down. “Can I go, too?”

Kase stood. “Addison Marie, it is not polite to ask to be invited.”

“Maybe another time,” Laurel said, wondering how she would get out of this. “I think your daddy and Papa need you here to help with supper. How about when I come back to check on the mare in a few days?”

“To see if she has a baby in her tummy?”

“That’s right.” Laurel fought a grin as she hugged the little girl. “So we’ll say goodbye for now. You be good and I’ll see you soon.”

“I’ll be good, I promise.”

Laurel stood. “I better get back before they send out a search party.”

“Glad to see you again, pretty girl,” Gus said and hugged her. “Don’t be a stranger, you hear?”

She forced a smile. “I won’t. You take care of yourself.”

She looked at Kase. “Goodbye, Kase.” She started for the door.

“Daddy, you didn’t hug Laurel.”

Laurel tensed, seeing the stern look on Kase’s face.

“You’re right, Addy, I didn’t.”

He went to her, wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. At the feel of Kase’s hard body against her, the years suddenly melted away. His familiar scent, which she’d know in the darkness, nearly brought tears to her eyes.

As he finally released her, he said, “I’ll walk you out.”

“There’s no need, Kase.”

He tensed. “I said I would walk you out.” He opened the screen door and motioned for her to go through.

She stiffened, but she wasn’t going to argue with this man, not in front of his daughter. She stepped off the porch and started toward the corral where the ATV was parked.

“Hey, slow down.”

She didn’t look at him. “I don’t take orders from you or any man.”

“Whoa, I didn’t give you orders... Sorry, I guess I did, but I wanted to talk to you.” His long stride easily kept up with her pace. “I wanted to thank you for what you did for Addy.”

Darn it. That took the fight right out of her. “She’s easy to be nice to. Sorry about your wife. That’s got to be hard on both of you.”

“Yeah, it’s been a difficult year.”

Those gray eyes met her gaze. She could see the pain. He must have loved his wife a lot. She wasn’t sure she could deal with him being around again. Not that she had any remaining feelings for the man. “So being home might help you both.”

“Looks like I don’t have much choice in the matter.”

That bothered Laurel. Seemed he hadn’t changed his feelings about life here. “There’s always a choice, Kase. You could just leave again.”

She started to walk away, then he took hold of her arm and stopped her. His touch seared through her shirt, reminding her of years ago. Although she’d been young, she’d still never experienced the depth of desire as she had with Kase.

“I’m not leaving, Laurel, at least not for now. Dad needs surgery, and his rehab could take months. Then there’s Addy, and her world has been turned upside down. She needs a stable home.”

“As long as you’re there for her, Addy will have all the stability she needs.” She pulled out of his grip. “So, I guess we’re going to be neighbors again.”

He released a long breath. “Look, Laurel, it’s been ten years. I would think we could be civil.”

She smiled to keep from slugging the man. “I thought I was being civil.” She released a breath. “Okay, I’ll admit, you did hurt me. I was eighteen, but don’t think that I’ve been mourning you all these years.”

Kase glanced away, and even his profile was gorgeous. “I know, I heard about you getting married.”

She was trying really hard to keep her emotions in check, but it was difficult. “Then you probably heard the rest of the story. The groom took off before the nuptials. It seems I have that effect on men.” She marched off toward the vehicle, climbed in and started the engine, then shot off. She finally let the tears flow.

Chapter Three

That evening, Laurel sat at the picnic-style table of her favorite restaurant, Joe’s Barbecue Smokehouse. In front of her was a huge sampler platter of ribs. Untouched. The cause of her distraction and her lack of appetite was Kase Rawlins. Seeing him today had caused a reaction she didn’t need or want. Could her personal life get any more pathetic?

“Laurel, you aren’t eating,” her sister said.

Laurel looked across the table at her twin sister, Brooke Landry. They weren’t identical, with Brooke’s hair a darker blond, and her face a little longer, but close enough.

They’d met for the first time only last fall when their biological mother, suffering from Alzheimer’s, told Brooke she had a twin whom she’d given to their father to raise. Seemed their father, rodeo star Rory Quinn, had been in Las Vegas for the NFR and met singer Coralee Harper. Twin daughters were the result of the brief union, but Rory knew about only one of his children, until Brooke showed up at his door. And Laurel was more than happy to have her here permanently. She got her wish when Brooke had fallen in love and married their neighbor Trent Landry, and now they were expecting a baby soon.

“Sorry, I was just thinking about what happened today with Wind.”

Her father spoke in between bites of his ribs. “I told you that horse would be trouble.”

Rory Quinn was a big man with green eyes the same as hers and Brooke’s. He had thick gray hair and a deep, rich laugh. His face was wrinkled from the sun and years of ranching. He and her mother, Diane, had always been there for her.

“Well, he’s worth it,” Laurel said. “And he’s going to make money.”

Rory shook his head. “You’re lucky you’re not getting sued for what that crazy stallion did today. And now that Kase is home, and with him being a lawyer and all, he could cause you problems.”

Would Kase do that?

Brooke’s eyes brightened. “Yes, tell us about seeing Kase Rawlins.”

Even torture wouldn’t make Laurel admit that the man got her pulse revving once again. “There’s nothing much to tell, really. Of course he wasn’t happy about what happened to his mare. What surprised me was that he owns a horse.”

Brooke picked up her short rib. “No, I mean tell me about seeing Kase again. Does he look as good as you remember?”

Laurel glanced at her father and he didn’t look pleased, and she figured he’d probably remain that way no matter what answer she gave. Why would he be? His daughter’s track record with men had been lousy. “It’s been a long time since Kase left, but yes, he’s still a good-looking man.”

Her father spoke up. “Back then, you both were too young to be so serious. I’m grateful you both went your separate ways. You both needed to concentrate on college.”

That had been another sore subject between them. Her parents weren’t happy when Laurel hadn’t finished college. Instead, she decided to come back to breed and train quarter horses.

“You and Mom fell in love in high school. You didn’t go to college.” Laurel didn’t want to talk about this anymore and raised her hand to stop any further comment from her father. “Let’s go to a safer subject.” She turned to her sister. “Has Trent painted the baby’s room yet?”

Brooke beamed. “Yes, he finished the nursery yesterday. Tonight, he’s putting together the crib.” She took a drink of her water. “You know the one we both liked? The Child Craft? Trent liked the dark wood. He said it was more masculine for a boy.”

Laurel had known their neighbor Trent Landry all her life. He’d been like a brother to her, since their parents, Wade Landry and Rory Quinn, had traveled the rodeo circuit in their younger days. After Wade’s death, Trent came home and took over the Lucky Bar L Ranch. Laurel couldn’t have been any happier when Trent and Brooke fell in love last fall. At least sometimes love worked out.

Suddenly Laurel heard her name, and she turned and searched the crowded room. Then she spotted the familiar little girl running toward her. “Laurel! Laurel!”

“Addy?” Laurel opened her arms just as the tiny child landed there. “What a surprise.” A shock was more like it. “What are you doing here?”

Addy stood back. “I did a good job picking up my toys, so Daddy said we could go out to eat, too. He said he needed a break from cooking. Papa Gus, too.” She glanced around the table and saw Brooke, then turned back to Laurel. “She looks just like you.”

The group laughed. “That’s because she’s my twin sister,” Laurel said. “We look alike, just like your dollies.”

The child looked around the table. “Hi, I’m Addy and I’m four years old.” She looked at Rory. “Are you Laurel’s prince?”

Her father seemed to be flustered by the question. “I think I’m too old to be a prince, but she’s my princess. So is my other daughter, Brooke.”

Brooke waved. “Hi, Addy.”

Those big blue eyes rounded as she cupped her tiny hands around her mouth and whispered loudly to Laurel. “She has a baby in her tummy.”

Laurel bit back a smile. “Yes, she does.”

The little girl walked around to the other side of the table, totally entranced with Brooke’s expanded belly.

“I’m having a little boy,” Brooke said. “We’re going to name him Christopher.”

“Oh, I like that name. I have a baby doll named Bobby, and I let Laurel hold him when she came in my room.”

Brooke’s gaze landed on Laurel’s. “Really? I didn’t know that.”

Suddenly Laurel began to search the area for Kase. She finally saw him, helping a slower-moving Gus across the restaurant. He didn’t look happy to see where his daughter had gone.

When they arrived at the table, Laurel couldn’t seem to take her eyes off the man. He had on a pair of dark jeans and a blue oxford dress shirt. His sandy-blond hair was neatly combed, only making her want to mess it up. Whoa. Where did that come from?

“We seem to keep running into each other.” Kase stated the obvious.

“This time it isn’t my fault,” she told him, knowing everyone’s eyes were on them. Darn, did the man have to look so good? “My horse is home in the barn.”

Kase raised an eyebrow. “You sure about that?”

Rory was on his feet shaking Gus’s hand. Then he turned to Kase. “Good to see you again, Kase.” He reached out a hand.

Kase shook his hand. “It’s good to see you, too.”

Rory glared at his daughter. “I also heard about what happened today.”

Kase nodded. “Dad assures me that it’ll be fine, no matter what the outcome.” His attention went across the table to Brooke. “Well, so the rumors are true, there is another one. You must be Brooke.”

Brooke smiled. “Yes, I am. Nice to finally meet you, Mr. Rawlins.”

“Call me Kase, please. This is my father, Gus.”

Kase’s father smiled. “You’re a lucky man, Quinn, to have two beautiful daughters.”

Rory beamed. “That I am. And you have a budding beauty in your granddaughter.”

Brooke spoke up. “She is precious.”

Kase’s attention went to the child. “She may be, but I need to work on her running off.”

“Good luck with that,” Rory said. “Would you like to join us?”

“Oh, we couldn’t intrude,” Kase said. “We’ve already interrupted your supper.”

“But, Daddy, I want to stay with Laurel. She’s my friend.”

Laurel felt tension coming from Kase. This was awkward for all of them. “Addy, I’m having a date with my prince. So why don’t you have a date with your prince, your daddy?”

The little girl’s eyes twinkled with excitement. “Oh, can we, Daddy?”

Kase’s gaze went to Laurel. Immediately she felt heat flood through her body. Then too quickly he turned back to his daughter and said, “I would love to be with my princess.” He did a slight bow and held out his hand. “Please allow me to escort you to our table, Princess Addison?”

Addy giggled, then took her father’s hand and strolled off. That picture of the two caused an ache that circled her heart.

Laurel turned back to her family. Both her father and her sister were watching her. “What?”

“Seems you left out a few details about today,” her father said.

“What, my stallion impregnating a neighbor’s mare wasn’t enough?” Laurel pretended to be interested in her food. Too bad her taste buds weren’t cooperating.

“You didn’t say anything about that adorable little girl being with him,” Brooke said.

Laurel was confused. “Where else would she be?”

“According to Gus, she’d been living with her grandparents, the Chappells, in Denver since her mother’s death. There’s a big custody fight for the child.”

Laurel didn’t know that. Okay, she needed to get out more and talk to people instead of horses. “What? How can that be? Kase is the father and he has the right to raise his daughter.”

Rory shrugged. “You would think so, but the grandparents are accusing Kase of causing his wife’s death.”

* * *

LATER THAT EVENING, Laurel walked around her apartment unable to sleep. The space wasn’t large, but she didn’t need much except a bed, a bath and a small kitchen. Not that she cooked much, but she could make sandwiches and fry eggs. That was all she had the energy for after working all day. She didn’t have anyone to come home to, to hold her and love her.

She thought about Jack, and her anger began to stir. How could she have been such a fool? Maybe she hadn’t loved him as she should have, but her loneliness and wanting a family of her own drove her into their arrangement.

Okay, so that wasn’t the perfect scenario for marriage, but they both knew that going into it. And they did have chemistry. What she didn’t expect from her husband-to-be was for him to rob her parents and Trent of their money. And for that she could never forgive him.

Now she had a bigger problem. Kase Rawlins was back in her life. She would most likely see the man when she stopped by the ranch. She wasn’t going to break a promise to a little girl, especially when that child was still getting over her mother’s death.

What about Kase? Was he still having trouble with his wife’s passing? Of course he was. And after her father’s declaration about Kase causing his wife’s death, she was definitely curious to find out more.

Laurel went to the table and opened her laptop and quickly Googled Kase’s name. The first reference showed he was a junior partner with the prestigious Denver law firm of Chappell, Hannett and Caruthers. It showed Kase’s picture as a rising star of criminal defense. It named a famous case involving a son of an oil corporation’s CEO. She moved on to his bio and his five-year marriage to Johanna Chappell Rawlins. She paused to examine the picture of the handsome Kase and his young bride, a beautiful brunette with large brown eyes.

Laurel sighed. “And to think he left a girl who wore jeans and smelled of horses for that life.” Okay, she was more the Calamity Jane type than a runway model.

She quickly did a search for Johanna Chappell Rawlins. Several pictures of the Denver socialite came up on the screen. Seemed Mrs. Rawlins, Jonnie, as her friends called her, liked to be out on the town, whether it was at parties or at fund-raisers. She was also the granddaughter of oil tycoon Henry William Cash. So Johanna Rawlins was wealthy in her own right and her family had connections. Everything Kase had been searching for when he left here ten years ago.

Laurel sank back into her chair. Kase had been right to leave her behind. She would never fit into that life, any more than Kase would fit in back here. He’d proved that when he left and never came back, not even for a visit.

She scrolled down on the computer and continued to read more. She stopped at the headline “Heiress Johanna Chappell Rawlins found dead in drug overdose. Denver Police question the husband as to his whereabouts.”

She continued to read that Kase had cooperated with the police and was never charged with anything. The Chappell family felt differently.

Laurel sighed. No wonder he brought Addy back here. With the Chappells’ accusation and being followed by the media, that couldn’t be good for a child.

She closed her laptop. Did he really mean he was going to stay here? Could he build a new life here, or after Gus’s surgery and recovery would he get bored and take off again? She couldn’t afford to dream about anything happening with Kase, and definitely not act on impulse. No matter how cute his little girl was, and good-looking the man was, he was off-limits.

Her focus had to be her parents and Trent and the money she had to pay them back. There was nothing more important than that.

* * *

THE NEXT DAY, Laurel had been up early as usual. She fed the stock, exercised the horses and even got in some training. After Wind’s adventure yesterday, she wanted to make sure he didn’t get out again while she was in town.

Right before 9:00 a.m., she pulled her truck into the parking lot in downtown Hidden Springs, next to the professional building. She glanced up at the name Allen and Jacobs Accounting painted on the brick facade.

A few months ago, she’d applied for a part-time job to work during their busy tax season. As much as she wanted to train horses full-time, she was in debt over $30,000. That was the amount Jack had stolen from her parents and Trent when he had been their general contractor on fishing cabin projects. And if it hadn’t been for her carelessness, that money might still be in the account.

She climbed out of the truck, brushed off her black pencil skirt, then reached back inside and grabbed her matching jacket off the seat. After slipping it on over her silk blouse, she headed to the door. Okay, so she enjoyed the chance to work with numbers all day, at least until tax season was over, and she was paid well.

She greeted the receptionist. “Hi, Melody.”

“Good morning, Laurel.”

Melody Hayes was happily married with two kids. A picture of her son, Parker, and daughter, Claire, sat on her desk like a shrine.

With a smile, Laurel continued through the double doors to the main room, where several cubbies were divided by glass partitions. She went to hers and began to sort through the new files on her desk.

Two hours later, she looked up from her computer. She raised her hands over her head and worked to stretch out the kinks from her back. That was when she heard the voices. She looked from her cubby to see Mr. Allen talking with a client outside his office. Not just any client, it was Kase. Oh, no, what was he doing here?

She moved back inside her space, hoping that he wouldn’t see her, but then she heard her name called.

“Laurel!”

Suddenly Addy Rawlins stood in her doorway.

“Oh, Addy. Hi.”

The little girl grinned as she strolled in and up to the desk. “What are you doing here?”

“Well, this is where I work. What are you doing here?”

“I got to come with Daddy. He said he needs help with his money now that we live with Papa Gus.”

Wonderful. Would Kase somehow blame her for this, too? “Well, Mr. Allen and Mr. Jacobs are good at that.”

Then she heard that familiar voice. “Addy, where are you?”

“Oh, no. Daddy’s mad.”

“No, he isn’t. He’s just worried because he doesn’t know where you are.” Laurel stood up and waved. “She’s with me, Kase.”

Kase frowned as he came around the corner to the office. Inside, he found Laurel and Addy. Great, Laurel worked here. “Addison Rawlins, what have I told you about wandering off?”

Addy looked down at the floor. “Not to leave you.” She raised her head and blinked her eyes. “I’m sorry, Daddy, but I saw Laurel and I wanted to say hi.”

His anger dissolved as his heart rate slowed. He knelt down. “I know you did, but I didn’t know where you went.”

“I won’t do it again, I promise.” She wrapped her arms around his neck. “Don’t be mad at me, Daddy,” she whispered against his ear.

His heart squeezed tightly. “Oh, sweetheart. I’m not mad at you. I was afraid that you were lost and scared.”

Addy clasped her hands together. “And you were going to save me?”

He couldn’t help but smile. He kissed Addy’s cheek. “I’ll always save you.” Holding his daughter’s hand, he stood up and looked at Laurel. “Seems we keep meeting.”

She nodded. “I work here a few days a week.”

He couldn’t help but stare at the woman whom he’d never seen dressed like this. Hair pulled into a bun, wearing a blouse and skirt. He actually saw her legs. A tingle of awareness hit him low in his belly. It had been a long time since he’d seen those legs. He shook away the memory. “So you got your accounting degree?”

“I might be a few classes short, but close enough.”

Cleve Allen walked up. “Mr. Rawlins,” the older man began, “is everything okay?”

“Yes, my daughter just found a friend.”

Allen smiled at Laurel. “Good. Would you like to go into my office and we can have our meeting?”

Kase looked down at Addy. He wasn’t sure if this was a good idea. “Maybe we should reschedule. My daughter is upset and...”

“No, don’t do that,” Laurel jumped in. “Addy can stay with me while you two have your meeting.” Laurel looked at her boss. “Is that okay with you, Mr. Allen? I’m due for my break and I could take her into the lunch room.”

“That sounds like an excellent idea, Laurel. If it’s okay with Mr. Rawlins?”

Kase didn’t want to feel anything, but Laurel Quinn had nixed that idea. She’d stormed back into his life and he couldn’t seem to stop her.

“Of course,” he said and looked down at his daughter. “Addy, you be good and stay with Laurel.”

Addy took hold of Laurel’s hand. “I will, Daddy, ’cause she’s my best friend.”

Great, just another complication added to his life. With a nod, Kase turned and followed Allen down the hall.

After Kase took a seat in a barrel chair across from the man’s desk, Allen walked around the desk and sat down. “First of all, thank you for trusting our firm to handle your finances, Mr. Rawlins.”

Kase leaned back in his chair. “The main reason I came to you was for my father’s business. He’s a quarter horse trainer, but I’m not sure if he’ll be able to continue his work. I want to make sure he has an income to live on.” Kase had done well for himself in Denver. And although he hadn’t made partner at the firm, his income was quite impressive. “I’ve already invested in the business with a brood mare, and I plan to do some improvements.” After all, his father was just sixty-five, and he could continue to do his training if only in hiring personnel. “Also I have my daughter’s trust from her deceased mother. That’s handled by a bank in Denver. As of now, the trustee is her grandfather. I’m hoping to change that in the future.”

Allen took notes. “We’ll see if we can assist you in that trust transfer.” He arched an eyebrow. “Will you be strictly working with your father, or opening your own law practice?”

“I’m not ready to make that decision.” The type of law he’d practiced for Chappell had left a bad taste in his mouth. He’d sold his soul for money. Now that Johanna was gone, he had to worry about what damage her lifestyle had done to Addy. Even though the four-year-old was worth millions, she needed a lot more than money. She needed stability and love. He’d hoped by coming back here he could do more for her. His thoughts turned to Laurel Quinn. It seemed that she was doing a much better job with his daughter than he was.

Chapter Four

Two hours later, Kase had finished with his financial meeting and ended up at the Rocky Mountain Grill for lunch. The place was a mix of fifties-style diner with a Western twist. The storefront restaurant hadn’t changed since he used to hang out here in high school.

He glanced across the table at Laurel, and a funny feeling rushed over him. Suddenly he thought about the cocky-as-hell seventeen-year-old boy who’d dated the pretty freshman with the big green eyes. She’d been into horses, but he’d quickly changed her interest to him. He also remembered how he used to sit in this same booth and share some fries...and a few kisses.

Then came the day he’d broken her heart and went off to what he thought would be a better life. The joke was on him. It seemed everything he’d been looking for wasn’t found in Denver. The big home, beautiful wife and illustrious career had gone down the tubes. The only thing that mattered now was Addy. He tensed. He would do anything to keep her safe and with him.

At the sound of Addy’s soft sigh, he looked down to find that she was snuggled up beside Laurel, fast asleep.

He started to stand. “Let me take her.”

Laurel waved him off. “She’s fine.”

“I should move her so you can at least eat your lunch. You have to be uncomfortable.”

“It’s okay.” She continued to rub Addy’s arm. “Let her sleep. I have a feeling she’s missing her naptime.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Don’t you know naps are for babies?”

That got a smile from Laurel, and his pulse sped up.

“Then I guess I’m still a baby because I like naps,” she confessed. “But then I’m up at five.”

He glanced again at his daughter and how Laurel’s hand stroked her lovingly. He couldn’t remember his wife ever spending much time with their child. Addy was probably starved for some affection. Guilt hit him deep in his chest. He should have been there for his child, too.

Laurel got his attention when she said, “I bet she was up this morning at five.”

“Yeah, you know my dad. He needed to feed the horses.”

“Where is Gus?”

“I dropped him off to visit his friend Charlie Cleveland.” He checked his watch. “But I’ll need to pick him up soon and take him to his appointment at the clinic.”

The waitress arrived at their table and set down their plates. “Would you like anything else?” the girl asked.

He glanced at Laurel and she shook her head. “We’re fine, thank you.”

Laurel took a bite of a french fry. “Oh, so good.” She moaned in pleasure. “I don’t get much of a chance to indulge in Rocky’s hamburgers and fries.”

Kase tried to concentrate on his food but found he’d rather watch Laurel.

When she frowned at him, he realized he’d been staring again and picked up his hamburger. He took a big bite. “So good. I haven’t had a good burger in a long time.”

Laurel waved another fry before popping it into her mouth. “So the big-time lawyer can’t be caught eating a double-stack burger with everything, including onions?”

“Most of my clients prefer something more than a hamburger lunch, especially for what it costs them to keep us on retainer.”

Laurel knew it wasn’t a good idea to accept Kase’s lunch invitation, but here she was sitting across from him. Even though it had been Addy who’d invited her, Kase had tossed in he wanted to thank her for watching his daughter during his meeting.

She was so out of her league. This wasn’t the Kase Rawlins who’d left here ten years ago. She didn’t know how to play the game. She’d proved that with her lousy record with men. “You must be good at what you do if you’ve made junior partner so soon.” She took a big bite of her sandwich.

His gaze shot to hers, his gray depths suddenly dark and searching. “So you checked me out.”

When would she learn to keep her mouth shut? She shrugged, trying to act like it didn’t matter much. “It’s easy to Google a person.” She took another french fry. “Seems you got everything you wanted after you left here.”

He paused, then said, “Sometimes we get confused about what we want, especially when we’re so young.”

Her heart stopped, then sped up again. “You didn’t want to be a great criminal defense attorney?”

“Great is a stretch,” he said. “I had one landmark case. I got lucky with some evidence and with a good cyber investigator, so I was able to prove my client’s innocence.”

Laurel couldn’t help but get caught up in his enthusiasm as he talked about his case. No doubt he was born to be a lawyer. Hadn’t he told her that was his passion from day one of their dating?

Now he was back in Hidden Springs, widowed, with a young daughter. Would he be changing careers and staying permanently? “I think you’re being modest.”

Kase leaned back in his seat. He didn’t want to talk about himself or the future, since he wasn’t sure about anything but keeping Addy. His attention went to Laurel as she lovingly brushed his daughter’s hair back. Her gaze met his. Those green eyes had always been able to turn him inside out.

Laurel sighed. “Addy’s had a lot to deal with in her short life, especially losing her mother so young, and moving back here. All those changes can’t be easy for her.”

“I guess so.” He didn’t want to hash over Johanna’s lack of mothering. “But I want to concentrate on building a new life for us here.”

She arched an eyebrow. “So you’re staying? Permanently?”

A funny feeling came over him as he looked across the table at the beautiful woman and wondered why he ever left. He nodded slowly.

She smiled and his breath locked in his chest.

“Isn’t it funny how life works out?” she questioned. “I mean, the last place you wanted to be was in Hidden Springs.”

“There isn’t much opportunity in a small town for defense attorneys.” He paused. “Look, Laurel, I know I didn’t exactly treat you fairly when we broke up. I was young and selfish...”

She sweetly replied, “And I was a rancher’s daughter who didn’t fit into your plan to make a life in the big city.”

He glanced away, wishing she’d hit him with anger, instead of being nice. He could fight her fury, remembering how the teenage Laurel would stand her ground against him. “What did I know back then?”

“A lot. You followed your dream, Kase. You made a name for yourself with your perseverance and drive. You need to be proud of that.”

And his family suffered. “It doesn’t seem that important now.”

Silence hung between them in the noisy diner that was filling with other customers. “So what are you going to do?” Laurel finally asked. “Retire? Help Gus with breeding and training horses?”

He frowned. “I’m Dad’s partner, but he’s the expert and has the reputation. With my financial backing, I hope we can rebuild the business. Dad’s had some rough times lately. And with Honor’s Promise’s possible pregnancy, looks like I just launched my new career.”

Laurel huffed out a breath. “Again, I’m so sorry about what happened yesterday with Wind.”

He reached across the table and touched her hand. He ignored the warm sensation and said, “I was teasing.”

Laurel smacked his arm playfully, needing to lose his connection. His touch did more than she was willing to admit. “You won’t be laughing when you see the beautiful foal you’ll be getting for free.”

He opened his mouth to speak, but his phone rang. “It’s Gus.” He put it against his ear. “Hey, Dad. Are you ready?” He listened a moment. “Okay, I’ll be by as soon as I get Addy moving.” Ending the call, he looked down at his little girl. Laurel didn’t miss the emotion in his eyes.

He slid out of the booth, leaned over the sleeping child and shook her gently. “Hey, baby, it’s time to wake up.”

Addy’s eyelids fluttered and her tiny hands came up to rub them.

“Daddy?”

“Hi, sweetie. We need to go get Papa and take him to the doctor.”

The child sat up and looked at Laurel, then burst into tears. “But I didn’t get to eat lunch with Laurel.”

At Kase’s panicked look, Laurel stepped in. “It’s okay, sweetie. You can still eat with me.” She knew she was overstepping her bounds. “And your dad can take Papa Gus to the doctor and you and I can finish our lunch.”

Kase frowned. “Laurel, I can’t expect you to keep watching Addy.” He checked the clock on the wall. “Besides, don’t you have to go back to work?”

“I only work three mornings during tax season. The afternoons, I work at my main business, Quinn Stables and Training.”

The child’s tears stopped immediately and Laurel looked back at Kase, daring him to say differently. “And when we’re finished eating, I’ll take Addy home with me. I have a new client coming by with her horse today. Since the Bucking Q is on your way home, you can pick her up there.”

“That’s too much to ask of you.”

“I know that,” she told him, “but you need to get Gus to the doctor, and I bet he’s being stubborn about going. So don’t lose this opportunity to get him help for his hip.”

Kase smiled at her, and she felt her guard slipping, darn it. “Thank you. I owe you big-time.”

“You sure do, and I plan to collect.”

“Gladly,” he told her. His gray eyes flashed heat, then he looked back to his daughter. “Do what Laurel tells you, and I’ll pick you up in a few hours.” With Addy’s nod, he exchanged cell phone numbers with Laurel and stood, then pulled out his keys. “Since you’ll need her car seat, we should just exchange cars. Where are you parked?”

“Next to the office. It’s the black truck with the Bucking Q Ranch logo on the side.” She reached into her purse and handed over her keys.

He grabbed them as he leaned down to kiss his daughter’s forehead, and she caught a whiff of his aftershave. The subtle fragrance got her motor running. He raised his head and his gaze locked on hers. “Thank you again.”

“Daddy, don’t forget to kiss Laurel, too.”

He winked. “I wouldn’t forget that.”

Her heart began to pound as his head descended toward hers and he brushed a soft kiss against her cheek. He picked up the check from the table. “Goodbye, Laurel.”

“Goodbye,” she answered, but her voice didn’t sound like hers.

Unable to help herself, she watched as the good-looking man dressed in a pair of dark jeans and boots walked to the cashier and paid the bill. Then he started out and held the door for a woman, then nodded a greeting and walked out.

She had to stop this, realizing her heart was still racing. Kase was not the man for her. Not ten years ago, and definitely not now.

She felt a tug on her arm and looked down at Addy. “Do I have to eat my fruit?” she asked.

This child could steal her heart if she let her. “Maybe two bites and eat some of your hamburger. Then we’ll go see my horses.”

She was rewarded with a big smile, and the girl picked up her fork and began to eat. Laurel wished she could stimulate her appetite, but Kase had her stomach in knots. She didn’t even want to think about what he could do to her heart again.

* * *

“DAD, YOU NEED to listen to the doctor. He’s telling you that you need this surgery. It’s the only thing that will get rid of the pain and help you walk easier again.”

Gus Rawlins sat in the chair in the medical office and glanced between his son and the young doctor who didn’t look much older. “Will I be able to ride again?”

The fortysomething orthopedist adjusted his wire-rim glasses. “After a successful surgery, many patients go back to normal activities. I’m not sure if it’s wise for you to spend all day in a saddle, but I’ve seen people do it.” He smiled. “The important key is getting a good rehab program.”

Gus didn’t look convinced. “And what if it makes my hip worse?”

Dr. Copeland folded his arms. “I perform this type of surgery every week, Mr. Rawlins, and I haven’t had many complications. That is, unless the patient doesn’t work at rehab.”

Gus looked at his son. “That’s another thing. I don’t need to go into any nursing home. What if I don’t ever get out?”

Kase’s heart sank. Did his father really think that? Guilt washed over him. He wasn’t going to abandon him again. “They can’t keep you, Dad. If they try, you can have your lawyer sue them.” Kase smiled, trying to make light of the situation.

Gus looked at the doctor. “He’s got a smart mouth because he’s a lawyer.” He sighed. “Okay, I’ll do the surgery, but I want to do the rehab at the house.”

“Dad...”

Gus raised his hand. “I need to make sure my horses are looked after. And what about Addy? Who will watch after her? I don’t want to worry her because I’m not there. She’s already lost people...”

Kase wasn’t sure how to handle this. He looked at the doctor for help.

“I have a list of excellent physical therapists who could come out to the house,” the doctor said. “It could be expensive, though. Your insurance may not cover all the expense.”

“If this helps my father, I’ll pay extra for a therapist to come to the ranch.” He frowned at his father. “So when can you schedule the surgery?”

The doctor looked over his computer screen. “I have next Friday at seven in the morning.”

They both looked at Gus. Finally his father relented. “Okay, I’ll do it, but not for you—it’s for my granddaughter. I made a lot of promises to her, and I plan to be around to make good on all of them.”

Kase wanted to know what his father was up to, but right now he’d settle for what he could get from the man.

* * *

THREE HOURS LATER, Laurel watched as her new client drove away pulling an empty trailer. Left behind was a beautiful three-year-old roan mare named Ruby Ridge. Laurel was going to be training the quarter horse for reining competitions.

She was excited about working her horses through the precise patterns of circles, spins and stops. The new corral her father built was a perfect area for the Western-style dressage.

The past few months she’d been working one of Trent’s horses, Red Baron, a beautiful stallion showing plenty of promise. Now she had Ruby Ridge and a chance to prove herself. With the owner, Kat Bryce, willing to help her horse learn, and Laurel putting in the practice time, how could she pass it up? She’d be building a reputation, too, and the money she’d make would go into the fund to pay back her parents.

Hearing her name, Laurel turned to see her mother and little Addy walking down from the house.

She smiled and waved back at her mom, a woman who was an attractive brunette in her early fifties. The best mother ever, even after she’d discovered last fall that Diane Quinn wasn’t her biological mother.

That discovery came out when Brooke Harper arrived at the ranch, claiming to be her twin sister. And her biological mother was really a Las Vegas singer, Coralee Harper, who spent a weekend with their father, Rory Quinn, before her parents got married.

All these years, Rory knew about only one child, Laurel. When Coralee was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s, she wanted to see her other daughter before losing all memory and sent Brooke to find her. Now, seven months later, Coralee had been moved into a nursing home only a few miles from the ranch.

Brooke, who’d been raised by the woman, visited her almost daily, and Laurel got there once or twice a week. Some days Coralee knew her, and some days not. Coralee might be her biological mother, but nothing could ever change Laurel’s feelings for the woman who’d raised her.

“Hey, Mom. Hey, Addy.”

Addy smiled. “Hi, Laurel. Your mommy showed me your old bedroom. I saw your special dollies.”

Laurel grinned. “You mean Amy and Betsy?”

The child nodded her head, causing her curls to bounce. “Mimi said she wants to keep them for when you have a little girl, so she can play with them.”

Laurel looked at her mother and mouthed, “Mimi?”

Diane shrugged. “I didn’t know what she should call me.” She smiled. “She’s so adorable.”

Oh, no. She didn’t want her mother to hatch a scheme to get her and Kase back together. As far as she was concerned she’d sworn off men. She leaned forward and whispered, “Be careful. This little conniver will steal your heart.”

“I think she already has,” her mother admitted.

Just then she saw her truck coming up the road. It parked next to the barn, the door opened and Kase stepped out. Her breath caught when he straightened to his full six-foot-one frame, exposing the width of his broad shoulders and his narrow waist. His long, easy strides took him around to the passenger side, where he helped Gus climb out.

“Daddy! Papa!” Addy cried and took off running toward them.

Kase turned in time to catch the enthusiastic child in his arms, then swung her around in the air. Addy giggled in delight.

“Will you look at that?” her mother said with a sigh. “There’s just something about a man holding a child that’s so appealing.”

Laurel couldn’t stop staring when Kase hoisted his daughter high into his arms and kissed her cheek, then held her while Gus kissed her, too. She felt her own chest tighten on seeing the loving scene.

Kase looked toward her and waved. As his father moved slowly with his cane, the threesome made their way up the drive. Laurel and her mother met them halfway.

“Hello, Laurel,” Kase greeted.

Her heart raced. “Hi, Kase. Gus.”

Gus nodded and looked at her mother. “It’s nice to see you again, Diane.”

“Good to see you, too, Gus. It’s been too long.”

Kase turned to her mother. “How are you, Mrs. Quinn?”

Laurel watched as her mother blushed. “Oh, please, Kase, call me Diane.”

He nodded, but Addy said, “I get to call her Mimi, Daddy.”

The blush deepened. “I wasn’t sure what to have her call me.”

“That’s okay, as long as she’s respectful.”

“She’s been nothing but polite, and a sweetheart.”

“Did she talk you to death?”

Diane smiled brightly. “I’m used to it.” She hugged her daughter. “I raised this little chatterbox.”

Laughter rang out in the group.

Addy touched her dad’s face and made him turn toward her. “We made peanut butter cookies. I got to make the crisscross marks on top.”

“Wow, it sounds like you had fun today.”

Diane looked at Gus, leaning on his cane. “Gus, please come up to the porch and sit down.”

“We should go,” Kase said. “I’ve already taken advantage of your and Laurel’s time.”

“Nonsense,” Diane said. “In fact, I’d like to extend an invitation for supper.”

Laurel froze. What was her mother doing?

Kase spoke up first. “Oh, Mrs.... Diane, we can’t intrude.”

“You’re not intruding at all. It’s just a big pot of beef stew and some homemade bread.”

Gus groaned. “And peanut butter cookies for dessert?”

Addy nodded. “Daddy, I want to stay. I didn’t get to play with Laurel. She had to work all day.”

Laurel caught the mischief in Kase’s eyes before he turned to his daughter. “Maybe Laurel’s too tired to play.”

All eyes turned to her. What was she to do? As much as she didn’t need to get involved in Kase’s life, she couldn’t seem to help herself. “Maybe we can play for a little bit before supper.”

“Yeah.” Little Addy grinned at getting her way. She squirmed out of her daddy’s arms and walked ahead with Laurel’s mother and Gus.

He reached out and touched Laurel’s forearm. “I truly didn’t mean to tie up your entire day.”

She looked at his incredible eyes. Her breath locked in her lungs and she glanced away to gather herself. “Not a problem.”

She started toward the house. “Come on, they’ll wonder where we are.”

No matter how much fun she had with Addy today, it was not good to get any more involved with a man who’d already broken her heart once. But here she was back in line to let it happen again.

Chapter Five

After two heaping bowls of Diane Quinn’s beef stew, Kase had been easily convinced to go out to have a look at one of Laurel’s mares. Even suspicious that his dad was playing matchmaker, he followed Laurel out the door, leaving Addy happily occupied by Diane, Rory and Gus.

Kase stepped inside the immaculate barn with only a faint scent of horses and hay. Impressive. He looked around to see several enclosed stalls and the tack hung neatly on the wall. With Laurel’s arrival, he heard several equine whinnies.

He followed her as she greeted her horses. Suddenly she stopped and he ran into her. Trying to keep his balance, he quickly grabbed her waist. But the close connection made him very aware of those once-familiar curves.

“Whoa there.” Feeling the softness under his hands, it was impossible not to react, or to let her go. It had been a long time since he’d had any interest in a woman. Johanna had made sure of that.

Laurel quickly pulled away. “Sorry.” She didn’t look at him, just walked to one of the stalls, where the horse came to greet her. The rogue stallion’s bobbing of his large head and familiar wild mane made Kase quickly recognize him.

“You already know Wind,” she said.

He nodded, making eye contact with Laurel, and another zing hit him. “I have a feeling I’ll be seeing those markings on his foal in about eleven months.”

Laurel smiled as she rubbed the horse’s nose. “Would that be so bad?”

He realized her smile had him thinking about something other than horses. “According to my dad, no. And since Gus is the expert, I’ll let him handle Honor’s condition.”

“Isn’t she your horse?”

Kase leaned against the post and nodded. “Gus was the one who suggested I buy Honor. He said she was a good investment, so I went along with him. You and I both know that Dad runs the operation. I’m still learning and adding some backing to jump-start Rawlins Horse Ranch.”

“What about when Gus has his surgery? Who’s going to run things then?”

“Well, there won’t be much training unless I hire someone, but Dad doesn’t want anyone else messing with his horses. That’s why he’s been so stubborn about having surgery. He refuses to be away from the ranch for any length of time.”

“Then why can’t you take over? As I remember, you were pretty good at working his stock.”

He frowned. “I only did what Dad told me, but he did all the intricate training. Besides, who’s going to be caring for Addy while I’m spending time with the horses?” He shook his head. “No, I’ve missed too many years with her. I refuse to hire a babysitter to be her parent. She’s had too much of that already.” He started off down the aisle.

Laurel stood there in shock. He’s missed too many years with her. What did that mean? She wanted to ask him more questions, but it wasn’t her business.

She caught up with him as he reached the next stall. The chestnut horse with a white star on her forehead appeared at the gate and she watched as Kase stroked her forehead. The pregnant mare ate up the attention.

Laurel immediately went to her, letting the horse nuzzle her chest. “This is Starr Gazer, my championship cutting horse. I recently bred her with Wind. She should have her foal in about six months.” Laurel wrapped her arms around the horse’s neck and hugged her close. “Going to be a mama soon, huh, girl?”

“I can see why Dad wanted me to see her. She’s a beauty.” Kase rubbed the animal’s head. “What are your plans for the foal?”

“I’d love to keep her, but I’ll need to sell.”

She didn’t miss his questioning look. “Why not hang on to the foal and train it?”

“Because I can’t afford the time.” She hated that she’d gotten in this position. “I have loans to pay back.”

“That’s rough.” His gaze met hers and immediately her body shuddered, reacting to this gorgeous man. “I’m sure your dad doesn’t expect you to pay him back.”

Laurel glanced away, embarrassed that she’d been so gullible over Jack. “So you’ve heard the gossip in town about my runaway groom.”

He shook his head. “Dad told me. I wondered why you never married.”

She was surprised by his answer. “It seems I’m better off with horses than men.”

His mouth twitched in amusement. “If that’s how you feel, then you’ve been with the wrong men.”

Her gaze shot to his, her throat suddenly dry. A flash of memories of a younger Kase appeared in her mind. That cocky grin, his tempting mouth and his tender touch... She swiftly shook them away. “Seems I have a habit of choosing wrong. You’d think after all these years, I’d learn my lesson.”

Kase saw the hurt on her face, knowing she’d included him in that group. He’d give anything to take away her pain. He wanted to reach out and touch her, remembering how soft and giving she’d always been with him. He ached to find out if her mouth still tasted as sweet...

He pushed aside the image. Now wasn’t the time to rehash the past.

“Look, Laurel, I know we’ve been thrown together these past few days, but if you want me to stay away, I’ll do it.” He held his breath, hoping that she wouldn’t send him packing. The last thing he needed was to include her in his crazy life.

She placed her hands on her hips. “Now you tell me. Now, after I finally get a new best friend to share my dolls with. And then there’s Gus. Who can give me his expertise on training? And you want to take that away.”

He smiled at her joking, then he grew serious, realizing that his daughter was getting very attached to Laurel. Besides being beautiful and sexy, he’d seen how loving and caring she’d been with Addy.

“Look, Laurel, my life is unsettled to say the least. I have a daughter to raise, and a father facing surgery.” He sighed. That was only the tip of his problems. “As you’ll soon learn, my in-laws are suing for custody of Addy. So everything I do is under a microscope.”

He saw the compassion in her eyes. “Is that because they believe you’re the cause of their daughter’s death?”

“Where did you hear that?”

“A newspaper article on the web.”

“We’d already separated before her overdose.” His gaze met Laurel’s interested look. “I tried to help her, but she wouldn’t go into rehab. Not even for Addy. I even went to my father-in-law, but he refused to help have his daughter committed. Bad for business, he said. So I resigned from the firm and filed for divorce.”

“Was Addy living with her mother then?”

He nodded. “I’ll regret that until my dying day. The only consolation was her nanny, Mary Beth, who’d been with Addy since birth and had gone with her when they’d moved into the cottage on Johanna’s parents’ property. At least Addy and Johanna had supervision.” He stole a look at Laurel. She had every right to judge his parenting skills.

“Two weeks later, I got the call about Johanna’s drug overdose.”

He felt her hand on his arm. “I’m sorry, Kase.”

He shrugged, ashamed that he couldn’t give his wife what she needed. And questioning himself if he even tried enough to make the marriage work. “So am I.”

“So you came back here?”

“Since Addy had already been staying at her grandparents’, I had a tough time getting physical custody. Ben and Judith refused to give her up, but I finally got a lawyer to help me and removed her from her grandparents’ home.”

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