Corralling Her Heart

Sawyer Jensen is ready to grab life—and his new job—by the horns. The tall, hazel-eyed cowboy has been brought in to revive Quay County’s faltering rodeo, but his bigger challenge may be taking on Erin Delong. The beautiful rodeo rider was in the running for Sawyer’s job, and she’s not walking away without a fight. Sawyer is no stranger to conflict, but the feelings Erin is stirring in him are brand-new. Her independent spirit both intrigues and scares him. As it turns out, Sawyer’s biggest project will be repairing his own wounded heart—and Erin may just be the perfect person for the job!

What had gotten into him?

During the rodeo board meeting, thoughts of Erin kept creeping into Sawyer’s head. When he passed the road leading to the Delong ranch, Sawyer decided to visit her. Besides, he could use the excuse that he wanted to ride. He was a cowboy.

He parked his truck and saw Erin in the corral, practicing her barrel racing. He sat and watched her ride the figure eights. Slipping out of his truck, he softly closed the door.

She didn’t bounce in her saddle, nor did she yank on the reins. She leaned into the sharp turn, keeping her weight off the horse’s back. They worked in unison as a well-oiled machine. When she finished the last figure eight, she let her horse canter around the corral, cooling both her and the horse.

“You’ve got a good seat,” he said.

“Hours of practice.”

Her face glowed and her entire body appeared relaxed and at ease, the most relaxed he’d ever seen her. This was a joyful woman, who loved riding and competing. As she came toward him, he felt himself being drawn to that smile.

LEANN HARRIS has always had stories in her head. Once her youngest child went to school, she began putting those stories on a page. She is active in her local RWA chapter and ACFW chapters. She’s a teacher of the deaf (high school), a master composter and avid gardener, and teaches writing at her local community college. Her website is leannharris.com.

The Cowboy Meets His Match

Leann Harris

www.millsandboon.co.uk

Let the morning bring me word of

Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You.

—Psalms 143:8

For my grandbaby: You are the miracle child

we prayed for, and your smile melts my heart.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

About the Author

Title Page

Bible Verse

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

Epilogue

Dear Reader

Extract

Copyright

Chapter One

Erin Joy Delong stood before the closed conference-room door. On the other side lay the truth she needed to face no matter how ugly. Grasping the doorknob, she took a deep breath and turned it.

All talking ceased. The air-conditioning clicked on, filling the dead silence.

Erin looked at each of the seven men seated around the table. No one would meet her gaze except for the stranger standing at the head of the table. A slide of his presentation on how to reorganize the bicounty rodeo lit the screen behind him.

Her knees nearly buckled. She hadn’t gotten the job. No, the job of reorganizing the rodeo that her great-grandfather established had gone to a total stranger.

“Erin, we didn’t expect you,” Melvin Lowell, the rodeo board’s president, said.

She didn’t doubt it. “Sorry I’m late, but after I talked with dad’s doctors at the hospital this morning, I ran into a big accident on the interstate just outside Albuquerque. Then, finding this unscheduled Thursday meeting proved tricky, since you’d moved it from the rodeo headquarters.”

The men around the table shifted in their chairs as if they were ashamed of themselves. They continued to avoid her gaze.

“How’s your father?” Mel asked, as if nothing was off-kilter.

She stepped into the elegant meeting room at the new conference center. “He’s improving from the stroke, but we won’t know the extent of the damage for several days. I drove in as his representative on the board.”

“Is that legal?” Norman Burke, one of the board members from Harding County, asked. “I mean, if he can’t talk—”

“You can call my mother or the floor nurse at the hospital, Sylvia Carter, who witnessed Dad nodding for me to represent him until he came back.”

“Oh.”

Erin glanced at the man giving the presentation and caught the hint of a smile that crossed his face before it disappeared.

The muted brush of her boots on the carpet was the only sound in the room as she walked to the empty chair on the opposite side of the table and sat. In front of her was a slick folder that read “Tucumcari Rodeo Proposal by Sawyer Jensen.” Her eyes jerked up and clashed with Melvin’s. He didn’t look away.

“I take it Mr. Jensen won the contract?”

“Yes, we voted for him at the last meeting,” Mel replied, his head held high. “Didn’t anyone tell you?” Too much satisfaction laced his voice. Most of the other board members kept their gazes fixed on the table.

“No, but you know with all the chaos that occurred the day of the vote and Dad having the stroke afterward, it was the last thing on Mom’s mind.”

Norman Burke glared at Mel. “Cut it out, Lowell. The lady has more on her plate than this rodeo.”

“Of course.”

If Mel’s words were meant to be accommodating, they failed.

“You don’t have to stay, Erin, since we’ve already hired Sawyer. I’m sure you’re tired after spending that much time at the hospital. But we wanted Sawyer to meet with us and show us his plan again and answer any further questions we had,” Mel said.

Panic spread through the room. Several of the board members looked as if they wanted to escape, but retreat was the last thing on Erin’s mind. Her hometown needed this revitalization. A successful rodeo would bring in much-needed people and revenue to help their bottom line.

“Thank you for your concern, Mel. But, as I said before, I’ll be Dad’s representative until he’s well enough to come back.”

A couple of men shifted in their chairs; throats were cleared, but no one said anything.

“Sawyer, why don’t you continue explaining your overall plan to us?” Melvin said, ending the tense moment. “I’m sure Erin would like to hear it.”

“We’re on page three, Ms. Delong.” Sawyer nodded to his presentation folder.

Fingering the folder, Erin studied Sawyer Jensen. The handsome man stood over six feet with sandy-brown hair and compelling hazel eyes that did funny things to her stomach, which she ignored. He had a scar on his chin below the corner of his mouth. When his eyes met hers, there was no smugness in those green depths, but admiration, instead. She didn’t understand his reaction, but it eased the blow. As she studied the man, she had the feeling that she’d met him before.

Sawyer started to explain his strategy to save the rodeo and put it back in the black.

Chalking up her body’s reaction to stress and the long drive this morning, Erin opened the folder. She tried to follow Sawyer’s presentation, but it seemed she’d gone deaf and blind. Looking up through her lashes, she saw Melvin studying her. She would not cry in front of him or any of the other board members. Nor would she cry in front of this stranger. That wasn’t Erin Delong’s way. When her ex-boyfriend had announced, at their high school graduation, that he was engaged to Traci Lowell, Mel’s daughter, she hadn’t cried, much to Traci’s disappointment. Maybe Traci’s father thought he could make her cry this time. Of course, the meeting wasn’t finished yet.

By the time they adjourned, Erin couldn’t tell what Sawyer had said. For all she knew he could’ve suggested they burn the old rodeo grounds down and sell tickets to bring in money.

Most of the board members hurried to where Sawyer stood, taking a wide berth around her to shake Sawyer’s hand and comment on his presentation. Their guilty faces made her wonder if they thought she’d throw a fit or break down in tears if they got too close. She could assure them that neither would happen, but they clearly weren’t going to take any chances.

Only Chris Saddler stopped by where she stood.

“I’m sorry you didn’t win, Erin. I voted for you to get the job. With you being local, and knowing the history of the rodeo and what resources we have, I thought you’d be best, instead of an outsider.”

Chris was one of her dad’s friends. She stood. “Thanks, Chris, and thanks for the heads-up this morning. Being at the hospital, you lose sense of time.”

He opened his mouth to say something more, then closed it. He nodded and walked away.

Mel was the last one to shake Sawyer’s hand. “A good presentation. If you have any questions, just call me, Sawyer.”

Snatching the slick folder off the table, Erin headed for the door. Later, when she could think clearly, she’d read it over and evaluate his plan to see how it differed from hers.

“Ms. Delong?”

The deep voice calling her name sent shivers down her spine. It also stopped the other board members in their tracks at the door, no doubt expecting fireworks between her and Sawyer. Torn between wanting to plow through the bodies clogging the way out and facing the man with the wonderful rich voice, she straightened her shoulders, turned and faced him.

He stepped to her side. “Would you mind if we talked?”

Puzzled frowns crossed the board members’ faces, and she heard a couple of them whisper.

“I’d love to, Mr. Jensen—”

“Sawyer is my first name.”

“—Sawyer, but I last ate at seven this morning before visiting my dad in the hospital. After consulting with his doctors and my mother, I drove here. With the delay on the road, I never got the opportunity to eat. I’m probably not good company right now.” Although it was only 1:40 p.m., food would help her thinking and dealing with this mess.

The man flashed a killer smile at her. “I haven’t had anything, either, since breakfast in Amarillo, and I could use some sustenance, too. A full stomach helps me think and helps my attitude. Why don’t we go and get a burger and talk?”

“So you think my attitude is bad?” she asked.

At the tone of her voice, groans erupted from the men at the door.

“No,” Sawyer answered evenly. “I was talking about myself. And when I’m hungry, I don’t listen well.”

More groans.

She nodded. “Understandable.”

His eyes twinkled.

Erin didn’t know whether to grin at his cheekiness or ignore him. “What’s there to talk about? You won.”

“Well, with your late arrival, you didn’t get to hear my complete proposal and I wanted the opportunity to discuss some of my ideas with you. Since you put in a bid, I’d like to get your reaction.”

Was he teasing her? Did he want to rub her nose in her failure? She searched his face for any sign of duplicity, but found nothing. She needed some time to process all this, but she wouldn’t let the board members see her disappointment. “I’m going next door to Lulu’s Burgers. If you want to join me, I won’t object.”

The man didn’t take offense at her tone. “Give me a second to unplug my computer and projector and pack them up.”

So the equipment was his. She’d wondered where the board had found money to buy such nice equipment. “I’ll be waiting next door.”

She walked through the crowd of gawking faces clustered at the door, Mel’s being the most outraged. Too bad.

* * *

Well, he’d been in more awkward places than this, Sawyer thought, but not many. There’d been that time, in Nevada, when the man who’d hired him to turn around the Western Days Rodeo had his wife and sister barge into the meeting and start screaming at each other. The women hadn’t stopped screeching long enough for him to understand what the fight was about. Things quickly went physical, and the women threw anything they could get their hands on. Sawyer ducked a cowboy statue, but the owner wasn’t as lucky and was coldcocked by a glass paperweight thrown by his wife. Of course, as a turnaround specialist, Sawyer had been in his fair share of tense situations and been able to bring the warring sides together.

Sawyer had seen the shock and sadness flash in Erin’s eyes before the protective shield came up to cover her emotions. His heart went out to her, or maybe it was just plain attraction that struck him like a fist to the chin. After his brother’s recent marriage, Sawyer realized how alone he was now, and a restlessness settled inside him. The brothers hadn’t really had a home since that little apartment behind the church in Plainview in the Texas Panhandle, but it hadn’t mattered because they’d been a team. Together against the world. But now?

“You’re not going to have lunch with that woman, are you?” Melvin walked back into the room.

Sawyer grabbed his laptop and the projector. “I am.”

“Why?”

“Because I’m hungry.”

Melvin sputtered. “But you won.”

Sawyer nodded toward the outside glass door. Melvin opened it. When Sawyer had arrived this morning, he’d driven to the rodeo board’s office, then followed Melvin to the new convention facility.

“Winning makes a poor lunch, Mel, and when Erin mentioned food, my hunger hit me like a kick from the old mule my dad worked with. And since the place is right here, why not eat?”

Melvin opened his mouth, but nothing came out.

“Besides, I’d think you’d want me to see if I could win the woman over, get her on my side. It will make things operate smoothly. I don’t want any disruptions.”

“Well, yes, but—”

“I’m glad you agree. It will make things better later on.”

Sawyer stored his equipment in the long steel toolbox that ran the width of the bed of his truck. Turning, he faced Melvin and waited for the rest of his comment.

“Well?”

Mel glared. “Don’t be surprised if she bites your ear off and spits it out.”

“I’ll consider myself warned.”

Mel gave a curt nod and strolled to his car.

Sawyer’s curiosity about Erin was piqued as he walked to the restaurant. His competition for this job was certainly much better looking than the one for the last job. Of course, from all the panicked looks thrown at Erin when she’d walked into the room, and from the dire warning just issued, he’d have to be on guard. The lady wasn’t just a pretty face. But, as he thought about it, Sawyer couldn’t shake the feeling that he’d met Erin somewhere before. Where, he couldn’t say, but—

When he opened the door to Lulu’s, the smell of burgers smacked him in the face, making his mouth water. Chrome-and-Formica tables à la 1950s vintage dotted the restaurant, with several booths by the windows. A jukebox sat close to the front door. Pictures from previous rodeos hung on the walls, along with ribbons from different 4-H projects. In the center of one wall was a large picture of Erin racing around a barrel, her long hair flying from beneath her cowgirl hat, her elbows out and her body low over the neck of the horse. A ribbon hung off the corner of the picture with a plaque below announcing State Champion. The picture impressed him. The lady knew her way around a rodeo, that was for sure, and he knew she’d have some ideas.

In a booth by the windows sat Erin. As he approached the table, she pointed to the opposite wall. “If you want to eat, you have to order at the counter behind you.”

She wasn’t going to make this easy, but, oddly enough, that didn’t put a damper on his spirit.

He glanced over his shoulder. A large menu covered the wall behind the order counter. He turned back to her. “Recommend anything?”

“Try Lulu’s chili burger.”

He nodded and ordered the burger. When he joined her, he noticed that she had opened his proposal. Sliding onto the bench across from her, he asked, “What do you think?”

“That you know how to put together a proposal.”

“That’s it?”

She placed her forearms on the tabletop and leaned forward. “I haven’t read it all. Your slick marketing diverted my attention.”

He didn’t think she meant it as a compliment, but he couldn’t help smiling. He’d impressed her. “Well, it’s geared to do that.”

“Let’s see if the sleek outside matches what’s inside.” She looked down at the presentation.

If he didn’t miss his guess, it would take a lot to win over this woman. He didn’t mind competing with others for a job, but he would’ve liked to have known there was a hometown applicant in the running against him.

He studied her while she read his plan. The lady’s long dark hair hung as a single thick braid down her back. If he didn’t miss his guess, she had Native American blood flowing through her veins, but with a name like Delong, he wondered. She must be five foot seven or eight, since she stood just at the right height for him to kiss her with ease. The thought startled him and he must’ve made some sound.

“What?” she demanded.

He waved away the question. “Nothing.”

She went back to reading.

Kissing her? That crazy thought had to be fallout from the wild morning he’d had, combined with his brother’s recent marriage. Caleb’s main focus now would be his wife, and the new baby they were expecting. But it left Sawyer feeling at loose ends. The brothers had depended on each other to survive their teen years. Well, they weren’t teenagers anymore, but Sawyer felt a certain part of himself missing.

“I know you haven’t had time to completely look over my proposal,” he blurted out, “but did you have any follow-up questions to the presentation I made? Is there anything you might not have been comfortable asking in the presence of the others that I can answer now?”

The instant the last word fell out of his mouth, he knew he’d stepped in it. The fire in her eyes blazed. “I didn’t mean—”

“Understand, Mr. Jensen, I don’t suffer from shyness. I know my mind and will speak it. But I don’t go off half-cocked, either. I’ll know what I’m talking about when I open my mouth.” She leaned in. “There’s an old saying about keeping your powder dry until ready to fire. That’s me.”

He wanted to smile but resisted the urge. He knew better than to throw gas on a fire, but her strong spirit attracted him like metal filings to a magnet. “Good to know.”

He had to admire her reaction. She didn’t go ballistic, cry or stomp out of the meeting room like his last girlfriend would’ve or his mother. It looked as if she would give him a fair hearing. The thought surprised him. He sat back. Glancing over at the wall, he saw her picture again. “When did you win your ribbon?” he said, diverting his thoughts.

She glanced up. He nodded to her picture.

“Oh, that ribbon—high school.”

Meaning she’d won a lot more. “Lulu helped sponsor me that year at the state fair. Since she helped, and raised money for me, I thought she should get the ribbon.”

“I understand. My winnings helped put me through college. I competed in the summer and between semesters to earn enough money for school.”

“Really?”

“I do know my way around a lasso.”

With a thawing of her coolness, she leaned forward.

He thought he caught a hint of respect. “I’m not just some college-educated busybody who thinks he knows how to solve the world’s problems. My brother and I have been rodeoing since we were both teens.” He rested his hand on the table. “I’ve lived it. The last time I worked and competed was last June in the little town of Peaster, Texas.”

Her eyes widened in an ‘aha’ moment. “You were at the charity rodeo?”

“I was. I worked in tandem with my brother, riding pickup.”

“I was there, too, competing in barrel racing. Talked with the organizer, Brenda Kaye, about how she put together the rodeo, hoping to pick up some ideas on how to save our rodeo.”

“Brenda did a great job. When my brother confessed he wanted to marry her, I cheered.”

“She’s your sister-in-law?”

“She is, and getting her degree in counseling. She’s an Iraqi war veteran and wants to help fellow vets.”

Erin’s expression softened, making him feel less like the monster who’d stomped her dreams.

The waitress showed up with a burger. “Here you go, Erin.” The teenage girl placed the plate on the table. “Yours will be out in a minute, sir.”

“If my burger is as good as this one smells, I can’t wait.” He grinned at her. “And my name’s Sawyer. Sir makes me feel old.”

She nodded. “I’m Rose. Mom cooks the best burgers in this part of New Mexico. Really, she’s the best cook hands down.” A ding of “order up” sounded and the girl disappeared.

Erin grabbed a French fry and popped it into her mouth as she continued to study his proposal.

The waitress appeared again with his burger. “Here you go, Sawyer. Enjoy.”

“Are you still doing the work/study program in high school?” Erin asked Rose.

“Yup, and I have a ton of ideas I want Mom to try.” She walked back to the kitchen with a little spring in her step.

Erin bowed her head, silently asking a blessing.

Sawyer liked that and joined her. When he looked up, she studied him.

He didn’t say anything, but picked up the hamburger and took a bite. The flavors of chili and meat danced on his tongue. “You weren’t kidding.”

“Sawyer, I’m known for a lot of things, but being funny isn’t one of them.”

“So you don’t laugh?” He took another bite of his burger. He felt some chili slide down his chin.

“How’s the burger?” A rawboned woman stood at the end of the table. From her posture, the woman knew her way around the restaurant and wasn’t afraid of hard work. She smiled when she saw the chili on his chin. “Ah, I see you’re enjoying my special burger.”

Wiping his chin, he nodded to Erin. “She wasn’t fooling when she said this burger is the best.”

The woman blushed. “Thank you. Our Erin is a treasure. Anyone who has a problem talks to her for ideas and advice.”

“You’re going to be seeing a lot of me in the next few weeks,” he said after swallowing.

“Erin, did you acquire a new boyfriend that you didn’t tell us about?”

Erin choked on her tea.

“No. He’s not mine,” she shot back. “Ask Mel about him.”

Lulu frowned. “You’re not making any sense.”

Sawyer grabbed another napkin from the dispenser, wiped his hand and chin, then held out his hand to the woman. “I’m Sawyer Jensen. I’ve been hired to work on your rodeo.”

“You didn’t win the job?” Lulu glanced at Erin. “You okay with that?”

Erin sat quietly and studied Sawyer. “I’ll let you know after I’ve read his proposal.”

Eyes narrowed, Lulu focused on him. “You’ve got some mighty big shoes to fill, mister. Like I said, folks around here tend to depend on Erin.”

Sawyer now knew that he wasn’t the odds-on favorite of some of the people in town. He’d have to turn on the charm. “I’ll try, ma’am. And I hope to consult with Erin here after she has finished reading my proposal.”

“I’d like to hear her ideas, myself. Not that I don’t trust you, but we know Erin.”

“No offense taken.”

“How is your father?” Lulu asked.

“The doctors think he’ll recover, but how quickly they don’t know. Right now they are still evaluating him. He’s conscious, but not talking.”

Lulu nodded. “I’m sorry about that. If you need anything, let me know.”

Erin let down her guard long enough that he saw the worry in her eyes. “Thanks.”

He took another bite of the burger, which confirmed what his taste buds had already told him. “Oh, this is good.”

Several more locals entered the restaurant and clustered at the order desk.

Erin nodded at them.

Sawyer wanted to ask her about a good place to stay, but he wasn’t sure she’d welcome giving him more advice.

Taking the last bite of her burger, she threw her napkin on her plate. “I’ll finish your proposal tonight and get back to you after I’ve thought about your suggestions and plan of attack.”

A reasonable response, but he’d keep up his guard. “Do you still ride barrels competitively?”

“I do and was in Denver competing when I got word about my dad’s stroke.” She fell silent. “Five days,” she whispered to herself. She shook her head and picked up her thoughts. “I left the competition and dropped my horse at our family ranch before driving to see Dad. I didn’t know the result of the vote on the contract until this morning when I saw you standing at the head of the table.”

He tensed.

“Congratulations.” She held out her hand.

He took it, and he felt an electric charge race up his arm, scrambling his brains. “Thank you. I welcome all input.”

“Really?” Her arched brow and the twinkle in her eyes gave him pause. He knew a challenge when he saw one.

“Absolutely. Once you’ve read through my plan, I’d welcome your input.”

“If you’re pulling my leg or trying to smooth things over with the little lady, you’ve seriously misjudged the situation.”

“No, I meant what I said.”

“Good, because I’ll have input.”

“I look forward to it.”

Her mouth slowly curved into a smile that could only be categorized as one of pure determination.

The door to the restaurant opened and a couple around Erin’s age walked in. The woman had beautiful blond hair that fell beyond her shoulders. Under the ton of makeup she had slathered on, she might’ve been pretty, Sawyer thought, but she just looked hard. She scanned the restaurant, clapped eyes on them and marched to the table much like General Patton marching across France.

“Erin, what a wonderful heart you have.” The woman’s voice dripped with sugar and venom. “I could’ve never eaten with the man who beat me out for a job I wanted, but here you are dining with our new turnaround specialist,” she said. Her raised voice echoed through the restaurant. The smirk on her face told Sawyer this woman enjoyed Erin’s humiliation.

Erin didn’t look up as she calmly collected the proposal and put it into her tote. The man with the blonde looked panicked.

Sawyer held out his hand. “Sawyer Jensen. And you are?”

“Traci and Andy Hyatt,” the man responded.

“My father is Melvin Lowell,” Traci announced, as if that said it all.

Sawyer stole a look at Erin. She didn’t look nervous or upset. She simply sat back.

Andy cleared his throat. “I’m sorry to hear about your dad, Erin. I always liked him.”

Traci elbowed her husband.

“What?” Andy asked. “Detrick always treated me well. I’m sorry to hear about his stroke.”

“Thanks, Andy,” Erin replied. “Dad felt the same about you.”

There was a wealth of meaning buried in those words. Andy glanced at his wife, who glared back.

“Watch your back with this one. You might find a knife there,” Traci warned, pointing toward Erin.

Andy pulled his wife away from the table. “Let’s order.”

Erin didn’t offer any explanation, but the tension the couple caused lingered.

In a small town there were lots of undercurrents that could take down an outsider in an instant, and Sawyer had just encountered one. You had to pay attention to body language and tone if you wanted to save yourself. He’d learned that lesson the hard way with his mom’s constant stream of boyfriends.

“Can you recommend a place to stay while I’m here?” he asked, wanting to change the subject.

Erin’s gaze settled back on him. “The board didn’t arrange a place for you to stay?”

“No, it wasn’t mentioned.”

“Well, there are quite a few motels.”

“What about that interesting-looking motel I saw a block over when I drove into town? The one that looks like a big sombrero?”

“Are you sure you want to stay there? It was built in 1937. We have more modern places.”

“No, I kinda like its style. A blast from the past.”

“Most of the rooms don’t have TVs. And their phones are the big black rotary kind.”

For some reason, the lady didn’t want him to stay there. Why?

Before he could respond, a couple walked into the restaurant. They nodded to Erin and made their way to the order counter.

“I think I can handle that,” he said.

Erin studied him, but before she could respond, they heard, “What?” The man at the counter said, “You’re joshing me?” He looked over his shoulder at them.

“You sure, Lulu?” the woman questioned.

Instantly, the couple walked over to their table.

“You didn’t win, Erin?” the man asked. “This is the stranger who won?” They looked from Erin to Sawyer.

Sawyer felt the gazes of the couple boring into his back.

“I can’t believe the board voted for a stranger over one of our own, especially after what happened with your father,” the woman added.

“It was a fair vote,” Traci called out from across the room.

The man glared at her. “I think we all know how you feel.”

Sawyer heard a strangled protest.

The man ignored it and focused on him and Erin. “Why go with a stranger? I know you and trust that your ideas would save the rodeo.”

“I’ve just skimmed his plan, Bob, but I wouldn’t jump to a conclusion before I’ve really studied it and thought about what he plans to do.”

Bob considered Erin’s suggestion. “Sounds good to me. I think the board needs to have a meeting tonight to let the rest of the town listen to this man’s ideas. The longer we don’t know what he wants to do, the longer we’ll be in the dark, and I want to know what’s happening from the beginning.” He whipped out his cell phone and punched in a number.

Erin sat quietly as they listened to Bob.

“Mel, I just learned that you gave the contract for the rodeo to a stranger.” He paused, obviously listening to Mel. “Okay, Sawyer Jensen.”

Everyone in the restaurant listened, but Sawyer watched Erin’s expression. Her defense of him to Bob surprised him. She wanted to give him a chance. He didn’t know what to think or feel.

Bob nodded. “I think that’s an excellent idea. I’ll call around and we’ll get enough people together tonight to listen to this man’s ideas. At seven.”

Another look passed between Erin and Sawyer.

“That’s no excuse. If the board members from Harding want the same for their residents, they can do it tomorrow.” Silence. “You may be head of the board, but that can be revoted.”

Traci’s gasp sounded through the room.

“Good. We’ll gather tonight at the new conference center.” Bob hung up and nailed Sawyer with a look. “We’re going to listen to you tonight. You got a problem with that?”

“No, I’d welcome the opportunity to present my proposal to the residents.”

“Good.” Bob glanced at Erin. “I couldn’t do less than check this guy out.”

“Thanks, Bob.”

“You always favored her, Bob,” Traci shouted.

“And if you’d driven my son around while I was in the hospital and my wife was with me, then I might’ve favored you, too, Traci.”

No comment came from the table behind them.

“Come on, honey. I’m hungry,” his wife said.

With a final look, the couple walked back to the order window.

Sawyer knew it was time to leave. “I’d like to check into that motel.”

“You sure?” Erin said.

“I am.”

Shrugging, she stood and walked outside. “We could walk, but you probably have luggage and equipment that you need to put in your room, so we’ll drive.”

He nodded. “I’d like to ask one question.”

Her shoulders tensed.

“Who’s Bob?”

She visibly relaxed. “Robert Rivera owns the hardware/feed/tractor store. If you need something for your ranch or farm, chances are Bob has it or can order it or knows where to get it.”

“And he’s not on the rodeo board?”

“He used to be, but family stuff has kept him busy, so he resigned. He was on the board with my father and they usually voted against Mel. It made things lively.”

“I’m sure it did.”

“And be warned, things could get vocal tonight.”

“I’ll consider myself warned.”

He swallowed his smile. She may have thought she could scare him away, but she didn’t know who he was. His professional reputation as a man who could bring success out of defeat and turmoil was at stake. But more than that, there was something here in this town that called to him and he wasn’t going to ignore that call. He’d turn the rodeo around and make it thrive. And the beautiful woman who would challenge him had nothing to do with it, he reassured himself.

* * *

It took less than three minutes for them to drive over to the next block and park in front of The Sombrero Motel, a prime example of art deco. The lobby was shaped like the high conical crown of a sombrero, surrounded by the curved brim of the hat sporting red, green and yellow stripes at its base. The hotel’s color resembled a big swimming pool.

Erin still couldn’t believe he wanted to stay here instead of one of the newer places. “Change your mind?”

“Nope. This place looks great.” He carefully ran his gaze over the building.

“Carmen Vega, the owner, bought it ten years ago, when she came back from Denver after working for several different hotel chains. She grew up seeing The Sombrero and had always loved it, so she bought it and restored it.”

“Good to know.”

Pushing open the glass door, Erin called out, “Hey, Lencho, how’s it going?”

The young college-aged man looked up from his reading. “Erin, what are you doing here?” He stood.

“I’ve brought you a paying customer.”

“Good, things are kinda slow right now, but next week, we’ve got more people coming in. The historic-motel crowd of Southern California has booked the place.”

Erin made the introductions, and Lencho handed Sawyer an old-fashioned registration card used circa 1937.

Sawyer stared down at it.

“Carmen believes in the full-blown experience,” Erin explained.

Sawyer shrugged and went to work filling out the card.

Erin leaned over the counter. “What are you studying, Lencho?”

“Differential equations. I have to have it for the engineering degree.”

Erin laughed. “I had a couple of courses that I could’ve done without in college. But fortunately I grabbed one of the bowling slots as my PE.”

It took Sawyer less than two minutes to fill out the card.

Erin peeked at it. “No TV?”

“I want the full experience.” If she thought she’d scared him, apparently she was wrong.

Lencho pulled the key out of a cubbyhole behind the registration desk. “You want me to show you to the room?”

Erin laughed. “If he can’t find room two, the board’s going to be in real trouble and needs to rethink giving him the rodeo job.”

The youth stilled. “He got the job? I thought you applied for it.”

She shrugged.

“But we’re having an impromptu meeting tonight for the town folks to review my plan,” Sawyer explained. “Please come.”

“Bob organized it,” Erin added.

The youth looked from Sawyer to her. “I’ll be there. I don’t want to miss any of that action.” He rubbed his hands together. “We haven’t had so much excitement since Denise Sander’s burro got loose, ended up in Melvin’s yard and ate the flowers, tomatoes and chilies growing in his garden.”

Lencho gave Sawyer the key, an actual old-fashioned metal key.

“I haven’t seen anything like this in a long time.”

Erin’s brow arched. “Full experience, remember?”

“True.”

Motioning Sawyer outside, they walked the seventeen steps to room two. The motel consisted of twelve rooms with the sombrero-shaped lobby anchoring the east end of the structure. The twelve rooms surrounded a central patio covered by a pergola and scattered with various cacti. Massive Mexican clay pots dotted the patio area along with concrete benches decorated with Mexican tile. Room twelve anchored the far end of the three-sided structure. The lobby stood closest to the old Route 66.

“I’m impressed.” He motioned to the patio.

“Carmen and her uncle landscaped the courtyard after they finished the rooms, using original plans the owners had drawn up when the motel was built.”

They stopped at the door of room two, and he unlocked it. Stepping inside, he slowly surveyed the cool interior. The slick lines of the desk and chairs could’ve come from any of the Thin Man movies popular in the thirties. No TV, and a big black phone on the desk. Beside it was a Tiffany-style lamp with a cut-glass shade of brown, yellow and orange glass. A wonderful painting of the desert landscape at sundown hung on the wall over the bed. She loved this decor, but he didn’t say anything.

“Does this meet with your approval?” She grinned at him, enjoying his reaction or nonreaction. She’d warned him.

He didn’t bat an eye. “This is fine. Is there a Wi-Fi connection somewhere close?”

“In the lobby.”

“Thanks for the heads-up.”

“I hope you keep that positive attitude when we meet later tonight.”

“I’m looking forward to it.” No hesitation colored his response.

She wanted to grin. “I hope so.”

Chapter Two

Erin had finally managed to find her footing. Her father’s stroke had tilted her world off its axis, but when she had raced to the board headquarters today and found nobody there, she’d known another blow was around the corner. Talking to Mel’s secretary about where they were, Erin knew. She thought she’d been prepared for the blow of losing out on the job she so wanted, but the instant she opened the door and saw Sawyer standing at the head of the table, she realized she wasn’t. Why hadn’t her dad called her with the news? How soon after the meeting had the stroke happened? Mother wasn’t clear on the details.

She shook off the trivial thoughts. What was important was that her father had survived the stroke, not that she hadn’t gotten the job. They’d spent countless hours on the phone, talking about what needed to be done in the update. He’d mentioned the other candidate that Melvin brought in, but Dad thought it wouldn’t be a problem, at least the last time they talked, which was a few days before the vote.

She’d tap-danced her way through today’s board meeting.

Pushing open the lobby door, she looked at Lencho. “How are you doing in your classes? Are you keeping up your grades?” Her dad had tutored the young man his freshman year in high school.

“I’m okay.” He looked through the glass door and watched as Sawyer moved his truck from the far side of the office to park in front of his room. “How do you feel about that guy?”

She shrugged. “I’ll be interested in hearing his plans tonight.”

“I’m sorry that you didn’t get the job.”

Erin realized that the young man felt uncomfortable that she didn’t win. “Don’t worry. I’m not surrendering. I’ll keep him on track. You remember, we didn’t let you flunk out of algebra. Well, I’m not simply going to walk away from the rodeo and give up.”

“No matter how much Traci lobbied for the other guy?”

The kid wasn’t telling Erin anything she hadn’t already figured out. “You got it.”

“Good. Of course, I was surprised the guy didn’t take the room with the TV.”

“I guess we have a lot to learn about him.”

“True.”

“Does he know anything about rodeo?” Lencho asked.

Mel wasn’t going to foist any greenhorn on the community, not even to please his daughter. “He does. He claims to have won several events at different rodeos.”

The kid brightened. “Let’s look him up on the internet.” He opened his laptop and did a search on Sawyer’s name. Erin walked around the counter and peered over his shoulder. Sawyer’s name came up in the search engine along with a listing of his wins.

They silently read the list. He’d made a name for himself.

“Well, you’re right. He’s no greenhorn.” Pointing to the computer screen, Lencho said, “He’s got a brother, too, who did pickup.”

“He told me.”

They read about Sawyer’s brother.

Taking a deep breath, Lencho shook his head. “He looks like the real deal.”

He did, indeed, and from what they’d learned about Sawyer’s and his brother’s backgrounds, they were the real deal who participated in rodeo. Sawyer had the credentials to know what the cowboys needed, but Erin knew this rodeo and these people and knew the background that Sawyer didn’t. “We’ll find out tonight.”

* * *

Erin tried to listen to the car radio on her drive home and ignore what had happened at the board meeting. She started to hum with Tim McGraw about heading down this road again.

But her wounded heart refused to let go of the hurt.

What had been the final tally of the board members? She knew Melvin hadn’t voted for her. Of course, his daughter thought Erin was a cross between Godzilla and Cinderella’s stepmother, but that stemmed from Traci’s unreasonable fear that Erin would steal back Traci’s husband, since he’d been Erin’s high school sweetheart. Andy had wanted to marry Erin, but she hadn’t wanted to settle down so soon. Going to college had been her goal but, no matter what she said to Andy, he never took her seriously. Traci often told Erin what a good catch Andy was and why not marry him? Traci thought Erin had lost her marbles not to take up Andy’s offer. The instant he broke up with Erin, Traci swept in and captured her man. Erin had not been invited to the wedding even though it had been a Christmas affair. When Erin returned home the first time after she started college, Traci made it clear their friendship was over, much to Erin’s surprise. Why Traci acted the way she did, Erin didn’t understand. She got her man and Erin got to go to college.

How many other members of the board had followed Mel’s lead in voting for Sawyer? Why had they voted for an outsider instead of a hometown girl? That’s what hurt the most.

It’s business, the logical part of her brain argued, but her heart said the vote was against her personally, not her proposal.

Pulling off the main road, she drove down the drive to the ranch house and parked her truck under the covered carport and breezeway that ran from the kitchen to the barn.

She didn’t go into the house, and instead walked to the corral behind the barn to see her horse, Wind Dancer. The moment the horse saw Erin, she trotted over to the fence and head butted her.

Reaching out, Erin stroked the horse’s neck. “Did you miss me, girl? I’m sure Santo took care of you.” The horse arched her neck and then raced around the ring, coming to a stop in front of her.

Looking down at her long skirt and boots, she realized she needed to change. “Give me a minute, Dancer, and I’ll be back.”

It took less than five minutes for her to grab her bag from the truck, change into jeans and race back outside. Her brother, Tate, hadn’t come home from school yet, and Erin didn’t know where her aunt Betty was, but they’d show up.

Erin didn’t bother with a saddle. She grabbed reins and a halter, opened the gate and slipped them on Dancer. Erin hopped on Dancer and rode out of the corral. Horse and rider started slowly, and then Erin leaned close to the horse’s neck as Dancer picked up speed. They were in their element, racing across the high desert, dancing on the wind.

Erin could feel herself touch the face of heaven, giving up her wound and the hurt of not winning the contract to reorganize the rodeo.

Finally, Dancer slowed to a walk and stopped. Leaning over, Erin rested her head on the horse’s neck. “I was blindsided when I walked into that meeting, girl. Felt as naked as the day I was born.” She sat up. “So what am I going to do now?” She looked to heaven. “I need some direction here, Lord. I don’t know what to do, but I know I’m not giving up.” She thought for a moment and remembered the look of admiration in Sawyer’s eyes when she’d initially faced off with Mel. There was something about the man that intrigued her and drew her. It didn’t make sense, but then nothing in the past few days did. It was one of those times when you just held on to God and knew He’d guide you through the storm.

“Of course, Bob did set up the meeting tonight, so I need some wisdom there.”

The instant the words were out of her mouth, she knew what she needed to do and that wasn’t feeling sorry for herself.

* * *

Sawyer finished storing his things in the room and remembered how Erin had watched him as he’d registered at the historic motel and surveyed his room. If he didn’t miss his guess, she’d thought he’d call uncle and go to one of the newer chains. As he’d played along and taken the room, he’d discovered that he liked it. She intrigued him. He didn’t know what he’d expected when she’d appeared in the conference room, but it wasn’t the woman he encountered. He didn’t know quite what to make of her, but he had a feeling he’d find out. He’d walk cautiously around her until he knew what to expect. Would she be fair—or fight dirty like his mom and last girlfriend? He’d had enough of clingy and manipulative women.

Walking back to the lobby, Sawyer found Lencho hadn’t moved from the desk and his homework.

“Is the room okay?”

Oddly enough, the room had the feeling of home—strong, sturdy, something that would be there for a long time. He hadn’t had that experience growing up until his big brother had taken responsibility for the two of them. “It’s great.”

The kid studied him as if he didn’t believe his ears.

“What I need are directions to the rodeo fairgrounds.”

Lencho pointed to the brochure stand in the corner of the room. “You’ll find maps there.”

Sawyer retrieved a brochure and laid it out on the counter.

“So you beat out Erin for the rodeo job?”

Sawyer looked up and studied the youth. “I did.”

“I’m surprised. I mean, everyone in town knows if you need something done, Erin’s the one who can do it. And she always comes through.”

“So I hear.” He had his work cut out for him to win people over. “But maybe the board wanted someone who isn’t familiar with anything here to look at the situation with new eyes. Suppose you’re looking at one of your equations and can’t see how to solve it. You’ve worked and worked on how to get the answer, then someone else looks at it and sees where you’ve gone wrong and points it out. The same is true with the rodeo. Maybe someone who’s not familiar with it can see a problem, or even just do it a different way, and solve the situation.”

Lencho thought about it. “That makes sense.”

Sawyer studied the map to orient himself with the streets.

Pointing to where they were, Lencho said, “Go down to First Street, turn right, and when you get to US 66, turn west and on the outskirts of town you should find the fairgrounds.”

“Thanks.”

He followed Lencho’s directions and, within ten minutes, found the grounds. On the north side sat the rodeo arena with chutes and corrals, and on the south side stood the football field. In between the two sat a midway with accompanying food stands and game booths.

After parking his truck, he walked through the grounds, inspecting the facility. It wasn’t in bad shape but needed upgrades. He pulled out his cell phone and took pictures to document the conditions. As he stood on the bleachers, he could imagine Erin on her horse, flying around the barrels in the main arena. He would have liked to see that.

The thought caught him off guard. He was the last person on earth she’d want to run into, he imagined, unless it was an opportunity to offer her suggestions. Still, he would’ve loved to watch her race. Maybe he could in the future.

He sat and pulled a small notebook out of his shirt pocket and jotted some notes. Later, when he was back in his room, he’d update his PowerPoint, giving his initial thoughts, and incorporate the pictures he took this afternoon, pointing out how he’d redo the midway and food stands. He put the phone in his shirt pocket and headed back to his truck. He wanted to assess the roads leading into the rodeo grounds, which needed to be included in his overall plan, but as he drove away, he kept thinking of seeing Erin ride. When he worked on a rodeo, he never let his personal feelings interfere. There were a couple of times when the ladies he’d worked with wanted to take the relationship to another level, but he never did.

But this time—he stopped the thought cold.

What was wrong with him? Since his brother’s wedding, Sawyer had been having all sorts of weird thoughts, and he chalked up his reaction to Erin as post-wedding blues. Did men get those? Surely that was the explanation.

* * *

Stepping into the house after her ride, Erin ran into Aunt Betty. Her salt-and-pepper hair hung in two braids, tied off with twine. Her colorful skirt and white blouse, belted at the waist, were her normal garb. Auntie preferred traditional Navajo dress. Besides, she teased, she couldn’t fit into jeans the way Erin and her sister, Kai, could.

Mother had called her sister after Dad’s stroke to come and watch over Erin’s younger brother, Tate, a senior in high school. Mom thought Tate needed Betty’s calming influence. Erin knew she should’ve come back with Auntie and Tate on Sunday, but wanted to stay to see how her father responded to the treatment the hospital provided.

“There you are. When I didn’t find you, I knew you were out on Dancer.”

“I can’t fool you, can I?” Brushing a kiss across her aunt’s cheek, Erin walked to the sink and got a large glass of water.

Betty studied her. “What’s wrong, Daughter?”

In her mother’s family, grown aunts and cousins called the younger members of the family Daughter or Son. It meant you were never alone and always had eyes on you, which was both a blessing and a pain. Erin thought about trying to divert her aunt’s question, but no one got anything by Aunt Betty or Mother. They were nabbed every time they tried. Erin and her sister had learned not to try. Unfortunately, their brother, Tate, hadn’t.

“I went to the board meeting in Dad’s place. They hired the other person who applied for the job.”

“What’s the matter with those men?” Betty shook her head. “Someone should knock them in the head. They know you and how you’ve given to this town. If someone wants something done, you get a call, and that includes the children of board members. And they are not shy about asking for your help. You remember when Mel asked you to help Traci get through Algebra One? He wanted her to pass the class, but with you and your father tutoring her, she made a B minus. And then there was Chris Saddler’s boy wanting help with his science project—”

“That’s enough, Auntie. It’s done.” Erin didn’t want to dwell on what was. She slipped her arms around her shorter, rounder aunt. “Thanks for believing in me,” Erin whispered into her aunt’s hair.

“You carry too much on those small shoulders. Not every problem is yours to solve, Daughter.”

Erin stepped back, blinking her eyes. “True, but I have ideas on how to help the rodeo, and I cannot turn away. Besides, Dad wanted me to take his place on the board.”

Shaking her finger, Betty said, “Rest and take care of yourself. We don’t need another bird with a broken wing. With your father in the hospital, your mother needs you whole.”

Erin couldn’t deny that, but so far, her mom appeared to be bearing up under the load. “How is Tate doing?”

Betty didn’t answer. She walked to the table and sat down. Erin joined her.

“What’s wrong?” Her brother’s freshman year in high school had been rough, and he’d given her parents no end of trouble, with skipping school and not wanting to go to church with them. But he wasn’t given a choice whether or not to go to school and church. So he’d gone, and his sophomore and junior years had been better. He’d been doing well until their dad’s stroke, then retreated into himself.

“Your brother acts as if nothing happened and life is fine. But I see behind the mask he’s wearing. There’s much trouble in his heart.”

“I’ve worried about that. Kai mentioned he acted as if he didn’t have a care in the world while at the hospital before I got there. She said he’d even disappeared for a couple of hours and no one could find him.” Erin shook her head. “We all know he’s hurting, Auntie, but—”

“I thought he seemed off when I picked him up at the hospital Sunday night, but he said nothing to me on the ride home,” Betty said, shaking her head.

“He’s a man—a young one,” Erin defended, “but a man. When was the last time your husband sat down and talked to you when he was troubled about something?”

Betty smiled. “You’re right.”

“The town’s having an impromptu meeting tonight about the rodeo. I’d like to shower and change clothes before going back.”

Betty narrowed her eyes, making Erin feel guilty. “What’s the name of this person who won the rodeo contract over you?”

“Sawyer Jensen.”

“I think I should go to this meeting, too, even though I don’t live here. Your mother might want my observations.”

“You sure you want to go?”

Betty’s eyes twinkled. “There’s more going on than rodeo discussion.”

True, there were lots of undercurrents, but if Erin didn’t attend it might look like she was hiding—and that wasn’t happening. Besides, Sawyer might need her to referee. The thought made her grin. She discounted her reaction to the man.

“You’re right, but I’m afraid the meeting will not be a peaceful one.”

Betty shooed the concern away. “Have I ever been known to run from a challenge?”

“No, Auntie.” And that’s what made Erin nervous.

* * *

It appeared the entire town of Tucumcari had turned out for the impromptu meeting that night. Sawyer had his presentation cued up on his computer and plugged into the overhead projector. He’d added a couple of slides he’d taken this afternoon to bolster his points on the changes he thought needed to be made.

A wave of sound ran through the audience. Sawyer glanced up and saw Erin, an older woman and a teenage boy walk into the room. People pointed the group to the front row, where several seats were left empty. The trio made their way forward.

The older woman stopped at the edge of the stage and waved Sawyer forward. Erin stood behind the woman, but the youth walked over to the empty seat and threw himself down. He shot Sawyer a look that said he was bored. His body language echoed his disdain at having to be there.

Sawyer moved to the edge of the stage, then jumped down. “Ma’am. I’m Sawyer Jensen. And you are?”

“Betty Crow Creek.”

He glanced over at Erin.

Betty cleared her throat. “I’m Erin’s aunt. I’m here while Erin’s mother is in Albuquerque with her husband.”

Sawyer held out his hand. “It’s nice to meet you.”

Betty shook it. “You appear normal. Really, a handsome man.”

Erin blinked.

To cover his surprise, Sawyer smiled. “Thank you.”

Betty folded her arms over her chest. “I expected someone who had two heads and was maybe green.”

Sawyer’s eyes widened.

“Auntie!” Erin’s strangled protest could be heard only by Betty and him.

His mouth twitched with humor. “Am I the ogre you were led to believe?”

“Erin only said you won. In my mind I expected a monster who’d turned my niece’s world upside down.” Betty glanced at Erin, and then turned back to him. “I’m the one who imagined you with green skin and living under a bridge.”

So far, he was batting zero.

Melvin stood, stepped to the podium and started the meeting. Betty and Erin took their seats. Showtime.

* * *

Twenty minutes later, after Sawyer finished his program, he opened for questions.

Erin had listened carefully to the plan Sawyer laid out. She had to admit he’d thought of some aspects of the rodeo that she hadn’t and his plans were good.

Bob stood. “Have you actually been to the fairgrounds yourself?”

“I went this afternoon and updated the slides in the presentation,” Sawyer answered. “The board sent pictures so I could evaluate the situation, but after seeing it myself I changed and tailored some of my ideas for this facility.”

“I can vouch for that,” Melvin added.

Bob didn’t look convinced.

A brisk discussion followed, with people asking questions and commenting on the presentation.

Bob stood again. “I’d like to hear Erin’s plan, too, see how it compares with yours.”

Erin stood, red faced, as she turned to her neighbors and friends. “The board evaluated both proposals and thought this was the better plan.” That started another argument that lasted for the next ten minutes.

Erin looked around and knew this back-and-forth helped no one.

She motioned for everyone to be quiet, and it took a few seconds for everyone to quit talking. Traci glared at her from her second-row seat.

“I appreciate everyone’s support and faith in me, but listening to my proposal won’t settle anything. The board has already voted, and, after reviewing Sawyer’s plan, I’d say he has a good one.”

Several people started to protest, but she held up her hands. “I like his ideas on how to bring outside money to our rodeo and city. I hadn’t thought about that.

“There were a couple of other ideas that surprised me, but I think they might work here. But I also have a few items that Mr. Jensen didn’t think about, and I plan to suggest them to him and push to implement them.” She grinned. “He won’t remain unscathed.”

Standing, Bob said, “You sure, Erin?”

“I am.” She scanned the audience. “What we need to do is all come together and start working on the rodeo. A good idea is a good idea.” She turned back to Sawyer. “No matter who came up with it.”

She heard chuckles in the audience. “So, I think now that we’ve heard Sawyer’s plan, we should get behind it and support it one hundred percent.”

Melvin’s mouth hung open, and his wife had to elbow him. From Traci’s expression it looked as if she’d sucked a lemon, but Andy nodded to Erin.

Erin took her seat again.

Sawyer stood by the podium. “Any more questions or comments?”

The room remained quiet.

“Then I guess this meeting is over.” Sawyer walked down the stage steps to the floor of the room, waiting in case anyone wanted to talk privately. No one came by. He didn’t know if that was good or bad. But what he did know was Erin had stood up for him. That found a spot in his heart.

* * *

Erin’s friends clustered around her, asking questions. This time, her brain had comprehended Sawyer’s words, and she saw her neighbors’ reactions. She’d been impressed. He’d put together a thorough plan to get their rodeo back on its feet. But she had modifications that could maximize his ideas.

As she talked with other residents, Erin saw out of the corner of her eye Sawyer packing up his laptop and projector. When he walked by Tate, her brother said something. Sawyer stopped. The two exchanged words, then Sawyer walked on.

Aunt Betty frowned and leaned close to Tate. “I may be old but...”

Erin couldn’t hear the rest of what her aunt said. Tate shrugged and jogged up the other aisle out to their car.

What had that been about?

Now, several of the board members gathered in front of the stage around Sawyer. Bob joined them.

“I’m going to go through the facility tomorrow morning to do a more detailed inspection, making notes on what needs to be updated or replaced. I’d be happy to have anyone walk through with me,” Sawyer announced to the room.

“I’ll be there,” Bob Rivera replied. “You going to notify the folks in Harding?”

“I will,” Sawyer replied.

Bob nodded his approval.

Sawyer looked at Erin, silently asking if she would be there.

“You’ll see me,” Erin answered. She tried to keep her expression neutral, but felt a smile curve her lips.

He returned the smile, which made her heart light.

Later, when she and her aunt walked out to the car, Erin asked, “What was all that about with Tate and Sawyer earlier?”

“Your brother was just trying to give the new guy a hard time.”

“What’d Tate say?”

Betty kissed Erin’s cheek and opened the passenger-side door. Obviously, Auntie wasn’t going to tell her.

Why?

Chapter Three

Sawyer parked his truck in front of his hotel room, grabbed his laptop and projector, and slipped out of the truck.

“Let me help you,” Lencho called, walking to Sawyer’s side and taking the projector.

Sawyer grabbed the key from his pocket and opened the door.

“I liked your presentation for the rodeo.”

Sawyer nodded. “Good to hear.”

“I did want to hear Erin’s plan, and when she said it wasn’t necessary, it surprised me, knowing how competitive she is.” He shrugged. “But if she thought your plan was good, we can count on it.” He grinned. “I know she’ll give you her ideas, and she ain’t shy about voicing her opinion.”

“Really?”

Lencho opened his mouth to respond, but saw the teasing in Sawyer’s face. Opening the door, Sawyer motioned Lencho inside. The young man put the projector on the desk.

“So, you’re telling me that Erin will keep me honest.”

Red ran up the teen’s neck. “I didn’t mean it like that, but if you give her your word, you better live up to what you’ve said.”

“Good to know.”

“And it’s the same with her. If she gives you her word, you can count on it. And she has another thing. It’s kinda related to her first thing. Don’t lie. It ain’t worth it.”

“So you’ve been on the wrong side of her?”

“Uh, kinda. But it only happened once,” he quickly added. “And you always know where you stand with Erin. I like it. She’s not like other girls who want to play head games.”

Obviously, the young man thought the world of Erin.

“Thanks for the advice.”

“No problem.” He left, closing the door behind him.

Sawyer locked the door and sat down in the flowered chair by the table in the room. The meeting tonight had been much easier than he’d expected, due to Erin’s intervention.

Her actions puzzled him. He knew she wanted the job, so why’d she give up so quickly? He hadn’t seen her proposal, but had it been inferior to his?

That thought didn’t sit well with him. So what was it?

She had cut off Bob’s insistence to prolong this process. But why? What motivated her? His experience with competitors was that they didn’t act out of noble purposes. So, why’d she do it?

He stood and retrieved his laptop. Before he could boot up, his phone rang.

“Hi, Sawyer, how was your first day on the job?” Caleb, his older brother, asked. “Did it go well?”

“It’s been an interesting day.”

“Oh? What happened?” The tone of Caleb’s voice changed from teasing to serious in a heartbeat.

“There was another competitor for the job, and some of the townspeople wanted to hear her ideas. She’s local talent.”

“She?”

Sawyer explained the situation with Erin and her qualified support tonight. “And the final twist is that she didn’t know the results of the vote until she walked into the board meeting.”

“So was there a big scene?”

“No.”

Both men remained silent.

“Do you think she acted that way to stay in with the rodeo redo just to make your life miserable?”

After thinking a moment, Sawyer said, “No. She doesn’t strike me as a woman with a sneaky side. So far she’s been up-front and honest.”

“You mean she’s not trying to manipulate you like Mom?”

Sawyer thought about it. He didn’t know Erin well enough, but his gut feeling told him no. “Tonight at a public meeting, she put an end to the argument about my winning.”

Caleb didn’t respond. Finally, he said, “Well, just watch yourself. We’ve been on the wrong side of people before.”

“True, but enough about me, how’s that wife of yours doing?” Sawyer wanted to get the topic off him and onto the new baby coming.

“She says she’s okay, but she keeps puking. How could that be fine?”

Sawyer’s concern spiked. “Is anything wrong?”

“Yeah. Morning sickness. She can’t stand the smell of coffee anymore.” The last words out of his mouth sounded strangled.

Sawyer laughed. “This is a new development.”

“It is. The first time she threw up on me, I thought it a fluke. But time two and three, we knew.

“Herbal tea. She wants me to drink herbal tea. Have you ever tasted that stuff? Looks like dishwater and smells about as bad. I’ve seen stagnant creeks I’d drink out of before the stuff she’s drinking.”

“It’s a small price to pay for me having a niece or a nephew.” Sawyer wanted to laugh again, but took pity on his brother.

“Are you going to give up coffee to support me?” Caleb demanded.

“Nope. So what are you doing about it?”

“Running to the barn where Gramps brews a pot of coffee. Brenda knows what we’re doing and stays away until ten. I’m wondering if I’ll live through this.”

Sawyer had to laugh. “You’ll live.”

Caleb mumbled something.

“You’re going to have to gut it up, brother.”

“That’s what Gramps says, but I don’t know if he knows what he’s talking about. Do you know how many things could go wrong?”

“Trust him. He’s seen his children and grandchildren born. He knows more than us. And Brenda being Brenda, if something’s wrong, she’ll see about it. Is she going to quit going to school?”

“No.”

The quickness of his brother’s answer told him that Caleb had made the mistake of asking his wife the same question. Sawyer grinned. “If she doesn’t think she’s in danger, then relax. I think your wife wants you to unwind and help her.”

“If you say so, but I want you to be careful about the woman you told me about.”

“Will do. Let me know how things are there.” Sawyer hung up and sat staring at his computer.

Caleb thought Erin had another agenda. He’d have to be on his guard against her no matter how strangely his heart reacted to the woman. But there was still something about Erin Delong that he was missing. What?

* * *

The next morning, Erin arrived at the rodeo grounds before any other board member. She parked by Sawyer’s truck, took the last swig of her coffee and got out.

“Ah, a lady who likes her coffee,” Sawyer commented as he walked toward her.

“Guilty as charged. I haven’t met a cowboy who doesn’t run on it.” She placed her travel mug in the center console between the front seats and closed the door.

“True.” He shifted, then smiled at her. “I wanted to thank you for your words of support last night.”

She nodded. “But, as I told Bob, I plan to have my say if I see things that need to be done.” She had relived that meeting multiple times after she got home, checking whether she’d missed anything. The man seemed to rattle her thinking processes, leaving her to wonder if she’d lost her edge. Usually, she found it easy to cut through to the heart of the matter or see what drove a person. With Sawyer, she felt blind, groping in the dark. He made her feel nervous and off-balance. And what her senses told her, she didn’t believe, which was a first for her.

“I’d expect nothing less.” He nodded to her, but there was something else in his eyes that she couldn’t nail down. Was that humor? Interest?

Before she could respond, Mel drove into the parking lot, followed by several other board members in their vehicles. Five minutes later, Harding County board members arrived. Bob Rivera also appeared. “Morning.”

They walked through the empty rodeo grounds discussing Sawyer’s plan and other concerns the board members had. Bob hung back and observed the tour.

“Who do you have a contract with to provide the rides?” Sawyer asked Mel as they stood in the empty area where the rides would be located.

Mel named the company they’d used previously to provide the carnival rides for the rodeo.

Sawyer frowned. “I wouldn’t use them this year. I have the names of a couple of different vendors.”

“Why?” Chris Saddler asked. “We’ve worked with that company for years.”

Erin could always count on Chris to bring up questions she had. When Chris asked a question of Mel, he got answers. When she asked a question on the same subject, Mel gave her nothing but grief.

“The company you’re using had a lawsuit filed against them last week, and their safety record is iffy,” Sawyer answered.

The board members all looked at Mel.

“Did you know about their history?” Norman asked.

“This is the first I’ve heard of this.”

Erin kept her mouth shut but met Mel’s gaze. She and her dad had argued with him about the company, but he had pushed aside their concerns.

Mel ground his teeth and turned to face Sawyer. “I’ve heard rumors. We can look into your suggestions,” he said reluctantly.

As they finished the tour of the grounds, Mel did a good imitation of a petulant child, with his stomping feet and bad attitude. The other board members grew uncomfortable with his actions.

“I think half these vendor booths should be offered to people in Harding,” Norman stated.

“And if there are not enough people in Harding who want to pay for one of the booths, offer the rest of the booths to anyone in the state who wants to rent them,” Erin added.

“Good idea,” Bob Rivera said.

The others agreed.

“Okay, I can get those contracts reviewed and awarded,” Sawyer added.

The group started toward their cars. Mel stepped closer to Sawyer. “You were hired for your talent and not anyone else’s.” Mel glared at Erin.

“So does that mean you don’t want me to consider any of the suggestions from the other rodeo board members that vary from the original contract?” Sawyer spoke loudly enough for everyone to hear. “And does that warning include you?”

Everyone stopped.

Mel glanced around, then swallowed. “No, that’s not what I meant.”

“Good, because if any of the local residents or board members know of a way to cut costs to bring us in under budget, I want to know.” Sawyer turned to the others. “I’ll email updates weekly to the board members and have the changes posted at the rodeo office.”

The members nodded and walked to their cars.

Mel shot Erin a last disgruntled look and trudged to his truck.

Bob waited behind with Erin and Sawyer. “Well, Mr. Jensen, you just got on Mel’s bad side.”

“Could be.”

“Thankfully, you were already awarded the contract,” Bob added.

“True, but once the project gets started, Mel will change his mind.”

“Don’t count on it.” Bob nodded to Erin and Sawyer and walked away.

Erin stood there absorbing Sawyer’s defense of her. It was the last thing she had expected from him, but there it was, warming her heart. It was something not a lot of people did for her. They always expected her to be the strong one, defending others. To be on the receiving end of it was like a gentle rain on her parched soul. “Thanks for your support.” Erin didn’t know how to handle this man. Too often, other professional men not from around here approached her ideas with skepticism. He didn’t seem fazed by her suggestions but, instead, welcomed them.

He nodded. “I liked your idea to make sure all the booths were occupied.”

Oddly, she wanted to preen over his compliment. “It’s just common sense.”

His rich laughter filled the air. “Sometimes common sense is the last thing that rules.”

“True.”

“I’m heading back to the rodeo office to go over the books for the last few years. I could use help from someone familiar with what’s gone on before, and a board member would be perfect for the job.”

The offer only added to her confused reaction to him. “I’ve got the morning free, so I can do that.”

“Good.”

They walked to their trucks.

“Growing up, I spent a lot of time on these grounds. I looked forward to September when the rodeo came,” Erin said.

“I understand. Summers my brother and I followed the traveling rodeo wherever it went.”

“What’d your parents think of that?”

His expression slammed shut, throwing her back on her heels. “My father died when I was young.”

The tone of his voice didn’t encourage any other questions. “I’m sorry.” Erin didn’t push. “I’ll see you at the offices.” She opened the door of her truck and slid into the driver’s seat.

Pulling out of the parking lot, she glanced in her rearview mirror and saw Sawyer standing by his truck, studying her.

“I guess he thought I might get into his business. Too bad the man doesn’t know me,” she said out loud. A smile slowly curved her lips. “But he’ll learn.”

* * *

When Sawyer walked into the offices of the bicounty rodeo, Erin sat talking to the secretary.

“I appreciate your prayers, Lisa. Dad’s improving a little each day.”

The women stopped and looked at him.

“Did you get lost?” Erin asked, her voice light.

“No, but I drove through the rodeo grounds and confirmed that the back entrance to the grounds needs the road widened and marked.”

“Excellent idea,” Erin replied.

Lisa grinned.

“What?” Sawyer looked at both women.

“Erin proposed that last year, but Mel disagreed and wouldn’t bring it up at the board meeting.”

“Well, I agree with you.”

“Good to know.”

“Let’s move into the other room and start working on this rodeo.”

A small office stood behind the reception area. Down from the office was a meeting room where Sawyer and Erin could spread out. On one side of the room were bookshelves filled with binders of past rodeos. The notebooks went back to 1937.

“I see this rodeo has a long past.” Sawyer nodded to the notebooks. “It’s great it’s been documented.”

Erin pulled the first notebook off the shelf. Carefully, she put the binder on the table, opened it and slowly turned the pages.

Looking over her shoulder, Sawyer read the name of Clayton Delong. He stepped closer. “Clayton Delong? Is he related to you?”

She looked up. Suddenly, the air between them thickened with awareness. Her eyes drifted toward his mouth. Swallowing, she said, “He was my dad’s grandfather. The rodeo has always been connected with my family, but as time has gone on, others in the community have bought in. When our rodeo combined with the Harding County rodeo, the Delong share diminished, but Dad still sits on the board.”

Her interest in the rodeo suddenly took on a different dimension. This was family heritage. He could respect that and admire it, but he hoped he’d read her right and she’d work to make this redo a success and not want to make it about the Delong name. So far, she’d indicated she wanted the rodeo’s success, but he’d been fooled before, so he knew not to let his heart lead the way. That didn’t stop his heart from pounding at her nearness. He was here only to fix the rodeo, nothing more.

He swallowed the lump in his throat. “So this is in your blood.”

“It is. But since the rodeo merged with the Harding County one, our family has not been as involved. Plus, I’ve been away at school and competing in barrel racing on weekends elsewhere, so I’ve not been here. Dad’s called me and told me about the problems, but that’s ancient history. Let’s talk about your plan and how to implement it. And, if it needs to be tweaked, we can see about that.”

Well, if he thought she’d back off, he realized he was mistaken. But he wasn’t fazed in the least.

She opened the massive tote she had with her and pulled out his proposal, a notebook and several pens, setting them on the table. “I’m ready.”

He knew a challenge when he saw one. “Let me get my papers.”

She smiled in a way that indicated this wasn’t going to be easy. She would have her say. When he walked back into the room, he had his notebooks and her proposal.

She pointed to her proposal. “Why do you have that?”

“I found it in here when I was looking for the financial records for the losing years of the rodeo, and I wanted to read it.”

“And?”

“I thought you had some good ideas, so let’s discuss how we can incorporate them into my plan.”

The corners of her mouth curled up. “Did you find the records for last year?”

“No, and I’d like to see those, to find out where the money was spent.”

“My father, as a board member, has a copy of those records, but they’re at home.”

Erin stood and walked out to Lisa’s desk in the reception area. “Do you know where the financial records are for the past several years?” Sawyer heard Erin ask.

“They are in Mel’s office.”

“Could we see them for the last year?”

“Sure, I’ll get them.”

Erin appeared back in the boardroom. Before they could get started, Lisa stood in the doorway. “Those records are not in Mel’s office. I have last year’s numbers on a flash drive in my desk. I’ll bring it to you.”

Several minutes later she reappeared. “I can’t find the flash drive, either. It’s not in my desk.”

Sawyer met Erin’s gaze.

“Lisa, that’s okay,” Erin reassured her. “If you find either the hard copy or your flash drive, let us know.”

Once they were alone, Sawyer said, “That doesn’t speak well of the record keeping around here.”

Erin shook her head. “It’s not Lisa’s fault.”

“Then where are the documents?”

“You’ll need to talk to Mel. He’s the one in charge.”

So Mel was in charge of the documentation? The only reason Sawyer could think of everything disappearing was that Mel had something to hide.

* * *

For the balance of the morning, Erin and Sawyer went over his proposal page by page as they sat in the conference room. Erin wanted to understand his thinking and how he planned to execute his ideas. She’d prepared herself to argue her viewpoint, but much to her surprise, Sawyer didn’t discount her opinion. He listened to her suggestions, considered modifying his plans, questioned her reasoning, then they came to a consensus. She welcomed his reasonable reaction, so different from Mel and some of the other men she’d dealt with in town.

“So, are you using some of the local residents in this rebuilding?” Erin asked.

“Is there a cement contractor in town?”

He knew there wasn’t but wanted to make his point.

“No, we both know that, but there are local artisans who are excellent welders, and iron workers who know how to make the rodeo grounds more appealing for the visitors and horses. They could do some of the smaller projects. They’d welcome the work, and their hearts would be in the game.”

Leaning back in his chair, he studied her. “I had planned on using larger companies out of Albuquerque for the main infrastructure components. But I’d like to encourage local craftsmen to bid on some of the smaller projects. I thought I’d add to the rodeo web page a list of the jobs that need to be done.” Sawyer picked up his pen and tapped it against the table. “I have a budget I need to stick to, Erin. I don’t think the board wants any overruns.”

He had a valid point.

“But you might not reach all the local craftsmen. One of the local iron workers refuses to use the internet.”

“So, if I wanted to advertise for local iron workers and other people to hire, where would I do that?”

She blinked. Her mind had geared up to argue for the local residents, and he’d short-circuited her brain. Again.

The glint in his eyes caught her attention. “Bob Rivera is the man who knows everyone in this county and the surrounding counties. We could walk down to his store and ask him. Or, better yet, we could list the jobs, post it in his store and ask for bids. It’s not modern and high-tech, but some of the artisans prefer face-to-face business deals.”

“I like that idea. Why don’t we make that list, then go over to Bob’s and post it? The sooner we fill the contracts, the sooner we get to work.”

For the next few minutes they worked on Sawyer’s laptop creating the job list. She’d been impressed he didn’t ask the secretary or her to do it, but did it himself. Too often, she’d seen the guy in charge think the underlings should do the work.

“I should’ve had you type my econ paper.” She laughed. “You’re faster than I am. I flunked keyboarding in school and did the hunt and peck method my dad does. Why, even Tate is faster than me.”

He chuckled, then saved the file and hit Print. Then he walked to Lisa’s desk and waited for the printer to spit out the list, but nothing happened.

He quickly jotted down the jobs on a piece of paper.

“You did notice that I recommended the first thing they spend money on was a new computer and printer,” Erin commented.

“I did. That will be one of the first purchases I make.” He closed his laptop and notebooks and put them back in his office.

A glow of pride shot through her.

“Remember what I told the other board members? A good idea is a good idea no matter who suggests it. I don’t have a corner on the market.”

As they walked down the street to Bob’s hardware store, people came out of the buildings, seemingly curious. “Come see,” Erin answered. The people followed behind. Erin heard murmured comments.

When they entered the hardware store, Bob and Tom Kirby, a local rancher, were at the checkout counter talking.

“Morin’, Erin.” He looked at Sawyer and nodded.

“Is there something I can help you with?” Bob asked.

Erin heard the other residents filing into the building.

“Sawyer and I have been discussing the rodeo redo and how to implement it. Sawyer needs the names of local vendors who want to bid on working for the rodeo.”

“Oh?” Bob frowned at Sawyer. “I thought he’d want to use the big boys out of Albuquerque.”

“I’m open to all bids. I do have a budget, but I want to include as many local vendors as possible. They know the history of the rodeo, and that could put a different spin on the work they do.”

Конец ознакомительного фрагмента.

Текст предоставлен ООО «ЛитРес».

Прочитайте эту книгу целиком, купив полную легальную версию на ЛитРес.

Безопасно оплатить книгу можно банковской картой Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, со счета мобильного телефона, с платежного терминала, в салоне МТС или Связной, через PayPal, WebMoney, Яндекс.Деньги, QIWI Кошелек, бонусными картами или другим удобным Вам способом.