Page 32 of The Cowboy's Magic Touch

“Because stars need to be brought back down to earth.”

“So, do you think you need a trip over my knee?”

“Um, yes and no.”

“Explain.”

“Yes, because just the thought makes me feel all weak and wonderful, and no because I won’t be able to leave you again,” she said softly, then taking a breath she added, “Brody, I’ve missed you so much. I’ve missed our amazing, special times more than I can possibly say.”

“You don’t have to explain, I feel the same, and even though I’m crazy proud of you, there’s a part of me that wants to spank you for leavin’ me.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

When they neared home they spotted the deputy’s car parked on the side of the road across the street from the gate. As Brody pulled his truck beside it, Annie lowered her window.

“Hi, Brody,” the deputy called.

“Hey, Luke.”

“I’m Luke Carson,” the deputy continued, smiling at Annie. “It sure is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Baker.”

“Please call me Annie, and thanks for being here. Can I get you some coffee or something to—”

But before she could finish a bolt of lightning flashed overhead followed by a thunderous roar.

“Dammit, we need to get the horses in,” Brody exclaimed, pressing the remote to open the gate.

“I’ll help you,” the deputy offered.

“Jump in next Annie. I’ll drive up to the paddocks.”

“You’re already cramped with your dog between. I’ll follow in my car.”

“Sounds good, and thanks.”

“Oh, no,” Annie muttered as rain started splashing against the windshield. “We’re too late. At least there’s only six of them.”

“With the lightnin’ they might get antsy. I’d rather have Luke help me. We’ve become friends over the last year and he knows what he’s doin’. But if you could put a flake of hay in their stalls that would be great. And stay there. No sense all of us gettin’ wet,” he declared as he rolled to a stop.

As she climbed from the truck and ran into the barn, Bella ran after her, while Brody and Luke hurried into the paddocks.

“Take the grey, the chestnut and two dark bays over there,” Brody yelled, trying to be heard over the downpour as he pointed to the pasture closest to them. “They go in the first four stalls.”

Picking up the halters looped over the gates, Brody jogged to the second paddock and was opening the gate when another crack of lightning lit up the sky. River, a nervous black colt, began bucking and running. Moving up to Luna, his calm mare, Brody slipped on the halter, then returned to the nervous horse and managed to herd him into a corner. Slowly approaching and still holding Luna’s lead rope, Brody stood in the pouring rain and stroked his neck.

“It’s okay, River, just nature havin’ a tantrum.”

“I can take Luna.”

Though Brody heard Annie’s voice he kept his attention focused on the colt.

“Easy, fella, I’m here now.”

When he sensed the young horse beginning to settle, he moved the halter slowly into place.

“I can take Luna?” Annie repeated as Brody continued working with the frightened young horse.

“Okay, but don’t wait for us. Just keep walkin’.”

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