Page 29 of The Guy Who Stole My Ranch

Will:Are you still planning to meet for breakfast in the morning?

I scowled, and the first response that came to mind would have gotten my mouth washed out with soap as a kid. How had I forgotten about breakfast? I should have cancelled before he left.

Brooke:I’m busy.

He answered immediately.

Will:May I have a rain check for next week?

I was about to type back “No way” when I was hit by inspiration. Why not let him think things between us were okay? I could lull him into a false sense of security and then surprise him. I sent a thumbs up and set my phone down.

I would spend every minute of every day between now and when he arrived coming up with a plan to thwart him. I’d do whatever it took to keep my ranch.

Chapter 8

-William-

“What exactly are you doing in the middle of Texas again?” Courtney asked as she looked out the window of our private jet.

We’d started our descent into San Antonio a few minutes before, and I was surprised Courtney had waited this long to inquire about our destination.

“Investing,” I said.

She pouted. “That’s all you’re going to tell me?”

Most of the world saw my sister as a tall, slender brunette who liked to dress to the nines and throw men away when she got bored of them like they were chewed gum.

Yes, she was all of those things, but the two of us had a good relationship. When we were alone, she let her guard down. If anyone else was present, Courtney would wrap her public persona around herself and turn into the woman the tabloids said she was.

I sat back and took a drink of mountain spring water from Switzerland. My mother insisted it be stocked on every flight, even if she wasn’t around. I had to admit, it was excellent. When I lowered it from my lips, I said, “That’s all.”

Courtney folded her arms. “You know I’ll get it out of you eventually.”

“Uh-huh.” Courtney was the one person I knew how to tease.

“Fine.” She threw her hands into the air, then picked up her own water. “Just tell me one thing, is there a woman involved in this?”

I gave her a flat stare. “No, Mother.”

As if our mother could hear us, my phone rang with an incoming call from her.

Courtney pointed and laughed.

I steeled myself for yet another uncomfortable conversation and answered. “Hello, Mother.”

“William.” Her tone was firm. “Why was I not aware that you were going to be out of town this coming weekend?”

Because I’m not obligated to update my calendar for your social needs.

“I’m in Colorado for business,” I said.

“Can you make it back before Saturday morning?”

I poured as much regret into my voice as I could. “I’m afraid not.”

“Why?” Mother and Courtney had the exact same pouty voice.

“Does she have a girl for you to meet?” Courtney asked in a whisper.

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