Page 19 of The Cowboy's Ultimatum

“Sure do, Andy. What’s up?”

As Andy explained the mysterious meeting Helen was about to have with a stranger known only as Kenny, Brody immediately agreed it was cause for concern.

“I want to be there. I’d stay in the shadows and make sure nothin’ happened, but I have a six person clinic goin’ on, and they’ll be comin’ by this afternoon right around the time Helen will be at the restaurant.”

“Ah…I totally get it and I’m more than happy to pinch hit. I’ll arrive at the parkin’ lot early, and when she meets up with this guy I’ll video them with my phone. I’ll also go inside and video in there as well, assumin’ I can do it unseen. I got to know the staff when Annie and I were married there. They’ll help me out if I need them to.”

“Perfect, thanks, Brody. I owe you one. I’m probably overreacting but I can’t shake this bad feelin’.”

“Hey, after what Annie and I went through with that crazy manager of hers I don’t take anything for granted, and I never will again. I’ll keep you posted as things play out.”

“Fantastic, thanks Brody,” Andy said gratefully, but as he spoke he heard a couple of horses whinny. “The sheriff will have a car close by as well, but I think I heard Helen come in. I’ll catch you later.”

“Sounds good. Bye for now.”

“Andy? Are you here?” she called as Andy hastily ended the call.

“Yep, in the office.”

“Why didn’t you wake me?” she asked, walking in as he stood up and stepped around the desk.

“It was early and you were sleepin’.”

“But I wanted to help you feed and clean.”

“Not to worry, it’s all done, but I’m starvin’,” he said as he hugged her. “Have you had breakfast?”

“Nope, but I’ve whipped up some pancake batter. It’s just waiting to hit the pan.”

“Sounds great. Let’s go, and when we’re done we’ll come back and put the horses in the paddocks.”

“Unfortunately I have to go home,” she said with a sigh as she pulled back. “Mom’s hosting a charity event over the weekend and I totally forgot I promised I’d give her a hand today. But I’llcome back here right after I have that meeting with Kenny—if you want me to,” she added quickly.

“Sure I do, and don’t worry about havin’ to help your mom. I’ll be tied up with my clients anyway. They’ll be comin’ by for a meet and greet.”

“Uh, Andy, about Kenny. I honestly don’t know what he wants, but I’m sure it’s nothing romantic.”

“I’m not worried about that, not for a second, but I do think it’s odd he wants you to keep it a secret. Don’t you?”

“Yes, I do. It’s weird.”

“Will you do me a favor?”

“Anything.”

“Don’t go anywhere with him.”

“Where would I go?”

“I mean, if he asks you to go for a drive or show him around, please say no.”

“Actually, he mentioned Lake View Point.”

“That place is isolated. You can’t go there with him, or anywhere else.”

“I won’t, but I’m curious. Why isn’t that place more popular? It’s so gorgeous.”

“When the mountain snow starts meltin’ the water levels can rise like crazy and flood the area.”

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