Page 9 of The Cowboy's Ultimatum

“Ah, I understand.”

“Why didn’t I see it? What’s wrong with me?” she muttered, fighting an unexpected swell of emotion.

“Would you like me to come over so we can talk about this in person?”

“I thought you were busy.”

“I was, but I’m ready to call it quits.”

“Um…can I come back there? I want to see her again and give her carrots.”

“Of course. Why don’t you stay over?”

“I’d like that, I really would. Then I can be with her first thing in the morning, and I’ll help you clean out the stalls as a thank you. I owe you.

“Hey, you don’t owe me, darlin’, but that sounds like a plan. See you when you get here.”

“Thanks, Andy. I won’t be long.”

* * *

As Andy ended the call he let out a relieved sigh. Helen had finally seen the light. Now she was open to learning what he had to offer, and he had no doubt her relationship with Daisy would blossom. But as he cleaned up the last of his dinner dishes a comment she made floated through her head.

Erin’s nothing but a nasty bully. I can’t believe I’ve been letting her ride my lovely mare. I feel so guilty.

With a smile curling his lips, he walked into his bedroom and lifted out a small, black suitcase with a combination lock. Popping it open, he picked up a pair of fur-lined handcuffs, a blindfold, and a small, brown leather paddle. Gazing at his other wicked toys, though he wanted to add more, he resisted the temptation.

“These should do the trick this time around,” he muttered, sliding the implements beneath one of the pillows.

He had just finished folding back the bedspread when he heard Helen’s truck stop outside the house. Hurrying down the hall, he stepped outside and welcomed her with a long, tight, bear hug.

“I needed that,” she murmured as they broke apart. “Thanks for letting me come over.”

“You’re welcome here any time. And I’m not just sayin’ that. Are you ready to walk up to the barn and visit your girl?”

“Yes, yes, and yes. I’ll give her some of her special treats.”

“I’m sure she’ll be happy to see you, treats or no treats. I take it you’re still feelin’ guilty?” he remarked as they started walking up to the barn.

“I am. I can’t shake it. I just keep going over it again and again in my mind. How could I have been so stupid?”

“We all make mistakes, but when they affect an animal or person we care about, that’s when the guilt kicks in. The good news is, I can help you get past it.”

“You can? How?”

“I’m not sure if I should tell you.”

“I don’t understand.”

“You will, but go and see Daisy,” he said as they entered the barn. “I’ll fetch her treats.”

“You have me very curious. Can you give me a hint?”

“Nope.”

* * *

Watching Andy as he disappeared into the feed room, Helen felt an odd sensation ripple through her body. But Daisy nickered, wanting attention.

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