Page 30 of The Cowboy's Ultimatum

“What exactly was said?”

“He was talking about the envelopes he’d given me, and mentioned the library. He said he knew every nook and cranny of my parent’s house, and not to—what was it he said? He never did things half-assed and never doubt his homework skills.”

“And you said…?”

“I said, if that was true…” she began with a heavy sigh, “why did he send that big brute to the ranch after you without checking the facts? That’s when he hit me.”

“Ah, I see. Not the smartest question you’ve ever asked.”

“No, and I’m worried.”

“Let’s go inside and talk. I’m dyin’ for some coffee.”

“Okay.”

As they climbed from the truck, she glanced across at the horses happily grazing. Soon it would be time to bring them in, and in spite of her sore cheek she wanted to help.

“So, darlin’, sit down and tell me what’s on your mind,” Andy said when they entered the kitchen.

“Kenny and this place. You have no security cameras, no alarms, nothing. If he wanted to cause trouble before or after the party, he could, and you wouldn’t be able to do much about it.”

“What reason would he have?” Andy asked as he set about making the coffee.

“Does a guy like Kenny need a reason? But if you want one, he might want to scare me again after I exchange those envelopes at the party. Or even just to show us he’s in charge. I’m worried about it.”

“You might be right,” Andy said thoughtfully, moving across to join her at the table.

“I have a bad feeling,” she said with a worried frown. “Today he showed me how quickly he can snap. I’ve always known he lives on the edge and he’s a tough guy, but I never expected him to send that thug over here after you, and I sure as hell didn’t think he’d ever hit me for no reason. What else will he do?”

* * *

Wordlessly rising to his feet and moving back to the counter, Andy poured two cups of coffee, brought them to the table, fetched the milk and sugar, then sat down.

“You’re so quiet,” Helen said softly. “What are you thinking?”

“I hate to say it, but I’m thinkin’ you’re right. We’re sittin’ ducks here. Someone could sneak into the property and I’d be none the wiser. I could get workin’ on alarms or a security system, but I have no idea how long it would take. I’ve never felt the need for something like that so I’ve never looked into it.”

“So what can you do. What canIdo. This is all my fault. I’m the one who brought all this to your doorstep.”

“But you didn’t do it purposely.”

“It doesn’t matter. Trouble came knocking because of me. Hey, I have an idea. Maybe we can put up a tripwire that will make a bell clang if someone tries to creep up the driveway.Andy? Why are you sitting there with that faraway look in your eye?”

“What time is it?”

“Um..almost 4:30. Why?”

“We have just enough time. Are you feelin’ well enough to go for a drive with me?” he asked, placing a call to Brody.

“Sure, but where are we going?”

“Hold on…Brody? Hi.”

“Hey, Andy, is everything okay?”

“Yep, and thanks for all your help today.”

“How’s Helen?”

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