Page 8 of The Cowboy's Justice

“It’s about Portia’s license.”

“What about it?”

“Would you consider returning it?”

“And why would I do that?”

“So she can drive here every day. I imagine it would be an inconvenience for Devlin to have to pick her up and take her home, and I’m going back to Dallas.”

“I’m not sure about this,” the sheriff muttered. “I’ll speak to Devlin and see what he says, but what’s to stop her takin’ off and goin’ wherever she pleases? I’ve done my homework. This isn’t the first time she’s had problems behind the wheel.”

“I understand your concern. Perhaps we could post some kind of surety. A dollar amount that could be—”

“I have to stop you right there. What Devlin said earlier is true. If that girl decided to take her car some place, the thought of losin’ a bond wouldn’t give her a moment’s pause.”

“Then perhaps the threat of a night in a jail cell would do the trick. I know she’s horrified at the thought.”

“Maybe,” the sheriff murmured thoughtfully.

“Please consider it, Sheriff. I don’t see any other way for her to get here and return home every day. Here’s my card,” William continued, lifting out his wallet. “Just let me know. I can bring her in the morning, but then I have to return to my office in Dallas.”

* * *

As the sheriff watched the sleek, black sports car move slowly down the driveway, Devlin walked up and stood next to him.

“What was that about?”

“He wants me to give Portia her license back so she can get here and home every day. He’s gotta point. In fact I should’ve thought of that myself.”

“But you’re worried.”

“Hell, yeah, I’m worried. That girl’s a loose cannon. I don’t trust her. He suggested I threaten her with jail if she’s caught drivin’, but that’s no guarantee.”

“Nope, it isn’t.”

“I can’t get that video outta my mind. The way she tried to race past you was down right crazy, and you saw how she started honkin’ at people and tryin’ to push her way through that dang traffic.”

“You’re right. It was bad.”

“My priority is the safety of the people here in Smoky Hill. If I give in and she ends up hurtin’ someone on the road, I swear I’ll never forgive myself. I guess she’ll have to hire a limo, but that doesn’t sit well with me either. Are you willin’ to pick her up and take her home every day?”

“Nope, but I do have another idea. She stays here.”

CHAPTER SIX

Portia was floating in her swimming pool when she caught sight of William striding through the sliding glass doors. He was carrying a tray holding two cocktails and a plate of snacks, but he looked grim.

“Did you dent your car?” she asked, moving slowly to the edge.

“No, why do you ask?”

“The look on your face. What happened?”

“Take your drink and I’ll tell you.”

“No thanks, I’m craving coffee.”

“Are you sure? It’s a lime Margarita, your favorite.”

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