Page 7 of The Cowboy's Wild Side

“I’m not sure, but what about Astro?”

“Astro? I like it. What made you think of that?”

“If you look at the night sky through a powerful telescope, the planets are like big white blobs against a black canvas. It’s hard to explain, but that’s what he reminded me of when I saw him.”

“No kiddin’. Damn, girl, you’re good at this,” he declared, then opened the gate and stepped into the paddock. “Do you want to hear your new names?” he called, walking forward as all four horses turned and looked at him. “You’re Sammy,” he said softly, nearing one of the chestnuts and lifting a handful of small carrots from his back pocket. He offered the treat, then smiled as it was greedily accepted. “You’re Sally,” he continued, stepping over to the mare and giving another to her, “and you, big boy, I’m happy to call you Astro.” But the paint moved away, and to Cade’s surprise, walked across to Karenstanding at the fence.

“What should I do?” she asked as Cade handed Moon a carrot. “I’ve only been around the horses at the track. I’ve never encountered a rescue.”

“He’s the nervous one of the bunch. Just talk to him, but don’t make any sudden movements.”

“Okay.”

Cade’s heart had been broken only once. Badly. He’d avoided becoming involved ever since. But as he stood and watched Karen speak softly to Astro, a warm shiver rippled through his body.

CHAPTER SIX

Much to Karen’s delight and surprise, the sexy cowboy guided her through his barn then across to the paddocks and introduced her to all his horses. When they’d stop to talk, his clear blue eyes seemed to look right through her and she’d feel the flutter of butterflies in her stomach. She never wanted the tour to end, but all too soon they were walking back to her car.

“Thank you, Cade, I’ve had the best time. I just love it out here. Everything’s so peaceful, and these two,” she exclaimed, bending down to pet Jack and Diane, “where do I begin? They’re such a happy pair.”

“They should be. Their only problem is trying to convince me they’ll die if they don’t get a milkbone the minute we go inside.”

“I’m sure. And I bet they manage it every time.”

“Guilty,” he replied with a grin.

“So, uh, what time do you want me here for the lesson tomorrow?”

“How does two o’clock sound?”

“Perfect.”

“Do you have any western boots?”

“Uh, no. Actually, I’m not sure what to wear.”

“There’s a store in town, Luke’s Western Garb. Tell them you’ll be takin’ lessons with me and they’ll see you right.”

“Brilliant. Thanks, Cade. I’m so looking forward to this. I forgot to ask, how much do you charge? I’d like to pay youin cash, if that’s okay.”

“Dammit!” he exclaimed, abruptly raising his eyes.

Startled and following his gaze, she saw Astro and Moon trotting out of their paddock.

“Cade! How did that happen?” she asked urgently. “What can I do?”

“Stay here!”

As he marched away, she stared at the horses and decided she could help. Ignoring his instructions she hastily grabbed a handful of peppermints from her bag in the car, then began running to head them off. But as she passed the house and entered an unfenced field, the ground became uneven and muddy.

A moment later she spotted Cade guiding Moon back into the paddock and closing the gate, but Astro was still trotting around, tossing his head and looking very pleased with himself. As Cade started after him, the gelding changed direction and headed directly towards her. With her pulse ticking up, she quickened her step, only to trip and fall headfirst into the mud.

* * *

Just a few minutes earlier Cade had wanted to call out and tell Karen to return to the car, but shouting could unsettle Astro, or even spook him and cause him to take off. Irritated, he’d kept his eyes on the loose horse, but a sudden movement off to the side caught his attention. Shifting his gaze, he stared in disbelief. Karen was struggling to her feet covered in mud, then slipped and fell a second time. He was trying to decide if he should continue after Astro or hurry across to help her when the the big paint changed course, marched directly over to her and stood stock still. By the time Cade reached themKaren was leaning against the horse to steady herself as she straightened up.

“Are you okay?” he asked as he neared.

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