Page 17 of All for You

“Horses, dear. This is a ranch, after all. Though, I suppose that’s not a skill one typically acquires while refilling coffee cups. Or working in an office in New York City.”

The urge to defend Rachel catapults, but I grit my teeth and clench my hands. She doesn’t need me to fight her battles. Still, I edge closer, offering silent support.

“I haven’t had much opportunity, no.”

“What a shame.” Mother clucks. “I do hope Travis remembers to keep you off the more spirited mounts. We wouldn’t want any unfortunate accidents.”

“I can take care of myself,” Rachel snaps.

Mother’s eyebrows shoot up. “My, my. Quite the little spitfire, aren’t you? I suppose that’s what passes for charm in your lower-class circles.”

“Mother,” I growl. “That’senough.”

She waves a dismissive hand. “Oh, don’t be so sensitive, Travis. I’m sure Rachel’s thick skin is part of her appeal.”

Anger blazes in my chest, hot and sharp. She has always been opinionated, but she’s crossing a line now, and it’s a struggle to keep my composure.

Rachel’s nostrils flare. “With all due respect, Mrs. Kincaid?—”

“Oh, there’s no need for false politeness, dear.” Mother’s smile is cold as ice. “I’m sure you’re not accustomed to... shall we say,refinedcompany.”

I’ve known her for such a short time, yet seeing her attacked like this by my own mother makes my blood boil. This isn’t about our arrangement anymore but basic human decency. I knew Mother would be difficult, but I didn’t expect this level of rudeness.

I step between them. “That’s it. We’re done here.”

Mother’s lips are thin. “Don’t be ridiculous. I’m simply trying to understand what you see in this woman.”

A bitter laugh nearly escapes me. What do I see in Rachel? More than Mother could ever understand. Strength. Kindness. A genuine spirit untainted by the ugliness of high society’s games. And I’ll be damned if I lay that out for her judgment.

“What I see,” I snarl, “is none of your damn business.”

“Language, Travis.” She’s not at all put off by my tone. “Though I suppose your new companion brings out your baser instincts.”

I love my mother, but right now the urge to get Rachel away from her toxicity is strong. To protect her, even if our relationship is just for show.

I grab Rachel’s arm. “We’re leaving. Now.”

“Running away? How unlike you. Then again, I suppose your judgment has been compromised lately.”

Her words strike a nerve, dredging up memories of Amelia and all the ways I’ve been fooled before. But this is different. Rachel isn’t using me. We have an agreement that benefits us both.

“The only thing compromised here,” I growl, “is my patience.”

Rachel’s smile wobbles and slips.

This whole charade is spiraling out of control, and I’m the one to blame.

“We have plenty to do today, Mother. We should get to it.” I wrap an arm protectively around Rachel’s waist, feeling her subtle shiver at the contact.

Maybe it’s the chill from my mother’s icy demeanor or something else entirely. Still, I can’t shake the desire to shield her from the immediate frost.

Mother turns on her heel with the precision of a drill sergeant, her figure retreating into the house with a finality that leaves a vacuum of silence.

“Sorry ’bout that. She can be hard to warm up to.”

“Maybe next time I’ll wear something a bit less citified.”

The truth is, I like those damn boots, how they emphasize her long legs and the effort she put in to fit into my world.

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