Page 12 of The Cowboy's Promise

“Heavens. How can you afford it? If you need help just let us know.”

“Thanks, mom. I’ll figure it out. You know me. I always find a way. But I’d love you to come and see him once he’s settled. He’s a bit wired at the moment.”

“Of course we will. What a weekend you’re having.”

“I know! And I may have some more news soon. But I don’t want to jinx anything so it will have to wait.”

“How long?”

“Um, hopefully only until tomorrow.”

“I think I can manage that, and congratulations again. We’re so proud of you. All that hard work and dedication is starting to pay off.”

“Yes, mom, I really think it is. Now I must take a shower.”

“I’m sure. Speak to you later, love.”

“Bye mom. I love you.”

Ending the call, Heather let out a long, happy sigh.

She was sure Blake hadn’t invited her for dinner just to show her how well he could cook. She hoped and prayed she was right.

CHAPTER EIGHT

As Blake pulled the roasted chicken and vegetables out of the oven he broke into a broad smile. He’d bought the ingredients on an impulse a couple of days before. He was telling himself there was no such thing as a coincidence when Butch, his black German Shepherd, suddenly barked. A moment later the dog ran to the door, and as Blake opened it and followed him outside he saw Heather’s truck rolling to a stop.

“I know, I know, I love you too,” she said as the dog leapt all over her the moment she climbed out.

“Come in,” Blake called, waving her over. “I hope you like roast chicken and vegetables.”

“I absolutely love it, and I’m impressed.”

“Why? It’s not difficult.”

“I’m hopeless in the kitchen,” she admitted as they headed inside.“Isn’t doing a roast a lot of work?”

“Not really, but I generally only make it when I’m havin’ company.”

“Wow, it smells delicious,” she exclaimed as they entered. “Clearly Butch thinks so too.”

The big dog had trotted over to the stove and was panting up at the roasting dish.

“He’d eat the whole thing if he could,” Blake said, moving to the counter to open a bottle of Chardonnay.

“Wine? I’ve only ever seen you with a beer bottle in your hand.”

“Hey, I’m not a total caveman.”

“Too bad,” she quipped.

It was a veiled invitation.

He didn’t need a second one.

Quickly closing the space between them he grabbed her around the waist and jerked her against his body.

“Too bad?” he repeated. “Do you want me to drag you into my bedroom by the hair?”

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