Page 24 of One Scorching Summer

He laughed and raised his glass to her. “They’ll never know. Dad can be a real son of a bitch when someone opposes him or his plans.”

“I remember how he treated you when you decided to pursue being a doctor instead of joining Ogden-Keller. You shattered his dream of a fourth generation at the helm. Total maverick move. I was so proud of you. Look at you now, Clem, how many people you help. You inspire me.”

“I’m proud ofyou, Jorjie,” he said, using his nickname for her. “You’re going to be the fourth generation leading the company. You’ve told me that’s what you want. You’re well on your way and will wear him down by continuing to prove yourself. Dad fights it. Tonight was another example of that. I told him that what he should be doing is embracing your drive, taking you under his wing.”

“How did he respond?”

“He told me to mind my own business. I heard you’re negotiating with the Carpenter Ranch. How’s that going?

“What else did Dad say?”

Clem seemed to weigh his next words. “He said that negotiating with Rake Carpenter will teach you what it means to fail. To hate.”

“Hate? He said that?”

“Yes.”

She savored the sumptuously balanced wine and let the ‘fail’ comment slide; it was petty. She had failed at numerous things and considered them learning experiences. “Damn. Dad’s bitter. Is it because Silas Ogden didn’t purchase all of the mineralestates? Or is it because the Carpenters recovered poverty do more than thrive?”

Clem sat forward, resting his elbows on his knees and holding the glass between his hands. “I think it’s both. I believe Dad wants more power. More wealth and influence. Where does it end? Dad told me said that you want a truce. He’s outraged.”

“I want a truce, too. A permanent one. Rake Carpenter has a made it a provision of the lease. It’s time to let bygones be bygones.” She leaned toward her brother. “I refuse to carry it any further.”

Clem rolled back into his chair, and regarded her for a moment, then smiled. “You know, it’s a genius move.”

“It is.” She returned his smile.

“Is Rake Carpenter the ranch’s representative?”

“Yes.” She stretch a little and readjusted her position in the chair.

“So, you’ve met him?”

“Several times, and his niece, who will share ownership with him and his brother Lee when she comes of age. I’ve also met their attorneys. One of them is Nettie’s boyfriend.”

“Nettie seems to be a good judge of character. What does think of Rake Carpenter?”

“Uh, she likes him.”

“And what is your impression of him?”

A few seconds passed before she answered. “Well, in all honesty, it’s evolved. I find him to be smart. Ethical and hardworking. Strategic.”

“You like him.”

She gave her brother quick dismissive smile. “He’s nice.”

“No …” Clem shook his head. “No. There’s more here. You’re attracted to him. You have trouble keeping still when I mention him or ask questions. When you talk about him.”

Dammit. Her brother was too intuitive. “He’s good looking, but after the deal is negotiated there will be no reason to stay in contact.”Liar.

“Other than you want to. Stop lying to yourself, sis. Does he feel the same about you?”

“He may have expressed that.”

“You’re trying to be coy with your brother. It’s not working. I’ve known you since you were born. After the lease is signed, you might want to explore the pull between the two of you. Something is definitely cooking. The ‘tell’ is your commitment to a truce. The old Jorja Ogden would never have considered that, much less agreed to it. I like this new aspect of you.” He divided the last of the bottle between their glasses and held it up. “Empty. Did you filch another by chance?”

Busted. “Maybe a case.”

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