Page 33 of Captured By the Billionaire Cowboy
Rowan’s chest tightened. Only his accountants knew the extent of his charitable endeavors. “Different things.” He waved his hand. “Some benefit horses, others kids. A few for international causes, rare diseases–” He stopped. Why had he shared so much?
“Wow.” Both Spencer and Quinn stared. Davey didn’t seem surprised. Neither did Ciara.
“How many are there?” Quinn asked.
“Oh, I don’t know. Somewhere around a dozen, I think.” Actually, there were at least two dozen, and double that when he counted partnerships. At his brothers’ sharpened scrutiny, he fought to maintain his neutral expression. “Anyways, my accountants know the rules to conduct the raffle, and the donation money can go to the horse rescue.”
Even though Ciara’s tone remained cautious, growing excitement edged her features. “But what if it isn’t enough? What if we raise money, but still can’t get the loan?”
“Then we donate the money to a different horse charity.” He hadthree. “No matter what, it will be used as it was intended.”
Ciara’s grin widened until it was pure sunshine. “That might actually work.” She grabbed Davey’s hand, spreading her contagious smile. “Thank you.”
Davey looked down shyly. “No problem.”
Even as Rowan succumbed to the good humor, with a broad smile that was as wonderful as it was unfamiliar, he couldn’t stop the excitement. Somewhere along the way, her dream had become his dream, too.
He would make it come true.
“Tell me the truth. Did you hide my phone?”
The suspect remained stoic, betraying no indication of guilt.
“Are you covering for someone?” Despite the harsh words, her tone was light, soft. “Be honest.”
“You shouldn’t be questioning him without a lawyer.” Rowan suddenly appeared behind her, his entrance stealthy and graceful, like a prowling predator. “He has a right to legal counsel.”
“Does he?” She eyed King with feigned suspicion. “I think he’s taking the fall for the real perpetrator. Haveyouseen my phone?”
Amusement glittered as he held up both hands. “I’m innocent.”
“Are you so sure about that?”
“Perhaps not.” He winked, then chuckled softly. A moment later, so did she. How swiftly they had fallen back into their old camaraderie, almost as if no time had passed since they were two friends enjoying the endless summers of youth. His smile was just as wide as hers. “You seem to be in a good mood, especially for someone whose phone is missing.” He straightened, stretching the clothing taut against sculpted muscles.
Now shewasin an even better mood. “Not only has Davey’s idea given us a great way to raise funds, but we might have found the perfect person with hospitality experience. I actually have a chance to make this happen.”And, also, I am really enjoying the view. Can you stretch like that again? Yes, perfect.She cleared her throat. “After I find my phone, I’m meeting Teara to discuss a position at the retreat.”
“That’s great.” Rowan nodded. “Want me to join?”
She bit back a wave of satisfaction. She’d wanted to ask him, but the risk of getting more attached stopped her. Of course, it would be rude to say no. “Sure.” She resumed her search for her missing device. “I know my phone is here somewhere. I just can’t remember where I put it.”
“That’s easy enough to solve.” He grabbed his own phone and started dialing.
“That’s a good ide– Actually that’s not a good idea. A terrible idea really. Stop!”This was bad. Really, really bad.
“What?” His finger hovered above the last number. “Why?”
“I can find it on my own. If you wait by the car, I’ll meet you in a minute.” Did she sound frantic? It didn’t matter. If he didn’t leave soon…
Intelligent eyes narrowed. “This will be much quicker.” He pushed the last button.
Music blasted to life. She closed her eyes as the song “I’m Too Sexy” filled the stable. In loud detail it described everything Rowan was too sexy for: his shirt, his car, his hat. Her party.
Rowan gaped at her. The workers on the other side of the stable gaped at her. Even the horses gaped at her. She closed her eyes. Perhaps she could jump on a horse and gallop to a distant galaxy.
Rowan reached between two piles of tack equipment and pulled out a singing, vibrating device. The song thundered louder as the lyrics repeated themselves. “I found your phone,” he choked out. She grabbed the phone, shut it off. But it was too late.
He was grinning like a horse in an apple orchard.
