Page 75 of Captured By the Billionaire Cowboy
Conducting a contest for the name had been an inspired idea, generating a prize purse of awareness. Entrants submitted a variety of suggestions, from humorous offerings like Hold Your Horses Ranch to motivational ones like Destiny’s Hope Horse Rescue, Ciara’s personal favorite. They would announce the winners of both the name contest and the raffle during the fair.
As the days melted away, everything remained the same between her and Rowan. They didn’t mention the past or the future, yet soon both would need to be addressed. For now, they just enjoyed each other’s company, with honest work, sunset horse rides and stolen moments in their enchanted garden.
Finally, only a single day remained before the grand opening. The first retreat guests were booked, with two dozen families, adults and children set to arrive. Of course, far more would attend the fair, likely swelling the visitors into the hundreds and perhaps even thousands. The preparations for food and lodgings had been made, and the employees were trained and ready. They were bringing in temporary workers and all available volunteers.
Everything was proceeding perfectly. The new employees showed dedication and enthusiasm, their love for horses apparent. Of the volunteers, Louise was by far the most productive, and had already put in more hours than anyone. She’d apologized directly to Davey, who had graciously accepted. The two had even become friends.
Now Ciara was evaluating the horses to make the final decisions on who would enjoy the festival and who would remain in the serenity of the stables. Another horse had been adopted, and only a few remained from the original group. The newer horses showed marked improvement even in the short amount of time, and most were already available for adoption.
“How are they doing?”
Ciara smiled, as she always did at the sound of that voice. “Great. Most of them can join today’s activities. The second group wasn’t nearly as bad as we originally thought.”
“Neither were the owners,” Rowan’s tan boots boomed on the floor, as he strode to tower above her, bringing the scent of spice and pure male. The handsome man wore a white cowboy shirt and dark jeans, his jaw freshly shaven, his hair neatly combed back.
She licked dry lips. “Not at all. Of course, I can’t condone what they did, but it was clearly a mistake rather than ill intent. Mr. Owens already called twice to check on them.”
“I heard him ring the other day. You were on the phone for a while.” He leaned against the rail, pulling the shirt flush against his muscles. “I hope they were happy with the handyman we sent over.”
Was it getting hot in here?“He couldn’t stop thanking me, but I was actually talking to Mrs. Owens for most of it.” She smiled at the memory of the sweet, elderly woman. “When she mentioned the past, I just went along. She laughed a lot, and afterwards Mr. Owens said it was the happiest he’d seen her in years.” The sentiment had been so wonderful, she’d called to speak to Mrs. Owens the next day. And the day after that. And every day since.
“Have I told you how amazing you are? You’ve done so much for so many people. Of course, you’ve helped these animals themost of all.” Rowan nodded to a preening mare, showing off her newly shiny coat. “These beauties might find homes tomorrow.”
Ciara flushed with pleasure. Nothing was more satisfying than a horse finding a good home, finally experiencing the life it deserved. It was bittersweet, though, for she got attached to each and every animal she rescued. With their unique personalities, she loved them all.
Rowan gave the mare one last pat and ambled down the row of horses. She fell into step beside him, smiling, yet her grin faltered when they reached Jasmine. The palomino was standing quietly in the corner, her tail twitching as she gazed into empty space. She jumped as they approached.
Ciara plucked a couple of apple slices from her pocket and offered them to the ailing horse. Jasmine snorted, turning away. “This girl isn’t nearly well enough to attend the festival.”
Rowan’s frown deepened. “Refusing apples? I thought she was doing better.”
“She was.” Ciara grimaced as she slid the fruit back in her pocket. “She gets a little better, then a lot worse, and back and forth. Something isn’t right, but we don’t know if it’s emotional or physical.” She slowly reached out once more. For a second the horse stood her ground, but then she edged back, her eyes flaring in alarm.
Ciara dropped her hand. “The vet is going to check her again after the festival.”
“I’m sure you’ll figure it out.” He gave her a little squeeze, and they continued walking until they reached the end of the stables. An image flashed, of a lanky kid saving her from a precipitous fall off a bale of hay. It was right here that they met.
So much had changed since that fateful day. The powerful man before her bore little resemblance to the boy he once was, his power and strength all man. Even now, he affected her, casting pure desire. Should she confess everything, exposethe raw emotions tumbling within her? Yet doubts arose, uncertainties urging hesitation. Rowan wasn’t just any man. He was a man who controlled his world, who led others. He concealed his emotions, while she wore hers for all to see. Once, he shattered her heart. Would he do it again?
Was it worth risking everything for another chance?
Rowan leaned in closer, recapturing her attention. “You look like you’re calculating the odds of every horse in the Kentucky Derby.”
She closed her eyes, opened them. “You need to stop doing that.”
“Stop doing what?”
Reading her mind.
Driving her crazy.
Making her believe in what-ifs.
“You know what.”
He stepped closer. “You’re overthinking this.”
“Am I?” She backed up, not because she was scared, but because she couldn’t focus while he hovered so near. “I just don’t know what to do,” she whispered.
