Page 24 of Beneath the Flames
“I’m Rosita, the woman you spoke to on the phone.”
“It is a pleasure to meet you, Rosita,” Rytsar replied in his thick Russian accent. “I appreciate you honoring my request on such short notice.”
Brie noticed the blush coloring her cheeks. She felt no jealousy toward the woman, however. She understood that it was a natural response when in the presence of the Russian.
She grinned. “I’m happy we could help,SeñorDurov. And I have to thank you for the generous donation. It’ll be put to good use here at the ranch.”
“Of course. You are doing good work here.” Rytsar stated, adding, “Such work deserves to be supported.”
Rosita looked down at Hope and asked her, “Do you like horses?”
Rytsar swept Hope up into his arms and told her proudly, “Moye solntseis a great lover of horses.”
Rosita grinned at Hope. “We not only have horses and ponies, but dogs, goats, sheep, chickens, and pigs on this ranch.”
“Piggy!” Hope cried, pointing at Nacho.
“That’s right,” Rosita said, laughing lightly.
Turning to Brie and Sir, she explained, “All of them are rescue animals.”
“Although I can’t say I’m an animal person,” Sir stated, “I appreciate what you are doing here.”
Rosita smiled as she rubbed the top of Nacho’s head. “Every creature deserves to be loved.”
Hearing her response, Brie instantly thought of Master Anderson. It was definitely something he might say. She was certain the cowboy would feel right at home on this ranch.
“Are the accommodations ready?” Rytsar asked Rosita.
“They certainly are, Mr. Durov. Let me take you there.”
They followed her to a lone cabin that was a distance away from the other buildings. Opening the door, she gestured to them to head inside. “I’m happy to say we were able to procure everything you asked for, as well as some quality vodka and pickles for your stay.”
Brie scanned the cabin, charmed by its rustic style. It had plenty of modern luxuries, including a full kitchen and a fancy bathroom with a large shower, but the cabin’s décor had a definite western flair.
Brie was quick to notice that the cabin had two bedrooms. Taking a quick peek in one, she was enchanted by the large bed with its beautiful ornamental iron frame, accented by a fluffy, white bedspread that reminded her of a cloud. It was inviting and promised all kinds of fun.
Brie glanced at Rytsar, who winked back at her.
“The kitchen is fully stocked,” Rosita informed them. “However, you are welcome to join us for a community supper in the courtyard, if you like.”
“Although I enjoy eating outside…” Rytsar answered, looking hungrily at Brie. He quickly added “…we’ll be eating in tonight.”
Brie felt heat rise to her cheeks under his intense gaze. She could already imagine the three of themenjoying the large bed.
“Very well,” Rosita replied pleasantly. “I’ll go and get the horses ready. If you need anything, please ring the house, and my staff will be happy to assist you.”
After she left the cabin, Rytsar nodded to the bedroom and told Brie to open the chest of drawers she found in there. Brie grinned as she went to do his bidding, wondering what she would find.
Brie opened several drawers before she found it and let out a surprised laugh.
“Not what you were expecting, was it?” Rytsar asked in amusement, leaning against the door frame.
“Not at all!” She grinned, looking down at the three sets of clothes.
“If you go to the closet, you’ll find more.”
Brie walked over and opened the closet door. To her delight, she found boots for each of them, as well as stylish cowboy hats.
