Page 49 of The Texan's Secrets

“None of your business,” Chase said overtop of her.

Paris’s expression faltered for a split second at what could have been interpreted as Chase’s lack of enthusiasm.

Emilia caught it and, apparently, so did Sammy. He immediately turned to Emilia. “Care to take a spin around the dance floor?” The invitation was clearly intended to end the embarrassing moment and give the couple some space.

“Love to,” Emilia said and took Sammy’s arm.

The tune was quick and catchy, and Sammy was surprisingly graceful for his size.

“Have you been away?” Emilia asked, picking up from Chase’s greeting.

“I’m a rodeo clown.”

She drew back from the light hold of his arms. “Seriously?”

“Bullfighter mostly. But, yes, I dress up in bright colors and run around the rodeo ring entertaining the audience.”

“That’s fascinating,” she said. She’d seen a few live rodeos since moving to Texas. She knew what bullfighters did, and she was in awe of their bravery.

“What about you?” he asked.

“Nothing near so exciting. I write computer code.”

He pulled a face. “That does sound dreary.” The man had good comedic timing.

“Doesn’t it?”

“Lots of money in that?” he asked matter-of-factly.

“Enough. What about bullfighting?”

“Depends on the circuit. I do okay. Plus, my family owns land, so I always have a free place to stay when I’m in town.”

He gave her a spin, and she laughed, relaxed by the two drinks and enjoying his easy company.

“I wouldn’t take on Sammy McMillian if I was you,” Misha told Nico in a dire tone. “He stares down bulls for a living.”

Nico’s jaw was clenched, his feet planted apart as he watched Emilia laughing and dancing with the rancher. “What’s she doing dancing with him?”

“Maybe he asked her.”

“I’d ask her. I could have asked her.”

Emilia hadn’t said anything about wanting to dance. She’d said she wanted to talk to Paris. So, where was Paris?

“So, why are you standing on the sidelines?” Misha asked.

Before Nico could answer, a willowy forty-something woman stopped and touched Misha lightly on the arm. “Wonderful party, Ms. Law. Congratulations. Such a successful, successful launch.”

“Please, call me Misha. And thank you so much,” Misha responded.

“I’m Cecily Trunk, over from Plano. My husband and I invested this morning. Not a huge amount. But we have a midsize retirement portfolio, and you’ve already strengthened it for us.”

“I’m so glad to hear that,” Misha said. “I hope you enjoy the party.”

“We will. Weare. I won’t take up too much of your time. I know it’s a busy night for you.” The woman left with a wave and a happy smile.

“That has to feel good,” Nico said.

---