Page 11 of The Rancher

“No. I simply realize I can wash my hands after we’re done and be rid of you.”

Lyris watched Marissa and Ray for a bit until Scott twirled her away.

“You’re more than a little fascinated with your employer.” Scott tried to keep her close.

She was having none of it and pushed her hands against his chest. “Back off, Scott. I’m not playing a game with you and Marissa. Whatever plans you have for Ray can wait until after the ball.” Lyris pulled completely out of his arms. “I’m done with you. Find someone else to amuse yourself with.” She turned and walked over to the bar.

After getting a glass of wine, she gazed over the crowd. She saw Ray had extricated himself from Marissa and was headed her way.

“I hoped you would find your way out of Scott’s embrace.”

“First, I didn’t let him embrace me, which he didn’t like at all. Second, I couldn’t do it fast enough. You abandoned me.” She lowered her gaze and batted her lashes. Then she threw her head back and laughed. “They are quite the pair, aren’t they?” She took a taste of her wine, which was a chardonnay. The tart flavor wasn’t really to her liking. She enjoyed sweeter wines.

Ray ordered a bourbon on the rocks and sipped his drink. “If I wasn’t driving, I could definitely tie one on. They make me crazy. I wish Marissa would just forget she’d ever known me. I’m doing my best to forget I ever was engaged to that woman.”

Lyris laid a hand on his arm. “I’m sorry. I know it can’t be easy having this gala every year and knowing you would probably run into her.”

He shrugged. “It is what it is. She is a good donor to the gala, and I take that into consideration. I can put up with her for one night.”

She gave his arm a little squeeze. “You’re a good man, Ray Kincaid.”

Ray looked at her with his deep blue eyes. “Thanks. It’s nice to hear.”

“Would you like to sit?”

“I have to say a few words first. If you’ll wait, I’ll be right back.”

“Of course.”

He placed his drink on the bar and walked up to where the small band played.

“Ladies and gentlemen. Could I have your attention, please?” Ray said into the microphone.

The sounds of people talking quieted.

“I want to thank you all for coming. As you know, this gala and the funds it raises are near and dear to my heart. My late wife’s sister suffered from juvenile diabetes ,which took her life entirely too young. My late wife and I started this event as a way to give Julie’s short life meaning. Hopefully more research can be done with the funds we raise tonight and fewer children will die. Now, please everyone have a good time and good evening to you.”

When he got back to her, Lyris was standing next to the bar.

Lyris laid a hand on his arm. “This is a very good thing you’re doing.”

The tips of his ears turned pink. “Thank you. I wish Francie had lived to see all the good that has been done.”

She squeezed his arm. “I’m sure she does.” She smiled. “Would you like to dance?”

“I have a better idea. Come with me.” Ray held out his right hand. “I know a place we can go and get some real food.”

Lyris grinned. She placed her wineglass on the bar next to his bourbon and took his hand with her left. “I’m game if you are.”

CHAPTER 4

They collected the car from the valet, who Ray tipped very well, and he took off west toward Lakewood.

“So where are we headed?” She was nervous that they appeared to be going on a date. She hadn’t been on one in at least three years. Not since before she’d started seeing Kevin. She hoped never to see him again, the lying dirtbag.

“This is a little hole-in-the-wall burger joint. They have the best food. I thought we’d get a couple of burgers and maybe some shakes, then after we eat, I’ll take you to one of my favorite spots to see the city.”

She grinned. “Sounds good. I could definitely eat a burger. Lunch was a long time ago.”