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His pulse ticked up.
She had just described what had happened when he’d been with her at The Tavern. An instant connection that made no sense. And it was growing stronger with every minute. Though he sensed trouble brewing, and knew there was more to her story than she was telling, he couldn’t walk away.
“Bailey, I know what you mean,” he replied, then softening his voice, he added, “It happens with people too.”
CHAPTER SEVEN
Bailey stared back at him for a moment, then muttered, “I, uh, suppose it does,” then quickly finishing her milkshake, she carried the empty cup to a nearby garbage bin. “Ready when you are,” she exclaimed, returning to the table and picking up her leather shoulder bag.
“My truck’s near my motorhome, or would you prefer to take your car?”
“Your truck, in case we end up on a dirt road,” she replied, then pausing, she added, “Thanks for doing this.”
“You’re welcome. Let’s hope the horse turns out to be the one,” he said as they walked the short distance to the parking area.
“After so many disappointments I’m not holding my breath.”
“Maybe you’re expectin’ too much.”
“Maybe, but I know exactly what I want, and I won’t settle for less. Call me stubborn, but I’m prepared to wait.”
“It might take a long time if you want perfection,” he remarked as they reached his truck and he unlocked the doors with his key fob.
“Well, there’s that old saying, good things come to those who wait,” she retorted, then darting to the passenger side she quickly climbed in.
Her message had been clear.
I don’t want you to open the door for me.
Shaking his head, he settled in behind the wheel and looked across at her.
“What?” she asked, meeting his gaze.
“I guess I’m old-fashioned. I like to open doors.”
“That’s nice, I’ll remember that next time,” she replied as she fastened her seat belt. “Why do you haul this truck when you have a motorhome?”
“Correction, ausedmotorhome,” he said, driving forward. “This truck’s my insurance policy. If I break down on the interstate I can take off and get help, and it’s convenient. Wherever I am, I can drive around without the hassle of tryin’ to park that big thing. I use this truck everywhere I go. I wouldn’t be without it.”
“That makes sense. I’m surprised more people don’t have one.”
“They’re startin’ to.”
“Rick, you said you know the owner of Lucky Charm Stables.”
“I sure do.”
“Then I take it they’re pretty legit.”
“About as legit as they come. Why?” he asked as he turned into the main road. “Have you had issues with other places?”
“No, but I wasn’t born yesterday and I’ve been around horses for years. I know how sale barns operate. Some of them anyway.”
“You don’t have to worry about Ben. He’s as solid as they come and he’ll be straight with you.”
She didn’t respond, but frowned and seemed deep in thought. Not wanting to press for conversation he turned on the radio. It was tuned into a local country station, and as the familiar songs played he heard her quietly singing along. Her voice was soft and pretty, and he sensed her guard was beginning to drop. He hoped so. She had an edge, almost a simmering anger. He wanted to help if he could, but that would be impossible until she trusted him enough to tell him the whole story. And he sensed he shouldn’t ask…not yet. The drive continued without further conversation until he rolled into the gravel road that would take them to the ranch.
“Is it very far?” she asked, staring out her window.
