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The question was so blunt I decided to be just as blunt in reply.“I love Colt.I love how much he wants to protect his family and how hard he works.I love his dogged work ethic even though I want him to stop before he kills himself with stress.I love that he walks the fields in the mornings because this ranch is in his blood and he feels closest to it when he’s out there.”I pointed out the window.“I love that he forgave me for everything, that he cares about what I need, and that when we’re together I can’t imagine ever being as happy as when I’mwithhim.”

That stunned her into silence.I don’t think she was prepared to hear just how well I knewherson.

Not that it bought me a ton of goodwill.In her next breath she reminded me who had the upper hand.“Well then this will be easy.If you truly love my son the way you say you do, then you’llleave.”

“No.”

“Yes.”She pushed the folder into my hands.“This will stay between us.I may be protective of my children but I’m not cruel.If you love my son the way you say you do, then you’ll leave.I don’t care what story you concoct, but you’ll leave.You won’t set foot back on the ranch or speak to Christina or Colt until after theelection.”

November.

It wasn’t that long off.Barely six weeks.But it wastoolong.

“If,” she continued, “what you have is real, it can wait.You can prove to me this story I’ve concocted is, in fact, a story.Once Christina is elected with no interference from the McKinley’s you can reconnectwithColt.”

“Or you could just trust me.Do you really think Colt would have such bad judgment as to let a woman into his life who would hurt hissister?”

She laughed without humor.“I’ve never liked my son’s mistresses.He did have one that nearly brought this ranch down.So yes, I believe the right sex can blind a man.”Then, I assume because she could, she twisted the knife.“Who do you think he sees on those business trips he keepstaking?”