Page 26 of Captured by the Billionaire Cowboy (The Secret Billionaires #7)
Ciara started at the man’s sudden approach, as he came scandalously close and yet still too far.
She closed her eyes for a second’s span before turning, her heart speeding as it always did in the presence of the tall, powerful cowboy dressed in blue jeans and a white shirt.
He edged closer, towering over her, his woodsy scent surrounding her.
She tried to stay unaffected, yet it was hopeless.
Instead, she edged closer, as satisfaction lit his eyes.
This had been Rowan’s strategy of late, and it was working beautifully – for him.
Since she’d refused to talk about what happened – what was happening – between them, he refused to let her forget about it – or him.
He would hover a little too close, or touch her arm, her back or some other innocent location.
It was never overly intimate or improper, but every measure of closeness affected her.
Of course, she was never one to allow another horse to win the race. Thus, she found herself wandering too close, not-so-accidentally leaning against him, touching those solid muscles. And when he moved even nearer, her feminine wiles rejoiced.
She couldn’t deny their connection, and she didn’t want to.
But she needed time to consider what it meant, to untangle the horse rescue and the part he played in it.
She didn’t want a relationship miles apart; she would have to change her entire life for this to work.
Most of all, she had to discover what he truly desired to ensure the past would not repeat.
Did Rowan want more? Could he even give more?
Would he shatter her heart again?
She swept a sideways glance at him. He was studying Jasmine, his lips etched in a severe frown. He might not admit it, but he was as enamored of the animal as she. No doubt he could sense the mare’s discomfort.
He finally noticed her regard. “I heard Dr. Saunders stopped by this morning. What did he say?”
Ciara approached the horse she loved and the man she…
She cleared her throat. “Still colic, but he’s no longer certain of the type.
Many conditions have similar symptoms, ranging from minor ailments to…
” She stopped, swallowed the lump thickening her throat.
“More serious illnesses. If she doesn’t get better soon, he’ll run more tests. ”
Rowan leaned against the fence. “Dr. Saunders has extensive experience with these sorts of diagnoses. I’m sure he’ll figure it out.”
“Of course,” she said quickly. That was probably true. Only what would he find and how serious would it be? Would it be treatable?
“And how is Snowflake? Has she recovered from her adventure?”
Ciara brightened. “She’s fine. As sweet and calm as ever.”
He nodded in clear satisfaction. Even if he didn’t admit it, he’d obviously come to care for her equine companion. “And you?” He gestured to her ankle. “I see your limp finally went away.”
“Feels like new.” She twisted it back and forth, enjoying smooth movements without pain. “It was quite a coincidence the doctor showed up that evening.”
“Extraordinary,” he agreed in a grave voice.
“And you’re sure you had nothing to do with it?”
“As sure as you are.”
She chuckled lightly. They both knew he’d arranged it.
At first, she’d been annoyed by his high-handedness, but later she was glad a professional examined the ankle, just in case.
Frank, Rowan and his brothers all insisted, and it was impossible to say no to five determined, overprotective men.
Fortunately, the doctor agreed with her diagnosis and didn’t recommend further treatment unless it worsened.
Right now, Jasmine was her main concern. She spent as much time as possible with the horse, talking to her, playing soothing music and keeping her calm. Yet no matter what she did, the animal remained agitated, stressed and uncomfortable.
“Ciara, where are you? Rowan, are you around? Where is everyone?” Davey power-walked into the stables, wearing crisp blue jeans and a red t-shirt with the phrase “World’s Best Brother” embroidered in big block letters.
Rowan had nonchalantly handed Davey the shirt last week, and Davey had literally jumped for joy. He’d already worn it three times.
Now he was clearly excited, his eyes sparkling above an extra wide smile. Despite this, he slowed down when he entered the stables. He knew to avoid overstimulating the sensitive animals. “Come to the house.” He waved them forward. “We have amazing news!”
Ciara placed down her gloves and stepped forward, while Rowan traveled by her side. “I could always use amazing news.”
“Then what are you waiting for? Come on!”
Ciara laughed as Davey took each of their hands and dragged them out of the stables. His stride lengthened after they left the animals, and he was practically running by the time they reached the house.
Rowan slowed them down. “Not too fast,” he said gently. “Ciara’s ankle just got better.”
“I’m fine,” she insisted. “I’m excited to hear the good news.”
“Spencer said to wait until we’re all together. So hurry.” Davey held the front door open, gesturing them in. “I can’t wait another minute!”
Ciara blinked in surprise at the room’s inhabitants.
Despite the time, both of Rowan’s brothers and Uncail Frank were seated in the big country kitchen, on wide spindle backed chairs.
Quinn and Spencer’s smiles were nearly as wide as Davey’s, and Frank seemed practically jovial.
Excitement sizzled in the air, tangled with the scent of freshly baked bread and brewed coffee. Something good had happened.
Rowan held out a chair for Ciara. Too excited to sit, she shook her head with a mouthed thank you. She traded her gaze between the smiling men. “What’s the good news?”
Davey looked eagerly to Spencer, who nodded his approval. The youngest brother squealed, before turning to Ciara and clapping. “Your dream is coming true.”
“My dream?”
“That’s right.” Davey winked. “The horse rescue is a go.”