Page 24 of The Cattleman's Unforgettable Love

As she spoke, the horse stretched its neck so that it could reach her. Amelia froze, wondering if it planned to bite her, but then unexpected tears pricked behind her eyes when it brushed its lips over her forehead – as if it were kissing her.

“Oh my God!” she breathed.

Ford tensed beside her. “It’s okay. He’s not going to hurt you – he’s only …”

She smiled at him. “I know! He just kissed my forehead, didn’t he?”

“He did.” Ford nodded happily before giving the horse a sideways glance. “He’s more forward than I dare to be.”

“Maybe he’s encouraging you – telling you that it’s okay to be forward if you want to.”

Ford might be a big, tough guy, he might have the dark and broody thing down to an art form, but Amelia had the impression that he might need more encouragement than she would have imagined. And if the horse wanted to help out with that, it was fine by her.

The look in Ford’s eyes as he met her gaze made her wonder if she wasn’t underestimating him. He’d been so sweet and considerate with her, but if she wasn’t mistaken, there was a lot more to him smoldering just below the surface.

Chapter Six

When they came back outside from the relative gloom of the stalls into the bright morning sun, Ford gave Boone a dark look when he saw that he was still standing there. And now he didn't just have Clint and Hank with him – a few more of the hands were also standing around. Obviously, they were waiting to get a glimpse of Amelia.

He moved closer to her as they walked toward the group and asked in a low voice, “Are you okay with this? Do you want to meet the rest of them, or would you rather just climb in the truck? I can scatter them without saying a word if you want.”

Her eyes sparkled as she smiled up at him. “That’s okay. It’s probably better if we get the introductions over with now. I’ll be less of a curiosity after that. Although part of me is tempted to see you scatter them without saying a w word.”

He pursed his lips, wondering if saying that had made him sound like an asshole.

She touched his arm and added, “I mean that in a good way. I already told you that you seem kind of commanding sometimes.”

The way she said it, it sounded as though she saw that as a good thing, so he smiled. “If you’re sure, then I’ll introduce you.”

“I am.”

As they approached the group of men, Boone gave him an apologetic look. Ford couldn’t blame the guy – he ran the bunkhouse and mostly kept the hands in line – but Ford knew damn well that the guys would be curious to meet Amelia. He shot Boone a reassuring smile before saying, “Morning, gentlemen. And I’m using that word deliberately – because even though it might not come naturally to you, that’s the way you’re going to behave around Amelia here. Isn’t it?”

They all grinned and nodded. The couple who knew his words were mostly aimed at them both met his gaze as they nodded their agreement.

“Okay, then. It’s my pleasure to introduce you all to Amelia – Amelia Danforth. I’m sure you already got the idea that she’s staying here on the ranch. She’s working with Cash.” He turned to Amelia. “You already met Boone, Clint, and Hank. They’re the ones you’ll probably see the most of, especially if you need anything. But any of these guys,” he jerked his chin toward the rest of them, “will be able to help you out if there’s anything you need.”

“Thanks. It’s nice to meet you all.” Amelia smiled around at them, and they all murmured words of welcome.

“Anything you need,” Boone told her, “you just let me know. If Ford’s not around, I can help – or find him for you.”

“Thanks,” said Amelia.

Ford nodded at him. “We’re going to get out of here. You good?”

“It’s all good,” said Boone. “Don’t give this place another thought. Enjoy your day off.”

Sawyer, one of the hands, let out a low whistle. “You’re taking the day off, boss?”

“I am.” Ford hoped he wouldn’t make a big deal out of it – that he wouldn’t tell Amelia what a rare occurrence it was.

Boone didn’t give him a chance. “That’s right,” he told Sawyer. “But you’re not. If I remember right, you should be on your way to the back forty right about now.”

Sawyer grinned. He was a good-natured guy; Ford liked him. He was a hard worker, too. “I’m just on my way.” He tipped his hat at Amelia. “Couldn’t resist the opportunity to meet you first, Miss Amelia. Hope you have a great day. And even though these guys are the main men, you need anything, you can call on any one of us.”

“Thanks,” said Amelia. “I appreciate that.”

Ford guided her toward his truck, and Boone shooed the guys back to the bunkhouse. Once he had Amelia settled in the passenger seat, Ford ran around to jump in. As he pulled away, she turned to smile at him.