Texas Passion @page { margin-bottom: 5.000000pt; margin-top: 5.000000pt; } � Texas Passion � by � Anita Philmar This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales, is entirely coincidental. Texas Passion COPYRIGHT Ó 2011 by Anita Philmar All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission of the author or The Wild Rose Press except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles or reviews. Contact Information: [e-mail] Cover Art by Angela Anderson The Wild Rose Press PO Box 708 Adams Basin, NY 14410-0708 Visit us at www.thewilderroses.com Publishing History First Scarlet Rose Edition, June 2011 Published in the United States of America Dedication Texas is my home. It holds my heart, my passion, and all that I hold dear. No matter where I may roam, I cannot deny my heritage and all that I’ve learned from growing up in such a wonderful place. PRAISE FOR AUTHOR � Anita Philmar � AND HER BOOKS BANISHED WITCH �śBanished Witch was a great read. I loved the characters and felt for them through the struggles that they were trying to overcome.” ~Tigger9, Night Owl Reviews BANISHED SCOUNDREL �śWhen I read the blurb of this book, I knew I had to read it! I am so happy I did. The author is very creative with her characters and plot.” ~Holli, You Gotta Read Reviews �śTwo thumbs up to Ms. Philmar for�Śan intense, adventure-driven story that will�Śgive you goose bumps from the sexual tension emanating between Jack and Kitty, and make you swoon from the sensual vibes of a scoundrel. I�Śrecommend BANISHED SCOUNDREL�Śand can’t wait for the Danella and Omar’s story.” ~Blackraven Reviews BANISHED HERO �śBANISHED HERO�Śis a heartwarming story�ŚWhen I can fall into a story like I did this one and see it through the characters’ eyes, I find myself captivated and unable to relinquish the story until its ending.” ~Sin, TwoLips Reviews Texas Passion West Texas, June 1861 � �śDaggum-it, Tom. If you don’t tell me where Trent McCall is, no one else will.” Catherine gripped her hands at her sides and fought to control her temper. Tom, her best friend since the age of five, would help, even if the code for men in the west was to cover for each other. Bare to the waist, Tom Hayes stood in a patch of light from the barn door, rubbing down his bay. The fresh scent of hay and horseflesh pulled her back to her childhood, the open range, riding bareback for hours, and swimming in the watering hole. Tom shook his head. Golden locks, tied with a thin leather strip, hung down his sweat-slickened back. Beautiful curls any woman would give her eyeteeth to possess. �śHe’s still on the cattle drive and won’t be back from Kansas for a few more days.” Catherine shoved auburn strands that escaped the tight knot at the back of her neck from her face. �śRight. What you really mean is, Mr. McCall has already planned the end-of-the-trail party and doesn’t want me to know.” Dancing until dawn, drinking until they fell into a mindless stupor, and bedding every available woman, the men on the cattle drive loved celebrating their return home. �śSo how many whores are they planning to hire?” Tom lifted the brush and pointed it at her. Thin lines streaming around his blue eyes showed the time he spent working in the sun. �śCatherine Turnberry, you best be watching that mouth of yours. Your pa hears you talking like that, and he’ll tan your hide.” With muscular biceps and broad shoulders, Tom had every girl in the county chasing him during their younger years. Yet, he could have cared less, interested only in riding and hunting at the time. �ŚCourse, she’d missed the chase his wife had waged. The short trip Catherine had taken to visit her aunt in Boston had turned into a four-year stretch. But unlike the socialites of her aunt’s association, who fell for every rich man’s line of love, Catherine knew what she wanted. And it wasn’t some sweet talking dandy. No, even if her mother had wanted her to stay with her aunt to learn to act like a lady, she planned to marry Trent McCall and become a rancher’s wife in the greatest state in the union. �śThen tell me who he’s hired to work the party. Ms. Lillian? Or Madame Foch?” She stepped forward and caressed the bay’s neck. The smooth hair under her palm calmed Catherine’s nerves. For most of her life, she’d planned to be Trent’s wife. What if he didn’t find her desirable? �śI don’t want him to be with another woman only hours before seeing me for the first time in years.” She didn’t need the comparison. Tom groaned. �śHe’s a man, Catherine. He’s bedded lots of women while you’ve been gone.” He dropped the brush in a nearby bucket and studied her face with a probing glare. �śYou’ve had outings with other men, too, right?” She nodded. �śBut I never�Ś” The words backed up in her throat. She swallowed hard, dipped her head and stroked the bay. How could she tell him she’d known the appeal of the opposite sex, had seen the hunger in men’s eyes while cleaning up after the girls at the burlesque shows? Neither her mama nor her aunt knew about her job as a maid in the theater. They both thought she had attended to the needs of a pampered socialite. But what other choice did she have? No other job paid as much so she’d lied. Her face burned. No one in Texas knew about her real life back East, especially not her parents. �śFor God sake, Tom, you know I grew up on my father’s ranch. I understand the basics of sex.” But I’ve never sleep with a man. I only ever wanted Trent. She ignored the anger, bubbling through her veins at the thought of Trent bedding another woman and jumped ahead. �śWe’re practically engaged. He shouldn’t be fooling around.” �śDon’t see how you can stop him.” Tom ran his hand across his chest, and a frown marred his brow. �śHis dad has everything arranged for Thursday night. We’re setting up tables for food and drinks in here. We’re even having a fiddle player so the cowboys and ladies can dance. Ms. Lillian is bringing the girls around nine, and they’re not scheduled to leave until dawn.” Four days. She scrambled for a plan to keep Trent away from those women. Feeling defeated, Catherine fought the tears burning behind her eyelids. �śDo you think it’d help to talk to Ms. Lillian?” �śNo.” He grabbed his shirt off a hook and shoved his arm into the sleeves. The ripple affect of his chest muscles sent a tingle of longing through her. Would Trent look as good without a shirt on? �śMs. Lillian lives more than fifty miles away. There’s no way you can ride across the state without the whole county finding out about it.” Tom stomped past her and grabbed the bay’s reins to lead the horse into a stall. The pungent odor of manure assaulted her senses. She glanced down and whipped her skirt from the mess on the dirt floor. What could she do? The man deserved to celebrate his safe return from the cattle drive. �śAnd what exactly would you say to her anyways?” Tom stepped out of the stall and closed the door. The sound rumbled through the large barn. �śShe won’t listen to you. The McCalls are one of her biggest clients.” �śFine.” Catherine, struggling for a viable alternative, grabbed his arm. �śThen help me arrange for him to meet me somewhere else that night.” �śCat, the man hasn’t seen you in four years. He won’t want to give up a night of fun with a whore to have tea with you.” He scanned her blue, silk dress as if she still belonged in Boston. �śYour mother would probably faint if she learned you wore such a get-up to parade through the barn.” She tightened her grip and refused to let Tom step away. �śI’m not serving him tea.” His gaze met hers. She raised an eyebrow and caught the moment he deduced what she planned to offer Trent. �śYour father will kill you if he ever finds out, and me along with you if I agree to help.” The slight slump in his shoulders and his grim smile signaled his defeat. Catherine grinned and released his arm. Tom might be married, but he knew her dream and he wouldn’t let her down. �śThe hunting cabin out in the back forty should be the perfect place for us to meet.” Tom stared at her a moment, his expression revealing his need to argue. Then, as if coming to terms with her stubborn determination, he nodded, pulled a handkerchief from his back pocket, and wiped his hands. �śAnd how exactly do you plan to pull this off?” **** Noise echoed from the barn’s rafters. A fiddler played a lively tune while the men and women squirmed on the dirt dance floor and twisted to a beat that had nothing to do with music. The sweet scent of liquor filled the area. Trent licked his lips and spotted a few men passed out in the corners. Not particularly in the mood to party, Trent eyed the half-dozen women in the barn. One sat, bouncing on a cowboy’s lap. Against the far wall, another woman took Lester’s hurried thrusts. The ecstasy on her face ignited an ache in his groin. He shifted his gaze to the whores on the dance floor and located a busty blonde by the buffet table holding court with two half-drunk wranglers. He closed the barn door and proceeded to the beer barrel. Maybe a drink would dim the conversation he’d just had with his father. He picked up a glass. How could his dad expect him to marry a girl he hadn’t seen in years? �śHey, Trent, it looks like you got to the party a little late. Good thing, Ms. Lillian saved a special girl just for you.” Tom White, the ranch’s foreman, stood alone against a nearby stall. �śWhat? Isn’t this the selection for the evening?” Trent scanned the half-clad women. Had his father set up a private session in the hope of softening his resistance toward the idea of marriage? �śWhere’s she hiding?” �śSaid you’d find her at your old hunting cabin.” Tom tipped back his glass, drained it, and slammed the empty on the table. �śAs for me, I’m heading home to my wife. These boys don’t look like they’ll last much longer.” Trent studied the motley group. �śYou’re right. Not much point of hanging around here if there’s a woman waiting for me somewhere else.” He turned and strolled out of the barn. After the weeks he’d spent in the saddle, he could use a different kind of ride. One that included pounding into a hot pussy and releasing the frustration pooling in his loins. Tom followed him outside. �śI saddled your horse and tied it over here by mine.” Trent’s favorite stallion waited next to Tom’s bay. Why hadn’t he noticed his horse when he’d entered the barn? �śThanks, Tom.” He walked to the black horse and untied the reins from the hitching post. A cooling breeze brushed across his face and some of his earlier anger with his father’s ultimatum faded. �śI bet the girl waiting on me is already asleep.” Tom strolled to the bay. �śCan’t say. My wife always seems to be awake no matter what time I make it home. Women just like knowing where their men are.” The slight stoop of his foreman’s shoulders and his reluctance to leave seemed at odds with his words. What’s the burr under his saddle? Then Tom swayed on his feet and mounted his horse. Must be drunk. Trent put his foot in the stirrup, slung a leg over the stallion’s rear, and landed in the saddle. �śWell, I better get moving. I’ve already wasted half the night, and I still have a twenty-minute ride in front of me.” Trent waved and guided the stallion down the trail leading from the house. Luckily, the moon, glowing on the horizon lit the path and made the trip easier than some of the black nights he’d endured on the cattle drive. Images of women flashed in his head. He settled on a brunette with full breasts and creamy white skin. Need tightened his balls, and he shifted in the saddle to ease the pressure, then kicked his mount and the soft canter turned into a gallop on the dirt path. Dark shadows lurked over the landscape. A sorrowful yelp echoed across the plains, and he scanned the area for coyotes. Why couldn’t the varmints find another place to feed? And why�"damn it�"did his father arrange for him to take a wife without consulting him first? He had no desire to join the war between the North and the South, but that didn’t mean he needed to get hitched to avoid serving. Lots of men had decided to continue with their lives and not become involved in the skirmish. Catherine Turnberry was the daughter of their closest neighbor, and as a child she’d been trying at best. Wild brown hair streaming around her face, gangly arms and legs, she’d be lucky to�Śanother vision replaced the first. The day he’d come across Catherine riding across his family’s land. A broad smile across her face, she’d worn pants and looked like a boy. Yet the moment he’d flagged her down, he noticed the open neckline of her blouse and the gentle curve of her breasts. She’d swung off her horse and landed right in front of him. �śThis better be good, Mr. McCall, because I’m already late.” Her sassy manner had ignited his interest. Was she still such a rebel to question a man twice her size? He glanced ahead and directed his horse across a small creek. With the cabin in sight, he licked his lips in anticipation. Maybe the pleasure of bedding a woman would lighten the load of facing a wedding. Tonight, he could enjoy himself�"no Catherine, no marriage, just a long night of rowdy fucking. **** �śIt’s too hot for a fire.” Catherine groaned at the wooden walls and ignored the book on her lap. A light breeze from the cracks in the shutters swept along her neck and under the collar of her cotton robe. Her gaze darted to the bed in the corner. A worn quilt she’d allowed to air all day covered the sagging mattress. Clean sheets lay underneath the spread. Should she turn down the covers to make the bed look more appealing? Or would he care more about what she had on? She ran her hand along her ribcage and pictured the black corset under her robe. The tight fit hugged her waist and lifted her breasts. She shifted in the rocker, and the soft fabric of her favorite pink bloomers stroked her legs. Butterflies danced in her stomach. Could she really go through with this? And what was taking Trent so long? Did Tom forget to tell him? The sound of hooves against the hard ground heightened her nerves. The thud of boots on the porch pulled the breath from her lungs. The latch clicked and the door opened. A large man filled the doorway. Four years hadn’t changed Trent’s tall muscular frame. Wide shoulders, sinewy arms, narrow hips, and a flat stomach, he stood like a Viking ready for battle. Heat, with a touch of fear, filled her body at the thought of him lying over her. She drew in a hurried breath, closed her book, and rose from the chair. �śWell, now, did you think I’d ever arrive?” He shut the door and tossed his hat onto the table by the door. Dark curly hair circled his head, and his dark brown eyes met hers. �śI had no doubt you’d get here eventually.” Her hands shaking, Catherine laid her book on the rocker and tried for a more seductive tone. �śBut I’d like to know what delayed you.” One corner of his mouth turned up in a crooked grin, he stepped forward, and then paused. �śWait a second, don’t I know you?” Catherine nodded and toyed with the knot holding her robe together. Should she shed her robe and try to seduce him first? Or just tell him her name? He tilted his head slightly, and a frown formed on his lips. The subdued lighting of the lantern didn’t mask the lines marring his brow. Apprehension slithered over her skin, and a lump the size of Texas grew in her throat. �śI�Śuh�Ś” �śCatherine?” More of an accusation than a question, her name echoed in her head. �śYes, I�Ś” She edged closer. He shuffled backward until his back hit the door. �śWhat the hell are you doing here?” His gaze dropped to swell of her breasts, and the cattywhumped expression on his face registered. Clarity filled her head. The man might deny it, but the heat in his eyes proved he found her appealing. Energy pulsed through her, and she untied the knot at her waist. �śI decided, since we’re practically engaged, I didn’t want you sleeping with another woman.” �śWhoa, don’t even think about removing that robe.” He held out his hands to stop her, but his tongue slid over his parched lips and the blaze in his eyes sparked higher. Catherine’s confidence grew, and the doubt that had plagued her for the last few hours faded. He might resist, but she’d show him this was what they both wanted. He shook his head, and a frown marred his brow. �śYou don’t need to do this.” �śThen you weren’t planning to make love to another woman tonight?” She lifted her hands to her collar and eased her robe off her shoulders. It fell to the bend in her arms. �śBecause if you are, it’ll have to be me. I’m the only woman you’re allowed to touch from now on.” His head jerked like he’d taken a shot to the chin. He drew back his shoulders, and his eyes flickered with anger. �śWe’re not married yet.” �śMeaning, we will be soon.” She lowered her arms, and the robe fell to the floor. Excitement coursed through her veins at being this close to the dream of having Trent in her arms. He rubbed his hand over the back of his neck as his gaze sped over her exposed body. �śWhere did you get that outfit?” �śI bought it for you.” She stepped boldly forward, hoping the sexy garment would increase her appeal. But maybe he needed more incentive. She tossed her long hair over her shoulder to give him the full view of her breasts. �śDo you like it?” He shook his head. �śA man gets ideas when a woman shows off her underwear.” Good. Catherine arched her back to expand the fabric covering her breasts and sauntered across the rough wooden floor with an exaggerated swing in her hips. She laid her hands on his chest. Never in her life had she wanted something as much as she ached for Trent. �śReally? What kind of ideas?” �śWicked thoughts of removing all her clothes.” He lifted his large hands, and his fingers toyed with her bloomers. Liquid need coated the lips between her legs, and she waited impatiently for his hands to slip beneath the material. What would it feel like to have them on her pussy? She’d seen men pleasure the women at the theatre with their fingers and they seemed to enjoy it. �śAnd do I get to undress you, too?” She slipped the top button of his shirt loose and trailed a finger over the base of his throat. �śYou shouldn’t be here.” He groaned and caught her wrists in an iron grip. �śNot with me, not tonight, I have a hunger that will consume us both if you don’t get out of here fast.” The fire in his stare should have frightened her, but instead, the impure thoughts in her head intensified. For four years, she’d dreamed of being in his arms, touching, kissing, making love to him. She refused to wait another day. �śWhat if I yearn for the same thing?” He locked his jaw, as if afraid to speak. The grip on her wrists loosened, and he dropped his hands to her waist. The heat of his body drew her closer and warmed her soul. Could she give him everything he wanted? Doubt resurfaced, but she refocused her attention on the smooth line of his neck. The small knot of his Adam’s apple bobbed when he swallowed. She toyed with the next button on his shirt, determined to convince him no matter what she had to do. Trent slid his hands along her ribcage and cupped her breasts. A light squeeze, then his thumbs caressed the tips through the silk of her corset. Need pulsed through her breasts, and her nipples tightened into taut points of agony. A low moan escaped, and she closed her eyes to absorb the pleasure his touch evoked. Catherine waited for him to say something, anything that would release her from the torture of wondering if he would refuse her. �śWe shouldn’t do this.”A groan rumbled in Trent’s chest and vibrated through her hands. Heat shot straight to her core. �śPlease, Trent. You have to make love to me.” **** Oh, fuck. Trent gathered every drop of self-control he possessed and removed his hands from Catherine’s lush breasts. No longer a half-pint child, she’d grown into a sassy woman who tightened his cock and numbed his mind with need. And he’d been without a woman too long. He massaged the curve of her shoulders and toyed with a silky strand of copper hair. �śYou don’t know what you’re asking.” She opened her green eyes and stared at his lips for a few seconds then met his gaze. Pink touched her checks. �śYou want to sink into a woman and satisfy the hunger in your soul. I understand that. I have a brother and two male cousins who’ve educated me on how much a man can ache for a woman.” With smooth creamy skin and a willowy figure, her beauty captured his lust and held him prisoner. He couldn’t back away. �śMaybe, but a woman like you should have a ring on her finger before she gives herself away.” A shy smile softened her lips. She worked a few more buttons on his shirt loose. �śWhat if I’m not willing to wait?” He captured her hands against his chest. He forced air into his lungs, and her alluring scent filled his senses. When was the last time he had held an innocent woman, slipped into her tight cunt, and enjoyed her na�Żve response? The temptation pulsed through his body, and his balls churned with the need to come. Images of shoving her against the door and taking her right on the spot taunted him. Careful of the field you plow, boy. There are women you can fuck for fun, while others demand more devotion like marriage. His father’s words played through his mind and cooled his desire. He eased back and turned his head to keep her from seeing how much he wanted what she offered. The bed across the room tempted him with the pleasure he’d have on the feathery mattress. �śCatherine, a woman is expected to wait until her wedding night before she has sex.” �śBut if you’re going to be that man, why do we have to wait?” Her innocent question nicked his conscience. Was he really willing to marry her? The thought didn’t stick in his craw as it had when his father mentioned it earlier. He studied her face. Excitement sparkled in her gaze, and her slightly parted lips offered an invitation to partake of the pleasure of her mouth. After a long moment, his gaze dropped to the full swell of her creamy breasts and on to the shapely curve of her waist. She certainly had the body to satisfy him. But did she have the grit to be a rancher’s wife? After all, she’d spent the last few years in a big city. Hell, was she even innocent? With the way she was parading around in her underwear, she might have had a number of lovers during her stint in Boston. Still, honor wouldn’t allow him the freedom to make love to her unless he knew for certain she’d one day be his wife. After all, his father had already agreed to their marriage. �śAre you a virgin?” A fire lit in the depths of her eyes, and with a quick jerk to free her hands, she stepped back. �śI won’t be after you make love to me.” His patience thin, he grabbed her shoulders. �śDon’t play with me. Have you ever had a man between your legs?” She blinked at his coarse words and shrugged out of his grip to stand a few paces away. �śNo, I haven’t ridden a man’s cock. Happy?” She threw the last word at him. Pleasure coursed through his body. If no man had touched her, then after tonight she’d truly belong to him. He grinned, content at last with what it would mean to take her innocence. �śYes.” �śWell, that makes one of us,” she grumbled and turned to walk away. Where she was headed he didn’t have a clue, but he caught her around the waist before she could escape and hauled her against his chest. He groaned when she rubbed her ass against his engorged erection. �śYou best be still.” She turned in his arms, and her green eyes flashed with anger. �śOr what? You’ll finally do what you came here to do and take me to bed?” He captured her face in the palm of his hands. The soft silk of her hair played between his fingers. �śYes.” Her body wilted against him, and a little smile formed on her pink lips. �śPromise?” Air rushed from his lungs. How could she tempt him so? He leaned his forehead against hers. �śGod, Catherine. Are you always this persistent?” She snuggled closer, and her fingers trailed over his back. �śYes, when I really want something.” �śAnd you think you want me?” He lifted his head a few inches from hers and wrapped his arms around her. She hadn’t seen him in years, didn’t know the first thing about him. How could she be so sure she wanted to marry him? �śBecause most people will tell you, I’m not an easy person to get along with.” �śI know. You can be stubborn, domineering, and downright rude if the mood strikes you, but you also have a kind heart.” She tugged his shirt from the back of his pants. �śAre you sure?” He guided his hands down her back and untied the bow at the back of her corset. She had to be out of her clothes soon, or he’d rip them from her body. He shoved his hands lower, cupped her plush ass, and tugged her closer to his aching cock. �śI�Śuh�Ś” She squirmed and worked her hands between them until she managed to slide them around his neck. �śCan we discuss this later?” He brushed his lips against hers, and she shuddered. From need or fear? Her hands burrowed through his hair and didn’t allow him the space to pull back. Instead, her lips ran over his with hungry, wild kisses. Lust shot through his body to the sole of his boots. Consumed by an obsession to taste her, he captured her mouth and thrust his tongue deep. God, she was so incredibly sweet. Her unique flavor set off a firestorm in his blood. His cock turned rock-hard, and he wanted her so badly he couldn’t decide what to do. Tear off her clothes and carry her to bed? Or sink to the floor and take her right here? A low sigh escaped her as she eased her lips away. Her shallow panting brushed his ear as he licked and kissed his way down her neck to the soft hollow at the base of her throat. �śTrent, please. Let’s move to the bed. My legs won’t hold me up much longer.” She wobbled on her feet. He tightened his hold and drew in her intoxicating scent�"fresh spring flowers dancing in wind. He nipped her ear lobe then lifted his head. �śAre you trying to hurry me?” �śNo, I�Ś” Her endearing confusion drove him to action. He swept her into his arms. �śGood, because I plan for this to take all night.” After laying her on the bed, he tried to straighten so that he could remove his clothes, but her arms were locked around his neck. He eased down by her side and drank in the sight of the light freckles on the tip of her nose, the small bow of her lips, and the round curve of her chin. Just looking at her drove him insane. He longed to strip off her boomers and plunge deep, to take her hard and fast, but he couldn’t introduce her to sex that way. No, he needed to take it slow so as not to frighten her. After a calming breath, he guided a single finger down the center of her body. �śAs much as I like this sexy getup, I’d prefer if you’d take it off.” A smile spread over her lips, and she moved to sit up. �śSure, but you’ll have to unwind the tie in the back.” He rolled out of her way and noticed the labyrinth of hooks the string ran through. She reached around and plucked at the twine holding the contraption together. �śWait a second, let me help.” He grabbed the two ends of the ribbon and slowly unwound the crisscross pattern. The task reminded him of the stakes involved in bedding Catherine. Could she endure the hours she’d have to spend alone while he was away riding the range or gone on a cattle drive? She’d need to learn everything it would take to be his wife, like how to run a household and�Ś She wiggled and tugged on the corset. A gap formed, and the soft line of her spine popped into view. He jerked the string, and the material fell away. Before he could savor the full picture of her milky white back, she eased backward and settled beside him, her arms across her chest, each hand covering a breast. �śThat thing might look sexy, but it’s impossible to get in and out of.” Her shy actions hit him in the chest. She’s never been with a man. Suddenly uneasy with the reality of the situation, he rose to sit on the side of bed and stared at his boots. The smooth charm he usually relied on failed him. Hell, who was he kidding? Had he ever been with an innocent woman? Buying himself some time to decide how to proceed, he shed his boots and tugged his shirt over his head. Catherine squirmed on the bed behind him but remained quiet. Had she changed her mind? After tossing his shirt to the rocker, he turned. Every drop of blood in his body rushed to his cock. His mouth fell open, and he worked his jaw up and down like a fish trying to breathe air. Completely naked, Catherine lay against the quit. He swallowed at the incredible sight of her breasts and the rosy tips of her nipples. He laid a hand over the flat plane of her stomach and examined the crisp auburn curls sprinkled against her mound. Words backed up in his throat, and he wondered if he’d died. This had to be heaven. �śTrent.” She slid her hand over his. �śI’m sorry, but I don’t know what to�Ś” He blinked, and his gaze flew to her face. The lump in his throat wouldn’t budge so he sputtered around it. �śCatherine, I’m trying really hard to go slow here. But a man only has so much willpower.” **** Catherine studied the serious look on Trent’s face, and the tension in her body eased. His concern for her was holding him back, not his lack of desire. For the first time since he entered the cabin, she felt as if he actually wanted her as his wife. Yes, he wanted to fuck her, but for him to think about her pleasure instead of his own confirmed her belief in his caring nature. Her gaze dropped to the brown hair covering his chest. Small male nipples lay hidden in the shadows, and lean muscles outlined his strong frame. Unable to keep from touching him, she sat up and brushed her fingers through the curly horde. �śThen maybe we should speed things up.” �śCatherine.” The rough sound of his voice drew her gaze to his mouth. The garnet color of his lips tempted her, and she leaned forward to brush her mouth against his. The taste of him sparked images of springtime�"fresh air, a warm gentle breeze, and the sun soft and inviting on her face. She wanted more and threw her arms around his neck. Trent rubbed his large hands over her shoulders and along her back. �śHoney,” he murmured against her lips. �śYou need to trust me. It’ll be so much better if we take our time.” Yet, his actions defied his words when he took possession of her mouth. She offered no resistance to his will, and the wet stroke of his tongue ignited a fire in her blood. Silken strokes teased the roof of her mouth, and her moans joined the low chirp of the crickets outside. His arousing kiss transported her into a fantasy world she’d only imagined before tonight. The brush of his hands tickled her ribs. She twisted away, and his thumbs hit the underside of her breasts. Energy surged through her chest, and her nipples tingled. Air backed up in her lungs, and she drew back. Trent released her mouth and lifted his head. She gasped for air and sank back onto the bed. He followed her to the surface and rested his weight on one elbow. The heat of his body scorched her side. He scraped his callused hand over her ribs and cupped her breast in his palm. �śI’ve always enjoyed having a woman with nice breasts.” The twinkle in his eyes and the soft smile on his lips revealed his desire. Yet, she couldn’t see how her body looked different than any other women. �śWhy?” He lowered his head to her breast. �śBecause I like�Ś” He licked the tight tip, and moist heat shrouded her nipple. The seductive squeeze of his hand sent a bolt of lighting through the center of her body. Moisture gathered in her core. She gasped and tightened her grip on his thick biceps. �śOh, my, that feels incredible.” Trent wrapped his tongue around the peak and sucked the bud deep into his mouth. Sweet delight changed into a maddening frenzy when he raked his teeth over her nipple. A long moan escaped from her throat, but he didn’t let up. Instead, he shifted his mouth to her other breast while his fingers toyed with the nipple he’d left behind. Pleasure bordering on pain seared through her chest. A hunger grew low in her belly, and she rocked her hips to appease the ache between her legs. Confusion clouded her mind. This wasn’t the same as when she’d pleasured herself. Anticipation fluttered over her skin like a swarm of butterflies seeking nectar. I never imagined my breasts could be so�" He skimmed a hand over her stomach, circled her navel, and traveled lower. His finger rustled through the short hairs covering her mound and slipped between her folds. Catherine gasped at the unexpected penetration and lifted off the bed. �śTrent.” He raised his head, and the dark lust in his brown eyes added to the incredible sensation of his probing finger. �śYou’re nice and wet.” The deep tone of his voice sent quivers of longing down her spine. �śAnd oh so tight.” �śBut�Ś” She struggled to form words while at the same time absorb the thrill of his seductive touch, and she marveled at the difference from her own. Strong and forceful, he plunged a finger into her cunt, retreated, then added another on the next thrust. His mouth covered her breast again, sucking it deep as he added another finger and spread her wider. Delicious pressure built in her womb, and a quick breath rushed into her lungs. She closed her eyes to savor the exquisite sensation and released a long moan. The wet sound of his hand working in and out of her pussy fed her desire. She rocked her head back and forth on the pillow and pumped her hips, begging him in the best way she knew how not to stop. Suddenly, the suction over her nipple ended. Air cooled the over-sensitized tip. A shiver raced down her spine. �śI can see you like having my mouth on your breasts and my fingers inside you.” He ran a wicked finger over her clit. �śBut there’s so much more I plan to discover before you explode.” Trent shifted one knee between hers. The other followed. The rough cotton of his pants grazed her thighs. She cracked open her eyelids as he rolled onto his haunches between her legs. A crooked smile curved his lips as his dark gaze fell to the apex of her thighs. Naked and exposed, she rose onto her elbows and pulled herself toward the top of the bed. The large bulge under his pants drew her attention. �śDon’t you need to shed your breeches?” �śNo.” He guided his hands over her knees and along her inner thighs. The warm touch stopped inches from her pussy. He leaned closer and his nostrils flared. �śYou smell heavenly, and I bet you taste even better.” Before she could grasp the meaning behind his words, he dipped his head and ran his tongue along the seam of her nether lips. A scream erupted from her throat and a fire blossomed in her core, sending licking flames down her thighs. She captured his head with her hands and arched her back. �śDelicious,” he muttered and eased his hands under her hips, lifting her pussy to his mouth. One long stroke of his tongue, followed by a light flutter over her clit. Each swipe vibrated through her core until her whole body pulsed. She wiggled and squirmed, the raw passion almost too much to bear. His head in her hands, she held him against her hungry flesh as his tongue dipped into her in quick jabs and ignited waves of pleasure, almost frightening in their intensity. Each pushed her higher, shoving her into a dizzying height of ecstasy. She rocked her hips, begging for more. More what, she couldn’t determine. �śTrent, please�Ś” His mouth shifted and he lassoed her clit between his lips. The fierce sucking action sent pleasure spiraling deep into her womb, ripping a yell from her lungs. Trembling with the power of her orgasm, she lowered her hips and closed her eyes. The foot of the bed dipped, and a light scraping noise whispered through the room. �śGod, Catherine, I can’t wait another minute.” The head of his cock knocked against her opening. Her eyes sprang open, and she grabbed his shoulders. Suspended over her with his weight resting on one hand, he nudged his rod deeper. One stroke, two, the thick length filled her pussy. Catherine gasped. His weight pinned her down while his cock stretched her inner walls. She locked her gaze to his. Dark emotion swirled in their depths and plunged her into a wondrous, new world. �śAh, fuck, I never thought�Ś” He slid a little deeper, then wrenched his hips back and slammed forward again. A slight pain ripped through her womb. She stiffened and her breath hitched. �śTrent!” He tucked his arms close to her side and nibbled on her neck. �śEasy, baby, the worst part is over.” He moaned as he slowly rocked his hips and sank further into her sex. She expected another twinge, but when none came, she relaxed. Each stroke ground his cock against her clit, and he slowly built a fire inside her pussy. Hard, relentless quivers bombarded her nerve endings. Adrift and needing to anchor herself, she wrapped her legs around his waist and circled her arms around his brawny back. He lowered his head and his mouth rained kisses along her neck to the base of her throat. After a quick lick, he sucked the tender flesh into his mouth. The action reminded Catherine of a stallion claiming his mate by teasing her with rough bites to the neck. An invisible cord formed through the center of her body connecting his cock to the sucking pressure of his lips. Her heart raced, and a soft cry sprang from her lips. �śOh, please.” Trent increased his pace. The pounding force of his thrusts drilled deeper�"harder. He released his hold on her throat, and the heavy sound of his breathing whispered passed her ear. Her second climax hovered out of reach, waiting like a coyote to rip her apart. She tightened her grip and begged for the end to come. A savage groan tore from Trent, and he plunged his cock deep. The spasms of his orgasm released the bonds holding her hostage, and her body exploded into a furious shudder of delicious flames. Moments later, Trent rolled onto his side and gathered her against his chest. �śGod, what a day,” he whispered followed immediately by a soft snore. �śYou can say that again.” **** Catherine stared at the tin roof in the distance, glowing from the low light of dawn. Scrub oaks and tumbleweeds dotted the landscape. A few cows grazed on the parched grass. The heat of late summer baked the ground, and dust devils kicked up dirt. Yet, the rough scene called to something deep in her soul. Home. She’d been away too long. A warm breeze brushed her cheek, and she turned her face into the caress. Memories of turbulent weather filled her mind. West Texas ran the gambit from sizzling summers with hail and dust storms and a tornado thrown in for variety, to frosty winters. No one could predict what would hit next. How she’d missed the hot baking sun, followed by the chilly winds of winter, the open range, the scruffy animals, and the smooth velvety sound of a southern drawl. Trent’s in particular. Never again would she have to endure the stifling noise of Boston. After last night, her future was secure. She’d live out the rest of her life in Texas with Trent. They’d build a life together. A smile bloomed on her lips, and she rocked with the easy gait of her horse. An image of Trent lying naked on the bed made her smile. She’d hated leaving him this morning, but she had to get home. The empty space in front of the house showed no movement. Was anyone up? Near five o’clock, they’d be rising soon. �śCome on, boy, let’s get you some feed. Then I can head on in and rustle up some breakfast for everyone else.” She tugged on the reins and drew the horse to a stop on the dirt path by the fenced in front yard. The door to the barn opened, and a dark figure filled its frame. �śMorning, Catherine. Enjoy your ride this morning?” The teasing tone of her brother’s voice told her he guessed where she’d been. Joel’s face held a wicked smirk, but she wouldn’t confirm his assumptions. �śNo, I still haven’t located that cow that’s due to deliver any day now.” She swung her leg over the rump of her horse and dismounted. �śThe ornery cuss will probably stay hidden until after the calf is born.” �śYeah, well, women are known for not doing what their told.” Her brother’s heavy footfalls sounded behind her on the way into the barn. �śBecause everyone in the household knows you snuck out last night.” Not caring what anyone thought of her spending the night with Trent, she guided her horse into the first stall. �śAnd not a one of them will say a word.” �śWant a bet?” Joel walked to the barrel at the end of the stall and removed the lid. She scanned his lean, whip-cord body as he scooped a few handfuls of feed into a bucket. Not much taller than she, he looked almost like her twin with the same auburn hair and green eyes. They also shared the same determined Irish attitude. He’d unknowingly helped her capture Trent’s attention. Through the years, he commented on what he found attractive in women. How he liked them to wear silky clothing and thought women should tell men exactly what they wanted. But her time at the theatre had given Catherine a real education of pleasing a man. Joel, however, didn’t know about her cleaning job or how she’d acquired the corset hidden inside her saddlebag. �śNothing to bet on.” She rested a hip against the stall gate. �śDad and Mom both understand what’s at stake here. They want me married and settled so they can move to the city.” Joel handed her the bucket and waited until she dumped the feed into the trough before he said, �śYes, but what happens if Trent decides not to marry you. Just because a man is willing to accept,” he ran the toe of his boot through the hay scattered across the dirt floor, �śa woman’s favors, doesn’t mean he’ll sign up for a lifetime commitment.” �śTrent’s not like that.” He’d even tried to talk her out of making love last night. And he didn’t know she had secured their future with a lease on her father’s land. Hell, she didn’t want him to know. He had to want to marry her and not what she could bring to their marriage. She placed the bucket outside the stall and met the concern in her brother’s gaze. �śHe’s a man of honor.” After staring at her for a moment, he asked, �śThen he’s asked you to marry him?” Telling a bold face lie stuck in Catherine’s craw. She wanted to bend the truth to ease his mind but couldn’t. �śNot in so many words. But when he comes over tonight, I have no doubt he’ll offer marriage.” �śThen you gave away the milk before securing a promise first.” He shook his head. �śI hope you’re right. Because no other man will marry you after he learns you slept with Trent McCall. You’ll be shunned by every woman in town and the men will only come around for one thing.” He turned and walked away. Her horse lifted its tail and dumped a load of manure. The pungent scent tickled her nose. She laughed and patted her horse’s rear. �śYou’re right, Gus. Joel is full of shit. There’s not a snowball’s chance in hell that Trent won’t marry me. Not with everything I have to offer. Not after last night.” **** The soft moan of a calf drew Trent’s attention from his thoughts. He stared at the cattle feeding in the pasture and automatically calculated the number in his head�"twenty. Was that all the cattle Pat Turnberry had left? More than a hundred had accompanied his family’s herd on the drive to Abilene. �śHe can’t have many more, not with the small size of his spread,” he muttered and fingered the check in his breast pocket. The meeting he’d set up today with Mr. Turnberry before leaving for Kansas with his herd now had a more important purpose. His father assured him a union with Catherine would serve him well. Why? What did Mr. Turnberry have planned? A dowry of money? Or property? Trent shook his head. Did he really need either? Beautiful and sexy, Catherine tempted him in a way few women could�"innocent and na�Żve one moment, hungry and wild with passion the next. He tightened his hands on the reins and recalled the silky softness of her skin, the musky scent of her sex, and the creamy sweetness of cunt. God, he wanted to slide into her tight pussy again. And he would have if she hadn’t snuck out on him this morning. He stood in the stirrup to ease the tight pressure in his balls and studied the homestead in the distance. The scrub oaks on the western and northern side of the house would help hold back the wind. Good planning for those cold, bitter mornings�"the walk to the barn and corral wouldn’t cut so deep. Chipped paint spotted the fence that sectioned off a small yard in front. Both the two-story house and the fence needed a new coat of paint. Trent drew closer and noticed Mr. Turnberry sitting in a rocker on the porch. He nodded his greeting and led his horse to the hitching post by the front gate. After swinging out of his saddle, he wrapped the reins around the metal ring. Mr. Turnberry shifted forward in the rocker and worked his legs under his round body before lifting himself to his feet. He laid a hand on his back and stretched. His stiff movement and sparse gray hair pointed out the man’s age. A rancher for years, he’d not taken a wife or had a family until after he turned forty. �śEvening, Trent. Just about to head out to the barn to check on a mare.” He strolled down the stone path leading to the front gate. �śCare to join me?” The question didn’t sound like a request. �śSure, I brought your check, minus the fee for driving your cattle to market.” Trent passed through the gate, pulled out the slip of paper, and handed it to Mr. Turnberry. �śShould be enough to get you through a few more years.” Mr. Turnberry’s eyes narrowed, and he glanced at the amount of the check before slipping it into his pocket. A worried frown marred the old man’s brow as he turned and strolled toward the barn. �śThat’s part of what I want to talk to you about, boy.” Trent fell into step beside him. �śAnd you also want to know if I plan on marrying your daughter.” The man stopped, and light green eyes, so different from his daughter’s emerald ones, sank into Trent’s. The knowledge of what had happened in his hunting cabin the night before was there. Trent opened his mouth to reassure Mr. Turnberry of his intentions, but the old man raised a hand and continued across the rough ground to the barn. Trent didn’t budge. He couldn’t read the man. Was he angry? Disappointed? Or ready for a shotgun wedding? Trent straightened his shoulders. What every happened, they’d hash it out. The cooler temperature of the barn greeted Trent when he crossed the threshold and glanced around for Mr. Turnberry. �śI’m down here, boy. I’ll be out in a minute.” The voice rang from the other end of the barn. Trent strolled past several stalls and stopped at a small pen near the back wall. A dark brown mare stood in the center of the enclosure. Fresh straw scattered across the floor. Mr. Turnberry stroked the horse’s round belly. He spoke softly to the mare and slid his hand over the dark teats and squeezed a small stream of milk from the end. A spurt of yellow liquid landed on the ground and then Mr. Turnberry straightened. A low neigh rumbled from the mare, and she swung her head back over her shoulder. �śIt’s okay, girl. I’ll be here when the time comes.” Mr. Turnberry opened the door and stepped out of the enclosure. He pointed to the mare. �śHow long do you think she has?” Trent glanced again at the liquid on the ground and the dull black tip of the horse’s teats. �śAt least another day or two.” Mr. Turnberry nodded, locked the gate leading into the pen, and turned. His gaze ran from one end of the barn to the other. A slight frown wrinkled his worn face, and he leaned back on the wooden post behind him. �śI should have known better than to marry a woman from the city.” His father had made the same mistake and had come out on the raw end of the deal when Trent’s mother disappeared. Confused, and a little wary about what Mr. Turnberry might say, Trent waited for the old wrangler to explain. What did this have to do with him and Catherine? Was her father warning him she might want to return to Boston? Finally, the man’s gaze met his, and the pain in the depths punched a hole through Trent’s gut. He stiffened and held his tongue for the news to come. �śYou, boy, won’t have the same problem. Catherine loves this place.” Mr. Turnberry surveyed the barn again. �śShe worked for the last four years and invested her money wisely so she could lease the ranch from me.” What? Catherine couldn’t run a ranch by herself. Again, Mr. Turnberry’s gaze lit on him. �śYou’re getting a good woman, boy.” Trent blinked. �śI’m sorry, what did you say?” A toothy grin split the old man’s face. �śWell, you’re here to ask for my daughter’s hand in marriage, ain’t ya?” �śYes, but�Ś” The vague conversation with his father about settling down suddenly became clear. If Catherine held the lease on Turnberry’s ranch�"hell every man in the territory would be courting her. �śI didn’t know.” �śDidn’t want you to.” Turnberry strolled away from the stall and slapped Trent’s shoulder. �śCatherine planned for you two to be hitched before word leaked out about her mother and I leaving town. But I thought you should know before you officially asked her. The girl is rather determined when she sets her mind on something.” A small chuckle bubbled in the old man’s throat, and he eased back. �śAnd she’s got her sights on you.” Trent blinked. �śYeah, but what about your son? Doesn’t Joel want to run the ranch?” Turnberry shook his head and pursed his lips. �śNo, he wants to go off and fight in the war. The dad-burn idiot is just going to end up getting himself killed.” The rough tone of the old man’s voice spoke of both pride and concern. Deep wrinkles scarred his face, and the strong width of his shoulders slumped with the weight placed on them over the years. His hands trembled. �śAnd what are you planning to do?” Trent couldn’t imagine the old wrangler being happy anywhere else but at the ranch where he’d worked most of his life. Turnberry groaned. �śIf I’m lucky, I’ll get to smoke a few cigars while I escort my wife around town.” He stepped forward. �śMary Ellen always wanted to live near a big city so we’re looking at buying a house somewhere near Ft. Worth.” He strolled to the barn door, grumbling on the way, �śGuess she deserves it after putting up with this place for so many years.” Trent marveled at Turnberry’s sacrifice for his wife and laid his hand on the old man’s shoulder to draw him to a halt. �śAnd you don’t have any problem with me marrying Catherine and running the place?” A wicked grin settled over the man’s face, and he rubbed his hand along his neck. �śNo, you won’t have any problem with the ranch.” He eased back his shoulders as if to release some built up tension. �śBut Catherine isn’t an easy woman. Loyal and faithful to a fault, she’ll raise holy hell if she makes up her mind she wants something and doesn’t get it.” �śAnd she thinks she wants me?” Trent struggled to understand why. �śHas since she was fourteen.” Shock rippled through Trent. �śWhat?” �śSaid you were the only man in the territory worth marrying.” Mr. Turnberry glanced at the sun sinking lower on the horizon. �śThat’s part of the reason we sent her to Boston. But it didn’t help. She just became more determined as the years passed.” Trent tugged off his hat and ran his fingers through his hair. �śBut what if I’d married someone else while she was away?” �śNever seemed to bother her.” The old man wandered toward the house. �śI guess we better get inside before Catherine decides to come looking for us.” Trent, struggling with what he’d just learned, didn’t register the trip to the front door until he stepped over the threshold. �śWelcome, Trent. We’re so glad you could come by for an after-dinner drink this evening.” Mrs. Turnberry’s skirt swished softly around her, and the noise drew Trent’s focus back to the present. He cupped his hand around his hat, slid it from his head, and nodded at Catherine’s mother. Decked out in her finest dress, she wore a cameo necklace and had her dark, brown hair pulled back in a bun at the base of her neck. Her dark eyes and thin lips didn’t resemble Catherine’s. He scanned her face for similarity and recognized the straight line of her nose and the round shape of her face. �śThank you, Madam. It’s a pleasure to be invited into your home.” She took his hat and placed it on the entry table then led him into the parlor. �śPat will probably have bourbon. What would you like?” �śI�Ś” An elegantly dressed woman stood on the other side of the room. The rich fabric of her blue satin gown spoke of a refined city woman, but the demure curves matched Catherine’s. Pleasure, quickly followed by doubt, sped through his thoughts. He wanted a woman who could charm his guests and looked elegant, but she also had to work hard and enjoy the rough lifestyle of ranching. Could Catherine be that woman? Or would she head back to town like his mother when things didn’t pan out the way she planned? Her father said differently, but Trent couldn’t forget the years she spent in Boston. She might decide she wanted to go back. Then what? He edged forward and, for the first time, noticed the polished, young man beside her. Jealousy twisted a hole through Trent’s gut, and the desire to deck the man sped to his fists. How dare she entertain another man when he came to propose marriage? �śCatherine, why don’t you introduce Joel’s friend to Trent?” The sound of her mother’s voice pulled Catherine from an argument with Kirk. She turned and drank in the beautiful sight of Trent. In a starched white dress shirt, his tanned face and dark hair radiated with a healthy glow. He marched forward, and the thud of his boots against the floor rang through the room. The dark glint in his eyes confused her for a moment. What was his problem? Could he be jealous? Ridiculous. Something else had to be wrong. She strolled forward and reached out her hand, seeking comfort from the misery of both her brother and his friend heading off to war. �śI’m so glad to see you.” He glared at Kirk. �śI didn’t know you were entertaining another guest.” �śKirk, I’d like you to meet Trent McCall.” Catherine laid her hand on Trent’s arm. �śTrent, this is my brother’s best friend, Kirk Murphy. He’s going off with Joel to join the war.” Trent extended his hand but refused to look at her. �śAnd when are y’all planning to leave?” Catherine dropped her hold on Trent’s arm and returned to Kirk’s side. They were leaving way too soon as it was. How could Trent encourage their departure? Why was he acting this way when she was trying so hard to stop them from going? A laugh burst from behind Trent, and her brother slapped him on the back. �śNot for a few more days. So you best behave when you’re around my sister.” Trent clasped hands with Joel’s and offered a hearty shake. �śAnd how long do you expect to be gone?” Catherine scowled at Trent’s back. What was his problem? �śNot nearly as long as you’d like me to be,” Joel teased and released Trent’s hand. �śWe’re heading over to Dallas. We plan to follow the Trinity River to the coast before making our way over to New Orleans.” Catherine’s heart sank. They didn’t need to fight in this war. She’d argued with both men for days now, but they refused to listen. �śYou could always change your mind and not go.” Joel grinned and Kirk slung his arm around her shoulders. The warm circle of his arms soothed some of the heartache she felt at them leaving. Maybe, she could convince him to stay behind. But her gaze met his and she knew it was useless when she saw the determination reflected in his solemn blue eyes. He wouldn’t budge no matter how much she’d begged. �śWe’re going to miss you, too. But this is something we have to do.” She turned into his embrace, hugged him close as tears blurred her vision. �śJust promise me you’ll come back.” Kirk squeezed her tight for a moment then released her. �śMaybe, if we don’t find some sweet southern belle and decide to get hitched.” �śOh, you.” She smiled at his attempt to lighten her mood. �śJust bring her back with you.” �śAnd have you tell her all my flaws?” He strutted to the high-backed floral couch and sank into its fluffy cushions. �śI don’t think so.” �śBut�Ś” �śTrent, you never said what you’d like to drink.” Her mother’s question drew Catherine’s focus back to him. �śNo thanks, Mrs. Turnberry. If you don’t mind, I’d like a few moments alone with Catherine?” He headed to the door without another word. Frowning, Catherine glanced at the father for approval. He nodded, and she fixed her stare on Trent’s back. Was he nervous about proposing? Or was he having second thoughts? Maybe, if they were alone, he’d tell her what was bothering him. �śWhy don’t we take a stroll out to the barn? Dad has a mare that is about to foal. We can check on her.” �śNo, you shouldn’t�"” her mother exclaimed. �śShe’ll watch where she steps,” her father interrupted. �śYes,” her mother huffed. �śBut that dress wasn’t designed to be worn in a barn.” Trent held out his hand for Catherine to precede him. She ignored her mother and led the way to the front door. His hand brushed her waist when he reached for the knob. He swung the door open, and the fresh scent of pure male aroused her, and a shiver raced down her spine. �śThank you.” She glanced at him and smiled, but his blank expression didn’t change. Clasping a handful of fabric in each hand to lift her skirts off the ground, she strolled across the front porch and down the steps. Had he changed his mind? Did he not want to marry her anymore? Pain pierced her heart. Had she miscalculated and fallen into the same trap as the girls at the theatre by letting her feelings and attraction rule over logic? But he’d appeared happy enough last night. The thud of his boots crunched on the stone pathway, but she didn’t pause at the gate for him to open it. Instead, she hit the latch and swept through, then swirled around to hold it for him. Her gaze flew to his face. A black hat shadowed his eyes�"when had he put it on?�"but she could still make out his stony expression as he stomped through the gate. It was all the proof she needed to confirm her suspicions. He wanted to end their relationship. A wave of dread crashed over her and her legs wobbled. Tears stung the back of her eyes, but pride held them in check. �śOkay, we’re outside where no one can hear us.” She planted her hands on her hips, and the gate slammed shut. �śJust say your piece, then get on your horse and go.” �śNot just yet.” He wrapped a hand around her upper arm and strode across the yard, dragging her along in his wake. �śWe’ll talk in the barn.” �śWe don’t need to.” She jerked her arm from his grasp and drew to a halt. �śYou can tell me whatever you have to say right here.” Trent stopped after a few steps and glanced back at the house. �śJust because they can’t hear us, doesn’t mean they can’t see us.” Disgusted at his high-handed manner, she lifted her skirts and marched toward the open barn doors. �śFine, but let’s make this short.” The earthy scent in the barn should’ve squelched Trent’s desire, but it didn’t. He scanned the area for the ladder leading to the loft and lengthened his stride to ease the pressure growing in his cock. A bed of hay would be the perfect place to show her just who she belonged to. His gaze fell to the gentle sway of her hips and up the straight line of her spine. She didn’t like his possessive attitude. But hell, what did the woman expect when she threw herself in the arms of another man right in front of him? The subdued lighting cast shadows across her soft features when she turned to face him. �śSo spit it out. What’s on your mind?” Something about her belligerence didn’t feel right. Her beautiful green eyes, which had thrown daggers at him a moment ago, refused to meet his now. Her bottom lip quivered slightly. She rubbed her hand over her neck and ruffled the lace on the neckline of her dress. He stalked closer and she edged back. One step, two, the hunt ended when he pinned her against the railing of a stall. �śTell me about your brother’s best friend.” She blinked. �śWhat?” Shock swept across her face. Yet, he couldn’t hold back his doubts. �śWhat are your feelings for him?” �śI love him, just like I love Joel.” She dropped her chin, and Trent tightened his grip on her waist. �śBut right now I’m not too happy with them. There’s no reason for them to go off and fight in this war. No one can win.” The tight pressure in his chest eased. She might not have been playing him for a fool after all. �śAnd that’s the only reason you were hugging him?” She grabbed the front of his shirt. Anger flashed in her green eyes. �śIs that the burr you have up your ass? Because if it is, you can just�"” He dove for her lips. The woman talked entirely too much, and the only sure-fire way to shut her up was to occupy her luscious mouth. He smoothed his hands along her ribcage and over her hips. The delicate silk of her dress made him question her stamina for living on the frontier. She wouldn’t have it easy. Life here was tough. Could she really handle the pressures of being a rancher’s wife? But could he let her go? The tight grip on his shirt loosened, and her hands slid around his neck. She answered his kiss with a passion that turned his cock to granite. Her tongue, lips, and mouth tasted of pure heaven and stirred his hunger for more. He ground his groin against the yards of fabric barring entrance to her moist center. She rocked her hips and rode the length of his shaft. Trent cupped her ass and squeezed. A sigh hummed from her throat, followed by a few frantic whimpers. The sound vibrated through his body. God, he had to fuck her. He tore his mouth from hers and charted a path to the curve of her neck. �śPlease tell me you need me as much as I need you,” he murmured against her skin. �śBecause right now, I have to be inside you.” She threw back her head. �śYes.” He leaned back enough to lift her skirt. �śI hope that means we’re planning a wedding.” Joel’s voice echoed from the entryway of the barn. �śOr else I’m going to get my gun.” Catherine’s head lowered to Trent’s shoulder. �śCould he have worse timing?” Trent wrapped his arms around her waist and whispered, �śIn another minute, he’d have found me pounding�"” �śSo what’s the answer?” Joel persisted. She lifted her head and their eyes connected. Trent lifted a brow in question. �śSo are you going to marry me?” After a slight nod, she turned her head and yelled to her brother. �śWe’ve decided you’re not invited to the wedding. Now leave us alone.” Thrilled that she’d accepted his marriage proposal, Trent didn’t relinquish his hold. They deserved a few minutes alone. �śAnd if you hope to have any of our children named after you, you better not return for at least an hour.” A burst of laughter sounded from the opening. Kirk answered instead of Joel, �śWon’t work. Because even if Joel is willing to skedaddle, I’m not leaving until you come out.” Catherine placed a quick kiss on Trent’s cheek and wiggled in his arms. �śWe’ll just have to postpone this until later.” �śSure,” he sighed and turned but maintained a hand at her waist. Maybe they could arrange to meet later tonight at his hunting cabin. **** The sky glowed with a thousand stars, and Catherine basted in the knowledge that finally all her dreams were coming true. Trent swung into his saddle, his tall and handsome form highlighted by the light streaming from the windows of her family’s home�"her future home with Trent. She smiled, pleased at the thought of telling him about the lease she’d secured on her father’s ranch. She imagined his delight at them having a place of their own. He gave a quick little nod and tugged on the reins. His stallion danced in a circle and then fell into a smooth canter. Catherine didn’t move but enjoyed the sight of Trent in the saddle as he rode away. �śTrent McCall is a good man.” Her father’s voice rang from directly behind her. �śHe even asked if your brother wanted to run the ranch when I told him about the lease I gave you on the ranch.” Catherine’s heart jumped into a gallop and fire sped through her blood. She whipped around. �śWhat? Why did you tell him?” �śNow, Catherine, the boy deserved to know the truth.” Her father stepped to one side and directed her toward the house. �śYes, but I wanted to tell him,” Catherine argued and refused to budge. �śNow, honey, that was man talk. I needed to make sure he’d take care of you and the ranch. After all, I’m still your father and this is still my ranch. I won’t hand over either of you to someone who can’t appreciate you both.” He strolled toward the house, leaving her to follow. She spun on her heels and crashed through the front gate, doubts hounding her as she strolled for the barn. One thought plagued her most. Was empty sex enough to build a marriage? **** Hot air brushed Catherine’s cheek. The wind yowled a warning of the abuse to come. She tossed the long braid of her hair over her shoulder and glanced at the reddish glow to the west. The dry plain, stretching out for miles, waited for the storm on the horizon to blow through. Where did that stupid cow leave her calf? She urged her horse into a dry creek bed and scanned the underbrush for any sight of the newborn. Today would be the last time Catherine would have more than a few moments to herself. Her mother, planning every detail of the wedding, had them leaving at dawn for the church in Old Lubbock. Trent had arranged for them to stay in town Friday night, and then they’d head back for a party at his father’s place on Saturday night. She shook her head and grumbled at all the hoopla, �śWhy do we have to go through all this?” A low bawling sounded nearby. Searching through a thicket of sagebrush, she caught sight of the calf. The white-faced newborn raised its head and peered at her with its big brown eyes. Drawing in a dry dusty breath, she checked the horizon again. The dark, red cloud lying low over the land crept closer. Need sparked through her blood at the strength of the storm. Wild and fierce, Trent’s gaze the other day had the same hunger. Oh but, he could ignite her passion whenever she allowed herself to think about him. If her brother hadn’t interrupted, what would he have done? Lifted her dress and tore off her petticoats so he could sink his thick cock into her pussy? A drop of moisture seeped onto the crotch of the pants she’d borrowed from her brother. She longed to ask Trent, but between his family and hers, they hadn’t had more than ten minutes alone in over a week. Why couldn’t everyone just leave them alone? She still needed to question Trent about the real reason for his proposal. To know if he loved her or just wanted her father’s ranch. If only her father had kept his mouth shut? Irritated by the interference, she swung out of her saddle, drew the reins through a nearby bush, and collected her rifle. �śWe’d better get out of here before that storm hits. First, little fellow, if you’ll just stand up and walk on over here, it’d make this a lot easier on both of us.” She glanced around and stepped closer, but the calf didn’t budge. Less than a few days old, the calf probably decided to ride out the approaching dust storm in the brush. �śToo bad your mother deserted you or she might have offered some help.” Catherine lowered her voice. �śBut it’s not a problem. Trent’s hunting cabin is not very far from here, and he won’t mind if we use it.” Squatting on her haunches, she carefully studied the calf. �śNow you need to come out. I don’t want to have to come in there and get you?” �śBest leave him where he is.” The male voice, so close behind her, spooked Catherine. She spun around, landing on her butt, her rifle aimed at the intruder. �śWhat the�"” Trent grabbed the end of her gun and jerked it out of her hands. �śI ought to tan your hide. Can’t you see there’s a dust storm blowing in?” His unexpected appearance lit her passion, but his harsh tone ignited her anger. She scrambled to her feet and yelled over the howl of the wind, �śI was hoping to get this calf in before the storm hit.” The dark glint in his eyes would have sparked fear in most men, but she refused to bow under his scrutiny. She straightened her shoulders and stood her ground. His gaze dropped to her off-white cotton shirt and on to her black pants. �śWhy are you dressed like a man?” �śWhat difference does it make?” She stepped forward and tugged her rifle from him, no longer caring what happened to the silly calf. She put away her weapon, gathered the reins, then swung into her saddle. �śDo what you want, but I’m headed out of here.” She kicked her heels into her horse’s flanks, urging him into a gallop. She glanced over her shoulder to see if he was following. Grit hit her face and fear bloomed in her chest. Less than five hundred feet away, a dust cloud obliterated the landscape. She blinked to clear her vision and caught a glimpse of Trent, but the unrelenting wind slashed across her face and blinded her. Stunned by the swift moving storm, she slid sideways in her saddle from her horse’s uneven gait. She gripped the reins tighter and turned toward Trent’s hunting cabin ahead. Not too much farther. She glanced over her shoulder again, expecting, hoping to see Trent. Terror instantly drenched her body in a cold sweat. The light from the sun dimmed, falling into a twilight haze in the middle of the afternoon. A fine powder coated her throat, and muffled her call to Trent No answer. But with the roar of the wind, he probably couldn’t hear her. Too afraid to slow down and praying he was still behind her, Catherine raced toward the cabin. Her attention swung between the log house on the horizon and the cloud of dust on her heels. Dust storms were deadly. Dread crawled down her spine. She tugged on the reins and her horse slowed to a trot. �śTrent is used to this type of weather and he wouldn’t want me to wait, but�Ś” She turned, and the wall of dirt shriveled her courage to the size of a prune. The full weight of what could happen to Trent pressed down on her shoulders, and she slumped over the saddle horn. �śHe can’t die.” Her horse stopped in front of the cabin. Catherine slid from the saddle. Her knees wobbled under her weight, and she held on to the saddle horn to stay erect. She scanned the path she’d just followed. Nothing moved in the limited range of her sight. He was okay. He had to be. All her dreams for the future, for the ranch�Śthey meant nothing if Trent wasn’t with her to share them. She drew the reins over her horse’s head, holding tight so he wouldn’t bolt, and wrapped the thin leather around the post. �śOkay, boy, we’ll give him a few minutes. Then�Ś” Catherine sank against the rough log wall. She buried her head in her hands. �śGod, please don’t let anything happen to him.” **** The hazy view ahead revealed only a horse near the cabin. Trent blinked and searched the area again. Panic bubbled through his gut. He kicked his horse and rocked in his saddle with the increased pace. The calf in his arm bellowed. �śCatherine,” Trent yelled, but the wind muffled his voice. A figure stepped from behind the horse, and relief swam through him. He flexed his shoulder to ease the tension and led his horse to a stop beside hers. �śGet inside,” he barked and swung from his saddle with the calf in his arms. �śI’ll take care of the horses.” He rushed around the corner of the cabin and entered the small lean-to position next to the side wall. He dumped the calf in center of the shed and started for the door. It opened before he could reach it. �śCatherine, what the hell are you doing?” He grabbed the reins for both horses from her and led them inside. Furious with her for not obeying his order to get out of the storm and strung out from fear for her safety, he grabbed her arm and half carried her toward the cabin. Once inside, he slammed the door and pulled her around to face him. He saw the tracks of tears on her dirty face just before she flung her arms around his waist. �śMy god, Trent, what took you so long?” He wrapped his arms around her. On the trail to the cabin, he’d imagined all sorts of horrible things happening to her, afraid she would veer off the path and get lost. She must have experienced the same hell. The tight bands around his heart loosened as she trembled and tightened her hold. �śCatherine, I�Ś” A knot formed in his throat. He closed his eyes and squeezed her tighter. The possibility of losing her had plagued him for the last hour. He’d stopped by the Turnberry’s ranch to warn them about the storm and had found her gone. What had possessed her to venture out into this weather? Why risk her life for a silly calf? The woman should have been held up in the house, safe and sound. He grabbed her shoulders and looked into her frightened face. Damn it, she should be scared. She could have died. �śDon’t ever pull a stunt like this again.” He shook her to drive home the point. �śUnderstand?” Anger flared in her eyes. She flung her forearms up and dislodged his grip on her shoulders. �śDon’t tell me what to do. I’m not some silly city girl. I have a ranch to run, which, by the way, you knew about before you asked me to marry you.” Tears again streamed down her face. She shuffled sideways to break free, but he blocked her escape and pinned her against the door. He leaned close, so close her breasts brushed his chest. Desire sizzled with anger and heated his blood. How could she not know how much he cared about her? Ranch or not, he couldn’t live without her. �śYou know as well as I do that’s not the reason I want to marry you,” he ground between his teeth. �śAnd as your huband, it’s my responsibility to keep you safe.” A silent battle sparked between them as the constant pinging of debris against the cabin filled the quiet room. The walls groaned from the abuse. Trent absorbed her beauty, her strength, her determination. Here, she’d put him through hell, and she still refused to back down. Most women would be quivering under his glare and the threat of the storm, but his woman had grit. She understood the rough life of living on a ranch in Texas. If things got tough, she wouldn’t desert him. His doubts eased, and he softened his grip on her shoulders. She dropped her gaze, and a different emotion crossed her face�"fear? Maybe regret? She bit her lip, and lust streaked to his groin. Her hands drifted to his chest, and she whispered, �śI’m sorry, Trent. I didn’t mean to scare you. I forgot how quickly a dust storm could blow in.” Her apology pleased him, showing him she understood his concern and wasn’t above reason. He shifted, and the rough texture of her shirt scrapped his palm. �śWhere did you get these clothes?” �śThey’re Joel’s.” �śThen you shouldn’t be wearing them.” Trent tugged her shirt from the pants and lifted it over her head. �śI can take them off if you like,” she whispered in a seductive voice as he tossed the shirt onto the table beside them. �śOh, no, I don’t want a slow strip-tease. I want them out of my way.” He dropped to one knee and tugged off her boots. He made quick work of the closure on the breeches and ripped them from her body in one sweep. �śNow.” He crowded closer, pressing her against the door. The fragrant scent of her sex flowed around him and increased the impression that all was right in his world. He’d been an idiot to doubt her ability to be his wife. She was perfect�"now�"in the future�"and for the rest of their lives. �śTrent�Ś” She gripped his head. The desire to taste her drew him to her silken pussy. One lick. He ran his tongue along her wet folds and his taste buds watered. �śNo, I�Ś” Another stroke and he found the moist center. Hot. That was the only word to describe her. Her fingers dug through his hair, and she shifted her feet wider apart. He circled her clit with the tip of his tongue. �śPlease, Trent.” Her heavy breathing competed with the wind outside. Trent closed his lips around the delicate nub and tugged lightly. A scream erupted from her throat and spasms pulsed against his mouth. Cream spilled onto his tongue, and he lapped up the rich treat until her orgasm ebbed. The hands in his hair slid to his jaw, and she drew him from his knees. �śWhy don’t we get you undressed now?” Ah, fuck, he wouldn’t last long enough for her to take her time undressing him. Not with his fingers roaming her plush ass, and his rock-hard erection separated from the curly hair covering her mound by only a thin layer of fabric. He had to claim her as his. �śGod, Catherine�Ś” He captured her mouth and drove his tongue deep, mimicking the action of his cock driving into her cunt. Wild little cries escaped from her, confirming her reawakening need for him. He squeezed her ass and drew her onto her toes. She lifted her legs and wrapped them around his waist. Moist heat seeped through his pants and greeted his groin. He tore his mouth from hers and lowered his head to suck her nipple into his mouth. The rough texture of his pants rubbed against his cock as he ground his hips against her wet center. A cry sprang from her mouth. She squirmed and once more wove her hands into his hair. �śPlease, Trent, I need you.” �śJust a sec,” he grumbled and used his weight to hold her against the wall as he unbuckled his belt and unbuttoned his pants. Her arms locked around his neck and her legs around his waist while the material on his hips slid lower. His cock sprang free, and he palmed his shaft to guide the swollen tip into her heat. A quick thrust and he sank deep into her heavenly body. �śTrent!” She arched her back. �śOh, but I love that you’re a screamer.” He grabbed her ass and pumped deeper. Every fiber of his being shouted for relief. He rocked his hips and set a frantic pace that rivaled a galloping stallion. �śYes,” she moaned, and a soft blush colored her skin. Trent pounded in and out. Perspiration trickled down his spine and their combined scent intensified his lust. He shifted one hand between their bodies and found her clit. With a screech, she threw her head back against the door. The walls of her pussy clenched his cock and slammed him to the end of his endurance. He drove deep, buried to the hilt. His cum spewed into her, branding her as his. As the last pulse of his release died away, a smile split his lips at the possibility of his baby growing inside her. He laid his chin on top of her head and worked to catch his breath. After a moment, he withdrew his cock and released his hold on her hips. She dropped her legs and lowered her hands to his waist. �śI guess you don’t like me wearing my brother’s clothes. Or did you just want to fuck me?” The rough words she used when they were alone stirred his lust, but he couldn’t resist teasing her. �śA lady shouldn’t use such language.” She lifted a brow, and the tips of her breasts speared his chest. �śI thought we established the fact that I’m no lady. Don’t you remember the last time we were here? And the getup I had on?” He tweaked her nipples and pictured her drinking tea in an elegant parlor in Boston. �śBut you sure look pretty in your blue satin dress. No one would ever guess what a hellcat you�"” A finger touched his lips and silenced his words. Green sparks lit her eyes. �śDon’t go there. Just because I’m wearing a pretty dress or putting on the dog for some guests doesn’t mean I’m some city girl. I like riding horses and working outside. That’s why I left Boston. Texas is my home, where I want to live. I don’t want to be anything more than a rancher’s wife. Your wife.” �śGod, I love you,” sprang from his soul, surprising him as much as her. She smiled and grabbed the tail of his shirt, then smoothed her hands over his ass. �śGood, because I fell in love with you the day I caught you behind your father’s barn making love to Karen Sue Miller.” A slight blush turned her cheeks pink. �śWhat I saw that day fed my dreams for years.” Fantasies of his own flashed in his head�"Catherine naked in the hayloft, swimming nude in the lake, or maybe on all fours while he slammed into her from behind. She squeezed his ass, and a slow burn built in his balls. He groaned and cupped his hands around her face. In a little over twenty-four hours they’d be married. �śAs soon as we’re married, you’ll have to tell me a few of your fantasies and we’ll try them out.” �śWhy wait?” She drew his hips forward and ground the curly hair covering her mound against his hardening cock. �śWe still have a while before the storm lets up and no one is here to stop us from doing anything we want.” The green fire in her eyes matched the passion racing through his veins. How could he be blessed with such a perfect woman? �śYou’re right. There’s no reason to wait.” He eased back and whipped his shirt over his head before shedding the rest of his clothes. Holding her hand, he led her to the bed, sat on the side, and drew her between his legs. �śNow, Catherine, tell me your favorite fantasy.” About the Author Wild and Crazy, meek and shy, at times Anita Philmar has all these characteristics. A normal person with a husband, two kids, and a dog, she loves people and enjoys meeting new friends as well as old ones. She spends most of her time alone, because she’s chosen to be a writer. The kiss of death for some, she enjoys the adventure of discovering new worlds in her head and hopes her readers find pleasure in there as well. Visit Anita at www.anitaphilmar.com To chat with Anita and other Wild Rose Press authors of erotic romance, join us at www.groups.yahoo.com/group/thewilderroses. Also Available Fairy Fun � by � Anita Philmar Dedrick Forester, Prince of Endole, is fast approaching the end of his fairy cycle, which means losing his ability to fly, transforming into a wood gnome, and having to choose a mate. Until then he just wants to have fun�Śand lots of sex. King Rosewood of Evermore is determined to see his daughter wed, but Chloe loves the freedom of fairy flight too much to settle down as a frumpy old wood gnome. She escapes and spreads her wings to reach new heights�Ślike air sex with a stranger. Combine her passion with Dedrick’s and sparks light up the sky. Both discover pleasure beyond their wildest fantasies. But neither is prepared for the emotional connection. Now Dedrick must convince Chloe that losing her wings doesn’t mean there aren’t other ways to fly? To purchase Fairy Fun and other erotic titles, visit www.thewilderroses.com.