by Ciana Stone
"That's where I come in. Wiley and I are starting a breeding farm, vast bee yards, and butterfly houses. We'll try to convince others around the country to do the same. Maybe we won't be too late. But to hedge our bets, I'll develop the synthetics to supplement. History doesn't have to know my name. Hell, Reese Quinn isn't even my real name, so it doesn't matter."
"Then what does?"
"That what my father started, the knowledge he stored here," she tapped her head, "and the knowledge he died to protect, will live on. Through me and my work. That way, whether anyone knows it or not, the Sokolov family contributed to humanity, rather than took."
"Sokolov."
"Yes, sir." She stuck out her hand. "Katya Sokolov."
Russell smiled and took her hand. "Russ Walker, ma'am. I think it's going to be real interesting partnering up with you and Wiley."
"Yes, sir. I think so as well."
"You want to drop the sir now?"
"No, sir. I don't think I can do that."
"Whatever you say, Reese. That's the name you go by, correct?"
"Yes, sir."
"Is it okay if I call you Reese?"
"Yes, sir."
He chuckled and turned away from the corral. "Then let's go find our boys. You young people can have lunch, and I'll call Wiley and get things rolling."
"Thank you, Mr. Walker. I won't let you down."
"I hope not. I'd hate to see that day."
Something in his tone had her feeling a bit of apprehension. Russell Walker was not a man she'd want to cross, and she got the impression that she'd also not want to see what happened when he was let down.
Riggs was standing beside the fence of another corral, watching as Mathias ambled around the inside of the corral, ignoring a beautiful and quite large horse who stood near the far fence with his eyes on Mathias.
"I'm going to leave the good Doctor with you, son," Russell said. "Myrtle will have lunch ready when you are."
"Thanks, Pop. I want to give Matty a few more minutes. Looks like Rebel's Child is developing quite a curiosity about him."
"If anyone can charm that beast it'd be Matty. Let me know when you're ready to eat, and I'll join."
"Sure thing."
Reese watched Russell walk away then turned her attention back to Mathias and the horse. Matty looked at the handful of grass in one hand, picking at it with the other and humming softly. "What is he doing?" she asked.
"Just watch."
A minute or two later, the horse wagged his head up and down and snorted. Mathias didn't react at all, just continued to stroll and hum. Another minute passed, and the horse lowered his head, raised it then took a couple of steps.
Still, Mathias didn't react. It must have been ten minutes total she watched. The horse snorted, pawed and inched away from the fence one step at a time until finally, it started moving and walked up behind Mathias and bumped him in the back with its nose.
Mathias stopped and turned slowly. He offered the grass to the horse without speaking. It had to have been a full minute or more before the horse lowered its head and nibbled. Mathias slowly raised his free hand and rubbed it along the side of the horse's face.
"Nice to meet you, Rebel's Child."
The horse looked at Matty, lowered its head for a rub and then turned and trotted away. Mathias walked over to the fence. "If I have more time, I could work with him, but if you're patient, he'll be one hell of a stallion to breed."
"That's what I think. Thanks. Y'all want to have lunch?"
"Actually, I need to get back," Reese said and looked at Mathias. "If that's okay?"
"Sure, it is." He climbed the fence. "Riggs, tell your father thank you, and with luck I'll see you soon."
"You bet. It was nice to meet you, Reese. I hope to see you again."
"Likewise," she responded and smiled. "Have a good day."
She and Mathias headed for his truck. Once they were headed down the long drive, he looked over and asked. "Well?"
"He said yes."
Mathias smiled and reached over to take her hand. "That's great. Right?"
Reese wanted to be excited, but the truth was, the next step was one she dreaded. "Yes, it is. It will be. I just hate having to pretend to fail."
"Is that ego talking?"
Wouldn't you know that he'd get it? "You really are much more than just a smokin' hot guy, aren't you?"
"I'd like to think so."
"Well, you are, and yes, I guess it is. I worked hard to achieve respect in my field, and I'm not looking forward to blowing that up."
"You can always change your mind."
"No, I can't." She released his hand and raked both of hers through her hair in a gesture of frustration. "If I'm true to why I started this, then I have to do it. Otherwise, I'm part of the problem, and I want to be part of the solution." She looked out of the side window for a moment. "I didn't realize I had an ego problem until now."
"You have far less of a problem than most. And for what it's worth, I'm proud of you. Most people wouldn't give up the glory and what would surely be a big payoff."
"Has anyone ever told you how incredibly good you can make someone feel with your approval?"
"No, I don't think so."
"Well, you do, and I'm sincere. You're such a good person that a compliment like that from you is like basking in the sun after a long winter."
"You give me too much credit."
"No, I don't. Not at all. Like what you did with that horse. That was amazing. And speaking purely from a female standpoint, sexy as hell."
"Sexy?" He laughed. "I've never heard that."
"Well, it's true. And your friend Riggs seems like a genuinely nice man."
"He is. What'd you think of his father?"
Reese searched for the right words. "I don't know that I've ever met anyone with such a big presence. He seems to exude power, but it's acceptance rather than arrogance. It's like knowing you're the lead dog in a pack. He accepts it as his right and is comfortable with it.
"He might well be a fair man, but he agreed to our offer because it benefits him and he's always going to consider that first, and I guess that makes sense. Heritage is more than just a ranch. It's a conglomerate, and I'd imagine there are hundreds if not thousands of people who depend on it for their livelihood. I'd guess he takes that seriously.
"I'd also guess that it would be very unwise to cross him."
"You read people well."
"I read behaviors and patterns well, but not like you. You see inside people. And don't tell me it's not true. I've felt—no wait, maybe that's the wrong word. I've sensed a new pattern in myself when I'm intimate with you—physically or emotionally. There's something different about the energy, the pattern is different, and I suspect it's you."
Reese angled toward him as much as the seatbelt would allow. "Whatever it is, I like it. And I like you, Matty. A lot. Maybe more than is wise."
"You're safe, Reese."
"Am I?"
"You are. I don't have the power to hurt you."
"How can you say that?"
"Because you've already taken my heart, so I have no power over you."
Never in her life had she heard such words, and it nearly overwhelmed her. "Pull over."
"Something wrong?"
"Just pull over."
Mathias did as she asked. She had her seatbelt unfastened and was crawling on his lap by the time he had the truck parked. "Wha—?"
He never got the word out of his mouth because she covered his mouth with hers. Reese felt his arms go around her and loved that he took control of the kiss. She felt that indefinable something waft through her mind and was seized with emotion so powerful it nearly took her breath.
When she realized what it was, she had to choke back tears.
Wiley had once told her that when it happened she'd know it. At the time, she'd scoffed and argued that she'd never know what it meant.
She was so wrong. Now she knew. She was in love wi
th Mathias Gray Horse.
Chapter Ten
Less than a week after shaking hands with Russell Walker, Reese was back at Heritage. She, Wiley and Russell Walker had gone over the agreement he'd had drawn up and agreed on everything but one point.
"I should have thought to mention it earlier, and I apologize," Reese looked around the table at everyone.
"Is this a deal-breaker?" Russell asked.
"I'm afraid so, sir."
"Explain why."
"It's simple. Naomie is who actually constructed the prototype."
"I thought it was your invention."
"Yes sir, it is, but she created the physical model based on the design I gave her. And she made improvements, so it's her design as well."
"And you don't think there are others just as competent to take on the job of overseeing mass production?"
"No, sir, I don't."
He nodded and looked at Wiley. "What's your take on this?"
"I support Reese. She's the brains, and if she says we need Naomie, then I back her."
"All right." Russell turned his attention back to Reese. "I'll agree, providing I'm granted the opportunity to meet with her first. How soon can you get her here?"
"A couple of days. I asked if she'd be interested in helping me with my insect farm and she said when I got serious to hit her up. Right now, she's trying to get a grant to do another wolf study."
"Wolf study?"
"Yes, sir, she can tell you all about it. The point is until the grant comes through she's not involved in a project, so I think I can convince her to come aboard."
"Then get her here and let's talk."
"Yes, sir. When?"
"As soon as possible. Call when she's here, and I'll free my schedule."
"And until then?"
"We have a provisional agreement."
"That works for me. Wiley?"
"I agree." Wiley stood and offered Russell his hand. "We'll be in touch."
"Excellent. Have a good day."
"And you."
Russell looked at Reese, and she smiled. "Thank you, sir. You'll be hearing from us soon."
"I look forward to it."
Reese and Wiley went outside and got into his SUV. He started it up and then looked over at her. "You really think she's that essential?"
"I wouldn't have pushed for it otherwise."
"That's enough for me. So, how are things working out with you and Mathias?"
"Fine, why?"
"Just asking. You know Mercy's friend Netta offered up her guest room until you can find a permanent place."
"Thanks, but I'm fine where I am."
"Are you?" The look he gave her told her this was not a casual conversation.
"I am. I care for him, Wiley. No, that's a lie. I love him."
"Are you sure?"
"I am."
"And does he know that?"
"Maybe. I haven't said it, but Matty's one of those people who picks up on things, so maybe I don't have to say it."
"Everyone wants to hear the words, Reese."
"Do they?"
"Don't you?"
"I don't know. I think so, but then maybe not because it's such a big thing once the words are spoken."
"How so?"
"Once someone tells you that then you become responsible."
"Responsible?"
"Yes. Your actions and responses and words have an impact on the other's life."
"And you don't think the same holds true if you don't say the words?"
"You never stop do you?"
He cut a look at her. "Trying to get you to admit you have emotions and be honest about them? No, I don't."
"That's mean, Wiley. And unfair. Just because I don't wear my feelings on my sleeve doesn't mean I don't have them and you know it."
"And yet, you're still not honest. That statement you made that telling someone you love them makes you responsible. You know what I hear behind those words?"
"I don't guess I can stop you from telling me."
"Not likely, smartass. I love you, and you know that and it sure as heck doesn't make you responsible to me for anything. You said what you did because you're scared, and I get it."
"I'm not scared. Of anything."
Wiley reached over to take her hand and give it a brief squeeze. "You're the most scared person I've ever known, honey."
"What an awful thing to say."
"But true and even though you cover it, I know. I see it and dear God, you're entitled, so I'm not insulting or condemning. I don't know many people who've had a life as plagued with danger and loss. It's enough to scare the strongest person and make someone afraid to love."
"I'm not scared, Wiley." She didn't raise her voice, nor did she take offense. She knew he spoke with love and she wanted him to know she spoke true. "Seriously. Have a look." Reese offered her hand.
This time when he clasped it, he hung on. A minute passed before he released her hand and looked at her again. "Tell him, honey."
"I will. When the time is right."
Wiley nodded. "Good enough. Now, about this Naomie. Get on the phone and see what you can do about getting her here."
Reese smiled, glad to be on a topic besides her love life. "On it, boss." Hoping that Naomie wouldn't let her down, she placed the call. It went straight to voicemail, and she left a message.
There was nothing left to do but wait.
*****
Mathias entered the house through the back door, toed off his boots and set them on the boot rack before continuing to the laundry room where he peeled down to his boxer briefs and tossed his clothing into the hamper.
It'd been a long couple of days. Reese had crashed at Wiley's next-door neighbor's, Netta Bloom for a few nights so she could go over finalizing plans for the venture with Wiley and trying to arrange for someone she was keen to work with to come and meet with them and Russell Walker.
He'd been surprised just how much he missed her. When she came back, he wanted to have a talk with her about that and about where they were going in their relationship.
When light filtered down the hall from the kitchen, he headed that way. Reese must have gotten back just a minute after him. He walked into the kitchen and stopped dead in his tracks.
Reese had her ass propped against the countertop with both hands on the granite surface. Rather than the tight jeans or loose cargo pants she favored, she was dressed in a strapless dress of near transparent material. It fit snuggly across her breasts and down her torso to flow out over her hips in an array of irregular lengths of fabric that reached not quite to mid-thigh.
She was barefoot, and her long tumble of blond curls was worn loose, framing her face and shoulders like a golden halo. Mathias had thought she was beautiful the first time he saw her. Now she was spectacular. Not to mention sexy. He couldn't think of anything but touching and tasting, taking her quick and hard then long and slow.
Almost as soon as the thoughts took control, something intruded to taint his passion. Was she feeling the same? She was definitely dressed to seduce, but her expression was one that was uncommon. She looked uncertain.
Damn, the feelings he had for her were screwing with his head. So much so, that it dimmed his ardor, but not his appreciation for her appearance.
"That's some outfit."
Reese wasn't psychic, but she was skilled in the art of observation, and she'd seen the change in his expression and body language. What was going on? One moment he was obviously turned on, and now he seemed to be cooling right off. Maybe it was just as well. She needed a clear head, and it was difficult enough with him standing there near naked.
"We need to talk."
"Okay, as in you're getting ready to tell me something I don't want to hear?"
"No. I mean, I don't know. I hope not."
"Well, that's as clear as mud." Mathias walked over to the refrigerator and pulled out a longneck beer. He popped the top, took a swallow and leaned back against the counter b
eside the fridge.
She pushed away from the countertop and crossed the room to him. "I want you to know how much I appreciate you letting me stay here. It's been-"
Reese saw anger flash in his eyes a split second before he spoke. "If you got all dolled up to dump me, you could've saved yourself the bother."
Damn. Reese mentally kicked herself. She was handling this all wrong. "That's not at all where I was headed."
He stared at her for a long time before speaking. "Then what?"
"That you’re the sexiest man I’ve ever seen and not only that, you're probably one of the best people I've ever known. Not many people are genuinely good, but you are. I want you ̶ honestly more than is probably wise and not because the sex is so addictive—although it is, but because with you it's not just sex. I told you that I don't get involved—not emotionally, but you blew down all my defenses with a single breath, and I don't have any left, and it scares the hell out of me because you could annihilate me."
Mathias set his bottle on the counter and straightened. The movement brought them closer, so close she could feel the heat from his body. He put a hand behind her head, letting his fingers tighten a bit in her hair. "I’d never hurt you. It’s a given that I want you, but not just for a quick roll in the hay. I want more, too, and I think I can be more—that we can be more. I’d like you to give us a chance."
"Well, here I am." She kept her eyes on his as she stepped back, peeled her dress down her body and let it drop to the floor around her feet.
There wasn't a force on the planet strong enough to stop his eyes from following the path of that bit of material as she worked it down her body. Breasts that were firm and graced with the loveliest nipples he’d ever seen made his fingers tingle to touch. But he held firm and allowed only his eyes to touch her flesh, continuing the trek down her body.
When he reached the junction of her thighs, his knees damn near went weak. Smooth and completely hairless, her sex drew him like the proverbial bee to honey.
"This is your one chance to say no because if you don’t run in the next two seconds, I’m going to put my hands and mouth all over you."
"Seeing is believing."
That’s all the encouragement it took for him to reach out, grab her behind the neck and pull her to meet his lips. His free hand moved to her breast, thumb tracking over her nipple and feeling it harden.
