by Sable Hunter
Predestined
Nathan McCoy’s Story
Sable Hunter
Contents
Untitled
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18
Chapter 19
About the Author
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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events or locales is entirely coincidental.
PREDESTINED
All rights reserved.
Copyright 2021 © Sable Hunter
Cover: JRA Stevens for Down Write Nuts
Formatting: Down Write Nuts
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This book contains material protected under International and Federal Copyright Laws and Treaties. Any unauthorized reprint or use of this material is prohibited. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system without express written permission from the author / publisher.
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As the youngest of the Tebow McCoy’s, Nathan has his hands full meeting all of his older brothers’ expectations. As far as he can tell, the family already has his life mapped out for him. Live on the ranch, run the cattle business, and keep the home fires burning. The only problem is that Nathan wants more. He wants to be his own man, live his own life on his own terms. A clash of the Titans is inevitable.
Needing to cut the lead ropes, Nathan rebels against the plans his brothers have for him and decides to set out on his own. His dreams are haunting him. He knows there is something special waiting for him just over the horizon.
Since his near-death experience so long ago, Nathan keeps one boot on solid ground…but he can’t keep from sensing things, catching a glimpse of what other folks can’t see. His dreams tend to reveal truths before their time. For most, this would be a blessing. For him, the knowing can be burden. Feeling corralled, he longs to break away, to follow the winds of destiny wherever they may lead. What might surprise Nathan…is to find his destiny might not be a place, but a person.
Clare Connelly.
The ultimate free-spirit, Clare lives on a mountain top with a pet bear for company. A vision of ethereal beauty, she is a boho-princess who can’t abide boundaries. She intends to live to the fullest, to make each day count, to trip the light fantastic. Life is too short and tomorrow too uncertain to waste a moment.
From across the miles, the hearts of these two vagabond spirits call to one another. The cowboy and the gypsy. When they meet, all bets are off. The possibilities for love…are endless.
Chapter 1
Greeley Stampede – Greeley, Colorado
“Up next in our saddle bronc riding competition is a young Texan by the name of Nathan McCoy. Nathan is ranked seventh on the circuit with a total of 9,842 points. Lucky for us, unlucky for him, Nathan has drawn Steamboat II. Named after one of the most famous bucking horses of all times, our Steamboat has lived up to the hype. If Mr. McCoy rides this monster today, he’ll be the first cowboy to do so.”
As the announcer’s voice echoed through the stands, a young woman high in the nosebleed seats raised a pair of binoculars to her eyes. Focusing on the gates across the arena, she held her breath as Nathan gave the signal and the gatekeeper pulled the rope. From her vantage point, Clare could see the big red roan erupt from the chute like his hooves were on springs. Nathan raised his arm in the air, his shirt molding the defined muscles of his chest. “Ride ‘em, cowboy,” she whispered as her heart pounded at the sight. He was beautiful, just exactly as she knew he would be.
Holding her breath, she watched as the 1500-pound horse spun and bucked, spinning, and kicking. Hitting the ground with all four hooves, the bronc launched himself into the air and pitched his head back hard. This signature move had almost killed a couple of riders who’d positioned themselves too far over the horse’s neck. Yet, Nathan stayed on.
Zooming in with her phone, she captured the moments. Later, she’d replay them again and again, capturing in amber the memory of seeing him in the flesh. For now, she watched Nathan as closely as she could, memorizing his handsome face.
To the announcer’s and the crowd’s amazement, Nathan stayed on – his body responding to the horse so smoothly it was almost like they were connected, with him knowing what the next move would be before the animal knew.
“Look at that, rodeo fans!” Eight seconds were up. “Steamboat is unridden no longer. This moves Nathan McCoy up to first place in the Stampede rankings. You have just seen the birth of a champion.”
As Nathan walked from the arena, Clare watched him go. Her gaze caressed his broad shoulders before moving down his body to admire the cut of his jeans. The man was built from head to toe. Placing a hand on her chest, she patted her errant heart. “Don’t fail me now. There are some things worth living for…and this is definitely one of them.”
Once he disappeared, she bowed her head and concentrated on her breathing. Climbing to this height had taken a lot out of her. She’d rest here for a few more moments before starting down. She’d seen what she came to see – it was time to go home.
…As the applause of the crowd faded, Nathan kept his eye on the scoreboard. When the number 88 appeared in bright red letters, he raised his hat high in the air in triumph. “Mission accomplished.” During the walk to where his trailer was parked, several other cowboys stopped him to offer their congratulations.
“Great going, McCoy. You’re going to be the one to beat.”
“Thanks. I was lucky.”
“More than luck, you were born under the right stars.” The envious man clapped Nathan on the shoulder. “I predict you’ll be one of the greats. You’re well on the road to All-Around Cowboy.”
As he thanked the men, Nathan was over the moon. Finally, he felt like he’d accomplished something on his own.
When he came near his truck, he could hear his phone ringing. Before he could unlock the door and reach it, the ringing stopped – only to start up again straight away. “Aron.” Nathan knew who it was before he could answer it. “What’s wrong?”
“I just wanted to hear your voice. How are you?”
“I’m good. I just won. A perfect ride on a horse they said couldn’t be ridden. I’ve got a shot at the championship.”
“Congratulations. I’m so proud of you.”
“Thanks.” Nathan could sense his brother’s turmoil. “There’s something you’re not telling me.”
“I just miss you, that’s all.”
Sensing something was wrong, but unsure of what it was – Nathan wanted answers. “What’s going on, Aron?”
“Oh, just family stuff. Ranch stuff. Nothing you need to be concerned about.”
Even with the distance, Nathan could feel trouble. Something was definitely off with his big brother. “I can’t help but be concerned. I love all of you.”
“We love you too, bud. Don’t pay no attention to me. I’m getting as bad as Jacob, and we all know
he’s a big old mother hen. You just continue on with your rodeoing. Show ‘em how it’s done.”
“All right, Aron. You take care of everybody, you hear?”
“Will do. Call me in a day or two.”
He agreed, knowing full well he wouldn’t be calling home. There wouldn’t be any use – he’d already be there. Nathan McCoy was headed to Texas.
A month later…
Holding on to the overhead brace, Nathan secured his footing. Repairing this old windmill was something he seemed to do twice a year. If it were up to him, they’d just tear the aging structure down and put up a new steel unit. Of course, it wasn’t up to him. Aron and Libby considered this windmill and the stock tank below to be a sacred spot. He wasn’t exactly sure why they felt that way – something about their courting days.
He still didn’t know what was up with Aron and Libby. They weren’t being forthcoming with whatever was bothering them. Nathan hesitated to delve into their issues any further than his normal senses would allow. Anytime he attempted to learn more by extra-sensory means, he usually regretted it. So - other than a faint sense of disquiet, it was just business as usual on Tebow. For Nathan, this meant working from sunup to sunset. No one could say he didn’t do his part. His brothers were all married with varying business interests. He was the only one whose life revolved completely around the ranch.
Taking a wrench, he tightened the bolts. As he worked, Nathan couldn’t prevent a feeling of disquiet from rising within him. He loved his home, he loved his family. Still, he couldn’t help but wonder what the future would’ve held for him if he’d stayed on the rodeo circuit. He’d pulled up stakes at the singular moment most cowboys only dream about. He’d been so close to making it big when he’d walked away from it all. Funny, he felt no real loss. His family came first – always.
Even though the sun set low on the horizon, the rays were blindingly bright. Feeling overheated, he blew out a breath and began to unbutton his shirt. Up this high, a cooling breeze was bound to come along sooner or later. From his elevated vantage point, Nathan could see much of Tebow Ranch spread out in all four directions. A feeling of pride and wellbeing swelled within him. This was his home. His legacy. Nathan knew he had much to be thankful for – and he was. There was nothing in the world he lacked…but he also longed to live life on his own terms.
As far into the future as he could now see, his life was mapped out for him by his family. No, there was no one holding a gun to his head and making him do anything. The only chains binding him to this life were ones of duty, obligation, and a deep devotion to those he loved. Yet here he was, almost twenty-one years old with no plans except for what he’d always known. Sometimes the notion didn’t bother him so much. He stayed busy with his work and what little social life he had time for. There were other times, however, when he couldn’t help but question the hold his family had on his life. Every man wanted to make his own choices in life, make his own mistakes – and he was no different.
For now, he’d bide his time. Especially since he had this gut feeling something was amiss. Soon, however, he needed to make some serious decisions about his future.
“Wow. Look at you. Yum.”
The sound of a sultry female voice nearly caused Nathan to lose his hand hold. He jerked his head around so hard and fast, he was lucky he didn’t pull a crick in his neck. To his happy surprise, three of the local babes were lounging on the edge of the stock tank, big smiles on their faces.
“Hey, girls. How’s it going?”
“Looking pretty good from down here, that’s for sure.” Dark haired Ashlyn Cramer gave Nathan a long, appreciative stare. “Dahlia, who does he remind you of?”
The curvy blonde with freckles on her nose blushed prettily. “Oh, I don’t know. Sam Heughan from Outlander, maybe? Or Trevor Donovan from 90210.”
“Nah.” Amelia Crowley spoke up, giving Nathan a wink. “I say Channing Tatum. Nathan’s built. His muscles have muscles.” She licked her plump pink lips. “Absolutely delish.”
“I can hear you, you know.” Nathan grinned, eating up the feminine attention. Since Kirsten moved away, he dated rarely. He wouldn’t say he was starved for female company, but he could use a snack every once in a while.
“Oh, we know,” Ashlyn said with mischief in her voice. “Are you about through, hot stuff?”
“Oh, yea. I’m finishing up.” He was almost done and if he hurried, he could be off this ladder and in good company in short order. “Be with you girls in a jiffy.”
“When are you returning to the rodeo circuit?” Dahlia asked with admiration in her eyes. “You were the sexiest bronc rider out there.”
“Uh. I don’t know.” Her question set off a wave of longing in his heart. “It was fun though.”
“I bet.” Amelia trailed her hand in the water of the stock tank. “Do you like to skinny dip, Nathan?”
The suggestion caused Nathan to lose his balance. In a mad scramble to find his footing, he ended up swinging from one of the connecting rods. While he was regaining his composure, he missed seeing one of his brothers ride up.
“Smooth move, Grace.”
Nathan closed his eyes. Dammit. “I’m fine, Noah. Thanks for asking.”
Noah tipped his hat toward the girls. “Ladies.”
Dropping to the ground, his eyes met those of Amelia. “Since it’s quitting time, we thought we’d take a dip in the stock tank.” As he spoke, he gave each girl a meaningful look and a wink.
“Ah, all right. Heck.” The disappointment in Noah’s voice told Nathan his brother wanted something but hesitated to ask.
“What do you need?”
“Nah, you’re busy.” Sitting atop his horse, Noah’s hands were crossed on the saddle horn. “I’ll take care of it.”
Nathan knew Blue, Noah’s little girl, hadn’t been feeling well. “No, you need to get home to Skye and the baby. I can handle whatever needs doing.” A pang of regret hit him when he heard the muted moans of regret voiced by his visitors.
“Thanks.” Noah let out a relieved breath. “There’s an order of rye grass ready to be picked up from the feed store and we’re going to need it first thing in the morning.”
“Can’t it wait, Mr. McCoy?” Ashlyn asked while fluttering her eyelashes at Noah.
Nathan shook his head. “There’s work to be done. However…” He was about to suggest they meet at the DQ for ice cream when Noah added further instructions.
“One of our prize cows should calve tonight. If you don’t mind, you probably should bed down in the barn.”
“Wow, looks like you’re booked for the night.” Amelia gave him a pointed look. “Want some company?”
Nathan was just about to turn down the tempting offer when Noah spoke up to nix the notion. “Not a good idea. This will need his full attention and the vet might have to come at any time.”
Seeing the pitying looks the girls gave him, he could have cheerfully rung his brothers neck. “Sorry.” He told the girls.
“Sure.” Ashlyn gave him a wave as they walked away. “Maybe next time.”
“Yea, maybe next time.” As soon as they were gone, a slightly irritated Nathan looked at his brother. “Killjoy. I seem to remember you and Harper spending some time together in the barn when you were young.”
“Oh, I’m still young. But there’s a time for everything and now’s the time to take care of business.”
“I know and I was about to turn them down when you spoke up. I’m not a damn kid, you know. And I don’t appreciate you treating me like one.” Before Noah could comment, Nathan continued. “A couple of weeks ago, Joseph panicked when I didn’t come home as soon as he expected.”
“I remember. What were you up to?”
Nathan grimaced. “Nothing earthshattering. I went for a moonlight hike at Lost Maples State Park. Thankfully, I arrived home before he notified the police.”
“We worry about you, Nate. That’s all.”
“I know,” Nathan muttered as h
e dug in his pocket for the truck key. “Oh, damn.” He pulled out an extra key. “Isaac asked me to pick up his motorcycle from Jonah’s shop tonight.”
“Well, you’d better hurry if you’re going to get it all done.” Noah didn’t blink an eye as he rode away.
“Gee, thanks.” Donning his Stetson, Nathan sighed as he walked past the stock tank. “And to think, I could’ve been skinny dipping about now...”
Later that night…
Keeping an eye on the restless bovine, Nathan sat on a hay bale polishing tack. This particular animal was a valuable one, a registered Beefmaster. He was afraid to go to sleep, the vet might need to be called at any minute. Occasionally, he’d stop to check his phone. One of his high school friends was putting together a dirt bike expedition and he wanted to be included. Stifling a yawn, he shook his head. If he went to sleep, he might miss the prized cow’s big moment. All he needed was to doze off and be the cause of a problem birth.
Checking the time, Nathan saw it was only eleven p.m. Since leaving the windmill he’d picked up the seed in Kerrville, then stopped at Callan’s Garage to bring Isaac’s Harley home. While he was there, he noticed a classic 1968 Ford mustang that Jonah was restoring. Black as night and sweet as sin. Damn…what he wouldn’t give to own something so cool. When he’d asked the mechanic what he would sell it for, Jonah told him it was already claimed. One of these days, he wanted one of those beauties for himself.
A soft whinny from one of the stalls caught his attention. “Buck?” He rose to check on his horse. “You knew I was in here, didn’t you?” Another affectionate snort from the stallion brought a laugh to Nathan’s lips. “You want a nugget, I bet.” He walked to the storeroom to find the horses a treat. On his way back to Buck, he stopped to give each one a nugget or two. When he came to his own mount, he fed him as he scratched the big horse between the ears. “Good, huh? We’ll go for a ride before I leave for the weekend.”
