“Bingo.” His fingers formed a gun. He cocked his thumb, firing at her.
“Riker said Daddy tried to buy off his dad. When James wouldn’t go for it, Daddy threatened him. Daddy vehemently denies doing it.”
“Of course he does.”
She shook her head. “Do you really think Daddy would outright lie to me?”
Graham shrugged. “I wouldn’t put it past him. His empire is on the line. Think about it. Daddy didn’t get where he is by playing nice.”
The truth of Graham’s words hit home.
“He used his illness to play on your sympathies, to manipulate you into moving back home so he and Mama could keep their thumbs on you.”
“No, I came back of my own accord because I was worried about Daddy.”
He gave her a checkmate look. “Sure you did.”
“It’s true. I’m looking for my own place now.”
He cocked an eyebrow, his eyes radiating a sarcastic amusement. “You mean during the short period of time before marrying Finley?”
“I see your point.”
“Look, all I’m saying here is that this slander article about Riker, the supposed girlfriend appearing out of nowhere. It’s got Mama’s name written all over it. She probably paid that girl to say all of those things.”
Hearing it put so bluntly, she recognized the truth of his words. She had to laugh to keep from crying as she slapped her forehead with her palm. “You’re right, I have been sooo gullible.” She looked at her older brother, feeling like she was seeing him for the first time. “I’m so sorry about Holly.” She shook her head. “You seem so content with your life.”
“I am, for the most part.” He spread his hands. “Don’t get me wrong. I love Jenna. She’s the perfect companion for my political aspirations. Jenna and I understand each other.” He squared his jaw. “And you’d better believe I’m going to be the best dang senator this state has ever seen.” His eyes grew wistful. “But not a day goes by that I don’t wonder what my life would’ve been like had I fought harder—chosen my own path.”
She jerked. “What did you say?”
“Not a day goes by—”
“No, about the path.”
“Oh, I wonder how different my life would’ve been had I chosen my own path.”
A shaft of light broke through the wall of confusion inside her. That’s what this was all about, choosing her own path. Warmth spread through her body, bolstering her courage.
He shook his head. “Holly was weak. She took the payoff because she believed Mama’s drivel about how she’d drag me down and ruin my life.” He paused. “Had Holly been stronger …“ he pressed his lips together “… had I been stronger …” He shook his head. “I dunno. Who knows what would have happened?” An ironic smile touched his lips. “It’s too late for me. My path is set. But you … you’re at a crossroads, sis.” He scooted back his chair and stood, his eyes cutting into hers. “At the end of the day, it’s your decision. I just wanted to give you something to think about.” He got a few steps away, then turned. “Oh, I almost forgot. In case you wanna make a run for it, I’ve got your Bimmer gassed up and ready to go. It’s parked right out front. The keys are in the ignition.” He saluted. “Here’s hoping you make the right choice.”
22
“There’s something I need to say to all of you,” Emerson said as she charged into the living room. She stopped short when she saw the dozen or more reporters and cameras.
Daddy stepped up to her, a genteel smile on his face. “Here’s the lady of the hour.”
“I really need to talk to you,” Emerson said in a low tone.
“There’ll be plenty of time to talk afterwards, sugar bug.” He put his hand on the small of her back and maneuvered her over to a wingback chair beside where Finley was sitting.
“Daddy, I need to talk to you.”
“Zip it,” he growled, eyes flashing with irritation as he practically shoved her into the chair.
She bristled, feeling like she’d gotten a glimpse of the real man behind the façade.
A woman stepped up and attached a mini microphone to her collar.
Ethan strode to the center and held up a hand. A hushed excitement came over the room. He looked at the reporters. “Thanks so much for coming out this afternoon. My daughter Emerson and Finley Landers have an important announcement.”
Emerson’s heart was pumping so hard it felt like it would claw out of her chest. Finley reached for her hand, a radiant expression on his face. She looked at Fiona and Kenton Landers who were wearing practiced smiles for the camera—the perfect society couple, blissfully happy with each other and the announcement. She looked at her mama, sitting so proud and beautiful, not a hair out of place. Her eyes went to Graham who looked every bit the successful future senator. He gave her a nearly imperceptible nod that said, You’ve got this. Her eyes settled on Daddy. His broad shoulders were held high like they could bear the weight of the world. A lump formed in her throat. She was most disappointed in him. His eyes met hers, and she thought she caught a trace of sadness in them. Maybe he’d started out idealistic and hopeful, wanting to do the right thing. But as time wore on and the pressure got too great, he caved. In a way, she felt sorry for him. Mostly, however, she didn’t want to become him.
Ethan turned and nodded at Finley to begin before striding over to sit beside Caroline.
Finley leaned closer to her and looked into the camera. His voice rang out loud and clear. “Today’s a wonderful day.” He smiled brightly, the picture of the doting fiancé. “Emerson Stein, my childhood friend, the love of my life has agreed to become my wife. I couldn’t be happier.”
Emerson looked at the reporters, could tell the news wasn’t a surprise. They’d been hearing rumors of the engagement for months now. Finley said a few trite comments about how devoted to one another they were. A couple minutes later, she realized all eyes were on her.
“Say something, dear,” Caroline prompted through gritted teeth.
She’d been a bundle of nerves a few seconds ago, but now everything was crystal clear. “Oh, it’s my turn to speak now?” She chuckled dryly. She looked at her daddy. “I thought I was supposed to zip it and just smile and look pretty for the camera.” She faced the reporters. “What was the question?” She waved a hand, chuckling. “Oh, never mind. It doesn’t matter. I’m going off script for this one.”
This brought a few chortles from the reporters.
She glanced at Daddy whose face was ashen. “Just remember. I tried to do this in private.” She pulled her hand away from Finley’s. “Finley and I are not getting married.”
Murmurs rustled through the group. She looked at her daddy and Kenton. “Shame on you for treating your kids like property that you can buy and trade at will. Whatever you ultimately decide about your merger has no bearing on me and Finley.” She smiled. “Daddy, you’re an incredible man. You made this ranch successful, and I believe you can do it again. Or, if that’s not in the cards, you’ll find another path. The choice is yours.” She looked at Finley. “Even though I’m ticked at you right now, you’ve been a good friend to me over the years.” She gave him an apologetic look. “As I told you earlier, it wouldn’t be fair for me to marry you when I’m in love with someone else.”
Chatter erupted amongst the reporters. “Would that someone be Riker Dylan?” a female reporter asked.
“Yes, that’s exactly who I’m talking about,” Emerson said, looking straight into the cameras.
Boy, that felt good. Like a weight had been lifted off her chest.
This started a barrage of questions.
“Is it true that you’ve been barrel racing under the name of Starr Andrews?” a man in the front asked.
“Yes.”
“Will you continue?”
She smiled. “Absolutely. Now that the cat’s out of the bag, I’ll race under my own name, attend larger rodeos.”
“What about Riker’s girlfriend?”
She
grunted. “Don’t believe everything you read in the tabloids, folks.”
“How do you think these events will affect your brother’s bid for the senate?”
She looked at Graham, understanding flowing between them. She tipped her head. “You know what? I’ll let Graham answer that question.” She removed her microphone and placed it in the chair. “I’ve got somewhere I need to be.”
She darted up the stairs to her room and grabbed her purse. On impulse, she also grabbed the monkey, then headed back out. Mama caught her just before she got out the front door. “How could you do this to us?” she uttered, tears welling in her eyes. She grabbed Emerson’s arm. “You’re going back in there and telling those reporters this has all been a terrible misunderstanding.”
“No, I’m not.”
Caroline slapped her across the face. “I said now!” Her eyes had a crazed look.
Emerson drew back holding her cheek. “You know what, Mama? I feel sorry for you. You’re a spider, spinning your little web, but the days of you manipulating me are over. You got that?” she snapped. “I’m your daughter, not your minion.”
She opened the door and rushed out, feeling a burst of cool air against her face. She stopped. Confusion whirled over her when she didn’t see the BMW parked where it should’ve been.
Then she saw him.
Miracle number three. A bubble of joy burst over her as she laughed. Riker was on his bike, waiting for her. “How?” she sputtered, as she stepped up to him.
A lopsided grin tugged at his lips. “Let’s just say your older brother’s full of surprises.”
She laughed, grateful tears glistening in her eyes. “Graham set all this up?” She shook her head. “He was so sure I’d make the right choice.”
“He told me he had no doubt.” His eyes twinkled in amusement. “I see you’ve brought that blasted monkey.” He pulled a face. “Are we always gonna have a monkey between us?”
She laughed. “Better a monkey between us than a monkey on my back.” She stepped closer, cupping his cheek. “I’m so sorry I didn’t believe you.”
“Do you believe me now?”
As she peered into his crystal blue eyes she couldn’t help but feel like she’d been given the keys to the world—the chance to love was the greatest gift of all. “If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be out here.”
A dazzling smile broke over his lips. “That’s all I needed to hear. All is forgiven.”
“I love you,” she uttered.
“That’s good, because I love you too.”
Their lips touched sending electricity zinging through her. He pulled her closer to deepen the kiss. She heard movement, realized the reporters were coming through the front door. Her eyes widened. “Uh, oh.”
He handed her the helmet. “Hurry, up. Get on.”
In a flurry, she shoved the helmet over her head and hopped on. She slid her purse strap over her head so it wouldn’t fall off, then placed one arm around his waist, holding the monkey with the other. He started the engine.
On a whim, she threw the monkey into the crowd of unsuspecting reporters and leaned into Riker, sliding her other arm around his waist.
“Where are we headed first?” he yelled.
She laughed, a feeling of exultation overtaking her. “Wherever the path takes us.”
Epilogue
One month later …
Emerson gripped the reins as she looked down the short entrance path leading to the gate of the arena, mentally preparing herself for the ride. “We’ve got this, girl,” she said to Clover as she patted her mane. “Let’s do it.” She leaned forward, squeezed her legs against Clover’s flanks, and gave the voice command, Hee-yaw!
They charged forward, adrenaline pulsing through Emerson’s veins. The roar of the crowd got drowned out by the sound of Clover’s hoofs against the dirt as they rounded the barrels—one, two, three, then back through the gate where Riker was waiting. The large, proud smile on his handsome face was almost more gratifying than the ride. He jumped, punching a fist in the air. “Touchdown!”
She laughed. “I believe you’re confusing your sports.”
He caught her with a smoldering look that made her wish they were alone so she could get lost in the feel of his strong arms and intoxicating lips. “No, you really scored, regardless of how you slice it. That was an excellent ride.”
“My best time yet!” she agreed, feeling a burst of pride.
A lopsided grin slid over his lips causing her heartbeat to bump up a few notches. She wondered if she’d ever grow immune to this incredible attraction that sparked through her whenever Riker was near. “You keep riding like this, and we’ll have to enter you in larger rodeos.”
“Yes!” she exclaimed joyously. “That’s the plan.” She dismounted the horse and rubbed a hand over Clover’s neck. “Great ride, girl. You’re the real champ.”
Riker laughed, shaking his head in admiration. “And you’re humble too. Here, let me help you get Clover cooled down and put in the trailer.”
“Thanks, Gary’s going to take Clover back to the ranch for us.” She’d asked Gary to bring Clover to the rodeo, wondering if her parents might give him flack about it. Luckily, they hadn’t.
A few minutes later, after the task was done, Riker motioned with his head. “Come here.”
She bridged the distance between them with two quick steps as his arms slid around her waist, pulling her closer.
His eyes roved over her face like he was taking in every inch of her. “Have I told you today how much I love you?”
Warmth cloaked over her as her lips curved in a smile. “Yes, but I love hearing it again.”
“I love you,” he uttered, his eyes turning to intense pools of deep blue. “This past month has been incredible.”
“Yes, it has,” she agreed. They went to Chattanooga and happily discovered that the city had much to offer—a walking bridge, aquarium, museums, Civil War History, and the best onion rings and fried shrimp she’d ever tasted. The highlight had been going on a riverboat cruise and dancing underneath the stars. Emerson was fast learning that it really didn’t matter what she and Riker did, so long as they did it together. Every day was a fun, new adventure. The only dark spot in her otherwise sunny life was her parents.
Since the engagement fiasco, Emerson had only been back to the ranch once to collect her things so she could move into her new apartment. She’d left a message with the housekeeper, Angelica, beforehand letting her parents know what day and time she’d be there, but her parents were conveniently gone when she stopped by. At first, the absence of her parents was refreshing. Emerson told herself that they needed space for the wounds to heal. Every day, she’d promise herself that she’d go visit them in the next couple of days. However, as more time passed, the harder it became to wrap her head around going. The tables were now turned. Riker had been hounding her to take the first step in resolving the rift. Admittedly, it was something she would eventually have to do, but she wasn’t ready yet. It was all still too fresh.
Graham had been the biggest surprise of all. She’d never forget his role in helping her to see things clearly. Things could’ve turned out so differently had he not told her his story. She and Riker had gone out to dinner with Graham and Jenna a couple of times during the past few weeks. For the first time since they were kids, Emerson felt like they had a genuine relationship. It was wonderful.
“So, are you hungry?” Riker asked, interrupting her thoughts.
A smile broke over her lips. “A little. Where do you want to go?”
His lips formed a straight line as he mulled it over. “How about the concession stand?”
She wrinkled her nose. “I thought we were going to a restaurant.”
“We can … if you want. I have to admit though. A hamburger and nachos sounds really good right now.”
Not what she would’ve chosen, but she was flexible. “Okay.”
He leaned forward. “First, this,” he said huskily as his lips
came down on hers. Thrills circled down her spine as their lips moved together. He dipped her back, deepening the kiss. A groan rose in her throat as she threaded her fingers through his hair, welcoming the fire that sizzled through her veins.
She heard a throat clearing and would’ve ignored it had Riker not pulled back and stood her up straight. Riker’s face registered surprise. She followed his trail of vision.
“Daddy,” she breathed, blinking fast. “What’re you doing here?”
Ethan shoved his hands in his pockets, an awkward smile stretching over his lips. “Hey, cupcake. That was an amazing ride. I had no idea you were such a good barrel racer.”
Her daddy came here to watch her? Okay, not what she would’ve expected. She glanced at Riker, who gave her an encouraging nod.
“Thanks,” she said tightly. Her brows furrowed. “What’re you doing here?”
He shuffled his boots in the dirt. “Can I talk to you for a few minutes?” He looked at Riker. “Alone.”
Emerson loved her daddy, but didn’t trust him any farther than she could throw him. She lifted her chin, eyes meeting his. “Whatever you have to say can be said in front of Riker.”
“It’s okay,” Riker said quickly. “I can give you a minute or so alone.”
She cocked her head. “Are you sure?”
A reassuring smile spread over Riker’s lips. “Yeah. I think it’ll be good for the two of you to talk.” His arm encircled her waist as he kissed her on the cheek. “I think I’ll head over to the concession stand. See you in a few minutes.”
“Thanks,” Ethan said, offering a curt nod.
What had Daddy come to talk to her about? The ranch? Her gut twisted. She’d worried about what would happen to the business if Kenton refused to go through with the merger. She’d combed the Internet, searching for information, but she couldn’t find anything. Emerson wasn’t sure if that was good or bad.
She folded her arms over her chest, waiting for Daddy to begin the conversation. He looked her in the eye. “I wanted to tell you how sorry I am for everything that happened.”
The Hometown Groom Page 17
