The Rodeo Rider (Harlequin American Romance)

by Roxann Delaney

  Something changed in her eyes, but disappeared immediately. “Thank you, but I’ve been gone from the office for so long I’ll be loaded down with work when I return on Monday. I’ve already had calls about upcoming court dates, so I doubt I’ll have time to do things I’d like to do.”

  So attending a rodeo and watching him compete was something she would like to do? Considering her reaction to the offer to ride that he and Shawn had given her, he couldn’t believe she cared that much about sitting in an arena and watching him attempt to stay on the back of a bronc for eight seconds.

  “There will always be others,” he said, wondering if that really was true, at least for her. “If you have the time and want to go, that is.”

  “Of course I do. I keep thinking it might help, but so far, it hasn’t,” she admitted. “Maybe I’ll manage some time later this summer.”

  He should have been pleased. At least she was willing, or at least said she was. But he couldn’t find it in himself to feel positive about it. “Maybe you can.”

  When Michael and Beth joined them, Tanner was relieved. He spent a few minutes in conversation with them, and then was ready to call it a night. “I have an early morning tomorrow,” he told them all, “so I’ll say good night.”

  “So soon?” Beth asked, glancing at Jules.

  “Afraid so. Congratulations to both of you,” he told the newlyweds. “May the two of you enjoy many years together.” He turned to Jules, not sure what to say, but he did his best. “It was a real pleasure meeting you, darlin’. If you do make it to one of the rodeos, don’t hesitate to look me up.”

  Her smile instantly dimmed, and he knew she’d understood what he meant. He was convinced, finally, that this thing he had for her was going nowhere. He understood that, and he could live with it.

  But later, at home, when the big ranch house was quiet and everyone else had turned in for the night, he sat in the ranch office, his thoughts still on Jules. Maybe he shouldn’t have given up so quickly. He could have given in to those feelings he seemed to have for her—feelings that didn’t seem to want to go away, no matter what he did or thought. He suspected there was something there for her, too. Maybe he should give it one more try.

  If this thing between them lasted, he would be surprised, but other than having his hands full with Shawn, the ranch and bronc riding, there wasn’t another reason he shouldn’t give in and see where it took him. He doubted it would come to anything or last long. After all, most of his family—the people he cared the most about—had left him. In time, Jules would, too, but at least he knew that and wouldn’t be so disappointed when it happened.

  Was it worth the risk? Maybe. Did he want to try? He had to admit he did, even though he and Jules had very little in common. Maybe he should. But just how would he go about taking that risk now that she was back in Kansas?

  Chapter Six

  Tanner spied the exit off the interstate into the city and deftly made the turn.

  “Hey, we’re not supposed to get off here,” Shawn said. “This is Wichita. What’s going on?”

  Tanner glanced at him. “I’ve got a stop to make before we head on to Dodge City,” he replied, his attention on the traffic.

  “Where are we going?”

  Tanner grinned. “Well, now, I figure it’s going to get a little boring for you, sitting in the stands.”

  “It’s never boring for me when you’re competing.”

  Tanner could almost hear a pout in his voice. Shawn had been moody all week, ever since Jules had told them goodbye. He’d seemed like a different kid while she was at Beth’s, but his often seen smile during that time had once again been replaced by a scowl. Nearly fifteen, Shawn still had a heap of growing up to do.

  “So tell me—why’d you take that exit?” Shawn asked again.

  Tanner chuckled, thinking of the plan he’d cooked up. He’d either win or lose, but at least he wouldn’t be left wondering. “A diversionary tactic.”

  “Huh?”

  He glanced at his nephew. “You’ll see.” Watching street signs, he turned left. A few blocks later, in the midst of a commercial area, he took a right.

  “Are you sure you know where you’re going?”

  “I hope so.” At last he saw what he was looking for and pulled into the parking lot of an impressive office building. He got out and reached behind the seat, pulling out a shopping bag.

  “What’s that?”

  Tanner smiled slightly. “A peace offering. Or a bribe. Depends on how you look at it.”

  Shawn regarded him with more interest. “For who?”

  “Can’t say.” Tanner pulled his hat a little lower over his eyes. If his plan didn’t work, he didn’t want Shawn to be disappointed. “Just wish me luck.”

  Shawn slumped in the seat and stared at the dashboard. “Yeah.”

  With a sigh of frustration and a shake of his head, Tanner climbed out of the truck and started for the office building. The walk seemed like miles, and he could imagine how a condemned man felt on his way to the chair. The hot summer sun beat down on his back and shoulders, intensifying his feeling of dread. His palms were damp as he pulled open the heavy door and stepped into the cool, quiet lobby, looking around for a suite number. By asking Beth, who’d just returned from her honeymoon, he’d learned the office was located on the first floor, suite three. Time seemed to stand still as he searched the doors for a number. Mouth dry, he found the office and strode across the tile floor, the sound of his boot heels echoing off the walls.

  Dead man walking. He shook his head to rid it of the notion. This wasn’t a matter of life and death, but he was taking a risk. He hoped his pride was ready for a beating, just in case.

  Taking a deep breath, he opened the office door and stepped inside.

  Jules, her hands full of papers, was talking to a young woman seated behind a desk. She didn’t seem to notice that he’d entered, and he took the moment to observe her. Polished and professional in a neatly tailored business suit, her hair in a twist at the back of her head, she was the epitome of a lady lawyer.

  The woman at the desk looked up at him with a smile. “Hello. Can I help you with something?”

  He shifted from one foot to the other, unable to think of what to say. “I…uh…”

  Jules looked up, her eyes wide. Her mouth opened and her hand flew to her chest. “Tanner!”

  He came to his senses and touched the brim of his hat. “Afternoon, darlin’.”

  Jules glanced down at the other woman—her secretary, no doubt—and back up again. “What are you doing here?”

  Clearing his throat, he took a step forward. “Shawn and I are on our way to Dodge City, and I wanted to bring you a little something.” He pulled the bag from under his arm and held it out.

  Jules put the papers down and moved out from behind the desk. She stopped in front of him, her smile wobbly. “What is it?” She opened the bag and peered inside. Reaching in, she pulled out the black hat with the hammered silver band and turquoise stone. When she looked up at him, her eyes were misty. “Oh, Tanner.”

  “Here.” He took it from her. To his surprise, his hands shook as he placed it on her head. The fit was a little snug.

  “It’s because my hair is pinned up.” Her soft voice sounded thick with emotion. She smiled at him and turned around. “What do you think, Deb?”

  The young woman ran an appraising eye over her and grinned. “Well, I can’t say it goes with the outfit. On the other hand, you look terrific. It’s a whole new you.”

  Jules turned back to him, her eyes shining. “Yes, it is. Thank you, Tanner. I don’t know where I’m going to wear it, though.”

  This wasn’t the place to talk. “Is that your office?” he asked, indicating an open door to her left.

  She nodded, and he led her in that direction. Before going in, he turned to the secretary. “We’ll only be a minute.”

  “I’m sorry, Tanner,” Jules said when he’d closed the door behind them. “I don�
��t know what’s come over me.” She took off the hat and held it in her hand, fingering the silver band. “This is just such a surprise. I didn’t expect to see you again.”

  When she looked up, he couldn’t read what was in her eyes. “Shawn and I are on our way to Dodge City. I’m entering the rodeo and I’ll be riding tonight.”

  “I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you.” Her soft smile seemed almost wistful.

  Her encouragement nudged him to continue. “No, darlin’, that’s not why I’m here.” The look in her eyes was questioning. “I’m inviting you to come along with us for the rest of the weekend. We’ve reserved rooms at a local motel. Shawn can bunk with me.”

  A kaleidoscope of emotions crossed her face. “Oh, Tanner, I can’t.”

  This could be the deciding moment. Either she was willing to see where this would lead, as he was, or she wasn’t. Almost afraid of the outcome, he hesitated before asking, “Why not?”

  “I haven’t had enough time to get caught up from my vacation. I’m so far behind. Deb and I were just going over things I have to do when you walked in. I even had lunch in my office.” She gestured to a fast-food sack in the trash. “I have appointments with clients all afternoon. I can’t cancel them.”

  He felt a stab of disappointment, but it didn’t dampen his determination. “How ’bout tomorrow?”

  She shook her head. “I have to be in court first thing in the morning. I’m sorry. I really would like to go with you.”

  He stared at her, hope rising. “Yeah?”

  She smiled in return, a little sadly, but a smile. “Yeah.”

  “Okay,” he said, trying to think of an alternative. “What time do you finish up tomorrow? Can you come when you’re done?”

  “Late tomorrow, maybe,” she said, her brow wrinkled in thought. “Yes, I think I can. I could drive out.”

  “No, darlin’. I’ll come back and get you.” There was too much danger of something happening to keep her from making the drive. “Give me directions to where you live. I’ll pick you up sometime after seven.”

  “But what if you can’t get away? If you’re riding?”

  Before he could answer, there was a soft rap on the door and her secretary stuck her head in. “Mr. Dayton is here.”

  Jules gave Tanner a pleading glance, before answering, “I’ll be right with him, Deb.”

  When the woman was gone, he took her hat from her hand and placed it on her head again, giving the crown a tap. “Don’t worry about a thing, darlin’. And get rid of those pins in your hair.”

  IT WAS AFTER SEVEN the next evening when Jules saw Tanner’s familiar black pickup pull into the parking lot of her apartment complex. She watched him climb out, her heart giving a predictable lurch, and she reminded herself not to let this get out of control. She meant what she’d told Beth. They really weren’t suited to each other. But she couldn’t deny herself some time with him. If nothing else, it would prove she was right.

  Not wanting to keep him waiting, she went to the bedroom for her suitcase. She was checking to make sure everything was turned off when she heard the knock on her door. She opened it to the most tantalizing smile she’d ever seen.

  He stood, leaning against the doorjamb, one booted foot crossed over the other. “Evening, darlin’.”

  If she wasn’t careful, she’d lose her heart just at the sight of him. “I’d say it’s more like ‘Night, darlin’,’” she teased, opening the door wider.

  Grinning, he shoved away from the door and ambled in. “Do you open your door to just anybody?”

  “I knew it was you,” she said over her shoulder as she grabbed a jacket. “I saw you pull up.”

  “I should hope so.” He glanced around her apartment. “Shoot, Jules, this is more class than I’ve seen in a long time.” His smile had changed to a slight frown when he turned to look at her. “You’re used to the best, aren’t you?”

  “It’s only me here, Tanner,” she said softly, laying a hand on his arm. “I make a decent living, and I’m the only one I have to spend it on. Besides, I’m a great bargain shopper. You should see me in action.” Bending to grab her bag, she felt him step up behind her.

  He took the piece of designer luggage from her and she turned, their gazes locking. Her heart thumped until he finally spoke. “Shawn’s waiting out in the truck.”

  She tore her gaze away and started for the door. “Good. I’ve missed him.”

  She saw him hesitate before a slow, lazy smile spread over his face. “He’s missed you, too, darlin’.”

  He followed her out of the apartment and waited while she locked the door behind her. As they made their way down to the parking lot, she couldn’t think of anything to say and was glad Shawn would be along to fill the silence. It would be almost three hours before they reached Dodge City.

  Shawn beamed at her when they reached the truck. “Jules! Hey, this is great!” He climbed out of the truck and waited until she’d settled inside before getting back in again. “Boy, am I glad to see you!”

  She soaked up the adoration. She’d have to remember this when she got to feeling down. Without a doubt, she’d never forget his welcoming smile.

  Tanner chuckled softly and climbed into the truck on the other side. “Don’t hold back, Shawn. Let Jules know you’re glad to see her.”

  Shawn ducked his head, a sheepish grin visible under his hat. “Sorry, Jules. I’m just happy you decided to come with us.”

  Jules laughed, thinking of the day before when Tanner had given her the hat. “You should have seen how surprised I was yesterday when Tanner walked into my office. If I could have come with you then, I would have.” She turned to Tanner, acutely aware of him next to her. “It’s a long drive. Are you sure you aren’t too tired?”

  Shawn answered for him. “No problem. We slept in late this morning. I guess he figured it might be a late night. And he doesn’t need a lot of sleep. I’ve seen him—”

  “Shawn?” Tanner said.

  “Yeah?”

  “You’re gonna tire us all out real soon. Jules will be with us all weekend.”

  “Yeah, I know,” Shawn continued as if he hadn’t heard a word. “Did Uncle Tanner tell you he’s in first place?”

  “Tanner, that’s wonderful!”

  He shook his head. “We have a saying in our family, don’t we, Shawn?”

  The teenager slouched in the seat next to her, his chin sinking to his chest. “Uh-huh.”

  She looked from one to the other. “What is it?”

  “‘Don’t spend your prize money before the last ride,’” Tanner answered when Shawn didn’t.

  Jules couldn’t help but like the man. Sensible, kind, hardworking. What more could a woman ask for?

  A man who doesn’t risk his life on a bucking horse every weekend.

  “Can I tell her about your ride?” Shawn asked before she could pay any attention to the nagging thought.

  Tanner gave her a sidelong look. “That’s up to her.”

  When Jules said she’d be delighted to hear about Tanner’s ride, Shawn came to life again. Aided by Tanner, Shawn gave a blow-by-blow account of the high-scoring ride and how it had given him a bye for the night.

  “He’s wasting his time in Prairie Circuit,” Shawn finished.

  Jules felt Tanner stiffen beside her. “I’m sorry,” she said, feeling like a fool, yet hoping to diffuse whatever was going on, “but what’s Prairie Circuit?”

  “It’s just rodeos around here,” Shawn explained. “Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska. All you have to do is take a look at his scores. He’s good enough for major PRCA.”

  “That’s enough, Shawn,” Tanner said. “Circuit’s good enough right now.”

  Shawn didn’t answer, and Jules felt the sudden tension between the two of them. “You’ll both have to educate me.”

  “It’s complicated,” Tanner answered.

  “So explain it.”

  “Maybe later.”

  They rode in silence for a whil
e, Jules wondering what it was about PRCA—whatever it was—and Prairie Circuit that could cause a problem between Tanner and Shawn. Tanner had asked for her help, but now he seemed unwilling to let her.

  “I’m sorry,” she said again, wondering if she’d made a mistake when she agreed to go to Dodge City with them.

  “For what?” Tanner asked, glancing at her, before focusing again on the highway ahead.

  Beside her, Shawn had fallen asleep and she felt safe to continue. “I didn’t mean to cause any trouble.”

  “You didn’t. The trouble was there before you.”

  “I might be able to help,” she offered.

  A soft smile eased the hard lines around his mouth. “You already have.”

  “At least tell me what the letters mean.”

  Tanner sighed. “PRCA is Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.”

  “And what you’re doing is different?”

  “You’re not going to let the subject drop, are you.”

  “Should I?”

  For a moment he didn’t speak. When he did, his hands gripped the steering wheel more tightly. “No, I guess you have every right to ask.”

  “If you don’t—”

  “No, it’s all right. I owe you some kind of explanation. In years past, I competed in bigger rodeos. PRCA rodeos. Even earlier this year I started out that way. But as the months went by, I realized that Shawn needed my attention. And I needed to make sure he wasn’t going to run off.”

  “He isn’t going to do that.”

  “Maybe not now, but…” He shook his head. “Riding the smaller circuit keeps me closer to home. Shawn can tag along, like he is now. I’m doing okay, and there’s a good chance I’ll have enough winnings to qualify for National Finals in Las Vegas.”

  “You’re doing everything you can to balance it all, aren’t you?”

  “I have to.” Before she could say or ask more, he changed topics. “We’re still a ways from Dodge. I don’t mind if you go to sleep.” She tried, unsuccessfully, to stifle a yawn. “Just lean up against me.”