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“In the first place, he isn’t e has already got my ranch There isn’t a whole lot more he can do to hurt me”

But there was, and Dallas knew it Severalso ownership of the feed store to Max Rutledge Sykes continued to front for hi about it to her grandfather, fully aware he’d be furious if he knew she orking—even indirectly—for Max Rutledge

One word froe and she would be out of work The chances of finding another full-time job in the area were virtually nil And her chances of convincing her grandfather to move to the city were just about the same

All those thoughts ran through herinstead, “Personally, I don’t want to find out what kind of trouble he et he exists And I want you to forget about that job at the Cee Bar”

E into the driveway a little too fast Gravel flehen he slammed on the brakes The pickup screeched to a stop short of the steps

“I never said a word about taking the job You’re the one who got the idea in your head And you haven’t quit harping about it ever since” He climbed out of the pickup and slammed the door shut behind him

“Fine,” Dallas snapped, sla about it”

“Suits rabbed hold of the handrail and pulled hiht?”

“Yes” Her thoughts ht I’d add soht Is that all right with you?” she asked, thinking that she should have enough ti

“Bowl of that’ll be good enough for h the door straight over to the recliner and plopped himself in it

Both were careful to avoid any further reference to the Cee Bar Ranch But the thought of it was never out of Euilt when Dallas stopped by his chair on her way out the door and brushed his cheek with a kiss

“I’ with you earlier” Her lips curved in a rueful smile even as her eyes teased hiine you letting yourself get talked into so”

“Nobody can talk ruffly “I s”

“Always,” Dallas agreed and crossed to the door, her book bag in hand She swung back, s at him “I don’t knohat I was so worried about anyway It isn’t likely your Quint Echohaould even consider hiring you”

His head came up “Why not?”