“Can I ask you not to call me anymore?”

  His heart slammed into his chest. Duke thought he might find the hole where his heart once sat if he touched his chest. She could not have hurt him more. “Why, Katie? What happened to the way you felt about me? Because I know you did, you can’t deny it.”

  The sound of her blowing her nose came through loud and clear.

  “Katie, I love you. You got to know that. And you love me.” He raked a shaky hand through his hair. “What’s wrong? Can’t we talk about what’s bothering you?”

  “No, I don’t think so. I…we…it’s not you, it’s me.”

  “We can work out whatever’s wrong. I’m here and ready to listen. I won’t push, but I won’t back off either. Katie, you care about me, I know you do. So what is so important, you can’t even explain why you don’t want to see me?”

  A man’s voice spoke up in the background. “Who’s that?”

  “Just go back to sleep,” Katie said.

  “Was that a dude? You got somebody else over there?” Duke’s throat constricted over the thought. “Katie, you better talk to me.”

  “Duke, please don’t call me. Okay? Just, please, don’t.”

  The phone went dead.

  Throwing the phone, Duke fell back in the bed. Blackness closed in around him. Pain, a pain so pure and bright threatened to crush his chest. The need to punch something had him ripping the bedside table lamp out of the socket before hurling the fixture across the room. The crash wasn’t enough to begin to satisfy his mood. Had he read Katie wrong? Hadn’t she fought insurmountable odds to save him? Hadn’t she remained by his side in the Netherworld? In truth, she’d been at his side every day since the attack. So, why all of a sudden did she not want him to contact her?

  The ache permeated his body. The sickening feeling of loss engulfed him. Glancing around he realized he couldn’t even go over and deck the guy like he so desperately wanted to do.

  Footsteps came running down the hall. “Duke? Did you fall?”

  Growling at the light, which almost blinded him, Duke defended. “I’m fine. Clumsy. That’s all.

  Logan picked up the phone lying in the doorway. The screen was shattered. “Yeah, this is toast.” Holding it up as proof, he walked around the edge of the bed. “You have a fit or something?”

  “Or something.” Duke scowled. He wasn’t in the mood to talk about it.

  “Hey, there’s a UFC fight on the tube, want to watch with me?”

  “No.”

  “Okay. What do you want to do? Play poker?”

  “No.”

  “Could you leave me alone?”

  Logan stilled. The smile faded from his face.

  “What’s eating at you, bro?” Glancing at the phone, he grimaced. “Was Katie at the other end of the line?”

  Duke cut narrowed eyes at him. “Is she seeing somebody else?”

  Logan swallowed.

  “Fuck!” Duke slammed his hands into the mattress. “Here I am laid up in a F’n bed and she’s out partying with another man. This blows!”

  Logan glanced toward the door. Aubrie stood inside the frame.

  Duke followed his gaze. “Is she dicking around with some lowlife? You better tell me the truth.”

  Aubrie stepped inside. “She said she couldn’t watch you kill yourself. Watching you come back from the edge of death once was all she could stand. She said her heart couldn’t stand losing you, so after you came out of ICU and the doctors said you would walk again, she decided it was time to take a step back.”

  Duke’s ears heard everything she said, but his mind refused to believe. “How could she do that to me? I thought she loved me. I thought she knew I loved her. Does any of that matter?” He flung his arms wide in the bed.

  Logan stood, glancing hesitantly at Aubrie. “Bro, she can’t deal, that’s all there is to it. She says you two are just too different. Hey, for what it’s worth, I’m sorry. I know how you feel about her.”

  Duke stared over the edge of his sheet-covered toes in the bed. His only reaction was stillness. If breathing didn’t come automatic, he would have stopped that as well.

  Chapter 21

  The sun beat down in a heady mix of heat and stirring anticipation. Duke’s horse studied the calf coming out of the shoot expectantly. With the whistle, Duke spurred the horse and leaned forward, rope in teeth, ready to leap.

  Working in tandem with his partner, who roped the calf first, Duke made his move. The seconds ticked by as he leaped from the saddle, dropping to the ground to grab all four calf hooves before wrapping them with his rope. With the last wrap of the jute, he shoved to his feet, his arms extended out from his body. The clock stopped.

  “We have a new leader.”

  Giving his partner a high five, Duke strolled over to his mount and saddled up once more. Cheers and well wishes blocked any other thoughts as he absorbed the moment. He’d done it. He’d made it back from a life-changing moment to rejoin life. Gone were the Bulls and the rodeo circuit, but in its place was a laid back social arena where he thrived. Duke tipped his hat to the dozens of onlookers as he turned his mount toward the back gate. Another win and another day. Sometimes, he mused, that’s all he had.

  Simple and down to earth. Like Katie enjoyed. He hadn’t heard from her for several months following his release from the hospital. He’d rented a few acres on the outskirts of town and started the old horse home he’d dreamt of while lying flat on his back in the hospital. The idea had been his, and Katie’s. He wanted to surprise her.

  His healing progressed. Still, his mind couldn’t accept the fact Katie didn’t want to have anything to do with him. He’d tried calling her. He’d even gone to the pharmacy a couple of times. Aubrie said she wasn’t in on those occasions. The notion she was avoiding him pricked his pride and his temper. Never having indulged in too much alcohol, Duke wondered if drinking would get her off his mind.

  His pain ran the gambit from guilt to anger, to hunger and back again. He hadn’t been out on a date since returning to Cheniere Station. Didn’t care to even try. No, he wanted answers. One day, he’d find a way to get them.

  His phone rang beside him in the truck. Glancing at the readout, he grinned. “Lodi, what’s up?”

  “Hey, cowboy. Whatta up to?”

  “Just chillin’. Had a good ride today. Won a little pocket change. Headed home. Why what’s up?”

  “Well, we’re celebrating over here. I got good news today.”

  “Yeah, ‘bout what?”

  “DA’s dropped the charges against me.”

  “That’s awesome. Man, I’m so glad for you.”

  “Yeah, well he said since the DNA didn’t match and the other evidence proved circumstantial, they couldn’t press for a trial. So, they dropped the charges.”

  “Wow, great news, Lodi. Hey, we should go have a brew or two.”

  “Yeah, that’s why I called. I’ve got steaks on the grill, and one of them has your name on it. I want your ass over here within thirty minutes. Got that?”

  “I don’t know. I’ve got to clean up and feed…”

  Logan cut him off. “Look, Duke. The main reason I’m off the hook is that of you. Now, I’m not taking no for an answer. We’ve got water and jeans here. Point your truck in this direction, now. We can’t celebrate the holiday without you. Get your butt over here.”

  Duke laughed. Easing into the idea, he figured what the hell. “Okay, I’m headed your way. Save me a brew, bro.”

  ***

  Katie sipped her wine while she nibbled on veggies. “Who’s Logan talking to?”

  Aubrie glanced up from potato salad prep and shrugged. “I don’t know. Probably spreading the good news. I know Gus was his first call.” She glanced sideways at her friend. “You like the Cabernet?”

  Glancing down, Katie focused on the glass in her hand. “Yeah, it’s good. Nice body to it.” Her fingers laced the glass base as she swirled the contents. “How is Logan’s idea for expanding Gus’ garage going?”

  “Good. I’ve never seen Logan so enthralled in a plan like he is with this one. I think the dropping the charges news is the icing on the cake. He’s as happy as I’ve ever seen him.”

  “Logan deserves to be happy.” She turned to Aubrie. “You make him happy.”

  Aubrie smiled as she shook out greens for their salad. “We click. Isn’t that funny. We are totally different in a bunch of the things that make us who we are yet we mesh together perfectly.” Her eyes never left Katie’s face.

  “Okay. I get it. I get it.” Picking up a cucumber slice, she skirted the island in the kitchen and strode over to the French doors to the back deck. “So much time has passed. He’s probably forgotten all about me by now.”

  The laugh from Aubrie was mirthless. “Yeah and pigs fly on a regular basis.”

  Katie turned. “Of all people, I thought you’d understand.”

  “Why, because I’m your friend? Or maybe because I understand how dangerous he lives his life?”

  “Yeah, a little of both I guess.” Sullen, Katie turned back to the window.

  “Something I learned from a dear friend recently, is the fact that you don’t keep secrets from those you love and you are willing to compromise.”

  Now Katie’s eyes narrowed on Aubrie. “And how is that going to help me? I didn’t keep secrets from him. I wasn’t the one who didn’t want to compromise.”

  “Yeah, but you didn’t give him a chance to change either. You just wrote him off without a look back. How is that fair?”

  “Fair? I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Katie stilled, the glass of Cabernet still in her hand. “I’m supposed to roll over and be at his beck and call? Is that the case, friend?” Sure, she didn’t want to fight, Katie stepped to the island again. “Look, he hasn’t been around, just like I figured. He wants his space apparently.”

  Aubrie smiled blandly. “We’ll see.”

  The front door swung open. Gus appeared carrying an enormous box. “Hey there, I need help here.” Nona followed with a bowl of baked beans.

  Katie saw a chance to be useful. “What this?”

  “Fireworks,” Gus said setting the box down on the coffee table. “Katie, I need to sort through these. There are party poppers here somewhere. Nona’s favorite. She needs them before we start the big show.”

  “Okay, I can find them. I’ll sort everything into groups.”

  “Sounds like a winner. Hey, does Logan have a beer around here?”

  Laughing, Katie pointed in the direction of the back deck. “Check in the cooler. I think he’s hoarding them there.”

  Sparklers were her favorite. Katie sorted through the pile of fireworks, Gus had conjured for the occasion. The Fourth of July only came once a year, she mused. Separating the different things in his wicked warlock bag of tricks, she chose a box of red and gold sparklers for herself. Coming stag to Aubrie and Logan’s little party didn’t bother her much. She enjoyed their company and the chance to celebrate with friends.

  Keeping up with traditions lined up perfect with her sense of order. She was happy, she told her reflection in the living room mirror. Happy and content. Satisfied with the piles she’d made, Katie went to find a refill for her wine glass.

  ***

  Duke could smell the grill from the road. The drive to Aubrie’s house didn’t take long. The Curs met him as he got out of the truck. Giving each dog a good scratch, he eyeballed his surroundings. Logan had made his mark on Aubrie’s place. He admired the addition to her barn and the pergola on the back deck. Easing in that direction, he drank in the serenity. Removed from the noise of even a small town like Cheniere Station, the farm had a solid appeal. His place would look like this one day. Smiling at the idea, he climbed the steps to the back deck.

  “Lodi. How’s it hanging, man?” Greeting Logan with a slapping handshake, Duke grinned in Gus’ direction, calling his friend by his nickname which reminded him of his Louisiana roots and Duke’s favorite song by Credence Clearwater Revival, Lodi. “You doing all right, Gus?”

  “Can’t complain, Duke. How about you?”

  “Better each day. Working out now to improve the muscles and nerves.”

  “You’re looking fit. Glad it all worked out for you. Really glad,” Gus offered before taking another swig of beer.

  Duke nodded. “Me too.” He glanced around for the ice chest and headed over. “Logan’s told me about his plans for the garage. Sounds good. I’m glad y'all are going in together.”

  “Yeah, Logan and Aubrie are settling down now. I figure a little warlock is on the way soon, so I thought the plan made sense. There’s still room for another partner if you’re interested.”

  “I appreciate that, Gus. I’ll think about it. Got my hands full out at the place right now. Who knew there were so many elder horses?”

  Logan turned to Duke. Waving a fork in midair, he said, “Aubrie’s glad you’re doing the rest home for horses, Duke. Being the animal lover, she is, your place is ideal for older horses. I rode by on my way to work the other day. You have the place looking good. Has Katie seen it yet?”

  Duke’s head came up. “Katie?” Saying her name hurt. “Naw, not yet.”

  Aubrie appeared at the French door. “How are the steaks coming?”

  Logan saluted her. “Be ready soon, Sugar.”

  “Hey there, didn’t see you come up.” She grinned for Duke. Walking out, she reached up for a hug. “How’ve you been?”

  “Good. You’re looking fine.” With a wink toward Logan, he whispered. “If you ever get tired of old mystic man over there, let me know.”

  The giggle gave way to a laugh. Aubrie shoved back on Duke’s shoulder. “Get out of here, Duke.” Waving him off, she turned for the door.

  That’s when he saw her. Katie standing in the frame of the open door stunned him down to his marrow. Of course, she’d be here. She was Aubrie’s friend. Why hadn’t he thought of that? “Hey there.”

  Her tremulous smile rubbed on his awakening nerves. God, but she looked good, he thought. Those curves fit that tight little body to a tee. “Happy Fourth of July.” Wincing at the ridiculous opening line, Duke stepped toward her. Despite what had happened, he wouldn’t ruin the moment with hot words or bad temperament.

  “It’s good to see you, Duke. You look well. Healing?”

  “Yeah, coming right along. I even rode today. The Range Riders had a little get together over at the arena, and a buddy and I entered the calf roping. We came in first.” His small talk sucked, he mused. Feeling like the only thing they had, he went with the trivial.

  “That’s super. You haven’t lost your touch, have you?” Her eyes flitted away with the words.

  “I gave up the bulls. The circuit was getting old anyway. Time to move on, you know?” Duke shoved his hands in his pockets, as he didn’t have a clue what to do with them. “You working hard?”

  “Yes. Always.” Katie rolled her eyes and grinned.

  His fingers twitched, and then curled into his palms. His gut cinched up another notch. “I rode by a time or two. Aubrie said you’d run an errand.”

  Nodding, Katie glanced over at the guys manning the grill. I had to run to the bank. Deposit the day’s earnings.”

  Rocking back on his boot heel, Duke pursed his mouth. “Yep, the daily deposit.”

  “Ready to eat?” Logan called out with a wide grin. “It’s ready.”

  Katie and Duke both stepped aside as the food made it into the house.

  “After you, Katie.” Duke almost called her darlin’. The thought tightened his gut a bit more.

  “Sit here, Katie,” Aubrie directed.

  “You sit here, Duke.” Logan winked at the baleful look Duke sent him. He’d made sure Duke sat by Katie.

  “Let’s say a prayer.” Gus stood. “Hold hands, everyone.”

  Duke opened his eyes for a second. Katie’s small hand slipped into his. Closing the fingers over her subtle skin, he released the breath he’d been holding. Silently hoping, Gus ad-libbed on the prayer, he languished in the feel of her hand in his. The contact was warm and tender. Nothing had felt so good in a very long time. Before he chickened out, he leaned in. “You feel good, darlin’.”

  Her fingers stiffened for a minute. She smiled politely with her head bowed.

  “Are you living here?” she asked softly.

  “Yes, I have my own place. A horse retirement ranch.”

  Oblivious to Gus’ prayer now, Katie smiled and turned to look at him. “That’s wonderful.” A warm gleam entered her expression.

  The prayer ended. Reluctantly, Duke released Katie’s hand.

  Gus raised his glass. “I have a toast I’d like to give. Since this is a nation built on independence, I’m sure we’re all grateful for the chance to come together as a family and pay tribute to this wonderful country. Also, I want to thank a couple of people who showed such courage under fire during our last mission beyond the veil. To Duke and Katie. You both deserve our gratitude and admiration for going the extra mile to save your family members. We’ll never forget.”

  Blushing, Katie glanced at Duke.

  He, in turn, sought her eyes. “I guess we are like a family. Haven’t had much experience though.”

  Her smile wreathed her face. “You can be part of my family anytime, Duke.”

  His heart swelled. Reaching under the table, he took Katie’s hand again. “Thanks,” he managed.

  Before he realized it, his plate was clean. “That was some good grub, Lodi.”

  “Thanks, cowboy. Hey, didn’t I hear you say, you had fourteen horses over at your place?”

  Duke glanced up. “Yeah, that’s right. I got four just the other day from West Texas. They came in from the rodeo I worked. I’d had my eye on them for a long time. Knew when I retired, I wanted them with me.”

  Katie watched him. He could feel her eyes on his skin. The soft way she had of analyzing every little detail of a man’s face with a look from her. Turning, he found her attention peaked, or so he hoped. “Would you like to go out and see them afterward?”

  His pragmatic woman stilled for only a second. “Yes, I would.”

 

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