Page 50 of Colt

He tossed the pen he’d been holding onto the desk, leaned back in his chair and stared into her eyes.

“Why did you do that?”

“I know her. She’s one of Ron’s past lovers.” She shrugged.

“So, you did think I was interested in her because of your ex. I’m not him, and I was only being cordial to her because, no matter how much you don’t like her, she is a client.”

“If I’d known she was, I would have asked her to take her horse elsewhere. She did all she could to make my life miserable. When I saw her touching you, I saw red. It brought back pain. I’m sorry.”

Colt huffed, pushed his chair back, stood, and walked around the desk. She stood and stared at him with tear-filled eyes.

“Chelsea, you don’t have to worry about me with another woman. Hell, I barely have enough energy for you.” He shook his head. “I don’t cheat. I never have.”

“I’m sorry,” she whispered again.

He cupped her cheek in his hand. “Alright. I accept your apology.”

“Thank you.”

“Come here, baby,” he said, and pulled her into his arms. She wrapped her arms around his waist and cried against his chest. “Don’t cry. We’re okay. It just shocked me when you told me what to do.”

“I know it did. But seeing Janine here threw me for a loop.” She stared at him. “I told her to take her horse elsewhere. I will not be around that woman.”

“I understand but stop thinking I’m like him. I’m not.”

“I know. It won’t happen again. I don’t want you angry with me.”

Colt chuckled. “Darlin’, you’re asking the impossible. You know damn well; we’re still going to clash and piss each other off.” He kissed her temple. “But think of what fun we’ll have making up.”

Chelsea grinned. “Can we make up tonight?”

“Yes. Come to my place around eight. I’m a little behind today with Bobby quitting.”

“I wonder why he quit.”

“I’m not sure, but I’ll see about hiring someone.”

“Also, for the riding stable. Christine said she could use some help.”

“Yeah, I’ll look into it. Now, let me get back to work. I’ll see you later.” He kissed her lips, led her to the door, opened it, and gently pushed her out. He grinned then closed the door.

Chelsea stared at the closed door, laughed, and walked back to the house. She couldn’t wait to… make up this evening.

Chapter Eight

Colt eased open the barn doors to take in the sight of snowflakes drifting down. It was only the second week of November, yet another snowstorm had blanketed the countryside.

He propped himself against the doorframe, crossing his arms and inhaling the crisp air. His gaze drifted to the house, where he couldn’t wait to see Chelsea later tonight.

But were things moving too fast with her? He could feel himself falling for her, and it scared him to his core. As he watched, she appeared on the porch, waved at him, then disappeared back inside.

He was about to return to work when she emerged once more, bundled up in a coat and beanie. She jogged across the yard and joined him in the barn.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” she asked with a smile.

“It’s also a pain in the ass.” He grinned as she laughed.

She linked her arm through his and they took in the snowy scene.

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