Page 25 of Cowboy's Healing Heart

“Everything, mamma.” I cry, missing her, missing home.

“Baby, you’re strong, and whatever it is ain’t got shit on you.”

I chuckle. “Woman, you’re crazy.”

“Damn straight when it comes to my kids. What happened?”

I shake my head, looking out into the night. “Jordan, calling again. And I need to look for another job.”

“Want me to call June Bug?”

I throw my head back and laugh. “Oh, hell nawl. That man is one can short of a six-pack.”

We laugh until I can’t breathe.

“You better, baby?”

“Yes, ma’am, just don’t know what I’m gonna do.”

“Well, when you don’t know what to do…”

“Come home.”

“That’s right, baby. Come home. We can handle anything together.”

I nod, knowing I can return to Atlanta. But that’s not my home anymore, not after experiencing life outside the city. And I don’t trust living in the same city as Jordan.

“I still have eight weeks in my contract. I’ll keep you posted.”

“Sounds like a plan. I’ll talk with you Sunday.”

“Yes, ma’am. And thank you, mamma.”

“No thanks are required. That’s what mamma’s do.”

I hang up, feeling lighter. But it doesn’t solve my issue with Shane or Jordan.

Taking a deep breath, I walk over to open the door. Ashanti is asleep on the couch, a book lying open on her chest. The sight of her, so peaceful and innocent, steadies me.

This is what matters. My daughter, our life here at the ranch. Not whatever twisted game Shane and I are playing.

I scoop Ashanti into my arms, cradling her against my chest. She stirs, blinking up at me with sleepy eyes.

“Mom?” she mumbles, her voice thick with sleep.

“Shh, baby,” I murmur, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “It’s okay. I’ve got you.”

As I tuck her into bed, smoothing the covers over her small frame, I make a silent vow. No more games, no more giving in to temptation.

Shane Kennedy is off-limits from now on. I won’t let him get under my skin again.

I can’t afford to.

SIX

SECRETS AND WALLS

SHANE

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