Page 28 of Cowboy Jeopardy

“You’re being unreasonable.”

“Yep.” She was tired of other people thinking she would make another bonehead decision that ended up killing someone. “It’s a talent. Please move your car. I have an appointment.”

He glanced past her to her mother. “Try talking some sense into her, would you, Marilyn?”

“I’m trying, but it isn’t easy. The best thing for everyone is to keep Dani at the ranch and close to the house. Heard you might be coming by once in a while.”

“Plan on it. The sheriff wants as many eyes on the ranch visitors as possible. I’m not opposed to some overtime if it involves horses.” He grinned and slapped the hood of the truck. “See y’all. Use your head and stay safe.” He marched to his car and backed from the lot.

Dani exhaled heavily and rolled her head on tense shoulders. “I’m getting tired of being treated like an idiot.” She jammed her foot on the gas and peeled rubber from the parking lot.

“Speeding isn’t going to help your cause, dear.” Mom gripped the handle hanging near her head.

Dani slowed. “I’m not the same person I was three months ago, Mom. You forget that I proved my intelligence and bravery during that time, too. Now is no different. I’m not going to do anything stupid that will put anyone’s life in danger. Just doing my job, that’s it.”

“You’re right, and I’m sorry. We shouldn’t be treating you like a wayward child.”

“Thank you.” She cut her mother a quick glance, then smiled. “Maybe we should set a trap like we did before.”

“I’ve been thinking about that, but don’t tell your sister.” Mom grinned. “When we can, you and I will put our heads together and come up with a plan. We’ll get this guy, Dani. Just like we brought down Roberto.”

Hope leaped in her. “Yes, we will.” They’d have to do it without involving Dylan or the boys. Maybe they could draw out the bad guy and lure him away from the ranch. She parked the truck in front of the house and headed for the barn while her mother went inside. It might be Sunday and their day off, but there were still meals to cook. As for the boys, Dylan took over on Sunday.

Eric and Derrick sat on bales of hay in the barn while Dylan saddled Daisy. “We’re going to head for the woods today. Take a ride along the creek. Sound good?” He smiled.

She nodded, her throat dry. “Sure.” She coughed and tried again. “Sounds fun.”

“We’re going, too.” The boys jumped up and ran to her. “Dad said we’ll take a picnic.”

“I’ve already eaten.”

“Then you can sit there and watch us eat.” Dylan handed her the reins to her horse. “Lead her outside. We’ll be right there.”

Okay. Surprisingly enough, the horse followed as Dani headed outside. She led her to the stump, determined to get into the saddle on her own. “Now, you stay still. Don’t make me fall.” She glanced around to see whether anyone was watching, then climbed on the stump. Taking a deep breath, she put her left foot in the stirrup and swung her right leg over, settling her rump in the saddle. “I did it!”

Daisy tossed her head and danced away from the stump.

“Whoa!” Dani gripped the reins tighter.

~

Dylan’s eyes widened at the sight of Dani fighting to gain control over the skittish horse. “What did you do?”

“Nothing. I climbed into the saddle.”

“Did I hear you holler?”

“Maybe.”

He laughed and rushed forward, grabbing the bit in Daisy’s mouth. “Whoa, girl. You startled her, is all. Nice job not falling off.” Once the horse had settled down, he stepped back. “Just follow me and the boys. I’ll set a slow pace.” He climbed onto Lightning, tugged his hat firmly in place on his head, and set off for the woods. The dirt and grass muffled the sound of the hooves as they left the ranch. Birds sang from the trees. The sun hung high overhead, heating his back and shoulders. He glanced over his shoulder at his boys, one on each side of Dani. “Everyone okay?”

“Yes.” Dani seemed more relaxed than he’d seen her in the saddle before. She’d be a good rider before she knew it.

The woods greeted him with cool shade. The creek babbled, inviting them to stop. He pulled on the reins. “Let the horses drink. We’ll stop here for a minute, then continue on. I’d like to show you the waterfall.”

“You have a waterfall?” Dani’s eyes lit up.

“We’ll eat there.” He took Daisy’s reins and led the horses to the creek. A few minutes later, they were back in the saddle and riding through thick brush.

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