Page 72 of Dirty Cowboy

“For you? Anything.”

I lean forward, elbows on my knees. “I need you to get in touch with McMurrey. I need the deed information for a couple of properties out here and an external audit of the Waters' ranch financial records.”

Greg hums thoughtfully. “Send me the details, and I’ll get on it. What exactly are we looking for?”

“Any irregularities in the books, market service rates, and the deeds.” I pause. “Did I already say deeds? I need them urgently.”

“You did.”

“Sorry. I feel like a chicken running around without a head.”

“A what?” He laughs.

“Did you know piglets aren’t born pink?”

“No, but now I do. Sounds like you’re having fun.”

“That part wasn’t fun. Kissing Eric was fun.”

Greg sputters. “Wait. You kissed him?”

“No, he kissed me,” I correct. “In front of his parents. We were pretending.”

“Interesting.”

“Greg, focus. The properties—Waters' and the one north of here. Should be under John Huntz.”

“Got it. Now, tell me, when are you coming back?”

I lean my head back, staring up at the wooden beams above me. “I need a few more days. Eric needs to fall head over heels for me first.”

Greg’s laughter fills my ear. “Emma, if he doesn’t, he doesn’t deserve you.”

My chest tightens. “He will. Also, I’m sending some papers to corporate. Just… Don’t let my brothers see them. Forward them straight to the board.”

“Understood. And if they sit in on the meeting?”

“They won’t. They’re too focused on Dad.” I chew on my lip, stealing a glance at the time. “I need to call my mom before I lose signal.”

“All right. I should have everything back to you in a couple of days. Love you.”

“Love you back.”

I hang up and immediately dial Mom. This time, she picks up on the second ring.

“Emma! Oh, darling, I miss you so much,” she says, her voice warm but tired.

“I miss you too, Mom. How’s Dad?”

“The new mattress is a blessing. Fred slept through the night and most of today, which is good. His body needs the rest to fight.” She sighs, and my stomach knots. If he’s sleeping more, that means his body is struggling harder. “How’s everything out west?”

I force a smile, even though she can’t see it. “Eric delivered piglets last night. I got to brush Shadow. Joanne and Ethan say hello.”

“That’s wonderful. And has Eric fallen in love with you yet?” Her voice is full of teasing amusement.

“Mom!” Heat prickles my cheeks.

“Oh, Emma, we all know you’re head over heels for that man.”

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