Page 51 of Her Saltwater Cowboy

“They think there’s a risk of that?”

“There’s always a risk, I guess. But they were kind about it. Said she might not be able to stay.” Willow turned to him with fresh resolve. “But I will figure it out. Not worried.”

Chance eyed her cautiously. “Should I be?”

“Nope.”

“Hmm.”

“Relax, cowboy. I’ve made it this far.”

His expression turned grim. “I didn’t mean to doubt you, Willow. It’s just, well, I’m trying to tell you I care.”

She licked her lips and quickly turned her gaze back toward the window, watching the blur of trees pass them by.

Her voice fell to a whisper. “Thank you.”

After a beat, he broke the silence. “So, you see, I can help with all kinds of things: stubborn hands, broken fences … fierce women.”

Willow barked out a laugh, grateful for the sudden change of mood. “Is that right?”

“I’m a man of many talents.”

She snorted. “Oh, brother.”

He laughed, one brow lifted. “I’m in your corner, Willow. Snort and all.”

This time, her laughter dissolved into giggles that went on and on and on.

* * *

The call came at dawn.

Willow had just started slicing potatoes when Kit burst into the kitchen, breathless and pale, phone still clutched in her hand like it might burn right through her skin.

“It’s Ace,” she gasped. “They’ve taken him to the hospital. Chest pain. EMTs just left with him.”

Willow froze, knife suspended mid-slice. “I haven’t heard … what do you mean … did they come here?” She put the knife down, her mind racing.

Kit shook her head. “He was out in the paddock with the guys?—”

“He never goes out there.”

“I know! But he wanted to see what Rafael was up to, and Eli said they were all up there just talkin’ about a couple of massive birds that went by when Ace got ill.”

“Oh no.”

“He’s still breathin’ and talkin’, in case you were wonderin’.”

“Good. Great. I’m so glad.”

Kit’s chin cranked up and down. “Chance went with him. I don’t know what we’re supposed to do.”

Willow grabbed the towel from her shoulder and wiped her hands. Her pulse began to gallop.

Okay." She steadied herself with a deep breath. "We do what Ace would want. We keep things moving."

Kit stared at her, eyes round. “We?”

---