Page 51 of The Cowboy's Country Charm

He tipped his finger to his hat. “My pleasure. Truly.”

She stared into his blue eyes and felt her heart expand. “You must think I’m totally incompetent. I’m always asking you to help me out of something.”

“I’m happy to help. As for what I think, I think you’re a hard worker, capable, and organized as all get out.”

“Really?” She bit her lip. “Right now I don’t feel any of that.” She shrugged. “Maybe the hard-worker part.” She did expend a lot of effort, even if it didn’t always show.

He lightly swiped her nose with his finger.

“Never doubt it.” He reached for her, tugged her close. “I have something to tell you though.”

She wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned back to look at him. It felt good to be in his arms. Good to be supported, figuratively and literally. “Is it bad?”

“Depends. But I’ll tell you the good news first.”

She took a deep breath and braced herself. “That bad, huh? You’re not pulling out of the bail out of jail?” They were still struggling to get participants.

“Don’t tempt me, but no. As long as you bid on me.”

“Then what is it?”

“Well, the good news is that Colby Johnson is willing to give it a go.”

That was a relief. “Whose Colby Johnson, again?”

“He’s a rodeo cowboy, well known in these parts and well liked by the ladies, at least to hear him tell it. I think he’ll raise some money for you.”

“Thank you. Again.” Another way he was helping her.

“And Lexi wanted me to tell you that Greta Hutchins has agreed to be bailed out.”

A woman? This was great news. “Where’s she from?”

“Cort’s mother, Kate, is president of the cosmetic company that sells the Aspriel line. Ever hear of them?”

“Of course. That’s a high-end cosmetic line.” She relaxed.

“Well, Greta is the face and spokeswoman for Aspriel and from around these parts. Kate got her to commit to being in the auction. Felt it was good publicity for the line. The company is also donating a basket for the auction.”

“The model in the commercials? She’s beautiful! She will definitely raise money for us.” She couldn’t help herself… she kissed him on the cheek.

He grabbed her around the waist. “I think that news warrants more than that,” he growled. He pulled her up to meet his lips. His mouth opened, and she fed him hot kisses. He let out a deep-throated moan.

A car honked from somewhere in the parking lot.They were standing out in the open.For anyone to see.She broke the kiss.

Rusty blinked and let out a breath. “Right,” he said, as if remembering himself. “What were we talking about?” He smirked.

She stepped out of his embrace and gulped some air, hoping to calm her hammering heart. “We were talking about Greta.”

“Right. We gain her, but we may lose out on another contestant. Remember Stetson also said he would enter? He’s had a thing for Greta for years, so once he hears she’s coming, he’ll be bidding, not entering.”

Back to reality. “Really? That sounds like a story.”

“I’ll tell you about it later. Right now, there is something else I need to tell you, and I’m not sure how you’re going to take it.”

Just when she had finally relaxed. By the frown on his face, it wasn’t good. “Is it about us?”

“Well…” He wiped a hand across his brow.

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