crossroads

“Yeah, ok, I’ll be home soon and I’ll see you when I get there. Bye.” I finally hung up with my roommate after an hour of talking.
I let my cell phone fall to the passenger seat of my car and focused my attention on getting home after a long business trip out of town.
A car drove past me with its headlights set to bright and I instantly got a momentary blindness. The next thing I saw was a dozen trees right in front of me and instead of doing the smart thing and using my break, I swerved to try and miss the trees.
I flung forward and when I hit my head on my seat I automatically felt pain rushing through my body.
I had pain in my stomach but mostly on my head.
And then everything became fuzzy and slowly turned black.1

***************2

My horse jumped at the sound of something hitting something else.
“Whoa, easy Cherokee.” I cooed to her.
I urged her forwards and looked around, bringing out my flashlight so I could see more clearly.
Lou, my Brittany spaniel and only dog of mine that would go hunting with me, raced forward.
“Lou!” I called.
He barked over and over.
I flashed my flashlight toward the way Lou had run off to and I instantly jumped off of Cherokee when I saw a car slammed into trees.
I rushed toward the driver side and saw that it was a car with only one person in it, the driver.
“Lady are you ok?” I asked.
She moaned.
I thought momentarily. Police and an ambulance wouldn’t make it for hours where we were; I had to get her out of the car and fast before she died.
I quickly opened the door and leaned over the lady and unbuckled her seatbelt.
I saw blood coming from a cut on her head and I quickly ripped a part of my shirt off and tied it around her head to stop the bleeding.
After I finally lifted her out gently I ordered Lou to guide us home.
When I reached my cabin I placed the lady on my bed and got my first aid kit.
I sighed heavily when I realized I would have to take off her clothes to check for injuries.
I quickly took off her clothes and checked her over for injuries, finding a seatbelt mark across her chest; that would have to heal on its own. Her only other injury was her head injury.
I quickly grabbed some of my sweat pants and a tee shirt of mine and slipped them on her.
She was knocked out cold and I knew that I would have to watch her carefully.3

**************4

I groaned as I woke up and felt pain.
I opened my eyes slowly and realized I wasn’t in my car or my house or a hospital, but in a log cabin.
I glanced around to see if anyone was around and noticed a man standing in front of the stove cooking something.
“Where am I?” I grunted.
The man looked over his shoulder at me and left the stove to come and sit beside me.
“You’re uh, at my cabin in Kelpington. I’m Jordan Hymer.” The man stated.
“Oh.” I nodded.
“What’s your name?” Jordan asked.
“Emily Kale.” I answered.
“Nice to meet you Emily.” Jordan smiled.
“Why haven’t you taken me to a hospital?” I asked.
“Because the only thing wrong with you is that you had a cut on your head and I stitched that up. I’m working on your car too.” Jordan answered.
“My car?” I asked.
“Yeah, I think I can fix it, it’ll take a few more days but otherwise it’s fine.” Jordan answered.
“How long have I even been here?” I asked.
“Oh…uh…only a few days.” Jordan answered.
“How long?” I demanded.
“Nine days.” Jordan answered looking down.
“Are you kidding me? I have a roommate that’s going to be freaking out! I have to get out of here now!” I exclaimed sitting up.
“Hey, hey easy. You can’t get up that fast. You’re going to be down for a few days so just take it easy ok? You’re gonna hurt yourself.” Jordan eased me down again.
“Don’t touch me!” I hollered.
“Don’t scream, you’re gonna get a headache.” Jordan urged.
“I’ll do whatever the…” I started and then stopped when I felt a throbbing in my head.
“I’ll get you some aspirin.” Jordan stood and left the room.5

***************6

The next morning I woke to Cleo, Theo and Lou barking.
I rushed out of the room and saw Emily standing by the couch with the dogs watching her furiously.
“Hey, over here, now.” I said to the dogs.
All three looked at me and trotted over.
I headed into the kitchen and poured food in their bowls.
“Sorry about that, they just wanted their breakfast.” I apologized to Emily.
She only nodded, still in fright.
“Emily, they won’t hurt you. They’re the friendliest dogs ever.” I laughed as she sat down on the couch.
She nodded.
“Are you hungry?” I asked.
“Yeah.” She answered.
“Would you like some eggs and waffles?” I offered.
“Sure.” She agreed.
I quickly made her breakfast and set it in front of her as well as a glass of orange juice before heading out to work on the ranch.
I greeted the horses in the barn and led them all out to pasture before heading to Emily’s car.
I looked up as the dogs rushed out of the house barking.
A beat up, red, Chevy truck came rolling up my driveway, pulling a trailer behind it.
“Hey Jordan, how’s it going?” My friend Ronny called as he got out of his truck.
The dogs greeted him excitedly.
“Call your mutts off man.” Ronny laughed as Lou jumped high to get his attention.
“Hey, go on now.” I scolded the dogs once I reached Ronny.
“Thank you. So, what do you need the car parts for Jordan?” Ronny asked.
“That.” I pointed to Emily’s car.
“Who’s car is that?” Ronny asked.
“Just a car Ronny. Do you have the parts or not?” I answered.
“Yeah, of course.” Ronny nodded.
He helped me unload the parts he had brought.
“So, do you want to unload your new mare or do you want to keep it in the trailer for the rest of it’s life?” Ronny asked.
“Right, mare.” I nodded.
I entered the trailer and led out a beautiful blue roan mare.
“Thanks Ronny. I’ll go get your check.” I said as I tied the mare to the hitching post.
I jogged into the house and stopped when I saw Emily doing the dishes.
“What are you doing? You need to be resting.” I said.
She jumped and dropped the plate that she had just finished drying.
It fell with a loud crash and broke into quite a few pieces.
“Oh my gosh! I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to break it. I was just trying to wash the dishes…” She started.
“It’s fine.” I cut her off.
“No it’s not, I’m so clumsy.” She shook her head.
We had both bent to start picking up the pieces.
She gasped sharply a few seconds later.
I looked up from the pile of pieces I had swept up with a towel and saw that she had cut herself and was now bleeding.
I opened a drawer and grabbed a cloth and wrapped it around her hand, tying it at the end.
“I’m sorry.” She looked down.
“Emily, you can’t apologize for hurting yourself.” I stated.
“But if I hadn’t broken the plate then I wouldn’t have hurt myself and you wouldn’t have to be helping me again.” She replied.
“The plate wasn’t your fault; I scared you and you dropped it, it’s that simple. It’s just a plate, I have tons more.” I laughed.
She looked up and gave me a thankful smile.
“Come on, I should probably get that stitched up.” I suggested, helping her stand.
I guided her over to the couch and sat her down. I then walked over and grabbed the first aid kit out of my drawer and then returned and sat in front of her on the coffee table.
After I got the bleeding to stop I grabbed some cleansing liquid and squirted it over her cut.
She sucked in her breath and I laughed.
“What are you laughing at?” She asked.
“I was just thinking that when I stitched up your head you didn’t wine this much.” I answered.
“I was knocked out.” She stated.
“Exactly.” I nodded.
“That’s not very nice. You could have taken me to a hospital if you didn’t want to deal with me.” She said.
“Yes, I could have but I know that the next hospital is three hours away and you needed tending to quickly.” I replied.
“Oh.” She said.
I began to stitch up her hand and she just held her breath; she was a very tough person.
“Hey Jordan! What’s taking you so long?” Ronny called as he entered the house.
He stopped abruptly when he saw Emily.
“Who is this?” He asked, eying Emily.7

***************8

“I’m Emily.” I smiled at the man that had walked through Jordan’s front door.
“Emily is the owner of the car out there, Ronny. She was in a wreck on my property a week and a half ago.” Jordan explained to him.
“Ah, got it. Well, I just got a call from Frank and he needs some help fixing a fence. Some kids broke into his field and cut the fence to steal five of his horses.” Ronny stated.
“Are you kidding?” Jordan asked.
“No, I’m serious man.” Ronny answered.
“That’s horrible.” I stated.
“Guess what else? They stole Reno.” Ronny added.
“What?” Jordan exclaimed.
“Yeah, anyway, he filed a report this morning but he needs to put up some new barb wire before he can put his horses out to pasture.” Ronny stated.
“Oh, well, I’ll go with you to help.” Jordan replied.
“What about her?” Ronny jerked his head my way.
“She can go with if she wants. If not, the dogs can take care of her.” Jordan looked at me as he answered Ronny’s question.
“I’ll go.” I shook my head at the mention of dogs taking care of me.
“Well first I have to finish your stitches.” Jordan focused his attention on my hand again.
“What happened?” Ronny asked.
“Plate.” Was all Jordan said.
“I’ll go pick that up.” Ronny headed toward the kitchen.
“Thanks buddy.” Jordan thanked him.9

“So…who is this Frank?” I asked on the way over to Jordan and Ronny’s friend’s ranch.
“Our friend. He comes around to my ranch a lot and helps me with rounding up the horses, along with Ronny.” Jordan answered.
“Oh.” I nodded.
“And his horse is so special why?” I asked.
Ronny looked at me like I was insane.
“Reno is one of the top horses around here. He used to be a rodeo horse, wild as could be and then Frank bought him from the rodeo and turned him into one of the best herding horses around here.” Jordan explained.
“I see.” I nodded.
“You do? You sure?” Ronny asked.
“Hey, easy on her Ronny. She doesn’t know country ways alright?” Jordan warned his buddy.
“What? Are you hot for her?” Ronny asked.
“No, I just don’t want her getting upset and you know I don’t like men being disrespectful to ladies.” Jordan answered.
“Whatever buddy.” Ronny shrugged.10

***************11

Ronny and Emily were quiet the rest of the way to Frank’s house. When we got there I helped Emily get out of the truck and then we walked up to Frank’s house.
“Frank? You home?” Ronny called.
“He’s out in the barn Ronny. Hi Jordan.” A familiar female voice called. The voice belonged to Frank’s beautiful wife Tanya.
“Hi Tanya.” I called back.
“Let’s go Jordan.” Ronny turned to head out the door.
“I’m going to introduce Tanya to Emily, I’ll be right out alright?” I said.
“Whatever man.” Ronny shook his head as he headed out the door.
I looked over at Emily; she didn’t look too well.
“Hey are you alright?” I asked her.
“Yeah uh…just a little nervous.” She answered.
“Alright, well, come on, I want you to meet someone.” I smiled at her.
We both walked down the hall and into the kitchen where Tanya stood washing dishes.
“Hey Tanya.” I greeted her once again.
“Hi Jordan how – who is this?” Tanya started to talk to me but when she saw Emily she changed her question.
“This is Emily, she’s staying with me for a little bit.” I introduced Emily.
“Well hello Emily and welcome to my home. Have a seat, relax, you look so tense.” Tanya smiled brightly at Emily.
Emily didn’t speak…or move.
“Is she alright Jordan? She’s not deaf is she?” Tanya looked at me in worried question.
“No, she’s just a bit shy. Go ahead Emily, sit down, she doesn’t bite.” I ushered Emily to one of the dining chairs.
Emily sat slowly and stiffly.
“Well, I should probably get out to the men, they might need my help.” I said.
“Alright.” Tanya nodded.
“Take care of Emily for me alright Tanya? Oh and don’t let her do anything that she can hurt herself with…she’s already had a bad morning.” I asked Tanya cautiously.
“Of course Jordan, now scoot. I don’t want Frank coming in here and hollering all about, scaring poor Emily even more then she already is.” Tanya said.
“Thank you Tanya.” I smiled at my friend’s wife. I looked over at Emily, “I’ll be right out near the barn if you need anything ok?” I said.
“Ok.” She nodded slowly.12

***************13

“So how did you come about in Jordan’s life? As far as I know he hasn’t spoken of a girl in quite a long time.” Tanya smiled at me brightly.
“Uh, I actually got in a car wreck on his land and woke up yesterday on his couch. I don’t really know how he found me but I’m grateful.” I answered quietly.
“No need to be afraid of me Emily, like Jordan said I don’t bite.” Tanya said.
“It’s not you in particular, it’s just being in a stranger’s house.” I replied.
“Oh, I see. So, tell me a little bit about yourself.” Tanya suggested cheerfully.
“Well uh, there’s nothing really to tell. I’m not all that interesting.” I said with a slight shake of my head and a half smile.
“Of course you are, everyone is. Tell me, do you have a boyfriend? What do you do for a living? Those type of things.” Tanya replied.
“No, no boyfriends.” I shook my head.
“And what do you do for a living?” Tanya asked.
“I’m in the hotel management business. I’m actually having my own hotel built so that I can own my own place. It’s actually turning out real well. Well, at least it was, until I crashed my car and now I’m stuck with Jordan until he completes it.” I answered.
“Really? Do you really consider yourself ‘stuck’?” Tanya asked.
“Actually, not really. It’s pretty nice to just get away from the big city and enjoy the country view.” I answered.
“Well then enjoy it while it lasts and feel free to come and enjoy it some more after you leave.” Tanya said with an even brighter smile.
“I’ll remember that offer.” I replied.
“Good, I hoped you would.” Tanya nodded her head – still smiling.
“I wouldn’t know why.” I shook my head.
“Well, it’s not everyday that the men that your husband has over almost everyday brings a pretty girl like you out here for company.” Tanya stated.
“Right, well, I’ll remember you, I never forget anyone that pops into my life.” I replied.
“Well ain’t that special?” Tanya smiled.
“I guess so.” I nodded slowly.
“So, have you been able to contact anyone, let them know you’re ok?” Tanya asked.
“Oh! I never really thought to do that! Would you mind if I used your phone?” I exclaimed.
“Of course not, go ahead.” Tanya laughed.
I found the phone and quickly dialed Lauren’s number.
“Hello?” A strained voice asked.
“Lauren? It’s me, Emily…” I started.
“Emily! Oh my god! Emily! Are you ok? I called the police and they’ve been looking for you! Are you hurt? Where are you? What the hell happened?” Lauren’s voice exclaimed and then broke I knew she was crying.
“Lauren hold on, you need to calm down ok? Now listen to me ok?” I asked, calmly.
“Ok, I’m listening.” Lauren answered.
“Ok, now, I was in a car crash and then…” I started.
“A car crash? Are you ok? Are you hurt?” Lauren cut me off.
“Lauren! I’m trying to tell you!” I exclaimed angrily.
“Right, right, sorry.” Lauren apologized softly.
“Now, I’m fine, a few bumps and bruises and one nice big seatbelt mark on my stomach but I’m fine. The thing is, I crashed on some guy’s property and then I’ve been staying with him ever since, I just woke up yesterday. Now, he’s fixing my car for me but it may take a while. So for one I’m fine so you can tell the police officers listening in on this conversation that I’m fine and I don’t need a huge rescue. Honestly, nothing is pointed at my head or held to my throat. Truth be told I’m sitting at a kitchen table with one of the guy’s friend’s wife whose name is Tanya, she’s actually quite nice. Anyway, and second, I need you to take care of the business while I’m away, make sure everything is going how we planned it and all that alright?” I said.
“Of course, of course.” Lauren replied.
“Now, I’m going to hang up because I think he’s coming in now so I’ll call you later ok? No more police help needed I swear.” I said.
“Ok.” Lauren agreed.
“Bye Lauren.” I smiled.
“Wait, one last thing Emily.” Lauren stopped me from hanging up.
“What?” I asked.
“How’d you know about the police listening in?” Lauren asked in return.
“Good-bye Lauren.” I answered before hanging up the phone.
I sighed and shook my head with a smile on my face as I put the cordless phone on it’s hook.
“Nice chat?” Tanya asked.
“She worries too much.” I laughed as I sat back down.
“No, of course not, I’d call as soon as you didn’t make it when you’d say you were.” Tanya shook her head.
“I guess I’d do the same if Lauren had disappeared for eleven days without hearing a word from her.” I laughed.
Moments later I heard the door open and the sound of men walking into the house made my laughter stop.
When Ronny, Jordan and another man – who was obviously Frank – walked in I looked down at my hands in my lap.
“Well, there she is, Jordan’s new show and tell.” Ronny waved his hand in my direction.
I looked up quickly and met Jordan’s eyes.
Show and tell? I was nobody’s pet.
“Emily, meet my friend Frank, Tanya’s husband. Frank meet Emily, my new house guest while I fix her car.” Jordan made the introductions.
“Nice to meet you Emily, I’m glad you could join Tanya today, she’s been aching for some company lately but I’ve been busy with the herding and the other lady folk have been busy with the youngin’s and taking care of their husbands.” Frank smiled at me brightly – just like Tanya had.
“I’m glad I could be of service to you.” I nodded stiffly.
“Well, Emily I should probably get you back to my house, you’re starting to look a little pale and I don’t want you fainting here. Ronny’s staying here tonight to help Frank watch over the herd so we can go now if you want.” Jordan met my eyes.
“Oh, uh, yeah, sure, ok. Let’s go.” I nodded nervously.
“Ok.” Jordan smiled.
“It was nice meeting you Tanya. I’ll make sure to take you up on that invite soon ok? I’ll try to stop by another time before I leave.” I stood slowly and looked down to meet Tanya’s eyes.
“Ok Emily. It was good to talk to you.” Tanya stood and hugged me.
I tensed at the touch but quickly relaxed when I realized it must have been a common thing around here.
I smiled at Tanya one last time before walking over to the men. I nodded first at Ronny and then at Frank and then looked back at Jordan.
“Let’s go. See you later Frank, Ronny.” Jordan smiled back at me and then gave one last look at his friends.14

***************15

Emily was quiet and stiff as soon as we were out of Frank’s front door.
“Are you ok?” I asked.
“Yeah I’m fine. I don’t feel too well though.” She answered quietly.
“Well, I’ll get you back to my place and let you get some rest. I’ll make sure to lock up the dogs tonight too.” I promised her.
“You don’t have to do that. They were there first.” She shook her head.
“It’d probably be better, besides they won’t mind.” I stated.
“Well, ok then.” She replied.
I opened the truck door for her and once she had climbed in I closed the door. I jogged around to the other side and hopped in quickly. I started the car and turned on the heater once I saw Emily shiver.
“You cold?” I asked.
“Sort of.” Emily nodded.
“The heater should warm you up some. I’ll start a fire once we get home.” I stated.
“No, no, I’ll be fine. You’ve done enough for me already.” Emily replied.
I looked at her like she was crazy.
“Emily, I don’t want you to get sick alright? I’ve already let you slice open your hand. I can make you a fire, it’s what I do every night anyway.” I said.
“No, please, it’s fine.” Emily replied.
“What? Are you afraid of fire?” I asked with a smile on my face as I looked over at her.
She was quiet and she looked down.
“You are aren’t you?” I asked, my smile fading quickly.
“No, I just don’t like the idea of making you build me a fire.” She answered – lying horribly.
“You’re a horrible liar you know. Anyway, I’m not making the fire for you, I’m making it for me and the dogs and then for you.” I stated.
She was quiet.
I drove out of Frank’s driveway and pulled onto the road.
I noticed Emily pull up her knees to her chest and then wrap her arms around them and then resting her chin on her knees.
“Are you that cold?” I asked.
“No, it’s not that I’m cold. I just…I don’t know. Never mind, I guess I was just comfortable or something.” She looked over at me.
“Ok, well please, if you’re comfortable, don’t move.” I smiled.
She didn’t respond.
This girl always had my head spinning, even in her sleep. She made the weirdest movements and slept in the most awkward positions. Then, when she was awake she sat in awkward positions and barely spoke at all and when she did speak her voice was shaky and nervous. She was always tense, rather she be awake or asleep. She tossed and turned and screamed in her sleep and then when she was awake she always had this look in her eyes that held fear and nervousness.
When we pulled up to my house I quickly got out and helped her out of the truck.
She winced when I automatically wrapped my arm around her waist as I lowered her to the ground.
“Sorry, just a habit we have out here.” I apologized quickly.
“It’s not that, you just held onto exactly the place where the seatbelt left it’s mark.” She whispered.
“I’m sorry. Man, I’m always making you hurt. Sorry.” I apologized more sincerely, moving towards her quickly to help stable her. She was bent over a bit and she didn’t look to well.
“It’s fine Jordan. I’m fine.” She jerked away from me quickly.
“Come on, let’s get you in the house ok?” I suggested, placing my hand on the small of her back to guide her inside.
She tensed at my touch but I knew she was unstable so I didn’t remove my hand.
Once inside I guided her over to the couch and then let her seat herself.
“Do you need anything?” I asked.
“I don’t think so.” She shook her head.
“Are you alright?” I asked worriedly.
“Uh, yeah I’m fine, just a little worn out. Maybe I should have stayed here today after all.” Emily answered.
“Well just lay down and relax then, I’ll start making some dinner alright?” I offered.
“Ok.” She nodded.
I left the kitchen and then before I started looking for something to make I filled the dog bowls with food so that the dogs wouldn’t bug Emily or I later on for their dinner.
After that I opened my cupboards and tried to figure out what to make.
“What do you want Emily?” I asked.
“Um…I don’t know really.” She answered.
“How about some grilled cheese sandwiches?” I suggested.
“Sounds good to me.” She nodded.
“Ok then, grilled cheese sandwiches coming right up.” I smiled.16

***************17

Two days later Jordan came inside around noon.
“Emily?” His voice called.
“In the kitchen.” I called back.
He came in.
“What are you doing?” He asked.
“Getting some apple juice.” I answered, holding up the jug to show him.
“Oh, well, I’m afraid I have some bad news.” Jordan stated.
“Oh? And what’s that?” I asked, setting down the apple juice.
“I have your car put back together, but there’s something wrong with the engine. I called and ordered in a new one but I don’t know how long it’s going to take to get here. Then I’ll have to take out the old one and put the new one in.” Jordan answered.
“So what are you saying?” I asked, not at all bothered by the news.
“I don’t think you’re going to be able to leave all too soon as you had planned.” Jordan answered.
“Oh, ok. I’ll call Lauren and have her take care of things for a bit longer.” I shrugged.
“You don’t care that you’re going to have to be here longer?” Jordan asked.
“No, not really. I’m actually excited. I wanted to stay longer and get to know Tanya some more. I’m really coming to enjoy this part of town. It’s not like I have a big and exciting life to get back to once I leave here.” I answered with a shake of my head. I began to pour the apple juice again.
“Well in that case, I was going to head over to Frank’s, you want to come?” Jordan asked.
“Sure!” I exclaimed.
“Let’s go.” Jordan smiled at my enthusiasm.18

***************19

I watched as Tanya greeted Emily as if she had always been around. Emily had come into all of our lives and had slid right in, fitting perfectly. She lived the big city type of life but if she wanted to, she could easily live the country type of life as well.
“Jordan?” Frank’s hand squeezed my shoulder.
I jumped out of my thoughts and turned my head to look at Frank.
“Would you come out to the barn and check out a colt with me?” Frank asked.
“Sure, no problem.” I nodded.
“We’ll be back shortly ladies, take care.” Frank looked at Tanya and Emily.
“Ok.” Tanya nodded to her husband.
Frank led me out to his barn and down the aisle of stalls that were filled with the some of the country’s greatest horses around.
“So, how is everything going over at your ranch Jordan?” Frank questioned me as he stopped in front of a stall and began to unlock it.
“Fine. I need to go out within the week and bring the horses back in and pen them in, start settling them in for the winter.” I answered.
“Good idea, give me a call and I’ll come over and help you out.” Frank offered.
“Sure thing. You could bring Tanya over in the morning so she and Emily could visit throughout the day while we’re out herding up the horses.” I said.
“I could do that, that is, if Emily is still staying with you.” Frank replied.
“She will be, I have to fix up her engine in her car before she can go anywhere.” I stated.
“Oh, I see. So she’ll be staying with you even longer now eh?” Frank asked.
“Is there something you’re trying to say Frank? If there is just say it, don’t beat around the bush.” I answered, noticing my best friend’s tone when he had questioned me.
“I’m just saying Jordan, you’ve been a great help to her, and I’m sure she appreciates it, but she’s not meant to live out here. She’s a city girl, she owns a gosh dang hotel for crying out loud, she doesn’t want to live on a ranch, and even if she did she couldn’t because she’s not cut out for it. She was raised in the city and that’s where she’ll stay.” Frank sighed heavily before answering.
“Why are you saying this Frank?” I asked.
“Because I’ve seen the way that you’ve been looking at her Jordan and I have a feeling that you want her to stay with you, and you want her to become this country girl. I’m sorry to say it buddy, but it’s not going to happen. She’s not the one for you.” Frank answered.
“What are you talking about Frank? I’m helping a lady out who crashed into a tree on my property a few weeks back. I’m not wanting to marry the girl.” I said in disbelief.
“Jordan, give me a break. You like the girl and you want her to be your Cinderella, but believe me buddy that’s not who she is. She’s just a city girl who is stuck in the wilderness and is just dying to get back to her lovely, big city life.” Frank replied.
“What if she’s not Frank? What if she really is the one for me? What if she wants to get out of her city life and wants to come and live with me on my ranch in the country out of the hustle and bustle of the city?” I asked.
“She’s not the one for you Jordan. She’s meant for the city.” Frank sighed and shook his head.
I sighed and nodded. “You’re right. She’s just a city girl who I need to help get back to her big city life.”
Frank only nodded.20


***************21

The ride back to Jordan’s ranch was dead silent – very abnormal compared to the normal, fun and lively chatty ride to and from places with Jordan. The only sound was the sound of the pouring down rain that beat against Jordan’s truck and the windshield.
When we got back to Jordan’s ranch Jordan led me inside and then took all three of his dogs and headed out to the barn without a word to me.
“Wonder what’s wrong with him?” I thought out loud. Usually if Jordan would go out at night he’d let me know where he was going and about when he’d be back. Tonight, he hadn’t said a word.
I shook my head and then headed to the bathroom and took a shower.
When I got out of the shower Jordan still wasn’t inside so I grabbed the sweatshirt Jordan had given me to wear and pulled it on before heading outside to the barn.
The dogs were lying outside a stall and Jordan had a huge bay stallion cross-tied so he could brush him down.
“Hey, I was just checking up on you, making sure you’re alright.” I said quietly as I approached Jordan.
Jordan didn’t respond.
“Are you mad at me or something?” I asked.
Jordan still didn’t respond.
“Did I do something that I don’t know about?” I asked.
No response.
“Do I need to leave?” I questioned.
When Jordan didn’t object I sighed. “Alright, I’ll just grab my bags and uh, call a cab. Just have Tanya call me when you’re done with my car. I’ll send my brother to come pick it up.”
Jordan stopped brushing the stallion for a moment, hesitated and then slowly began to brush the stallion again.
“Ok then. Thank you for everything. I’ll have Jerry bring you a check for all your hard work and hospitality.” I said slowly and then turned and slowly headed out of the barn.
I was almost back to the door when I heard Jordan called my name.
I stopped dead in my tracks and whirled around.
Jordan was jogging after me.
When he reached me he was breathing heavily but he stopped in front of me, locked eyes with me and said, “Don’t leave, I don’t want you to go” before lifting his hand, cupping one side of my face and pulled me into a fiery kiss.
I found myself quickly responding to him and wrapping my arms around his neck and kissing him back.
By the time we pulled away Jordan’s hands were resting on my hips.
Jordan rested his forehead against mine.
“Please don’t leave Emily.” He pleaded breathlessly.
“I didn’t think you wanted me here anymore.” I stated.
“No, that’s not it. I was just upset because Frank said that you wouldn’t want to live this type of life with me, on a ranch, hours away from the big city that you’re used to.” Jordan replied.
“Why would he say that?” I asked.
“Because he was concerned that I was getting too attached to you and he didn’t want me getting hurt by some big city girl.” Jordan answered.
“Is it true?” I asked.
“Is what true?” Jordan asked in return.
“Frank was concerned that you were getting too attached to me, is that true?” I explained.
“If you’re asking if I like you then the answer is yes. As for being too attached to you, that is true, I like having you around too much.” Jordan stated.
I smiled at that.
“Can you stay with me?” Jordan asked.
“Jordan…I really do like it out here…but I have to get back to my business. I can’t just leave Lauren to run my company for me. I have family and friends back home that I really should get back to.” I answered sadly.
Jordan’s face fell. I knew I had hurt him. I knew he had been hoping I would tell him I would leave everything behind and move on with my life with him.
“I’m so sorry.” I apologized.
“No, it’s ok. I should have known better.” Jordan shook his head and moved away from me slowly.
I fought back the tears that were burning in my eyes, turned and headed into the house quickly.
I packed up my clothes into my bags that Jordan had brought in from my car. Then I called a cab.
When the cab arrived I carried my bags out and the driver put them in the trunk. As I turned and opened the car door I saw Jordan standing out in the rain, having came out of the barn, watching me sadly.
“I left Lauren’s number. Call her when my car is finished. I’ll send a check with my brother.” I said to him.
He didn’t respond.
I turned and got into the cab.22

***************23

My heart broke as I stood in the pouring rain and watched as Emily pulled away in the cab.
I stared at the place that the cab had disappeared into until Lou came and sat beside me and nudged my hand with his nose.
I looked down at him.
“She’s gone buddy.” I said to the dog.
Lou whined.
“Let’s get inside, we’re going to get sick.” I sighed.
With that I walked back into the barn. I put Torro, the stallion I had been brushing when Emily had come in to see if I was ok, back into his stall and then I fed all the horses their nightly feed before heading into the house.
When I entered my house it felt empty. The dogs didn’t seem to fill the emptiness as they always had. They were unusually quiet and just lay around.
I looked over at the couch where Emily had been sleeping and let out a heavy sigh. She had come and filled my life with a happiness I hadn’t experienced in a long time. Then, all too quickly, it vanished.
I walked slowly to the couch and just sat down.
Lou jumped up beside me and rested his head on my lap. Cleo came and lay at my feet and Theo sat in front of my and put his head next to my leg.
“Guess it’s back to where we used to be guys.” I said to the dogs.
Theo licked my hand.
“I know boy, I’ll miss her too.” I looked down at him.24

***************25

ONE YEAR LATER…26

***************27

“Hey sis. How are you doing?” Jerry, my older brother, asked as he entered my office one late afternoon.
“I’m going crazy with all this business stuff going on.” I answered honestly. My brother was the only one I ever admitted my stress to.
“Maybe you need a vacation?” Jerry suggested.
“I took a vacation last month Jerry.” I declined.
“No, that was a business trip to get another one of your hotels built in Hawaii. That wasn’t a vacation, you were there for work.” Jerry argued.
“Jerry.” I warned.
“Come on Emi. This isn’t good for you and you know it. You haven’t stopped working this hard since your accident last year.” Jerry stated. “In fact, you’ve buried yourself in your work since you returned that night. You haven’t taken a break for anything. No fun nights out with friends, no vacations, no breaks.”
I looked up and glared at him.
“What happened on that trip Emi? You haven’t been the same since you got back.” Jerry questioned.
“Nothing. I got in a car accident and stayed with a man who fixed my car. End of story.” I stated.
Jerry rolled his eyes.
“Was there something you needed Jerry or were you just coming in to pester me about my work schedule?” I asked.
“I’m going to propose to Kayla. Tonight.” Jerry answered.
I looked up with a bright smile.
“That’s great Jer!” I exclaimed.
“I’m a little nervous.” Jerry said.
“Well of course you are! You should be! How are you going to do it?” I replied with a slight laugh.
“I’m taking her to the restaurant that we had our first date on, and I’ve made reservations for the same exact table. I also had them bring in the same wine that we had that night.” Jerry stated.
“That’s amazing.” I replied with a smile.
“Do you think she’ll say yes Em?” Jerry asked.
“Of course she’ll say yes, Jerry! She’s in love with you.” I answered excitedly.
“Well, I’m going to go home and shower and try to calm down some before I go out and pick her up. I’ll call you and let you know what she says tonight ok?” Jerry stood.
“Alright. Good luck.” I nodded.
“Bye Sis. Don’t drown yourself in your work too much ok?” Jerry came over and kissed the top of my head.
“I won’t.” I laughed.
When he was gone I let out a sigh of relief and sat back in my chair. My brother was right. Ever since I had returned from Jordan’s ranch I hadn’t been the same. Unless I busied my mind with other things all I could ever think about what Jordan. How was he doing? He probably hated me, same with Frank, Tanya and Ronny. He hadn’t taken the check from Jerry but he had completely fixed my car.
I took a deep breath and let my mind wonder about Jordan. What was he doing now?28

***************29

I patted Kooli’s neck. She had just given birth to two colts who looked very promising.
“Good job girl. They’re beautiful.” I said to the mare.
Kooli nickered.
“You always give me the best looking foals, but twins? I really wasn’t expecting that one sweetheart.” I rubbed the mare’s ear.
Lou came in barking.
The twin colts got wide-eyed.
Kooli became protectively tense.
“Lou, out.” I ordered the dog.
Lou backed out of the stall and waited out in the aisle of the barn.
“Alright girl. I’ll leave you three to rest.” I patted the mare’s neck once again.
The mare nudged me playfully.
“I’ll be back later.” I promised.
Then I walked out of the stall and closed it.
“Alright Lou, what’s up?” I turned my attention to my dog.
Lou barked and then headed out of the barn.
I followed after him wearily, tired after a sleepless night.
I didn’t see anything out of the ordinary as I followed Lou into the house. He led me to the back room where I locked the dogs when I had company over.
When I reached the room I saw Cleo laying on the bed and panting heavily.
“You too? What is up with the females giving birth tonight?” I asked walking over to the pregnant dog.
Cleo whined.
“Alright, I’m here for you now.” I stroked the Border Collie’s head.
A few hours later I had a batch of five Australian Shepherd, Border Collie mix puppies to add to my family.
Theo, the Australian Shepherd father, came in and sniffed at the puppies curiously.
“Welcome to fatherhood old man.” I patted the dog’s back.
Then I stood and headed to my bed to catch up on some sleep.30

***************31

”So when are you coming home? Kayla’s driving me crazy with all her phone calls.” I asked my brother over the phone.
“I have to be here for a few more days and then I’m driving home. I’d say about five days.” Jerry answered.
“Why didn’t you take your fiancé with you?” I asked.
“She has work, and this is a business trip.” Jerry answered.
“Ugh, well you could have had someone else make sure to keep her occupied. I’m busy with work and every day she calls trying to get me to go out to lunch with her and out to dinner with her at night.” I rolled my eyes.
“Have you?” Jerry asked.
“No, I’ve been too busy.” I answered.
“Emily!” Jerry exclaimed a little angrily.
“What? You know I don’t go out much. I’m really busy right now. I have three other hotels being built! I barely have time to go home and get a few hours of sleep right now. I don’t have time for dates.” I said.
“When I get home I am going to send you off for a week and I will put guards at all of your businesses so that you can’t do any work. I’ll turn off your phone too, so you can’t do phone work.” Jerry replied.
“Fine, I’ll go out with her tomorrow!” I exclaimed.
“No, I’m sending you away for a week. Admit it, you need a break.” Jerry argued.
“No I don’t. I am perfectly fine. A little busy, but I’m fine all the same.” I said.
“Whatever, you’re still getting kicked out of work for a week.” Jerry replied.
“I’ll take a vacation after the hotels are built and this sale goes through ok?” I rolled my eyes.
“No. You’ll make an excuse after that.” Jerry argued.
“Why do you have to be so bossy?” I asked.
“I’m your older brother, it’s my job.” Jerry answered.
“Whatever. I have to go.” I scoffed.
“Alright. I’ll see you in a few days.” Jerry said.
“Bye.” I replied before hanging up.
Then I went back to work.32

***************33

Frank and I were in the corral lounging a yearling stallion of mine when a car pulled up.
It was a 2008 Ford Mustang.
Frank looked at me in question and I shrugged. No one I knew owned a car like that. No one in town owned anything like that either.
The owner of the car got out and walked towards the corral. It was a man who looked familiar but who I couldn’t remember where I had met him before.
“Here, keep him going.” I handed Frank the lounge line.
“Ok.” Frank nodded.
I walked over to the fence, climbed over and then headed towards the man.
“Can I help you?” I asked.
“We’ve met before, although not on the best terms. I’m Jerry Kale.” The man answered.
I tensed at the last name.
“Emily’s brother.” I nodded.
“Yes. Look, I was just…uh…wondering if we could talk a bit?” Jerry said.
“Um, I’m in the middle of something right now but if you want you could wait until I’m done.” I replied.
“Alright.” Jerry nodded.
Together we walked over to the corral. I climbed the fence and went back to Frank. Jerry stayed outside the corral and watched.
“Who is he?” Frank asked.
“That is Jerry. He’s the brother of Emily Kale.” I answered.
Frank’s face tensed and I saw his jaw twitch.
“It’s alright. He just wanted to talk. Look, I’m going to finish up with Jake here and then I’m going to talk with Jerry. Why don’t you head home? Come over tomorrow morning and we’ll bring the rest of the horses in.” I said to Frank.
“Are you sure you’ll be ok?” Frank asked.
“Yeah, Frank. I’ll be fine.” I answered.
“Well, if you’re sure…” Frank hesitated.
“I’m fine Frank.” I said.
“Ok, I’ll be over in the morning then.” Frank nodded.
He turned and headed out of the corral.
After a while I brought Jake, the yearling, to a stop and then led him into the barn, Jerry following me quietly.
“He’s a nice horse.” Jerry complimented me.
“You know horses?” I asked.
“A little. My step-father owned a racing stable. I know Thoroughbreds better, but these are some nice Quarter horses.” Jerry answered.
“I have all different breeds. I have a few Arabians, a few Mustangs, and a few Thoroughbreds, but I mostly have Quarter horses.” I stated.
“Well, they’re all fine looking animals.” Jerry replied.
“Thank you.” I nodded.
“So…you’re probably wondering why I’m here…” Jerry started.
“Let me guess, Emily wants you to give me that check for her car?” I interrupted him.
“No. That’s not it.” Jerry shook his head.
“Oh…um, ok. Then I have no idea why you’re here.” I said.
“I want to know what happened here, when Emily was here.” Jerry replied. “I mean, I know you probably haven’t thought of my sister much since she left but…” He started to add.
“There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t think of Emily.” I cut him off.
“Oh.” Jerry looked shocked.
“The long story, or the short story?” I asked.
“The long one is probably better.” Jerry answered.
“Emily crashed into a few trees that are on my property. I was out hunting. I found her, got her out of the car and brought her into my home. I took care of her head wound and then watched over her over the next nine days. She woke up a few days later. She hung around for a few days, a few days that changed my life, and then, the night she left my friend Frank, the one that was here earlier made me realize that she wasn’t the country type of girl. I tried to get it through my head. I guess I wasn’t hiding my emotions very well because as I was grooming a stallion of mine Emily came out and asked me if I was all right. Then she told me she was going to leave, because she felt I didn’t want her around anymore, and that she’d send you to get the car. Well, as she was heading back to the house to pack her bags I raced after her and kissed her. Then I asked her to stay here, with me, to forget her city life, and start a new, country life with me. She told me she couldn’t. Then she left.” I explained.
“So you asked her to stay with you? That’s why she left?” Jerry asked.
“Yep.” I nodded.
“Why did you ask her to stay?” Jerry asked.
“I fell in love with her over the few days that she stayed here.” I answered truthfully.
“Do you still love her?” Jerry asked hesitantly.
“Yes, although I try to distract myself from it. It hurts to think about way too much.” I answered.
“Huh.” Was all Jerry said.
“What?” I asked, noticing a look come across his face.
“She hasn’t been the same since she returned from here. Emily has seemed to forget all about life outside of work. She works, and works, and works barely ever stopping. I don’t think she’s taken a rest from working since she returned. I’ve always tried to figure out what happened here that changed her so much that made her feel like she had to work to be ok…and now I see that she was only distracting herself.” Jerry answered.
“What do you mean?” I asked.
“I think my sister fell in love with you too and now she’s been working so hard to try and get over you. It’s not working, that’s why she keeps working harder and harder.” Jerry answered.
I took a deep breath.
“Look, Jerry, I’m glad you’ve found the reason for your sister’s work addiction, but…I don’t know what you can do about it.” I said.
“Oh, I can’t do anything…but you can.” Jerry replied.
“No. I can’t. I have to stay here and take care of things.” I argued.
“Jordan, do you still love my sister?” Jerry asked.
I looked him right in the eyes.
“Do you still love my sister?” Jerry asked.
“Yes.” I answered tightly.
“Then you can do something.” Jerry stated.
“What do you want me to do, Jerry? Huh? You want me to go to her and tell her that I’m in love with her? That I haven’t been able to stop thinking about her for the last year since she left? That no matter how hard I try, no matter what I do, I can’t get her out of my mind?” I replied angrily.
“Yes. That’s exactly what I want you to do.” Jerry nodded.
“Well I can’t do that!” I hissed and then stormed out of the barn, leaving Jerry behind.34

***************35

Jerry got home a day later then he had told me he would be home.
He came into my office the next afternoon.
“Hey, how was your trip?” I asked him.
“Most of it was great. The way home, wasn’t all to great.” He answered.
“So, did you seal the deal? Are you going to pick up Derek’s racing stables?” I asked him.
“Yep. They’re mine, all of his beloved horses.” Jerry answered.
“How did you get him to accept?” I asked.
“It wasn’t hard. I mean, he’s been our dad since I was six. He would do anything for me. He just handed over the papers. He’s retiring and I guess he was going to ask me to take it over anyway.” Jerry answered.
“Cool.” I nodded.
“I told Kayla last night. She’s so excited. She asked me to buy her a Quarter horse and keep it at the stables. I laughed and told her there was no way I could keep a Quarter horse at a Thoroughbred racing stables.” Jerry stated.
“Why not? It’s one horse. It won’t kill the bloodlines if you have a Quarter horse boarding in the stables.” I replied.
“She said the same thing. I told her I would think about it.” Jerry rolled his eyes.
“Well, good. A Quarter horse would make a great wedding gift.” I said.
“Well I don’t want to go through all the trouble of finding a Quarter horse after going and buying a Thoroughbred stables.” Jerry replied.
“Fine. I’ll buy it for her. The horse will be my wedding gift to Kayla and me finding one and buying it will be my wedding gift to you.” I stated.
“Fine.” Jerry replied.
“What color of Quarter horse does she want?” I asked him.
“A sorrel stallion.” Jerry answered.
“Oh great.” I rolled my eyes.
“I told her if she gets one she is getting a gelding. Don’t you buy a stallion Emi. Not unless you want to get hurt and want your money to be spent on a horse that will go straight to the glue factory.” Jerry warned me.
“Fine, I’ll get her a gelding.” I rolled my eyes but still agreed.
“Thank you.” Jerry nodded.
Then he stood and headed for the door.
“How was your lunch date with Kayla by the way?” He asked.
“It was great.” I answered.
“Well, tomorrow, don’t try coming into the office. I’ll have guards everywhere.” Jerry stated.
“Ugh!” I threw my pen at him.
“That’s not very nice.” Jerry said.
“Well you making me leave in the middle of a big project isn’t very nice either.” I replied.
“Well, I’m sure you’ll make the best out of your vacation.” Jerry smirked before going out the door.36

***************37

Jerry had stayed the night the day he had showed up and during his short stay I had gotten to know him. He told me a little about his life, he was engaged to a lawyer named Kayla. He had just recently bought racing stables from his stepfather and his best friend was his sister. He had told me all about Emily and her recent success since she had left. He also told me that he didn’t think she was truly happy and all he wanted was to see her be at least content with life. They had had a rough life. Their father had died when Jerry was five and Emily only three, but she had known him better then Jerry had. Then when Emily was nineteen their mother had died due to a car accident. Jerry had accepted their step-father easily, but Emily hadn’t. She had always sort of resented him for taking her dad’s place, and since then had always had difficulty with male relationships, even if they were only friendships. I had learned a lot about him and Emily, and I had liked knowing it.
After he had left I worked even harder then I had been to get Emily off my mind, but things only got worse.
I couldn’t stop remembering her smile or the way her eyes had lit up when she had met a newborn foal. I remembered the way she slept with her arm covering her eyes. And I remembered the way her hair flowed all around her shoulders when she let it down, bringing out her beautiful, big, brown eyes.
“Jordan?” Frank’s voice called the morning that Jerry had left.
“In the back room with the puppies.” I called over my shoulder as I set down the runt of the litter.
“Hey, ready to bring in them horses?” Frank asked.
“Yeah. Ronny was going to join us too. He should be here any minute.” I answered.
“He’s already here. He’s saddling up his horse as we speak. Didn’t you hear us pull up and holler for you that we were here?” Frank looked at me in question.
“No, sorry. The puppies kind of took over my attention.” I lied.
“You big old softy.” Frank rolled his eyes.
“Alright, I’ll grab my hat and then we can go.” I stated.
“Alright.” Frank nodded before heading out of the room.
We rode out to the mountains of my property where my horses all were at for grazing. Ronny and Frank talked and laughed the whole way there but I was quiet, my mind full of thoughts of Emily.
As we were coming back in I didn’t even notice one of my fillies heading away from the herd, right in front of me.
Ronny rode out and raced after her, roping her and leading her back in.
“Didn’t you see her heading out Jordan?” Ronny asked me as he released her to join the rest of the herd.
“What? Oh, sorry. No.” I shook my head, coming back to reality.
“Are you all right buddy?” Frank asked me.
“Yeah, I’m fine.” I lied.
“Liar. What’s on your mind?” Ronny asked.
“I bet I could tell you.” Frank answered.
“What?” Ronny looked at him in question.
“Emily.” Frank stated.
“Don’t say her name!” I hissed at him.
“Sorry pal, but you know it’s the truth.” Frank shrugged.
“I thought you were over her?” Ronny asked.
“I am.” I answered.
“No, you weren’t and it didn’t help matters much that her brother stopped by last night either.” Frank stated.
“He what? What did he want?” Ronny asked.
“He wanted to know what happened here the night Emily left. He says she hasn’t been the same since she left, that she’s buried herself in her work and hasn’t taken a break from it.” I answered.
“She can’t forget you?” Frank asked.
“Apparently not. Jerry thinks she’s in love with me and she doesn’t want to be so she’s distracting herself and trying to forget all about me.” I answered.
“Go after her Jordan! We all know you love the girl!” Ronny exclaimed.
“No.” I shook my head.
“Jordan, you stubborn-*bunny* boy. Get some sense into that head of yours! You have to go after her! You’ve been pining over her since she left and she’s obviously doing the same! It’s obvious you two need to be together!” Frank hollered at me.
“I can’t. She won’t leave her place, and I won’t leave mine.” I shook my head again.
“Oh, well. I guess one day she’ll move on and find some fine and dandy rich lawyer man and marry him up.” Ronny said.
“Yeah, and then they’ll live on in their big city lives and she’ll forget all about you and this place.” Frank added.
That snapped something in my head.
“Frank? Ronny? Lock ‘em up in the pen. Take care of ‘em. I’ll be back in a couple days!” I exclaimed before urging my stallion into a full on gallop.
I was going after her.38

***************39

I had been at the cabin for two days when I heard a car pull up in the driveway. The cabin belonged to my stepfather but he had let me use it for the week, and any other time I would want it. It was fully stocked with food, blankets and necessities. The workers lived there year round in the workers’ quarters, which was just an apartment building that was located behind the barn.
I looked out the window and saw Jerry’s car pulling into the driveway.
“Couldn’t go long without me.” I smiled to myself.
I rushed down the stairs and out the front door towards the car.
When I looked in the car I froze.
In the driver’s seat was Jordan and Jerry wasn’t anywhere in his car.
I stared at Jordan who sat in the front seat, staring back at me intensely.
Finally Jordan got out of the car, very slowly.
“What are you doing here? Why do you have Jerry’s car?” I asked, finally able to speak.
“He lent it to me. I took a cab and the fare was already so much…he lent me his car.” Jordan answered.
I closed my eyes and inhaled deeply. I hadn’t realized how much I had missed him, his voice was relaxing but gave me the chills and butterflies.
“How did you find me?” I asked.
“Your brother wrote out directions on how to get here…I followed them.” Jordan answered.
“I wouldn’t doubt it. Look, it’s freezing out here, why don’t you come inside?” I offered.
“Ok.” Jordan nodded.
We headed inside the house, not speaking.
“Would you like something to drink? Are you hungry? Can I get you anything?” I asked.
“No, no. I’m fine.” Jordan declined.
“Why are you here Jordan?” I asked.
“Um…I…uh…I…I have a horse.” Jordan stammered.
“Yeah, I know. You have many horses, and three dogs.” I nodded.
“Actually I have eight dogs right now.” Jordan said.
I gave him a questioning look.
“Cleo and Theo had puppies. Anyway, no. I have a horse for your future sister-in-law.” Jordan explained.
“You mean…Jerry set me up for this?” I asked.
“No. I came looking for you…because I needed to talk to you. Jerry told me you were going to be out looking for a Quarter horse for his fiancé. I have the horse you’re looking for.” Jordan answered.
“What did you need to talk to me about?” I asked.
“Um…I uh…Tanya’s pregnant.” Jordan stated.
“Really? How far along is she?” I asked.
“Uh…a…few…months?” Jordan answered awkwardly.
“Wait, wait, wait. You drove all the way here to tell me Tanya was pregnant?” I asked.
“No. Well, yeah…but no.” Jordan answered.
“Which is it? Yes or no?” I asked.
“Both. I drove down here to see you, but I was going to tell you about Tanya too because she called and asked me to.” Jordan answered.
“Oh, I see.” I nodded.
“Yeah. She’s really excited. It’s a boy.” Jordan said.
“That’s exciting.” I replied.
“Ok…look, I thought that…well, I came here kind of hoping that maybe we could…um…hang out? I just needed vacation. Frank and Ronny are taking care of the ranch for me. So…what do you say? Will you keep me company while I’m on vacation?” Jordan asked.
“Well…I’m only on vacation myself for about five days…but I might be able to call Jerry and talk him into taking care of things a little longer.” I answered.
“Great. That’s great.” Jordan nodded.
“Ok. Well then, bring in your bags and I’ll show you your room.” I stated.
“Oh, right. Bags.” Jordan replied.40

***************41

I scolded myself and yelled at myself in my head as Emily showed me my room. Once she left me alone for a while I called myself stupid over and over out loud.
“Am I interrupting something?” Emily asked.
I turned around to see Emily standing in the doorway with her hand raised, ready to knock.
“Oh, um…no. Sorry. Did you need something?” I asked.
“Um, I was going to let you know that I was going to make some lunch. Would you like anything?” Emily offered.
“Sure, thanks.” I nodded.
“Ok.” Emily smiled slightly.
“Do you need any help?” I offered.
“No I got it.” Emily declined.
“Are you sure?” I asked.
“Yeah. I’m sure. I will let you know when it’s done ok?” Emily answered then she turned to walk away.
“Hey Emily?” I said to stop her.
“Yeah?” She stopped and turned.
“Thanks for letting me stay. It’s really good seeing you again.” I said.
“You’re welcome.” Emily nodded before turning and leaving again.
I finished unpacking and then decided to go downstairs and check on Emily.
She was standing at the stove with her back turned to me, totally oblivious to my presence.
“Hey, that smells really good.” I stated.
She looked over her shoulder at me.
“Thanks.” She smiled.
“What is it?” I asked, moving closer.
“Steak, fried potatoes and corn on the cob.” Emily answered, turning her attention back to the food on the stove.
“Sounds delicious.” I complimented her.
“Thanks. It’s really the only ‘big’ meal I know how to make. It was my step-dad’s favorite.” Emily said.
“Oh yeah?” I asked.
“Yeah. He especially liked the fried potatoes.” Emily answered with a little laughter in her voice.
“They must be something special. I can’t wait to try them.” I said.
“Not really.” Emily replied.
“You said your step-dad…where was your biological father?” I asked, although I already knew. I wanted to test her, see if she would open up to me.
“He passed away when I was young. My mom remarried Todd three years later.” Emily answered.
“Oh. Is that a bad thing?” I asked, catching a hint of anger in Emily’s tone.
“No. I just couldn’t believe it was so fast. I mean, if the man I loved died I would probably never re-marry. Derek was a good man though.” Emily answered.
“That’s good.” I said.
“Yeah. Well, this is just about done. If you want you could get two plates down and put them at the table.” Emily replied. “That first cabinet to the left.”
“Ok. Will do.” I nodded and headed to the cabinet she had pointed to.42

***************
”So tell me, what have you been doing for the last year?” Jordan asked me as I brought the food over to the table and sat down.
“Work.” I answered shortly.
“That’s it?” Jordan asked.
“Yeah, pretty much. This is my first vacation that isn’t business related.” I answered.
“Why?” Jordan asked.
“I don’t know. I just got really busy. I mean I have other buildings being built and the business is doing good but I always have meetings both in town and out of town.” I answered.
“I can understand that.” Jordan nodded.
“So what about you? How’s the ranch?” I asked.
“Great. I have just kept busy with the horses, bring them in, branding them, training them, selling them, breeding them. You know?” Jordan answered.
“Yeah.” I nodded.
“So, you said you have a horse for my future sister in law. How did you know I was looking for one?” I asked.
“I told you, Jerry told me.” Jordan answered.
“When?” I asked.
“When I was at the house, looking for you.” Jordan answered.
“So, how do you expect me to check it out?” I asked.
“What?” Jordan asked, confusion on his face.
“The horse you have for Kayla.” I answered.
“Oh, um…I was going to see if you would come out to the ranch.” Jordan stated.
“Um, I don’t know if I could do that.” I replied.
“Why not? You’re on vacation right now aren’t you?” Jordan asked.
“Well yeah but…that’s farther away then here. If something were to happen with the business…I would be too far away to get back quickly.” I answered.
“I will drive you back or pay for a plane ticket.” Jordan stated.
“There aren’t any planes for that short of a distance.” I replied.
“I’ll pay for a helicopter then.” Jordan said.
“Fine. We can leave tomorrow.” I replied.
“If you don’t mind I would like to leave the day after tomorrow, to uh, rest you know?” Jordan suggested.
“Right, you are on vacation too. You didn’t travel all this way to just go straight back.” I nodded.
“Right.” Jordan nodded.
“Ok then. We can plan to leave the day after tomorrow or the day after that if you want to stay longer.” I said.
“Ok. We will figure it out.” Jordan replied.
“So…let’s eat already. I didn’t cook all this food for it to go cold before we can eat it.” I stated, changing subjects.
“Great. I’m starving.” Jordan smiled.
Then we began eating, talking throughout the meal cheerfully.
After dinner Jordan helped me clear the table and then clean the dishes. Then he headed up to his room for the night, exhausted from his long journey.
I grabbed a sweatshirt and headed out to the barn. It was raining so I got a little chilled on my way over but when I got into the barn the smell of the horses made me smile. Derek hadn’t kept many horses here at the cabin, because most of his other horses were racing horses, but he had a few quarter horses at the cabin for riding around on the property. I went to my all-time favorite horse, Big Boy, a massive Friesian stallion that Derek had bought for me for my twenty-first birthday.
“Hey Big Boy. How are you buddy?” I asked as I greeted the stallion and started stroking his neck.
The stallion snorted.
“I will take you out for a ride in the morning alright?” I said to him.
He nudged my pocket.
“You didn’t forget.” I laughed as I took out an apple from my pocket.
The stallion munched happily on the apple.
“Oh boy, what do I do? I like Jordan so much but we are from totally different worlds! It could never work out!” I exclaimed quietly.
My stallion shook his head as he finished the apple.
I laughed.
“Well, I’m going in for bed. Good-night boy.” I patted his neck.
Big Boy snorted his goodbye.
I headed out of the stable and back into the cabin. I headed up the stairs and stopped in front of Jordan’s door.
“Jordan?” I knocked lightly.
“Yes?” Jordan asked from inside the room.
“I was going to go out for a ride in the morning and I was wondering if you would want to come along?” I offered.
Jordan opened the door.
“A ride?” He asked.
“On horses.” I nodded.
“There are horses around here?” Jordan asked.
“Derek’s.” I nodded again.
“Sure. I’ll join you.” Jordan smiled.
“Ok. I’m off to bed now though so if you’re going to be up much later try to be quiet ok?” I said.
“Ok. Night.” Jordan replied.
“Night.” I smiled before walking away.43

***************44

The next morning I woke up and got dressed. Then I went downstairs to find Emily sitting on the couch reading a book.
“Good morning.” I greeted her.
She looked up from her book and smiled.
“I was wondering how long it would take you to wake up.” She stated.
“Well, hey, what can I say? It’s been a while since I have gotten to sleep in. Usually the dogs come and wake me up.” I replied.
Emily laughed.
“Well, it looks like you’re already dressed and ready to head out. So, let’s go.” She said.
“Alright.” I nodded.
We walked out to the barn together, talking about how we had slept.
After we had entered the barn she went to a stall that held a huge Friesian stallion whom she called Big Boy. She led him out of the stall and then crossed tied him easily. Then she fed him and apple and patted his neck before walking away back to me.
“So, take your pick. Ride whomever you want. They are all great horses. Highly well trained from the best.” Emily said to me.
“Well, we will have to see about that.” I replied.
“Oh right, you train your horses don’t you? Well, let’s see how well your training really is.” Emily smirked.
“Ok.” I smiled.
I walked past all the horses and checked them out, trying to decide which horse to ride for the day. I finally decided on a chestnut Quarter horse stallion.
“Ok, that’s Chester. Go ahead and take him out, cross tie him and then follow me to the equipment room.” Emily stated.
I obeyed and then silently followed her to the equipment room. We both grabbed a saddle and bridle and headed back to our horses. We both saddled our horses quite quickly and in no time at all we were off, headed out of the barn and out to the trails.
“So you never told me you rode when you were at my ranch. You never even hinted that you liked horses.” I said, starting a conversation.
“Well, I don’t really ride a lot. It’s been at least a year and a half since I’ve last ridden and when it comes to riding, I only ride Big Boy.” Emily explained.
“Why? Wouldn’t you be more afraid of that huge stallion then a gentle, smaller mare?” I asked.
“No. Big Boy is just a big baby honestly. I spoil him. The other horses are all the same here. They are trained the same way that Derek’s racing horses are, minus the racing part. They are really classy. Big Boy was still highly well trained but he was still the same stallion afterwards. He’s not mean when a female is around, or when other stallions are around like the rest of the horses.” Emily answered.
“Chester seems to be fine right now.” I pointed out.
“That’s because Chester is used to being taken out with Big Boy. Jerry used to ride him a lot with me.” Emily stated.
“Oh, I see.” I nodded.
“So you have plenty of horses and experience with them. How do you think Chester and Big Boy are?” She asked.
“Chester seems to be used to different ways of control but Big Boy seems to just move along with you, whatever you say.” I answered.
“Like I said, they are all classy and used to the way they were trained. You seem to be handling it fine though.” Emily said.
“Oh, yeah. I’ve received a few horses that have been trained just like Chester so I’m guessing that he will have to be ridden like I ride those other horses.” I replied.
“Well, we can either go up on the trails, or we could go through this one trail that leads to the beach. Which one?” Emily stopped Big Boy and pointed the ways out to me.
“If we were to go through the trails is there a way to get to the beach through them?” I asked.
“You mean like we could go through these trails and then somehow get to the beach after them?” Emily asked in return.
“Yeah.” I nodded.
“Yes, but I didn’t pack a lunch for us or anything. This will be an all day trip.” Emily stated.
“That’s ok. We can eat when we come back and we have water bottles already.” I replied.
“Ok. This should be fun.” Emily nodded with a smile.45

***************46

We rode through the trails happily. We talked about anything and everything but nothing in particular. Jordan asked me about my family and work and I asked him about his friends and his ranch.
“So, do you have a family?” I asked a bit shyly.
“I have a little sister and my parents.” Jordan answered.
“Really? How come I never met them when I was up there?” I asked.
“You could have, I was just so busy fixing your car and taking care of the ranch that I didn’t really have time. Then we had to help Frank with his fence and bringing his horses back in. It was a crazy time when you were there. Maybe when you come next time to check out that horse then I could drive you over there and you can meet my mom and dad and little sister.” Jordan answered.
“Ok, that would be really nice.” I nodded.
“So, what about you. Do you have any other siblings besides Jerry?” Jordan asked.
“Nope. It’s always been just him and me. After my mom passed away we still stay in contact with Derek because Jerry really liked him and he had been a really great guy but otherwise it was just Jerry and me.” I answered.
“That’s cool. So I take it you two are pretty close then?” Jordan asked.
“Yeah. We’re really close. He worries about me a lot though.” I answered.
“I can see that. I mean you said it yourself that you have been busy with work that you haven’t had time for anything else really. That can really mess you up you know. You forget the joys in life and the people who you used to be really close with are suddenly not so close anymore because work came before them.” Jordan stated.
”Well, I don’t usually do that. I just…this year has been…crazy.” I replied.
“How so?” Jordan asked.
“It just seems like if I’m not at work, busying myself then I’m all alone and I feel empty.” I answered honestly.
“What do you think caused it?” Jordan asked.
“I think I have just realized that I really am alone. I mean, Jerry’s getting married and after that between work and the wife, and eventually kids, he won’t have a lot of time to just go hang out like we used to. When I come home from work, I’m all alone, I don’t even have a dog to welcome me, or a cat or even fish. It’s just me. That’s when I feel completely empty and all alone.” I answered.
“What about when you’re with friends? Do you still feel alone?” Jordan asked.
“Not completely.” I answered.
“Why do you think that is?” Jordan questioned.
“I think…I think it’s because something is missing from my life.” I answered.
“What is that?” Jordan asked.
“I don’t know. Just…something big.” I answered half-truthfully.
Suddenly Chester jumped at something.
“Whoa, easy boy.” Jordan cooed.
“Wonder what that was.” I said.
“Probably just a squirrel that came out of nowhere and spooked him.” Jordan replied.
Big Boy was calm so I knew it wasn’t anything dangerous.
“Well, just to be safe let’s kick it up a notch and head to the beach.” I suggested.
“Good idea.” Jordan nodded.
Together we urged our horses into a quicker pace and headed down the trails to the beach.47

***************48

I was deep in thought as Emily and I approached the beach. She had described a lot of what I had been feeling over the past year but I had known that it was me, missing her, and trying to keep her out of my mind. She probably hadn’t realized that she had only started feeling that way after she left me in such a rush.
“Jordan?” Her voice made me come back to the present from my thoughts.
“Yes?” I asked, looking over at her.
“I never did thank you for fixing my car you know. So…thank you.” She answered.
“No problem.” I managed a smile. For a moment I had gotten my hopes up that she would express her thoughts about me.
“So, Tanya’s pregnant huh?” She asked.
“Yeah. She’s really excited. A baby boy. They are going to name him Lucas Jonathan Sanders.” I answered.
“That’s cute. How does Frank feel about it?” Emily asked.
“Oh, he’s probably more excited about it then Tanya is but he holds it in. He’s worried about how far away a hospital is too so they are thinking about going to stay in town a week before the baby comes.” I answered.
“That might be a good idea.” Emily smiled.
“Yeah. I thought so too.” I nodded.
“Are you enjoying yourself on your vacation?” Emily questioned.
“Yes, I am.” I answered.
“Do you take vacations often?” Emily asked.
“No. This is only the third time I’ve ever left the ranch for a long period of time.” I answered.
“Really? Why don’t you leave more often?” Emily asked.
“Well, I guess it’s because the ranch takes a lot of time from my life but when I need a moment, for just me, all I have to do is get on a horse and ride up in the mountains and just watch a sunrise or something.” I answered.
“I remember feeling quite peaceful there. It was like a vacation. I understand what you mean.” Emily stated.
“Yeah? Do you remember the ranch that well? It’s been a while.” I replied.
“It’s somewhere that I will never forget.” Emily nodded.
“Well, you are welcome to come back any time you want.” I stated.
“Thanks, but like I’ve said before, I don’t really take a lot of time off from work since it’s so crazy.” Emily replied.
“Well, you’re always welcome. Don’t forget that.” I assured her.
“Thank you, I won’t forget.” Emily smiled at me.
“Hey Emily?” I asked.
“Yeah?” She raised an eyebrow in question.
“Why are you afraid of fire?” I asked.
“What?” She asked in return.
“When you were at the ranch you were afraid of me making a fire. Why were you afraid?” I questioned.
“Oh. That. Well, you see, my dad died in a fire. It was our house fire. He was in the back of the house without any exit and he got blocked in.” Emily explained, tears filling her eyes as she spoke.
“Oh, Emily I’m so sorry.” I said.
“I barely remember it, me being only three at the time, but still…um, he was really close to me and I was the last one he talked to, the last one he saw before he died.” Emily replied.
“That’s horrible.” I stated.
“Well, I’ve tried to move on. I mostly have, but I still can’t help but be afraid of fire.” She replied.
“Which is totally understandable.” I nodded.
Emily smiled at me weakly.
“Alright, I’ll race you to the water. On your mark, get set…GO!” She exclaimed.
We urged our horses faster and raced towards the water together.49

***************50

We only headed back when we did because it started to rain, really hard. By the time we reached the barn both Jordan and I were soaked, along with the horses.
We laughed as we led the horses into the barn and brushed them down and dried them. Feeding them warm mash after putting them back in their stalls.
“So, think we can make it to the house?” Jordan asked with a bright smile on his face.
“No. We might want to wait for it to calm down a bit.” I answered with a smile as well.
So, to pass time, we started taking out one horse at a time to groom together.
By the time the rain had started to calm down we had completed all the horses and were just sitting on the ground with our backs against a stall door, just talking.
“So, when is your birthday?” Jordan asked.
“What?” I asked in confusion.
“Your birthday. You know, the day you were born? When is it?” Jordan explained.
“I know what you meant. I was just confused about why you are asking.” I stated.
“Oh, it’s just a topic that we haven’t discussed.” Jordan shrugged.
“Oh. Um, well my birthday is October third. I will be twenty-five this year.” I said.
“Cool. Mine is on September twenty-seventh. I will be twenty-eight this year.” Jordan replied.
“Dang, you’re old.” I teased.
“Yeah, no kidding.” Jordan laughed.
“So you gonna do anything special?” I asked.
“For what?” Jordan asked.
“Your birthday of course.” I answered.
“Oh. No. Never do.” Jordan shook his head.
“Why not? Jerry always throws me a gigantic birthday party every year.” I stated.
“Oh yeah? Have birthdays always been a big thing for your family?” Jordan asked.
“Well, yeah. Sort of.” I nodded.
“Well maybe I could come down for your party?” Jordan questioned.
“Maybe.” I nodded.
“Well, we should probably get in the house while the rain is decent.” Jordan stood.
He turned and offered me his hand.
“Yeah, I guess you’re right.” I agreed and took his hand.
As he pulled me up I was against him and our faces were just inches apart.
Jordan leaned closer and our lips met gently. Jordan released my hand and wrapped his arms around my waist just as I wrapped my arms around his neck. We kissed each other passionately, remembering our first kiss that had happened on a day like this one.
Suddenly reality hit me and I jerked away.
“Jordan…we…we can’t do this…” I stammered.
“Emily, please. We both know that there is something between us that is not letting us forget each other.” Jordan held me tight, not releasing me.
“It would never work out. We are…we’re from totally different sides of the track.” I rationalized.
“We could make it work Emily. We could.” Jordan said.
“Please…please don’t do this.” I pleaded.
Jordan leaned in and kissed me again.
“Tell me you didn’t feel anything.” He said as he pulled away.
“I…I…I can’t!” I exclaimed.
“Exactly! Now, can you really tell yourself that with something as strong as that feeling you could leave here and be ok?” Jordan asked.
“I…no, but I can’t let it happen Jordan. I can’t leave my business and you can’t leave your ranch.” I answered.
“We can figure it out.” Jordan shook his head.
“Please Jordan…” I pleaded.51

***************52

I had to force myself to let her go. As soon as I did she turned and walked out of the barn quickly. It felt just like a year ago playing itself over again. I couldn’t let it happen again. This time, I chased after her.
“Emily! Wait!” I called after her.
“Jordan, please. Can’t you see that this just can’t work?” Emily asked.
“No. I can see it working. Someway, some how this has to work.” Jordan answered.
“Why? Why do you have to push this?” Emily swung around and faced me.
“Because I know this can work and I can’t let you go. Emily there hasn’t been one single day that has passed by that I haven’t stopped thinking about you in the last year. I made the mistake of letting you leave once before but I can’t do that again. Emily, we both know that apart from each other we are empty. That is why you have felt so empty for the last year.” I stated.
“How would you know that?” Emily asked.
“Because I have felt the same way.” I answered.
Emily’s face changed. It went blank but her eyes held deep emotion. I knew she was holding back from letting herself give in. She felt like she had to fight against this, when really all she had to do was give in and she would know that it could work, somehow it would work.
She was about to start talking again when it started pouring down heavily with rain and a car pulled up in the driveway.
Emily turned and walked towards the car quickly and I followed.
Out of the car came a woman whom I hadn’t ever met.
“Lauren? What are you doing here?” I heard Emily say over the rain.
“Jerry told me where you were. I have to talk to you.” Lauren answered.
Emily looked at me, standing a few feet away still.
“Come on, both of you. Get inside.” Emily finally said.
Lauren started getting her bags out of her trunk when I joined her.
“Don’t worry about these. I’ll bring them in. You go ahead inside with Emily.” I said to her.
“Ok. Thanks very much.” Lauren nodded with a smile.
Then she turned and headed over to Emily and together they walked in the house.
I turned my attention back to the bags. I got them all out of the trunk, closed the trunk and then carried the bags inside, out of the pouring rain.
“Where do you want her to stay?” I asked Emily.
“For now you can just put her things in my room. We all need to change.” Emily answered.
“Ok.” I nodded. Then I turned and headed up the stairs with Lauren’s two bags.53

***************54

”So who is that?” Lauren asked me as we both got a pair of warm, dry clothes to change into.
“That is Jordan.” I answered.
“The guy who rescued you in the car accident, stitched you up, let you stay in his house and fixed your car?” Lauren asked.
“Yeah. That’s the one.” I answered.
“Wow. He’s cute.” Lauren said.
“Yes. He is.” I replied.
“If I had been a damsel in distress at his place last year I would have tried to get a piece.” Lauren said.
“Geez, Lauren do you have to be so…” I trailed off when I saw Jordan coming towards my room. “Hey.” I greeted him when he reached the door.
“Hey. I was thinking of some hot cocoa, do either of you two ladies want some?” Jordan asked.
“Do I ever.” Lauren said, meaning both the cocoa and Jordan.
“Lauren.” I said under my breath in a warning tone. “That would be great. Thank you Jordan.” I said to Jordan.
Jordan looked me straight in the eye and nodded before hesitantly leaving.
“Did you see the way he looked at you Emi? He has to have feelings for you.” Lauren stated once Jordan was down the stairs.
I didn’t say anything. Instead I headed into my bathroom and changed into my favorite sweats, tank top and sweatshirt. When I exited the bathroom Lauren was changed too.
“So, what is he doing here?” Lauren asked.
“He came to sell me a horse for Kayla’s wedding present.” I half-lied.
“That’s it?” Lauren asked, looking at me as if she didn’t believe me.
“Yep.” I lied.
“Well, he seems to have feelings for you and if I remember correctly I think you told me that you had feelings for him too when you came back. You gave me some bogus thing about how you two couldn’t be together because you came from different worlds and that it wouldn’t ever work. Is that right?” Lauren stated.
“Yep. That is correct.” I replied.
“And by the look on your face and the tone of your voice just now, you’re still sticking to that theory aren’t you?” Lauren asked.
“Yep.”’ I nodded.
“I think it could work.” Lauren said.
“How could it possibly ever work Lauren? He lives on a ranch, I live in the city; he can’t leave the ranch, I can’t leave the city. It wouldn’t work out.” I replied.
“Not exactly true.” Lauren stated.
“What?” I asked.
“You could leave the city, you just don’t want to. You could keep in contact with us by phone and e-mail, as if you were on vacation and when there was a meeting you could just come into town. It could work Emily, you would just have to give up living in the city, not working in the city.” Lauren explained.
“I…I…” I stammered.
“Ladies, cocoa is done!” Jordan called up the stairs.
‘Saved by the cocoa’ I thought.
“Let’s go.” Lauren urged.
I nodded and together we headed down the stairs and into the kitchen where Jordan had set three coffee mugs down at the table.55

***************56

When the girls descended from the stairs I noticed Emily wearing the sweatshirt she had worn the same night she left my house, my sweatshirt. I caught my breath and forced myself to look away. I had no clue what the sweatshirt meant. She probably didn’t even remember that it was mine, or realize that she was wearing it in front of me.
“Thank you very much for the cocoa Jordan.” Lauren said to me as I sat down with the ladies at the table.
“No problem.” I smiled.
“So, you’re the guy who fixed Emi’s car then huh?” Lauren asked.
“Lauren.” Emily hissed at her.
“No, no it’s ok Emily.” I assured Emily. Then I turned my attention to Lauren. “Yes, I guess I am.” I stated.
“That was really nice of you.” Lauren said.
“Well, it needed to be done. Unless she had wanted to buy a new car.” I replied.
“Which I didn’t.” Emily added to the conversation.
“Right.” I smiled at her.
Emily looked down quickly but I noticed a slight flush in her cheeks.
“So, Lauren, what brings you here?” I turned my attention to Lauren.
“Oh, right. I haven’t gotten to that yet huh?” Lauren laughed at herself.
“No, you haven’t.” I chuckled.
“Well, you probably don’t even care but I came out here to tell Emily that I’m engaged to my boyfriend Michael of three years!” Lauren exclaimed.
“What? Why didn’t you tell me sooner! Oh Lauren that is so great!” Emily looked up in excitement.
“Congratulations Lauren.” I said.
“Thanks, both of you. I haven’t even gotten to the good part yet either.” Lauren replied.
“What good part?” Emily asked.
“There’s more news.” Lauren answered.
“And what is that?” I asked.
“I’m pregnant!” Lauren exclaimed.
“What? You’re engaged and you’re pregnant?” Emily asked excitedly.
“Yeah, that’s what I said. It was really funny, Mike had arranged a date night for us to propose and I had decided I would tell him that night. He proposed before I could tell him, so he had no idea I was pregnant when he proposed. It was an amazing night.” Lauren answered.
“Wow. Lauren, that is so great. I’m so happy for you.” Emily said.
“Congratulations again I guess.” I smiled at Lauren.
“Thank you.” She returned the smile.
“Well, I guess I will leave you two girls to talk. I’m off to take a nap. I’m a little worn out after the long ride today.” I stood.
“Alright, night.” Lauren smiled.
“Night Jordan.” Emily looked at me.
“Night ladies.” I nodded before leaving the room.57

***************58

”I still can’t believe you’re engaged and pregnant. It just doesn’t seem fair.” I said to Lauren later that night. We had been sitting at the table for hours just talking.
“Fair? Emi I have waited three years for Mike to pop the question. This baby was a surprise too.” Lauren laughed.
“Well, I got to say, I’m a little jealous.” I said.
“Jealous? Emily why should you be jealous of me? You have a great life. You have a brother that adores you, a business that is nationally popular, and a guy who is obviously in love with you. Why would you be jealous of me?” Lauren replied.
“Well, you’re engaged Lauren. You’re going to have a baby. You can be with the guy you want to. You can marry the guy you want to marry. You are having his kid. I guess that’s why I’m jealous.” I stated.
“Be with the guy you want to be with then Emi. What is so hard about that?” Lauren asked.
“It’s just…I don’t know Lauren. I don’t know. I come up with excuses that sound so strong in my head but then people somehow make ways around my excuses for it to work. I want it to work, I do but I just don’t think it could.” I answered.
“Emi, I love you, but you’re being stupid about this. I mean, how hard is it to realize that you could have both your business and your guy. I think your real problem is letting a guy close to you.” Lauren said.
I stood and took our coffee mugs to the table.
“No, it’s not. I’ve had relationships before Lauren. You know that.” I said as I began filling the sink with water to wash the dishes.
“But you’ve never let a guy close and you’ve never had a relationship that has changed you completely around.” Lauren replied.
“Exactly, he changed me Lauren. I was fine the way I was before, but he changed me into some workaholic, lonely person.” I stated.
“No Emi. He made you realize how alone you really were before and now you’re working yourself to get your mind off of him and your loneliness.” Lauren shook her head.
I sighed heavily.
“Just think about that. I’m going to go to bed.” Lauren said.
“Ok, good-night. You can sleep in any of the rooms you want.” I replied.
“Ok.” Lauren nodded. Then she headed up the stairs and I was alone.
I hated being alone.
I was still washing the dishes when I heard a noise behind me.
“Did you forget something?” I asked, not turning around.
“Um…no?” Jordan’s voice answered.
I swung around.
“Oh, hi.” I said a little embarrassed.
“Hi. You’re still up?” Jordan asked.
“Yeah, I was just finishing up the dishes.” I answered.
“Want some help?” Jordan offered.
“No, no. I’m fine. I just have a few bowls left.” I declined.
“Well, would you mind if I kept you company?” Jordan asked.
“No.” I answered.
Jordan walked over and leaned against the counter and watched as I washed the dishes.
“So, are you excited about Lauren’s news?” He asked.
“Yes. I’m really happy that Mike proposed and I’m positive Lauren will be an amazing mom.” I answered.
“Good.” Jordan smiled.
“So, what are you doing down here?” I asked.
“Oh, well, I couldn’t sleep when I went upstairs to take a nap so I just relaxed and read for a little while. When I heard Lauren come up I figured you had went to bed too but I guess not. I actually came down for something to drink.” Jordan answered.
“Oh. I see. Well, what do you want?” I asked.
“Oh, um…whatever.” Jordan answered.
“How about a soda?” I offered.
“Sounds nice.” Jordan said.
“Ok. It’s in the fridge. I would get it but I still have these dishes to get done.” I replied.
“Right. Don’t worry about it.” Jordan laughed as he opened the fridge and pulled out a can of Pepsi.
A few minutes later I was done with the dishes.
“Well…um, I’m not really ready for bed, would you like to go watch a movie?” I asked Jordan.
“Sure.” Jordan nodded.
“Great. Why don’t you go pick one out?” I suggested.
“Ok.” Jordan smiled and left the room.
I looked around the kitchen making sure all the messes were cleaned up before reaching in the fridge and grabbing my own soda and heading to the living room.59

***************60

”How about Braveheart?” I suggested as Emily entered the room.
“Um, ok.” Emily agreed.
“Um…ok, how do you work all of this stuff?” I looked at the confusing systems.
“Oh, um, let me get that for you. Go ahead and sit down on the couch.” Emily laughed coming over and taking the movie from me.
“Ok.” I nodded.
Emily got the movie started quickly, making me feel like a fool.
She sat down on the opposite side of the couch and curled up with a blanket.
We watched the movie for a while until she suddenly looked at me, her eyes misty.
“Emily? Are you ok? What’s wrong?” I asked worriedly.
“Jordan…I really want us to work out. I do, but I just can’t see it happening.” Emily stated.
“I know Emily. It’s a rough situation that usually people just forget about…but I can’t forget about you.” Jordan replied.
“Just like I can’t forget about you.” Emily began crying.
“Come here Emi.” I said.
Emily crawled over to me and curled into my lap.
“We shouldn’t do this…” She started pulling away a few seconds later.
“No, you need it, now sit still.” I held her tight.
“Jordan…I want you to know that I really do care about you.” Emily stated.
“That means a lot to me, to hear that.” I replied hoarsely.
“Do you think that we could stay up here another night? Before going back to your ranch?” She asked.
“Yeah, no problem.” I answered.
“I mean, I know Lauren is here but it will still be nice to just be away from almost everyone and just…relax, with you around.” Emily said.
“Well I’m glad I’m welcomed to stay.” I chuckled.
Emily was silent for a long time after that, for a while I knew she was just thinking and then eventually I knew she was sleeping. By the time the movie was over we were both dead asleep on the couch.
I woke up in the middle of the night to Emily getting off the couch, trying not to wake me.
“Hey, where you going?” I asked sleepily.
“There’s a storm outside, it woke me up. I thought I would go check on the horses.” Emily answered.
“Are you crazy?” I sat up instantly.
“No. They might be spooked.” Emily shook her head.
“Come on, the horses will be ok. Let’s get you to bed.” I said, getting off the couch.
“Ok.” Emily sighed, not willing to fight.
We went upstairs and I made sure she was in her bed before heading to my own room.61

***************62

Two nights later Jordan and I pulled into his ranch. We had driven all day that day to get there and I was worn out.
“Well, I bet you’re really tired. We can take a look at the horse tomorrow. Get some rest alright?” Jordan said once we got into the house.
I went to the couch, laid down and fell asleep.
I woke up in the middle of the night and discovered Louie laying at my feet. I lay on the couch for awhile, tossing and turning to get back to sleep but when I couldn’t get back to sleep after an hour I went into the kitchen and got a glass of water. Louie followed me and sat at my feet as I drank the water.
“What?” I looked down at him.
Louie sniffed.
“I really would love to live out here. It’s such a nice place.” I said to the dog.
Louie whined.
“You’re just like Jordan. It wouldn’t work out.” I sighed.
I finished the water and then just stood there.
Finally I sighed and headed outside with Louie behind me.
I ended up in the barn.
The horses poked their heads out of their stalls and stared at me eagerly.
“Jordan?” A voice called from the back of the barn.
I froze in my tracks.
“Hello?” The voice called again.
I backed up some.
Out of the back stall came Ronny, Jordan’s pal that hadn’t approved of Jordan and I last time.
“Emily?” Ronny asked, looking at me in shock. “What are you doing here?”
“Um…Jordan and I…Jordan has a horse to show me for my future sister in law.” I answered.
“So Jordan brought you?” Ronny asked.
“Yeah. We got back earlier tonight.” I answered.
“Huh…I didn’t even hear you guys.” Ronny stated.
“We arrived in my car.” I replied.
“I must have been dead asleep. It’s been a little crazy around here with all them trouble-making teens.” Ronny stated.
“Oh.”’ I nodded. “Well, then I guess I’ll let you get back to sleep. Sorry for waking you.”
“No, wait…can I talk to you about something?” Ronny said.
“About Jordan and I?” I asked.
“Yeah.” Ronny answered.
“We’re not together.” I said.
“Well…are you staying here? Like, are you planning on sticking around this time?” Ronny asked.
“No. Jordan and I would never work out. We’re from completely different worlds.” I answered.
“That’s what I used to think too.” Ronny said.
“You don’t anymore?” I asked.
“I think it will probably be a hard adjustment for either of you two but the way that Jordan has been over the last year, burying himself to try to get you out of his head, I’ve realized that you two need each other, or at least he needs you. He’d do anything for you.” Ronny answered.
“I’ll be leaving tomorrow.” I said.
“Please don’t.” Ronny pleaded.
“Why? You don’t even like me.” I said.
“Because Jordan loves you. He needs you in his life. I couldn’t handle seeing him the way he’s been again…please…don’t leave him.” Ronny replied. “And it’s not that I don’t like you, I just didn’t want this to happen last time.” He added.
“I’m sorry.” I shook my head.
Then I turned and left the barn.
When I went back inside the house I rushed down the hall and into Jordan’s room and climbed onto the bed beside him.63

***************64

”Emily?” I asked, shocked.
“Sorry…I couldn’t sleep.” She looked at me innocently.
“Well, go ahead and sleep in here.” I stated.
“Thanks.” Emily nodded.
“Are you ok?” I asked, noticing that she was really cold.
“Oh, yeah. I just went for a walk outside.” She answered.
“Seriously?” I asked in shock.
“Yeah. I told you, I couldn’t sleep.” Emily answered.
“What’s wrong?” I asked.
“I don’t know. I just couldn’t sleep.” She answered.
“Well, everything’s alright now.” I assured her.
“I know.” Emily nodded.
She was asleep within moments. I followed her soon after.
The next morning I woke up and found her still in my bed dead asleep. I got out of the bed slowly, careful not to wake her and then left the room. I let the dogs out of their room, the puppies following their mother happily. The dogs all followed me outside to the barn where I found Ronny leading a mare out of her stall.
“Hey.” I greeted him.
“Hey buddy. Good to see you home.” Ronny returned the greeting.
“Where you taking Belle?” I asked.
“I was going to go take her out for a ride. Wanna go?” Ronny asked in return.
“Oh, I can’t. I brought Emily out here to take a look at Troubadour.” I declined.
“She said you brought her out her to look at a horse for her sister. You’re selling Troubadour?” Ronny stated.
“She came out here last night?” I asked.
“Yeah. She couldn’t sleep. She wasn’t out here long when she found out I was in here.” Ronny answered.
“Why were you out here?” I asked
“There’s been problems lately with some teens coming onto farms, sneaking in barns and letting all the horses out of their stalls.” Ronny answered. “Frank and I have been alternating nights to stay out here.”
“Oh, what about your ranch?” I asked.
“Well, I only have those five horses now so I just brought them over to Frank’s and when Frank comes over here I go over there and watch over his horses and Tanya.” Ronny answered.
“Wow. Well, I’ll be more then willing to help y’all out.” I stated.
“So, I take it you haven’t won Emily over like you left to do?” Ronny asked.
“No. She’s so stuck on the idea that it would never work out.” I answered.
“I’m sorry buddy.” Ronny sighed.
“I should have known better Ron.” I shrugged.
“She has feelings for you though.” Ronny stated.
“How would you know?” I asked.
“I kinda talked to her last night, asking her if she was planning on staying. It hurt her to say she wasn’t.” Ronny answered.
I sighed.
“Well, I’m going to take Belle out.” Ronny said.
“I’ll get Troubadour out and groom him.” I replied.
“Have fun. I’ll be back soon.” Ronny nodded.
“Ok.” I nodded. Then I turned and headed to Troubadour’s stall.65

***************66

I woke up in Jordan’s bed with the house completely silent. I quickly got up and got dressed, brushed my hair and then rushed outside to the barn.
Jordan stood grooming a cross-tied horse.
“Hey.” I said awkwardly.
“Hey, how are you this morning?” He smiled brightly at me.
“I’m good. Sorry about last night. I don’t know what I was thinking.” I said.
Jordan stopped grooming the horse and walked over so that he was in front of me.
I tensed, not trusting myself or my emotions around him.
“Are you ok?” Jordan asked.
“Yeah, I’m fine. Why?” I asked in return.
“You came out and talked to Ronny last night then came back and slept in my bed and now you’re tense when I come near you.” Jordan answered. “What’s on your mind?”
“Nothing.” I looked away from Jordan’s beautiful eyes.
“You can tell me the truth Emily. No matter what it is, you don’t have to lie.” Jordan said.
“I wasn’t lying.” I replied defensively.
“Emily.” Jordan urged.
“I’m just trying to make this less painful for both of us.” I sighed, giving up.
“Then just stop fighting.” Jordan’s voice lowered to a near whisper.
“I…I can’t. I…” I started.
Jordan cut me off with a deep, intimate kiss. I fought against it at first but then I couldn’t any longer. I gave in and my arms slowly wrapped around Jordan’s neck and I pulled myself closer to him. Jordan deepened the kiss and ran his fingers through my hair and then held the nape of my neck making us even closer so that we were totally against one another.
Then he very slowly started breaking the kiss. At first I tried to continue but when I realized what I was doing then I abruptly pulled away.
“Now tell me you didn’t feel anything and I will let you leave without a fight.” Jordan’s voice was hoarse.
“I…I didn’t…” I stopped myself. I knew I couldn’t lie about something like that.
“Please…just stop fighting it Emi.” Jordan pulled me against him so that he was hugging me.
“I can’t Jordan. I just…I can’t. It won’t work. It’s for the best.” I choked up and then I got out of Jordan’s hold and ran away, into the house, locking myself in the bathroom.67

***************68

My heart sank as Emily ran away into the house. I knew I should’ve went after her, but I couldn’t. I was too discouraged. She would never give in.
I turned back to grooming Troubadour.
Ronny came in about an hour later as I was mucking out stalls, working my emotions out.
“Jordan?” Ronny asked.
I looked up to see him standing in the stall door watching me hesitantly.
“Did she leave?” He asked.
I shook my head.
“Something happen?” He asked.
I nodded.
“Wanna talk about it?” He asked.
I shook my head.
“All right. Well, I’m gonna go get a drink. You want anything?” Ronny offered.
“Whiskey.” I answered.
“Jordan…” Ron started.
“Just do it please Ron.” I cut him off.
“But you don’t…” He started again.
“Please.” I looked up directly at him.
“Ok, buddy.” He nodded before turning and leaving.
When he came back I took the bottle of whiskey he had with him and then went to my office in the barn. I sat at the desk and then opened the bottle and started chugging.
“She’s in the bathroom.” He told me.
I just kept chugging.
“Crying.” He added.
I stopped and looked at him.
“What happened?” Ronny asked.
“We kissed. I told her if she could honestly tell me she didn’t feel anything from it then I would let her leave without a fight. She couldn’t deny it…I told her to stop fighting…she ran.” I answered.
“Now she’s crying.” Ronny said.
“I don’t know what to do Ronny.” I replied. “I give up. She won’t give in.”
“No, no, no. This is when you go to her; when she needs someone.” Ronny told me.
“She doesn’t want me.” I shook my head and took another drink of whiskey.
“Yes she does. You just have to make her realize just how much she does.” Ronny urged.
“I’ve tried Ron. I can’t. She’s just going to have to realize it on her own. I can’t force her to love me.” I argued.
“Fine Jordan. Give up. I’m trying to help you but it looks like I should just get home. I’ll stop by tomorrow and help you pick up the broken pieces of your heart.” Ronny stated before storming out of the office.
I sighed and stared at the bottle of whiskey in my hands.
How could I make her realize like Ronny said? Was it possible?
I stood.
There was only one way to find out.
I headed for the house.69

***************70

A gentle knock sounded on the bathroom door.
“Emily? Are you ok?” Jordan’s voice asked through the door.
“Please go away Jordan.” I answered.
“No, I don’t want you beating yourself up for this. Open the door please.” Jordan said.
“I can beat myself up for anything I want. Now please, I am trying to make phone calls.” I replied.
“No, you were crying when I came in.” Jordan stated.
“I…please Jordan, just leave me alone.” I begged.
“Ok. I’m here if you need me.” He said.
I heard him walk away and down the hall.
I grabbed my phone and called my brother.
“Hey, how does it look?” He asked, knowing it was me calling him.
“Oh, I haven’t gotten to it yet. I was calling to make sure business is doing ok.” I answered.
“So in other words you are saying ‘big brother what do I do’?” Jerry asked.
“He wants things to work out, but Jerry, they can’t.” I answered.
“Why not?” Jerry asked.
“I’ve gone over this a million times. You know why. Look, I’m going to get a look at the horse, take a few photos and then I’m coming home.” I answered.
“No, you are still on vacation. I want you to stay there for the remainder of it. Just try things out, see if it could work. Try Emi, just try being free-minded, stop over-thinking things and just go with the flow for once.” Jerry stated.
“That’s three days. I can’t lock myself in the bathroom for three days!” I exclaimed.
“You locked yourself in the bathroom?” Jerry asked in disbelief.
“Yes.” I answered.
“Get out of that bathroom right now Emily Marie!” Jerry ordered.
“Fine.” I stood and left the bathroom.
“Now go find Jordan and talk things over with him. Call me when you are on your way home.” Jerry said before hanging up.
I sighed and closed my phone, putting it in my pocket.
“Um…who are you?” A female voice asked, making me jump.
I whirled around to see a beautiful black haired, green-eyed girl looking at me fiercely.
“I’m a customer of Jordan’s. I’m buying a horse. I was just using the bathroom.” I answered.
“Hailey? What are you doing here?” Jordan’s voice asked. He came from down the hall from his room.
“I wanted to come see if you were home yet.” The girl turned to face Jordan.
“Oh, well I am. Got home late last night.” Jordan answered.
“I see that…so…who is she?” Hailey turned to look at me again momentarily before giving Jordan a curious look.
“Look, um…I’m just going to go check out the horses in the barn.” I said before leaving the house as quickly as possible.
How could Jordan want someone like me over someone like that?
I sighed when I realized the answer. He couldn’t.
I entered the barn to find the same horse Jordan had been grooming earlier still cross-tied.
“Did he forget to put you away buddy?” I patted the horse’s thick neck.
The horse nuzzled me in greeting.
“You are magnificent; amazing body build. You are one handsome fellow.” I looked over the horse.
“That’s Troubadour.” A familiar voice said.
I turned to see Frank standing in the entryway of the barn.
“Ronny said you were back. I had to see it to believe it.” Frank headed towards me.
“I’m just purchasing a horse for my brother’s fiancé then I will be gone. I didn’t mean to cause trouble.” I told him.
“You have caused Jordan quite a lot of pain.” Frank stated.
“I…I didn’t mean to.” I replied.
“But I can see it now that it has caused you a lot of pain too.” Frank added.
I looked down.
“I just don’t want us to be even more hurt in the long run, when he realizes that it can’t work, that I’m not the one he wants forever. He has a nice girl in there right now that would make a great partner for him.” I said.
“A girl?” Frank asked in disbelief.
“Yeah. She’s about twenty-three.” I nodded.
“What does she look like?” Frank asked curiously.
“She’s tall and slender, she has long black hair and green eyes. Jordan called her Hailey.” I answered.
Frank’s mouth twitched like he was holding back a burst of laughter.
“Well…that Hailey has been around for a long time. She used to follow Ronny, Jordan and I around like a lost puppy, bugging us all the time. She has most certainly changed from the annoying girl we used to know to the girl almost every cowboy is after. I honestly think Ronny might be interested but…that’s just my opinion.” Frank stated.
I didn’t know what to say.
“Well, are you busy?” Frank asked.
“No. I was planning on leaving.” I answered.
“Already?” Frank asked.
“I’m not needed here. I’m sure the horse will be amazing.” I answered.
“Well, you can wait a little bit. Will you please just take a walk with me real quick?” Frank urged.
I sighed and gave in.
“We can saddle up some horses.” Frank stated.
We quickly took out two horses, saddled and bridled them and then headed out.
“Where are you taking me?” I asked.
“You’ll see.” Frank answered.
We traveled for only a little bit, maybe a half-hour or so before stopping at a river bend.
“Do you plan to drown me Frank?” I asked, actually frightened to be alone with this man.
“You wish.” Frank laughed.
“I do?” I asked.
“That way you wouldn’t have to decide what you are going to do. No, this is where I came to think about marrying Tanya, and now, our future son.” Frank answered.
“So…why am I here Frank?” I asked.
“I found this place very peaceful. I thought I would share it with you, let you stay here and try to put the pieces together of your life.” Frank answered.
“I don’t know the way back.” I said, horrified as Frank turned his horse and started heading away.
“Your horse does. Don’t worry, you’ll make it back before Jordan sends out a search party, and I know where to find you if you’re not back soon.” Frank called over his shoulder.
I sighed and then slowly got off my horse. I stroked his neck and just stared out at the river. It was quite a sight to see. I knew I wasn’t going to plan out my life due to a pretty sight though, so I just decided to at least sit down and dwell on things for a little bit.
I thought about everything, my business, my brother, my life and Jordan. I knew that somewhere along the way I had fallen in love with him but I couldn’t believe that it had happened. I knew I was making things bad but I knew without a doubt that things would be worse down the road when one of us became unhappy with our lives and wanted our old one back. I couldn’t let myself let my emotions take control of my life. I had to focus, on my job and things that really meant something in life. I would find a guy, and sure, he wouldn’t be Jordan but he would be a guy that could live in the city and be ok with my hours for work, someone who wouldn’t want kids and who could afford kids if one or two came along over the years. One who wouldn’t want to hide away in the middle of nowhere forever.
I stood and headed back to get on the horse. I would listen to Jerry and I would stay a few days, and I would find a good excuse to never come back and have to hurt Jordan again.71

***************72

I was training a yearling when I saw Emily come out of the trails and head for the barn, oblivious to me in the corral. She had a determined expression set on her face. I stopped the yearling and headed to the barn to meet up with her.
She looked up from taking off the saddle of Yankee when I entered with Quinton, the yearling.
“Did you have a nice ride?” I asked her as I cross-tied Quinton.
“Yeah, quite peaceful.” She nodded.
“This place is like that.” I said.
“Yes, it’s one thing I love about it.” She replied.
“So, Frank said you saw Troubadour earlier. Did you like him?” I asked.
“The horse you were grooming earlier? He’s quite the animal. I love him.” Emily answered.
“That’s the horse I’m selling to your sister. You approve?” I asked.
“Yes. He’s perfect.” She nodded.
“Good, good. I’m glad.” I said.
There was a moment of silence.
“Well…I’m going to go call Jerry, let him know about the horse. I’ll talk to you when I’m done all right?” Emily stated.
“Sure.” I nodded.
She slowly turned and walked away towards the house.
I put Quinton away and headed into the house to start making dinner.
“Hey, do you need some help?” Emily asked after a few minutes.
“Sure, that would be great. My family is coming over for dinner. I hope you don’t mind.” I answered.
“No, not at all. It will be nice to finally meet them.” Emily stated.
I didn’t know what to say so I just turned back to the meal I was making.
“So, what’s for dinner?” She asked.
“Hamburgers. It’s my dad’s favorite, and since it’s his birthday I figured I would make his favorite meal.” I answered.
“Oh, nice.” She nodded.
“Yeah. So…I really hope this doesn’t make you feel uncomfortable.” I stated.
“No, no, it’s fine. Really, don’t worry about me.” Emily replied.
I looked directly at her.
“I always worry about you Emily.” I stated.
“I…I didn’t…quite mean it like…that.” She stammered.
“Right.” I looked back at the hamburger meat.
“So I told my brother I was buying the horse.” Emily changed subjects.
“That’s good to hear. I take it he trusts your judgment well?” I asked.
“On most subjects.” She shrugged.
I wondered what she meant by that but didn’t say so.
“So, what can I do?” She offered.
“Actually if you could get in that cupboard directly behind me and get the macaroni noodles out and start getting them going that’s really all I need. Other then that you could just sit back and relax.” I stated.
“In that case, when I’m finished I will go get a shower and start getting ready.” Emily replied.
“Ok. That works too.” I nodded.
“Ok.” Was all she said.
She quickly got the noodles going and then headed for first her room then the bathroom.
I quickly started the hamburgers, knowing my family would be over soon enough.
When I heard the shower turn off I headed for my room to change for dinner.
I heard Emily exit the bathroom.
“Jordan?” She knocked on my door.
“Hold on a moment.” I called.
When I had on my clothes I went to the door and opened it.
“Look, I’ve been thinking…” She started.
I couldn’t control myself, I leaned in and kissed her softly on the lips.
“Jordan, please.” She begged, pulling away.
“I’m sorry, you were saying?” I sighed.
“I’ve been thinking, and after I leave here…I won’t be coming back. If I could have avoided it this time I would have. If I could’ve avoided it the first time I would’ve just to save us the pain.” Emily stated.
Just then I heard a truck pull up and the dogs started barking.
I cursed under my breath and gave Emily an regretful look.
“My family is here, can we continue this later?” I asked.
“Sure.” She nodded.
Just then my mom, dad, and little sister came inside.
“Customer girl is still here, funny.” Hailey gave me a look.
I sighed heavily and glared at my little sister.73

***************74

”Customer girl?” The lady who I had decided must be Jordan’s mom, asked in confusion, looking from me to Jordan.
“Mom, Dad, Hailey, meet Emily, the one I’ve told you all about. Emily, meet my mom Helen, my dad Dave and my little sister Hailey.” Jordan made the introductions.
I looked at Hailey in surprise. She was his sister? Then I felt stupid. Of course, that’s what Frank was smiling about in the barn when I had mentioned her before.
“It’s nice to formally meet you. I thought you were a customer not the girl my brother is crazy about.” Hailey said to me.
“Hailey Gail!” Helen scolded.
“What? It’s the truth.” Hailey shrugged.
“It’s nice to meet you Emily, Jordan has told us a lot about you.” Helen ignored her daughter and greeted me with a smile.
“I hope good things.” I managed a smile in return.
“Of course.” Helen’s smile brightened even more.
“I’m Dave, it’s nice to meet you honey. Jordan wasn’t kidding when he said you were beautiful, you are a lovely looking young lady.” Dave extended his hand toward me.
I took it as I blushed.
“Ok, I think Emily has had enough embarrassment for one night. Let’s get out to the patio and get some food in you guys before you become vicious.” Jordan came to my rescue.
“Sounds good.” Dave agreed.
We all went out to the patio and Jordan brought out the platter of hamburgers and the buns.
I sat down next to Jordan, where everyone seemed to expect me to sit. I couldn’t help wondering what Jordan had told them that made them give me this reaction. They were welcoming me with open arms – well, all except Hailey – and treating me like I was a part of the family.
“So, what are you doing here? Jordan said you lived in the city.” Hailey asked me.
“I came to check out a horse that Jordan has. I’m buying one for my brother’s fiancé.” I answered, feeling uncomfortable.
“My son breeds great horses, I’m sure your sister-in-law will love it.” Dave said.
“Yes, I know she will.” I replied.
“So when are you leaving?” Hailey asked.
“Tomorrow.” I answered.
She seemed happy at that thought.
“Hailey, stop it, now.” Jordan hissed at her.
“Um, excuse me, I need to go make a few phone calls. It was nice eating with you all.” I stood up and left quickly.
I went to my room and started packing my clothes. I had to leave, I had to get away from Jordan, and his family. I needed to go home and get back to my life, back to normalcy.75

***************76

”Hailey, do you have to be such a brat?” I asked my little sister.
“She’s leaving tomorrow Jordan, I don’t want her hurting you again. We all know you couldn’t live through it again.” Hailey answered.
“Who are you to judge that for me Hailey?” I demanded angrily.
“Jordan, calm down son, she didn’t mean anything harmful by it.” My dad said.
“Ok, I need to make sure Emily is ok. I’ll walk you guys to the car.” I stood up.
The family quietly made their way out to the car. I hugged my mom and dad but avoided Hailey. Once they pulled out of the driveway I went back inside the house and knocked on the guest bedroom door.
“Emi?” I called through the door.
“Come in.” She answered
I opened the door to see her packing.
“Emi?” I repeated.
“What Jordan?” She asked. She sounded irritated.
“What are you – are you ok?” I asked.
“Yes, just fine.” She answered quickly.
“What are you doing?” I asked.
“Packing.” Emily answered.
“Why?” I questioned.
“Because I’m going home.” She said.
“Why?” I asked.
“I’ve done what I was supposed to do Jordan. I’m getting in your way and it’s time I got back to work anyway. Besides, me being here is just making things worse and the longer I stay the harder it will be to leave.” Emily answered.
“Then don’t leave.” I said softly.
She stopped and turned to face me.
“Jordan, you know I can’t.” She replied.
“No, I don’t know that.” I said.
“Jordan, please, don’t do this again. I can’t do this anymore.” Emily sighed.
“Emily, I can’t just let you go, it hurts too much. I’m going to fight for you.” I stated.
“That’s why I’m leaving Jordan, I don’t want to hurt you anymore.” Emily replied.
“Emily we can figure things out, please.” I pleaded, going over and embracing her.
“Jordan, I have to go. I’m sorry.” She pulled away and turned her attention back to packing.
“Ok, but one day, you will realize that this can work and when you do, come back here, and I’ll still be waiting.” I said.
She didn’t say anything.
I turned and left the room. I walked out to the front porch and got drawn in to the beautiful sight of the sun setting. I sat down on the steps and Lou automatically came and sat down next to me. He put his head in my lap and I automatically rested my hand on it and started rubbing his ears.
“I can’t do this again boy, it hurts too much.” I sighed.
Lou whined.
I heard the sound of Emily pulling her suitcase behind her down the hall. She was talking on the phone with someone.
“I’m coming home tonight. I’ll be home late so don’t wait up. How are you feeling?” She was saying.
There was a moment of silence as she listened to the other person talk.
“That’s great. Ok, well I’ll see you in the morning if not before. I have to call a taxi ok? What? Because, I don’t want him to have to leave his ranch again, and he doesn’t want me to leave, a taxi will be easier.” Emily told the person.
Lou stood up and went to the door trying to get in.
“Bye Lauren.” Emily hung up the phone as she opened the door for Lou.
I laughed at the fact that she unconsciously had adapted to the way of things around here, and just did them without thinking about it.
“Hey.” She said, obviously to me now.
“How’s Lauren?” I asked.
“Good, still excited.” Emily answered.
She came over and sat down next to me on the steps.
“Pretty night, huh?” She asked.
“Are you ready to go?” I asked in return.
“Yeah, I just need to call a taxi.” She answered.
“No need, I’m driving you back.” I said.
“No, that’s not necessary I’m going to call a taxi.” She replied.
“I want to.” I urged.
“I don’t want you to Jordan, it’ll just cause you more pain. Ok? Just let me call a taxi.” She stood and went inside.
“Emily, no matter what you do, it’s going to hurt. You can’t avoid the pain of the situation. Driving home won’t be any harder then watching you drive away again.” I said over my shoulder.
I heard her take a deep breath before going inside the house.
She made a phone call, asking for a taxi to pick her up.
“Thank you.” I heard her hang up.
She came back out to the porch.
“They said the driver would be here in about a half-hour.” She told me.
“Ok.” I nodded.
“Jordan if I could do this without the pain I would. I’m sorry for all the pain I’ve already caused you and now the pain I’m going to cause again. Just know that after this I won’t ever hurt you again. I’ll have Jerry pick the horse up and give you the check.” Emily stated.
“If you don’t want to cause pain then don’t leave. We can make it work Emily, we can.” I replied.
“It’s not possible.” She shook her head.
“Yes, it is.” I stood up and faced her.
“How? Tell me a possible way Jordan and I’ll stop arguing that it can’t work.” She demanded. I could tell she was upset, but I wasn’t giving up.
“I’ll sell the ranch.” I said.
“No, I can’t let you do that!” She exclaimed.
“Yes I can. You’re worth it Emily, if selling the ranch means being with you, then I’ll do it in a heartbeat.” I stated.
“Jordan you’re not a city guy, you won’t like it. I couldn’t do that to you. It’d be like putting Lou on a short chain.” Emily replied.
I sighed, she had a point; I would be restless and of no use in a city. I was meant to be in the country where I had room to roam and horses to ride and train. I had tried training in a city environment before and it hadn’t worked, which is when I bought the ranch.
“See? I told you.” She said.
“I’ll manage, you’re worth it.” I replied.
“No, I would know you weren’t happy and eventually it would tear us apart.” Emily said.
“That would be my choice, not yours Emily.” I replied.
“And it would be my choice to be with you and do that to you and I’m not gonna do it. No.” She stated.
“Emily, this can work. Let’s just give it a try, please. Just a try.” I replied. “We will never know if it can work if we don’t at least try.”
Emily met my eyes and stared at me for a few moments.
“Ok, let’s try it. We’ll figure out if it can work out.” She finally said.
I was in shock.
“Really?” I asked.
“Yeah, really. Let’s try it out, see if it can work.” Emily answered.
I pulled her close and kissed her.
“Thank you.” I said when I pulled away a moment later.
“I’m not promising anything but to try it out Jordan, don’t be thanking me just yet.” She replied.
“I’m thanking you for trying Emily.” I hugged her.
“That’s all I’m doing, just remember that.” Emily said.
“So, does this mean that we are dating?” I asked.
“For now? Yes we are dating, trying things out, nothing serious.” She answered.
“Ok.” I smiled.
Just then the taxi pulled into the driveway.
“Alright, I’ve got to go. I’ll call you when I get home ok?” Emily looked at me.
“Ok.” I smiled before kissing her.
Then I pulled away, picked up her bags and took them to the taxi.
Before Emily got in the taxi she hugged me tight, kissed my cheek and then got in and shut the door.
As I watched her walk away I wasn’t hurting but I was joyful but as she left she still took my heart with her.77

***************78

When I got home that night I called Jordan and then called my brother. Jerry wasn’t happy that I was home early but he was happy to know that Jordan and I were together, as was Lauren.
When I finally got into bed I couldn’t believe that I had agreed. I knew it was just going to end badly but when I had looked at Jordan I couldn’t bear to hurt him again. Besides, it wouldn’t hurt to try this whole “us” thing out with him. It would show us both that I was right.
I woke up the next morning and headed into work.
It felt good to be back to work.
I was in the middle of reading all the updates that had taken place that I had had my secretary gather for me when Steph knocked on my door.
I looked up from the papers, expecting her to speak.
“You, um, have a call on line one.” Steph said.
“Can you take a message please? I’m a little busy.” I replied, looking back to the paperwork.
“I…I tried to tell them that but they insisted. The caller says its very urgent.” Steph stated.
I sighed and pulled away from the paper work and picked up the phone.
“This is Emily, how can I help you?” I answered.
“Finally, I’ve called like a bazillion times but every time I do I get told you’re busy.” Jordan’s voice came from the other line.
“How’d you get this number?” I said, trying not to smile.
“What, aren’t you happy to hear from me?” Jordan asked playfully.
“Ok, seriously, I am busy. I’m trying to catch up on what I’ve missed. I shouldn’t be talking on the phone right now. Can I call you when I get home tonight?” I said.
“What? Don’t you take breaks?” Jordan replied.
“Not when I’ve been gone for a long time.” I stated.
“It wasn’t a long time it was eight days for crying out loud.” Jordan laughed. His laugh was so rich it sounded like he was in the room with me.
“That’s a lot for me, ok?” I said, smiling.
“Ok, well why don’t you go get some lunch?” Jordan suggested. “Calm down some, that beautiful face of yours is looking strained.”
“Wait, what? How would you know that?” I asked in shock, looking up. That’s when I saw him standing in my doorway.
“Let’s go to lunch.” He answered.
“What are you doing here? You shouldn’t be here, you should be at the ranch.” I hung up the phone and went to him.
“I missed you already.” Jordan pulled me close and hugged me.
“Jordan…” I whispered, not sure what else to say.
“C’mon, show me the city.” He urged.
“Ok.” I agreed.
I went over to my desk, grabbed my jacket, keys, phone and purse and headed out with Jordan, him taking hold of my hand.
We drove in my car and I took him to my favorite restaurant.
“This is neat.” He said as we sat down at table and looked over the menu.
The restaurant was called Murrey’s and it was a simple but elegant building with amazing food.
“Yeah, Jerry and I love to come here when we go out.” I said.
“It’s a nice little place.” Jordan replied.
“I still can’t believe you came all the way here. What about the ranch?” I stated.
“Frank and Ronny are taking care of things.” Jordan shrugged.
“Jordan, you can’t leave your ranch anymore ok?” I said.
“No, I want to see you.” Jordan argued.
“Then…then I’ll come to you.” I stated.
“Really? When? By the look on your face today you don’t like leaving the office. I bet you that you’re at the office first thing in the morning and that you are the last person to leave.” Jordan replied.
“Ok, I admit that I’m a bit of a workaholic but I will manage to leave in time to come to the ranch every once in a while. Sure it probably won’t be as much as we want but we can get by.” I said.
“Ok, well I am going to stay here for a few days and see what you do as a daily routine so I can picture it when I call you and ask you what you are doing every day, ok?” Jordan smiled.
“You want to get to know my daily routine?” I asked.
“Yes so that when I call and you say you’re working I can imagine you working at your desk like you were today. Or when you say you’re at home relaxing, I can imagine that too.” He smiled.
“Wait, you’re wanting to come to my house?” I asked.
“I can stay at a hotel no problem, I’d just like to see your house.” Jordan answered.
“Um…well…its just a…a condominium. Nothing special really.” I stated.
“I’d still like to see it. Emily, I want to get to know everything about you.” He replied, reaching over and taking my hand.
“Um…Jordan, this is moving pretty fast already…I’m not sure if I can do this.” I pulled my hand away.
“You can’t give up that fast Emi. Now, I know this is a lot, and I really surprised you but is it really that bad that I came here to get to know you and your life better?” Jordan asked.
“No, I guess not.” I answered.
“Ok, so stop being so tense, relax and just enjoy it.” He suggested.
“Ok.” I smiled.79

***************80

I could tell that Emily was uncomfortable with me being with here, watching her go about her daily life. Even as we sat there and ate she seemed to feel awkward. When we left the café she took me back to her office building where she introduced me to her secretary. Then she led me into her office and had me sit in the corner behind her as she started working; I gladly just sat there and watched.
At first Emily was very conscious of my presence but eventually her shoulders started to relax and she seemed to be fine with me sitting there and watching her read over papers and sign things that Steph brought in to her. When I noticed her being completely relaxed I couldn’t help to smile. That’s when I got to thinking.
There had to be some way around our differences that would make us being together possible, a way that I could make Emily see was possible. I had offered to leave my ranch, my comfort zone to be with her, and she wouldn’t accept it. So what would be possible that she would accept? She was already limiting our ways of seeing each other by not wanting me to leave the ranch anymore.
Just then Steph entered the office.
“Your brother is on line two Ms. Kale.” Steph said.
Emily nodded and then reached over and picked up the phone.
“Yes?” She said trying to sound irritated but smiling as she did so.
She laughed.
“Sure, come on up and see what came to me today, maybe you can take it home for me.” Emily stated before hanging up the phone.
A few minutes later Jerry came into the office. When he saw me he seemed pleased.
“Well, hello Jordan, Emily didn’t tell me you came home with her last night.” Jerry said.
“That’s because he didn’t. He showed up this morning, it surprised me too.” Emily replied before I could.
“Oh, well isn’t that a nice surprise.” Jerry smiled.
“Could you take him home with you and…entertain him?” Emily asked.
“Oh no sis, he is your guest. I have plans for today.” Jerry answered.
“With your fiancé? Jordan would love to meet her.” Emily said.
“Yeah, I want to meet this girl that makes Emily so envious.” I stated.
“What? She doesn’t make me envious.” Emily replied, looking at me.
Jerry looked at us amused.
“Well, either way, I’d like to meet her if that’s alright with you Jerry. I guess Emily is pretty busy.” I said, looking at Jerry.
“She’s always like this. She doesn’t like distractions.” Jerry replied.
“Jerry.” Emily said through clenched teeth.
“Ok, ok, come on Jordan, I’ll take you over to my place. You can tell me more about this horse my fiancé is getting one the way there.” Jerry replied.
“So does your fiancé have a name or is she just the fiancé?” I teased.
“Her name is Kayla. I say his fiancé all the time to get used to the fact that he’s getting married soon. It still doesn’t seem real to me yet.” Emily said.
“Ah, I see. Well, I’ll see you later tonight ok?” I replied.
“Ok.” She nodded.
With that I kissed her forehead and then left the office with Jerry.
“So you came all the way here for her, huh?” Jerry asked me as we walked towards his car.
“Yeah, I wanted to see her at her normal life.” I answered.
“Don’t break her heart Jordan. You’re a nice guy, and I like you so I don’t want to have to kill you when she’s heartbroken.” Jerry said.
“I don’t plan to. In fact, I’m trying to come up with ways to make this work. Any ideas?” I replied.
“I don’t know, she’s worked hard for that company of hers, she will not want to leave it, ever.” He stated.
“I know, my other option is to move here but she won’t let me.” I replied.
“Of course she won’t, she knows how much you love you’re ranch. She would never let you sacrifice something you’ve worked hard for and love so much for her.” Jerry said.
“What other options are there Jerry? I love her, I can’t just let her go.” I questioned.
“Well, I’m not sure how you’d feel about this one but I’ve got an idea. Let me show you.” He stated as we pulled out of the parking lot.
“How are you going to show me?” I asked.
“I have to take you somewhere, you’ll understand when we get there.” Jerry answered.
“Ok then, I guess I’ll just have to sit tight huh?” I said.
“Yes, you will.” He nodded.81

***************82

I finally left my office at nine o’clock that night and met up with Jerry, Kayla and Jordan at a little club we liked to go to. When I got there Jordan seemed really happy and Jerry seemed to have become great friends with him.
“Hey guys.” I greeted them as I sat down next to Jordan in the booth they were sitting at.
“Hey, look who finally stopped working.” Jerry smiled.
Jordan greeted me with a side hug and a kiss on the side of my head.
“Hi Emily.” Kayla greeted me.
“Hey future sister.” I said.
“So how was work?” Jordan asked.
“It was work.” I shrugged.
“Doesn’t it ever get boring working all the time?” Kayla asked.
“No, I like my job.” I answered.
“Not many people do, I guess you’re an exception.” She said.
“I’m an exception to a lot of things.” I laughed.
“She’s unique.” Jerry stated.
“That she is.” Jordan agreed.
“Wow, that just makes me feel special.” I laughed.
“We weren’t saying it in a bad way, it was meant as a compliment. You’re a different girl, a special girl. You’re strong and independent and well off, not many women can say that these days.” Jerry said.
“There are plenty of women like that in my office.” I replied.
“Well you’re definitely more independent then the rest of them.” Jerry stated.
“And how would you know Jerry? How many of them have you met? I’m not any different then the other women I know. We want to show the men that we can do things ourselves too.” I replied.
“Ok, don’t get all defensive sis. We were just trying to compliment you, the end.” Jerry chuckled.
“Well, thank you.” I said.
“So, do you want anything?” Jordan asked me, changing subjects.
“Um…sleep?” I looked at him.
“Do you want anything from the bar?” Jordan specified his question.
“Oh, no thanks, I’m good. One of us has to drive us to my place right?” I said.
“Right, speaking of which we should probably get going there since I need to make a few phone calls, if that’s ok with you.” Jordan replied.
“Yeah, no problem. Need to check on the ranch?” I questioned.
“Yeah.” Jordan nodded.
I got out of the booth and hugged my brother and Kayla before walking out with Jordan, his hand in mine.
When we got to my place Lauren was excited to see Jordan. I made up a bed for him on the futon and then handed him my phone.
“Thanks.” He smiled.
“Hey, Mike just called and he wants me to come over, I think I’ll just stay over there tonight.” Lauren said.
“Oh, ok. See you tomorrow then.” I replied.
“Bye Jordan. Be nice Emily.” Lauren walked out the door.
I rolled my eyes.
“Well, I’m going to get ready for bed. I’ll leave you to your phone calls.” I said to Jordan once she was gone.
“Ok.” He nodded.
With that I turned and headed to my room. I pulled on my favorite gray sweats, a white tank top and the navy blue sweatshirt that I had worn home the night I had left Jordan the first time. I sat on my bed for a few moments before I walked out and headed to the bathroom. In the bathroom I pulled my hair up into a ponytail and then brushed my teeth. Then I headed back out to the living room.
“Yes, I’m sure Frank. Just…can you do it or not?” Jordan was saying into the phone when I entered the room.
Seeing that he was still busy I went to the kitchen. I grabbed a glass and started putting ice in the cup.
“Thank you, I’ll be home in a few days. I just have a few things to do here…no, I’m not like that. Thank you for understanding Frank. I’ll see you in a few days. I’ll call tomorrow night for an update ok? Tell Tanya that both Emily and I say ‘hi’ will you? Thanks again. Bye.” Jordan said next.
I heard him put down the phone and head into the kitchen.
I hurried and grabbed a soda to start pouring in the glass.
“Hey, sorry about that, Frank was being difficult.” Jordan stated when he entered the kitchen.
“Oh, no problem.” I waved it off.
“So, I’ll only be here for a couple more days. I have to get back to the ranch and take care of a few things that have come up but how about I leave on Friday and you come home with me for the weekend?” He said.
“Um, I’ll see. It depends on how things go this week. If it’s a slow week then I’ll go because I’ll get weekend work done but if it’s a fast week I don’t think I should leave, especially after already taking a vacation in the middle of things when they’re all crazy.” I replied.
“Ok. Can I help you get things done?” Jordan asked.
“Um, you can try but you don’t know much about business do you?” I asked in return.
“My ranch is a business, I think I can manage.” Jordan laughed.
“Well, I’ll see if I have anything you can do that won’t worry me. I’m kind of a control freak when it comes to my business.” I stated.
“Ok.” He agreed.
“Well, I’m going to bed, feel free to do as you’d like. Make yourself at home ok? Good night.” I changed subjects.
“Ok, good night. I’ll see you in the morning.” Jordan nodded.
I left the room and went to my bedroom where I caught my breath and then crawled into my bed thinking about Jordan.83

***************84

Plans were working out great, I knew that things with Emily and I would work out after I got everything going. I just had to make her believe it for a while longer going the way things were now. It stressed me out to have to deal with a lot of things at once but Emily was definitely worth it and Jerry and my friends back home were going to help me as much as possible. Even Kayla was in on it.
The next few days spent with Emily were quite fun. We went on plenty of dates and got to know each other even better. We grew closer and I knew I wasn’t ever going to love another person, that she was the only one I wanted to love in my life and if I couldn’t have her I would have no one else.
“Ok, I am exhausted. I can’t believe I’m saying this but I don’t want to work anymore. Want to go do something else?” Emily pulled away from her desk on Friday.
“Sure, why don’t you go home and pack some stuff? I’ll finish up here and then we’ll head to my place for the weekend.” I suggested.
“Jordan I can’t let you do my job.” Emily smiled.
“You need a break Emi, just go home and pack and come back ok?” I said.
“Ok, I think a weekend away will be nice.” She replied.
“Good.” I smiled.
When Emily left the office I called Jerry and told him our plans. Then I called home and let them know that Emily was coming home with me and for them not to mention my plans this weekend unless she wasn’t around.
I finished the last of the paperwork just as Emily came back.
“You finished it all?” She asked, amazed.
“That I did.” I answered with a smile.
“We’ll I’m ready to go and I put all your stuff in your suitcase. If you find you forgot something then I’ll bring it next time I come ok?” Emily said.
“Sounds great.” I nodded.
“Ok, then let’s go to your ranch. I need a horseback ride.” She stated.
“We won’t get there until late but we will go riding tomorrow ok?” I replied.
“Ok.” She agreed.
We headed out to her car, Emily informing Steph she’d be gone for the weekend and to contact Jerry or Lauren in case of something work related needed attending too.
I was happy to see that she was relaxed about leaving work to see me, it meant she was opening up to the idea a little better about coming to see me on some weekends.
We got in her car and drove off, me driving because I was the one that knew the way.
“So, you do know that this can’t be an every weekend kind of thing right? I have to work on the weekends, I can’t just pick up and leave every weekend because then things would never get done.” Emily stated as we got onto the highway.
“I know that, but it could be at least a once a month thing right?” I asked.
“Maybe, no promises. Weekends are usually my cramming times, when I finish up everything that I didn’t get done during the week.” She answered.
“We’ll work something out, and besides I have a few people that are wanting me to come out and train a few horses near your town so I think I can manage to stop in on my way out and back.” I stated, telling her the part of the truth that I could tell her without ruining her surprise.
“Ok, that might work better, since you’re already coming out this way.” Emily replied.
“This will work Emily, I promise. We can be together. I’ll show you, you just have to give me some time, ok? Don’t give up, please don’t give up.” I reached over and took hold of her hand.
“I won’t.” She smiled at me.
I relaxed and enjoyed her company once more, her hand still in mine.85

***************86


When we got to the ranch I immediately went inside and got ready for bed. I greeted all the dogs and played with the puppies before Jordan finally entered the house.
"You really like them don't you?" He said from the doorway where he stood watching.
"Yeah, I've always wanted a dog I just don't ever have enough time for one." I replied.
"Lou was the first dog I had when I started my own business." Jordan informed me.
"Really? How long have you had the ranch then?" I asked.
"Five years." He answered.
"Lou doesn't seem that old, he's as hyper as a puppy." I laughed.
"Yeah, but he really is a great dog." Jordan said.
"He seems like it." I agreed.
An akward silence fell between us when I couldn't think of what to say.
"Well, I'm off to bed. It's been a long day. Good night." I headed out of the room.
Jordan stopped me.
"I'll wake you up in the morning so we can go see something amazing ok?" He said.
"Um...how about the day after? I really would like some sleep." I replied.
"Ok, I should have thought of that." Jordan agreed.
"Well, I'll see you when I wake up in the morning then." I stated before heading to my bedroom.