Runaway Cowgirl by Cheryl Dragon Read Free Book Online Page B

was the one who never minded a trip to Denver or a ride to another town if they needed a tool or different feed. Jack settled into the ranch life much better while Henry had no trouble spending days on horseback.
    “I’m not bowing out. I want you in private. But as far as a husband and father and an official type, you know me. I tell the truth. Jack is better. People will believe it easier.” Henry shrugged. “I’m more of a bachelor. The town won’t think twice about me staying at the ranch because it’s convenient for ranching. Good food, my nieces and nephews, and work will all be right there. We built the house big enough for that reason. No point in me getting married and moving.”
    “You and Jack. You really do love him, don’t you?” she asked.
    Henry grinned. “We love each other and have had our eyes on you for a long, long time. I want a family. Don’t doubt that. I just don’t have much experience with one. People look at you differently when you’re an orphan. When no one wants you or trusts you, it’s hard to believe in family or people. I trust Jack. He’s my family. I don’t need a piece of paper to tell me that with him or you. Love is what it is. I’m lucky if you marry into this. Make it real.”
    “It is real. You don’t need me.” She toyed with her food.
    He took her hand. “The hell we don’t. We both love you. We’ve always wanted a woman in our bed. It’s not new. It’s not a cover for anything. I mean, it would be, but we could’ve found someone long ago. We were waiting for you. If you need more proof, we’ll give it to you. We’ll find a way. Jack was right to keep you innocent so you can say no, if you want. Don’t you doubt our intentions or desires. We may have been born poor, but we earned our way. You can lose every penny you inherited and you’d still be comfortable the rest of your life with us. Children too.”
    “Most women don’t have as much contact with their prospective suitors as I have and I’m complaining.” Emily blushed.
    “We’re not totally traditional. I understand it’s a shock. But you’re special as well.” Henry went back to eating. “You didn’t run screaming from the barn and bring back the town to set us on fire.”
    She giggled. “Never. I don’t judge others. It is a big commitment, though.”
    “No rush.” Henry smiled. “But you’ll have to settle on one man if you’re going to have a long courtship. I won’t feel slighted. I can play the best friend and best man type as long as you’ll share in bed.”
    “You truly believe I should marry Jack?” she asked.
    “He’ll keep his hands to himself and handle the questions tactfully until the wedding. People will talk in town and I might punch someone.” Henry stared at her beautiful face. Their children would be loved by more parents than he’d ever had. As three loving adults, they’d never go off course or feel alone.
    “That’s true. There are bound to be hurt feelings since so many men were following me after church. I don’t want anyone getting injured.” Emily pulled dessert from the basket. “I believe you said your favorite was cherry.”
    “You remembered?” Henry grinned like a fool as he grabbed a piece. “I love you even more now.”
    “I didn’t bake it.” Emily stabbed a cherry with her fork.
    “We have a housekeeper too. You don’t need to cook. Your charity work is impressive. Most of the men don’t like the causes you’ve chosen, but whores should be able to read and write. They won’t be earning well at that work forever. Options are good.” Henry smiled.
    “You really mean that? Most people look at those women like they’re trash.” She licked her lips.
    He shook his head. “If I was born a girl, I could’ve been a whore. I had more options because I was a boy. I don’t forget where I came from. When I started to feel sorry for myself as a kid, I’d look at the young women and knew I was damn lucky. The way men talked