“Of course she can. Once we’re done with all the proper—'' Bronco levels my father with another stare that has him taking three steps back this time. I can tell I’m missing something. I’ve gotten good at reading my father when he’s trying to hide something from me, and that’s happening right now.

“What is it that you need?” I ask.

Again, when I speak, Bronco’s full attention swings back to me. It’s a strange sensation to both want it but it freaks me out when I’ve got it. Part of me wants to throw myself at him, and another wants to run. But I know one thing for sure: I’m not going to be a buckle bunny.

Not that I hold it against any of them. They can all do what they want, but seeing all the meaningless sex around me has jaded me, I think. Then again, losing my virginity to Bronco would be a hell of a way to lose it. Not that he’d even want it, but how could anyone ever follow him? I’d be ruined for life.

“I need you to not go around telling men you’re fully capable of handling everything that they’ll need, for starters.” I open and close my mouth, not sure how to respond to that.

“That’s kind of my job?” It comes out sounding like a question.

“We’ll see about that,” he mutters. “Thanks for coming out to meet me, Tracy.” He gives me a nod. I’m not sure if it’s to be polite or to dismiss me.

“That will be all.” My father quickly motions with his hand for me to leave.

With that, I turn and flee, and it takes everything inside of me to not glance back, but I could swear I can sense Bronco’s eyes on my back until I round the corner.

A part of me hopes that it won’t be the last time I see Bronco. A girl’s gotta dream, especially when you have my life.

Chapter Four

Bronco

“Listen Bronc, no hard feelings, okay?” Walker is already backtracking the second Tracy goes around the corner. “You saw what you needed to, and you’re not interested. No need to draw this out.”

I turn my head around and glare at the piece of shit in front of me. I’m so mad I can’t even form words. How could he just toss in his daughter on top of a business deal like she’s the keys to the building?

“Thanks for your time, and good luck to you.” Walker turns around, and that’s when I snap.

“You want to make a deal?” My words are clipped, but it’s clear there’s only one way out of this.

There’s no way in fucking hell I’m letting someone else come in here and claim that sweet little thing. Not a goddamn chance.

“Here’s the deal. I’ll give you the price you asked for, and I’ll take your daughter too. But I want you gone.”

He chuckles like I’m joking. “The deal is for you to own the place, and I get to stay on as managing partner. I need someone to fix the place up, but I plan on hanging around and enjoying myself.” He adjusts himself in his jeans, and I want to kick him right in the balls.