One thing she’d definitely do while she was here, and that was create a relationship with Reba’s daughter. She’d felt an immediate connection with the girl and thought they might have a certain comfort to offer each other. And perhaps Carly could tell her more about Reba, her one-time best friend, and what she’d been like in her later years.

Everything seemed to bring back the past—being here in town, seeing Russ at the run-down motel, meeting Carly, who was the very image of Reba. Above all, seeing Cord again in this still familiar and yet very changed house. Talking to him. She hoped she was coming across as natural and sure of herself. Maybe she could replace that embarrassing memory of declaring her love in the face of his complete lack of interest.

She was afraid to hope for a second chance with Cord, much as she wanted it. But she told herself a second chance was unlikely, since there hadn’t been a first chance. At least they could resume a casual friendship… And, most important, she’d learn what she was in Montana to learn—about Christine Fletcher, about horse training, and, yes, about Cord. Because, maybe, just this once, things had changed. Or could change…

It had begun to occur to her that she should hire a private investigator to find Christine or find out what had happened to her. Eli, as a professional in law enforcement, might be able to suggest someone.

Shallie checked her cell phone. A text from her closest friend, Emma, who’d encouraged this trip. Another from her ex, Rob, who—she still believed—had her best interests at heart. She sent quick responses. It was now 1:40, and she should probably change her clothes and her state of mind—away from the past and into the present. She pulled on a pair of new jeans and a T-shirt featuring the logo of Emma’s company, Horses Help, an adorable pony and equally adorable little girl. A quick brush of her hair and she was ready for whatever the afternoon would bring.

Cord was waiting for her in the kitchen, yet another cup of coffee in hand. He grinned as he told her, “No comments, okay?”

Shallie grinned back. “Okay. At least not about the crappy coffee.”

“All right. Ready to go?” He poured the remainder of the foul-looking brew in the sink. “We’ll start with the introductions. Oh,” he said, “nice T-shirt.”