Little did she know that, from his perch in the hill above her, he had full view and access to her. Crouching, he began to unwind the rope. As he formed a knot and widened the loop, he slowly rose. “Told you I’d beat you in no time.”

At his bold statement, she sat forward and homed in on him, her eyes widening in surprise.

“Your roping skills are good but still no match against mine.” He fingered the rope, tucking it out of sight behind his thigh.

She watched him a few seconds, as though she might actually be glad to see him. Then her brows bent into a scowl. “Go away, Jericho. I don’t wanna talk to you.”

“I realize you probably don’t want to speak to me ever again, but I’ve traveled over a thousand miles to tell you—”

“Don’t say it.” She hopped up, as quick and nimble as always, and started walking away. “I ain’t listening.”

“Please, Ivy. Give me a chance—”

“Your chance already came and went.”

She was right. She’d already given him more than his fair share of opportunities to have her. But he had to try again, had to let her know he was done running. He lifted his rope and acted on instinct. He wound it in a sharp circle, twirling it in the air. Then, before she could get too far away, he flicked his wrist and let the rope fly.

He’d left the loop wide enough that it fell over her head and shoulders. By the time she realized what was happening, the rope was already skimming her torso. With a cry of surprise, she spun back around. But he’d already yanked at the slip knot, cinching it tight, pinning her arms to her side.

“Jericho Bliss! Let me go before I string you up and give you the whupping you deserve.”

“When I’m done talking, I promise you can string me up . . . if you still want to.”

She wrenched against the rope worse than a belligerent calf. “I will.”

“I’ll even lend you the rope when I’m done with it.” He tugged the loop tighter, not enough to hurt her, but enough to keep her from getting loose.

“Fine.” She struggled anyway, her eyes flashing with anger and hurt and frustration.

Her attention dropped to his neck, then skimmed the length of him. For a second she seemed to be admiring his body. And the very thought spilled heat low in his gut.

When her gaze lifted to his, the desire in her eyes sparked the air. She ducked her head, as if she didn’t want him to see her reaction. But it was too late. Her spark ignited his hope.