“You aren’t going to need help from me or anyone else.”

She let out a nervous laugh as something in his voice stirred feelings she had never experienced quite so acutely before. “I guess we’ll see, won’t we?”

“That we will. Well, I’m just about home. Time for lights out.”

“Thanks for the company.”

“Thank you. I’ll see you soon.”

“Good night.” She hung up but lay awake for a long time thinking about him and counting the hours until she could see him again.

Sunday dawned sunny and unseasonably warm. After the intense conversation they’d had the other night, Kate had gone from being excited to see Reid to being nervous, especially since Ashton wouldn’t be joining them. He was in Florida for a weekend fishing trip with his law school friends but had called to check on her before he left. She had swallowed her guilt when she assured him she was fine. He promised to call when he got home, but she told him he didn’t have to. In light of what Butch had told her, she was concerned about leading Ashton on. He had just laughed and said of course he would call. Ugh, she thought as she drove to Reid’s house with the window down. What kind of mess is this shaping up to be?

Her nerves over seeing Reid shifted into high gear when she reached the entrance to the long driveway. Don’t be ridiculous, Kate. He’s old enough to be your father. She shuddered when she imagined her father’s reaction to the crazy crush she had on his friend. She’d only had one serious boyfriend, and that was last year. Ryan was adorable, and she’d imagined herself in love with him. But when her father flipped out after catching them making out, Ryan ran for the hills and never came back. Just as well. Who wants a boy when you can have a man?

The man in question appeared when she parked her car next to his black Mercedes SUV. Her heart skipped a crazy beat at the sight of him in worn jeans, cowboy boots, and an oatmeal-colored cotton sweater that had seen better days. For the first time in her life, her mouth watered with lust. Cool it, Kate, she said to herself when he reached out to open her door. Just ride the damned horse and keep it cool.

His smile sent a flutter through her.

“Hey, you found me.”

“With no problem at all,” Kate said with more lightness than she felt. She wondered if he would die of shock if she reached up and dragged that beautiful mouth of his down to hers. It was all she could do to resist the urge as he stood close enough to touch, smelling like fresh air and citrus. Her every sense was on full alert, which was also new to her.