Making Her Mine Read online

  “That line is all used up, cowboy.”

  The look in her eyes, the growling sensation in her voice, her hair flying, is full of a wildness I’ve not seen before in a woman. I question if she’s real or a vision. It’s the exotic energy she throws off from the inside out. I doubt she’s even aware of it, but I can’t hide my intrigue.

  It’s arousing as hell when she steps up to set me back with her sharp tongue. All I can think of is sucking it into my mouth. Once I have a taste of her, I won’t be the same man again. That I know. It’s not a good position for me to be in but I’m going there anyway. I have to lay down with her, have to feel her wetness when I slide deep inside her, and it has to happen tonight.

  Chapter 5

  Race

  I need space. Tiny beads of sweat run down the back of my neck. The slightest touch to my nipples right this moment would release a flow of juice down the inside of my legs. His mere presence stirs up delicious ideas of how to spend a perfect night in Denver. Even with that old come-on line he’s got me spinning.

  Finally, I grip the handle of the historical glass doors, and exhale. I didn’t realize I was holding my breath. His tanned hand slides over the top of mine as he pushes the door open. The roughness makes a clear statement of a hardworking man. I know the kind of work it takes to make skin feel like leather.

  The pair of Longhorn bulls etched in the door glass are a true work of art. I look at them as I always do only this time my pace doesn’t slow enough to enjoy their uniqueness. My brisk steps take me across the lobby in short order.

  “Thanks for the company,” he calls out.

  I wave back to him. “My pleasure.” And it wasn’t a lie. A strangling taste of regret chokes me. Why didn’t I do what I wanted to do? Can I go back and invite him for a drink? No, for all the reasons whirling around in my head.

  A lady’s lounge is at the side of the lobby and I slither in but not before I look back and see him at the registration desk. The splash of cold water on my face didn’t help the letdown feeling in my gut. I need to forget it…work is why I’m here.

  A few deep breaths with my best self-encouraging statements releases a small measure of tension from my shoulders. Later I’ll be glad it worked out this way— there’s nothing worse than a morning after letdown. But it’s hard to envision being skin to skin with him could be a disappointment.

  A slow look around shows he’s not in sight and I step into the lobby. It’s a sad relief as I enter the small coffee shop near the elevators. The counter is empty, and I take a stool on the far end.

  “Coffee with cream, please,” I tell the waitress as I notice how tired she looks.

  “Make it two.”

  His leg slides against mine as he takes the stool next to me.

  “Hope you don’t mind,” he says. “I have to say you’re a hard one to keep up with.”

  I look at the winning grin on his perfect lips and realize I’m in a tight situation. My mouth is dry and my throat tightens.

  His hand shoots out toward me. “Jake Lancer.”

  I freakin’ hate to be in this position. This Jake Lancer has far too much charm to be safe around. My self-control disappears when he’s touching me…like now with the length of his leg flush with mine. His appealing manner— his good looks— makes it impossible to move away.

  “Race… Race Dorrance.”

  His calloused palm rubs against mine in a polite shake as he holds on for much too long. The amount of powerful energy radiating outward from him is overwhelming me. I sense he’s a gentle man for the most part. My mind flashes back to when his arms were around me. It was intoxicating, and I’m not opposed to feeling it again.

  “Race… only your father would tag you with that nickname.”

  “It’s not a nickname…”

  “Wait. You’re saying Race is your true name?”

  “That’s what I said.”

  Jake stares at me with an unusual expression but he regroups fast enough. People always react to my name but most often in a funny way.

  “Now that’s a name to get a reaction.” He chuckles. “I like it.”

  “I know we’ve never met but you do seem familiar in a certain way,” Jake continued.

  A loss for words isn’t a problem I have so why at this moment not a single answer comes to mind? Maybe there’s more to his surprise than my odd name. Did he recognize who I am? It’s never good for a strange man to know I’m the sole owner of the largest racehorse breeding program and cattle ranch in Colorado— and I’m single. Information along those lines can change everything between a woman and a man in short order.

  Dammit. Why didn’t I use my middle name?

  Excitement stirred me up too much when he sat down. I wasn’t thinking clear.

  Finally, I speak up.

  “Interesting you would think that,” I mumbled.

  “Which convention brings you here, Race?”

  “The Colorado Cattleman’s Association meeting… it should be interesting with water rights on the agenda.”

  He shows immediate interest in the topic.

  “Water rights can flare tempers in quick order,” he said.

  “Along with Mustang management,” I add.

  “So, you must have gone over the new irrigation laws. What’s your take?”

  “It’s bad timing. Change in laws right when a new Federal Inspector is coming on board. There’s no time for the ranchers to build trust in a new man. And no time for an inspector to get to know the lay of the land.”

  “Makes sense. Do you think there’ll be a good outcome?”

  “All depends on the new guy’s attitude,” I answer.

  “You’re a smart lady, Race. Attitude is the key no matter what the issue is.”

  The energy between us changes to a serious tone with the playful flirting set aside for the moment, but not too far aside. He still shows his interest. Another turn on for me is how smooth Jake can move into an intellectual conversation yet still treat me as a woman.

  Silence fills the space of a minute or so. Jake raises his cup to the waitress for refills then excuses himself.

  Chapter 6

  Jake

  My nerves tighten to an uncomfortable point as I dial the cell phone. If anyone knows who she is it’ll be my friend Robert.

  “Hey buddy… Got a question for you … have you heard the name Race Dorrance?”

  “Now you’ve gone and done it, pal,” Robert says. “Not much I can do to help you except tell you what I know.”

  He spills it out slow and as easy as he can.

  The news isn’t good.

  “I’ll be damned— are you sure?” I ask. “I thought the owner was a much older widow lady.”

  I listen to Robert with heavy disappointment.

  “I’m in Denver for a meeting…I’m with her now.”

  This little beauty I found is a highly respected rancher here in Colorado. I’ve heard about her a couple times since taking over the Federal Inspector slot, but I didn’t make the connection. Now I do. That’s why she seems familiar to me. The Dorrance name rang a bell. I’m damn sure no one on staff spoke her first name. A name like Race wouldn’t go past me. The way the other inspectors talk about her I took it she was a mature lady. No one ever gave a hint she was this hot ass woman who looks like she stepped straight out of a Playboy centerfold. My mistake all the way around. I should have asked more questions back then. If I had, I wouldn’t be in this mess right now.

  It turns out Race owns the famous Racing D Ranch and sits on the Board of the Colorado Cattleman’s Assoc. The same board I’ll be speaking to in the morning on new water laws which she just happens to oversee.

  I’m the new Federal Inspector she spoke of.

  How fuckin’ unlucky can a man be?

  Robert says her calling card is her skills as a brutal debater for rancher’s rights. Now there’s one more roadblock. It’s not likely there’ll be a good outcome when we go head to head in the meeting. I’m po
sitive it won’t be a pretty picture. When we’re done she’ll kick me into the ditch and that’s not the idea I have in mind. My plan is to lick her from head to toe tonight and do it again — often.

  He went on to say she’s highly educated and honest in business dealings. She’s a Master level horse trainer, runs rodeo and ranks in top level High Points. And holds Championships in Roping. Damn! Is there anything she can’t do?

  Robert told me he’s never heard a word of her dating anyone since her divorce, but he does know a sizable number of men she’s put in their place when they ask her out. She’s known to keep a far distance from men and keeps her personal life private. Period.

  She’s my dream woman alright. But here’s the catch. From what I’ve seen it’s a hard road to travel in a relationship with a wealthy, powerful woman like Race. They’ve had the hard lessons and keep their guard up. Now her distant attitude makes perfect sense. She’s been burned bad. I hear those kinds of scars are deep and seldom heal. I hope that isn’t true.

  Chapter 7

  Race

  When Jake returns he’s gathered his thoughts enough to become the happy guy of before.

  “So, tell me what you do in these parts…I already know you rope and work with those hands,” I asked and flash my best smile.

  “I came up from Texas a few months back— ended up buying the Jordon ranch in Eagle County.”

  “You found yourself a nice place, Jake. You like it so far?”

  “I do. There’s still work to get it running smooth.”

  My usual jesting comes out before I could catch myself. “The work will go fast. I doubt there’ll be any distractions out that far.”

  Jake knew what I meant. He pushes his hat back and laughs.

  “There’s not a chance I could be distracted now. You’ve already done a decent job of getting me off track.”

  “What about you? No doubt, you’re a ranch gal. That’s easy to spot.”

  “And I know you’re not a city man for sure.” I laugh.

  “Every inch of you says, “working cowgirl.”

  “I’ll take it as a compliment, Jake.”

  “You should. Few women can live up to the title. Plenty think they can but soon as the sun gets hot or the wind blows cold, you know what happens,” he pauses before continuing. “And I’d lay bets you’re a damn good roper.”

  “Are you shining up to me?” I tease back.

  “Doing my best to.” He runs his hand down my thigh with a light touch all the while looking at my face.

  This man knows the art of slow and steady.

  “You know roping is a lot about having a good horse,” I answer his comment. His hand is still caressing my leg. My imagination has me bare skin naked with his hands all over every part of me.

  “I suspect you could give me some grief with a rope in a pasture full of cows.” Jake slides his arm around my waist and squeezes me into him. We chuckle, and it relaxes the sexual tension, but not enough.

  “What about this. The steak house here is a fine one. Have dinner with me, Race.”

  The air is thick enough to choke on as he waits for my answer. He’s shown more than a casual interest, but he could be another one of those ‘bed them all’ guys. He’s good looking enough to get any woman. The problem is I hate the vibes of other women on a man’s body. There’s part of the reason my interest is low in the one-night rodeos.

  This is a no-win situation. I’ll be sorry if I do— I’ll regret it if I don’t.

  “You’re holding back… what if…” he starts but doesn’t finish the sentence.

  I take another sip of coffee, still thinking.

  “Time’s up. It’s dinner with me at 7,” he said with his ‘I love life’ grin.

  “Did I even have a choice?”

  “Nope,” he says, laughing. “I decided before you were out of your truck.”

  “You crazy cowboys can’t be trusted.”

  Jake leans into me, “Nor you hardcore cowgirls,” and touches his wet lips to my cheek. My approval shows in the form of a teasing pout.

  “Be careful girl. Those lips need kissing and I could start right here.”

  All my resistance fades at that moment. Before I wasn’t sure if Jake was a take charge kind of man, and he definitely is. He’s making plans all the while and he will get what he wants. That’s clear to see, which makes me wonder how far he’s willing to go to make his plan materialize.

  Jake put money on the counter as I slip bills into the waitress’s apron pocket. She felt my hand touch her and gave me a grateful nod. She needs a healthy boost today and I’m happy to give it.

  He takes my hand as we walk to the front desk where I check in and he goes to make reservations for dinner. The desk clerk assumes Jake and I are together and put me down for his room and one night. I quickly straighten it out, but it gives me the information that Jake is here for only one night. He must be attending one of the agriculture conventions same as me, though that didn’t come up in conversation. Why only one night? Odd, but I can’t dwell on it. There’s hardly enough time for a short rest and be ready by 7.

  “I’ll meet you in the lounge at 7.”

  “Let me walk you up,” and quickly puts his arm around me. “Your bags are in holding?”

  “I dropped them off before parking. Really, I’m okay.”

  “The lady gets her way…”

  “See you at dinner,” and I give Jake a sweet hug.

  No turning back now. Not that I want to.

  Chapter 8

  Jake

  The picture looks less promising by the minute for me to get close to Race.

  She did agree to dinner which is a big deal according to Robert. That alone tells me she’s interested. I’m going on with my original idea of getting to know her tonight, getting to hold her is more the truth. To pen her down wasn’t easy and now I know why. If she doesn’t offer any personal background I won’t ask. What I want is her in my arms pressing her sweet body into me. I have my own land with no interest in what she owns— unless it keeps me from getting what I want.

  It’s never a good idea to lower my protective shield with any woman but she’s made it necessary. The standard come-on bullshit has zero effect on her and didn’t gain me any ground. In fact, I lost ground. I knew better than to spill that crap out to her, but I did it anyway. What the hell was I thinking? Her strength of self is impressive. Race is a woman who knows exactly who she is from the inside out.

  Such a classic face, sexy, sweet and tough. All in one sizzling bundle. Her face alone is enough to make a man drop to his knees. Still, it’s second to her hard-sculpted body— what a mind-blowing ass— round, tight. Not to take away from her ample breast standing upright ready for attention.

  A hand full of either would certainly ease all the pains of life. Now that’s what I want— my hands on her. Screw what Robert says.

  I’m nowhere near ready to give up on her.

  Chapter 9

  Race

  The suite is plush, comfortable and nicely appointed in Victorian decor including an ornate claw foot soaking tub. Exactly what I need to take the edge off my nerves. A soak will relax me putting me deeper into the mood for pleasure. When Jake drives between my legs, I want it to be near perfect. A few drops of Lavender oil and mineral salts dissolves in the hot water gives off the scent of years gone past.

  It arouses me, the attention Jake gives me. When I lay down with him— I have to lay with him— I want every inch of my body to be alive and sensitive to his touch. I need him to see how completely receptive I am. I’m well aware of how my strong personality can put a man off. It’s important to me for him to leave my bed satisfied and content in every way yet wanting more. The idea of Jake as a friend with benefits is of interest to me. I’ve had the idea in the past but never ran across anyone appealing enough to make me move forward with it.

  The steaming water swirls around lulling me into a dreamy state of mind. I refill my wine glass and lay bac
k into the tub thinking about the outfits I brought. After envisioning what image, I want to give out, I decide on a classic black dress. It’s short and sleek showing legs up to there, showing ample cleavage. Black pattern stockings with strappy 5-inch stilettos will finish it off. I like the idea of dressing feminine tonight— something I don’t often do. Intuition told me to be ready for a twist in plans and I’m glad I took heed. Tomorrow it’ll be a different story with a tailored western suit, boots and hat for the meeting.

  Erotic visions of Jake drift into my thoughts heating me up like the water rolling over my peaked nipples. Full satisfaction has been elusive for too long.

  My body releases a silent scream for what it wants. That would be a man like Jake using me every way but loose.

  The fit of the black dress over my butt is the right amount of snug to catch an eye. That is, if they can look away from my full breast. No bra needed. My tits are up and inviting under the clinging black jersey. These ‘take me now’ heels send the clear message that I’m past the point of ready.

  Chapter 10

  Jake

  Taking a break before dinner isn’t happening. Instead, I hit the laptop to Goggle search for anything I can find on Race Dorrance. Page after page of photos, awards, champion racehorses… I can’t read it all in a fuckin’ week.

  Again, I’m struck by her unusual appeal. The photos show her to be such a unique beauty same as she is in person. The right word doesn’t come to me. She’s beautiful in all ways but that word is too simple and doesn’t truly describe her. There’s something else reeling me in, something different.

  I grab a cold beer and go back to the photos looking for the element I can’t figure out. And to enjoy looking at every inch of her. Even seeing her in a photo gives me a massive hard on— the same one I fought to hold back while I was with her. Beer number two and a phone call from the ranch foreman.