The Reluctant Cowboy (18 page)

Cole had wanted to reach out and talk with Sierra, but the week went by quickly.  He was busy making plans and attended several meetings.  He had instructed his attorney to follow his directives and was working with his COO on business decisions that were being finalized.  He knew Denise had spoken with Sierra and that she was cooperating.  He still had a lot to do, but the progress was promising and day by day, he was feeling better about it. 

He went to his personal care physician with the records from his bloodwork that had been taken at the hospital.  His doctor took some more blood and provided a lot more information about the disease.  He explained that because Cole had been fortunate growing up, not suffering any serious injuries, that it was quite common not to know that he had it.  Cole felt relieved, but would take the necessary steps to assure that Skye wouldn’t have any complications from it.  He checked the clock in the lobby and saw that it was getting late. 

He was looking forward to having dinner with his friends and relaxing for a few hours.  He wanted to include them in his plans for the future and to get their input. 

He picked up Christine on time and headed to a local hot spot they liked.  The restaurant was crowded, but he saw Zach and Carrie waving at them from a booth, toward the back of the restaurant.  They slid into the booth as the server brought drinks for Zach and Carrie, so they went ahead and placed their drink order. 

“Hi guys,” Carrie said, giving them each a hug.  “We are going to have to find a new place soon.  This one is getting too popular for us.” 

Christine laughed as she looked around.  They were making small talk as the server brought more drinks and took their food order.  “Show them the pictures, Cole,” Christine nudged Cole to get his phone. 

“I think I should tell them first…” he balked.

“Oh no, they will understand, once they see them.” 

Christine grinned as Cole found the pictures on his phone.  Zach and Carrie had a puzzled expression on their faces as they reached for it.  When their mouths opened, Cole rushed to explain, “Her name is Skye.  She’s my daughter.  I just found out last weekend.” 

Watching the disbelief on their faces, Christine laughed, “I know, right?  Last weekend, he was going to try and woo a woman.  Now, he’s a daddy.” 

“Cole, how is this possible?  Is Sierra her mother?”  Carrie was still digesting the information and pictures in front of her. 

“She’s a beauty, all right.  Looks just like you, man.”  Zach was studying the picture.

While they ate, Cole took his time recalling what had happened. 

“You must have been terrified for her in the hospital,” Carrie was saying, “I can’t imagine how you felt.” 

“We wanted you to romance her, but she had the big surprise.”  They continued talking and Cole felt himself missing Sierra and Skye more and more as the conversation continued. 

“Oh, and don’t forget to tell them about Sally,” Christine remarked. 

“Sally?”  Carrie asked. 

Cole laughed and told them about riding the horse and how much he enjoyed it.  They were having easy, comfortable conversation about horses, business, mixing the two and time was passing quickly. 

Cole glanced at his phone and was surprised to see it was almost midnight.  He let out a yawn and stretched.  He rested his right arm around the back of the booth, behind Christine. 

Zach and Carrie were still talking about his plans and how it would play out, when, out of nowhere, he felt a tap on his left shoulder.  He turned his head slightly only to find Sierra standing beside the booth.  He was stunned to see her standing there and more stunned by the look on her face.  He could tell she was livid.  Her posture was stiff and her amazing eyes were shooting ice daggers at him. 

He watched as she quickly addressed the others seated in the booth with him, “Pardon me for the interruption.  I needed to see something for myself.  Enjoy the rest of your evening.” 

She abruptly turned, weaving through the crowd to make her exit. 

“Sierra, wait!”  He shouted as he jumped out of the booth and tried to follow her.  He made it outside in time to see her getting into a cab.  “SIERRA!  Stop!” 

As the cab drove away, he continued waving to get the driver’s attention to no avail.  Sierra stared straight ahead, refusing to look at him.   When he could no longer see the taxi, he turned to see his friends standing a few feet away from him. 

Christine approached him first, breaking the silence, “Well, that was awkward.” 

“Not now, Christine.” 

“Cole, we can fix this.  It’s just a setback,”  Carrie said. 

He looked towards Zach, who reassured him, “You got this.  Doesn’t change a thing.” 

Cole smiled at his friends.  They were right.  He wasn’t going to let this change the course he had chosen.  Seeing Sierra so angry only made his resolve stronger.  He was just going to try and speed things up.

Surrounded by her friends, Sierra was calm as she retold the events of her quick trip to New York.  She had brought her laptop to show them, as well.  It was a Sunday afternoon and they were at Riley’s house.  Skye and Justin were playing, while the women discussed what happened. 

When Sierra finished recalling what happened, Vanessa spoke first, “I’m surprised.  He never mentioned her.” 

Riley chimed in, “I’m proud of you.  You took the initiative to find out on your own.  You didn’t just believe what you saw or read.  I’m not sure I could have done it.” 

“It wasn’t easy.  I took a flight out after work and went straight to his office.  He was in a meeting and I spoke with Denise.  I was going to wait, but she told me where she thought he was going after work.  She knew he had made
plans
with friends.  She also told me his meetings could last a couple of hours, so I did a little sightseeing while I waited.” 

“Were you scared, walking around the city by yourself?”  Dana asked her. 

“No, I wasn’t really.  I was trying to concentrate on finding the locations Denise had given me.  I went to one spot first, had dinner, stayed for a while and when I didn’t see them, I tried the second one.” 

“Was it far?” 

“No, but it was very crowded.  I had to wait almost an hour just to get inside.  Once I was inside and got acclimated, I just started walking to the back of the place.  That’s when I saw him.” 

“He’s not hard to find, even in a crowd,” Vanessa said. 

“He was sitting in a booth with his arm around her,” Sierra recalled, painfully. 

“You handled it so well, Sierra,” Riley spoke up.  “I love what you said.  And then you got in a cab and went straight to the airport?” 

“Uh-huh.  I had a hotel reservation for the night, but decided I just wanted to come home.  I was on stand-by and luckily got the red eye home.” 

“So, what happens now?”  Vanessa hesitantly asked. 

“Don’t know.  I’m going to continue to look for houses and wait to hear from his attorney.  Once I do, I will hire my own and work something out for visitation.” 

“Something just doesn’t feel right, Sierra,” Vanessa begged.  “Let me call him.  I can talk to him and see what’s going on.  I freaking want to kill him right now, but I can still talk with him.” 

“Thanks Vanessa, but I’d rather you not.  I promised to tell you everything and I really appreciate your support.  You hear about this stuff all the time.  I’m sure Cole will be fair and I don’t want to keep him from knowing Skye.” 

“Wow, my best friend has turned a new and, might I add, mature leaf,” Dana bragged.  The women laughed. 

Sierra added, sadly, “I’m glad to know now, before I lost my heart completely.  Once the realization that my fantasy was ruined for me, I didn’t want that to affect Skye.  She will still have a father.” 

“Do you expect us to believe that you will be fine with Cole and
Christine
picking up your daughter…together?” 

“Absolutely not!   At least, not for a long while.  I will make sure that stipulations are in place that won’t allow that.” 

“You go, girl,” Dana quipped. 

“I’m heartbroken, not stupid.” 

The women continued talking for a while and then, to calm herself a bit, Sierra wanted to go for a ride.  She and Dana took a couple horses out for a walk around the property and woods.  She loved the serenity of riding and letting her thoughts dissipate as she rode. 

She felt much better when she climbed into bed that night.

Cole was having difficulty concentrating.  He wanted to see Skye…and Sierra.  It had been almost a month since he’d seen or talked to either of them.  It was killing him not being near them.  He knew he had missed a lot, already.  As soon as he found out about Skye, he had sworn to himself that he wouldn’t be missing out on any more milestones with her, but had to remind himself that this “delay” was worth it. 

He was trying to listen as the board members continued their discussions.  He finally got a reprieve when Denise entered the conference room and motioned for him.  He quickly got up and followed her to his office.  “Well?  Any word?” he impatiently asked her. 

“Just heard from the realtor.  Everything is taken care of,” she informed him. 

Cole couldn’t contain his excitement and, in a rare moment, grabbed Denise and kissed her on the cheek. 

Laughing, she said, “I’m going to miss you, Cole.  It just won’t be the same without you.” 

“Oh, yes, it will.  If Robert doesn’t treat you like the queen you are, I will find out and fire him promptly.” 

“Oh, Robert and I are fine, it’s just you I’m going to miss,” she sniffled, tears springing to her eyes. 

“Don’t you dare cry on me?  You have been more of a mother to me than I ever had.  I will come and visit you and the family.” 

“I know, I know, don’t pay any attention to me.  I’m just so excited and happy for you.” 

“I could not have done this without you,” he spoke with sincerity.  “I have been a true task master this month and I’m sorry you worked such long, grueling hours.” 

“No, you are not, don’t pretend now.” 

“You’re right.  I’m not,” he teased, grinning down at her.  “Did you finalize the apartment lease with Christine?” 

“Yes.  She’s so excited about moving in.” 

“I bet she is.  I think the decorator is set to show up the minute I leave.” 

“You sure you didn’t want to keep the apartment for when you visit?” 

“Nah, it was just a place, not a home,” he explained, pacing in his office with nervous excitement.  “I have a home now, Denise.  I own a home -- my first home.  Do you realize what that means?  I will have to mow grass, and plant…things.” 

“I still can’t believe this is the first time you bought a house.” 

“I never wanted to before.  I came and go, as I pleased.  Didn’t see any need to buy anything.  Until now.”  He paused and Denise urged him to continue, “I own a home and have a daughter.  Can you believe it, Denise?  Me?  This reluctant cowboy is not so reluctant anymore.  I’m going to buy a cowboy hat…and a horse.”  He was practically giddy as he was talking to her. 

“Glad to see you are putting the hat before the horse,” she teased back. 

“Funny lady,” he grabbed her for another hug. 

“Cole, honey, I am so excited for you, but what about Sierra?  You haven’t spoken with her or included her in any of your plans.” 

Cole released her, but was still smiling, “Don’t you worry.  I have plans in the works on that front, too.” 

“I’m still worrying.” 

He laughed, “Let’s just say that I reached out to some of my new and old friends for help.” 

“Reached out how, exactly?” 

“I’m only telling you this, because I adore you.” 

“I’m listening,” she urged him to continue, raising a brow. 

“You know I have been meeting with some of my colleagues.  I’ve also been speaking with Jeremy Quinn and Vanessa.  They are my co-conspirators, if you will.  I have to admit that it was tough, convincing Vanessa to stay quiet until everything came together.  She was not happy with me, thinking I was in a relationship with Christine.”  While Denise laughed at the picture in her mind, Cole continued, “Once she gave me an ear full, she agreed to help me.” 

“How?” 

“I’m getting there.  I had to ask her and Riley to find something bad or wrong with all of the homes Sierra was looking at.  I knew Sierra was getting her search for a home narrowed down and I needed to stall her somehow.  The ladies helped by giving her, let’s just say, false information on the few homes Sierra was considering.” 

“Oooooh, you do realize that this whole plan of yours could very easily backfire if Sierra is angry enough?” 

“She won’t be.  Trust me,” he said, giving her a wink and then grabbed the box sitting on his desk.  He was actually whistling as he gave his office one last look, closing the door behind him.

Sierra checked the mail every day.  Because she had not heard from Cole’s attorney, she was getting anxious.  She didn’t think it would take a month to provide something, anything.  Not hearing anything from the attorney and not finding a home was making her cranky. 

She was snapping at her friends and family.  She thought she found a few good home choices, but Vanessa and Riley weren’t supporting her decisions.  Even Dana had found something wrong with every house she liked.  She had expected them to support her by joining together to fix whatever was wrong. 

It was early Saturday afternoon and fall was now in the air.  The leaves were starting to change colors. The temperatures were warm during the day, but cooled off quickly with the sun setting earlier. 

She wasn’t looking forward to moving in the winter and wanted to get a house purchased before the weather got too cold.  She needed her own space with Skye.  She loved her parents, but was becoming restless and wanted a fresh start.  She knew a lot of changes were coming and needed her own home to provide stability for Skye.  Deep down, she knew she needed it as much for herself as Skye.  She needed to be able to show the courts that she was able to provide for herself and her daughter. 

She felt her phone vibrate in her pocket.  It was Dana asking if she would meet her at Quinn’s place for a ride.  Sierra replied that she was busy, but Dana persisted.  “Okay fine,” she said to herself, as she replied the same to Dana by text. 

Her mom and dad had taken Skye to an apple orchard a couple hours away, so they would be gone for the day.  She knew they wouldn’t be home until fairly late in the evening.   Because she was in no hurry and had no plans other than to find a house, she agreed to the ride, as it always made her feel better.  She grabbed a light jacket and keys and headed over to the stables. 

There were a lot of people at Quinn’s as they were gearing up for another Quarter Horse Congress.  So much went into getting ready and Sierra felt slightly guilty for not helping as much as she used to.  The Congress had been such a large part of her life for several years.  She was usually in the fray of things, helping and riding horses for trainers, but had backed away due to her priorities shifting. 

She had to park down the lane as the barn was packed with people, who had taken up all the parking close to the barn.  She wondered if Dana hadn’t realized the timing, when she texted her.  Her phone buzzed again in her jeans and she practically yanked it out of her pocket.  Even though she appreciated the technology, she found herself wanting to throw the darn thing on some days, especially when she was in a bad mood, like today. 

“I’m here, already,” she mumbled to herself, as she texted the terse reply to Dana. 

She tried to shake the mood that she was in when she walked into the very active barn.  She spotted Dana right away on top of one of her favorite mounts, He’s a Charmer.  He was a stocky built, bulldog-style quarter horse, barely above 15H.  Sierra smiled as Dana made her way to where she was standing, just outside the arena. 

Sierra smiled at her friend, greeting her, “I forgot to ask if you are showing him this year at Congress.”

“No, just wanted to get him out and let him know I still love him,” Dana replied, patting the horse’s neck.

“I’m sorry I haven’t helped as much this year.” 

“It’s cool.  You have had other things on your mind.” 

Sierra heard someone calling her name and turned to see Riley and Brent waving at her from one of the aisles.  Dana commented, “I think they saddled Tinker up for you.” 

“Really?  That was nice of them.  You know I do remember how to do it myself.” 

“Yeh, sure you do.”  Dana was picking on her friend.  Brent led Tinker to where Sierra was standing. 

“Thank you, Brent.  I could have saddled him up.” 

“No problem.” 

Sierra noticed Brent was smiling bigger than usual, prompting her to ask, “What’s with the smile, Brent?  I figured you would be stressed with Congress coming up?” 

“I’m always happy to see you, that’s all.” 

She watched him, as he turned and walked away.  As she mounted the gelding, she stole a look at Dana, who snickered, “That was…odd.” 

Sierra raised her eyebrow to Dana, but was interrupted by Doug, as he came riding over on one of the new stock he was training, “Hey, Sierra.  You ladies might want to stay out of the inside arena for a while.  Quinn and I will be working on some cutting classes with some of our students in a little bit.  Sierra looked out into the crowded arena and saw Quinn working with another horse. 

“Yes, husband,” Dana said, obediently.  “We’ll take them outside and get some fresh air.” Dana blew Doug a kiss as they headed outside into the bright sunshine. 

“I should have worn my hat today,” Sierra stated, the sun blinding her.

“Now, I know you are getting lazy,” Dana quipped as she headed around the opposite side of the stables to the huge outdoor arena.  Sierra put one hand up over her eyes for shading as they made their way.    Several people were outside riding and standing along the fence as they approached.  Sierra recognized many of the people and greeted them in passing as she squinted at the bright sun.  “Let’s warm them up in here and then head for the trails.” 

“Sounds like a plan,” Sierra agreed, allowing Dana to take the lead as they entered the arena.  She took Charmer into an easy lope as she rode further away.  Sierra began trotting Tinker around and was looking down to avoid the sun’s glare.  She sensed another horse approaching her side and looked up when she recognized that it was Sally. 

She had to raise her hand to shield her eyes to acknowledge the rider.  For just a split second, she didn’t recognize him.  She squinted harder and gasped as she realized it was Cole.  “Surprise,” he said to her as they continued around the arena. 

She shook her head in shock before looking over at him again.  He was wearing a black Stetson Cowboy hat and a lightweight long-sleeved flannel shirt.  When she found her voice, she asked him, “What are
you
doing here?” 

“I’m riding Sally.” 

Trying to keep the frustration out of her voice, she continued, “I can see that, but… Why?” 

“I like Sally.  She missed me.”  His contrite answers were leaving her bewildered, not to mention the fact that he looked very relaxed, atop the mare.  Her pulse was quickening, but she wasn’t sure if it was due to his good looks or her confusion. 

“Okay, this is ridiculous.  What do you want, Cole?”  She checked the path, and then guided Tinker into the center of the arena, before bringing him to a halt. 

Cole guided Sally around Tinker, so that they were now facing each other, on the horses, then spoke from the heart, “I want you, Sierra.  You and Skye.” 

Sierra couldn’t control the laugh that escaped her, “That’s funny.” 

“Why is it funny?” 

His expression had taken a serious look, which made Sierra laugh harder, “You don’t communicate with me for a month, you kind of have a girlfriend and you show up here on a horse to tell me you want me?” 

He jabbed, “What’s your point?” 

In response, Sierra rolled her eyes and started to turn Tinker away from him, before he spoke again, “Wait.  I was
joking
.” 

She stopped as he moved Sally closer, so their saddles were touching.  He continued, “Give me a chance to explain.  That’s all I’m asking.” 

Sierra paused to consider, then replied, “Okay.  Just did.  Now, if you will excuse me.”  She turned Tinker again, but pulled back on the reins when she caught sight of
her
standing by the fence. “What is
she
doing here?” 

Sierra couldn’t take her eyes off the beautiful Christine in the flesh.  She had a floppy hat on, the kind you see at the Kentucky Derby, but her hair was in a ponytail and her striking features were unmistakable.  She was looking at them and Sierra felt an urge of pure adrenaline. 

She dug the heel of her boots in Tinker’s sides, startling him and put him into a full gallop out of the arena and towards the woods.  She heard people calling out to her, but she kept going.  She ran Tinker hard as she made her way to the woods.  She took a few different trails until she came to another opening and let him go into a full gallop.  She could feel his muscles underneath her and realized how foolish she was being with him.  She slowly pulled him back at the edge of the pasture to let him catch his breath. 

“I’m so sorry,Tink.  You okay, Buddy?”  She was stroking his neck when she heard another horse, approaching fast.  She tensed for a minute, until she realized it was Dana. 

“What the hell, Sierra?”  Dana pulled up Charmer beside her. 

“I know.  That was stupid.  She’s here, Dana.” 

“Who?” 

“That Christine woman.” 

“I know.” 

“You knew?”  Sierra shrieked, “Now, it’s your turn.  What the hell, Dana?” 

“Calm down.  I don’t know if Cole followed me.  He looked pretty upset when you took off like that.  I think Quinn stopped him, but probably not for long.” 

“What is going on?”  Sierra was thoroughly confused and felt betrayed by her best friend. 

“If you would just listen to what Cole has to say… Let him explain.” 

As Sierra stared at her friend in disbelief, she heard two more riders approaching.  She turned her head to see Cole and Quinn catching up to them. 

“You okay?”  Quinn called out to her, concerned.

“Not sure, yet.  Will keep you posted,” Sierra replied. 

Quinn signaled to Dana and the two of them trotted back towards the woods.  Sierra watched Cole dismount Sally and stand in front of the mare, holding her reins.  Looking up at her, lovingly, he whispered, “You scared me.” 

“Why?  I’m the equestrian here.” 

He looked at the ground and kicked at the grass, saying, “Not just now, I mean, in general.” 

“I. Scared. You?  Well, you still petrify me.” 

He looked back up at her, moving closer to stand by her leg, speaking from the heart, “My parents, Sierra.  I was afraid I would change, like my father did.  I didn’t want that, for myself.  I avoided relationships, because of it.” 

With the mention of relationships, she remembered Christine, and questioned him, accusingly, “Who’s that woman with you, then?  I saw you together in person and on the web.  It looks like a relationship to me.”

“It is, just not what you think.” 

“How do you know what I think, you haven’t talked with me…” 

“Sierra, she’s a friend.” 

“Right.  I know that term.  Friend with benefits.” 

Looking at her with clear eyes, Cole smiled big, “Nope.  Not that kind of friend.” 

“Not believing you.” 

“Just talk to her.  She is just a friend.” 

Cole backed away and got back on Sally.  Sierra just sat there for a minute, watching him walk away on Sally.  She caught up with him, quickly. 

“So, you just came here with your
friend
to tell me you want me?”  Cole nodded, and she continued, “What do you want, exactly?” 

She saw him grinning, and without looking at her, teased, “You’ll see.” 

“Don’t play coy with me now, Cole.  I’m still furious with you.” 

“Okay,” he said as he continued walking the mare. 

“Hey, don’t ignore me when I’m trying to talk to you.” 

“Okay,” he replied, as he leaned forward and kicked Sally into a run. 

He raced her through the woods and out into the open.  Sierra was right behind him and felt a moment of panic that he would fall off.  When they could see the stables in view, she was relieved that he had stayed on and slowed their horses down to an easy lope.  She couldn’t resist commenting as she got beside him, “Nice riding.” 

“I learned from the best.”