Her Tycoon to Tame
Her Tycoon to Tame
Emilie Rose
Greedy for a taste of her, Wyatt stroked his tongue across the lush, moist curve of Hannahs bottom lip.
Her flavour hit him with the punch of a straight shot of single malt whiskey, making his head spin and his body temperature spike.
Why her? Why did this woman who stood for everything he despised get to him? Hadnt he been burned by her type often enough to learn his lesson? Before he could make sense of her strange magnetism or get his fill, she jerked back, eyes wide and wary, and pressed her fingers over her mouth.
You cant do that. Youre my boss.
Reality slammed into him like an oncoming train. Stupid move, Jacobs. Youre right. A personal involvement would be unwise.
But even as he spoke the words he registered her heavy-lidded eyes, flushed cheeks and erect nipplessure signs that her hormones were pumping as rampantly as his. And as impractical and ill-advised as it might be, he wanted her.
Dear Reader,
Horses were a huge part of my childhood, and I miss them terribly. If I ever win the lottery, you can be assured my first purchase will be a horse farm somewhere in central North Carolina.
Fortunately, Hannah and Wyatts story gave me an opportunity to revisit one of my first loves, although my horse experiences were never anything as lavish as Grand Prix show jumping! There is nothing more breathtaking than watching a spindly legged foal take its first steps or taking those initial tentative steps into a new love.
I hope you enjoy the often unsteady steps of Wyatt and Hannahs journey. Let me know what you think. You can reach me online at my website, www.emilierose.com.
Happy reading!
Emilie Rose
About the Author
Bestselling Desire
author and RITA
Award finalist EMILIE ROSE lives in her native North Carolina with her four sons and two adopted mutts. Writing is her third (and hopefully her last) career. Shes managed a medical office and run a home day care, neither of which offers half as much satisfaction as plotting happy endings. Her hobbies include gardening and cooking (especially cheesecake). Shes a rabid country music fan because she can find an entire book in almost any song. She is currently working her way through her own bucket list, which includes learning to ride a Harley. Visit her website at www.emilierose.com or email EmilieRoseC@aol.com. Letters can be mailed to PO Box 20145, Raleigh, NC 27619, USA.
Her Tycoon
to Tame
Emilie Rose
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
To the Man upstairs for giving me more
time with my mom.
Each day is a blessing.
One
Hannah Sutherland pressed the pedal of the golf cart to the floorboard, racing the battery-powered machine up the long curving driveway toward the main house.
Guest. My office. N.O.W.
That had been her fathers text, and as irritable as hed been lately, she didnt dare keep him waiting. But who could be so important that she had to drop everything and hurry to the house?
When she reached the stairs leading to the back patio, she slammed on the brake, leaped from the vehicle and hustled into the house, straightening her hair and adjusting her hastily changed clothing as she crossed the black-and-white marbled foyer. The sound of her boots echoed off the vaulted ceiling.
At the sight of the closed office door, her step hitched. She hadnt seen that door closed since the day her mother had died. Apprehension climbed her spine like a spider.
She shook off her uneasiness and knocked on the glossy surface. A moment later, the panel opened revealing Al Brinkley, the familys lawyer. Hed been her fathers friend as well as his legal council for as long as Hannah could remember.
Good to see you, Mr. Brinkley.
Brinkleys smile seemed forced. Hello, Hannah. I swear you look more like your mother every day.
So Ive been told. Too bad looks were all shed inherited from her mom. Hannahs life would have been so much easier if shed picked up a few more traits.
His expression sobered, resurrecting Hannahs concern. Come in.
Her father stood behind his desk, his face tense, a highball glass in his hand. It was a little early for cocktails.
Movement by the French doors overlooking the east paddock interrupted the thought. Tall and lean, the other occupant of the study smoothly pivoted in her direction.
His glossy brownish-black hair had been clipped short, but not short enough to hide a tendency to curl that did nothing to soften his uncompromisingly hard jaw and a square chin.
And while his features combined to form a tough but attractive face, nothing would soften those cool, distrusting eyes, and no amount of expensive tailoring could conceal his broad shoulders and firm, muscled body. He had the lean, mean, fighting machine look often displayed on military recruiting posters and an alert and dangerous air. She estimated his age as mid-thirties, but it was hard to say. He had old eyes.
Come in, Hannah. The odd tension in her fathers tone made her wary. Brink, close the door.
The lawyer did as he was bid, sealing Hannah into the wainscoted room with the three men and a tense atmosphere. Private discussions were not the norm in the house. Nellie, who served as housekeeper, house manager and surrogate mother, was the only one who might overhear, and she was family in every way but blood. So why the secrecy?
Wyatt, this is my daughter, Hannah. Shes the veterinarian overseeing Sutherland Farms breeding operation. Hannah, Wyatt Jacobs.
Jacobss searing scrutiny strangely repelled and yet attracted her. Duty compelled her into motion. She crossed the Aubusson carpet. Who was he and what kind of closed-door business could he have with the stable?
Judging by his expensive clothing and the platinum watch on his wrist, he had money, but then all of their visitors did. Grand Prix show jumping wasnt for paupers or even the middle class. Their clients ranged from nouveau riche to established royalty, spoiled brats to dedicated, die-hard horsemen. Where did Wyatt Jacobs fit in?
Shed bet he looked good on a horse with that erect, confident carriage. His eyes were the color of roasted coffee beans, the pupils barely discernible with the sun streaming through the French doors at his back.
Welcome to Sutherland Farm, Mr. Jacobs, she recited by rote and extended her hand.
His long fingers closed around hers, and his firm, warm grip combined with the impact of that hard, dark gaze made it difficult to breathe. She might as well have had a girth cinched around her chest considering the sudden pressure on her lungs.
Dr. Sutherland. His deep, slightly raspy and seriously sexy voice would be perfect for radio.
He held her hand, extending the contact and making her wish for a split second that shed taken the time to freshen her makeup, unbraid and brush her hair and splash on some perfume to mask the scent of stables when shed quickly changed from her soiled work clothes in her office. But shed been rushing and done only the absolutely necessary repairs.
Stupid girl. Hes a client. And youre not looking for romance, remember?
She tugged her hand and after a brief resistance he released her. She pressed her prickling palm to her thigh. Shed broken her engagement fifteen months ago and in that time she hadnt thought about sex even once. Until now. Wyatt Jacobs made her tingle in places that had been dormant for a long time.
Her father offered her a highball glass of amber liquid. Dad, you know I cant drink when Im working. I still have to deal with Commander this morning.
Her frustration with the stallion shed left in the stables resurfaced. Commander wanted to kill everyoneespecially the vet in charge of collecting his semen. In the arena hed been a phenomenal competitor, but in the barn he was a bloodthirsty beast. His bloodline and list of championships meant she couldnt ignore him. His ejaculate was liquid gold. But she, her team and the stubborn stud had needed a cool-down period after an unproductive hour. Her fathers interruption had actually come at a good time.
Her father set the glass on his desk beside her as if he expected her to change her mind, reactivating the warning itch on her nape. Hannah brushed aside her misgivings and returned her focus to their guest. Jacobs watched her with an unwavering, laser-like intensity that stirred a strange, volatile reaction inside her, and try as she might she couldnt look away.
Shed met movie stars, congressmen and royalty with less charisma. For pitys sake shed dated and even kissed a few of them with no effect. So why did Jacobs rattle her cage?
Wait a minute. Was that anger lurking in his eyes?
There was only one way to find out.
What brings you to our stables, Mr. Jacobs?
Luthor, would you care to explain why Im here? Jacobs deferred. Funny, she would have sworn on her mothers earrings that he wasnt the type to defer anything and doing so now appeared to irritate him.
When the silence stretched, she pried her eyes from Jacobss handsome face and discovered her usually unflappable father looking defensive and uncomfortable, his pale features settotally unlike his usual calm demeanor. He drained his glass in one gulp and set the tumbler on the desk with a thump.
Her anxiety level spiked. Daddy, whats going on?
Ive sold the farm, Hannah, her father stated baldly.
She blinked. Her father had never possessed a sense of humor. Odd time for him to find one. But the idea was too ludicrous to be anything but a bad joke. Really?
He glanced at Brinkleys stoic expression, then back. I have places to go and things to seenone of which I can do if Im tied to this business every single day of the year.
She searched her fathers resolute face. He wasnt joking. The floor beneath her feet seemed to shift. She clutched the edge of the desk for balance. Her knuckles bumped the cold highball glass, but the chill of the crystal couldnt compare to the ice spreading through her veins.
She could feel her mouth opening and closing, but couldnt force out a sound. She shuddered in a breath then stuttered it out again while struggling to gather her shattered thoughts.
You couldnt have sold the farm. You wouldnt have. You live for the stables. As far as she knew he had no other interests, no hobbies. Nothing except horses, winning and Sutherland Farm. He didnt even have friends outside the horse biz.
Not anymore.
Something had to be wrong. Terribly wrong. Fear splintered through her and cold sweat beaded her lip.
Her neck felt like a rusty hinge as she forced her head to turn to Jacobs. Would you excuse us a moment, Mr. Jacobs?
Their visitor didnt budge. He studied heras if trying to gauge and anticipate her reaction.
Please. She hated the desperate edge of her voice. It verged on begging. And she never begged.
After a moment he nodded, crossed the room in purposeful strides and stepped through the doors out onto the veranda. A fresh-cut grass-scented breeze drifted in the open door, but the familiar aroma failed to do its usual job of soothing her.
Would you like for me to go? Brinkley asked.
Her father held up a hand. Stay, Brink. Hannah might have questions only you can answer.
Daddy, whats wrong? Are you ill?
He sighed. No, Hannah. Im not sick.
Then how could you do this? You promised Mom youd keep the farm forever.
The lines in her fathers face seemed to deepen. That was nineteen years ago, Hannah, and she was dying. I said what I had to say to let her pass peacefully.
But what about me? I promised Mom, too, and I meant it. Im supposed to take over Sutherland Farm. Im supposed to keep Grandma and Papas property in the family and pass it on to my children.
Children you dont have.
Well, no, not yet, but one day She paused as an idea pierced her like a nail. This is because I didnt marry Robert, isnt it?
Disapproval clamped her fathers mouth into a tight line. He was perfect for you, and yet you refused to settle down.
No, Dad, he was perfect for you. Robert was the son you always wished youd had. Instead, you got me.
Robert knew how to run a stable.
So do I.
Hannah, you dont ride. You dont compete. Your heart is not in this business, and you dont have the drive to keep Sutherland Farm at the top of the Grand Prix community. Instead you waste your time and money on animals that ought to be euthanized.
No matter how many times she heard it, the old attacks still chafed. She stuffed down her emotional response and focused on the facts. Mom believed in rescuing horses, too, and my horse rehabilitation program is a success. If youd take the time to look at the statistics and read the success stories
Your operation runs in the red every quarter. Youre careless with money because youve never had to fight and scratch for a living.
I work.
He grunted in disgust. A few hours a day.
My job isnt the eight-hour-a-day variety.
When your mother and I assumed responsibility for my parents old tobacco farm, this place was losing money hand over fist. We built Sutherland Farm into the showplace it is today by fighting and clawing our way up the ranks. Your mother had ambition. You do not. Robert might have managed to talk some sense into you and divert your attention to more suitable hobbies. But that didnt work. Did it?
Shed ended her engagement the day shed realized Robert had loved the horses and farm more than he had her. Hed been willing to trample people in pursuit of the almighty dollar. But her father would never listen to that. The men were like peas in a podidentical in their drive for success despite the costs.
Robert had been her fathers ideal of the perfect son-in-lawaggressive in business and a star in the show ringbut ultimately, he wasnt her ideal husband or life partner. She would have come lagging in a distant third in his heart at best. But she could hardly tell her father the only time Robert was passionate was in the riding ring.
Robert wasnt right for me.
Youre twenty-nine, Hannah, and no man has ever held your attention for more than a few months. Youre too picky.
Daddy, Im sorry I didnt inherit mothers grace and ability on horseback or your competitive streak. But this farm was her dream. And now its mine. I can run it. I may not know how to ride a champion, but I know how to breed one. I have what it takes.
No, Hannah, you dont. Youve had a few successes with your stock, but you lack fire and ambition and you have absolutely no head for business. Youre never going to be ready to take the reins of Sutherland Farm.
She flinched. His cruel words only confirmed what she knew hed been thinking for years, but they still stung like the whip of a crop. Thats not true.
Im doing you no favors by continuing to coddle you. He paused and glanced at his friend. I wont always be here to support you, Hannah. Its time you learned to take care of yourself.
What do you mean?
Im cutting you off.
Shock followed by a chaser of panic sent her staggering backward. What do you mean? she repeated.
I will no longer support you or your lost causes.
Why? What did I do? How will I survive?
Youll have to learn to live on your salary.
Hurt, fear and betrayal ignited like a barn fire beneath her breastbone. Couldnt we have talked about this before you made such a drastic decision?
Her father shrugged and realigned the pen beside a thick pile of papers on his desk. What good would that have done?
I would have talked you out of it. Somebody should have talked you out of it. She shot an injured and confused glance at the attorney who shrugged apologetically. This farm, this property has been in our family for generations. There are a lot of people depending on you and me and
Its too late, Hannah. Her father sighed and suddenly the starch left his spine, making him look old and tired. He refilled his drink, then sank into the leather chair.
She turned to Brinkley. Can he do this? What about my mothers share of the business?
Your grandparents put the farm in your fathers name before he married your mother. Her name was never added to the deed. You received the only inheritance youll get from her estate when you turned twenty-one.
And most of that was gone. Shed spent the money on her horses, confident in the belief that her father would continue to fund her efforts.
Then realization clicked, jolting Hannah out of her stupefaction. Wyatt Jacobs must be the one whod bought the farm right out from under her. The sneaky, conniving, inheritance-swindling bastard.
Cold eyes, cold heart, Nellie had always said.
Hannahs pulse galloped in her eardrums like stampeding hooves. If she couldnt make her father or Brinkley see sense, shed have to talk to the jerk who had usurped her and convince him to renege on the deal. Then shed figure out a way to change her fathers mind before he found another buyer.
She stalked through the patio door and spotted the interloper at a table, calmly eating from a plate of Nellies cookies and drinking a glass of milk as if he hadnt just blasted the foundation right out from under her life. She marched toward him and pulled up at his elbow.
This is my home. You cant waltz in here and steal the property. My father is having a momentary bout of senility and
Jacobs rose to tower above her, his face like granite. I didnt steal Sutherland Farm, doc. I paid more than fair market value.
He calmly lifted the cookie and took another bite. His insolence stung like a slap in the face. Then as she focused on the cookie she realized she wasnt the only one who would be blindsided by todays disastrous news. She swung to her father who had followed her onto the patio.
What about Nellie? Shes lived with us since Mom died. She has no other home, no other family. Just us. You cant turn her out to pasture. Shes too young to retire, and jobs are hard to find right now.
Wyatt has promised to continue employing Nellie.
Wyatt has promised. Right. And she trusted him about as far as she could throw all six feet plus and two hundred whatever rock-solid pounds of him. She glared at him. What about the other employees, the clients horses and the stables? Are you going to do a clean sweep?
Most new owners brought in their own teams, and she hated to think of the people shed known and loved like an extended family being scattered across the globethat was if they were able to find jobs with so many farms downsizing.
Ill maintain the status quo while I assess the property and the business.
And then what?
My decisions will depend on what I discover about the operation.
Whats to discover? You bought a world-class stable
Hannah, her father interrupted, Brink will go over the particulars of the agreement with you. All you need to know is that Wyatt has agreed to keep the current staff for a full year unless obvious incompetence leads him to decide otherwise.
Her shoulders snapped straight at the insult. Sutherland Farm doesnt employ any incompetents.
Then no one need be concerned, Jacobs said.
Desperation clawed at her throat. Daddy, please dont do this. Im sure theres a way you can undo the paperwork. Give me a chance to prove to you that I can run the farm and
Hannah, we closed the deal a week ago. Today was merely the first time Wyatt and I could meet personally to discuss the transition.
A week ago, she parroted. Her world had crashed and shed been oblivious. Head reeling and legs shaking, she tried to make sense of the upheaval to come.
Ive already purchased a townhome and the movers have been scheduled, her father added, sending another shockwave rippling through her.
Jacobs stiffened. A townhome? What about the cottage?
My cottage! Ohmigod. Where will I live?
Her fathers expression turned cagey. Hannah lives in the cottage.
Jacobss hands fisted by his sides and anger lit his eyes.
Confused by the exchange, Hannah looked from the interloper to her father. My home and my job are part of Sutherland Farm. Where will I go? Where will I live and work?
Her father sighed and turned toward the bar cart. Ill let Wyatt explain.
Luthor excluded the cottage and two acres inside the stone fence surrounding it from the deal. Youll get to keep your house. And, as your father has already explained, like any other employee youll be kept on staff as long as the quality of your work meets my standards. Jacobss voice carried about as much warmth as liquid nitrogen.
The man would be her boss.
Your standards? From his tone she gathered his standards would be impossible to meet.
Her cottage, the original Sutherland homestead, sat smack in the middle of Sutherland Farm. Shed be surrounded by enemy territory. But at least shed have a roof over her head.
She swallowed her panic and fought to clear her head. When is all this upheaval scheduled to take place?
Im taking over as CEO today and moving into this house as soon as your father has vacated.
In other words, life as shed always known it had ended.
Two
Anger licked along Wyatts nerve endings like kindling catching fire. Luthor Sutherland had deliberately deceived him.
The man had no intention of retiring to the original homestead as hed led Wyatt to believe when hed insisted the parcel be excluded from the sale, and Sutherlands daughter was one of the employees Sutherland had been so eager to protect. If Wyatt had known, he would never have signed the employee agreement Sutherland had insisted on.
But if Luthor expected Wyatt to cut his princess any slack, hed be disappointed. If Hannah couldnt carry her weight, shed be firedper the performance clause Wyatt had included.
What incensed him the most was that he knew he had no one but himself to blame for deception getting past him. Hed been neck-deep in closing an international distribution deal and because he didnt have the time, interest or knowledge in running a horse farm, hed delegated the job of finding a self-sufficient operationone that wouldnt require him to be on-siteto the best buyers agent in the business.
Sutherland Farm met all his criteria. He couldnt help wondering if there were any more surprises in addition to the leggy brunette liability yet to discover. Whatever the issues, he would find and eradicate them.
He had enough problems without having to deal with a pampered heiress who had been living out of her daddys deep pockets. The snippets of conversation hed overheard through the patio door made it clear that description fit Hannah Sutherland from her silk shirt to her polished high-heeled boots.
Hed bet his seven-figure investment portfolio that Hannah had coasted through life on her beauty and pretty-please smiles. His gut warned him shed be nothing but trouble. And his instincts about people were rarely wrong. He didnt need to see the two carats of diamonds in her ears or the watch on her wrist so pricey that a thief could pawn it to buy a car or her short but perfectly manicured nails to confirm her overindulged status.
I want every employees file before I leave today, he demanded without looking away from the smoky blue eyes shooting flames at him.
Thats confidential information, Hannah protested.
Hannah, Sutherlands lawyer interjected, as the new owner of Sutherland Farm, Mr. Jacobs has unrestricted access to employee records.
But
Wyatt nailed her with a hard look. Ill start with yours. I have a pretty good idea what Ill find. Private schools. Sororities. European vacations paid for by Sutherland Farm.
Hannah glared at him. Tension quivered through her slender, toned body. Her breasts rose and fell rapidly, and despite his aversion to spoiled women and his anger over his predicament, awareness simmered beneath his skin.
Something about her got to him. She had a subtle grace and elegance about her that both attracted him and, because of his past relationships with her type, repulsed him. Hed been burned by her kind before.
I graduated from an accredited veterinary school, she said through barely moving lips. My credentials are valid, and since Warmbloods are a European breed, visiting the established and successful breeding farms to study their setups and evaluate their stock for potential matches is a necessary part of my job.
Im sure you have references from your previous employers to prove your worth as an employee.
Her chin jerked up a notch and she managed to look down her straight nose at him in the way only wealthy women coulda lesson hed had driven into him like a railroad spike when hed been seventeen and green and working at his stepfathers stable. Back then he hadnt been smart enough to know rich daddys darlings didnt marry boys who cleaned stalls for their stepfathers stables no matter how intimate the relationship might have become.
I have worked here since graduatingalmost five years. Im good at what I do.
Ill be the judge of that.
She folded her arms and cocked back on one of those long legs. Tell me, Mr. Jacobs, what exactly are your credentials for determining whether or not staff members are performing well?
Hannah the attorney cautioned, but Wyatt silenced him with a look.
Im CEO of Triple Crown Distillery. I employ over six hundred. I recognize incompetents and slackers when I see them.
Anger stained her cheeks a fiery red, proving shed picked up his implication that he considered her one. As Ive already stated, the Sutherland team doesnt have any weak links. Were a cohesive unit, one of the best in the industry.
That remains to be seen. Wyatt was beginning to wish hed chosen one of the other dozen properties the real estate agent had presented. But as wise as that option now appeared, none of those farms had fit Sams descriptions and all would have required Wyatts input as a manager. Input he didnt have the time or inclination to give.
When Sam reminisced about the Kentucky thoroughbred farm hed once owned, he sounded so lucid Wyatt could almost forget his stepfather was fading away right before his eyes. Sutherland Farm resembled Sams old farm more than any of the other properties, and Sam deserved to be comfortable, happy and, most importantly, safe for however long he had left. He would be here. Wyatt would make damned sure of it.
And he had no intention of letting Hannah Sutherland prevent him from repaying the debt he owed to the man whod been a better parent to him than his own flesh and blood.
Just watch your step, doc. Your father may have indulged you, but I wont. Youll earn your keep if you want to remain employed here. Now, if youll excuse me, I have files to review and you need to get back to work.
Exhausted, Hannah plodded down the driveway toward her cottage, a hot bubble bath and a glass of wine.
One of her rescue mares kept pace beside her on the opposite side of the white board fence. Hannah found the horses undemanding company soothing. Unlike people, who were easily disappointed, horses never expected too much.
It had been a tough week. Since her world crashed shed been juggling her usual duties plus the new ones thrust unexpectedly on her. The staff had turned to her for answersanswers she didnt have.
The mood in the barns grew more oppressive, like an impending summer storm, with each day that Wyatt Jacobs failed to make an appearance. Usually affable employees were on edge and snapping at each other. Even the horses had picked up on the bad vibes and been harder to handle than usual. Hannah wished Jacobs would show up just to break the tension. Not that she wanted to see him again.
The phone on her hip vibrated. The digital display read private caller. Could be a client or, if she was lucky, a wrong number. She didnt have the energy to deal with another crisis or panicking coworker.
She hit the answer button. Hannah Sutherland.
Wyatt Jacobs. Come to my office in the house. Now.
Click.
Her feet stuck to the pavement as if shed stepped in fresh tar. She scowled at the now silent phone then she looked across the lawn toward the main house. A light glowed in her fathersWyatt Jacobssstudy.
The usurper had arrived. And hed hung up on her. The rude, inconsiderate jerk. Anger charged through her system, riding on the back of a burst of adrenaline. How dare he demand an appointment this late in the evening?
She considered calling back and telling him she was off the clock and shed see him tomorrow. But according to the clause in her new contract, which Brinkley had pointed out, she couldnt refuse the bosss summons without jeopardizing her job.
She glanced at her stained clothing. If she were truly interested in making a good impression, shed clean up first.
She wasnt.
Shed done an internet search on Jacobs and found nothing linking him to horses in any way. Why had he bought the farm?
Was he one of those new-money guys who thought owning a horse farm would be trendy and fun? If so, he wouldnt have a clue how much work, money and commitment were involved in a stable the size of Sutherland. If she had to teach him herself, hed learn, and if she smelled like sweat and horses and other unpleasant stuff, shed only be furthering his education.
As much as she hated going into the meeting at a messy disadvantage, hed have to deal with her dirt. Welcome to the horse business, Wyatt Jacobs.
Energized by resentment and determination Hannah marched across the lawn and up to the kitchen door. A sideways glance down the patio brought her hand to a halt inches shy of the knob.
An unfamiliar rectangular teak table and chairs occupied the space once graced by elegant glass-topped wrought iron furniture and classic urns overflowing with spring flowers. The sight drove home the reality that this wasnt her fathers house anymore, and she didnt have the right to casually enter through the kitchen and feast on Nellies delicious cooking.
Ten yards away the patio door leading to the office opened, and Wyatt Jacobss tall, broad-shouldered frame filled the gap. His dark gaze pinned her like a thumbtack stabbing into a bulletin board.
Come in, doc. He gestured with a sharp beckoning motion of his handthe same way he would order a dog.
Her hackles rose. Everything about him made her want to snarl and growl and that surprised her. Who was this strange woman with the bad attitude who had taken over her body? It certainly wasnt her. She preferred gracious smiles, gentle persuasion and Southern charm. Kill em with kindness, Nellie had always said, and the strategy had worked for Hannah thus far.
Wyatt Jacobs brought out her witchy side. Her churning stomach warned her to handle this encounter with care. Jacobs, the one man she didnt know and didnt care to know, held her future and that of her horses and the rest of the staff in his hands. Being cooperative was imperative.
Shed be damned if shed let him know how afraid she was of losing everything.
Id rather talk out here. Even though she delivered the words with a civil smile, Hannah Sutherland bristled with visible animosity. She pointed to her dust-covered black low-heeled boots. Since I wasnt expecting your call this late in the day, Ive brought barn with me.
Her boots werent all that was dirty. He noted the smudge filling the hollow beneath one high cheekbone, then a stain on her white Sutherland Farm logo polo shirt drew his eyes to the curve of her breasts. Another dirty streak on her khaki pants ran down the inside of her lean, taut thigh. Her current garb was a far cry from the designer duds shed been wearing the day theyd met, but she still wore the pricey watch and ice-cube-size earrings.
He caught a subtle whiff of the stables on the breeze. But along with the smell of horses, wood shavings and hay another scentsomething feminine and alluring like expensive French perfumesnagged his attention. His heart inexplicably and annoyingly pumped faster.
Hed studied her rsum and bio the way he would a blueprint, searching for flaws and weaknesses, and hed found nothing to like in her privileged, worry-free upbringing. Shed apparently been given everything shed ever wanted on a silver platter.
Other than your years at college youve never lived away from dear old dad or his checkbook, have you?
Her slender frame stiffened and her smile faltered. No.
You never held a job, before waltzing into this one.
I didnt waltz in. I earned my degree. And I gained experience by volunteering at the universitys stables. I wasnt on the payroll because I didnt need the money. I didnt think it fair to take it from someone who did.
Even with, or possibly because of, Sams help, Wyatt had worked his ass off to get where he was today. Sam might have paid the tuition, but hed made Wyatt prove himself every step of the way. Hed learned the business from the ground up, and Triple Crown Distillerys distribution and profit margins had increased by sixty percent since he had taken control after Sams retirement.
But Wyatts bitterness and resentment over Hannahs worry-free life didnt stop the spurt of energy racing through his veins when Hannah glared at him.
Im off the clock, Mr. Jacobs. Was there something you needed that couldnt wait until tomorrow?
The setting sun highlighted the streaks of gold in her brown wavy hairstreaks probably applied by an overpriced hairdresser. Her blue eyes showed no mercy, no interest and no feminine softness. She didnt want him here, and her attempt at hiding her feelings failed miserably.
Meet me in the stables business office tomorrow at noon.
Why? Her eyes narrowed with suspicion.
Youre going to show me around the farm.
Her stiff shoulders snapped back, becoming even more rigid. She hit him with that hoity, looking-down-the-nose appraisal that reminded him of his first love, first heartache and first betrayal by a woman.
I cant drop everything to play tour guide for you. Sir, she tacked on at the last minute.
He wasnt used to openly antagonistic females. He would have to be an idiot not to realize his looks and money made most of her gender eager to please. But from the tension and displeasure radiating from her, he would hazard a guess that she didnt give a rats ass what he thought of her and her disheveled state. Or maybe shed dirtied up intentionally to make it look as though she worked hard. Yeah, that was probably the case. He doubted Ms. Perfect Manicure ever got her hands dirty.
Youll report at noon if you value your job.
I have a full schedule tomorrow. This is the busy season.
Why?
She blinked, revealing long, thick lashes he hadnt noticed before. Why what?
Why is this the busy season?
A pleat formed between her eyebrows. Not only do we have a lot of boarders showing up to ride on Saturdays, I shouldnt have to tell you were preparing for the breeding season.
His knowledge of horse breeding was limited. Sam had always given Wyatt more menial jobsthe kind that built character as well as muscle and calluses. Or so Sam had insisted. Noon, Dr. Sutherland.
Ill find someone else to show you around, someone who has the time.
Your father claims you know more about Sutherland Farm than any other employee. I dont want someone else. I want you. Thats not negotiable.
Of course I know the most about the farm. Ive lived here all my life, and Ive covered every inch of the property. But as much as Id love to show you all the wonderful things about Sutherland Farm, I have a production schedule to maintain.
Somethingmaybe a primitive urge to knock her off the pedestal shed put herself onmade Hannahs resistance both challenging and a turn-on.
That makes you one twisted fool, Jacobs.
A nerve at the corner of his mouth twitched as he fought to conceal his irritation with her and himself. Youre not going to make it that easy for me, are you, Hannah?
What do you mean?
Per your contract, if you fail to meet my expectations youll be fired. Make time to show me around or pick up your final paycheck.
Her lips flattened into a thin line and anger flagged her cheeks with red. You like the power of holding the contracts you made us sign over our heads, dont you? Were all here on a trial basis even though weve been successfully doing our jobs without your interference for years.
Im the boss. Your boss. Thats the way it works.
Her irritated gaze snapped up and down his Armani suit without the admiration he usually received. She heaved an aggravated breath. Ill be there, but leave the fancy duds behind unless you plan to stay in the golf cart.
She pivoted on her heel with military precision then marched off the patio, her firm, round bottom swishing with each long, angry stride. He couldnt peel his gaze away and his body reacted with unexpected and unwanted appreciation.
Oh, yeah, hed called it right. Hannah Sutherland with her expensive jewelry, highlighted hair, manicured hands and entitled attitude was going to be nothing but trouble.
Until he got rid of her.
And that couldnt happen soon enough.
Three
The door to Hannahs lab opened abruptly on Saturday morning, startling her. Wyatt stalked in as if he owned the placewhich he did, technically. But this was her domainthe only place that remained orderly and tranquil no matter what chaos reigned in other parts of her life.
Her muscles snapped taut and the hair on her nape sprang to attention. Shed never experienced such instant antagonism toward anyone before, and the strength of the emotion roiling inside her now surprised her.
You said twelve. Youre early. She tried to keep her tone polite, but judging by his scowl, she failed.
His dark eyes panned the spotless room as if inventorying each piece of equipment before returning to her and examining her as thoroughly. The rain is predicted to worsen. I want my tour now.
Rain? Hannah blinked and listened. Sure enough, rain snare-drummed on the barns metal roof. Shed been so engrossed in her tasks and her troubles that she hadnt even noticed the rat-a-tat-tat before now. Usually the sound relaxed her. But not today, thanks to the irritant in front of her.
She stood her ground and returned his appraisal. The hard line of his jaw gleamed from a recent shave and his hair looked dampeither from the weather or a recent shower if he were the type to waste a morning lying in bed. A picture of him on twisted sheets popped into her head.
Where had that come from? She kicked it away.
A black cashmere sweater stretched across his broad shoulders, the white of a T-shirt showing in the V-neck, and faded jeans clung to his hips and long, muscled thighs. Somethingmost likely aggravationquickened her pulse. It couldnt be anything else. She didnt like him or his arrogant attitude.
I still have orders to process before the courier service arrives. Come back at twelve. Please, she added. She wasnt going to let him disrupt her schedule and thereby give him grounds to fire her.
Reviewing employee performance is part of any new business venture. Ill start with yours. You work. Ill observe.
Anxiety tangled with the coil of exasperation snaking through her. She couldnt throw him out. Then at least close the door. This is a controlled environment. The room needs to remain dust-free, and the temperature as constant as possible.
Is it that important?
Considering I handle thousands of dollars worth of product every day, yes, quality control is important.
Curiosity sharpened his eyes. He strolled toward her, encroaching on her personal space, but she kept her boots planted, refusing to surrender her spot by the microscope despite an almost visceral urge to back far, far away.
What are you working on, doc?
An odd question from the man who owned everything in front of him. Everything except her, that is. Im confirming the viability of the sample before I chill and ship it.
Sample of what?
He was kidding. Right? But if so, he did so with a straight face. Hey, she could play along. Sperm. Want to take a look?
His short, thick lashes flickered, then he moved forward, calling her bluff and forcing her to yield territory to avoid contact. He bent over the microscope. Tell me what Im looking for.
Unsure whether he was testing her knowledge or simply being a pain in the rear, she scowled at the thick, dark strands covering the back of his head. Youre checking to see whether the sample has enough potency to get the job done.
He straightened. Their gazes collided unexpectedly and held. Her thoughts scattered like bowling pins. Tension crackled between them.
And the answer?
She inhaled slowly, trying to remember his question, but a trace of his colognesomething hinting of patchouli, sandalwood and cypressdistracted her. He smelled good and looked good. Too bad he was a jerk. Shed dealt with enough overinflated egos over the years to know bad attitude cancelled out any positives.
Yes, this is a fertile stud, and a good thing, too, since Commander is Sutherland Farms top moneymaker.
Determined to get back to business, she waved him out of the way and bent over the eye pieces, but his presence disturbed her. She could feel him dissecting and cataloging her every action as if he were waiting for her to make a mistake. When she adjusted the focus her hands werent as steady as theyd been before his arrival, and it annoyed her that he could rattle her so easily.
Whats the purpose of all the equipment and charts?
Another odd question from Sutherlands new owner. She lifted her head and put down the pencil shed been using to make notes. If I explain, will you go away and let me finish my job?
Im not leaving until youve given me a satisfactory tour.
Not what she wanted to hear. Are you completely ignorant of the business into which youve invested millions?
Whoops. Not nice, Hannah. What happened to killing him with kindness and not making waves?
You mean the business I own, the one that pays your salary?
He had her there. And if she wanted to continue receiving that paycheck so that she could care for her horses and put food on her table, shed better dam the resentment pouring from her mouth. I apologize. The clock is ticking and I really need to get this order ready before the sample is ruined.
Answer my question, Hannah.
The shelves are filled with the collection equipment we use. Each stud has his own Her cheeks warmed and her tongue tangled. Oh, for pitys sake. Reproduction was her job. Discussing it was routine. So why did explaining it to him make her uncomfortable? They werent discussing her personal sexual preferences.
Or his.
An image of him bare-chested, braced on his forearms above her and with passion instead of irritation tightening his features flashed in her mind. Her womb clenched. She inhaled sharply.
Girl, you have been too long without a mans attention.
She cleared her throat and, trying to ignore the unwelcome warmth seeping through her, carefully chose her words. Stallions have likes and dislikes that could interfere with or assist in production and collection. We get our most successful outcomes when the positive elements are in place, and we keep track of each studs preferences with the charts.
His eyes narrowed and for a moment the air seemed to hum with tension. Sutherland Farm has two veterinarians on staff. Your position seems redundant. Why should I continue paying your salary?
Alarm froze any lingering awareness faster than a liquid nitrogen dip. Youre asking me to justify my job?
Correct. Convince me nepotism wasnt a factor in your hiring.
She dampened her suddenly dry lips. Our staff vet oversees general animal health. I oversee breeding.
Something animals have managed without assistance or all this equipment since the beginning of time.
Breeding is Sutherland Farms bread and butter. Without the raw material, our trainers cant produce champions. We continue to make money off successful mares and studs for years, sometimes even decades, after they leave the show ring.
And why cant the staff vet oversee that?
Developing a winning bloodline is far more complicated than randomly pairing animals and hoping for a pretty foal. Its an intricate mix of genealogy, genetics, biology and veterinary science aimed at producing an animal with optimal traits and minimal deficiencies. Its a scienceone at which I happen to excel.
He didnt look impressed.
Tell me, Wyatt, exactly how much do you know about horse breeding?
My knowledge of horses is limited to thoroughbreds.
That explained a lot. And yet you bought a Warmblood farm. Thoroughbreds are bred naturally. Sutherland Farm does almost everything by artificial insemination.
Why?
There are several reasons. Our horses are too valuable to risk one of them getting injured during the natural breeding process, and artificial insemination allows us to service mares globally and not only in our barns. Its cost-effective and less stressful for the mares than being shipped to the stallions home stable. Shipping a horse overseas is expensive and often disturbs her cycle. Plus quarantine is a hassle. Shipping semen is less aggravating. We simply freeze or chill it and send it out.
He pointed to yet another chart. And this?
Hannah grimaced. She was fond of her charts and graphs. Charts were predictable. They made sense. She could weigh the pros and cons of practically any permutation on paper and erase her mistakes. Unlike lifes bad choices.
Thats the stallion schedule. Regular, predictable collection encourages better production. In laymans terms, its our way of aligning supply to demand so we know where to set our stud fees. And the chart beside it is the pending shipment listthe one I need to get back to before I can give you the tour and before this sample loses viability. So please, Mr. Jacobs, go away and let me do my job.
Wyatt, he corrected.
She didnt want to be on a first-name basis with him. That implied friendshipsomething they would never have. But he was the boss and that meant she had to mind her manners.
Wyatt. Sutherland Farm bloodstock has been producing champion jumping and dressage stock for years. Let me show you to the visitors lounge in the office building. You can have a cup of coffee and look through the catalogue of our studs, mares and foals until I finish here.
His dark gaze lingered on hers until an odd sensation stirred in the pit of her stomach and her toes curled in her boots. I can find the lounge.
The moment he left the room tension drained from her shoulders, torso and legs as if leaking through her soles. She sagged against the work table, bowing her head and taking a moment to collect her composure.
Damn the man. How was she going to work with him when she couldnt even stand to be in the same room with him? He made her uncomfortable with his long, intense examinations and he was clearly searching for a reasonany reasonto fire her.
Shed barely gotten back into the groove when the door opened again. She snapped upright. Her stomach sank as Wyatt strolled in carrying one of the farms many photo albums and ending her short-lived reprieve. He parked himself on the stool directly across the table from her microscope.
No. I thought you were going to let me work.
Im not stopping you. The sooner you finish, the sooner we can get on with business. He directed his attention to the book in front of him.
Irritation sputtered through her. If he didnt quit distracting her, hed never get his tour, and he acted as if the delay was her fault.
Determined to ignore him, she gritted her teeth and returned to the job at hand. Every time she looked up from the microscope her gaze slammed straight into his, and each time she felt those dark eyes on her or his body shifted her pulse skipped.
She wanted him gone. From her lab. From her farm. From her life. Daddy, what have you done?
Forcing herself to concentrate, she powered through her work with sheer determination. When she finally sealed the last tube in the shipping package, relief coursed through her. Dread trotted close behind. Finishing meant shed have to spend time alone with her new boss.
Resigned to the torture, she sighed. Where do you want to start?
He closed the portfolio and slowly rose, unfolding one smooth muscle after the other. As much as she hated to admit it, Wyatt Jacobs had great conformation and grace in motion, like one of Sutherlands prized dressage champions. Anywhere.
She swallowed her impatience. She wanted to make this as quick and painless as possible. He wasnt helping. Narrow that down. We have two thousand acres. Which parts of the property have you not seen?
Except for the house, this barn and the office building, I havent seen any of the farm.
Her mouth dropped open. You spent millions of dollars without seeing what you were getting for your money?
I had pictures, topography maps and the video package the real estate appraiser prepared. Sutherland Farm suits my needs.
She remembered the videographers visit several months ago. Her father had told her the film would be used for promotional purposes and shed had no reason not to believe him because they often had photographers on the premises. That meant not only had her father lied, but hed been scheming to tear her world apart for months. That hurt.
But the past was over. She had to deal with the present, and the present included the testosterone-packed problem in front of her.
And what exactly are your needs? She winced when she heard the double entendre of her words.
As if a door slammed shut, Wyatts face instantly turned inscrutable. To own a horse farm. What else?
Wyatt Jacobs was lying through his perfect white teeth. Hannah would swear to it. But she couldnt prove it. And even if she could, what could she do about it? Right now she was nothing but a puppet. And he held her strings.
Hannah didnt believe him, and frankly, Wyatt didnt care. He wasnt here to make friends. In fact, it would suit him better if she got ticked off and quit her job.
Playing chaperone to a spoiled princess had never been part of his plan. Hed bought the farm for Sam and had intended spending as little time here as possible. But Hannah would require more supervision than his planned sporadic visits.
The door to the lab burst open, shattering the standoff between him and the bothersome brunette. A lanky redheaded guy rushed in. Doc Wills got another one.
Hannahs body language changed instantly from resentful and reluctant to alert and attentive. Wyatt found the switch quite intriguing. She didnt snap at the new guy for keeping the door open, dripping on the floor or tracking in mud. Instead, she wiggled her fingers in a give-me-more gesture.
He got a call to euthanize, but he decided to give you a look first. Hes down at the barn.
Those big blue eyes rounded. Hes here instead of calling for a consult?
Yep. Its that critical. He hightailed it off the property as soon as the authorities gave him the okay. He says this one will be a real test of your skills.
Hes assuming Ill say yes.
The redhead chuckled. Hannah, you never say no.
Wyatt tried to make sense of their conversation and couldnt, but he seriously doubted the twentysomething guy meant the words in a sexual contextwhich was exactly where Wyatts brain headed when he heard a woman couldnt say no.
He shut down that mental detour and cursed his traitorous libido. Hannah Sutherland might have a rockin body and a damned sexy pout, but there would be nothing remotely intimate between him and his temporary employee.
Im Wyatt Jacobs. And you are? His question brought both sets of eyes in his direction.
Hannah grimaced. Im sorry. Jeb Jones, our veterinary assistant. Wyatt is the new owner.
Wyatt shook Jebs hand. Who is Doc Will?
Hannah ripped off her lab coat and hung it on the hook by the door. Will is one of our county veterinarians. Your tour will have to wait.
Are you willing to risk the consequences of refusing my request? He didnt need to elaborate that shed be fired, but her quick gasp told him she received his unspoken message loud and clear.
Her defiant gaze drilled him. You didnt request, Mr. Jacobs. You ordered. And Im not refusing. Im postponing your tour until after Ive handled this emergency.
Her exasperation came across loud and clear despite the pretty-please smile punctuating her sentence. No doubt that smile worked on most men. Not him.
Lets go, Jeb. Hannah rushed from the lab.
The kid hesitated, as if trying to decide who was in charge, but then he mistakenly fell in behind his cohort. Taken aback by Hannahs insubordination and the kids loyalty, Wyatt rocked on his heels. Then he reconsidered. This wasnt the case of a woman standing up for her convictions. Hannah was a spoiled daddys girl who believed the rules didnt apply to her. Hed teach her and her flunky differently.
He followed the pair, intent on firing Hannah, giving her follower a warning and informing the veterinarian that Sutherland Farm was no longer a dumping ground for unwanted animals of any kind. Hannah might not be able to say no, but Wyatt had no such problem.
Ahead of him Hannah and Jeb raced down the driveway heedless of the rain. They veered off the paved surface and onto a gravel track leading to a building set behind a copse of trees several hundred yards from the main barn. Wyatt climbed into his Mercedes and drove the distance rather than get soaked.
Once he pulled off the asphalt, the uneven ground tested his cars suspension. Considering the pristine condition of the rest of the property, the neglect surprised him. He made a mental note to speak to the manager about ordering a load of gravel to fill the potholes.
A pickup truck with a horse trailer attached had backed through the barns open doors. He parked beside it and surveyed the stone building through the rain streaming down his windshield. The smaller barn had the same architecturally attractive design as the other barns, but the structure, like the driveway hadnt been as well-maintained as the rest of the farm. Odd.
He climbed from his car, then squeezed between the trailer and doorjamb. While the outside of the building lacked sparkle, the interior was as spotless as a barn could be. The combined scents of fresh shavings, hay and oats ambushed him with memories of happier times with Sam.
The trailers rear ramp had been lowered into the center hallway. Inside the metal enclosure a horse danced restlessly in the right compartment, its feet thumping hollowly on the rubberized mat covering the steel floor.
Hannah occupied the left half of the trailer, a rib-high divider separating her from the agitated creature. She stroked the animals withers and back, and spoke calmly. Its okay, girl. You have nothing to fear. Were going to take good care of you.
Her quiet, soothing tone contrasted with the impatient one shed used with him each time hed asked a question this morning.
The horse responded with a panicked sound that raised the fine hairs on Wyatts body. It had been almost fifteen years since hed been around horses, but even he recognized the animals terror.
Firing Hannah would have to wait until she wasnt in physical danger. Distraction in the workplace was an invitation to disaster. Get out of there.
In a minute, she replied without raising her voice. Okay boys, lets ease her out and see what we have.
Youre not gonna like it, an older gentleman wearing muddy jeans and a battered field jacket said as he came from behind the trailer and clapped Wyatt on the shoulder. Best not to get behind this one, son.
Wyatt flashed back to his teens. Hed heard the same warning from Sam too many times to count when Sam had been at the top of his game and lucid all the time and not just intermittently.
Hannah scowled at Wyatt across the distance. Ill call you when Im done.
Im not leaving.
If you stay, youll end up getting in the way or getting hurt.
I worked on a thoroughbred farm from the time I was fourteen until I went to college. But dont unload that horse. It needs to go back to wherever it came from.
Her expression turned belligerent. Thats not an optiona fact the police will confirm if you pick up the phone and ask for Officer
Harris, the veterinarian supplied when Hannah arched an eyebrow.
Her continued defiance rasped against Wyatts last nerve. I dont want that animal on this property.
Hannah descended the ramp and didnt stop until they were toe-to-toe, chest to chestso close he could taste the mint on her breath and feel the heat steaming from her rain-dampened clothing.
He fought to keep his attention from the way her white polo shirt had turned almost transparent. Fought and failed. The wet fabric clung to her hard-nippled breasts and outlined her thin white bra. His hormones reacted the way a healthy mans would and, try as he might, he could not control the sudden increase in his pulse rate.
Mr. Jacobs, Wyatt, if you feel the same way after Ive examined her, well discuss other arrangements. But for now, please step aside, and let me do my job.
I thought you were the breeding specialist.
I only work a half day on Saturdays. In my off hours I wear a different hat.
Have you forgotten who pays your salary?
Youre not likely to let that happen. Give me an hour to examine the mare and see what were dealing with. This could be a matter of life and death. Im not ready to take a life without just cause. Are you?
Are you always so melodramatic?
Hardly ever, she answered deadpan.
Her determination impressed him. Make it quick.
Thank you. She returned to the trailer, apparently undaunted by the agitated creatures dancing.
Under her direction the trio coaxed the horse down the ramp in fits and spurts. The mares hesitant steps alternated with nervous hops and skips, then in a sudden backward lunge the horse launched from the trailer kicking up a spray of shavings. Once the dust settled the wild-eyed animal quivered in the hall, its terror-widened eyes taking in the scene.
Then Wyatt saw what the shadowy trailer had concealed. Open sores and scars crisscrossed the emaciated back, haunches and muzzle. Bloody rings circled the mares back legs just above the hooves.
Shed been abused. His gut muscles seized and rage blazed within him. Who did this?
The vet shook his head without taking his eyes from the animal. Mean SOB who owned her. I hope the cops give him a taste of his own medicine. A billy club upside his head would be a nice touch.
Hannah handed the lead rope to Jeb then eased around the horse without ever lifting her palm from the animals dull, scarred hide. Wyatt recognized the trick as one Sam had employed. By never losing contact, the horse always knew where you were and wouldnt be startled.
You know animal abusers get a slap on the wrist at best, Will. Her frustration came through loud and clear even though she kept her tone low and even. She doesnt look good.
Nope. Not much to work with, the vet replied. She wouldnt have lasted another week in that hellhole.
Wyatt focused on the deep gouges and bloody fetlocks. Now that the fight had drained out of the mare her head hung low as if she were resigned to whatever came next and fighting took more energy than she possessed. Shed probably been a beauty once, but now she was nothing more than a broken shell. She looked ready to collapse. Her spirit seemed broken, her usefulness in doubt.
Like Sam.
The parallel was so strong it blindsided Wyatt. He hated to see anything or anyone turned into a victim trapped in a body that could no longer function or fight back. He turned to the vet whod brought the animal. You should have put her down.
Maybe. Thats Hannahs call now.
Why prolong her misery? Ending her suffering would be more humane.
Hannah bristled, agitating the mare into a side step. Just because the owner is worthless doesnt mean the animal is. Every life has value, including hers. Her teeth indicate shes less than ten years old. There could be a lot of good years in her yet.
Shes debilitated, terrified and in pain, Wyatt countered, his fists curling in frustration.
If anyone can pull her through, Hannah can, the vet said.
A muscle jumped in Wyatts jaw. The horse had been through hell, and someone had to find the compassion and make the executive decision to end her suffering. That someone was him, apparently.
Shes probably disease-ridden and could infect the other horses. And after being abused this severely, her trust in man has likely been irrevocably broken.
Hannah planted herself between Wyatt and the mare. She didnt look like a spoiled daddys girl now. She resembled a mama grizzly passionately defending her cub. You cant write her off without giving her a chance.
Her stormy gaze hit Wyatt with a fireball of pain, anger and frustration, the same emotions rumbling through him. The fight in her eyes would cause a lesser man to back down.
Giving horses second chances is what I do, Wyatt. And if youd done your research on the farm before you tossed around your money, you would realize its what you do now, too.
Wyatt stiffened as the barb hit home. He couldnt argue with facts. Hed delegated his research. The agents report hadnt included anything about Sutherland Farm being a dumping ground for damaged animals, or Hannah Sutherland, who was going to make damned sure he paid for delegating.
That right rear leg could be broken.
Hannah didnt even glance at it. Its cut deep from the hobbles. It looks like the brute bound her back legs so she couldnt defend herself when he beat her. But from the way shes bearing weight on it, its most likely superficial. Ill run X-rays to confirm.
You mean youll run up expenses on a lost cause.
She glared at him. This isnt about money. Find Your Center saves lives. It doesnt destroy them unnecessarily.
What in the hell is Find Your Center?
Irritation darkened her eyes to storm cloud gray and tightened the tendons running the length of her neck as she stuck out her chin, making the diamonds in her ears sparkle in the barns overhead lighting. If shed been a guy, she probably would have punched him.
Illustrating once again, Mr. Jacobs, you should have done your homework before your underhanded purchase.
There was nothing devious about my purchasing this farm. It was for sale. I bought it.
She visibly reined in her temper, taking a deep breath then relaxing her tense muscles. Sutherland Farm specializes in birth and rebirth.
A bird swooped through the open barn door. The horse spooked and jumped sideways, its haunches knocking into Hannah. She stumbled. Wyatt instinctively sprang forward to catch her. His muscles bunched as he banded his arms around her and braced his thighs to keep them both from going down under the ragged, dancing hooves.
Her feet tangled with his as she scrambled for traction and shifted against him in ways that made him excruciatingly aware of the surprising firmness and strength beneath her curves.
Are you all right? he asked through a knotted jaw.
Her wary gaze locked with his. Her cheeks flushed and her lips parted. His pulse spiked and heat flooded him, proving he shared something he wanted no part of with the pampered princess.
Chemistry.
Im fine. Thank you. Release me. Please. She planted her palms on his chest and pushed, broke his hold and backed away. Keeping an equally watchful eye on him, she circled to the opposite side of the horse.
Im sorry, Hannah, Jeb said. I have her now.
Its okay, Jeb. My mistake, she offered. I know better than to turn my back on an unfamiliar animal.
She flashed a brief look at Wyatt as if he were the animal in question, then she bent to reexamine the mares fetlock the way shed done everything this morningwith a methodical thoroughness and attention to detail that had frustrated him in the lab because hed suspected her of deliberately stalling as she checked and rechecked each sample and then meticulously packaged and charted each vial. Slow and steady was very likely her modus operandi and not just a passive-aggressive ploy to get under his skin.
She finally stepped away from the mare and, ignoring Wyatt, approached the vet, whod been watching Wyatt as much as he had the horse. Ill keep her.
She could jeopardize the safety of the other horses, Wyatt objected.
Shell be quarantined until the test results come back.
The vet nodded. Thanks, Hannah. Ill take care of the legalities. Can you send me the pictures documenting the abuse ASAP? I took some video with my cell phone and shot that off to the authorities. But detailed still shots will help our case.
Ill get photos before and after I clean and treat her wounds, and Ill email those and the lab results to you as soon as Im done.
Wyatt didnt like the way this was playing out. The mares suffering should end. Put her down. Ill cover the cost.
Hannah gripped Wyatts forearm. Her touch burned through his sleeve like tongues of fire. Heat licked up his limb and settled in his torso.
If you dont care about the mare, let me put it another way. To stand any chance of making the bastard who did this pay for his heinous crimes and to keep him from hurting another animal, well need documentation. Not only was this mare beaten and malnourished, she was obviously living in filth. The judge has to see what a sadist her owner is or the jerk might be allowed to own and torture other animals. No creature deserves to live or die in those conditions. Please, Wyatt, let me do this for her.
When she put it like that how could he refuse? Reports of abuse and neglect had been the top reasons hed refused to put Sam in a facility. The mare, like Sam, deserved to be treated with dignity.
Her movements slow and deliberate, Hannah approached the mare and smoothed a hand down the white blaze. The horse shied away, tossing her head and almost knocking Hannah over, but the stupid woman wouldnt quit. She kept sweet-talking and caressing until the horse tolerated her touch.
Look at that face. She deserves a second chance, dont you, girl? Hannahs eyes, soft and wide, beseeched him. Give me two weeks. Unless she tests positive for something I cant cure, Ill prove to you, and to her, that she deserves a better life. When Im done shell be healthier so someone else might be willing to foster her. Worst-case scenario, her final days will be good ones. Shell be warm and clean and well-fed.
Wyatt couldnt care less about Hannahs bedroom-soft purr or the horses face. He didnt believe for one minute this spoiled rich girl had what it took to bring the mare back from near-death, but her point about final days got to him. Thats why hed bought the farm for Sam.
Two weeks. You pay for the costs, and no heroic measures.
Relief softened Hannahs expression. Wait and see the miracles a little TLC can create.
I dont believe in miracles.
She shrugged. Your loss. They happen every day.
Thats Pollyanna garbage.
Beats pessimism.
The vets pager buzzed. He pulled it from his pocket and frowned at the message. Hannah, darling, I have a colic call on the other side of the county. I have to go. Can you manage without me?
Jeb and I can handle her.
Hannah flicked her fingers at Wyatt in a dismissive gesture. You can go, too. Im going to be busy here for a while. Ill call you when Im done, and if theres still enough daylight left, youll get your tour. If not, Ill make time tomorrow.
The liability of her getting hurt on the job outweighed his disgust with the situation, and he couldnt think of a better way to keep an eye on her than to help. Im not leaving. Youll be shorthanded without Doc.
Hannah frowned. Her mouth opened, then closed as if shed considered arguing but had changed her mind. If you insist on staying, then go into the office and get my camera out of my desk drawer. You can take the before photographs while I get my suture kit. But stay out of my way.
Her bossy tone reminded him that she was probably used to men jumping at her command. Shed learn quickly that he had no intention of being one of her minions.
Four
Hannah could barely concentrate on cleansing the mares wounds. She wished she could think of a way to get rid of her new bossone that didnt include angering him and making him renege on their bargain.
Her collision with Wyatt earlier had left her more than a little mystified. His touch had filled her with some weird, almost kinetic energy that she couldnt identify and didnt like. And since then it was almost as if shed grown antennae that stayed tuned into the Wyatt channel. The constant awareness of him was exhausting. She wanted it and him gone.
His hawkeyed presence made her uncomfortablesomething the sensitive mare picked up on and displayed with each nervous swish of her tail. Add in that he had removed his sweater ten minutes ago, revealing a newsworthy set of broad shoulders in his snug white T-shirt, and Hannah was practically salivating over a pair of deliciously defined pectorals.
Pitiful, Hannah. Just pitiful.
She glanced up and her gaze slammed into Wyatts dark brown one over the mares withers. Her pulse bucked.
When will Jeb return? he asked in that rumbly, make-her-insides-quiver voice of his.
Itll take him a while to run all the tests. Well probably finish before he does.
Does the staff always dump the dirty work on you?
She couldnt tell if his question arose from genuine curiosity or from the quest for information he could use against her coworkers. She would have to guard every word she said.
They know I like cleanup detail. It gives me a chance to assess the damage and get to know the horse. But for what its worth, a number of the employees volunteer their free time to FYC like Jeb is today. Weekends are hectic for most of us. Our trainers are away at horse shows, and the staff left behind is tied up with current or prospective clients.
Despite the crowded farm, this barn was empty except for the two of themsomething her crazy hormones couldnt seem to ignore.
As much as she disliked the arrogant jerk she needed his cooperation and financial support to keep FYC going. If Wyatt fired her, who would care for her horses? They werent ready for adoption yet and had little monetary value in their current conditions. She had to take every opportunity to sell the concept of Find Your Center to Wyatt and not only make him a believer, but a willing sponsor.
Making nice wouldnt kill heror so Nellie always claimed. Afraid shed choke on the necessary words, Hannah swallowed and forced a smile. I appreciate your help and the extra set of hands today. Youll see that its time well spent.
Doubtful. He capped the antibiotic salve, drawing her attention to his handsas if she hadnt been fixated on them already. He had good hands. Firm. Strong. Gentle when necessary.
The kind of hands a woman wanted in a lover.
Dont go there.
But she couldnt help it. She would never have anticipated tenderness and patience from the arrogant oaf. You were good with the mare. I expected squeamishness from a guy wearing cashmere and Gucci, but you applied that slimy salve to her wounds with a deft touch and no gagging.
His appraisal turned suspicious, as if he suspected an ulterior motive behind her compliment. I have some experience.
So youve said, but youve left out the details.
He ignored her invitation to fill in the blanks. She smothered a sigh. There was only one way to find out what she wanted to knowby getting to know the boss better. Not something she relished, but it was a tactic shed learned from her more competitive cousin. Megan always found out what motivated her adversaries, then used it against them to trounce them in the show ring.
Tell me about your years on the thoroughbred farm, Hannah prompted.
Wyatt wiped his hands, slowly and deliberately on a rag, then stepped back to check his handiwork. Not much to tell. My mother married the stable owner when I was fourteen. He gave me odd jobs to keep me out of trouble until I went to college.
She studied his tightly controlled hair and expression and his traditional attire. You dont look like the type to find trouble.
His lips flattened. Are we done here?
You avoided answering.
He gave her a level look. You didnt ask a question, and my personal life is none of your business.
She tried to hide her frustration, but she wasnt admitting defeat so easily. Were finished for now. We have pictures of her wounds and details on the severity of infection. Ill put her in the quarantine stall and let her rest. She should be exhausted from the travel and all this first aid. Once Jeb has the test results, there will likely be more work to do.
She dropped the irrigation syringe into the bucket, peeled off her gloves, set the pail aside and hitched a lead line to the halter. The moment she released her patient from the cross ties the mare tossed her head, almost dislocating Hannahs shoulder.
Shes going to hurt you.
And let me guess, youre more worried about the workers compensation claim than me. Oops. Shut up, Hannah.
Triple Crown Distillery prides itself on running a safe operation. I will expect Sutherland Farm to do the same.
We do, but this isnt a manufacturing plant. We work with live animals that have personalities instead of stationary vats and casks. The mare doesnt know whether were friends or foes, and after what weve just put her through she probably thinks were every bit as bad as her owner. Dont hold her skittishness against her. Shell reveal her true nature as she gets to know us. She stroked the mares long neck. Lets go to your new home, girl.
Wyatt blocked her path with a wall of solid muscle and his upper arm bumped Hannahs, splattering her with warmth. Ill take the lead. Ill be able to control her better.
Thats a chauvinist statement if I ever heard one.
Im stronger and I outweigh you.
She surrendered the line. Any bonding he might do with the horse would work in her favor. She goes in the last stall on the right.
Despite the hour theyd spent working as a team, she still knew next to nothing about her new boss. Intent on finding out as much as she could, she kept pace beside him as they traversed the center aisle. Your parents are divorced?
Yes.
Father still part of the picture?
No.
Did you enjoy working at the stable?
Parts of it.
Did you like your stepfather?
Yes.
Still keep in touch?
Yes.
Not exactly a conversationalist, are you, Jacobs? She winced as soon as the words left her mouth.
Dont bite the hand that feeds you, Hannah
.
.
, (https://www.litres.ru/emilie-rose/her-tycoon-to-tame/) .
Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, , , , PayPal, WebMoney, ., QIWI , .
Emilie Rose
Greedy for a taste of her, Wyatt stroked his tongue across the lush, moist curve of Hannahs bottom lip.
Her flavour hit him with the punch of a straight shot of single malt whiskey, making his head spin and his body temperature spike.
Why her? Why did this woman who stood for everything he despised get to him? Hadnt he been burned by her type often enough to learn his lesson? Before he could make sense of her strange magnetism or get his fill, she jerked back, eyes wide and wary, and pressed her fingers over her mouth.
You cant do that. Youre my boss.
Reality slammed into him like an oncoming train. Stupid move, Jacobs. Youre right. A personal involvement would be unwise.
But even as he spoke the words he registered her heavy-lidded eyes, flushed cheeks and erect nipplessure signs that her hormones were pumping as rampantly as his. And as impractical and ill-advised as it might be, he wanted her.
Dear Reader,
Horses were a huge part of my childhood, and I miss them terribly. If I ever win the lottery, you can be assured my first purchase will be a horse farm somewhere in central North Carolina.
Fortunately, Hannah and Wyatts story gave me an opportunity to revisit one of my first loves, although my horse experiences were never anything as lavish as Grand Prix show jumping! There is nothing more breathtaking than watching a spindly legged foal take its first steps or taking those initial tentative steps into a new love.
I hope you enjoy the often unsteady steps of Wyatt and Hannahs journey. Let me know what you think. You can reach me online at my website, www.emilierose.com.
Happy reading!
Emilie Rose
About the Author
Bestselling Desire
author and RITA
Award finalist EMILIE ROSE lives in her native North Carolina with her four sons and two adopted mutts. Writing is her third (and hopefully her last) career. Shes managed a medical office and run a home day care, neither of which offers half as much satisfaction as plotting happy endings. Her hobbies include gardening and cooking (especially cheesecake). Shes a rabid country music fan because she can find an entire book in almost any song. She is currently working her way through her own bucket list, which includes learning to ride a Harley. Visit her website at www.emilierose.com or email EmilieRoseC@aol.com. Letters can be mailed to PO Box 20145, Raleigh, NC 27619, USA.
Her Tycoon
to Tame
Emilie Rose
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
To the Man upstairs for giving me more
time with my mom.
Each day is a blessing.
One
Hannah Sutherland pressed the pedal of the golf cart to the floorboard, racing the battery-powered machine up the long curving driveway toward the main house.
Guest. My office. N.O.W.
That had been her fathers text, and as irritable as hed been lately, she didnt dare keep him waiting. But who could be so important that she had to drop everything and hurry to the house?
When she reached the stairs leading to the back patio, she slammed on the brake, leaped from the vehicle and hustled into the house, straightening her hair and adjusting her hastily changed clothing as she crossed the black-and-white marbled foyer. The sound of her boots echoed off the vaulted ceiling.
At the sight of the closed office door, her step hitched. She hadnt seen that door closed since the day her mother had died. Apprehension climbed her spine like a spider.
She shook off her uneasiness and knocked on the glossy surface. A moment later, the panel opened revealing Al Brinkley, the familys lawyer. Hed been her fathers friend as well as his legal council for as long as Hannah could remember.
Good to see you, Mr. Brinkley.
Brinkleys smile seemed forced. Hello, Hannah. I swear you look more like your mother every day.
So Ive been told. Too bad looks were all shed inherited from her mom. Hannahs life would have been so much easier if shed picked up a few more traits.
His expression sobered, resurrecting Hannahs concern. Come in.
Her father stood behind his desk, his face tense, a highball glass in his hand. It was a little early for cocktails.
Movement by the French doors overlooking the east paddock interrupted the thought. Tall and lean, the other occupant of the study smoothly pivoted in her direction.
His glossy brownish-black hair had been clipped short, but not short enough to hide a tendency to curl that did nothing to soften his uncompromisingly hard jaw and a square chin.
And while his features combined to form a tough but attractive face, nothing would soften those cool, distrusting eyes, and no amount of expensive tailoring could conceal his broad shoulders and firm, muscled body. He had the lean, mean, fighting machine look often displayed on military recruiting posters and an alert and dangerous air. She estimated his age as mid-thirties, but it was hard to say. He had old eyes.
Come in, Hannah. The odd tension in her fathers tone made her wary. Brink, close the door.
The lawyer did as he was bid, sealing Hannah into the wainscoted room with the three men and a tense atmosphere. Private discussions were not the norm in the house. Nellie, who served as housekeeper, house manager and surrogate mother, was the only one who might overhear, and she was family in every way but blood. So why the secrecy?
Wyatt, this is my daughter, Hannah. Shes the veterinarian overseeing Sutherland Farms breeding operation. Hannah, Wyatt Jacobs.
Jacobss searing scrutiny strangely repelled and yet attracted her. Duty compelled her into motion. She crossed the Aubusson carpet. Who was he and what kind of closed-door business could he have with the stable?
Judging by his expensive clothing and the platinum watch on his wrist, he had money, but then all of their visitors did. Grand Prix show jumping wasnt for paupers or even the middle class. Their clients ranged from nouveau riche to established royalty, spoiled brats to dedicated, die-hard horsemen. Where did Wyatt Jacobs fit in?
Shed bet he looked good on a horse with that erect, confident carriage. His eyes were the color of roasted coffee beans, the pupils barely discernible with the sun streaming through the French doors at his back.
Welcome to Sutherland Farm, Mr. Jacobs, she recited by rote and extended her hand.
His long fingers closed around hers, and his firm, warm grip combined with the impact of that hard, dark gaze made it difficult to breathe. She might as well have had a girth cinched around her chest considering the sudden pressure on her lungs.
Dr. Sutherland. His deep, slightly raspy and seriously sexy voice would be perfect for radio.
He held her hand, extending the contact and making her wish for a split second that shed taken the time to freshen her makeup, unbraid and brush her hair and splash on some perfume to mask the scent of stables when shed quickly changed from her soiled work clothes in her office. But shed been rushing and done only the absolutely necessary repairs.
Stupid girl. Hes a client. And youre not looking for romance, remember?
She tugged her hand and after a brief resistance he released her. She pressed her prickling palm to her thigh. Shed broken her engagement fifteen months ago and in that time she hadnt thought about sex even once. Until now. Wyatt Jacobs made her tingle in places that had been dormant for a long time.
Her father offered her a highball glass of amber liquid. Dad, you know I cant drink when Im working. I still have to deal with Commander this morning.
Her frustration with the stallion shed left in the stables resurfaced. Commander wanted to kill everyoneespecially the vet in charge of collecting his semen. In the arena hed been a phenomenal competitor, but in the barn he was a bloodthirsty beast. His bloodline and list of championships meant she couldnt ignore him. His ejaculate was liquid gold. But she, her team and the stubborn stud had needed a cool-down period after an unproductive hour. Her fathers interruption had actually come at a good time.
Her father set the glass on his desk beside her as if he expected her to change her mind, reactivating the warning itch on her nape. Hannah brushed aside her misgivings and returned her focus to their guest. Jacobs watched her with an unwavering, laser-like intensity that stirred a strange, volatile reaction inside her, and try as she might she couldnt look away.
Shed met movie stars, congressmen and royalty with less charisma. For pitys sake shed dated and even kissed a few of them with no effect. So why did Jacobs rattle her cage?
Wait a minute. Was that anger lurking in his eyes?
There was only one way to find out.
What brings you to our stables, Mr. Jacobs?
Luthor, would you care to explain why Im here? Jacobs deferred. Funny, she would have sworn on her mothers earrings that he wasnt the type to defer anything and doing so now appeared to irritate him.
When the silence stretched, she pried her eyes from Jacobss handsome face and discovered her usually unflappable father looking defensive and uncomfortable, his pale features settotally unlike his usual calm demeanor. He drained his glass in one gulp and set the tumbler on the desk with a thump.
Her anxiety level spiked. Daddy, whats going on?
Ive sold the farm, Hannah, her father stated baldly.
She blinked. Her father had never possessed a sense of humor. Odd time for him to find one. But the idea was too ludicrous to be anything but a bad joke. Really?
He glanced at Brinkleys stoic expression, then back. I have places to go and things to seenone of which I can do if Im tied to this business every single day of the year.
She searched her fathers resolute face. He wasnt joking. The floor beneath her feet seemed to shift. She clutched the edge of the desk for balance. Her knuckles bumped the cold highball glass, but the chill of the crystal couldnt compare to the ice spreading through her veins.
She could feel her mouth opening and closing, but couldnt force out a sound. She shuddered in a breath then stuttered it out again while struggling to gather her shattered thoughts.
You couldnt have sold the farm. You wouldnt have. You live for the stables. As far as she knew he had no other interests, no hobbies. Nothing except horses, winning and Sutherland Farm. He didnt even have friends outside the horse biz.
Not anymore.
Something had to be wrong. Terribly wrong. Fear splintered through her and cold sweat beaded her lip.
Her neck felt like a rusty hinge as she forced her head to turn to Jacobs. Would you excuse us a moment, Mr. Jacobs?
Their visitor didnt budge. He studied heras if trying to gauge and anticipate her reaction.
Please. She hated the desperate edge of her voice. It verged on begging. And she never begged.
After a moment he nodded, crossed the room in purposeful strides and stepped through the doors out onto the veranda. A fresh-cut grass-scented breeze drifted in the open door, but the familiar aroma failed to do its usual job of soothing her.
Would you like for me to go? Brinkley asked.
Her father held up a hand. Stay, Brink. Hannah might have questions only you can answer.
Daddy, whats wrong? Are you ill?
He sighed. No, Hannah. Im not sick.
Then how could you do this? You promised Mom youd keep the farm forever.
The lines in her fathers face seemed to deepen. That was nineteen years ago, Hannah, and she was dying. I said what I had to say to let her pass peacefully.
But what about me? I promised Mom, too, and I meant it. Im supposed to take over Sutherland Farm. Im supposed to keep Grandma and Papas property in the family and pass it on to my children.
Children you dont have.
Well, no, not yet, but one day She paused as an idea pierced her like a nail. This is because I didnt marry Robert, isnt it?
Disapproval clamped her fathers mouth into a tight line. He was perfect for you, and yet you refused to settle down.
No, Dad, he was perfect for you. Robert was the son you always wished youd had. Instead, you got me.
Robert knew how to run a stable.
So do I.
Hannah, you dont ride. You dont compete. Your heart is not in this business, and you dont have the drive to keep Sutherland Farm at the top of the Grand Prix community. Instead you waste your time and money on animals that ought to be euthanized.
No matter how many times she heard it, the old attacks still chafed. She stuffed down her emotional response and focused on the facts. Mom believed in rescuing horses, too, and my horse rehabilitation program is a success. If youd take the time to look at the statistics and read the success stories
Your operation runs in the red every quarter. Youre careless with money because youve never had to fight and scratch for a living.
I work.
He grunted in disgust. A few hours a day.
My job isnt the eight-hour-a-day variety.
When your mother and I assumed responsibility for my parents old tobacco farm, this place was losing money hand over fist. We built Sutherland Farm into the showplace it is today by fighting and clawing our way up the ranks. Your mother had ambition. You do not. Robert might have managed to talk some sense into you and divert your attention to more suitable hobbies. But that didnt work. Did it?
Shed ended her engagement the day shed realized Robert had loved the horses and farm more than he had her. Hed been willing to trample people in pursuit of the almighty dollar. But her father would never listen to that. The men were like peas in a podidentical in their drive for success despite the costs.
Robert had been her fathers ideal of the perfect son-in-lawaggressive in business and a star in the show ringbut ultimately, he wasnt her ideal husband or life partner. She would have come lagging in a distant third in his heart at best. But she could hardly tell her father the only time Robert was passionate was in the riding ring.
Robert wasnt right for me.
Youre twenty-nine, Hannah, and no man has ever held your attention for more than a few months. Youre too picky.
Daddy, Im sorry I didnt inherit mothers grace and ability on horseback or your competitive streak. But this farm was her dream. And now its mine. I can run it. I may not know how to ride a champion, but I know how to breed one. I have what it takes.
No, Hannah, you dont. Youve had a few successes with your stock, but you lack fire and ambition and you have absolutely no head for business. Youre never going to be ready to take the reins of Sutherland Farm.
She flinched. His cruel words only confirmed what she knew hed been thinking for years, but they still stung like the whip of a crop. Thats not true.
Im doing you no favors by continuing to coddle you. He paused and glanced at his friend. I wont always be here to support you, Hannah. Its time you learned to take care of yourself.
What do you mean?
Im cutting you off.
Shock followed by a chaser of panic sent her staggering backward. What do you mean? she repeated.
I will no longer support you or your lost causes.
Why? What did I do? How will I survive?
Youll have to learn to live on your salary.
Hurt, fear and betrayal ignited like a barn fire beneath her breastbone. Couldnt we have talked about this before you made such a drastic decision?
Her father shrugged and realigned the pen beside a thick pile of papers on his desk. What good would that have done?
I would have talked you out of it. Somebody should have talked you out of it. She shot an injured and confused glance at the attorney who shrugged apologetically. This farm, this property has been in our family for generations. There are a lot of people depending on you and me and
Its too late, Hannah. Her father sighed and suddenly the starch left his spine, making him look old and tired. He refilled his drink, then sank into the leather chair.
She turned to Brinkley. Can he do this? What about my mothers share of the business?
Your grandparents put the farm in your fathers name before he married your mother. Her name was never added to the deed. You received the only inheritance youll get from her estate when you turned twenty-one.
And most of that was gone. Shed spent the money on her horses, confident in the belief that her father would continue to fund her efforts.
Then realization clicked, jolting Hannah out of her stupefaction. Wyatt Jacobs must be the one whod bought the farm right out from under her. The sneaky, conniving, inheritance-swindling bastard.
Cold eyes, cold heart, Nellie had always said.
Hannahs pulse galloped in her eardrums like stampeding hooves. If she couldnt make her father or Brinkley see sense, shed have to talk to the jerk who had usurped her and convince him to renege on the deal. Then shed figure out a way to change her fathers mind before he found another buyer.
She stalked through the patio door and spotted the interloper at a table, calmly eating from a plate of Nellies cookies and drinking a glass of milk as if he hadnt just blasted the foundation right out from under her life. She marched toward him and pulled up at his elbow.
This is my home. You cant waltz in here and steal the property. My father is having a momentary bout of senility and
Jacobs rose to tower above her, his face like granite. I didnt steal Sutherland Farm, doc. I paid more than fair market value.
He calmly lifted the cookie and took another bite. His insolence stung like a slap in the face. Then as she focused on the cookie she realized she wasnt the only one who would be blindsided by todays disastrous news. She swung to her father who had followed her onto the patio.
What about Nellie? Shes lived with us since Mom died. She has no other home, no other family. Just us. You cant turn her out to pasture. Shes too young to retire, and jobs are hard to find right now.
Wyatt has promised to continue employing Nellie.
Wyatt has promised. Right. And she trusted him about as far as she could throw all six feet plus and two hundred whatever rock-solid pounds of him. She glared at him. What about the other employees, the clients horses and the stables? Are you going to do a clean sweep?
Most new owners brought in their own teams, and she hated to think of the people shed known and loved like an extended family being scattered across the globethat was if they were able to find jobs with so many farms downsizing.
Ill maintain the status quo while I assess the property and the business.
And then what?
My decisions will depend on what I discover about the operation.
Whats to discover? You bought a world-class stable
Hannah, her father interrupted, Brink will go over the particulars of the agreement with you. All you need to know is that Wyatt has agreed to keep the current staff for a full year unless obvious incompetence leads him to decide otherwise.
Her shoulders snapped straight at the insult. Sutherland Farm doesnt employ any incompetents.
Then no one need be concerned, Jacobs said.
Desperation clawed at her throat. Daddy, please dont do this. Im sure theres a way you can undo the paperwork. Give me a chance to prove to you that I can run the farm and
Hannah, we closed the deal a week ago. Today was merely the first time Wyatt and I could meet personally to discuss the transition.
A week ago, she parroted. Her world had crashed and shed been oblivious. Head reeling and legs shaking, she tried to make sense of the upheaval to come.
Ive already purchased a townhome and the movers have been scheduled, her father added, sending another shockwave rippling through her.
Jacobs stiffened. A townhome? What about the cottage?
My cottage! Ohmigod. Where will I live?
Her fathers expression turned cagey. Hannah lives in the cottage.
Jacobss hands fisted by his sides and anger lit his eyes.
Confused by the exchange, Hannah looked from the interloper to her father. My home and my job are part of Sutherland Farm. Where will I go? Where will I live and work?
Her father sighed and turned toward the bar cart. Ill let Wyatt explain.
Luthor excluded the cottage and two acres inside the stone fence surrounding it from the deal. Youll get to keep your house. And, as your father has already explained, like any other employee youll be kept on staff as long as the quality of your work meets my standards. Jacobss voice carried about as much warmth as liquid nitrogen.
The man would be her boss.
Your standards? From his tone she gathered his standards would be impossible to meet.
Her cottage, the original Sutherland homestead, sat smack in the middle of Sutherland Farm. Shed be surrounded by enemy territory. But at least shed have a roof over her head.
She swallowed her panic and fought to clear her head. When is all this upheaval scheduled to take place?
Im taking over as CEO today and moving into this house as soon as your father has vacated.
In other words, life as shed always known it had ended.
Two
Anger licked along Wyatts nerve endings like kindling catching fire. Luthor Sutherland had deliberately deceived him.
The man had no intention of retiring to the original homestead as hed led Wyatt to believe when hed insisted the parcel be excluded from the sale, and Sutherlands daughter was one of the employees Sutherland had been so eager to protect. If Wyatt had known, he would never have signed the employee agreement Sutherland had insisted on.
But if Luthor expected Wyatt to cut his princess any slack, hed be disappointed. If Hannah couldnt carry her weight, shed be firedper the performance clause Wyatt had included.
What incensed him the most was that he knew he had no one but himself to blame for deception getting past him. Hed been neck-deep in closing an international distribution deal and because he didnt have the time, interest or knowledge in running a horse farm, hed delegated the job of finding a self-sufficient operationone that wouldnt require him to be on-siteto the best buyers agent in the business.
Sutherland Farm met all his criteria. He couldnt help wondering if there were any more surprises in addition to the leggy brunette liability yet to discover. Whatever the issues, he would find and eradicate them.
He had enough problems without having to deal with a pampered heiress who had been living out of her daddys deep pockets. The snippets of conversation hed overheard through the patio door made it clear that description fit Hannah Sutherland from her silk shirt to her polished high-heeled boots.
Hed bet his seven-figure investment portfolio that Hannah had coasted through life on her beauty and pretty-please smiles. His gut warned him shed be nothing but trouble. And his instincts about people were rarely wrong. He didnt need to see the two carats of diamonds in her ears or the watch on her wrist so pricey that a thief could pawn it to buy a car or her short but perfectly manicured nails to confirm her overindulged status.
I want every employees file before I leave today, he demanded without looking away from the smoky blue eyes shooting flames at him.
Thats confidential information, Hannah protested.
Hannah, Sutherlands lawyer interjected, as the new owner of Sutherland Farm, Mr. Jacobs has unrestricted access to employee records.
But
Wyatt nailed her with a hard look. Ill start with yours. I have a pretty good idea what Ill find. Private schools. Sororities. European vacations paid for by Sutherland Farm.
Hannah glared at him. Tension quivered through her slender, toned body. Her breasts rose and fell rapidly, and despite his aversion to spoiled women and his anger over his predicament, awareness simmered beneath his skin.
Something about her got to him. She had a subtle grace and elegance about her that both attracted him and, because of his past relationships with her type, repulsed him. Hed been burned by her kind before.
I graduated from an accredited veterinary school, she said through barely moving lips. My credentials are valid, and since Warmbloods are a European breed, visiting the established and successful breeding farms to study their setups and evaluate their stock for potential matches is a necessary part of my job.
Im sure you have references from your previous employers to prove your worth as an employee.
Her chin jerked up a notch and she managed to look down her straight nose at him in the way only wealthy women coulda lesson hed had driven into him like a railroad spike when hed been seventeen and green and working at his stepfathers stable. Back then he hadnt been smart enough to know rich daddys darlings didnt marry boys who cleaned stalls for their stepfathers stables no matter how intimate the relationship might have become.
I have worked here since graduatingalmost five years. Im good at what I do.
Ill be the judge of that.
She folded her arms and cocked back on one of those long legs. Tell me, Mr. Jacobs, what exactly are your credentials for determining whether or not staff members are performing well?
Hannah the attorney cautioned, but Wyatt silenced him with a look.
Im CEO of Triple Crown Distillery. I employ over six hundred. I recognize incompetents and slackers when I see them.
Anger stained her cheeks a fiery red, proving shed picked up his implication that he considered her one. As Ive already stated, the Sutherland team doesnt have any weak links. Were a cohesive unit, one of the best in the industry.
That remains to be seen. Wyatt was beginning to wish hed chosen one of the other dozen properties the real estate agent had presented. But as wise as that option now appeared, none of those farms had fit Sams descriptions and all would have required Wyatts input as a manager. Input he didnt have the time or inclination to give.
When Sam reminisced about the Kentucky thoroughbred farm hed once owned, he sounded so lucid Wyatt could almost forget his stepfather was fading away right before his eyes. Sutherland Farm resembled Sams old farm more than any of the other properties, and Sam deserved to be comfortable, happy and, most importantly, safe for however long he had left. He would be here. Wyatt would make damned sure of it.
And he had no intention of letting Hannah Sutherland prevent him from repaying the debt he owed to the man whod been a better parent to him than his own flesh and blood.
Just watch your step, doc. Your father may have indulged you, but I wont. Youll earn your keep if you want to remain employed here. Now, if youll excuse me, I have files to review and you need to get back to work.
Exhausted, Hannah plodded down the driveway toward her cottage, a hot bubble bath and a glass of wine.
One of her rescue mares kept pace beside her on the opposite side of the white board fence. Hannah found the horses undemanding company soothing. Unlike people, who were easily disappointed, horses never expected too much.
It had been a tough week. Since her world crashed shed been juggling her usual duties plus the new ones thrust unexpectedly on her. The staff had turned to her for answersanswers she didnt have.
The mood in the barns grew more oppressive, like an impending summer storm, with each day that Wyatt Jacobs failed to make an appearance. Usually affable employees were on edge and snapping at each other. Even the horses had picked up on the bad vibes and been harder to handle than usual. Hannah wished Jacobs would show up just to break the tension. Not that she wanted to see him again.
The phone on her hip vibrated. The digital display read private caller. Could be a client or, if she was lucky, a wrong number. She didnt have the energy to deal with another crisis or panicking coworker.
She hit the answer button. Hannah Sutherland.
Wyatt Jacobs. Come to my office in the house. Now.
Click.
Her feet stuck to the pavement as if shed stepped in fresh tar. She scowled at the now silent phone then she looked across the lawn toward the main house. A light glowed in her fathersWyatt Jacobssstudy.
The usurper had arrived. And hed hung up on her. The rude, inconsiderate jerk. Anger charged through her system, riding on the back of a burst of adrenaline. How dare he demand an appointment this late in the evening?
She considered calling back and telling him she was off the clock and shed see him tomorrow. But according to the clause in her new contract, which Brinkley had pointed out, she couldnt refuse the bosss summons without jeopardizing her job.
She glanced at her stained clothing. If she were truly interested in making a good impression, shed clean up first.
She wasnt.
Shed done an internet search on Jacobs and found nothing linking him to horses in any way. Why had he bought the farm?
Was he one of those new-money guys who thought owning a horse farm would be trendy and fun? If so, he wouldnt have a clue how much work, money and commitment were involved in a stable the size of Sutherland. If she had to teach him herself, hed learn, and if she smelled like sweat and horses and other unpleasant stuff, shed only be furthering his education.
As much as she hated going into the meeting at a messy disadvantage, hed have to deal with her dirt. Welcome to the horse business, Wyatt Jacobs.
Energized by resentment and determination Hannah marched across the lawn and up to the kitchen door. A sideways glance down the patio brought her hand to a halt inches shy of the knob.
An unfamiliar rectangular teak table and chairs occupied the space once graced by elegant glass-topped wrought iron furniture and classic urns overflowing with spring flowers. The sight drove home the reality that this wasnt her fathers house anymore, and she didnt have the right to casually enter through the kitchen and feast on Nellies delicious cooking.
Ten yards away the patio door leading to the office opened, and Wyatt Jacobss tall, broad-shouldered frame filled the gap. His dark gaze pinned her like a thumbtack stabbing into a bulletin board.
Come in, doc. He gestured with a sharp beckoning motion of his handthe same way he would order a dog.
Her hackles rose. Everything about him made her want to snarl and growl and that surprised her. Who was this strange woman with the bad attitude who had taken over her body? It certainly wasnt her. She preferred gracious smiles, gentle persuasion and Southern charm. Kill em with kindness, Nellie had always said, and the strategy had worked for Hannah thus far.
Wyatt Jacobs brought out her witchy side. Her churning stomach warned her to handle this encounter with care. Jacobs, the one man she didnt know and didnt care to know, held her future and that of her horses and the rest of the staff in his hands. Being cooperative was imperative.
Shed be damned if shed let him know how afraid she was of losing everything.
Id rather talk out here. Even though she delivered the words with a civil smile, Hannah Sutherland bristled with visible animosity. She pointed to her dust-covered black low-heeled boots. Since I wasnt expecting your call this late in the day, Ive brought barn with me.
Her boots werent all that was dirty. He noted the smudge filling the hollow beneath one high cheekbone, then a stain on her white Sutherland Farm logo polo shirt drew his eyes to the curve of her breasts. Another dirty streak on her khaki pants ran down the inside of her lean, taut thigh. Her current garb was a far cry from the designer duds shed been wearing the day theyd met, but she still wore the pricey watch and ice-cube-size earrings.
He caught a subtle whiff of the stables on the breeze. But along with the smell of horses, wood shavings and hay another scentsomething feminine and alluring like expensive French perfumesnagged his attention. His heart inexplicably and annoyingly pumped faster.
Hed studied her rsum and bio the way he would a blueprint, searching for flaws and weaknesses, and hed found nothing to like in her privileged, worry-free upbringing. Shed apparently been given everything shed ever wanted on a silver platter.
Other than your years at college youve never lived away from dear old dad or his checkbook, have you?
Her slender frame stiffened and her smile faltered. No.
You never held a job, before waltzing into this one.
I didnt waltz in. I earned my degree. And I gained experience by volunteering at the universitys stables. I wasnt on the payroll because I didnt need the money. I didnt think it fair to take it from someone who did.
Even with, or possibly because of, Sams help, Wyatt had worked his ass off to get where he was today. Sam might have paid the tuition, but hed made Wyatt prove himself every step of the way. Hed learned the business from the ground up, and Triple Crown Distillerys distribution and profit margins had increased by sixty percent since he had taken control after Sams retirement.
But Wyatts bitterness and resentment over Hannahs worry-free life didnt stop the spurt of energy racing through his veins when Hannah glared at him.
Im off the clock, Mr. Jacobs. Was there something you needed that couldnt wait until tomorrow?
The setting sun highlighted the streaks of gold in her brown wavy hairstreaks probably applied by an overpriced hairdresser. Her blue eyes showed no mercy, no interest and no feminine softness. She didnt want him here, and her attempt at hiding her feelings failed miserably.
Meet me in the stables business office tomorrow at noon.
Why? Her eyes narrowed with suspicion.
Youre going to show me around the farm.
Her stiff shoulders snapped back, becoming even more rigid. She hit him with that hoity, looking-down-the-nose appraisal that reminded him of his first love, first heartache and first betrayal by a woman.
I cant drop everything to play tour guide for you. Sir, she tacked on at the last minute.
He wasnt used to openly antagonistic females. He would have to be an idiot not to realize his looks and money made most of her gender eager to please. But from the tension and displeasure radiating from her, he would hazard a guess that she didnt give a rats ass what he thought of her and her disheveled state. Or maybe shed dirtied up intentionally to make it look as though she worked hard. Yeah, that was probably the case. He doubted Ms. Perfect Manicure ever got her hands dirty.
Youll report at noon if you value your job.
I have a full schedule tomorrow. This is the busy season.
Why?
She blinked, revealing long, thick lashes he hadnt noticed before. Why what?
Why is this the busy season?
A pleat formed between her eyebrows. Not only do we have a lot of boarders showing up to ride on Saturdays, I shouldnt have to tell you were preparing for the breeding season.
His knowledge of horse breeding was limited. Sam had always given Wyatt more menial jobsthe kind that built character as well as muscle and calluses. Or so Sam had insisted. Noon, Dr. Sutherland.
Ill find someone else to show you around, someone who has the time.
Your father claims you know more about Sutherland Farm than any other employee. I dont want someone else. I want you. Thats not negotiable.
Of course I know the most about the farm. Ive lived here all my life, and Ive covered every inch of the property. But as much as Id love to show you all the wonderful things about Sutherland Farm, I have a production schedule to maintain.
Somethingmaybe a primitive urge to knock her off the pedestal shed put herself onmade Hannahs resistance both challenging and a turn-on.
That makes you one twisted fool, Jacobs.
A nerve at the corner of his mouth twitched as he fought to conceal his irritation with her and himself. Youre not going to make it that easy for me, are you, Hannah?
What do you mean?
Per your contract, if you fail to meet my expectations youll be fired. Make time to show me around or pick up your final paycheck.
Her lips flattened into a thin line and anger flagged her cheeks with red. You like the power of holding the contracts you made us sign over our heads, dont you? Were all here on a trial basis even though weve been successfully doing our jobs without your interference for years.
Im the boss. Your boss. Thats the way it works.
Her irritated gaze snapped up and down his Armani suit without the admiration he usually received. She heaved an aggravated breath. Ill be there, but leave the fancy duds behind unless you plan to stay in the golf cart.
She pivoted on her heel with military precision then marched off the patio, her firm, round bottom swishing with each long, angry stride. He couldnt peel his gaze away and his body reacted with unexpected and unwanted appreciation.
Oh, yeah, hed called it right. Hannah Sutherland with her expensive jewelry, highlighted hair, manicured hands and entitled attitude was going to be nothing but trouble.
Until he got rid of her.
And that couldnt happen soon enough.
Three
The door to Hannahs lab opened abruptly on Saturday morning, startling her. Wyatt stalked in as if he owned the placewhich he did, technically. But this was her domainthe only place that remained orderly and tranquil no matter what chaos reigned in other parts of her life.
Her muscles snapped taut and the hair on her nape sprang to attention. Shed never experienced such instant antagonism toward anyone before, and the strength of the emotion roiling inside her now surprised her.
You said twelve. Youre early. She tried to keep her tone polite, but judging by his scowl, she failed.
His dark eyes panned the spotless room as if inventorying each piece of equipment before returning to her and examining her as thoroughly. The rain is predicted to worsen. I want my tour now.
Rain? Hannah blinked and listened. Sure enough, rain snare-drummed on the barns metal roof. Shed been so engrossed in her tasks and her troubles that she hadnt even noticed the rat-a-tat-tat before now. Usually the sound relaxed her. But not today, thanks to the irritant in front of her.
She stood her ground and returned his appraisal. The hard line of his jaw gleamed from a recent shave and his hair looked dampeither from the weather or a recent shower if he were the type to waste a morning lying in bed. A picture of him on twisted sheets popped into her head.
Where had that come from? She kicked it away.
A black cashmere sweater stretched across his broad shoulders, the white of a T-shirt showing in the V-neck, and faded jeans clung to his hips and long, muscled thighs. Somethingmost likely aggravationquickened her pulse. It couldnt be anything else. She didnt like him or his arrogant attitude.
I still have orders to process before the courier service arrives. Come back at twelve. Please, she added. She wasnt going to let him disrupt her schedule and thereby give him grounds to fire her.
Reviewing employee performance is part of any new business venture. Ill start with yours. You work. Ill observe.
Anxiety tangled with the coil of exasperation snaking through her. She couldnt throw him out. Then at least close the door. This is a controlled environment. The room needs to remain dust-free, and the temperature as constant as possible.
Is it that important?
Considering I handle thousands of dollars worth of product every day, yes, quality control is important.
Curiosity sharpened his eyes. He strolled toward her, encroaching on her personal space, but she kept her boots planted, refusing to surrender her spot by the microscope despite an almost visceral urge to back far, far away.
What are you working on, doc?
An odd question from the man who owned everything in front of him. Everything except her, that is. Im confirming the viability of the sample before I chill and ship it.
Sample of what?
He was kidding. Right? But if so, he did so with a straight face. Hey, she could play along. Sperm. Want to take a look?
His short, thick lashes flickered, then he moved forward, calling her bluff and forcing her to yield territory to avoid contact. He bent over the microscope. Tell me what Im looking for.
Unsure whether he was testing her knowledge or simply being a pain in the rear, she scowled at the thick, dark strands covering the back of his head. Youre checking to see whether the sample has enough potency to get the job done.
He straightened. Their gazes collided unexpectedly and held. Her thoughts scattered like bowling pins. Tension crackled between them.
And the answer?
She inhaled slowly, trying to remember his question, but a trace of his colognesomething hinting of patchouli, sandalwood and cypressdistracted her. He smelled good and looked good. Too bad he was a jerk. Shed dealt with enough overinflated egos over the years to know bad attitude cancelled out any positives.
Yes, this is a fertile stud, and a good thing, too, since Commander is Sutherland Farms top moneymaker.
Determined to get back to business, she waved him out of the way and bent over the eye pieces, but his presence disturbed her. She could feel him dissecting and cataloging her every action as if he were waiting for her to make a mistake. When she adjusted the focus her hands werent as steady as theyd been before his arrival, and it annoyed her that he could rattle her so easily.
Whats the purpose of all the equipment and charts?
Another odd question from Sutherlands new owner. She lifted her head and put down the pencil shed been using to make notes. If I explain, will you go away and let me finish my job?
Im not leaving until youve given me a satisfactory tour.
Not what she wanted to hear. Are you completely ignorant of the business into which youve invested millions?
Whoops. Not nice, Hannah. What happened to killing him with kindness and not making waves?
You mean the business I own, the one that pays your salary?
He had her there. And if she wanted to continue receiving that paycheck so that she could care for her horses and put food on her table, shed better dam the resentment pouring from her mouth. I apologize. The clock is ticking and I really need to get this order ready before the sample is ruined.
Answer my question, Hannah.
The shelves are filled with the collection equipment we use. Each stud has his own Her cheeks warmed and her tongue tangled. Oh, for pitys sake. Reproduction was her job. Discussing it was routine. So why did explaining it to him make her uncomfortable? They werent discussing her personal sexual preferences.
Or his.
An image of him bare-chested, braced on his forearms above her and with passion instead of irritation tightening his features flashed in her mind. Her womb clenched. She inhaled sharply.
Girl, you have been too long without a mans attention.
She cleared her throat and, trying to ignore the unwelcome warmth seeping through her, carefully chose her words. Stallions have likes and dislikes that could interfere with or assist in production and collection. We get our most successful outcomes when the positive elements are in place, and we keep track of each studs preferences with the charts.
His eyes narrowed and for a moment the air seemed to hum with tension. Sutherland Farm has two veterinarians on staff. Your position seems redundant. Why should I continue paying your salary?
Alarm froze any lingering awareness faster than a liquid nitrogen dip. Youre asking me to justify my job?
Correct. Convince me nepotism wasnt a factor in your hiring.
She dampened her suddenly dry lips. Our staff vet oversees general animal health. I oversee breeding.
Something animals have managed without assistance or all this equipment since the beginning of time.
Breeding is Sutherland Farms bread and butter. Without the raw material, our trainers cant produce champions. We continue to make money off successful mares and studs for years, sometimes even decades, after they leave the show ring.
And why cant the staff vet oversee that?
Developing a winning bloodline is far more complicated than randomly pairing animals and hoping for a pretty foal. Its an intricate mix of genealogy, genetics, biology and veterinary science aimed at producing an animal with optimal traits and minimal deficiencies. Its a scienceone at which I happen to excel.
He didnt look impressed.
Tell me, Wyatt, exactly how much do you know about horse breeding?
My knowledge of horses is limited to thoroughbreds.
That explained a lot. And yet you bought a Warmblood farm. Thoroughbreds are bred naturally. Sutherland Farm does almost everything by artificial insemination.
Why?
There are several reasons. Our horses are too valuable to risk one of them getting injured during the natural breeding process, and artificial insemination allows us to service mares globally and not only in our barns. Its cost-effective and less stressful for the mares than being shipped to the stallions home stable. Shipping a horse overseas is expensive and often disturbs her cycle. Plus quarantine is a hassle. Shipping semen is less aggravating. We simply freeze or chill it and send it out.
He pointed to yet another chart. And this?
Hannah grimaced. She was fond of her charts and graphs. Charts were predictable. They made sense. She could weigh the pros and cons of practically any permutation on paper and erase her mistakes. Unlike lifes bad choices.
Thats the stallion schedule. Regular, predictable collection encourages better production. In laymans terms, its our way of aligning supply to demand so we know where to set our stud fees. And the chart beside it is the pending shipment listthe one I need to get back to before I can give you the tour and before this sample loses viability. So please, Mr. Jacobs, go away and let me do my job.
Wyatt, he corrected.
She didnt want to be on a first-name basis with him. That implied friendshipsomething they would never have. But he was the boss and that meant she had to mind her manners.
Wyatt. Sutherland Farm bloodstock has been producing champion jumping and dressage stock for years. Let me show you to the visitors lounge in the office building. You can have a cup of coffee and look through the catalogue of our studs, mares and foals until I finish here.
His dark gaze lingered on hers until an odd sensation stirred in the pit of her stomach and her toes curled in her boots. I can find the lounge.
The moment he left the room tension drained from her shoulders, torso and legs as if leaking through her soles. She sagged against the work table, bowing her head and taking a moment to collect her composure.
Damn the man. How was she going to work with him when she couldnt even stand to be in the same room with him? He made her uncomfortable with his long, intense examinations and he was clearly searching for a reasonany reasonto fire her.
Shed barely gotten back into the groove when the door opened again. She snapped upright. Her stomach sank as Wyatt strolled in carrying one of the farms many photo albums and ending her short-lived reprieve. He parked himself on the stool directly across the table from her microscope.
No. I thought you were going to let me work.
Im not stopping you. The sooner you finish, the sooner we can get on with business. He directed his attention to the book in front of him.
Irritation sputtered through her. If he didnt quit distracting her, hed never get his tour, and he acted as if the delay was her fault.
Determined to ignore him, she gritted her teeth and returned to the job at hand. Every time she looked up from the microscope her gaze slammed straight into his, and each time she felt those dark eyes on her or his body shifted her pulse skipped.
She wanted him gone. From her lab. From her farm. From her life. Daddy, what have you done?
Forcing herself to concentrate, she powered through her work with sheer determination. When she finally sealed the last tube in the shipping package, relief coursed through her. Dread trotted close behind. Finishing meant shed have to spend time alone with her new boss.
Resigned to the torture, she sighed. Where do you want to start?
He closed the portfolio and slowly rose, unfolding one smooth muscle after the other. As much as she hated to admit it, Wyatt Jacobs had great conformation and grace in motion, like one of Sutherlands prized dressage champions. Anywhere.
She swallowed her impatience. She wanted to make this as quick and painless as possible. He wasnt helping. Narrow that down. We have two thousand acres. Which parts of the property have you not seen?
Except for the house, this barn and the office building, I havent seen any of the farm.
Her mouth dropped open. You spent millions of dollars without seeing what you were getting for your money?
I had pictures, topography maps and the video package the real estate appraiser prepared. Sutherland Farm suits my needs.
She remembered the videographers visit several months ago. Her father had told her the film would be used for promotional purposes and shed had no reason not to believe him because they often had photographers on the premises. That meant not only had her father lied, but hed been scheming to tear her world apart for months. That hurt.
But the past was over. She had to deal with the present, and the present included the testosterone-packed problem in front of her.
And what exactly are your needs? She winced when she heard the double entendre of her words.
As if a door slammed shut, Wyatts face instantly turned inscrutable. To own a horse farm. What else?
Wyatt Jacobs was lying through his perfect white teeth. Hannah would swear to it. But she couldnt prove it. And even if she could, what could she do about it? Right now she was nothing but a puppet. And he held her strings.
Hannah didnt believe him, and frankly, Wyatt didnt care. He wasnt here to make friends. In fact, it would suit him better if she got ticked off and quit her job.
Playing chaperone to a spoiled princess had never been part of his plan. Hed bought the farm for Sam and had intended spending as little time here as possible. But Hannah would require more supervision than his planned sporadic visits.
The door to the lab burst open, shattering the standoff between him and the bothersome brunette. A lanky redheaded guy rushed in. Doc Wills got another one.
Hannahs body language changed instantly from resentful and reluctant to alert and attentive. Wyatt found the switch quite intriguing. She didnt snap at the new guy for keeping the door open, dripping on the floor or tracking in mud. Instead, she wiggled her fingers in a give-me-more gesture.
He got a call to euthanize, but he decided to give you a look first. Hes down at the barn.
Those big blue eyes rounded. Hes here instead of calling for a consult?
Yep. Its that critical. He hightailed it off the property as soon as the authorities gave him the okay. He says this one will be a real test of your skills.
Hes assuming Ill say yes.
The redhead chuckled. Hannah, you never say no.
Wyatt tried to make sense of their conversation and couldnt, but he seriously doubted the twentysomething guy meant the words in a sexual contextwhich was exactly where Wyatts brain headed when he heard a woman couldnt say no.
He shut down that mental detour and cursed his traitorous libido. Hannah Sutherland might have a rockin body and a damned sexy pout, but there would be nothing remotely intimate between him and his temporary employee.
Im Wyatt Jacobs. And you are? His question brought both sets of eyes in his direction.
Hannah grimaced. Im sorry. Jeb Jones, our veterinary assistant. Wyatt is the new owner.
Wyatt shook Jebs hand. Who is Doc Will?
Hannah ripped off her lab coat and hung it on the hook by the door. Will is one of our county veterinarians. Your tour will have to wait.
Are you willing to risk the consequences of refusing my request? He didnt need to elaborate that shed be fired, but her quick gasp told him she received his unspoken message loud and clear.
Her defiant gaze drilled him. You didnt request, Mr. Jacobs. You ordered. And Im not refusing. Im postponing your tour until after Ive handled this emergency.
Her exasperation came across loud and clear despite the pretty-please smile punctuating her sentence. No doubt that smile worked on most men. Not him.
Lets go, Jeb. Hannah rushed from the lab.
The kid hesitated, as if trying to decide who was in charge, but then he mistakenly fell in behind his cohort. Taken aback by Hannahs insubordination and the kids loyalty, Wyatt rocked on his heels. Then he reconsidered. This wasnt the case of a woman standing up for her convictions. Hannah was a spoiled daddys girl who believed the rules didnt apply to her. Hed teach her and her flunky differently.
He followed the pair, intent on firing Hannah, giving her follower a warning and informing the veterinarian that Sutherland Farm was no longer a dumping ground for unwanted animals of any kind. Hannah might not be able to say no, but Wyatt had no such problem.
Ahead of him Hannah and Jeb raced down the driveway heedless of the rain. They veered off the paved surface and onto a gravel track leading to a building set behind a copse of trees several hundred yards from the main barn. Wyatt climbed into his Mercedes and drove the distance rather than get soaked.
Once he pulled off the asphalt, the uneven ground tested his cars suspension. Considering the pristine condition of the rest of the property, the neglect surprised him. He made a mental note to speak to the manager about ordering a load of gravel to fill the potholes.
A pickup truck with a horse trailer attached had backed through the barns open doors. He parked beside it and surveyed the stone building through the rain streaming down his windshield. The smaller barn had the same architecturally attractive design as the other barns, but the structure, like the driveway hadnt been as well-maintained as the rest of the farm. Odd.
He climbed from his car, then squeezed between the trailer and doorjamb. While the outside of the building lacked sparkle, the interior was as spotless as a barn could be. The combined scents of fresh shavings, hay and oats ambushed him with memories of happier times with Sam.
The trailers rear ramp had been lowered into the center hallway. Inside the metal enclosure a horse danced restlessly in the right compartment, its feet thumping hollowly on the rubberized mat covering the steel floor.
Hannah occupied the left half of the trailer, a rib-high divider separating her from the agitated creature. She stroked the animals withers and back, and spoke calmly. Its okay, girl. You have nothing to fear. Were going to take good care of you.
Her quiet, soothing tone contrasted with the impatient one shed used with him each time hed asked a question this morning.
The horse responded with a panicked sound that raised the fine hairs on Wyatts body. It had been almost fifteen years since hed been around horses, but even he recognized the animals terror.
Firing Hannah would have to wait until she wasnt in physical danger. Distraction in the workplace was an invitation to disaster. Get out of there.
In a minute, she replied without raising her voice. Okay boys, lets ease her out and see what we have.
Youre not gonna like it, an older gentleman wearing muddy jeans and a battered field jacket said as he came from behind the trailer and clapped Wyatt on the shoulder. Best not to get behind this one, son.
Wyatt flashed back to his teens. Hed heard the same warning from Sam too many times to count when Sam had been at the top of his game and lucid all the time and not just intermittently.
Hannah scowled at Wyatt across the distance. Ill call you when Im done.
Im not leaving.
If you stay, youll end up getting in the way or getting hurt.
I worked on a thoroughbred farm from the time I was fourteen until I went to college. But dont unload that horse. It needs to go back to wherever it came from.
Her expression turned belligerent. Thats not an optiona fact the police will confirm if you pick up the phone and ask for Officer
Harris, the veterinarian supplied when Hannah arched an eyebrow.
Her continued defiance rasped against Wyatts last nerve. I dont want that animal on this property.
Hannah descended the ramp and didnt stop until they were toe-to-toe, chest to chestso close he could taste the mint on her breath and feel the heat steaming from her rain-dampened clothing.
He fought to keep his attention from the way her white polo shirt had turned almost transparent. Fought and failed. The wet fabric clung to her hard-nippled breasts and outlined her thin white bra. His hormones reacted the way a healthy mans would and, try as he might, he could not control the sudden increase in his pulse rate.
Mr. Jacobs, Wyatt, if you feel the same way after Ive examined her, well discuss other arrangements. But for now, please step aside, and let me do my job.
I thought you were the breeding specialist.
I only work a half day on Saturdays. In my off hours I wear a different hat.
Have you forgotten who pays your salary?
Youre not likely to let that happen. Give me an hour to examine the mare and see what were dealing with. This could be a matter of life and death. Im not ready to take a life without just cause. Are you?
Are you always so melodramatic?
Hardly ever, she answered deadpan.
Her determination impressed him. Make it quick.
Thank you. She returned to the trailer, apparently undaunted by the agitated creatures dancing.
Under her direction the trio coaxed the horse down the ramp in fits and spurts. The mares hesitant steps alternated with nervous hops and skips, then in a sudden backward lunge the horse launched from the trailer kicking up a spray of shavings. Once the dust settled the wild-eyed animal quivered in the hall, its terror-widened eyes taking in the scene.
Then Wyatt saw what the shadowy trailer had concealed. Open sores and scars crisscrossed the emaciated back, haunches and muzzle. Bloody rings circled the mares back legs just above the hooves.
Shed been abused. His gut muscles seized and rage blazed within him. Who did this?
The vet shook his head without taking his eyes from the animal. Mean SOB who owned her. I hope the cops give him a taste of his own medicine. A billy club upside his head would be a nice touch.
Hannah handed the lead rope to Jeb then eased around the horse without ever lifting her palm from the animals dull, scarred hide. Wyatt recognized the trick as one Sam had employed. By never losing contact, the horse always knew where you were and wouldnt be startled.
You know animal abusers get a slap on the wrist at best, Will. Her frustration came through loud and clear even though she kept her tone low and even. She doesnt look good.
Nope. Not much to work with, the vet replied. She wouldnt have lasted another week in that hellhole.
Wyatt focused on the deep gouges and bloody fetlocks. Now that the fight had drained out of the mare her head hung low as if she were resigned to whatever came next and fighting took more energy than she possessed. Shed probably been a beauty once, but now she was nothing more than a broken shell. She looked ready to collapse. Her spirit seemed broken, her usefulness in doubt.
Like Sam.
The parallel was so strong it blindsided Wyatt. He hated to see anything or anyone turned into a victim trapped in a body that could no longer function or fight back. He turned to the vet whod brought the animal. You should have put her down.
Maybe. Thats Hannahs call now.
Why prolong her misery? Ending her suffering would be more humane.
Hannah bristled, agitating the mare into a side step. Just because the owner is worthless doesnt mean the animal is. Every life has value, including hers. Her teeth indicate shes less than ten years old. There could be a lot of good years in her yet.
Shes debilitated, terrified and in pain, Wyatt countered, his fists curling in frustration.
If anyone can pull her through, Hannah can, the vet said.
A muscle jumped in Wyatts jaw. The horse had been through hell, and someone had to find the compassion and make the executive decision to end her suffering. That someone was him, apparently.
Shes probably disease-ridden and could infect the other horses. And after being abused this severely, her trust in man has likely been irrevocably broken.
Hannah planted herself between Wyatt and the mare. She didnt look like a spoiled daddys girl now. She resembled a mama grizzly passionately defending her cub. You cant write her off without giving her a chance.
Her stormy gaze hit Wyatt with a fireball of pain, anger and frustration, the same emotions rumbling through him. The fight in her eyes would cause a lesser man to back down.
Giving horses second chances is what I do, Wyatt. And if youd done your research on the farm before you tossed around your money, you would realize its what you do now, too.
Wyatt stiffened as the barb hit home. He couldnt argue with facts. Hed delegated his research. The agents report hadnt included anything about Sutherland Farm being a dumping ground for damaged animals, or Hannah Sutherland, who was going to make damned sure he paid for delegating.
That right rear leg could be broken.
Hannah didnt even glance at it. Its cut deep from the hobbles. It looks like the brute bound her back legs so she couldnt defend herself when he beat her. But from the way shes bearing weight on it, its most likely superficial. Ill run X-rays to confirm.
You mean youll run up expenses on a lost cause.
She glared at him. This isnt about money. Find Your Center saves lives. It doesnt destroy them unnecessarily.
What in the hell is Find Your Center?
Irritation darkened her eyes to storm cloud gray and tightened the tendons running the length of her neck as she stuck out her chin, making the diamonds in her ears sparkle in the barns overhead lighting. If shed been a guy, she probably would have punched him.
Illustrating once again, Mr. Jacobs, you should have done your homework before your underhanded purchase.
There was nothing devious about my purchasing this farm. It was for sale. I bought it.
She visibly reined in her temper, taking a deep breath then relaxing her tense muscles. Sutherland Farm specializes in birth and rebirth.
A bird swooped through the open barn door. The horse spooked and jumped sideways, its haunches knocking into Hannah. She stumbled. Wyatt instinctively sprang forward to catch her. His muscles bunched as he banded his arms around her and braced his thighs to keep them both from going down under the ragged, dancing hooves.
Her feet tangled with his as she scrambled for traction and shifted against him in ways that made him excruciatingly aware of the surprising firmness and strength beneath her curves.
Are you all right? he asked through a knotted jaw.
Her wary gaze locked with his. Her cheeks flushed and her lips parted. His pulse spiked and heat flooded him, proving he shared something he wanted no part of with the pampered princess.
Chemistry.
Im fine. Thank you. Release me. Please. She planted her palms on his chest and pushed, broke his hold and backed away. Keeping an equally watchful eye on him, she circled to the opposite side of the horse.
Im sorry, Hannah, Jeb said. I have her now.
Its okay, Jeb. My mistake, she offered. I know better than to turn my back on an unfamiliar animal.
She flashed a brief look at Wyatt as if he were the animal in question, then she bent to reexamine the mares fetlock the way shed done everything this morningwith a methodical thoroughness and attention to detail that had frustrated him in the lab because hed suspected her of deliberately stalling as she checked and rechecked each sample and then meticulously packaged and charted each vial. Slow and steady was very likely her modus operandi and not just a passive-aggressive ploy to get under his skin.
She finally stepped away from the mare and, ignoring Wyatt, approached the vet, whod been watching Wyatt as much as he had the horse. Ill keep her.
She could jeopardize the safety of the other horses, Wyatt objected.
Shell be quarantined until the test results come back.
The vet nodded. Thanks, Hannah. Ill take care of the legalities. Can you send me the pictures documenting the abuse ASAP? I took some video with my cell phone and shot that off to the authorities. But detailed still shots will help our case.
Ill get photos before and after I clean and treat her wounds, and Ill email those and the lab results to you as soon as Im done.
Wyatt didnt like the way this was playing out. The mares suffering should end. Put her down. Ill cover the cost.
Hannah gripped Wyatts forearm. Her touch burned through his sleeve like tongues of fire. Heat licked up his limb and settled in his torso.
If you dont care about the mare, let me put it another way. To stand any chance of making the bastard who did this pay for his heinous crimes and to keep him from hurting another animal, well need documentation. Not only was this mare beaten and malnourished, she was obviously living in filth. The judge has to see what a sadist her owner is or the jerk might be allowed to own and torture other animals. No creature deserves to live or die in those conditions. Please, Wyatt, let me do this for her.
When she put it like that how could he refuse? Reports of abuse and neglect had been the top reasons hed refused to put Sam in a facility. The mare, like Sam, deserved to be treated with dignity.
Her movements slow and deliberate, Hannah approached the mare and smoothed a hand down the white blaze. The horse shied away, tossing her head and almost knocking Hannah over, but the stupid woman wouldnt quit. She kept sweet-talking and caressing until the horse tolerated her touch.
Look at that face. She deserves a second chance, dont you, girl? Hannahs eyes, soft and wide, beseeched him. Give me two weeks. Unless she tests positive for something I cant cure, Ill prove to you, and to her, that she deserves a better life. When Im done shell be healthier so someone else might be willing to foster her. Worst-case scenario, her final days will be good ones. Shell be warm and clean and well-fed.
Wyatt couldnt care less about Hannahs bedroom-soft purr or the horses face. He didnt believe for one minute this spoiled rich girl had what it took to bring the mare back from near-death, but her point about final days got to him. Thats why hed bought the farm for Sam.
Two weeks. You pay for the costs, and no heroic measures.
Relief softened Hannahs expression. Wait and see the miracles a little TLC can create.
I dont believe in miracles.
She shrugged. Your loss. They happen every day.
Thats Pollyanna garbage.
Beats pessimism.
The vets pager buzzed. He pulled it from his pocket and frowned at the message. Hannah, darling, I have a colic call on the other side of the county. I have to go. Can you manage without me?
Jeb and I can handle her.
Hannah flicked her fingers at Wyatt in a dismissive gesture. You can go, too. Im going to be busy here for a while. Ill call you when Im done, and if theres still enough daylight left, youll get your tour. If not, Ill make time tomorrow.
The liability of her getting hurt on the job outweighed his disgust with the situation, and he couldnt think of a better way to keep an eye on her than to help. Im not leaving. Youll be shorthanded without Doc.
Hannah frowned. Her mouth opened, then closed as if shed considered arguing but had changed her mind. If you insist on staying, then go into the office and get my camera out of my desk drawer. You can take the before photographs while I get my suture kit. But stay out of my way.
Her bossy tone reminded him that she was probably used to men jumping at her command. Shed learn quickly that he had no intention of being one of her minions.
Four
Hannah could barely concentrate on cleansing the mares wounds. She wished she could think of a way to get rid of her new bossone that didnt include angering him and making him renege on their bargain.
Her collision with Wyatt earlier had left her more than a little mystified. His touch had filled her with some weird, almost kinetic energy that she couldnt identify and didnt like. And since then it was almost as if shed grown antennae that stayed tuned into the Wyatt channel. The constant awareness of him was exhausting. She wanted it and him gone.
His hawkeyed presence made her uncomfortablesomething the sensitive mare picked up on and displayed with each nervous swish of her tail. Add in that he had removed his sweater ten minutes ago, revealing a newsworthy set of broad shoulders in his snug white T-shirt, and Hannah was practically salivating over a pair of deliciously defined pectorals.
Pitiful, Hannah. Just pitiful.
She glanced up and her gaze slammed into Wyatts dark brown one over the mares withers. Her pulse bucked.
When will Jeb return? he asked in that rumbly, make-her-insides-quiver voice of his.
Itll take him a while to run all the tests. Well probably finish before he does.
Does the staff always dump the dirty work on you?
She couldnt tell if his question arose from genuine curiosity or from the quest for information he could use against her coworkers. She would have to guard every word she said.
They know I like cleanup detail. It gives me a chance to assess the damage and get to know the horse. But for what its worth, a number of the employees volunteer their free time to FYC like Jeb is today. Weekends are hectic for most of us. Our trainers are away at horse shows, and the staff left behind is tied up with current or prospective clients.
Despite the crowded farm, this barn was empty except for the two of themsomething her crazy hormones couldnt seem to ignore.
As much as she disliked the arrogant jerk she needed his cooperation and financial support to keep FYC going. If Wyatt fired her, who would care for her horses? They werent ready for adoption yet and had little monetary value in their current conditions. She had to take every opportunity to sell the concept of Find Your Center to Wyatt and not only make him a believer, but a willing sponsor.
Making nice wouldnt kill heror so Nellie always claimed. Afraid shed choke on the necessary words, Hannah swallowed and forced a smile. I appreciate your help and the extra set of hands today. Youll see that its time well spent.
Doubtful. He capped the antibiotic salve, drawing her attention to his handsas if she hadnt been fixated on them already. He had good hands. Firm. Strong. Gentle when necessary.
The kind of hands a woman wanted in a lover.
Dont go there.
But she couldnt help it. She would never have anticipated tenderness and patience from the arrogant oaf. You were good with the mare. I expected squeamishness from a guy wearing cashmere and Gucci, but you applied that slimy salve to her wounds with a deft touch and no gagging.
His appraisal turned suspicious, as if he suspected an ulterior motive behind her compliment. I have some experience.
So youve said, but youve left out the details.
He ignored her invitation to fill in the blanks. She smothered a sigh. There was only one way to find out what she wanted to knowby getting to know the boss better. Not something she relished, but it was a tactic shed learned from her more competitive cousin. Megan always found out what motivated her adversaries, then used it against them to trounce them in the show ring.
Tell me about your years on the thoroughbred farm, Hannah prompted.
Wyatt wiped his hands, slowly and deliberately on a rag, then stepped back to check his handiwork. Not much to tell. My mother married the stable owner when I was fourteen. He gave me odd jobs to keep me out of trouble until I went to college.
She studied his tightly controlled hair and expression and his traditional attire. You dont look like the type to find trouble.
His lips flattened. Are we done here?
You avoided answering.
He gave her a level look. You didnt ask a question, and my personal life is none of your business.
She tried to hide her frustration, but she wasnt admitting defeat so easily. Were finished for now. We have pictures of her wounds and details on the severity of infection. Ill put her in the quarantine stall and let her rest. She should be exhausted from the travel and all this first aid. Once Jeb has the test results, there will likely be more work to do.
She dropped the irrigation syringe into the bucket, peeled off her gloves, set the pail aside and hitched a lead line to the halter. The moment she released her patient from the cross ties the mare tossed her head, almost dislocating Hannahs shoulder.
Shes going to hurt you.
And let me guess, youre more worried about the workers compensation claim than me. Oops. Shut up, Hannah.
Triple Crown Distillery prides itself on running a safe operation. I will expect Sutherland Farm to do the same.
We do, but this isnt a manufacturing plant. We work with live animals that have personalities instead of stationary vats and casks. The mare doesnt know whether were friends or foes, and after what weve just put her through she probably thinks were every bit as bad as her owner. Dont hold her skittishness against her. Shell reveal her true nature as she gets to know us. She stroked the mares long neck. Lets go to your new home, girl.
Wyatt blocked her path with a wall of solid muscle and his upper arm bumped Hannahs, splattering her with warmth. Ill take the lead. Ill be able to control her better.
Thats a chauvinist statement if I ever heard one.
Im stronger and I outweigh you.
She surrendered the line. Any bonding he might do with the horse would work in her favor. She goes in the last stall on the right.
Despite the hour theyd spent working as a team, she still knew next to nothing about her new boss. Intent on finding out as much as she could, she kept pace beside him as they traversed the center aisle. Your parents are divorced?
Yes.
Father still part of the picture?
No.
Did you enjoy working at the stable?
Parts of it.
Did you like your stepfather?
Yes.
Still keep in touch?
Yes.
Not exactly a conversationalist, are you, Jacobs? She winced as soon as the words left her mouth.
Dont bite the hand that feeds you, Hannah
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Emilie Rose
Тип: электронная книга
Жанр: Современные любовные романы
Язык: на английском языке
Издательство: HarperCollins
Дата публикации: 16.04.2024
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О книге: Her Tycoon to Tame, электронная книга автора Emilie Rose на английском языке, в жанре современные любовные романы