Cowboy All Night (Thunder Mountain Brotherhood, Book 5) (4 page)

Brant thought of his mud-spattered vehicle. Old Bessie hadn’t been near a hose and a bucket for at least a month. “Have you seen my truck?”

“Not up close, but it doesn’t matter. Judging from your recent performance, you’ll be washing my truck.”

“And if it’s a tie,” Lexi said, “you can both wash
my
truck.”

“My van could use a wash,” Aria said as she stirred the mushrooms. “I planned on driving out here in the morning, anyway, so I can see Linus.”

Brant perked up at that announcement. Logically she should have tomorrow morning free and he’d planned to ask her if she’d come to the ranch. Instead she’d volunteered to come back, so she was making the foal a priority. Good news for Linus.

“That works,” Lexi said. “I’ll share.”

“I like this bet now.” Rosie sipped her champagne. “Puts a different spin on things. Too bad Herb just washed our truck or I’d get in on it.”

Herb leaned forward. “I won’t tell you not to have this contest, but that’s a full box. I’d advise you to set a limit on the number of matches per contestant. You can’t be lighting matches while we eat
.
”

“Might be sort of festive,” Brant said. “Take a bite, light a match. Take a bite, light a match.”

“Might be sort of stupid.” Cade gazed across the table at him. “What do you think? Thirty?”

“Thirty it is.” Brant dug a quarter out of his jeans pocket and flipped it in the air. “Call it.”

“Heads.”

“And it’s tails, my friend. Which is a sign that my luck has turned.” Brant counted out thirty matches and leaned back in his chair. “Light ’er up, loser.”

“Wait.” Aria hurried over to the table. “I want to see this Battle of the Sacred Flame.”

“Then allow me to be your champion.” Brant stood and pulled out her chair.

“Hang on.” Cade paused, a match in his hand. “She only said she wanted to watch. She didn’t say anything about making you her champion.”

Brant shrugged. “Seems only right. You have a fair maiden rooting for you, so I should be able to—”

“I’m actually rooting for a tie,” Lexi said. “I want my truck washed.”

“That’s my stake in this, too.” Aria took her seat.

Oh, really?
Brant reevaluated the situation. A woman who didn’t want to have anything to do with a man wouldn’t jump into a contest that might cause that man to wash her vehicle. Would she?

“Right on, girlfriend.” Lexi exchanged a high-five with her.

Brant decided to go with it. “Looks like we’re on our own, bro. No fair maidens cheering us on like in the good old days.”

“Just as well. This won’t take long.” Cade leaned forward and locked his gaze with Brant’s as he flicked the match with this thumbnail. It ignited. “And that’s how it’s done.” He blew it out and tossed it on the plate he’d been using for cheese. “You’re up.”

Brant didn’t care if he won or not. He never had cared. But early on he’d figured out that winning mattered to most guys, especially when it came to things like championship basketball games. So he’d pretended to be competitive as hell. Besides, Aria was sitting at the table, and while he didn’t personally mind if he lost, winning might be better with her watching.

So he concentrated more than he would have normally and lit match after match. Cade kept pace with him and eventually they each had only one left. Brant held his up. “Let’s go for the big finish. On the count of three, we’ll both light our match...or not.”

“Just so you both end up with the same result,” Lexi said.

“My thoughts exactly.” Aria finished off her champagne. “Matilda is filthy.”

Brant glanced away from the match in his hand. “You named your van?”

“Yep. I always name my ride.”

“Me, too.” He liked knowing they had that in common. Somehow there had been a subtle shift and Aria was no longer quite so resistant to...what? He wasn’t sure, but the situation was more promising than it had been.

“Are you counting or conversing?” Cade waved his match in the air.

“Counting.” Brant dragged out the process because at this stage of the game dignity was gone, anyway. On three he scratched the head of the match with his thumbnail. Nothing. He looked over at Cade.

His brother held an unlit match and had a goofy smile on his face. He tossed his match on the table. “Looks as if we’ll be washing vehicles for the ladies.” He didn’t seem particularly upset about it, either. Brant had the distinct impression Cade hadn’t tried to light his match.

“Excellent!” Aria clapped her hands together. “How early do you want me here?”

“Early.” He couldn’t remember when he’d anticipated anything more. Between washing Aria’s van and working with her foal, he’d spend the bulk of his morning with her. He wondered if Cade had figured that out and had decided to play Cupid.

“Everybody be sure to forward your pictures to my phone,” Aria said. “I’m going to show them to Josh so I can convince him to come with me.”

“Yeah, I hope he does,” Brant said immediately. He’d forgotten about her brother, and he couldn’t let himself do that.

Linus was supposed to be Josh’s colt and if a wheelchair would be part of the mix, that should be introduced early. Yeah, the prospect of seeing her tomorrow had lost a little of its shine because Josh might be there. So what? He’d comfort himself by picturing how happy she’d be if Josh fell in love with the foal the way she had.

4

A
RIA
PRESENTED
THE
meal in the traditional way, placing the skillet in the middle of the table on a hot pad. Once she’d served everyone, Rosie raised her glass. “To Aria.”

“To Aria!” everyone chorused.

She believed it was good, but their expectations were high thanks to Herb’s extravagant comments. “Maybe you should taste it first.”

“Don’t have to,” Herb said. “It looks and smells exactly like what we had on our honeymoon.”

“Must have been quite a meal,” Brant said. “I can’t remember what I ate yesterday, let alone years ago.”

“Because you don’t seek out gourmet food.” Cade waved a hand toward his plate. “Aria’s cooking classes are gonna turn Lexi and me into adventurous eaters. We’ll set stuff on fire and everything.”

“Sometimes even on purpose,” Lexi said.

“You’re all welcome to talk about food for as long as you like, but I’m ready to eat it.” Herb took a bite of his chicken.

Aria held her breath as Herb closed his eyes and made a little sound of pleasure deep in his throat. At least she hoped it was pleasure and not distress. Come to think of it, those sounds might be similar.

He chewed and swallowed. Then he looked at her and smiled. “Absolutely delicious, even better than I remembered. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” She relaxed and picked up her fork. As everyone else dug in, she was bombarded with praise. The meal was a hit.

When Ringo sat expectantly beside his bowl, Cade put a small bite of chicken in it. After a curious sniff, the cat polished it off and fixed Cade with a demanding stare. “That’s all you get, buddy,” Cade said. “I’m being selfish tonight.”

Aria considered that high praise. During the months she’d been visiting her mare and sharing meals with the family she’d noticed that Cade normally shared generously with his cat.

Herb glanced over at Rosie. “This tastes so much like the meal we had in Jackson Hole that I feel as if I’m on my honeymoon again.”

“Uh-oh.” Brant looked at Cade and lifted his eyebrows. “Maybe we should all clear out of here after dinner, hmm?”

“Sounds like it to me.”

Rosie blushed bright red. “Oh, for pity’s sake. Nobody has to run off.”

“It’s fine with me if they go home early.” Herb’s eyes twinkled.

“Herbert!” Rosie hid her face in her napkin.

Aria had never seen anything so adorable. “I should make this for you two more often.”

“Just warn me when you do,” Cade said, “so I don’t accidentally drop by some evening and find them making out on the sofa.”

“Stop!” Rosie waved her napkin in the air. “Just stop!”

“Speaking of interrupting things,” Brant said. “I should probably sleep in my old cabin tonight. I figured Rosie would put me in one of the guest rooms, but under the circumstances...”

Rosie groaned. “This has gotten so out of hand.” She turned to her husband. “And it’s your fault.”

He looked unrepentant. “I know.”

“Ellison, you don’t have to settle for your old cabin,” Cade said. “I’ve decided to offer you my new one.”

“You have a new one?”

“Yes,” Lexi said, “because he’s very important.”

Cade grinned at her. “Yes, I am. Because I’m the guy supervising the students after hours, I now have my own cabin on the property within walking distance of what are now the student cabins. You can have my place while you’re here and I’ll stay at Lexi’s.”

Brant folded his arms across his chest. “And who’s supposed to ride herd on these teenagers while you’re kicking back in Lexi’s apartment?”

Cade pretended surprise. “You know, I hadn’t thought of that!”

“Uh-huh.”

“I guess it would be you.” Cade’s attempt to look innocent failed completely when he started to laugh. “Is that a problem?”

“Hell, no. I can sleep through anything. Enjoy your mini-vacation.”

“They won’t act up,” Rosie said. “You’ve never quite understood how much your size intimidates people who don’t know you.”

Brant laughed. “Are you saying I’m scary?”

“Don’t knock it,” Cade said. “Last semester’s kids were pretty good, but they tested me. You look like a nightclub bouncer. Once they meet you, they’ll behave.”

“I’m not crazy about playing the role of enforcer, but if it helps you out, brother of mine, I’ll do it. Is this cabin within walking distance of the bathhouse?”

“No need. It has plumbing.”

“Why didn’t you say that in the first place? For a cabin with plumbing I’ll gladly flex my muscles and look forbidding.”

“Thought so.”

“But I trust you didn’t mess with tradition and install plumbing in the old cabins.”

“Of course they didn’t,” Lexi said. “I think it’s ridiculous, but the guys all insist that walking to the bathhouse in the dead of winter builds character.”

Aria made a face. “And did all sixteen students from last semester agree?”

“Most did,” Cade said. “We had a couple of whiney pants in the beginning, but peer pressure is a wonderful thing. After the first week the spoiled babies realized they were losing points with the others and shut up about it.”

Lexi skewered him with a glance. “If trudging to the bathhouse is such a character-builder, how come you have a full bath with a tub and shower,
plus
a towel warmer and a heat lamp?”

“Oh, man.” Brant shook his head. “You’re getting soft, Gallagher. I’ll take the high road and not use those particular amenities while I’m here.”

“It’s almost June, bozo. You don’t need them in the summer. Besides, those extras aren’t for me. They’re for Lexi when she stays over.”

“Oh, no, they’re for him,” Lexi said. “I made some surprise visits this past winter and if I happened to catch him in the shower, he’d have them both cooking.”

“Just testing them out to make sure they were up and running for you, sweetheart.” Cade pushed back his chair. “And now that we’ve taken that subject and stomped it to death, let’s clean up these dishes so I can escort Brant over to the cabin he’ll call home.”

“I need to scoot on down to the barn and check on Linus and Lucy.” Herb glanced over at Rosie. “Shouldn’t be long.” Then he winked at her and left the kitchen.

“Ooo-wee!” Lexi gave Rosie a thumbs-up. “Your man is feeling frisky tonight!”

Rosie seemed genuinely flustered. “I had no idea coq au vin would have such an effect on him.”

“Want to learn how to make it yourself?” Aria picked up the empty skillet and carried it to the sink. The meal had turned out better than she could have imagined. Thank goodness she’d suggested it, even if the evening had created complications regarding one Brant Ellison. She’d let down her guard and now she’d have to deal with the consequences.

“You know, maybe I should.” Rosie’s color was still high, but there was a gleam of anticipation in her blue eyes. She looked years younger.

With extra motivation to get the job done, everyone had the kitchen shipshape in no time. Giving Rosie hugs, they all left the house and headed for the barn. Ringo was on mice duty every night, so he trotted along beside Cade.

They met Herb on his way back. “Both mama and baby are doing fine,” he said. “Linus is fast asleep and Lucy’s dozing.”

“Would it be okay to look in on them?” Aria didn’t want to leave without seeing them one more time.

“Sure thing.”

“Thank you, Herb, for all you’ve done.” Aria gave him a hug.

Herb hugged her back. “You’re more than welcome. That meal was amazing.”

“Rosie wants to learn how to make it.” She considered that a professional victory.

He looked surprised. “She does? Even with the flaming brandy?”

“She does,” Lexi said. “I heard her say it. Listen, I have an idea. Since we all loved it so much, how about a private lesson here at the ranch? I’m thinking this coming Tuesday night if you’re available, Aria. On Wednesday the students will arrive, so it’s now or never.”

Aria nodded, happy that her cooking skills were valued. “I could absolutely do that.”

“Great! Just figure out what you need to charge us and we’ll divide up the—”

“Hey, I wouldn’t dream of charging you guys. If you decide to take my regular lessons on Monday nights, I’ll accept payment for that. But this is special. You were all here for Linus. Let me give something back.”

“That’s very generous of you,” Herb said. “After all Rosie and I have been through lately, I’m getting much better at accepting the generosity of others. Thank you.”

She smiled at him. “Then it’s settled. Tuesday night it is.”

“I look forward to it. And on that note, I’ll bid you all good-night.” Herb set off toward the house, his pace brisk.

Lexi sighed as the four of them continued on toward the barn. “They’re still in love after all these years. That’s inspiring.”

“Yeah.” Cade wrapped an arm around her shoulders.

“Apparently the coq au vin was inspiring, too.” Brant fell into step beside Aria. “Good job.”

“Just a lucky coincidence. When I suggested fixing it tonight I had no idea I’d stir up honeymoon memories. But that’s the thing about food. There’s often an emotional connection to it.”

“You’re right,” Lexi said. “Assuming I learn how to make it, I’ll always think of Linus being born and all of us enjoying a great meal together afterward.”

“Me, too.” Cade gestured toward Brant’s truck. “And I’ll remember our epic Battle of the Sacred Flame. Too bad you didn’t win, though, Ellison. That sucker needs a wash bad.”

“You know what? I like it that way. The mud covers up the dents and scratches. Besides, I’d rather wash a pretty red van named Matilda any day.”

Cade laughed. “I figured.”

Aria tingled with awareness. Brant was flirting and Cade had just acknowledged it. She liked feeling sexy and carefree for a change. Ever since Josh’s accident she’d focused most of her attention on his recovery, and the process hadn’t been a lot of laughs. But guilt followed soon after with thoughts about Josh. How could she enjoy herself when he was stuck in that wheelchair?

“Since my truck’s parked at the cabin,” Cade said, “I planned to hitch a ride over there with Brant and then drive back and pick up Lex.” He looked at her. “Unless you want to come along?”

“I’d rather stay with Aria and check out the baby.”

“I thought as much. I’ll take a quick look when I get back.”

Aria turned to Brant. “I should say good-night. You’ll probably want to turn in.”

“Not yet. After I dump my stuff in the cabin, I need to see how mama and baby are doing. I’ll ride back with Cade.”

“Then we shall return, ladies.” Cade gave Lexi a quick kiss before climbing into Brant’s truck.

“Cade’s a great guy,” Aria said as she and Lexi started toward the barn.

“He is a great guy and I love him to death, but I want to make absolutely sure we’re ready before we take the big step. It’s a huge commitment.”

“Definitely.”

“I didn’t realize that at twenty, but I do now.” She slid aside the bar holding the doors closed and swung open the right-hand side. Ringo dashed through it. “Plus Damon and Philomena are getting married at the end of this month. That’s enough wedding hoopla for the time being.”

“Their relationship seems solid.” Aria followed Lexi into the dimly lit barn. Damon and Phil had fallen in love last summer while working together to build a fourth cabin for the students. They were bank customers, and every time she saw them together they looked very happy.

“They’re perfect for each other,” Lexi said. “Cade and I are, too, but our relationship still needs some seasoning.”

“I can’t even think in terms of marriage right now.” Aria lowered her voice as they drew closer to the back of the barn so she wouldn’t disturb the mare and foal. “There’s Josh to think about in the immediate future, and once he’s better, I’ll concentrate on getting my cooking school up and running. That’ll take years.”

“I understand.” Lexi kept her voice down, too. “I built my riding clinic business myself, and you get really protective after putting in all that time and effort. Any guy you’re involved with has to realize that you won’t be the little wifey who caters to his every whim.”

“Does Cade expect that?”

“Not really. Once in a while he’ll say something that comes from outdated thinking. But I’m tough to please. I’ve been making my own decisions for quite a few years.”

Aria nodded. “I’m pretty much the same. I know what I want and I’m not looking for some guy to provide it. On the other hand...”

“Brant Ellison is pretty to look at?”

“Yeah.” Aria glanced over at Lexi and smiled. “Yeah, he is.”

They both stopped talking as they reached the birthing stall. Standing side-by-side, they gazed silently at the newborn curled up beside his mother. Aria felt a tug of love so strong it was almost painful. Surely, Josh would soften once he met this little guy.

Lucy’s head was up but her eyes were closed. When Aria turned sixteen and was allowed to have her own horse, she’d chosen the mare for her golden coat. Dramatic color had been important to her at that age, but Lucy was a great deal more than a beautiful horse. Gentle and sweet, she’d become a cherished companion.

Three years ago Aria’s mom and dad had sold their small ranch and moved to Texas, which had meant boarding Lucy. Aria had vowed that someday she’d buy horse property and have both Lucy and her cooking school on site. Maybe Linus, too.

“I hear Cade’s truck,” Lexi murmured.

Male laughter drifted in through the open barn door, but once inside, the guys toned it down. They even managed to walk quietly on the wooden floor, which had to take skill since they were wearing boots.

As they drew closer, Aria and Lexi moved away from the stall door and motioned them forward. Aria was blessed with a tantalizing view of Brant’s wide shoulders and tight buns. He had the slight bow-legged stance of most cowboys who spent time on horseback, and Aria found that endearing.

Lexi was right—he was pretty to look at. Feelings she hadn’t entertained for quite a while warmed her. Even if nothing could come of those feelings, she was glad to know they weren’t hopelessly buried.

The men stepped back from the stall door and gestured for Aria and Lexi to walk out ahead of them. Aria held up her hand so she could go over for one last look.