I Don't Want to be Married

by Sonja Gunter

  Son of a bitch.

  “I tried . . . tried to get away,” she babbled. “I fell and cut my lip with my teeth.”

  With his thumb, he wiped the blood from her mouth. “I’m so sorry I wasn’t here.”

  He took her hands and pulled her to him. Her body shook. Without hesitation Allan lifted her securely into his arms. The police moved aside as he carried Rosalind out of the stall, through throngs of people.

  “Where else . . .” Allan’s voice faltered. “How many times did he hit you?”

  “He didn’t. I slipped and fell when you came in. My head had a date with a metal bar.”

  When they reached the sunlight, relief flooded through him and he let her stand. He brushed her hair behind her ears. “I love you . . .”

  “Excuse us. Do either of you require medical attention?”

  Two paramedics stood with a gurney and Allan moved aside. “Yes, she does.”

  “We’ll take her to the medical tent to check her out. Do you need help getting on?”

  Allan was about to set her on the gurney, but Rosalind stopped him.

  “No, I’m walking,” she firmly replied.

  “Madam, you shouldn’t be walking.”

  “I’ll walk or I won’t go.” She put her hands on her hips.

  “You should use the gurney. But if you insist on walking, please come with us.”

  She nodded and they ushered her into the tent. The flap closed behind her.

  “Sir, I think you should get checked out too.”

  Allan looked at a police officer, who’d come to stand next to him.

  “I’m fine.”

  “Judging by the beating you gave that man, it’s best you should.”

  Now that the adrenaline rush had faded, he did feel some pain in his side. “Thank you for your concern. As soon as my wife is cleared I’ll go.”

  “Very well, sir, but we will need your statement too,” the officer said.

  “I’m not going anywhere. My name is Allan Smith. Just call that name in.”

  The officer nodded and walked away. Cheers erupted and he turned. Since he’d passed through the barns, a crowd had gathered. The police shoved Tom into the rear of a squad car. More loud applause exploded when the door closed.

  Chapter 40

  Allan paced, talked to the police, and paced more as he waited for Rosalind to leave the tent. He’d been cleared with bruised ribs and knee. The paramedics wrapped his ribs and gave him some pain medicine, which he had no intention of taking. Soon Joe joined him, followed by David.

  “Any word yet?”

  “No. It’s driving me insane,” Allan fumed.

  “Don’t worry. She’s a tough filly,” David reassured.

  “If that son of a bitch hurt her, I’ll make sure he never gets out of jail,” Allan vowed.

  He moved away from them, took out his phone, and pressed Paul’s number.

  “Hello.”

  “Paul, the police have arrested Tom Clark. They said he’s confessed to posting the pics and vandalizing Rosalind’s barn and the vehicles.”

  “Do you need the lawyers to fly to Minnesota?”

  “No. Cease all inquiries about the website and pictures,” Allan ordered. “Give me news on the markets.”

  “The Euro climbed. The US dollar is sluggish,” Paul said.

  “I received the alert on the decline. We need to start moving the clients’ hedge funds.”

  “Don’t worry about us. I’ve already taken the necessary steps.”

  Allan took a deep breath, taking in the scene before him. Trailers, trucks, horses, and smells had him wrinkling his nose. So different from his stuffy closed-in office.

  It’s time to step away. Live life differently.

  “Great, thanks.” Allan paused, debating the decision he was about to make for only a moment. “Please contact our corporate lawyers and have them draw up the proper papers to make you the new president of Smith and Associates Brokerage Firm.”

  “Sir. You don’t need to . . . I couldn’t . . . the company can wait for you to return,” Paul protested.

  “I’ve lost my interest in the fast lane.” Allan’s admission was a self-awareness he’d been feeling for a long time. “See about starting an investment-consulting firm. We can have branches in rural areas to help the farmers and ranchers insure their long-term financial dreams.”

  “Does this mean you won’t be returning to New York?”

  Hearing Paul say the words solidified his decision. John wouldn’t be too happy, but their friendship had taken new avenues in the last months.

  “New York will always be my home. I just won’t be returning to my role as president. Everything will be fine, I expect. . .”

  A cheer blasted. He turned as Rosalind exited the medic tent. His group of friends had grown. Several rodeo cowboys and cowgirls stood waiting too.

  “Gotta go, Paul. Send the documents so I can sign them.”

  “Allan, you can’t . . .”

  “Bye, Paul.”

  He ended the call and met Rosalind’s searching gaze. She was a welcome sight. Radiant in the sunlight, her green eyes sparkled. He moved toward the crowd.

  “You’re one lucky guy. She loves you.”

  Allan grinned at David’s comment. “Yes, she does. Excuse me.”

  Rosalind ran to him. He hugged her and gave her a kiss that said so much.

  “I love you,” he sighed.

  “I love you too,” she purred and kissed him again.

  “I’m so sorry. I should’ve stayed by your side,” Allan whispered. “It won’t happen again.”

  “I’m fine, no broken bones. I might have some bruising.” “Did they say anything else?”

  He studied her from head to boots. Her mouth curved into a smile.

  “They asked if I might be pregnant. I had to say there is a chance.”

  He stared at her. “What did—did you say—pregnant? A baby?”

  She took his face in her hands. “Yes, there is a possibility I, we are going to have a baby.”

  “Oh, boy. What do I do?” Allan caught her hands and held them. “Do you need to go to the hospital?”

  “They suggested I should see my doctor when I get home. And take one of those home-pregnancy tests.”

  “Let’s go right now,” he urged excitedly.

  She laughed. “No, I’m fine and the baby will be too. I know several barrel riders who have ridden when with child.”

  “No, I think we should go to the emergency room.”

  Giggling, she kissed him. “We can go after the competition, I promise. But you could get a pregnancy test if you want to know before then.”

  “I love you, Rosalind. We’ll wait.” He hugged her.

  “Now that we have that settled, what time is my go-around?”

  “Ten, and it’s only eight-thirty. We would have time,” he coaxed, wanting to see the confirmation, and not just a verbal affirmation.

  “No, we won’t have time for a run to the hospital. Is Dawn okay?”

  He saw the group had given them some privacy. “Walt stayed with her. Oh my God, I can’t believe it.”

  “Shhh, slow down, cowboy,” she whispered.

  Rosalind put her hand on his arm. He reached out and placed his palm on her belly.

  “Do you need to change or something?”

  “My shirt has a tear.” Rosalind pointed at it. “I have another in the trailer, a red one.”

  “I’ll get it and meet you at Dawn’s stall.”

  “Thanks.”

  She walked toward the barn, joined by her friends. Allan studied the sway of her hips, amused his earlier suspicions had been confirmed.

 
Then the realization he was going to be a father settled in.

  Rosalind forced her arms to stay at her sides instead of cradling her stomach. She suspected Allan watched her every move. She answered questions from David and Joe, but when she was alone in the safety of the shadows of the barn, she touched her belly and debated if she should go to the hospital.

  The question the medics had asked about being pregnant had left her speechless. The morning sickness, being tired, and the soreness of her breasts all made sense. They’d phoned in to the doctor on call. He’d confirmed she needed to be seen and couldn’t tell her anything without a test.

  Holy mud pies. I’m going to be a mom.

  In a daze she neared Dawn’s temporary home. She blinked. Several rodeo people clustered around Walt.

  “Was she hurt?”

  “Her husband kicked Tom’s ass?”

  “Who’d have thought he’d do something so evil?”

  She spotted Alisa’s signature white hat and black hair. As she approached the stall, the group backed away and dispersed, except Alisa. Even though they were rivals, it had never been a hostile competition. Their friendship came first in an odd sort of way.

  “Hi, did you come to check out the next World Champion?” Rosalind asked and halted next to Alisa whose surprised expression gave her the advantage in their word game.

  “As a matter of fact, no,” Alisa chortled and they hugged. “I came to see you. Craziness, Tom Clark being such a douche bag. I told you he was no good.”

  “That’s why Sam despised him,” Rosalind replied.

  Alisa touched her arm. “Are you okay?”

  “A handful of bruises, nothing to worry about. I’ve gotten worse from falling.”

  “I hear ya.” Alisa leaned in. “Wanted to check out the hunk you married. Word is he’s a looker.”

  Rosalind nodded. “He should be here soon. Keep your hands off.”

  “As if I would do anything.” Alisa grinned and raised her palms in a teasing jest. “My, my. Does he have a brother?”

  Rosalind didn’t bother turning. She could tell by her friend’s reaction who was coming.

  “Here you go.” Allan handed her the shirt. “Anything else I can do?”

  Alisa’s eyes widened at the sight of Allan. Rosalind coughed in an effort to hide her laughter.

  “Hi, I’m Alisa,” she said softly.

  “You’re the rider who thinks she can beat my wife,” Allan replied and held out his hand.

  “He’s a keeper, Rosalind.” Alisa shook his hand. “You’ll be chasing my tail this go around. See ya later.”

  She nodded and watched Alisa squeeze Allan’s butt when she passed him. He wobbled.

  “Very interesting, your so-called friend.” Allan rubbed his ass. “Are all cowgirls this friendly?”

  “Only to the ones they like. Come on City Boy, time to see me in action.”

  Rosalind stepped into the stall, away from prying eyes, and took off her shirt. She held out a hand for the new one.

  “Rosalind, people—um, men can see you.”

  “They know I’m off limits. Hurry up, I don’t have time for modesty.” She chuckled. “I have to lead Dawn to the practice pen for a warm-up.”

  He tossed over the shirt. Aware of his eyes on her, she turned and fastened the snaps. It fit snug against her breasts.

  I hope it stays closed.

  She led Dawn to the practice pen. Two other riders were there, running the courses. They motioned for her to go ahead. Hitching her foot into the stirrup, she lifted herself onto Dawn, ran the clover course twice, and stopped next to Walt.

  “The dirt is too sandy,” she cautioned. “It’s not like yesterday.”

  “Be careful. You don’t have to have the best time this go around. Save it for tomorrow.” Walt took hold of the bridle.

  Irritated by his suggestion, she bit down on her lower lip. “I never hold back.”

  “Go to the alley.” Walt shook his head. “Dawn is loose enough.”

  Seeing the effect her harsh words had on him, she lowered her guard. Walt was only instructing, not judging her. “Sorry, I don’t know why I snapped at you.”

  “No need to apologize. Go show them how it’s done.”

  “Thanks,” she replied and rode Dawn to the center entrance. Alisa was already in position.

  “Your man is something else, Rosalind,” Alisa raved. “How did you find him?”

  “Don’t have enough time, maybe later.” Rosalind winked and added, “It’s you and me.”

  “Yes, it is. May the best flirt win.” Alisa nudged her black bay colt to the alley.

  The announcer introduced Alisa and she took off. Rosalind moved Dawn to the right to get a better look at her run. Her friend maneuvered the horse with expertise. The colt faltered, slicing barrel one. They recovered and hit the pocket on the other two.

  I’m in trouble. She’s in top form for this go around.

  Rosalind held her breath and peered at the clock.

  “Sixteen-point-twenty, for our very own Alisa Highland.”

  The crowd went wild and spooked Dawn.

  “Whoa, girl.” Walt gripped Dawn’s bridle and petted her neck.

  Rosalind looked down at him. “Alisa had a great ride. I need to buy hundredths of seconds to take the win away from her. Where are Allan and Joe?”

  “They went to the stands to watch. Don’t push Dawn too hard. Save it for tomorrow,” Walt advised her.

  The announcer broke in. “Our next racer is Rosalind Smith. She stands in first after one go around. Let’s welcome her to the gate.”

  Applause rang through the area.

  “Go!”

  Rosalind pressed her legs into Dawn’s flanks and instead of going forward, she sidestepped.

  “Easy, easy, girl,” she yelled. Dawn straightened.

  “Go! Come on girl, go!”

  They went from zero to fast in one second, passing the electric eye starting the clock. The first barrel came and they pocketed it. The second one, Dawn rated and Rosalind misjudged the turn, leaning too far. Her boot slipped from the stirrup.

  Crap.

  Heart in her throat, pulse pounding, they headed to the final barrel. She replaced her boot and cleared it. Using a firm grip on the reins, she urged Dawn to the line.

  “Sixteen-point-thirty-one, for Rosalind Smith.”

  “Whoa!” She jumped off Dawn when the mare stopped. Walt, Joe, and Allan rushed to her.

  “Shit, I messed up. Besides the bad start, I leaned too far and my boot came out.”

  Rosalind kicked at the dirt, took off her hat, and threw it to the ground. Alisa was now ahead of her.

  “It’s okay.” Allan placed his hand on her shoulder. She shrugged it off.

  “No, it’s not. I have to win this. If I do, people will know I can train a winner. It’s a critical part of my plan.”

  Walt reached for the reins. “I’ll brush Dawn and do her cooldown. You could use one too, missy.”

  She hesitated for a split second, gave up, then turned and walked right into Alisa. “Sorry.”

  “No problem. I wish it had been your hubby.”

  “You have a one track mind, girl,” Rosalind remarked with a smile.

  “I do, don’t I? Hey, too bad on the second barrel.” Alisa’s gaze followed Dawn being led away by Walt. “She’s a beautiful horse.”

  “Thanks. I guess my mind wasn’t fully focused on the ride.”

  “Can’t blame you,” Alisa noted with a nod. “Guess we’ll have to wait until tomorrow to see who’s best.”

  “You’re funny, Alisa. I let you take first place today. Wanted to give everyone a show.”

  They stood facing each other, the ver
bal confrontation only a smoke screen. Rosalind knew Alisa wanted this win as much as she did. “Wanna get a beer at Toby Keith’s?”

  Alisa’s request threw her for a loop. The girl could go to the extreme in a single breath. “Toby’s sounds interesting, but I have to decline.”

  “Oh, what a shame, I wanted to dance with your hubby.” Alisa laughed.

  Rosalind let Alisa’s banter cool her down. Alisa had been the number one reason Sam hadn’t let her go out after an event. They’d gotten in too much trouble partying after their competitions.

  “Your run was good. Your colt has matured since Vegas,” Rosalind mused.

  “Thanks. I’m hoping to use him as a stud. That’s why I’m goin’ to beat you.” Alisa smirked.

  “Keep hoping. This is my year.”

  They chuckled together. Alisa moved away but not before giving Allan a wink, who’d remained quiet during the exchange.

  He cleared his throat and gave her an innocent look. “What do we do now?”

  Rosalind went to him and kissed his sexy mouth. “Sorry for my temper. I’ve worked hard for this and with everything that happened, I guess it got to me.”

  “It’s expected. What you need is a quiet afternoon. I’m certain I can find a five-star restaurant to take you to. Once we’ve confirmed—”

  “Allan, stop. Let’s keep it a secret for now. Besides, you don’t have to impress me.”

  “Okay, our first stop will be the hospital.”

  “Yes, I know.” She collected her hat, brushed it against her jeans, and they walked out of the arena. She felt his hand pressed in the small of her back and smiled at the sign of ownership.

  Time to find out what fate has in store for us.

  Chapter 41

  Not again.

  Rosalind clasped her hands over her abdomen and rolled from the comfort of Allan’s arms. She moaned and ran to the bathroom as the alarm clock rang.