“Why? Sounds like you were having fun.”
He grinned. “Not exactly. Most of the time, I was in a hospital. It’s amazing what you can learn about yourself when there’s no distraction other than your own thoughts.”
“What in the world happened? Jared, I’ve always believed there isn’t a horse alive that could put you on the ground without going down first. I didn’t hear a word about an accident or that you were injured. You know how it is, accidents are whispered between riders like wildfire.”
“It wasn’t a horse. Small car, drunk driver, and nowhere to get out of the other guy’s way. I was in my car with the top down cruising through the mountains on one of those twisty little roads and met another car, a much larger one. It swerved, rammed into me. The driver was so drunk he rolled out and walked away. Unfortunately, I was airlifted to the hospital. When I was stable enough, they sent me back to London for more treatment.”
“Why didn’t they send you to the States?”
“Because I lived in England, had established my home there, and worked just outside the city. They assumed my family was close by.”
“I had no idea.”
“No one did. I was in a pretty bad shape. After my bones healed, I had to learn to walk all over again. Then I had to find out if I could ride.”
“How did you keep it all out of the news? You are and were considerably well known.”
“Bribery mostly. Promised an exclusive to the press. The hospital staff was good about insuring my privacy. They also contacted my folks at Timberline. Within a day, they flew over to be with me.”
“I wish I’d known. I should have.”
“It’s not a surprise, love. Remember the year you spent on contract for Prince Hamid? That’s about the time when all this happened. You were a long way from England, as I recall.”
“Yeah, but they get newspapers in Egypt. I just can’t believe Fionola didn’t tell me.”
“Oh, that’s easy.” His wonderful cobalt eyes smiled at her frown. “I asked her not to.”
For once, when she stepped back to glare at him, he enjoyed it. “Shall we have dessert, love? Then I have these tickets for a concert…”
****
Tyndal was in the arena schooling Bahadur when Fionola and Jared joined her. Trying to keep the rambunctious colt in line was as hard as keeping her heart in line. The thing wanted to sing and dance. Maybe the Tango, or something like that. Pink-tipped clouds floated in the sky. Flowers she’d never noticed before bloomed in mass profusion in front of the barns.
“Well, it looks as if you had a wonderful time.” Fionola drew her close for a hug. “I’d hoped you would. So tell me, what all did you do?”
Tyndal smiled up at Jared. “It was fantastic. Dinner on a rooftop, if you can imagine. Jared planned it so we had the whole place to ourselves. Then we went to a concert, we listened to Mozart and Brahms. We walked in the moonlight and held hands like a couple of kids. And then we topped off the whole evening with an ice cream sundae. Chocolate. Thank you so much for the pearls, Fee. I love them. I feel like I’ve been smiling all morning. My cheeks hurt.”
“It sounds like you two are finding your way. That’s good.” Fionola smiled in a way that caught Tyndal’s eye.
“Fee, exactly what are you thinking? I can tell when you’re up to something. And another thing, since I know you so well, I know you’d do whatever you could to—”
“Hush, child. I’m not thinking of orange blossoms or wedding dresses. I’m simply pleased you’re having a romance.”
“Romance? What romance? Who’s having a romance?” In a move that made her head spin, Tyndal went from feeding Bahadur carrot pieces to being in Jared’s arms. Then the world stopped as he pulled her in for a kiss that left her breathless, and wishing for more. Not that she was ready to tell him that. She laughed instead.
“Get off me, you overgrown ape. You smell like a horse.”
His smile broadened as she wrinkled up her nose and pushed him away.
“Well, surprise me how that could happen on a horse farm. I worked Pyralis first thing this morning and then the guy you hired to ride the four-year-old showed up. I wanted to see what he could do.”
“What did you think?”
“Let’s say he has some work to do on a few skills. But he’s all right.” Jared brushed a bit of sawdust off of Tyndal’s shirt. “Then my dad’s friend showed up.” Jared shook his head. “The poor guy’s got decent intentions, he wants to ride and be good at it. But he can’t get the difference between working with an animal and being in control. I watched him frustrate the horse until he managed to get himself pitched straight into the dirt. I have to say, I agreed with the horse.”
“So, what did you do?”
“Got him up, made sure he was okay. Talked to him a while. He left the horse here. He said he’ll think about it and let me know what he decides.” Jared shrugged. “After he took off, I worked with one of your horses, mostly because I wanted to know firsthand what it was like to ride one you’d finished. Somewhere along the way, I’ve heard you’re supposed to be good.”
“Imagine that. And?”
“I was impressed. It’s no wonder you complain about the riders.”
Nodding, Tyndal reached over to straighten his collar.
“Dear ones, as much as I hate to interrupt this lovely interlude, though I think how you two cluck and coo at one another is highly entertaining”—Fionola laughed—“but I have some things to finish. Seth is meeting me in my office in an hour and I want both of you to join us. Shall we say around two?”
“Yes’m. We’ll be there. Front and center,” Jared replied.
As Fionola left, he grinned, his eyes on Tyndal. “She didn’t say we couldn’t do something else in the meantime.”
“What do you have in mind?”
“Oh, not much. Just a little of this.” He pulled her into his arms. “And that.” His mouth lowered to hers, wrapped them both in heat and taste.
Chapter Six
Jared stood back as Fee opened the meeting. He had some thoughts of his own, but he wanted to hear Fionola’s opinions before he opened his mouth. She had years more experience with the Classic.
“The reason I asked you to join me,” Fionola said, “is because I’m worried. The Classic is upon us, and to be honest, I feel overwhelmed.” The reasons, she ticked off on her fingers. “As early as this morning these issues were brought to my attention: housing, and the shortage thereof. For horses and people. Then, the demand for additional tickets. And what to do about ticket scalpers. Next there’s the need for a more visible veterinary presence. Somebody’s horse went lame and they couldn’t find a vet. And finally, the Symphony. It’s sold out. But still people call.”
She rounded on Jared. “This entire event, especially the Symphony, is supposed to be for charity. But, Jared, the press. How you lived with cameras stuck in your face every day is beyond me. Can you do anything about them?”
“Tar and feathers? A vat of hot oil? I don’t know, Fee. On the spur of the moment, that’s about the best I can offer. But I’m up for suggestions.”
Tyndal grinned, held up her hand.
“What, child?”
“I’ve made a game out of finding ways to get through a whole day without being recognized. Nobody seems too interested in a rumpled and shabby barn attendant.”
Fionola shook her head, but Jared could see how her eyes danced. He doubted he’d see Fionola Morgan in any of the outfits Tyndal put together.
“Seth,” she asked, “are your young vets in place? Do they have what they need?”
“They do, Fee. You don’t need to worry about our side. I don’t know why that person you mentioned complained. We have a kiosk in each barn and tents near the main arena.” He shrugged. “I’ll ask around, see if anyone knows about this, but the only serious incident I’m aware of was with a gelding in Barn Two that came up with an eye infection. I was called and resolved the situation.”
&nb
sp; “Okay, that explains my confusion. Now, Tyndal, what’s happening with the barns? Where are we on stabling?”
“We’re full. I have one more horse coming for the very last reserved space and then, that’s it. I’ll send everyone else up to the University. We’re using their barns and training arenas. I’ve requested additional housing for owners and riders. If there’s a room in the dorms that students aren’t using, we’ll take whatever they have. Apparently the lodging facilities in this whole area are booked.”
“That’s what I’ve heard too.” Fionola rubbed her temples. “Let’s delegate those requests to the Chamber. They’ve asked for a way to have a larger presence in working with the Classic. I think this will be their opportunity.”
“Are the judges,” Jared asked, “staying here? I’ve recognized a few faces among the crowd.”
“No,” Fee said. “They’re all at the new bed and breakfast in town. We thought it best if they stayed off the premises in neutral territory.” Fionola coughed and reached for a glass of water.
“Wise move.” Jared crossed to the front of the room. “You need to rest, Fee. We’ve got a little time yet before opening ceremonies. I’d like it if you wouldn’t worry. The teams working on this know their business. They do it every year. And they do it well.” He turned to Seth. “Can you take her for a drive, or at least give her a break away from here? And see she eats something?”
“You’re trying to manage me, Jared Grant. I’m not too sure I appreciate it,” Fee grumbled, leveling her eyes to his.
“I’m not trying, Fionola Morgan, I am managing you. Because I know I wouldn’t appreciate something happening to you. So there.” He kissed her on the cheek. “Do this for me, love.”
“Don’t worry, son. She will.” Seth stood, held out his hand. “Fee?”
“But the Chamber? And I want to go up to the school…”
“We’ll handle it. Go.” Jared grinned at Tyndal after they’d gone. “That’s one stubborn woman.”
“I hear it runs in the family.”
****
For Tyndal, it was time-consuming and annoying to be asked to make time for the press and to answer questions when so much else that was more important, needed her attention. Like Bahadur. She had to figure how to help him forget about the camera flashes. They scared him.
Bhetami needed work on a complex half pass.
That would happen right after she ordered tents for the reporters. It seemed the hot August sun was a bit warm for their thin skins. Perhaps God would be merciful and send a plague. It was a thought anyway. Her smile was a little mean.
Then there was Jared.
So much between them had changed. So much felt wonderfully right.
He was her first thought every morning and her last at night. It was a clue to her state of mind that she wanted to believe in the dream of every love story, the one about the couple living happily ever after. He wasn’t Prince Charming. He was a real man with real faults. But she was coming to trust he meant it when he said he loved her.
That was more than enough for her. She understood now what Fee meant when she said a person made a choice. A choice to love. Or not. Tyndal knew she wanted the love. Wanted the give and take, and wanted to accept the risk of being known. Any question she asked, he answered. He said he didn’t believe in secrets, that if she wanted to know something, all she had to do was ask. That felt so safe and so simple. Love seemed so effortless. All the fear she’d felt seemed so silly.
She’d tell him so next time she had an opportunity. The evening in Denver was, as Fionola predicted, their last chance for any significant time together. But they’d had that night. Tyndal smiled.
“Stars in your eyes,” Jared had said, “I see stars in your eyes, love.” Didn’t he know she didn’t need stars? Just something true and real, something she could count on. Lean on, if needed. She sat at her desk with her chin in her hands, her eyes closed, lost in a dream, and swamped with wants and needs.
An interrupted dream when Jared burst through her office door like a fox chased by hounds. She looked up from her desk, surprised.
“You could have knocked.”
“You’re right, I could have.” Jared grinned. “Hi, love. I needed to see you. I have exactly five minutes before another interview and I intend to use every second.” Locking the door, he closed the blinds, and came around the desk, not bothering with more words. He drew her in close, and instead of the wild kiss she’d prepared for, he simply held her.
“How is it, love, that you have become so vital, so essential to me? How are you holding up?”
“I’m holding. The only positive thing I can say is I’m not in jail. Even with constant temptation, I haven’t killed anyone yet. And you?”
“About the same. Missing you.”
“It’s been crazy today.”
“Tell me about it. I’ve prayed for a flood.”
“Well, I asked for the plague.” She touched his face, then pulled his head down toward hers, and laid her lips softly on his. “When this is over, it’ll be us again. I’m looking forward to that.”
“Did you hear where Seth took Fee yesterday?”
“No. I’m playing chicken with the reporters, and haven’t been out of my office all morning.”
“I thought it was great.” Jared grinned. “Seth called Greg and the plane was available. They flew out to a hot springs just north of Yellowstone. Said they soaked half the day in the hot mineral water. Apparently Fee fell asleep in one of the lounges by the pool. Later on, they had a wonderful dinner at the restaurant that’s part of the resort. By then, nobody wanted to come home, so they stayed overnight. Greg said even he took time for a soak after he hiked up the mountain behind the resort. Said he found a pond he’d like to fish one day. He also said he saw a bear poking around. As you’d expect, Fee had everyone up and heading home by first light.”
“Figures. Did you get the name of the place? Sounds like heaven.”
He laughed. “I did. Chico Hot Springs. I made reservations for us right after this thing’s done.”
“If we live so long.” Hearing footsteps in the hallway, Tyndal sighed. “It sounds like you’ve been found.”
“They’re like a pack of bloodhounds. But this one may not be so bad, I hope. The only reason I accepted the interview is because it’s not about me. The director wanted it to take place in one of the barns—said it would add realism. The focus is on the tack, the care and training of the horses, about what makes these horses different—show horses, jumpers, the athletes versus the horses that stand around in a pasture all week. It has the possibility of being interesting. We’ll see.” He crossed to her windows, peeped out. Groaned.
“You’ll be at Fionola’s tonight for her little soirée with the Senator?” Jared crossed to Tyndal, and tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “I had no idea he was such a horseman.” Bending his head, he pressed small kisses across her lips.
“Fee gave me no choice about my attendance, and as far as our Senator is concerned, the only thing he knows about a horse is what his staff gave him to read on his way here. But he’s a nice sort once you get past all the pomp and ceremony. His wife has a Great Dane. And she’ll be there.”
“The dog or the wife?” Jared grimaced. “Fee said salmon mousse is on the menu and I hate that stuff. Maybe you can bring Jake. I even called Fionola’s chef and begged for another option. Come to find out, it’s the Senator’s favorite.”
“But you’ll look marvelous in your tux as you suffer for the cause so gallantly.”
“Be quiet. I’m busy here.” Lightly he bit her lower lip, teased her mouth with his. She pulled back, laughing. “But you might feel better knowing I talked Fee into adding a bison filet.”
“I knew there was a reason why I love you. But honestly, it’s enough for me that you’ll be there.”
“Jared…” Tyndal searched his face. “I thought the same thing about you earlier today, that you’re enough for me. I wasn’t
sure how to tell you.”
His eyes darkened, heated at her words. When somebody knocked at the door, they flamed. “I hate reporters,” he swore as his mouth crushed hers.
Over the roar of her heart beating against his, she heard someone, not far from her office yell his name. “Your world calls,” Tyndal murmured against his lips.
“My world is right here.” Jared kissed her hard once more. “Now,” he took a breath, “maybe I can handle a few questions. Thanks.”
“Get out of here.” She laughed and followed him to the door. She locked it before returning to her desk.
Trying to find the press their tents was like everything else. It took longer than expected and when she’d dealt with that, and the almost-constant phone calls, she was hunting something for her pounding head. With any luck, she still hoped to fit a quick workout with Bhetami in before having to clean up and be at Fee’s in time to meet the Senator.
Like a good granddaughter.
Checking the hallway again, she slipped on her latest fashion disaster, an oversized, shapeless camo jacket she’d found at a second-hand store, pulled her hair into a ponytail, and smashed a cap on her head. Satisfied she looked worse than ever, she snuck off for the barns.
When she passed Jared’s office, he was still surrounded by reporters. It appeared he’d shown them around the school, the tack room was on display and he’d pulled wide the double doors that opened into a small arena. The man was so in his element. He had the patience to answer their questions, even personal questions about his life at Morgan’s Walk. He was all charm and that stunning masculinity that had its usual affect on the female members of the press corps. They asked about the riding school, about what it was like to live in the middle of nowhere, as compared to his life in Europe. When they asked if he was seeing anyone, he simply told them that he’d loved one woman most of his life and that his feelings hadn’t changed. Tyndal took a breath, waited for someone to ask the obvious question.
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