Part 37 (1/2)

He was sit ting on the porch swing, listening to the sh.e.l.ls clatter in thewind, when Cynthie joined him, breathless from a run down the stairs. He wrapped an arm around her and she settled against him, reminding him of theway she had slept in his arms.

He cleared his throat.

”You wanted to talk to me about Louie?”

Cynthie was momentarily startled before she remembered her excuse.

”Yes.

Louie. I think I know of someone who can run the ranch, at least until he's

better. ”

Winn nodded.

”I hope so.” He put the swing in motion and felt Cynthie curl her legs up

under herself and snuggle closer. He wondered if she was having any more

luck concentrating on their conversation than he was.

' ”I'm not sure what Louie will want to do when he heals, but it is true that he's been giving both Jeremiah and Peter more responsibilities lately and he might want to cut back some more.”

”Jeremiah could take charge,” Winn suggested. ”I've thought of that, but he and Mary want to get married and I think he'd like to have his own place. I know Mary would.”

Cynthie was quiet for a moment then continued. ”No, I have someone else inmind. He's a good manager, great with figures. He hasn't been around here very long, but I think I know him well enough to trust him.”

Winn felt a touch of jealousy that Cynthie would know of someone he hadn'tmet yet, someone she was planning to bring onto her ranch.

”Does he know anything about cattle?” Winn hoped it sounded likeprofessional interest.

”He's had quite a bit of experience, I understand.” After a moment she added thoughtfully, ”I'm not sure his judgment's quite so good where horses areconcerned, but I have Peter for that.”

Winn was still skeptical. To hear her talk, she'd found a miracle. He warned, ”What about the men? Jeremiah and the others do what Louie says outof respect” -- She interrupted enthusiastically, ”He's a born leader. I've seen him, Winn. He takes charge and people want to follow.”

Winn didn't like to hear her sound so eager. It took a moment to get thenerve to ask, ”Who is this man?”

”You.”

Winn was speechless. He stopped the swing abruptly and Cynthie strained tosee his face in the early, pale light.

”Cynthie.” He shook his head. He couldn't think of what to say to reasonwith her.

She laughed, planting a kiss on his cheek.

”Now don't tell me you've had a better offer.”

”Cynthie,” he repeated.