Cowboy Up

By Arbrillia Willis

Having suffered at the hands of her brutal ex for far too long, restaurateur Indigo Coleman finally decides to make a clean break. She is intent on pulling her tattered life back from the brink and starting over.
However, when a chance meeting with sexy cowboy Matthew Brent leaves Indigo lusty and confused, she’s afraid that pulling her life back together is going to harder than she thought. Although she’s attracted to Matthew, being fresh out of a miserable relationship, she’s afraid to try something new; but soon Matthew’s smile, honey-dipped eyes and, irresistible ways has Indigo reluctantly floating on air.
After sharing an uncharacteristically bold kiss, Indigo is left alone fighting feelings that she’s unsure how to handle, but with her sister, Ellen, egging her on Indigo is forced to admit that the spark she feels for Matthew is more like a flame that has the potential to escalate to a four alarm blaze. Just the thought of Matthew, brings her back to life and she wants to succumb to the overwhelming rush of emotions that he brings to a boil. However, with her ex’s deeds fresh in her mind, she works fervently to suppress them.
The last thing on widowers Matthew Brent mind is falling in love again. After losing his wife to Cancer, he can’t envision himself entrusting another woman with his or his son's heart. Then along comes Indigo, she beautiful, sexy, and a good cook to boot. She’s also tormented by an abusive ex, and when Matthew is forced to intercede during a horrific incident where her ex’s rage is put on display, he can’t help but place his heart—along with every protective bone in his body at her feet. That’s why it hurts so much when he finds out that she’s been hiding something... something so life altering that when he finds out he makes a rash decision that could end up with him on the losing end of Indigo’s love.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Arbrillia Willis
• Release date: Dec 12, 2011
• ISBN: 9781465973719

Arbrillia Willis

Arbrillia Willis is a romance fanatic! Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois she has been happily married for eighteen years. She has four sons(two of which are valiantly serving their country--Go Army!) and one haughty ball of fur named Harley. Arbrillia is currently busy working on her upcoming novel, New Tricks and wearily eyeing a host of unfinished knitting projects. Connect with me online Facebook:http//facebook.com/ Twitter:http//twitter.com/bossyturtlegirl Smashwords:http//smashwords.com/

Book preview

Cowboy Up

By Arbrillia Willis

Smashwords Edition

Copyright 2011 Arbrillia Willis

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CHAPTER ONE

I’m sorry...

Rick’s meaningless words hurt just as much as his fist and body had hurt me earlier. They reverberated, bounced inside my skull until it felt as if I’d scream, but instead I sat silently, my eyes following his erratic pacing.

My hand shook as I wiped at a tear and then probed a loose tooth with the tip of my tongue.

Did you hear me?

I flinched as Rick whipped his face around and snarled; his tone letting me know my lack of response could result in another demeaning incident.

As my eyes found his, I feared all the hatred I felt would be evident and the fighting would start all over again. Clearing my throat, I pulled my torn blouse together; knowing this was the last time I would ever let him put his hands on me and mumbled, I know, baby.

Two months later...

The stranger outside my door wore a battered Stetson and a black tee tucked into jeans that looked worn in all the right places.

Excuse me, Miss, He said, his smile irresistible, my truck went out on me a little ways down the road and I was wondering if I could use your phone?

Although I politely returned his smile, I bit back an oath. I was trying to get to work on time but was running late as usual.

Sure, I was just on my way out so, I paused as the light jacket I’d just shrugged into settled around my shoulders and I slid my feet into a pair of ballet flats. you can use my cell.

I watched in amazement as his handsome cinnamon-hued face scrunched in confusion and he rubbed at the nape of his neck while turning the phone, which looked tiny in his big hands, back and forth.

I don’t have time for this, I thought. Who in this day and age didn’t know how to use a cell phone?

"Gimmie. Holding out a hand to take my cell back, I swore and then led him into the living room. You can use this." As he took the cordless phone from my hand I stood off to the side to give him some privacy while surreptitiously studying him.

He had rich, cinnamon-tinged skin, wide shoulders, a compact body, and muscular legs that filled out his faded Levi’s quite nicely. Releasing a sigh, I reluctantly decided it wouldn’t hurt if I were a tiny bit late.

Lost in my musings, I startled when he thanked me. As he spoke, he took out his wallet. Here’s something for any inconvenience I may have caused you.

"Oh, no. Really, put that back. I said while shoving the crisp bill back his way. I let out a nervous little twitter as our hands met. It was no problem."

With a slight shrug, he replaced his money with a smile and then took a step back. We stood staring awkwardly at each other for a moment before he cleared his throat, dropped his gaze to my candy-apple red ballet slippers, and then brought it back up to my face. Giving me a small nod, he replaced the Stetson he’d removed upon entering and began to back away towards the door.

You can use me— I blurted out, "I mean my phone anytime. Blushing furiously, I swore again before asking, Did I just say what I think I did?"

Yeah. He nodded, his smile threatening to break into a full-blown laugh.

Sorry... I brushed a stray braid behind one ear and grimaced, Now would be a good time for the ground to open up and swallow me.

Still smiling, he gazed at me with eyes the color of warm honey and asked, Over a simple slip of the tongue?

I shrugged my shoulders and watched as he waited a beat and then turned away from me saying, Thanks again...

Not in the least bit worried about being late now, I gazed longingly at his retreating form and asked, "Do you need a lift—hold on a minute okay?" I rummaged through my purse, pulled out my ringing cell, and held a finger up to indicate he wait as he turned back to face me.

Yeah, El... I was just on my way out...Umm...no, never mind, just come on in; I’ll wait. As I spoke, I leaned against the sofa while watching the play of muscles in the cowboy’s thighs as he stepped farther away to give me some privacy. I'm glad you remembered, El. Thank you. As he turned back to me, I quickly transformed the lusty look of longing on my face to an innocent smile while explaining, My sisters on the way so if you could wait a second, I’ll get her settled in before I drop you off.

He removed his Stetson, ran a hand over his low-cut curls, and asked, Are you sure, ‘cause I could walk back to the truck.

Yeah I’m sure. Here, have a seat. I let a hand trail across the coarse fabric of the sofa.

I really appreciate this—

It’s no problem. I cut in.

The cowboy nodded and then took a seat on the edge of the sofa, his hands resting on his knees.

Slightly uncomfortable in the silence that ensued, I spoke, I’m going to put on some music.

Sounds good. He smiled.

Do you like it fast or slow?

He chuckled to himself and rubbed the nape of his neck again.

Grimacing, I pushed play and wondered if every phrase I uttered had to sound like something from a phone sex-line.

My sister gave me this CD. It’s supposed to be really nice. Shrugging my shoulders, I continued, "I haven’t checked it out yet, but—Damn it." I swore as slow sensual music flowed from the stereo’s speakers.

My eyes widened as his heavy-lidded topaz gaze settled on me and I quickly pressed stop and searched for another CD.

Umm… that wasn’t the mood I was looking for, I’m sorry. taking a deep breath, I fanned myself I asked, Is it hot in here because I’m burning up.

I could have sworn the temperature had risen by at least ten degrees at the intimate setting the music had created. His gaze rested on me and I moaned softly.

I’m fine, but are you all right? You look sorta light-headed. Getting to his feet, he closed the distance between us and came to a halt in front of me. Taking my hand, he slowly rubbed my wrist with his thumb.

Wow... glazing into his eyes I whispered, I think I do need to sit down. I took a few unsteady steps and then sat heavily onto the sofa.

Anything I can do to help?

Yeah, strip and then follow me into the bedroom.

No, I’m fine, I said aloud, just a little tired. After taking a moment to make sure I wouldn’t swoon at his feet, I smiled as he held out a hand and pulled me up to face him.

"Indigo!"

The sound of my name barely registered as I found myself inches from him. I stared into his amber-flecked eyes and fought an irresistible urge to link my fingers behind his head, step even further into his space, and kiss him.

Hypnotized, I lowered my gaze to his lips. They were beautiful... just right for long deep kisses that would curl my toes. As I leaned forward, I imagined nipping at his pouty bottom lip until he opened his mouth to me.

"INDY!"

Frowning slightly, I ignored the slight buzzing in my ears and closed my eyes. Feeling him take my hand in his and run one blunt-tipped finger across the inside of my wrist, I opened my eyes again and whispered, Please...

Myriad emotions flickered across his face and I felt vaguely saddened at the one he chose. He released my hand and I watched him close his eyes and then shake his head as if chastising himself, Sorry. he backed away from me and then jerked his thumb towards the door, I think your sisters at the door.  

Huh? Ellen’s at the door? I nodded my head as if answering my own question and then slowly placed the palm of my hand on his chest. I’d wanted to touch him since he walked into the room and the fact that I was doing it now blew my mind. I swayed towards him again and felt his chest under my fingertips. It was warm and firm—I could even feel wiry hairs underneath his t-shirt. I smiled. I wanted to pull his shirt over his arms and kiss his chest. I wanted to—whoa, coming to my senses, I pulled my hand away and hid it in my jacket pocket.

God, what’s wrong with me today?

He smiled in lieu of an answer and kept those sexy eyes trained on me.

Reluctantly glancing over my shoulder at the persistent toll of the doorbell, I licked my lips and asked, I should get that, huh?  

At the minute shrug of his shoulders, I fought not to lose myself as I backed away from him and towards the door.

Pulling it open with a ‘why are you interrupting us’ frown plastered on my face I sighed, Yes, El, what is it? I stepped aside and had to bite my tongue as my sister sauntered past me with her teacup Yorkie stuffed in her tote bag.

My sister Ellen was three years older than me. She was taller, prettier, smarter...the list goes on and on. All she had to do was bat those baby browns and pout and she usually got anything she wanted. Was I jealous? Maybe a tiny bit, but I’d never let that get in the way of loving her.

However, I didn’t love her enough to put up with Rags—her nickname for Lady Raggedy Ann.

The loathing Lady Raggedy Ann and I felt for one another was monumental.

You told me to come on in, so why was I standing outside ringing your doorbell? Ellen asked, as she straightened the bright fuchsia bow perched on Rags tiny head. Still gazing at me, she lazily ran her manicured nails through the terrier’s silky hair and then continued, What were you doing anyway? I’ve been outside for a while.

Nothing. I murmured, as I fought the urge to glance guiltily at my cowboy.

The one raised eyebrow thing she did only increased my feelings of guilt.

Anyhoo, I just stopped by to wish you a Happy Birthday. She paused to give me a peck on the cheek before breaking yet another rule. Ignoring my protest, she lifted Rags out of her tote with a record-breaking number of kisses and then set her on her tiny paws.

Sit Rags, sit. Good girl.

I watched, open-mouthed, as the tiny dog trembled and then proceeded to pee on the carpet.

Ellen...Damn it...

Glancing down, Ellen waved her hand in Rags general direction and then smiled. Awww...Rags had a little accident. Don’t worry about it. I’ll clean it up.

Good, I’ll get the club soda and you can st—

Ignoring me, she glanced around the room and then squealed when she caught sight of the cowboy standing off to the side, Indy, I didn’t know you had company. Ellen sent a saucy wink his way before quickly turning her attention back to me. I was going to take you birthday shopping—I convinced Daddy to let you have the day off—but I can see you’re busy...

I chewed at a thumbnail and stared at her. "Yeah, I am busy and no, not like that. I snapped at her lascivious grin I was just going to drop him off. His truck broke down and I’m taking him to wait for his tow."

As I gazed across the room to smile goofily at him, Ellen snagged my sleeve. Ignoring her, while tossing the cowboy a flirty little wave, I let out a yelp as she grabbed my arm and dragged me, amid the yapping little dog of hers, into the kitchen. We’ll be right back, hon. She threw over her shoulder as we pushed our way through the door.

With the door barely shut behind us, she put her hands on her hips and stared back at me asking, What are you doing?

Huh? As I wondered what had gotten into her, I ran my hands over the sleeves of my cropped fitted blazer and then absentmindedly checked my manicure.

Rolling my eyes at Ellen’s exaggerated sigh, I grabbed my braids, twisted them into a quick ponytail, and then crossed over to the refrigerator to grab a bottle of water. Unscrewing the cap and taking a sip, I eyed the movements of her little dog, who was busy snapping at my tabby, Ms. Twinkle.

Well? Ellen asked, tapping her toe and leave Rags alone, she doesn’t want anything to do with Ms. Twinkie.

It’s Ms. Twinkle and you know it. I huffed.

As fat as that cat is her name should be Ms. Twinkie, looks like she ate enough of them. But we’re not talking about your cat, are we?

Ellen crossed to the door and peeked out before returning to circle me like the interrogator in a bad prison movie. I swore as she flicked my braided ponytail before asking, Do you even know him?

I’m taking him to his truck—not sleeping with him. I took another sip of water before placing the bottle on the kitchen counter. Besides I am capable of making informed decisions on my own. I’ll be alright.

She narrowed her eyes in confusion and asked, What are you talking about? My problem with this is—hold on. She peeked through the sliver in-between the door and door jam. Satisfied she turned her attention back to me. You don’t know him and you’re chauffeuring him all around town? You’ve never seen him before in your life. Sensing the tone in her master’s voice, Rags rushed over, bared her tiny fangs, and began to bark.

Will you shut her up, El? I bared my teeth and growled back, before raising my voice over Rags yelping barks. I’ll be okay. He’s seems like a decent guy.

"Hello...ladies...Indigo? I think I’ll just head out. I don’t want to miss the tow truck." My cowboys disembodied voice reached us from the living room.

Did you hear that? I asked Ellen as she gently nudged Rags off the hem of my jeans with one toe.

Yeah, she said suspiciously. He knows were on to him and now he’s cutting out

Oh God, Ellen, you are a nutcase!

No, just cautious, She bent down to coo at Rags before continuing, "Anyway, if he’s such a great guy, so on the up and up, he shouldn’t mind a little cross-examination.

CHAPTER TWO

The phone in the living room rang and we both ignored it. I glared at Ellen and grabbed the bottled water. Taking a sip, my eyes shot daggers at her as she continued.

I’m going out there to get better acquainted with your cowboy. She said with a sly smile on her face.

Oh no, you’re not. I coolly folded my arms across my chest and then continued, You wouldn’t dare embarrass me like that. I am not sixteen years old and this is not the precursor to a date. I am just giving him a lift.

I suppressed a scream as she rolled her eyes before huffing out the room.

The door swished to a close behind her and I idly wondered if I strangled her would anyone really miss her. Shrugging my shoulders, I glanced down and swore as I noticed Rags—once again attached to the hem of my jeans.

Shaking Ellen’s little nuisance off my hem and watching as she pranced out of the kitchen to join Ellen, I shook my head before angrily pushing through the kitchens swinging doors.

My anger quickly morphed into skepticism as I watched my cowboy lean over Ellen while she pointed out something in a magazine. That interrogation didn’t take long, I thought.

As if noting my presence, my cowboy gazed up at me and smiled. His honey-dipped eyes crinkled at the corners and his mouth turned up in this sexy little smile. Unmindful of anyone else, I sighed and as if in a trance slowly made my way towards him.

"Earth to Indigo—Indy, I’m down here."

Damn it— Ellen was still here. Feeling my face heat, I stopped in my tracks and reluctantly tore my eyes from his and looked down at her. "Yes E, what? What?"

Did you know that Matt here is a black cowboy?

No, I did not know Matt (so that was my cowboy’s name) was a black cowboy and can you believe what he’s doing with your dog. I said in amazement as he first cradled the tiny dog in one huge palm and then set her down gently on the carpeted floor. I watched incredibly, as Rags allowed him to rub her tubby little belly with nary a grumble, growl, or nip.

That’s not fair. I complained, Rags won’t come within two feet of me unless it’s to bite, pee, or growl. That dog cannot stand me.

My cowboy, err...Matt, smiled and then came over to take my hand in his. I resisted the urge to sigh again as he pulled me behind him as he spoke, Maybe she can sense that you’re uncomfortable around her. still with my hand in his, we knelt by Rags and with a few softly spoken words and slow movements he guided my hand as we rubbed Rags tiny belly. We were so close I could feel his body heat, and when he turned to face me, I lost myself in his gaze.

Afraid that he could somehow sense my reaction to him, I pulled my hand from his and then absentmindedly tidied my braid. Smiling nervously at him I rose, my back turned as Ellen continued to talk about some nonsensical thing she’d read in a magazine. Looking up, she asked You okay, Indy?

"Yeah, I’m fine. I just need to get...umm...Matt...to our— I mean— his tow."

He smiled that smile of his again and shook his head, I’m in no hurry, Indigo. Elly let me use her cell, I could have sworn he blushed at his earlier deception, but he continued mischievously, I’ve been meaning to get me one of ‘em but never got around to it. Anyway, I used her cell to check up on the tow. They’re running behind... said they’d be out in an hour or so. He slowly shrugged into his jacket before continuing But, if you two are leaving now I’ll walk out with you. I’ll just head on back to my truck and wait.

Okay. No problem. You ready, El? glad that he’d given me the opportunity to get my sister off my back, I frowned when said sister, gave me the evil eye.

Confused, I turned away from her while forcing a smile for Matthew before asking, Will you excuse us?

I pulled Ellen off the sofa and grimaced as she threw over her shoulder, We’ll be right back.  

~~~~

What’s wrong now? I hissed after I’d shoved through the kitchen doors.

Indigo. Ellen sighed in exasperation while grabbing a yogurt out of