His to Hold (Book 2 Cowboy Lovin' Series)

By Rita Hestand

Jodi Samuels had been raised on the Bar SS Ranch most of her life. At four she'd been adopted by Joseph Samuels after he married her mother. When she fell hopelessly in love with Ty Taylor, a distant nephew of her father's, he shipped her off to college in the east, thinking that would be the end of it.But little did they know. Returning from College though Jodi soon realized that her attraction for Ty hadn't gone away. But too many things had happened since and she could never go back to the same relationship. Ty was like family to her father. But it didn't matter, he had a girl now, and she had a job and apartment in town, so she wouldn't be seeing him that much. So Jodi did the only thing she could do. She squashed all those feelings of love and began a love, hate relationship with Ty. If anyone found out her secret, she'd be out of there for good. As far as her father was concerned, her affair with Ty was over, because Ty was family. Only he didn't know everything. Jodi had a secret she'd kept from both her father and Ty, and she wouldn't be telling it. Ty deserved to know the truth, but she couldn't tell him, it would hurt too much, and no good would come of it in the long run. If her father found out, she'd have to leave.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rita Hestand
• Release date: Aug 30, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370100316

Rita Hestand

Hi friendsI'd like to ask a favor, not just for me but for all writers. PLease when we offer a free book, it would be wonderful if you'd take the time to rate the book. This doesn't take much time out of your day and authors really apreciate your time to do this. I know not everyone wants to sit down and write a review, but rating the book will help as well. And a big thanks to all who do this. You never know how much an author appreciates you taking the time to do this.I finally finished The Car Stalker. Hope you'll check it out. This is the second book in the stalker series. Like I said mystery is much different from romance all though there are elements in romance in my stalker books too. Today I finished an another book in my series of Vets coming home, Better Every Day. This book takes the angle of when family interrupts your plans. When a one-night stand is much more. I love this story as it hits home. So two new books out now and more coming.I'm taking the time to write while confined at home. But lack of seeing people outside, and living alone all the time is not new to me. I've got lots of stories to tell so be on the lookout for my newest releases. You might check out my Searchin g for You Indian romance on Amazon too.There are several new free books for you enjoyment, since your stuck at home. Home you enjoy them.As for a bio, suffice it to say, I'm a Texan tried and true. I have grown children and grandchildren and already some great-grandchildren. I've done multi jobs in my lifetime giving me a variety of experiences to write and talk about. I've done many different kinds of work from Texas Instruments, to City of Garland, to working for the Wylie Independent School District. I've worked for a hat factory, filing insurance claims, secretarial work, to waitress work. My writing reflects my varied background. Another note I've had a in home day care for twenty years too. So when I write about something I have a general knowledge of it too, which is a real bonus for me. Just like my public work, my writing varies too from contemporary to historical, I write romance, thrillers, children's. A lot of people might say gee, that's a lot of different jobs, and it is, but, I've learned from them all, and I use that experience in my writing.I want to thank all the readers over a length of time that have tried some of my books. I hope I've enlightened and entertained you. I hope I've shared some love in this world. Sharing love can't be bad, it's God given.God bless.Other places to see my bookshttps://www.fantasticfiction.com/h/rita-hestand/https://itunes.apple.com/us/author/rita-hestand/id365799219?mt=11www.scriptsforschools.com/rita-hestandhttps://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/search?query=rita%20hestand&fcsearchfield=author

Book preview

His to Hold

His to Hold

(Cowboy Lovin' Series Book Two)

Rita Hestand

Copyright 2018 by Rita Hestand

All Rights Reserved

ISBN# 9781370100316

Cover Design by Sheri McGathy

Smashwords Edition

License Note

This book His to Hold is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebooks may not be resold or given away to other people. Please purchase an additional copy for each person you share with. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it. or it was not purchased for your use only, then you should return it to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of the author.

All characters in this book have no existence outside the imagination of the author and have no relation to anyone bearing the same name or names. Any resemblance to individuals known or unknown to the author are purely coincidental.

Dedication

Gossips can really do a lot of damage, so can keeping secrets. Love is hard enough without dealing with these two factors. Marriages must represent truth, trust, and respect. And a lot of prayers.

God Bless

Rita Hestand

Books in this Series

Broken Hearted

His to Hold

All my Yesterdays

Table of Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Epilogue

About the Author

Rita's Other Books

Chapter One

She slammed on her brakes so hard she nearly hit her head on the windshield, to keep from hitting Ty Taylor, as he stood boldly before her, with an unbuttoned shirt, snug fitting jeans, and a sexy smile. She took a deep quelling breath. God help her! Ty was the last person she wanted to run into now. From his six-foot-three height to his well-muscled arms and long lean legs, he was a sight to behold. His almost black hair rode high, his dark piercing brown eyes surveyed her with interest.

What do you think you're doing, you idiot, I almost hit you! She hollered as she opened her truck door and stepped out into the hot West Texas sun.

Jodi Samuels, as I live and breathe. So, you're back, are you? Ty Taylor drawled. You're about the last person I expected to see!

Her cheeks flushed a bright red, under his hot glance.

She could believe that from the expression on his face.

Jodi stared for just a second too long before she moved and got her suitcase out of the bed of her truck.

I'm…back. She cast her eyes away from him quickly. Don't allow eye contact with Ty! Don't let him fluster you! And God, please tell my heart to stop thundering in my chest!

All done with college now? He asked, as he took her suitcase from her slightly trembling hand. His touch against her hand was like an electrical shock going through her. One she didn't want to entertain, even in a fantasy. Of all the men on the ranch why did Ty always come running to help her? After four long years of college, and vet school at night, she thought the magnetism between them would have cooled. But it hadn't, at least not on her side it hadn't. Probably never would. Just something she had to live with, she squashed the idea to the back of her mind. She was drawn to him, and she hated her inability to control that magnetism. The last thing she needed was to get tangled up with Ty Taylor again, the foreman of her dad's huge ranch, and her stepdad's nephew.

His no nonsense approach sent a silent message that she received easily enough. But the underlying currents sent another message.

Yes, all done. She affirmed keeping her voice steady.

What are you doing back here, I thought you'd have one of those fancy jobs in Dallas or Houston once you finished college. He asked giving her a quick once over.

He certainly hadn't managed to keep the bitterness out of his tone. He had every right to be bitter. He knew nothing of what had happened that night after her father had caught them in bed together. And he'd never know, she vowed silently.

Ty, She called his name out quietly. I am hot, tired, and all I want is to cool off and rest a bit after the long trip home, if you don't mind. I'm just not up to a skirmish right now, okay?

Suits me. He muttered thickly. I'm not exactly up to a skirmish, myself. You look great Jodi.

Caught in her own vulnerable emotions, she missed the spark of interest in his eyes.

Jodi had never been the prettiest girl in town. She had long straight blonde hair, and dark blue eyes that were shaded by rather long lashes. According to herself, she was quite an unremarkable young woman. Ty could have his pick of women, she knew that, as handsome as he was. He could have been a model for Ranch Magazine, if he'd wanted. He was irresistible, especially with that lethal smile of his. But right now, there were no smiles. But his mere nearness overwhelmed her, as always.

Manners, she had to use a certain amount of manners. Thanks, for the help.

He nodded, his gaze assessing her boldly.

They went inside, and she was greeted by the housekeeper, Maria. Sweet Jesus you are home again, so good to see you my little pet.

Sunshine broke across Jodi's face now and changed the atmosphere in the house. Good to see you again, Maria. She hugged her tightly.

Come, you must taste my chili, I want to know if it's too hot. Maria took her hand and led her into the kitchen, then she peaked her head around the corner, Ty, put Miss Jodi's things in her room for her.

Yeah, sure. Ty disappeared down the long hallway.

Oh, it is good you are home. Your father has been in an uproar for three days, waiting for you to get home. She told her.

Yeah, I'm sure he's anxious to see me. Jodi firmed her lips. She felt like a bucket of ice had been pitched at her. Wake up, you are home!

Taste this, tell me if it's too hot?

Jodi sampled the chili and nodded, Hmm…. It's just right, like I remember.

When Maria saw her expression, she shook her head. I'm so glad you are home. She grabbed her to her and hugged her with all her might. You look better than ever Jodi.

Thanks Maria. I hope I haven't made a mistake by coming home. She muttered under her breath.

You are worried your father won't be glad?

It crossed my mind. Jodi faltered. A sixth sense warned her of impending doom. Congested with doubts and fears of her own homecoming, the need to flee hit her like a snakebite.

But it has been four long years. He must be happy to have you home again. You’re his only daughter. Maria's eyes centered on her doubtful look.

Well, we will see. Jodi couldn't keep the sarcasm mixed with hurt from her voice. Her mixed emotions about seeing her father again had her a nervous wreck.

It has been four long years, and you were still a child when you left, he can't still be mad about that.

Don't bet on it, Maria. Jodi warned her. I've missed you and your chili. She sent her a sweet smile.

Since Jodi's mother left, Maria had been like a second mother to her. She loved her, and Maria loved her right back.

Jodi's glance swept over Maria, appreciating the sweet round face that smiled at her so. Maria was a handsome Mexican woman who had been with her family since she was a little girl. And she was probably the only one who would greet her like this.

Ty came back in the kitchen and told Maria he was heading out to the north pasture.

Si, I will tell the boss.

Ty gave Jodi a quick assessing glance, Welcome home, Jodi. He said, his eyes capturing hers for once.

Jodi's heart thundered from that look. Just like years ago, she still quivered from the soft sounds of his voice.

There was something in that expression, but she couldn't quite nail it.

The boss, that was her father. That was what everyone called Henry Carter Samuels. Even her. He didn't like the tag of father, daddy, or Pa. No, he was the boss, and everyone knew it at the Bar SS. Jodi thought it an empty, and cold title for anyone. Secretly she hated it.

She looked around the kitchen and smiled. You haven't changed a thing. Still got those lovely roosters everywhere.

I know, and it does need changing too, just don't have the time. I cook for the boys in the bunkhouse too, you see. Lots of cooking!

Well, Maria, you've certainly got your hands full with that. Look, I'm not staying here, I have an apartment in town and an office too.

Madre Mia, not staying here? Maria looked worried now. Have you told your father?

No, right now, I just want a bath and a little rest, I'm tired. She explained.

Of course. Want me to draw your bath? Maria asked with a twinkle in her eye.

No, I'm a grown woman now, Maria. I can do for myself. But thanks anyway. It is good to see you. I've missed you. She started to leave the kitchen but turned to look at Maria, really look. Thank you for the welcome home, and all you've done for me over the years.

Maria looked a bit startled, then came to hug her to her, and kiss her on the cheek. It was a pleasure. You are more beautiful than ever, Jodi. Tell me, have you found a man of your own, yet?

To tell the truth, I haven't been looking for a man. Been studying mostly. But I am happy. Jodi smiled at her. Very happy that I finally passed and can start a career.

I can see that in your face. Tell me all about your big plans now that you are a graduate.

Not huge plans, really. I'm going to be working with Colin Mitchell here, I'll be his assistant vet. That's why I'm here, mostly. He wants to retire, and I will take over his business when he does.

Oh, that sounds exciting. Colin is a good man.

He's the best vet in Texas.

Si, when will he retire?

Soon, I'll be taking over his business for him, it will be an easy transition. I'm feeling good about it. Colin is getting up in age and hasn't had the chance to enjoy life like he should. But this will give me time to get used to the business and the customers time to get used to me. Jodi smiled.

You were always good with the animals.

I thought I'd spend the weekend here and move into town first of the week. Think that will be alright?

But why you not stay here, this is your home, Jodi?

I have been told, and I do believe that you can't go home once you grow up. You can visit, and enjoy it, but not live there.

Oh but…

Jodi looked her in the eye. You know it as well as I do. But I did want to come home for a bit and maybe make peace. After all, working in the same area as the boss, I need to try to get along with him, if I can. I'm sure the boss is one of Colin's best customers.

I will pray that you will be able to make peace with him. I know how hard it was on you before. But surely, he can't still be mad about you and Ty. After all, Ty has a girl now…. And you are not kin to Ty Taylor in any way. I don't know why he insists you are. What you did was natural, it was love.

Well, only you believe that. Jodi tried her best not to react to the news that Ty had a girl now. It was terribly hard to come home and face all the things she'd done in the past. But she was grown now, an adult and she could handle whatever her father dished out. She'd had four years of separation from this place and the people on the ranch. She hoped she could put it behind her. She'd hoped she had grown as a person and could hold up her end of it.

While Maria finished preparing the evening meal, she went to take a bath.

She heard her father when he came in. That hadn't changed, he bellowed loudly for Maria and tension spread through Jodi like wildfire. Why did she let that booming bear voice of his scare her? She silently scolded herself for worrying about this. She and Ty were through and her father should be happy about that.

But what Maria had said dawned on her now, he had a girlfriend. She should be happy for him, but something inside her curled up and died from the news. All the way home she had contemplated how she would react if Ty had married or found someone new. She told herself he had every right to, and to expect it. It didn't make it easier. But it spilled out of Maria so naturally and sent a shockwave of reactions through Jodi.

Why?

Brought back to the present, she heard her father talking. Where is she? He thundered when Maria brought him a big glass of iced tea and set it beside him in his easy chair.

She's taking a bath, she said she was very tired from her trip. Maria told him.

How can anyone be tired, when all they are doing is sitting in a car.

Please do not fuss at her. She hasn't been home in four years. Can we not have peace for at least a night. Maria asked.

You are worse than a nagging wife Maria. But I suppose you have a point. Still, I've got to set some rules, Maria. I can't have her acting like she did before.

But senor Ty has a woman now, and your daughter seems very happy, she has a job.

A job? What job?

I will let her tell you… Maria scampered away. Dinner will be ready in thirty minutes. She announced quietly.

Yes, yes… he fumed and opened the paper.

A job! He muttered loudly.

Just from the sound of his voice, she knew he wasn't happy she was home. Far from it.

Jodi stepped out of the bathtub and got dressed. She put on a cotton dress and after looking in the mirror at herself, she sighed. She never considered herself pretty. She wasn't ugly, she just didn't have the glamor her mother had. Nor the raving beauty some of her friends had. Squaring her shoulders, she walked into the living room where her father was.

Hello boss, She said lowly.

Well, aren't you a breath of fresh air. You look…. like a real lady now, Jodi. He gave her a once over glance, strangely approving.

Do I?

I like the dress, nice touch. So, you ready to move back home now? He asked.

Uh…. I guess we should discuss that.

Discuss it?

Yes father, you see, I won't be moving home. I've got an apartment in town. I thought I'd spend the weekend with you, and then move into my apartment. I'm an adult now, and been on my own a while, so an apartment is a good idea. And Monday morning I'm starting work with Colin Mitchell. She announced.

An apartment! He boomed as she knew he would. Now listen here girlie, I won't have that. I know why you did this. But it won't work Jodi. I told you long ago you keep your distance from my men. I meant it.

Not your men, just Ty. And for your information we do not have the same blood. He's your relative, not mine. You adopted me, if you remember, and you didn't conceive me. But to put your mind at ease, I got an apartment in town close to work. I came home to visit you and tell you about it. She explained. I'd hoped you'd be happy for me. I'm starting a brand-new life now and I'm looking forward to the chance to learn from Colin. You put me through college and vet school. Now, it's time for me to stand on my own.

I won't have it. Haven't you grown up enough to stay away from Ty Taylor on your own. Can't I trust you now? I had hoped things had changed. He's got a girlfriend, you know.

This isn't about Ty. She shot him an incredulous glance. It's about me. And I think that's great that he has a girlfriend, I'm glad for him. It's been four years. I expected him to have a wife by now. I've changed too, boss. The only time I'll be on your property is to nurse sick animals. And just so you know, I have grown up.

Well you look grown up, but I'm not sure about that.

I don't know what I can do to convince you. She said, not looking directly at him.

How come you are working with Colin? He demanded.

She sat on the brown leather couch, that had been broken in like a good saddle. He wrote to me and asked if I'd be interested. Said he wants to retire in a couple of years and if I'd come out and help him, get used to his customers and his business, that I could take it over in a couple of years. I thought it an opportunity I couldn't pass up. We both know he's the best vet in Texas. Besides, it would take five or more years to build up a clientele of my own.

"I told you I'd give you the money to start