The Bronc Rider's Baby. Judy Duarte

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       Chapter Two

      Nate followed Anna outside and onto the porch, where Gilbert Henry and Raul Santiago sat in their rockers. The creaks they were making as they swayed back and forth in their chairs slowed to a stop, their attention undoubtedly captured by the attractive social worker.

      It was no secret around here that, back in the day, both of the retired cowboys had been ladies’ men. Before the accident, Nate had been one, too. But not anymore. Even if he’d adapted to the life changes he’d been forced to make—the dashed dreams and altered career path—there was a five-pound two-ounce change that had turned him from a carefree bachelor to a man dead set on becoming a good father—or at least one that was adequate.

      He just hoped that Ms. Reynolds—or rather Anna—realized how hard he was trying.

      While he was determined to keep the attractive social worker in a professional light, it was a struggle. Every time he looked at her, he focused on her appearance. And now, as they stepped off the porch, he couldn’t seem to keep his eyes off the gentle sway of her hips or the way that long blond hair swished and shimmered down her back.

      He didn’t need to glance at Gil or Raul to know what they were thinking. He sensed their interest and imagined they were sporting grins and winking at each other. He was also prepared for the ribbing he’d get, as well as the advice they’d offer him as soon as Anna left the ranch.

      If she were any other beautiful woman, he wouldn’t need any prodding or pushing. He’d never been shy. But Anna was different.

      As she moved away from the shady porch and into the light of day, the platinum strands in her hair shimmered. Some women might pay good money to have highlights like that, but he’d bet a month’s pay that Anna was a natural blonde.

      He followed her to the lawn and waited while she placed her purse and briefcase on top of the old tree stump.

      “Where to?” he asked.

      “Nowhere in particular. I thought we should talk in private.”

      Nate doubted that she’d want a tour of the ranch, so he wasn’t sure which direction to go, but definitely away from Gil and Raul. As he started toward the outbuildings, Anna fell into step beside him.

      “Jessica looks good,” she said.

      Nate thought so, too, although he had no idea what signs might indicate she wasn’t healthy or thriving. Rather than admit his lack of experience or reveal his incompetence, he said, “I’ll sure be happy when she gains a few pounds.”

      “That shouldn’t take very long. You’ll be surprised at how quickly she’ll grow.”

      It seemed as though it might take forever, but Anna was probably right. The same thing happened with a colt or a calf. The more they nursed, the bigger they got. It was just going to take a little while. Hopefully, he could spend that time here on the Rocking C, where he had plenty of help.

      “She’ll be toddling around before you know it,” Anna added. “And then you’ll have other things to worry about.”

      “Like what?” The minute he uttered the worry-laced question, he wanted to temper it somehow. He hadn’t meant to reveal any insecurities he might have—and not just about infants, but fatherhood.

      “For one thing,” she said, “making sure the electrical sockets are protected from little fingers. And watching her closely so she doesn’t climb up on something and fall. You’ll also have to keep medications and cleaning supplies out of her reach.”

      Crap. There was so much he didn’t know. “Maybe I’d better get some books on the subject.”

      “That will help, but during each stage of development, the pediatricians are pretty good at pointing out the things you should be concerned about in terms of health and safety.”

      “Thank God for that.” The moment those words rolled off his tongue, he wished he could reel them back in before she realized how afraid he was that he’d slip up, that Jessie might be СКАЧАТЬ