Free Crazy For You by Cheyenne McCray Page B

anything lined up now that you’re back?”
    Clint shook his head. “I wasn’t even sure I was staying.”
    “And now?” Carl asked.
    Clint thought about it for a long moment before he answered. Ella came to mind and he had to push that thought aside. He surprised himself, though, as he said, “I’ve decided I’m going to stay for now. After that…I’m not sure, not yet.”
    Carl didn’t look as though Clint’s statement surprised him at all. “Ever since we lost our ranch hand, Ella’s had to do most of the ranch work.” Carl raised his arthritic hands. “I’ve got this damn rheumatoid arthritis in my hands and my knees. I can’t do what I used to.”
    The older man paused and Clint waited for him to continue.
    “You and me—we chose to be cowboys,” Carl went on. “But in my heart, I believe that Ella wouldn’t have picked this life if she hadn’t been forced to.”
    Carl continued to speak. “I’ve got a proposition to make to you.” He lowered his hands. “I’d like to bring you on as my ranch hand while you’re here or until you decide to find something permanent. Hell, I’d make you permanent if you’d take on the job.” Carl was talking as if Clint would come around and stay for sure.
    Clint was taken aback for a moment by Carl’s offer. Before he could respond, Carl went on. “I’m feeling mighty guilty because Ella isn’t able to do much of what she loves. Her art.” Carl was serious then smiled when he said, “She’s good, damned good.” His smile faded.
    Memories of a young Ella drawing horses and making them out of Play-Doh came to mind. When she was older her drawings had become more detailed and beautiful, but she wouldn’t let him see most of them. In fact the only ones he’d seen were those that her proud mother had shown off when Ella wasn’t around.
    “Since Pistol left, Ella’s been too busy to spend much time in that studio of hers that she’s got all fixed up,” Carl was saying. “I can’t pay you a lot but I can give you room and board. I’ve got a cabin that you can stay in.”
    Several thoughts shot through Clint’s mind. He’d be able to help a family that he loved, a family he felt he owed something to. He’d have something to keep him busy until he decided what he wanted to do, and he’d have a place to stay.
    And he’d be close to Ella.
    The last thought threw him off a bit, but he pushed it aside and nodded. “I’d be glad to do whatever I can to help out.”
    Carl gave a nod and appeared to be pleased. “I’m mighty glad you’ll be coming on. I know you likely will find something more permanent, but I’ll be glad to have you as long as you can.” He held out his hand and Clint took it. The older man had a firm grip as he shook Clint’s hand.
    “Thank you, Carl.” Clint and Carl released hands. “For everything.”
    Carl braced his hands on the arms of the rocking chair. “What do you say we have a shot of whiskey before you head on out?”
    “I’d like that.” Clint glanced toward the barn. “Ella is still with the mare and her foal. I should go see how she’s doing first.”
    “I’ll get out the whiskey,” Carl said as he started to get up.
    Clint held himself back from offering to help Carl who was clearly hurting as he got to his feet. It wasn’t just Bucky and Alice who were stubborn when it came to admitting they could use some help. Carl and Ella were just as mule-headed. But he’d loved every member of the family.
    As Carl walked into the house, Clint’s gaze moved to the barn. Back then he’d cared for Ella like a little sister. That sure as hell had changed in seven years. Ella wasn’t so little anymore. She was a grown woman now.
    A woman he wanted to get to know in every way possible.
     

Chapter 10
     
    Clint pulled on his muddy boots that were still on the porch and headed out into the rain, soaking his borrowed clothes immediately straight through to his skin. He didn’t know how Alice was going to