Once the daughter of a prominent dentist in Philadelphia, Natalie Allen wasn’t happy with the life she was expected to lead, so she left society behind and headed west. Now, in the little town of Junction, she’s known as Nat, a cowboy working on Boss Daddy’s cattle ranch. She keeps to herself, renting a room in a local boarding house instead of staying in the bunk house, and with her dungarees and short hair, no one realizes she’s living as a man. But Boss Daddy’s pretty daughter Miss Lucille takes a notice to “Mr. Nat,” and the closer the two become, the more conflicted Nat grows. She likes Miss Lucille a lot more than she knows she should, and it’s easy to forget who she’s pretending to be around the boss’s daughter. Then Miss Lucille surprises everyone, Nat included, by announcing their engagement. Nat knows they can’t marry, and if she tells Miss Lucille why, her ruse will be up. Her only choice is to leave Junction behind, even if it means breaking Miss Lucille’s heart. But will Miss Lucille let Nat go so easily?

The Boss's Daughter

Nat Allen, indeed. What would Miss Lucille or Maddy have to say if they knew Natstands for Natalie? 4


In the morning while I’m getting dressed, movement in the mirror behind me catches my attention and I watch the door knob turn slowly, almost as if someone hopes to sneak into my room.


Then the door shudders when whoever it is on the other side tries to push it open, and out in the hallway, a man grunts. Quickly I button my shirt, tucking it into my dungarees, then I buckle my belt into place. Grabbing my hat off the bed post, I pocket the change on my dresser and hurry to the door. I press my ear against it, listening, but whoever was there is silent, or has moved on.


Cautiously I unlock the door and inch it open. The hall beyond is empty.


Chapter 5