Chapter 10

Sombra barred the external door and then turned to Chaz. Finally he eased the loop, but drew it up until it rested above Chaz’s shoulders, the prickly rope against his neck. Although the noose was not tight, the threat felt very real.

“Shuck your clothes. Chaps need to be tried on first over bare hide to be sure they fit. Can’t have them not sitting exactly right, you know.”

Chaz knew no such thing and suspected Sombra had made it up on the spot, but he began to disrobe at once, starting with his jacket and shirt, then continuing with his breeches and small clothes. Although it wasn’t yet winter, the evening air held a distinct chill. His skin pebbled into goose bumps as he stood naked.