Rafael Pederos is awakened in the middle of the night by his wheelchair-bound sister Pearl. Someone’s in the barn where they shouldn’t be. Rafael tells her to call the cops as he storms out to chase off the rustlers, but he’s too late. They’re already gone, and they’ve taken four pregnant mares with them. Now the future of the Pederos Ranch is up in the air.<br><br>This is where Chad Masters comes in. As a detective-ranger, he swears to track down the missing mares. But that’s easier said than done when he realizes there’s something about Rafael he can’t resist. Now if he can just get past the gruff exterior and teach Rafael how to love again.

Stolen Hearts

“I feel like shit. My knee is swollen and painful. And these…” He waved one of the crutches.


“I think you’ll get by fine.” Pearl took hold of the wheelchair’s wheels. “Now, how about we enjoy dinner? I’ve made your favorite. Chad, you’re welcome to stay. In fact, I insist that you do as a manner of saying thank you, and don’t you even think of turning me down. I won’t accept.”


Rafael started for the porch steps. “I’d listen if I were you.”


Chad removed his Stetson, bowing lightly. “It would be my pleasure.”


Pearl knew her way around a kitchen and blushed as Chad praised the meal. Rafael seconded the sentiment, grabbing his third slice of homemade bread. The stuff he’d been served in the hospital had been less than appetizing; which made home cooked even better. And Pearl had gone all out. The conversation was almost nonexistent while they chowed down.


Chapter 6