Read Cougar in Texas: 3 (Rugged and Risque) for Free Online

supervision of course. Since a lot of vet schools will accept you on good grades with a minimum of forty-five or fifty college credits, I spent two years studying at the university level, then did my four years at vet school. A year as intern followed and I was offered a job at that particular facility. I did that stint for another year, and now here I am.”
    “That’s serious dedication.”
    “I always knew this was my calling. But rescuing horses on my own is new to me. I contracted with a more seasoned equine specialist to work part-time. And he recommended a number of skilled techs willing to relocate or drive over from Austin. I think we’re going to have an outstanding group.”
    Reese tore her gaze from his profile and stared out the window. “That’s incredible,” she said. “My biggest dream was a bed and breakfast.”
    “Nothing wrong with that. Weary travelers need to rest their heads somewhere.”
    She turned back to him. “You don’t judge, do you?”
    “Who am I to do it?” He was silent a moment and she motioned with her hand for him to turn off the road onto a gravel drive that led to a nearly packed parking lot. He pulled into one of the few empty spots and said, “I’m supposed to follow in my father’s footsteps, as he did, and as his father followed in my great-grandfather’s footsteps. But I don’t like the corporate mentality and the focus on making more and more money without concern for the environment or social responsibilities. I wanted to head up corporate contributions. But the fund is so bare bones—meeting minimum requirements that allow for tax deductions—that it’s not even a necessary position. So I struggle with how conscientiously the company is run.”
    She stared at him, thinking he was quite the gem. Too bad she’d already ruled out any sort of romantic involvement with him. He had a hell of a lot to offer by way of sexual chemistry and, as her mother would have said—were she still alive—true grit.
    “Well,” he said, “looks like a lively time lies in wait.” He exited the vehicle while she tried to work the latch on her seatbelt. Damn thing wouldn’t give.
    He opened her door and saw her struggling. “It sticks sometimes, sorry. I should have warned you.” Leaning in, he asked, “Do you mind?”
    “Free me,” she said with a laugh.
    He moved in close and she got another nose full of the enticing scent he wore, along with the leather from his jacket. His hunky body filled the passenger side and his shoulder brushed hers as he jiggled the latch until the metal released from its holder.
    “There you go.” He ducked out of the SUV and straightened.
    Reese tried to get her breathing under control. She slipped from the vehicle and led him to the entrance of the saloon, admittedly on shaky legs. He did crazy things to her insides. Made her knees practically knock together. Her nipples puckered behind her lacy bra and her pussy pulsed with awareness. None of those sensations could be controlled, least of all the tingling of her skin.
    He reached around her for the door handle and pulled it open. She stepped inside, instantly relieved to have the upbeat country-western music and the noise from the patrons take her mind off the way she innately responded to Caleb.
    “Hey, y’all!” Jess waved them over. They’d pushed together several tables to accommodate the large party.
    Jack delivered scotch to George and beers to the others. He asked Reese and Caleb, “What can I get you two?”
    “The same,” Caleb said as he inclined his head toward the brew.
    “Ditto.”
    “Comin’ right up.” Jack headed off to the bar.
    Caleb draped his jacket over a chair and added Reese’s after he helped her out of it. His gaze slid over her, and it made her pulse accelerate. She hadn’t gotten too dressed up for the evening out. She wore jeans along with a sweater and tank-top ensemble in winter-white. Admittedly, she was glad she’d left her hair down and had