Read Crazy For the Cowboy for Free Online Page B

up at any of that.”
    â€œI guess not.” She brightened. “If they go out, they might not find them. From what you’ve said, the Ghost is a tricky character.”
    â€œHe is, at that. He—” The bell jangled as the door to the store opened. She quickly shoved her chili bowl under the counter as Vince walked in looking as if he’d somewhat recovered from his drinking bout. He’d obviously shaved and showered, and although his expression was a little drawn, his gaze was steady.
    She wondered why he was here, but she was determined to be more polite than she had been last evening. She had to remember that he was bringing money into the town. He might even plan to spend some in her store. “Good afternoon, Vince.”
    Anastasia had turned when the bell had jingled. She walked forward and stuck out her hand. “I’m Anastasia Bickford, Georgie’s sister.”
    â€œI remember you. I’m Vince Durant.” He smiled as he shook her hand. “You were a teenager when I first got here, and then you went off to art school.”
    â€œYep. Now I help Georgie in the store.”
    â€œI’m sure she appreciates that.”
    â€œI’m not the handiest person around. But I try.”
    Georgie felt a rush of love for Anastasia, whose artist’s soul couldn’t quite grasp mundane tasks but was brilliant at translating reality into light-filled watercolors and realistic charcoal portraits. Unfortunately she hadn’t been doing that much since returning from art school. Georgie sensed it was a private matter and was reluctant to pry.
    She returned her attention to Vince. “Is there something you need?”
    â€œA new packet of razors. Mine’s dull as a table knife.”
    Georgie looked closer and noticed a little bit of dried blood on his chin. That was usually caused by a sharp blade, not a dull one, but she wouldn’t argue if he wanted to spend money in her store. “The aisle on your left, about halfway down.” She gestured in the direction of the toiletries.
    â€œI’ll show you.” Anastasia led the way.
    Georgie watched in amusement and wondered what her sister was up to. She heard Anastasia’s low, intense murmurs as they stood together in the aisle containing men’s toiletries, but her words weren’t distinct enough to make out.
    They returned to the counter and Georgie rang up his purchase.
    Vince glanced around. “The store looks good.”
    â€œFortunately the people in town still shop here for most things instead of driving to Amarillo, so I do okay. Not like before, but okay.”
    Vince hesitated. “For what it’s worth, I’m sorry the town has fallen on hard times. Bickford’s a nice place. I’d . . . I’d like to see it prosper.”
    She didn’t want to be touched by his sincerity, but she couldn’t help it. She loved this town and hated seeing it going downhill. “Thanks.”
    â€œWell, guess I’ll get back to the hotel and see how my buddies are doing.” He picked up the package of razors.
    â€œDon’t forget what I told you,” Anastasia said.
    Vince’s mouth twitched. “Oh, I won’t. I doubt I’ll ever forget that. See you both later.” He walked out of the store with a loose-hipped stride.
    For a brief moment Georgie was caught up in the masculine appeal of that stride and the width of those broad shoulders. She understood now why that was—she was a woman who’d denied her sexual needs for too long. Vince in particular hadn’t snagged her attention, but seeing him reminded her that all men weren’t balding and middle-aged.
    â€œThat should take care of that,” Anastasia said.
    Georgie looked at her sister. “Take care of what?”
    â€œThe problem with the horses.”
    â€œWhy? What did you tell him?”
    â€œThat the Ghost has turned into a dangerous renegade with a