(MSRP: 3.5000)
Desperate to be free of her wretched home life, Mattie Evans trusts her dishonest father and embarks on a journey to Texas to live with an aunt she never knew she had. When she finds herself sold into a mail-order-bride service, her hope quickly fades.
Rancher Cole Hartley wants no part of long-term commitment. But what's wrong with a little satisfaction in the arms of a beautiful woman? Especially when she needs his help to escape a hopeless situation. Cole proposes a bargain to Mattie. He'll pay her release fee and send her wherever she wants to go the following day. The catch? She spends one night as his wife -- in his bed.
As feelings long buried surface, can Mattie and Cole open their eyes to the promise of a future together?
95 pages Spicy
Excerpt:
Mattie stood on the porch feeling self-conscious and inadequate in her new outfit. Cole leaned against the wagon, staring at her. His gaze traveled from her head, down her body to her feet, and back up again, finally resting on her face. She gripped the package at her side, concentrating on its presence rather than Cole's heated look. She stood silent for several moments until she could no longer stand his perusal. "Well, do you like it?"
He nodded. "You look lovely, Mattie."
The compliment caught her off guard, and heat rushed to her cheeks. She hadn't thought he'd gift her with a flattering remark. It pleased her.
"Thank you, Cole." She moved toward the wagon. "And thank you for the clothes. It's been a long time since I've worn such finery."
"You're welcome."
Again, he grasped her by the waist and lifted her into the wagon. She positioned her skirts and placed the wrapped package between them on the seat. Cole did not ask about the package when he climbed into the wagon and prepared them to leave.
She had to thank him. He'd given her more than anyone had in a long time. But she had nothing. Without an actual possession to bestow, Mattie leaned over to place a spontaneous kiss on Cole's cheek. He turned his head and her lips landed on his mouth instead.
