Reckless Heart by Barbara McMahon

things are different here. I’m doing a good job. I know I’ve messed up a little—”
    He laughed. “You’ve messed up more than anyone I’ve ever known. I’d hate to see your definition of messing up a lot!”
    “But I’m getting better. I know now to fix tons of food. I won’t put sugar in the potatoes again. I’ll use the timer so I don’t burn things. I’ve already cleaned the living room and hall. And I’ll finish up the rest of the house before you know it.”
    “You're here temporarily, Molly. I told you that from the first, so don’t get settled in too much.”
    “I know.”
    Once she sold her book, it wouldn’t matter. She could live wherever she wanted. And write full time.
    Still, it hurt just a little that he kept reminding her the assignment was only temporary.
    “I’ll be in the office. Bring my breakfast there,” he said. Glancing down the length of her, he met her eyes. “And I suggest you change before starting breakfast or you’ll have a dozen cowboys over you like flies on honey.”
    “Only a dozen?” she asked provocatively. Was he immune to her? Even after kissing her? Or was it because he’d kissed her and found her lacking?
    He reached out and rubbed the pad of his thumb gently over her lower lip. “I think Jack’s immune, too old. And a couple of the men have girlfriends. That leaves the rest of us.”
    She trembled at his touch, at his words. He’d included himself in the group of cowboys. It warmed her heart like nothing ever had.
    “What a kind man you are,” she said.
    “Kind?”
    “To say such a nice thing. I’ve never had anyone hint I could be some kind of femme fatale.”
    Josh groaned and pulled her into his arms. “What do you think these kisses have been about?” he asked as his mouth closed over hers again.
    She drove him crazy. As provocative as hell and she didn’t even have the slightest clue. As innocent as a babe, which enchanted him and confused him. He didn’t want to feel anything for her. He wanted her gone.
    But not just yet. His tongue tasted her sweetness, his chest savored the feel of her soft breasts pressed against him. His arms cherished the rounded body that so trustingly leaned into him. If he weren’t careful, he’d want more from her than anyone had ever given, including Jeannie.
    At the thought of his former fiancée, Josh’s ardor dimmed.
    He raised his head.
    Molly opened her eyes and stared up at him, the wonder clearly evident. He felt ten feet tall and wary as hell.
    “Change your clothes,” he said.
    Releasing her, he tightened the belt on his robe and headed for the office. He wasn’t about to fall for some starry-eyed romantic. He had his priorities, the ranch first and everything else a distant second.
    Time he called the employment agency again and hurry them up on the replacement housekeeper.
    Molly prepared breakfast in a daze. She couldn’t believe Josh had kissed her this morning—twice. She didn’t understand it.
    She felt as if she were in over her head. She hated to disappoint him, but she’d reached the limit of her experience. She hadn’t a clue how to progress. Even if he wanted to progress.
    And by the way he pulled away, she doubted it.
    By mid morning, Molly had a grocery list that didn’t end. She could have called it in like she'd done the previous one. But she wanted some time away from the ranch, and to get to know the store better, see what other things she might wish to buy for meals.
    She headed for the yard, wondering who would teach her how to drive one of the pickup trucks or if she needed anyone. Josh had said he would, but she didn’t want to be confined in the cab of a truck with him. Her mind kicked into overdrive anytime she came near him. How could she concentrate on driving techniques if she wondered every second whether he’d kiss her again?
    The only truck available was the big blue and white one nosed up against the barn. She crossed the yard and opened the door. The keys were