The Rancher's Second Chance (Martin's Crossing Book 3) by Brenda Minton Page A

truck for Fort Worth and taking her home to her family. Instead, he turned at the entrance to the Circle M, driving under the arched, wrought iron sign.
    “I’m trying to have a conversation, Brody. Maybe we can talk about something other than pregnancy and Lincoln.”
    “And arthritis?”
    “Yes.” She studied his face as she responded. “I’m interested in what you’re planning.”
    He didn’t doubt that. “Can I turn the radio down now?”
    In answer she pushed the power button.
    “I want to use my degree and I think this is a way to stay on the ranch and still help kids. I remember what it was like, growing up a little bit lost and disconnected. If it hadn’t been for my horses, I might have had a different story.”
    “So you’ll give kids a chance to spend time on the ranch?”
    “That’s my plan. I want them to learn about horses, how to care for them and how to ride them. But it’s more than about riding. It’s about giving them a connection with animals. Because sometimes when we feel no one else is listening...”
    He pulled in the drive of Jake’s house and parked behind Duke’s truck. “I know it sounds crazy.”
    “No, it sounds amazing, like something you would think of.”
    He felt his neck flush. “Yeah, well, I’m a sensitive kind of guy.”
    He hopped out of the truck, escaping her praise. That moment with her meant more to him than it should. When he opened her door she didn’t get out.
    “You are a sensitive kind of guy,” she finally said. “And what you’re doing is great. So when someone tells you that, say thank you.”
    “Okay, thank you.” He reached for her hand to help her out.
    Lilly met them on the front porch of the house. She was sitting in a rocker with the twins, her grin wide. Brody gave her a long look, enough of a warning that she glanced away.
    “What took you so long?” she asked, rocking back and forth with a couple of sleepy little girls.
    “Are you in charge of my time card?” Brody asked, wiping his boots on the door mat.
    “Nope, just wondering. I am in charge of...”
    Brody pushed the door open. “Go on in, Grace.”
    Grace looked from Brody to Lilly. “I think I’d rather hear what your niece has to say.”
    “I’m in charge of ma...”
    “Go.” Brody pushed her gently through the door. She winked at Lilly as she went inside.
    Brody closed the door behind her, then pinned his niece with a look she wouldn’t misinterpret. “Don’t.”
    “But you taught me the art.”
    “I helped you out with your parents, but I don’t need help.”
    She had the nerve to laugh. “Oh, I think you do. I’m very good at this, and you do not have game.”
    “No, I don’t.” As the words slipped out he groaned, and of course she laughed even harder, bringing the twins to life. Rosie and Violet giggled, even though they didn’t know what they were giggling about.
    “At least you’re honest.” She quieted the twins, who were still smiling big, watching him. “Let me know if you decide to take me up on my offer. And by the way, Dad accidentally got your mail. He wonders why you’re seeing a rooma...rooma-something.”
    Rheumatologist. He didn’t explain to his niece; instead, he thanked her for the help and went inside.
    Grace stood in the center of the massive living room with tile floors, a stone fireplace and leather furniture that would take up his entire trailer. He thought about Lawson and Elizabeth’s house, empty since Breezy had married Jake. He couldn’t quite bring himself to consider his sister and brother-in-law’s home for himself. It was big, too big for a bachelor.
    It had a lot of memories. And he couldn’t go there today, couldn’t think about the sister he’d lost and her husband.
    “It’s a pretty place,” Grace said as she stepped to his side. “I waited for you. How did the inquisition turn out?”
    “Did you think you’d have to rescue me?”
    She smirked. “Maybe. I heard you made wedding invitations for Duke