The Texan’s Dilemma
Bounty hunter Tom McCain works alone. He couldn’t save his childhood friend, but he’ll deliver her six-year-old daughter, Sarah Jane, to the only family she has left: a wealthy great-grandfather in Texas. But that means tangling with the fiery schoolteacher who wants to adopt her.
Katie O’Malley is determined to give Sarah Jane a fresh start away from the tragedy of her early life. Even the high-handed Mr. McCain can’t stop her. But when a secret from Sarah Jane’s past threatens the young girl’s life, joining forces with Tom is Katie’s only option. They’ll need all their courage to turn a perilous future into a home, a family—and a dream come true.
“What kind of husband would you like, Katie?”
A slow smile stretched across Tom’s face, sparking a glimmer in his eyes.
Katie stood tall and crossed her arms.
“I don’t want a husband at all.”
“Why not?” Tom scanned the length of her, then back again, as though assessing her.
Had he somehow found her lacking?
The momentary insecurity took Katie aback, and she chided herself. His opinion didn’t matter in the least.
“I don’t think there’s much chance you’ll need to worry about that.”
Heat rose to her cheeks. “What do you mean?”
Tom’s lighthearted smile faded. “You might be able to recite poetry or quote ancient philosophers, but I doubt you know enough to come in out of the rain. A man would have to be plain loco to consider asking for your hand. You’d argue even if obedience would save your own hide.”
Katie’s hands went to her hips. “And I suppose you think a woman would find you appealing?”
“You do….”
JUDY DUARTE
always knew there was a book inside her, but since English was her least favorite subject in school, she never considered herself a writer. An avid reader who enjoys a happy ending, Judy couldn’t shake the dream of creating a book of her own.
Her dream became a reality in March 2002, when Silhouette Special Edition released her first book, Cowboy Courage. Since then she has published more than twenty novels. Her stories have touched the hearts of readers around the world. And in July 2005 Judy won a prestigious Readers’ Choice Award for The Rich Man’s Son.
Judy makes her home near the beach in Southern California. When she’s not cooped up in her writing cave, she’s spending time with her somewhat enormous but delightfully close family.
Lone Wolf’s Lady
Judy Duarte
MILLS & BOON
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Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
—Ephesians 4:31–32
To my editor, Susan Litman, for going above and beyond. Thank you for believing in me and this book.
Contents
Chapter One
Summer, 1884
Pleasant Valley, Texas
“Caroline Graves is dead. And your job is done.”
