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Hanging up his phone, Don Luis took a long haul off the cigar in his mouth. “Really, my friend, it should be a nap we are enjoying, but the idea just never seemed to suit men like us. We work hard, Mr. Redford. Vaqueros enjoy getting their hands dirty. We sleep better after a hard day’s work.” He rose and strolled to the edge of the patio and gazed out onto the property.
Bull joined him at the railing with his Paloma in hand. “I have no problems sleeping, that’s for sure. A tall glass of cold milk, three Oreo cookies, a hot bath, and I’m out like a light.”
Isabella couldn’t help but smile at the thought of him eating cookies and drinking milk before bedtime. Her cowboy had a little boy’s heart.
“If you care for a dip, this land is dotted with hot springs, Mr. Redford,” Don Luis offered, his eyes staring into the distance.
“I didn’t bring any trunks, but I’d sure love to see one of those springs when we go check the stock this afternoon.”
Don Luis refilled both his and Bull’s glass from a pitcher on the tray. “Regretfully, I must be a poor host. I have business to attend to and our viewing of the stock will wait until the morning.”
Isabella’s ears perked up at the conversation. She knew her uncle’s business was more than likely a horse race. Opportunity was knocking. “I could accompany you to the springs, Mr. Redford. I can talk business with you while we pass the time. I’m as familiar with the stock as my uncle.” More so.
“Nonsense.” Don Luis frowned at Isabella. “Mr. Redford is welcome to explore on his own. There’s no need for you to venture out without a chaperone, Isabella.”
“I haven’t required a chaperone in years, Uncle Luis.” Isabella reminded him.
Ignoring his niece to face Bull, Cortez held up his glass. “I’ve instructed Manuel to have the bulls brought in from their pastures first thing tomorrow. He will assist me in telling you the story of each champion.”
Isabella fumed. Obviously, Don Luis did not want her showing up his limited knowledge of the stock and their bloodlines.
Bull frowned, not sure how to proceed. “If you’re leaving, Don Luis, and we’re not going to look at stock until the morning, I should go back to my hotel.”
“Absolutely not.” Don Luis made an expansive movement with his arms. “I asked you to come to Mexico. No guest of mine will stay in a hotel. You will remain here on Terra Dura and enjoy the bounty of my home. Tonight, we feast!” To Isabella’s surprise, he turned to her. “Niece, you will see that Magdalena prepares a banquet fit for the occasion.”
For once, Isabella was grateful for her uncle’s grandiose gestures. “Very well. I’ll see to Mr. Redford’s needs with pleasure.”
Bull cut her a glance and saw the young woman’s hungry expression. Fuck him – he was in trouble.
“Uh…thank you, Don Luis. I guess I’ll wander around a little on my own, try to find these springs. I look forward to seeing your fine animals tomorrow.” The men clinked their glasses again and drank the Paloma down.
Don Luis consulted his watch. “I should be going soon. Ask Juan for directions to the springs, he’ll help you.” He topped off Bull’s drink one more time. “Finish your siesta, Mr. Redford. I shall call down to the stables and have my finest horse saddled for you.”
A smile played on Isabella’s lips. “Excuse me.” She rose to her feet.
“Where are you off to, Isabella?” Don Luis asked when she headed toward the hacienda.
Standing at the edge of the French doors, she ventured a look at Benedict. “I have studying to do, Uncle.” Today, the topic wasn’t animal husbandry. Today, the topic was human attraction. A cool dip in a warm pool sounded like the perfect idea.
