Page 70 of The Cowboy’s Reckoning

“You raised your offer twice.”

“That was Mr. Connery using his own discretion. I want to reunite the property. I gave him a top price.”

“Just curious … would you have let him keep the difference? You know, to kind of inspire him to sell?”

Her expression did not waver. “I plan to buy the Reed property instead.”

Jordan matched her tone when he replied bluntly, “Unless I sell the Willow Creek to you.”

“That’s a possibility.”

“What are you plans for the Reed property?”

Again the faint smile appeared. “That is not your concern, as long as I follow zoning.”

Zoning. Yes.

“And the Willow Creek. What would you do with the ranch? Put an exclusive golf course there?”

Her gaze came up and for one split second the façade cracked.

“The ranch is too small for a golf course,” she said simply.

“Not if the conservancy isn’t renewed. Looks like the renewal comes up early next year. Have you started your paperwork?”

She recovered quickly, as if she were no stranger to being hit with unexpected information. But any doubts Jordan had about Libby Weston’s intentions for the Willow Creek evaporated.

“I am not going to explain myself to you. Are you selling the ranch?”

“Would you honor the tenant agreement?”

“I have to.” The duh was implied.

“And stop the campaign to ease the McAllen sisters out.”

“What campaign?”

“The one where you chip away at their financial resources with accidents and mishaps, then follow with something major to help them make the decision.” She frowned as if having trouble following what he was saying. He leaned forward. “It’s a felony to shoot a cow, you know.”

Libby’s hand came to her chest. “Excuse me? A cow?” She appeared genuinely appalled. “Someone shot a cow?” She pulled in a breath, but the frown remained. “I assure you that I have no idea what you’re referring to.”

Maybe she did. Maybe she didn’t. Whatever, Jordan was done with games.

Jordan got to his feet. “I’m not interested in negotiating any further.”

“You’re not serious.”

“I am.”

He didn’t know if it was a mistake to give her time to regroup, but he was certain that if she did buy Jim’s place, he still had bargaining power. She wanted to reunite the Willow Creek and the conservancy land. For what purpose he had no idea, but it wasn’t for some small project.

“I’d hoped we’d come to an understanding today.”

“That’s not going to happen. I’m keeping my ranch.”

If she wanted to buy the Reed property more power to her. He hoped she liked pigs.

When Jordan opened the door, he half expected Connery to have a glass to the heavy wood panel, but the man was nowhere to be seen. Then it struck him. He probably had the room wired. Hell, he could listen from his office.