Last Chance Cowboys: The Drifter by Anna Schmidt Page B

lost valuable time, and we need to do our share here, Roger. We can’t expect the men from the other ranches to do more because we’re shorthanded.”
    â€œMaybe if the drifter wasn’t taking his own sweet time checking the fence line, he might be able to do some actual work. Seems to me Trey could handle the fencing job and free up Hunter to do his part with the branding.”
    â€œI asked him to stay with Trey. I really don’t want Trey working alone, especially not where he might run into some of those ruffians who work for Tipton. The man is simply following orders.”
    â€œIs he now? Or is he trying to worm his way into your good graces?”
    â€œTo what purpose?”
    â€œJust take my word for it, Maria—I’ve done some checking, and he is not what he seems to be. But since you refuse to believe me and my instincts and instead choose to rely on those of this total stranger…”
    â€œOh for heaven’s sake, Roger. Will you please just stop this? Chet Hunter works for us both. By every measure I can think of, since coming here he has shown he is loyal and dedicated. One day he may move on, but as long as he is here, I have no doubt—”
    â€œBased on what?”
    â€œBased on the fact that he’s suggested I talk to you about the possibility that the water here is running lower and slower than it is just over the fence on Tipton property. To my way of thinking, that is a hand looking out for his boss’s property.”
    â€œAre you suggesting that I am not?”
    â€œI am suggesting that you work with Chet instead of trying to find ways to drive him away. And speaking of that, while you were attending this mysterious business you had in town, I assume you stopped in at the saloon at least once.”
    â€œAnd what if I did?”
    â€œI’m just wondering what the talk was about Joker. Surely someone must have heard something.”
    â€œWill you stop worrying about Joker, Maria? The man up and left.” The men around the campfire had stopped their own conversation in order to listen to his suddenly raised voice.
    Noticing this, as well as Chet coming back to the campsite, Maria took hold of Roger’s arm and turned him away from the others. “Lower your voice please. And stop fighting me, Roger. I thought we both wanted the same thing—to save Clear Springs Ranch.”
    Her touch had calmed Roger, and he covered her hand with his. “Of course we do. I just wish you would allow me to take some of the responsibility you carry on those beautiful shoulders. I can manage the ranch while you do what comes naturally to women.”
    â€œAnd that would be?”
    â€œCaring for your mother and siblings. And I think your idea of returning to the ranch is exactly the right one. I will choose one of the less experienced men to accompany you.”
    â€œI have a better idea. Assign one of the men to take over Eduardo’s duties, so he can ride back with me. It will be a nice surprise for Juanita.”
    â€œSplendid idea.”
    â€œAnd in the meantime, talk to Chet and find out what he’s seen regarding the water supply.”
    â€œOf course.” The man was all smiles now that he thought he had gotten his way. “I’ll make all the arrangements. You should get some rest. Even with an early start, you’ll still have another night under the stars before you can sleep in a real bed again.” He caressed her cheek and frowned when she stepped away and he caught her looking at something—or rather someone—over his shoulder.
    â€œAh, Chet,” Maria said, “I was just telling Roger about your concerns regarding the water. Why don’t I say good night and leave you to talk?”
    * * *
    Both men watched as Maria returned to her tent and closed the flap. Roger spoke first.
    â€œYou’ve got a way of sticking your nose in where it don’t belong, Hunter.”
    â€œJust