Read Online His Heart to Have (Cowboys of Whispering Winds) by Renee Peterson - Free Book Online Page B

whole town last night,” Allie informed him with a twinkle in her eye.
    A groan rumbled from him. At least Allie had her spark back. “Do I want to know?” he asked.
    “Probably not.  Let’s just say the Jase I saw last night could disappear forever and I wouldn’t miss him.”
    “That bad, huh?”
    “Yeah. If I didn’t know you better, I’d hate you right now.”
    A knock at the door ended their conversation. Rarely did anyone come out to his cabin. He’d chosen this spot for its seclusion; a natural clearing nestled behind a line of cozy white bark pines. On any given day, he could open his windows, and let the spicy scents of nature in. After a long day of work, this was his refuge. Reluctantly he stood and went to the door. His dad stood on the porch, looking impatient and worried.
    “Everything okay, dad?”
    “I tried calling both your phones. There’s been an accident.”
    “What’s happened?” he asked, his stomach clenching. By this time, Allie had come to him, placing a hand on his shoulder.
    “Everything’s fine. Well sort of, but I’m going to need your help.”
    “Jeremy’s car was hit by someone running a stoplight this morning. Cody was in the car with him and they’re at the hospital.”
    Allie’s nails dug into his shoulders. Everyone at Whispering Winds loved his nephew. The little guy was bursting with energy and an incredible sense of humor. “How’s are they?” Allie asked.
    “From what the doctor said, they’re pretty beat up, but should fully recover. Cody has a broken leg and some scratches. Jeremy and his latest girlfriend, Tara, both have broken legs and Tara has a concussion. The doctor said they were very fortunate to still be alive.”
    “Oh my goodness,” Allie exclaimed. “What can we do to help?”
    “Diana and I are leaving in a few minutes to drive Lanie to Rawlins.  She’s pretty shaken and we don’t want her making the trip alone.  Plus, we’d rather see our grandson for ourselves to know he’s okay.”
    “Give me a minute, and I’ll go with you guys,” Jase said.
    “No, Son.  I need you to stay here and take over Lanie’s ride today.  They are some rather difficult guests and, other than your sister, you’re the best at handling them.”
    Conflict clawed at him.  Sometimes the lines of duty were blurred while working on a ranch.  How to make family the top priority wasn’t always a clear path.  Like now, when he wanted to be there for his sister and nephew despite being needed here.   This was their lifeline, their legacy, though.  He’d stay here and take their guests on the trail ride.   At least mom and dad will be with Lanie , he reassured himself.
    “Keep in touch about Cody,” he told his dad.
    “I’ll head right over to the lodge and rearrange schedules so Lanie’s will be cleared for a while,” Allie piped up.
    “Your mom’s already on it. I told her I’d send you over, but she said she’s got it under control and there’s no rush.”
    “I was going over soon anyway. Please let me know if there’s any update on Cody.”
    “Certainly.” Everett looked at his watch, then his son. “Thanks for stepping in. I’ll talk to you soon.” He turned and left in a brisk walk.
    Jase turned to Allie. “Looks like I better get myself together. I’m going to need a whole lot more coffee.” Rolling his shoulders, he tried to ease the aches.  This morning had already been worse than the time he’d been thrown off a green horse that had been spooked by a mountain lion. 
    “You made the right decision. Cody’s going to be fine and will be surrounded by people that love him.”
    Allie’s thoughts mirrored his, but they meant more coming from her. “I know.” He took a deep breath. “What time’s the ride?” he asked.
    “Not until this afternoon. You’re in luck; it’s just the Alpine Trail, so it won’t take up much of your day. But Mr. Jensen will be riding with you and, to be frank, he’s quite difficult. He