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be taught manners.”
    “Don’t you go speaking to her like that,” Doug said, attempting to step around Lil.
    She soon found herself sandwiched between the two men while they warred verbally. She barely had enough room to lift her hands and deliver a none-too-gentle shove to each man’s chest.
    Doug stumbled back, his mouth still battling with Rolfe.
    Rolfe remained immovable, his tongue swift in its rapier response.
    Sam Prescott’s stout voice cut through the angry exchange. “I’ll see to my daughter, gentlemen.”
    Doug acquiesced with a reluctant nod and backed off.
    Rolfe didn’t budge. He addressed Sam bluntly. “You should do more than see to your daughter. Her unladylike behavior is intolerable. She requires a firm hand and an education in propriety.”
    Lil’s chin went up, and her green eyes sparkled. She was prepared for full battle, and her attack was swift. “What would you know about a firm hand? You can’t even handle a horse.”
    Rolfe stepped closer, so close that if either of them had taken a breath the other would have felt it. He glared down into her upturned face and spoke with a softness that was anything but tender. “I warn you, Lillian, don’t impugn my character again.”
    Lil’s chin jutted even higher. “Or what?”
    His fingers grasped her chin. “Or you will discover exactly how firm my hand is.”
    As difficult as it was, Lil held back her response. A wise decision, she concluded after studying the threatening glare in Rolfe’s vivid blue eyes. She yanked herself free of him and took a step back. She looked to her father, nodded, and quit the room in quick, precise steps.
    Once out of view, she collapsed against the first available wall. Her heart beat thunderously, her legs trembled, and her stomach rolled. She had not expected such a manly response from Lord Sherborn. But then, she was a woman, she reasoned, and he did feel women had their place in life. It would be easy for him to act the dominant male to the obedient female. But what if he faced another dominant male? Would his stance be as potent?
    She shook her head at the crazy thoughts. Why should she even care? Lord Sherborn did not interest her in the least. His response in any given situation wasn’t her concern.
    Lil pushed herself away from the wall. She had work to do. She hurried off, rubbing at her still rolling stomach.

Chapter 5
    Rolfe read the letter twice and shook his head. His brother Evan was experiencing financial difficulties. Bad investments and bad management had placed his older brother in dire straits. A small loan would set Evan right, and with his credit already taxed to the limit, he requested Rolfe’s immediate assistance in this most important matter.
    “Excuse me, sir,” Jonathan said from the open doorway.
    “Sheriff Prescott is here and wishes to speak with you.”
    Rolfe set the letter aside. He would arrange with the bank to transfer the money promptly. “Show him in.”
    “Nice place you have here,” Sam said, stepping into the room.
    “Thank you, Sheriff.” Rolfe was direct in his response when he asked, “Is this a social or business call?”
    Sam was just as direct in his answer. “Personal.”
    Rolfe liked Sam Prescott. He didn’t mince words, and he was honest. “Let’s discuss this outside where we can get some reprieve from the summer heat.”
    Two tall French doors flanked a floor-to-ceiling bookcase behind the large desk where Rolfe had been sitting. Deep green damask curtains were tied back at each window with heavy green cords and tassels. It was through one of these doors that Rolfe led Sam.
    A sweeping circular veranda welcomed them. The protective overhang was handsomely supported by intricately designed posts, and the surrounding shade trees provided a cool oasis. Rocking chairs as well as sturdy mountain chairs complemented the scene.
    As soon as the men were seated, Jonathan arrived carrying a silver serving tray heavy with crystal decanters and glasses.