They both tried to catch their breath as they lay there together. Wilder raised his head, kissed her lips, then rolled onto his back beside her.
“Shit,” he swore.
“What?”
“I didn’t wear a condom.”
“Oh. It’s okay. I’m on birth control. I stayed on it after Clay died to keep my periods regular. Don’t worry. I’m safe, and if you always wear a condom, I’m sure you are too.”
“I am. I loved skin on skin, baby.”
“Me too.” She moved to place her head on his chest.
“I’d better go,” Wilder said a few minutes later.
“I know. We’ll have to get away together to spend the night with each other.”
He kissed her temple. “I’d love that.”
After moving away from her, he got out of bed, found his clothes, dressed, and then sat on the bed to pull on his boots.
“I’ll see you later in the barn.”
He leaned down and kissed her. “Yes, ma’am. Get some sleep.”
“I forgot about my milk in the microwave. It’s probably cold again now.”
“Do you need it? I’ll hit the button for you before I go.”
“No, I don’t think I do. You wore me out, so I’ll sleep fine. I’ll get it later.” She yawned and could feel her eyes getting heavy.
“All right.” He still didn’t move.
“Please be careful when going back to the bunkhouse.”
“I will. Sleep well, darlin’.” He left the room.
Rory closed her eyes and fell asleep with a smile on her face.
****
Wilder entered the kitchen, picked up his hat, and placed it on his head. Before going out the door, he took the mug of milk from the microwave, and put it in the fridge. He flipped off the light then walked out.
When he stepped onto the porch, he glanced around. It was silent. He made his way to the bunkhouse, and just as he reached the porch, the door opened, and someone stepped out. Wilder stopped in his tracks.
“Can’t sleep either?” Joel asked him as he lit a cigarette.
“No. I took a walk and checked around for anything suspicious.”
“Man, I can’t believe Rory has to go through this. She’s too nice for this to happen to her. I don’t think I’ve ever worked on a ranch or farm where the owner was so attached to their animals. I’m talking about cattle, pigs, or anything other than horses. Most owners love their horses.” Joel chuckled.
“True.” Wilder took a seat on a chair and propped his feet on the rail.
“Hell, I might as well stay up now. We only have two hours before we start work.”
“Yeah. Joel? Do you have any idea who would do this to her?” Wilder held his breath.
“No. I wish I did. I’d kick their ass.”