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Ignoring him, Dani opened the creaky door and slid behind the wheel. A few quick twists of her wrist and the engine sputtered to life then groaned its way up the graveled path. She pushed her foot harder on the pedal and held her breath, doubting the pitiful contraption would creep its way up the steep hill. A glance in the rearview mirror proved the two men staring behind her had their doubts, too.
“Focus,” she muttered, leaning forward and tightening her grip on the steering wheel. “Keep your head up and your eyes open.”
And what spectacular scenery there was for a pair of open eyes. Once she cleared the enormous hill and passed through the dense woods, the land opened up, sprawling in all directions and stretching lazily into the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. The summer sun tinged the mountain fog with rosy undertones and bathed the green valley in golden light.
“Beautiful,” she whispered.
That was an understatement. She shook her head and rolled down the window, unable to find the words for it. The sweet, clean air of Elk Valley made the remembered feel of thick wind whipping across busy New York streets seem stifling. And the leisurely hum of wildlife rustling through the trees, the sight of birds flapping in the breeze and the sound of horses whinnying in the distance were even more cajoling.
The valley seduced her senses, beckoning her to stop the car, collapse in the wide field like a child and roll across the thick tufts of grass for days. Fold her arms behind her head, stare at the blue sky and dream of being more than she was.
She laughed. What would the elite New York socialites she rubbed shoulders with say about such an immature, impulsive thought? Her laughter trailed away. Exactly what they’d always said, probably. That she was behaving like an uncouth tomboy instead of a twenty-seven-year-old woman.
Or worse. They might suggest the same thing her father and younger brother had. That, like her late mother, she was better suited for shopping, decorating and organizing charity events rather than running a business. Especially, a multi-million-dollar one like her father’s thriving real estate firm.
Your brother will make a better vice-president.
Because he’s a man. Her father had said it without saying it. The look on his face had affirmed her suspicions and the gentle tone of his voice revealed his reluctance at having to spell it out for her. Then she’d been relegated to the back seat, signing paperwork and looking pretty for powerful male clients. Activities she detested and a game she refused to play any longer.
Dani winced. She’d always disappointed him. That was how it’d been ever since she was born a girl instead of the strapping son her father had expected.
It was ridiculous, really. This undying need to prove herself to him. Or any man, for that matter.
She tensed her stomach muscles, trying to still the waves of nausea rising within her. The entire endeavor—including this charade—made her sick. Sick of feeling like she’d never fit in or measured up. Sick of her weaknesses and herself.
Dani straightened, maneuvered the troubled car around the final curve in the driveway and brought it to a sputtering halt at the end. There was one thing her father understood and appreciated more than anything. And it never failed to capture his attention—or approval.
Money. The largest sum of which resided in the untapped potential of this awe-inspiring valley. Magnificent acres of land his employees had failed to persuade the owner, Mac Tenley, to sell.
“If a man can’t get the job done,” she chimed, shoving the door open and rising to her feet, “send in a woman.”
Dani smiled and looked up, taking in the massive log lodge in front of her. “You might not want to sell now, Mac Tenley. But you will.”
She’d make sure of it. That was why she’d applied online for the only available—and shockingly low-paying—position on the ranch. Working as a ranch hand for a few weeks would give her access to the lodge and cabins. A feat her younger brother hadn’t been able to manage. Of course, her father and brother didn’t know about this aspect of her plan—they thought she’d come out here for an extended sales pitch. Which, to be fair, was her ultimate goal. After scoping the lay of the land and drawing up plans for what could be the highest-grossing luxury retreat in Elk Valley, Tennessee, she’d show Mac Tenley the benefits of selling and make a more than fair offer.
She’d heard he was a tough customer. A greedy one, in fact. So she’d throw in a few perks to sweeten the deal. This land was valuable and she’d pay him what it was worth and then some. Enough to turn any money-grubbing head—even if she had to dig into her savings.
Her father would be happy, Mac Tenley would be happy and she’d be happy. It’d be a winning situation for them all.
Confidence renewed, Dani snagged a worn duffel bag from the back seat and hoisted the strap over her shoulder. The bulky buckle dug into her flesh then loosened with a sharp pop.
“Shoot.” Her hands shot out and lifted the bag to ease the weight off the flimsy strap.
Seemed she’d overdone it in the disguise department. She should’ve known the old putter car behind her was a bad choice when the used car salesman had tried to talk her out of it. And it didn’t look as though the bag would make it through more than one day.
She’d been aiming to look broke. Instead, she was pretty sure she looked destitute.
No matter. If it meant a better chance of keeping the job as a ranch hand and gaining access to the property, all the better.
She made the long walk up the stone path past an empty fire pit then up a steep set of stairs. The porch was wide, lined with large windows and, though in desperate need of more seating, had an absolutely stunning view of the green valley and surrounding mountains.
The foyer was even more impressive. A wide room with hardwood floors and a stone fireplace served as a reception and lounge area. Multiple seating areas were arranged in a welcoming fashion around the room but the chairs looked worn and stiff with only two couples occupying them. Judging from the disgruntled looks on their faces, they wouldn’t remain there for much longer.
A sharp scream cut through the silent waiting area. Dani jumped and a second stitch popped on her bag.
“Nadine Tenley.” Several thuds and a breathless, feminine voice came from the direction of the empty reception desk on the other side of the room. “If you don’t cut that out—”
“That hurts and my hair don’t need brushing.” A second voice. Higher-pitched and much younger sounding. “Why can’t I go hiking? It’s not fair. Maddie and me don’t get to do nothing just cuz we’re girls.”
“I don’t think Maddie wants to do anything with you right now seeing as how you’ve made her cry.”
“Ain’t nobody made her cry. She done that all on her own.” A sigh. “I’m sorry, Ms. Ann, but it just ain’t fair.”
“Excuse me.” Dani approached the counter then hesitated, peeking over the top as a phone began ringing on the desk. “I’m looking for Mac Tenley. I have an appointment but I’m early. Is he available?”
More thuds then a gray head appeared as a woman straightened, placed a pink comb on the counter and smiled. It was strained. “Good morning. Welcome to Elk Valley Ranch.” She smoothed a shaky hand over her disheveled hair and glanced at the ringing phone. “May I have your name, please?”
“Dani Jones. I’m here for an interview.”
The receptionist was jostled, fell against the counter then uttered a tsk. A small child—around seven years old?—darted out then skidded to a halt at the toes of Dani’s cheap sneakers.
“An interview?” The little girl blinked wide green eyes up at her, her tangled blond hair sticking out at odd angles. Her jeans and T-shirt were muddy and rumpled. “You the new hand my daddy’s gonna hire?”
Daddy? Dani frowned, mentally sifting through the facts she’d gathered on Mac Tenley. Twenty-nine, owner of Elk Valley Ranch and single. There’d been no mention of a wife or children. And certainly no mention of the cute spitfire in front of her.
“I—”
“Nadine, apologize to your sister right now.”
Dani stilled, the low rumble sending a delicious shiver over her skin. She glanced up...then up a smidge more. A tall, muscular man with rumpled blond hair and dark green eyes strode down a narrow side-hallway, carrying a young girl. He smoothed a big hand over the girl’s curls as she buried her face in his neck.
Nadine spun, propped her hands on her hips and raised her voice over the shrill clang of the phone. “What’d I do?”
The second girl lifted her head and rubbed at her tear-stained cheeks. “You know what you did.” She was a perfect replica of Nadine except for freshly combed hair, pink ribbons and a flowery sundress. “You called me a sissy.”
Nadine shrugged. “Well, you were kinda acting like one.”
“That’s enough.” The man shot a stern look at Nadine then glanced over his shoulder. “Ms. Ann, would you please answer the phone?”
Ann held up her hands and blew out a breath. “Yes, I’m just all out of sorts. I’m sorry, Mac, but I’m not a babysitter. Your father never asked me to watch after children while I ran the front desk.”
He grimaced. “I know and I apologize. It won’t happen again.”
Dani pulled in a sharp breath and held it. So this was Mac Tenley. Twenty-nine, owner of Elk Valley Ranch and a...daddy. Her lungs burned. Definitely not what she’d expected. Or planned for. Deceiving a man was bad enough but lying to children? Her heart slammed against her ribs. There was no way she could go through with this. She’d just have to return to New York and come up with a new strategy.
A bell rang and warm air wafted through the room. Dani turned, watching as one of the couples exited.
“I’m sorry, were you waiting for a room?”
Dani spun back to find Mac studying her. She opened her mouth, releasing the pent-up breath, and tried not to stare at his wide chest, broad shoulders and sensual lips.
His strong jaw firmed. His gaze roved over her face then lingered on her mouth, heating her cheeks.
“It’s a girl, Dad,” Nadine piped, tugging at his jeans.
Mac started then jerked his eyes back up to meet hers.
“I can see that.” He bent, set the second girl on her feet then nodded. “I’m Mac Tenley, owner. Sorry about the wait. Ms. Ann will check you in momentarily. If you’ll excuse me?”
Dani sighed as he moved past her and made his way over to the sole couple still in the waiting area. Time to go. She tightened her grip on her bag and started toward the exit.
“Are you gonna shovel the horse poop?” Nadine asked, skipping in front of her. “Cuz we hate when dad makes us shovel the poop. We usually have to do it when we get in trouble.”
The other girl scooted to her sister’s side, tears gone and interest sparking in her eyes. “Who’s she?”
“The new hand,” Nadine said.
“But she’s not a cowboy like Mr. Tim.”
“I know.” Nadine lifted her chin, a self-satisfied grin appearing. “She’s a girl.”
The child looked Dani over then stepped forward and held out her hand. “Hello. I’m Maddie.”
Unable to resist, Dani smiled and shook her hand. “Dani. It’s nice to meet you.”
“Girls, I asked you to stay put in the game room,” Mac muttered as he walked by. He escorted the couple from the waiting area to the front desk and smiled. “I apologize for the wait. Ms. Ann will have you settled in no time and the first night will be free. I hope you enjoy your stay and if you need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
The couple thanked him and Ann began checking them in. Mac took both girls by the hand then started leading them down the hall.
“But, Dad, wait.” Nadine jerked against Mac’s hold, halting him. “That’s the new hand you said was coming.”
Dani bit her lip and headed for the door.
“What?”
Mac’s sexy voice echoed across the foyer. Dani quickened her step.
“The new hand,” Nadine repeated. “Dani Jones.”
Dani twisted the doorknob, goose bumps breaking out on her nape as Mac’s rumble drew closer.
“Wait. Are you Dani Jones?”
Dani’s hand froze around the doorknob. This was it. Time to end it. No more lies. She didn’t have to say she was Dani Jones. She’d just say she’d made a mistake. That after seeing the state of the place, she’d decided the job wasn’t for her and then she’d leave.
And that’d be the end of it.
She glanced over her shoulder as his intense gaze traveled from the top of her head to the tips of her shoes.
“I don’t mean to be rude,” Mac said. “But you’re not what I was expecting.”
Dani frowned. The disappointment in his dark eyes raised familiar hackles. Ones that stiffened her back and clenched her jaw every time her brother shut her out of a business meeting or her father asked her to file another stack of paperwork.
Her mouth opened, the curt words jumping off her tongue before she had a chance to stop them. “Why? Because I’m a woman?”
* * *
DAMN. HE’D WALKED right into that one.
Mac winced, taking in the angry flare of the woman’s mesmerizing blue eyes and tight set of her slim shoulders. He shook his head and held up a hand. “Now, that’s not what I meant.”
Though it hit closer to the truth than he wanted to admit. He sure hadn’t pictured a woman when he’d finally received an email in response to his ad a week ago. And he’d assumed the odd spelling of Danny—with an i—had simply been unfamiliar to him. It’d never occurred to him that a woman was applying for the job.
Of course, seeing as how he was strapped for cash and in desperate need of extra help, he’d had no problem overlooking the applicant’s lack of experience when he’d read the email. If this Dani was willing to accept the next-to-nothing pay balanced out with free lodging and meals, Mac was more than eager to hire him.
Her. Mac shifted from one boot to the other and cleared his throat. He’d be more than eager to...
She faced him, adjusted the strap on her shoulder then put her hands on her hips. The action pulled her thin T-shirt tight across her ample breasts and the firm tap of her sneaker on the hardwood floor drew his eyes to the shapely length of her jean-clad legs.
“Well?” she asked, the soft curves of her mouth tightening into a hard line. “What did you mean?”
Ah, hell. He tore his gaze away from the appealing curves of her hips, refocused on her face and ignored the latent heat stirring in his blood. Add ogling to employment discrimination.
Figured the first woman in four years that sucker-punched him with lust would be a potential employee. He didn’t have time for women and kept his distance from them for a reason. He grimaced. Three reasons, actually. But it looked like fate was hell-bent on making his life difficult.
“I just meant that I was expecting someone different.”
Her eyes narrowed, her thick lashes obscuring those beautiful blues. “A man, I suppose?”
Mac glanced down at his girls, each hugging one of his legs. They stared up at him. Innocent curiosity lifted Maddie’s expression. Nadine’s judgmental scowl—which she flashed him often lately—deepened.
Cringing, he looked up. “You have to admit, your name can be misleading.”
She flushed and the redness stamping her face spread down the graceful curve of her neck.
“You are Dani Jones, aren’t you?” He placed a hand on the girls’ shoulders and hugged them closer.
She’d never actually confirmed it and the heat in his blood cooled, slowing it in his veins and leading him to scrutinize her more closely. Her clothing had seen better days and the ragged shoes she sported wouldn’t last more than a week on the ranch. But her nails, which still pressed into her hips, were manicured to perfection. The soft shade of pink nail polish matched the lipstick accentuating her lush mouth and the stud gemstones in her delicate earlobes.
Every bit of which screamed the exact opposite of a hard-living, nomadic ranch hand who’d applied for the position.
“Look,” Mac scoffed. “If you’re not Dani Jones and some developer sent you out here to sweet-talk me into selling my land, you might as well sashay back to where you came from. I’ve had at least seven agents here this week already and I’m not in the mood for another debate. I’m not interested in selling my land. I’m interested in hiring help.”
“But she is Dani Jones,” Nadine said, frowning up at him. “That’s what she said. And a girl can be a ranch hand if she wants to.” She released his leg, walked over to the woman and grabbed her hand. “Tell him. A girl can be a ranch hand, can’t she?”
The redness marring the woman’s fair skin deepened as she looked down at Nadine. Hesitating, she licked her lips then smiled, saying softly, “Yes. A girl can do anything she sets her mind to.” She faced him head-on. “I’m not here to sweet-talk you and I’m not prone to sashaying anywhere. I’m here to work. And yes, I’m... Dani.”
Mac sighed. Well. That eased one of his worries but it sure didn’t do much for the others.
