“That’s my business, surely. No offense,” she added in a pleasant tone.

“None taken,” came his superficially calm response. “Only I’ll have to ask you to step out of the car and accompany me to the owner’s office.” He’d give her one final chance to own up.

“Why?”

Cole sucked in his breath. Evidently she’d decided not to take it, which could mean she really didn’t know who he was. Then again…

“Let’s just say it’s my job. From here on out you’ll have to answer to him.” He opened the door, relishing the moment when he exposed her little game, whatever it was.

Her lissom body stiffened. “This is ridiculous. I haven’t done anything wrong.”

He elevated his dark brows. “Look at it from his point of view. He buried his youngest brother today and came back to the ranch house to be with his closest friends and family. In the process of trying to give comfort to his bereaved sister-in-law, a perfect stranger walks in from out of nowhere with an agenda she refuses to reveal.”

While he’d been talking, he didn’t think she could fake the growing concern on her face, most likely for the trouble she could be in.

She stirred restlessly. “Doesn’t the fact that I called out to you for information prove I have no evil intentions?” The straight for ward hint of pleading in her voice almost convinced him.

“On the contrary,” he rejoindered coolly, “your behavior is more suspect than ever. Shall we go quietly, or do I take you inside in a manner guaranteed to embarrass you in front anyone who might see you?”

Her face filled with color. “You wouldn’t-” she whispered.

Not today, no… He’d find another method. But she didn’t know that.

“Try me, Ms. Arnold.” He checked his watch. “I’ll give you thirty seconds to make up your mind.”

CHAPTER TWO

CATHERINE didn’t dare call his bluff, not with those cold pewter eyes bearing down on her features, pinning her to the seat.