Conall's Legacy Read Free Page B

man to share good days and bad?”
    “I suppose I do.” A soul-deep sigh came from within Luisa’s chest. “But who’s going to get close enough to know the real me when they see my face?”
    “Your face isn’t bad. I’ve dealt with patients who were a lot worse. Besides, a real man won’t care.”
    The heat in her friend’s voice brought a smile to Luisa’s lips.
    Cindy shrugged, obviously embarrassed by her outburst. “Anyway, you need to see someone to help you get over the remaining agoraphobia, and deal with the rest.”
    “I see you. That’s good enough for me.”
    “You see me as a friend. Our relationship is too important to both of us. Because of that, I can’t treat you and you know it.”
    Luisa ignored her friend’s comment. “Anyway, I am over it.”
    Cindy simply sent her a yeah-right look.
    “Well, mostly. I have knee-jerk reactions when I first think of leaving here, but then I go to town anyway. That’s lots better than a few years ago.” Luisa cocked her head to the side. She’d picked up the hint of something brewing. “You said I should see ‘someone.’ Who do you mean by someone?” She watched guilt flicker across her friend’s face. “You mean a shrink.”
    “Watch it. I’m a shrink.”
    “I know, but you mean a stranger shrink. Someone poking around in my mind who I don’t know? I don’t think so.”
    “You need to talk to a professional about your reluctance to leave the ranch.”
    “I am perfectly content here with me, myself, and I. I don’t need anything that isn’t right here. And I go to town when I want to.”
    “Two times in the last two years doesn’t count for much. You need help from an expert in the field.”
    “Like who?”
    “Well...” Cindy took a slow sip of soft drink, avoiding Luisa’s gaze. “I have a colleague who’s willing to come here and work with you if you aren’t comfortable in town,” she said in a rush. “His name’s Adriano Menendez, and the added benefit is that he’s dynamite to look at.” She wiggled her eyebrows, obviously trying to lighten the moment.
    Irritation flashed through Luisa at grass-fire speed. “You talked to a stranger about me?”
    “Not really. Well, yes.”
    “What happened to patient-doctor privacy?”
    “You’re not my patient. You’re my best friend.” She looked at Luisa sheepishly. “I’m sorry, but I worry about you out here all alone.”
    “Now you sound like a mother. I appreciate your concern, but I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
    “Why not? He’s got an excellent reputation for treating phobias. Especially this one.”
    “I can’t afford outside help. Besides, I’m working through it myself.”
    Cindy fired possibilities at her, ignoring her reluctance. “Hey, Adriano has kids. What if he wants to barter?”
    “Barter what?”
    “Riding lessons. Don’t you still have an old school horse?” “Sure, but I don’t want a pack of kids out here.” Unexpected desire tugged at her heart. At least not someone else’s .
    “You’re making excuses. Come on. Admit it. My plan just might work.”
    “Now, don’t go getting excited. I want to spend a peaceful summer. I’ve three spring foals due any time, and they’ll take attention and socialization. Not to mention the two books my publisher wants finished before September.” Luisa sighed. “I don’t want anyone around.” She noted the determined set of Cindy’s shoulders and conceded. “Maybe we’ll check into this in the fall.”
    Cindy perked up. “Great,” she said, clapping her hands together. “It’s time to finish it, Luisa. I’m not going to let you forget.”
    Luisa laughed, the sound warm and welcome. “I know you won’t. Now tell me, what’s up with your love life these days? Did I hear the hint of lust in your voice? Isn’t he married?”
    A blush spread over her friend’s features and a sparkle lit up her blue eyes. Apparently, Cindy was dating again--and enjoying it.
    “Actually, he’s a