The Bull Rider’s Keeper Read Free Page B

laughed. “You’ll never believe it, but she sold the last of the Markus prints to a collector last week.”
    “The guy who was just arrested for trying to hold up a liquor store in his underwear last month?” Her dad laughed. “I thought we’d be stuck with his inventory for years.”
    “Apparently, Brit convinced the guy that, since the artist would be unavailable for additional work for the next five-to-ten, his current pieces would be worth money down the line.” Taylor took a sip of water. “I swear, she’s Molly Sunshine, sometimes.”
    “Brit’s a good employee.” Her mother focused on her salad, not looking up as she added, “Have you considered going to Europe this summer? You work so hard, maybe you need a break.”
    Taylor shook her head. “No way can I get away for more than a weekend this year. We’ve got some amazing shows lined up in the next few months. With the longer days, and the city’s promotion trying to get people downtown on Wednesdays, we’ll be busier than ever.”
    She watched her parents exchange a look and thought she saw her mother’s head shake in a silent message not to say anything. They were keeping something from her, she could tell.
    “Are you seeing anyone?” Her mother’s question came out of nowhere.
    Taylor smiled, catching on to their little secret. They were trying to set her up for a blind date, probably with one of her father’s many associates. An up-and-coming success story who was just perfect for her, since they were both single.
    “Really, guys, I’m too involved with the gallery right now to even consider casual dating. If you’re concerned I’m still hung up on Brad, believe me, that’s not an issue. I just haven’t found Mr. Right.” Taylor’s thoughts went to the man from class. “Someday, I promise, you’ll have grandchildren. Just not tomorrow.”
    “We just worry about you.” Her dad checked his watch. “I didn’t realize it was already this late.” He turned to her mother. “Ready, dear?”
    Her mother pushed aside her half-eaten lunch. “I have some calls to make for the club that I’ve been putting off.” She stood and kissed Taylor on the cheek as her father threw some bills on the table. “We’ll see you later?”
    “I’m planning on spending the weekend at the gallery, so don’t expect to see me much before Monday night.” Taylor watched her parents glance at each other again and groaned. They were matchmaking. Monday night there would be an extra man at the opening, who just so happened to stop in. “Look, I’m fine. Busy, but fine.”
    Her father patted her hand. “We know you are. Just remember that we love you.”
    Without another word, her parents hurried out of the restaurant, their heads together, whispering. Taylor watched them leave, knowing she was doomed to play nice with some guy on Monday. She didn’t have time for their games.
    The waitress came by to clear off their plates. “Can I get you something else?”
    Taylor glanced at her lunch. Might as well eat now; she’d probably be working late tonight. “Bring me a frozen margarita.”
    After spending quality time with her folks, she needed a drink.

Chapter 2
    Taylor pulled up the top of her gold sequined dress once more as she looked in the mirror. She should have gone with her instincts and worn the blue halter. In this strapless outfit, she’d be constantly checking to make sure that the top wasn’t showing too much skin. She had to look like a professional. She looked at herself in the mirror, and the face of Main Street Gallery looked back at her. She’d studied for years at every art institution in the Northwest, trying to learn as much as she needed to be as good a manager as her grandfather had been. The place was her birthright, her heritage. No way would she let the Harrison name down. She sat on the edge of her bed, reaching out to scratch Miss Fitz’s stomach. The cocker was older than Taylor wanted to admit, but seemed to be in