* * *
Johnnie watched Jessica twist around on her boot heels, all indignant-like, and glare at Clint's retreating back. Good for her not to let Clint with his intimidating man-in-charge attitude stampede over her. She stopped and looked over at her little mare. Why would she do that? But then Jess reached back, grabbed part of her ponytail, and a rock landed in Johnnie's stomach. Sure enough. She pulled the lock of hair over her shoulder and wrapped it around that index finger of hers. She remained still and twisted that lock round and round her finger before finally turning to head for the chute. As he figured, sheer despair showed on her face.
What has Clint said to her this time?
During the past few weeks as Johnnie's fondness for Jess grew, his respect for Clint had plummeted, since the man seemed oblivious to Jess's affections. Johnnie liked to stay near, to be on hand when the need arose for soothing Jess's Clint-bruised feelings.
Like he wanted to do now.
"I need to leave the corral, Johnnie," she said in a small voice. "I'll be over by the mare." When she pivoted to leave, he caught her arm and eased her back around to face him.
"What did he say to you, Jess?"
She kept her head turned away, doubling his admiration for her. She always wanted to be strong. It seemed to him, for her to lose composure and show weakness meant someone would have to give of themselves to comfort her. She was too selfless for that.
"Nothing," she said, impressively steady. "He doesn't want me to be in here when you bring in the calves. That's all."
"Jess, look at me." Still holding her upper arm, he gave it a little shake.
She waited a long moment. He knew her. She was busy pushing raw emotions down, steeling herself against his scrutiny. Finally she met his gaze.
"It was more than that. What was it?" He gave her a look he hoped sent the message that he wouldn't let it go.
"He asked me to explain things to Veronica when she gets here, that's all."
"Awww, no! He didn't invite her here!" He released Jessica's arm and threw both his hands in the air. These beauties of Clint's were shallow and snobbish. He would never understand that man. The women he chose were opposites of him in every way but good looks.
Jessica didn't say anything more, but her questioning gaze pierced him. He didn't know what to say to her that wouldn't cause more hurt. She finally asked, "Why, what about her?"
"She doesn't belong at a round-up." He started to turn away, but the need to forewarn Jess stopped him. Veronica was a devious one. Clint could handle her, but Jess was not in that league. "She'll be a pain to have around. Watch your step."