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Page 153

| he commanded. ''The others go back into Melbourne and pick me out some prime sheep and cattle. To fool Ashton York, I've got to make this look legitimate." |

| Never questioning Stanford's reasons for hating Ashton, only concerned over the pay they were receiving for obeying Stanford's orders, the men nodded and separated. Some rode away on horses; some took bedrolls and settled down close to the river. |

| Stanford turned to Bianca and his eyes glistened as he smiled at her. "We're home," he said, moving to stand over her so that their breaths mingled. "And I guess you know what I'm expectin' from you tonight, don't you? A homecoming present from my pretty half-breed." |

| Ripples of fear crept along Bianca's flesh. She knew the art of Stanford's lovemaking, and it was in no way gentle. Though she had shared a bed with many a man in her lifetime, never had any enjoyed inflicting pain while making love the way Stanford Sidwell did. And she feared not for herself alone now. She had her unborn child's welfare to consider! |

| Curled up with Lightning close to the house, Ashton was suddenly awakened by a sharp, piercing scream in the distance. He grabbed one of his revolvers and bolted to his feet, peering into the darkness, waiting to hear the scream again. Soon he began to think that he had not heard it at all, for never had he heard a night as quiet and peaceful as this one was now. Even the dingoes had ceased their howling. |

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