Claiming the Rancher's Heart. Cindy Kirk

do you think most of the guys filled out the survey?” Anna asked when she remained silent.

      “Because your brother made ‘em.”

      “Good answer.” Anna smiled. “Why else?”

      “Because they’re lonely and looking for their soul mates.”

      “Perhaps,” Anna conceded. “Why else?”

      Stacie shifted under Anna’s expectant stare.

      “Marriage or even a long-term relationship isn’t really what Lauren’s study is about,” Anna explained.

      “It’s not?” Stacie couldn’t keep the surprise from her voice. Though Lauren’s dissertation topic wasn’t fixed in her mind, she’d been sure the bottom line was matchmaking.

      “You and Josh have a lot in common, right?”

      Stacie thought for a moment. “I like to cook. He likes to eat.”

      Anna’s lips twitched. “What else?”

      “We both love animals,” Stacie added, warming to the topic. “And he’s easy to talk to.”

      “You enjoyed his company,” Anna said matter-of-factly. “He enjoyed yours.”

      Stacie nodded. She couldn’t deny it. In fact, when Josh had driven her home that night, he’d taken the long way, giving them more time to talk. He hadn’t been uncomfortable, despite what happened. And though he hadn’t kissed her again, the look in his eyes had told her he wanted to…

      “Some guys are looking for a wife.” Anna stood and moved to the mirror, pulling her long blond hair up in a ponytail before letting it drop back down. “But a lot of them would be satisfied with simply meeting someone who enjoys their company. Someone to go out with and have a good time. Someone to be their friend and take the edge off their loneliness.”

      Stacie took a moment to digest Anna’s words. She thought back to her evening with Josh. She’d had fun and knew he had, too. Maybe that was enough.

      “Okay. I’ll do it,” Stacie said reluctantly, hoping she wasn’t making a mistake. “I’ll do it. But I refuse to wear a hat. And square dancing is absolutely out.”