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Outside the sun was shining brightly on the soft rolling hills of central California, but inside the ranch house it was stormy. Maddie Charles wasn't happy. When Maddie wasn't happy, the whole house knew it; actually the whole ranch knew it. Everyone from the smallest calf to the foreman avoided her.
Jake Matthews, the foreman, was now sitting in his office grimacing, as he knew without a doubt that the stomping he heard was Maddie heading his way. He sat back in his chair and looked around the room. There wasn't much here she could throw… he'd learned a long time ago to not have anything around that could become an airborne missile.
Jake sat back and thought about her, while he was waiting for her to arrive. Her mother had died in childbirth and Frank had tried to do his best raising her, but the best had been to leave her to a bunch of different nannies and give her whatever she asked for. When she turned 18 he remarried and Maddie couldn't or wouldn't get along with Margaret. As soon as Maddie was in college, Frank left and went to New York to live with his new wife and her family. Maddie seemed happy with that decision, as she hated Margaret with a passion. What she needed in Jake's opinion was to learn the meaning of the word 'No' and her bottomed warmed but good. It appeared her father was beginning to see the problem and take steps to correct it.
Maddie loved the ranch there was no doubt about it, but she knew nothing about running it nor wanted to take part in the business side. Apparently her father was growing tired of doing it long distance. The phone call had come early this morning, and life at the Paradise Ranch had been hell since then.
Frank Charles had taken on a business partner, and said partner was arriving tomorrow to take over the management of the ranch and oversight of Maddie's trust fund. Jake felt a bit guilty because he knew his decision to retire had prompted Frank's decision. Hell, he'd been running this place single-handedly for the last 7 years, and he was approaching 70. He wanted to relax and enjoy the rest of his years. The door of his office slamming open brought him out of his reverie.
"Damn, damn, and double damn, what the hell does my father think he's doing?" Maddie yelled as she stormed into the room. "I'm not putting up with a hoity-toity city boy coming here to run this ranch…living here even. This is just too much. Nope, I'm not letting him in. I want you to instruct the men to shoot him if necessary to keep him off this land," she continued at the top of her lungs.
"Maddie, calm down, and be realistic," Jake told her in as calm a voice as he could muster.
"I AM being realistic. I realistically will not allow," she paused and looked at the paper in her hand, "Jordan Forsythe in this house, or on the property." Maddie plunked down on the couch and glared.
Jake stared back at her for a long time then spoke through gritted teeth, "You young lady will do exactly as your father wishes. I'm leaving at the end of the week, and someone has to run this place. I've heard of Mr. Forsythe, he is a successful breeder of horses and cattle in Kentucky."
"This is really all your fault! California is not Kentucky, I'm not having a stranger around here trying to control things," she was back to shouting again. "And… and… my father tells me I have to listen to what he says. I can't believe he is actually putting money in a trust fund that I have to live off, and this doofus Forsythe is going to monitor it. Who the hell does he think he is? I do what I want, when I want, how I want, and spend what I want."
Jake had to laugh at that. "Perhaps you should stand up and stamp your foot, then you'd be the perfect example of a spoiled brat having a temper tantrum. I'd say your father finally wised up and realized that you would put him in the poor house if he didn't put some control on you. He obviously can't say no, so he found someone impartial who can. I think you are in for a shock, Maddie."
"I hate you!" Maddie shouted at him, and picked up a magazine and threw it at him. Years of experience had Jake reflectively catching it. As she stormed from the room she shouted over her shoulder. "I'm going to order the men to shoot him on sight!"
"You know they won't do that, so you're just wasting your breath. You don't give the orders around here," Jake yelled back at her, then laughed as she slammed the door as hard as she could.
One minute later he heard her sport car peel out of the driveway going as fast as she could. He shook his head and hoped that one of the sheriff's guys would catch her and throw the book at her. He could only hope.
Jordan Forsythe and Frank Charles had been at the lawyer's office for the past three hours signing papers and reviewing contracts on their partnership. Jordan was really pleased. He had great admiration for Frank as a breeder and was greatly surprised when he left his ranch 7 years ago. Rumor had it that his wife didn't want to live there with his daughter. Apparently Maddie was a handful, and Frank decided it was best to separate the two. Jordan would find out for himself as he was flying to California in the next few days to take over the ranch. He wasn't sure about the role as trustee of the daughter's trust fund, but Frank was adamant.
"She's a smart girl, Maddie is, but she has no fiscal responsibility. I want her to have the trust fund to rely on. At the rate she is spending, it'll be gone long before I am," Frank had said sadly. "Margaret will be furious if I give her any more money."
"What does she do?" Jordan asked.
"Do? What do you mean?" Frank asked back.
"I mean what work does she do? How does she support herself?" Jordan replied but had a sinking feeling he knew what the answer was going to be.
"She plays. Does whatever she wants, spends my money mostly. That's why I'm setting up this trust for her and asking you to administer it. She dropped out of college and didn't finish, but she is bright and has a real flare for art and is great at math," Frank told him. "I used to have her help me with the office stuff, but since I left she hasn't done a thing."
"You mean to tell me she is 25 years old and has never had a job, of any kind?" Jordan asked shocked.
"You got it!"
Jordan shook his head but said nothing. He didn't want to upset the older man, but things were going to change fast.
Jordan's father had bred horses and cattle for years in Kentucky. When his parents were killed in a plane crash a few years ago, Jordan sold his successful Mortgage Banking business and went back to run the ranch. He loved finance, but he loved the ranch more. Within a year the ranch was showing twice the profit it had with his father at the helm. Jordan Forsythe was a wealthy young man at 33.
Over the next few days Jordan settled things on his ranch and made sure the manager had everything under control. He was looking forward to the new challenge but not necessarily Maddie Charles. After several phone conversations with the Jake Matthews, he knew he was in for a real hard time.
Jordan planned to split his time between Wingate Farm in Kentucky and California, giving each place his full attention for six months of the year. Paradise Ranch would be his home in the winter months and Wingate Farm in the summer. He decided to fly into Los Angeles and spend a day there before driving up to the ranch. Frank was calling Maddie and breaking the news to her today and he wanted to let her cool off for a day before arriving.
He checked into the Beverly Hills Hotel and decided on a swim. At six foot three and solid muscle every female eye was on him as he approached the pool. Dark hair and piercing blue eyes in a face that was finely chiseled completed the effect. He wasn't unaware of their looks, but wasn't interested either. One day he'd meet someone and settle down, but for now he was more interested in his work. So far he hadn't met anyone that interested him for more than a few dates.
He enjoyed his swim and relaxed. Tomorrow he'd head up to the ranch in the morning and would be there for lunch. Today and tonight was his.
Jordan had just returned from some sightseeing and was considering where to have dinner when his phone rang.
"Forsythe here," he answered.
"Hi Jordan, hate to bother you, but wanted to give you a heads up on things here," Jake told him.
"Problems?"
"Frank called Maddie this morning and she has got everyone a wreck here. This is probably the worst I've ever seen her. She actually wants the hands to shoot you on sight. You're not very popular with her right now," Jake said.
"I didn't think I would be. Where is she now?" Jordan asked.
"Probably in town with her friends, she tore out of her spitting gravel about two hours ago, not back yet."
"Let me think about this for a bit and I'll call you back," Jordan replied and hung up.
Thirty minutes later he called Jake back. "I think I'm going to come down late tonight, so I'll be there first thing in the morning. Might as well take charge of this right away. If you'll leave a key somewhere, I'll be there about midnight."
"That's a good idea. I'll be up so just come around back to the kitchen entrance. I'll let you in. Maddie's room is in a different wing and she sleeps soundly so she won't know when you arrive. See you then," Jake explained and hung up smiling. Maddie would be one shocked lady when she woke up tomorrow. Jake hummed to himself as he went to find Olivia and tell her the change of plans.
Maddie sat in the little restaurant in town across from her best friend Sarah. "I just can't believe he is doing this. How could he? First he marries that tramp Margaret, now she's convinced him to cut me off. I swear I'll make that Jordan Forsythe so sorry he ever heard of Paradise Ranch," Maddie all but shouted.
"Calm down Maddie, somehow you'll get through it. Your dad has always been generous, I'm sure it will be fine. What we need to do is find you a man to fall in love with and marry, then you can manage it all yourself," Sarah said soothingly.
At that Maddie snorted, "Just what I need, some jerky man hanging on me and trying to boss me around. Remember I did fall in love once… never again. I'm not ever going to be in love like you are with Bill."
"Speaking of jerky men, look who just strolled in," Sarah commented.
"Hi beautiful," Ed Baker said sliding into the booth next to Maddie. "How's my favorite girl?"
"I'm not your "girl" Ed," Maddie told him frowning.
"Ah come on now, you know you're sweet on me. How about buying me some lunch? I'm a bit short," Ed squeezed her shoulder.
Maddie sighed and threw a ten-dollar bill at him. "Sarah and I have some private things to discuss, just go and eat somewhere else."
Ed grabbed it up and left. "Thanks darlin, catch you later," he said and left.
"Maddie, why do you put up with that? You know he only is leeching off you. He sleeps with every girl who'll have him," Sarah said frowning at the retreating Ed.
"It doesn't matter. I'm not sleeping with him or anyone, and I've learned from experience money gets him and the rest to leave me alone." Maddie snapped at her friend.
"Maddie, I do wish you'd forget what happened five years ago. All men aren't like that."
Maddie didn't reply, just shook her head and sat there. For a few moments there was silence, then Maddie smiled evilly. "I know just the thing. Forsythe's probably some old fuddy-duddy who can't stand noise. Saturday night, we are having a party! A huge party!" she said and giggled for the first time that day.
The rest of the afternoon they spent spreading the word to all their friends. Maddie went home far happier than when she left. Her first mission was to find Olivia, the housekeeper. She found her in the kitchen making preparations for dinner.
"Olivia, Saturday night, I'm having a huge party. There will be at least 100 people here, so get the staff going on stocking up on stuff," Maddie smiled and hugged her.
"But Miss Maddie, Mr. Forsythe will be here. What if he doesn't want a party?" Olivia asked warily.
"It doesn't matter what he wants. This is my home, and I'm having a party. He can go play somewhere else, or to hell for all I care," Maddie said as she left the kitchen.
Maddie went to bed that night smiling. Jordan Forsythe wouldn't last a week.
A few minutes after midnight, Jake heard the sound of gravel crunching and saw the beams of a headlight pass over the wall. As the car got closer the dogs started barking. He got up and walked to the kitchen and opened the door.
"You must be Jake," Jordan said extending his hand to the older man.
"Nice to meet you," Jake told him. "Let me help with those bags."
Jordan hadn't been able to form much of an opinion on the ranch in the dark, but the inside of the house was marvelous. The center of the house contained the kitchen, living room, dining room and two offices. There were three wings; one for the staff that resided there, one for he children or other family members and one was the master suite. The layout ensured that everyone would have his or her privacy. He was occupying the master suite, since he now was half owner of the ranch. His bedroom had a large king size bed and was decorated well. Jordan was tired and decided that he'd save any further inspection until morning.
Jake put the bags down on the floor of Jordan's room. "I'll let you get some rest. Tomorrow may be a long day. Olivia is always in the kitchen by 6:00 a.m., but sleep as long as you want," Jake told him before leaving.
"What time does Maddie get up?" Jordan inquired. "I want to be sure I'm there when she comes for breakfast."
"She usually is up by 8:30 or 9:00 depending on if she was out late the night before. Tonight she went to be early, so I'd say it could be 8:00 or 8:30."
"Great, I'll see you tomorrow," Jake said and shook hands again.
Maddie woke up and stretched in bed. After relaxing for a minute she bounded out of bed and looked out the window. It was a perfect day! The sun was shining and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. She could see the cattle grazing in one of the nearer pastures, and the colts were frisking around the mares in the paddock.
"I think I'll go for a nice ride after breakfast, after I fix a few things in Mr. Forsythe's office. When I get back maybe the jerk will be here and discover that I locked all his desk drawers so he can't get into anything. This will be fun!" Maddie told her pet cat that was uncurling himself from sleep and stretching on the bed.
As she walked into the kitchen for breakfast 45 minutes later, Maddie was humming. "Morning, Olivia," she called and poured herself a cup of coffee. "I think I'll have some scrambled eggs and sausage this morning."
Maddie turned to sit at the table and gasped.
"You must be Maddie Charles, I'm Jordon Forsythe," Jordan stood and offered his hand.
Maddie ignored the extended hand. "When did you get here? You weren't expected until lunch."
" I wanted to get a good start on the day, so I came in last night," he told her.
Olivia came in and set Maddie's plate in front of her, then poured Jordan more coffee. "Sit, Miss Maddie, eat before it gets cold," she instructed.
Maddie sat down but continued glaring at Jordan. "I don't want you here! I don't like you!" she said all the while thinking how handsome he was. She didn't think she'd ever seen anyone that handsome in her life, and hated the coil of desire that came unbidden.
"I'm aware of that, but it hardly matters does it?" he said and smiled at her.
Jordan sat back drinking his coffee watching her as she ate her breakfast. She reminded him of an irate imp. Her long auburn hair curled nicely around her small face. She couldn't be more than 5 feet 3 inches, but she sure had spunk and fire in her. It was the eyes that fascinated him… deep emerald and they seemed to shoot sparks. She was nicely rounded in all the right places, especially her bottom. He couldn't help but feel a desire to know her better. Yes, this was going to be an interesting battle.
"When you're finished your breakfast, we can sit down and discuss your finances and plans," Jordan coolly informed her.
"I'm not discussing anything with you, I'm going for a ride. You'll just have to get used to the way things work around here. I do what I want, when I want, where I want and with whom I want. No one tells me different," Maddie almost yelled at him and tossed her head.
Jordan leaned over the table and locked eyes with her. "That's the way things were until now. From now on, I run things here, so you will do things my way; starting with a discussion of your finances."
Maddie's temper flared full force then as she turned bright red and stood up, knocking her chair over and sending Olivia scurrying into the other room.
"You are an asshole and I'm not doing anything you say!" Maddie threw her unfinished coffee, cup and all, at him, missing him, but splashing all over the table and floor and breaking the cup. Laughing at the expression on his face she turned and started to leave. "Next time I won't miss."
Jordan was fast on his feet and Maddie hadn't gotten more than a foot before his hand wrapped around her arm stopping her. Maddie gasped in surprise as he pulled her against his chest facing him. She didn't think she'd ever seen anyone look that dark and angry in her life.
"I'm a patient man Maddie Charles, but you have pushed me way past patient. I'm the owner of this place and you are a 'guest'. I'm not your father and I'm not your guardian, other than over your finances, but if you ever pull a stunt like that again, young lady, you'll find yourself over my knee getting that pretty little bottom of yours spanked but good. Now, clean up the mess you made, and then we ARE talking," Jordan growled in a low voice.
Maddie stood there fuming but didn't reply for a second. She didn't know why, but being held against the hard chest and hearing his words, had her tummy doing somersaults. She wasn't giving in though. "I shall do no such thing, and if you ever dare lay a hand on me, I'll have you arrested for assault," she screamed and tried to pull away from him.
"No you won't. There won't be one person here who'll testify for you, and I'm sure you won't want to 'display' the evidence. Now get busy!" Jordan told her and turned her toward the mess and swatted her hard.
Maddie gasped and grabbed her bottom, but moved to the paper towels. Once she mopped up the coffee and swept up the broken cup she started once again for the door.
"Seems you forgot the next part. Our talk." Jordan once again grabbed her arm and led her to his office. "Now sit!" he said plunking her down in a chair.
Maddie sat, though not at all happy about it. "Ok, I have things to do, what is it that's so important?" she spat out.
"I know your father told you about the trust fund and I would think you'd like to hear the details of how I intend to administer it," Jordan stated calmly and waited for some response from her.
"As long as I get what I need, I could care less. You stay in your wing and I'll stay in mine and we'll be just fine," Maddie spat out still fuming.
"I intend to go wherever I wish Maddie, but won't invade your privacy. As far as you getting what you need, as long as it's $1,000 a month, you'll be fine. You have no rent to pay and your meals are provided. All other expenses, clothing, car, insurance, etc., have to come out of your allowance.
Maddie's mind went numb. She couldn't believe what she was hearing; it had to be a huge mistake.
"Wha… what?" she managed to stammer.
"$1,000 a month Maddie, that's the allowance," Jordan repeated.
"But, I can't live on that! My car costs almost that much alone. I can't do it!" Maddie said frantically.
"Then perhaps you should get a job. You know work? Earn some money? Surely, you've heard of the concept," Jordan said and sat watching her.
Maddie was too shocked to reply, she merely got up and ran from the room, before the tears that were threatening broke. She was not going to let him see her cry. No one saw her cry. That was a promise she made to herself 5 years ago, and she wasn't going to break it now.
As fast as she could, she saddled her horse Peanuts and rode out. Only when she was out of sight of the house did she give in to the tears. When she found her favorite spot by the lake, she slid off Peanuts and sat on the ground and sobbed.
Jordan sat at the desk deep in thought after Maddie left. He'd expected a different reaction. She genuinely seemed in shock and he could swear she was about to cry when she ran from the room.
"I hear things didn't go smoothly," Jake said entering the room.
"No, not really. I feel bad now; I was kind of hard on her and maybe too mean. She didn't say much at all, just ran."
"Didn't throw anything at you or scream?" Jake asked puzzled.
"Not after the coffee earlier. I think I convinced her it wouldn't be a good idea to do that again," Jordan told him and smiled at the recollection. She sure had felt good plastered against him.
"How about showing me around the place, introduce me to the men?" Jordan asked Jake.
"Sure thing, let's take a ride and tour the grounds, then I'll introduce the men."
The two men had been riding about an hour when Jordan spotted the lake ahead. "Nice looking spot. I didn't realize there was a lake," he shouted over at Jake.
"It's a great spot, fed by a underground spring," he explained.
They hadn't gotten much further when Jordan spotted the horse tied to the tree, and Maddie slumped on the ground.
Both men reined in their horses and stopped. They were far enough away that Maddie wouldn't have heard them, but the wind was carrying her sobs clearly to them.
"Jeeze, I don't think I've ever heard that girl cry!" Jake exclaimed.
"I don't know if it would be a good idea to go to her or not," Jordan said.
"No, I think it best to leave her be," Jake said and turned his horse around.
They rode the rest of the way back in silence. Jordan really felt bad, and wondered even more about what made Maddie tick.
By the time Jordan had met the men and toured the rest of the buildings it was lunchtime. Olivia had set three places at the table, but Maddie never showed up. The two men finally went ahead without her. They were finished and still she hadn't come back.
"Does she usually miss meals?" Jordan inquired.
"Sometimes. Maybe she rode on into town to see her friend Sarah. If she is upset, I think that's where she'd head." Jake answered.
They were finishing their coffee and Jake was looking at the schedule and requisition for supplies Olivia had given him. He was just about to hand them over to Jordan when he noticed the large request for wine, beer and liquor, along with a request for 100 steaks.
"Olivia, could you come here please?" he called and handed Jordan the list, pointing to the requests.
"Yes Mister Jake?" Olivia asked.
Jordan asked her, "What is this large order for?"
"Oh, that's for Miss Maddie's party on Saturday. She said there would be 100 people and to have lots of food. She asked me to order a band, too!"
Jordan looked at Jake mystified. "Does she do this often?"
"No, this is a first I think. I doubt it's a welcome party for you though, must have something else in mind."
"Cancel the plans, Olivia, there won't be any party here this weekend. I'll speak to Maddie about it. From now on, any requests for parties or anything above normal meals will need to have my approval," Jordan told her.
"I really didn't want to confront her again so soon, but seems I have no choice, " Jordan sighed.
The two men left the kitchen and went back to reviewing books and reports.
Maddie felt too bad and low to even talk to Sarah. She waited until she knew that lunch was over and then rode back home and snuck in the back door. Olivia fortunately wasn't around so she made a quick sandwich and went to her room.
After spending a long boring afternoon in her room, Maddie wanted to go into town, but she just wasn't in the mood. She supposed at some point in time she'd have to face Jordan again, but she wasn't in the mood for him either. However, she was hungry and didn't feel like sitting in her room any more.
Jordan was already sitting at the table in the dining room when Maddie came in. He noticed her eyes were still a bit puffy, but if hadn't known she was crying it wouldn't be obvious.
"Good evening, Maddie, missed you at lunch," Jordan stood and greeted her.
"I wasn't hungry," Maddie lied and sat down.
Olivia served them and left, so it was just the two of them in the room. Jordan tried small talk but didn't get much more than yes or no from Maddie. Finally he decided he might as well give her the bad news.
"Maddie, I saw Olivia's requisitions today, and cancelled all her extra's for the weekend. There won't be any party here this weekend. In the future, all such requests need to come through me, Ok?" Jordan kept his voice purposely low and calm.
Somehow Maddie just knew that the party wasn't going to happen. Nothing would surprise her anymore.
"That's fine, there won't be any requests from me," Maddie replied glaring at him. She finished her last bit of dinner, and then stood. "Excuse me, I think I'll go into town for a bit."
"Have fun!" Jordan told her and watched her walk slowly from the room.
Maddie didn't even feel like driving fast, her whole world seemed to have crashed around her. She didn't know what she would do, but it was clear she couldn't stay at the ranch with that odious man. Her father had succeeded in taking her entire life away from her. She only hoped that Sarah would be at Hightop, the local watering hole, she really needed her company.
It was noisy in the bar when Maddie opened the door. A few people waved at her as she searched the room with her eyes. Finally she located Sarah at a table on the other side. She made her way over and slunk down in a chair.
"Hi Maddie, wondered if I'd see you tonight. Everyone's so excited about the party," Sarah said in her bubbly voice.
With a huge sigh, Maddie told her, "Look do me a favor would you? Please tell everyone the party is off. Mr. High and Mighty cancelled it."
Sarah frowned at looked at her friend. She hadn't seen her this dejected since that time at college five years ago. "What's wrong Maddie? What happened?" she asked grabbing Maddie's hand.
"Mr. Jordan Forsythe and my father, that's what happened," Maddie grumbled. She proceeded to tell Sarah what had happened, leaving out the swat and threat.
"I'll help you find a job Maddie. It's not the end of the world, everyone works you know. I'll see if there is anything open in my office," Sarah told her and squeezed her hand.
"You know there isn't. This town is just too small. I'll look, but I guess I'm going to have to just move into Santa Barbara and start my life over." Maddie squeezed her eyes shut to stop the tears lurking there.
"Come on, let's get out of here and talk," Sarah said grabbing her purse and Maddie's arm. She knew the signs well and also knew Maddie would never forgive herself if she broke down there.
The two girls sat in Sarah's car and talked. Maddie was calming down but still had no real idea what she would do.
"I guess I'll head home, and start looking tomorrow. See what I can find. I'll call you, ok?" Maddie told her and got out of the car.
Bill Powers, Sarah's fiancé, saw Maddie leave the lot and wondered what was going on. She wasn't even speeding, and for Maddie that was a rarity. Sarah saw him pull in and went over and hugged him hard.
"What's up with Maddie?" he asked.
"Oh Bill, it's just awful," Sarah told him and started explaining all that had gone on, neglecting to tell him the name of the new partner.
"You know Sarah, that man is right. She needs to get a job. Maddie can't just hide out here and at the ranch for the rest of her life."
"She's not hiding, she's scared is all. Someday she'll get over it," Sarah said with a tinge of ire in her voice.
"Watch the tone, kiddo," Bill told her and hugged her to him. "She won't get over it until she trusts herself to be around strangers again. Now come on, let's go in and dance."
Over the next week, Maddie was quiet. Jake had left and only she and Jordan were at the table. To his credit he didn't question her and gradually she began talking to him a bit. She had been looking at the want ads, but so far there wasn't anything she could do.
Her lack of a degree left her few choices in a town this size. She decided she would just have to apply where she could and left for town.
She arranged to meet Sarah for lunch and filled her in. "I'm going to apply at Kitty's Club for a server position. The money is pretty good, and I hear the tips are great. For now it's the only option I have," Maddie told her.
"Oh Maddie, that's a horrid place. You know how we've heard they dress, and rumor is they run a prostitution and drug thing there. You can't work there," Sarah pleaded with her.
"I don't have a choice, and trust me, I'm not going to get close to any of the customers. It will have to do for now. When I can save some money, I'll move," Maddie told her friend and smiled. "Now, let's eat and talk about fun stuff."
As soon as Sarah got back to work she called Bill. "You won't believe where Maddie is going to work."
Bill listened and shook his head. "No, she isn't going to work there Sarah, so don't worry. I'll personally see to it. Trust me," he told her and hung up.
Bill was the Sheriff of the town, and decided that it was time he paid this new resident at Paradise a visit. If he understood what was going on and some of Maddie's background, surely he wouldn't be so hard nosed. If necessary he would call Frank Charles himself and ream him out. Too bad if Maddie didn't want him to know about her, it might just be time he did.
Jordan was on the phone, when Olivia knocked on the door. "I'm so sorry to bother you Mr. Forsythe, but the sheriff is here to see you," she whispered.
"I have to go Tim, I'll check with you next week," Jordan told his foreman at Wingate and hung up.
"I'll see him in the living room," he told Olivia and wondered if something was wrong with Maddie.
Bill had his back to the door when Jordan walked in.
"Good afternoon, sheriff, I understand you want to see me?" Jordan asked him.
Bill turned around at the sound of the voice and smiled. "Jordan Forsythe! I never expected you to be here."
"Bill Powers, as I live and breathe! It's been years," Jordan exclaimed while shaking his hand.
"So what brings you here this afternoon. I don't think you knew I was here." Jordan motioned for him to sit.
"I didn't, but I want to talk to you about Maddie Charles. She's about to do the most harebrained thing she's ever done in her life. She's a good girl, and I can't let her do it," Bill explained.
"What is she doing? I really have no say over what she does; only what she spends. Maybe you should explain more," Jordan replied.
Bill took a few minutes to explain about Kitty's Club.
Jordan's face grew hard and his jaw was twitching when Bill finished. "That girl is out of her mind! Why didn't she tell me? Damn!" Jordan growled.
"She is pretty stubborn and doesn't trust people," Bill told him. "She'll be very upset when she finds out I've been here. My fiancée Sarah has known her since they were in grade school. When they were in college something happened that caused Maddie to drop out and she's been hiding here ever since. Sarah tries to protect her, but Maddie is ruining her life over it. I can't imagine what will happen to her at that place."
Jordan stood up and paced the room, running his hands through his thick dark hair. "Are you saying she doesn't trust anyone, or just men?"
"Men," Bill told him then sighed. "Better sit back down and I'll tell you the rest of it. I'd appreciate it if you wouldn't let her know I told you. This has to be confidential for now."
"When she was a freshman she met a man. He was a substitute professor quite a bit older than her. Maddie was always pretty innocent and sheltered. Frank spoiled her rotten and she is a brat, but has no clue about people and the world. This man played her like a harp. She fell for him hard. When the year ended she stayed there with him, didn't even come home. It turns out he really was only after her money. When Maddie told him she only had the allowance her father gave her, he turned mean. Basically he raped her, figuring if she got pregnant her father would insist they marry and he'd be on easy street.
Fortunately Maddie told Sarah and she told me. I went up there and took care of him for her. He left town, but Maddie was heartbroken. She tried to keep up with school, but couldn't. When she left school, she holed up here and became hell on wheels. It's mainly an act to keep men away from her. She's vowed there will be no one in her life. So that's Maddie Charles," Bill ended and stood up.
"Poor kid, I'd have killed the bastard if I were Frank. Too bad she didn't tell him," Jordan said. "Why didn't she press charges?"
"Maddie wouldn't. I tried to talk her into it, but she refused. She didn't tell Frank, because she felt he abandoned her too. It hasn't been an easy time for her. I hoped maybe you could give her a break" Bill asked and looked at Jordan.
"I'll do something, don't worry, I have to figure out what though. I'm not about to throw money at her though, that's for sure. She's got to learn responsibility somehow."
The men talked for a little while longer about old times, then Bill stood up. "I've got to get back, but let's get together. I'd like you to meet Sarah," he said.
"Sounds good," Jordan told him and shook hands.
Maddie drove around for a while getting her nerve up and now sat outside Kitty's Club hoping her stomach would stop turning. She hated the thought of working there, but the money was good and she had to save to get way from Jordan Forsythe and Paradise Ranch.
Finally she screwed up her courage and got out of the car and walked to the door. She opened it the smell of stale booze and smoke turned her stomach. It was dark and dingy inside and her eyes took a moment to adjust. The place was far seedier than her imagination even conjured up. A man came from someplace in the back and leered at her.
"What can I do for you, doll?" he asked in a drawl.
"I…I'd like to apply for work," she choked out.
"Yeah? So happens I could use a good looking broad like you. Any experience?" he drawled.
"Uh, no, but I'm a fast learner," Maddie answered.
"Ok, kid I'll give you a chance. Place opens in an hour, let's get you dressed and we'll see how it goes." He motioned for her to follow him.
Maddie felt like she was in some hell when she saw the 'costume' that he handed her. It was literally a bra and thong, with some tassels in front. Obediently she went into the changing room and put it on. She'd barely gotten decent when he came in and whistled.
"Yep, you're a looker." He spun her around and patted her bottom.
"Don't you dare touch me!" she shrieked.
"Lady, you'll be touched in a lot of ways shortly, so get over it," he said patting her again, and flipping the tassels on her bra.
Maddie flared and slapped his hand away. "I've changed my mind. I'm leaving," she screamed and pushed him out of the room and changed back.
On her way out she tossed the costume at him and ran from the place.
Bill had been on his way back to the station when he saw Maddie's car outside Kitty's Club. He pulled in behind her and was on his way in, when she flew out the door right into him.
"Whoa, Maddie, slow down," he said and grabbed her.
Maddie's face flared red and she looked up at him. "Oh. Hi Bill, I've got to get going."
Before he could stop her she was in her car and peeling away. Bill opened the door and greeted the owner. "I hope you haven't hired her, because if you did, she just quit!" he informed him.
"I woulda, but don't need no prudes working here. She's history," he told him.
Bill chuckled as he left. At least Maddie came to her senses in time.
Jordan breathed a sigh of relief when he saw Maddie speed into the drive. With a squeal of brakes and gravel flying, she came to a stop and jumped out of the car. Her face was still flushed from the humiliating experience.
As she ran into the kitchen she again came flat up against a hard male chest. This time it was Jordan. Her face flamed even hotter and her stomach was doing flip-flops when he held her arms and steadied her.
"Whoa, where are you going in such a hurry?" he asked smiling at her.
Maddie looked up at him and almost melted at that smile and twinkle in his eyes. "I…I…I nowhere I guess," she stammered.
Jordan held on to her, feeling her pulse hammering in her wrist.
"Sit down, and calm down, I'll get us some tea," he told her plunking her in a chair.
Maddie was too flustered to fight him so did as she was told. When Jordan came back with the ice tea he flipped a chair around and straddled it.
"Talk to me Maddie, what's going on? I'll help you, I promise," he said softly.
She sipped the tea and looked into his eyes. Somehow she knew he meant it, and that's all it took for tears to start streaming down her face. Quickly brushing them off she started to get up, but Jordan was faster. He picked her up and took her into the living room and sat down in the rocker with her on his lap and held her. No longer able to resist, Maddie sobbed. Jordan said nothing; he just let her cry.
When she quieted, he whispered in her ear, "Come on Maddie, let me help."
"I hate to cry," she burbled out. Taking a few deep breaths, Maddie finally started talking. "I've been trying to get a job to save money to leave. I couldn't find anything but an opening at Kitty's Club in town. I…I applied today and was hired, but this awful man gave me my uniform and it was terrible! It was no more than a bra and thong and then… he…he fondled me. I hit him and ran out," Maddie hid her face in his chest.
Jordan hugged her a second then lifted her chin up to look at him. "Maddie, if you had taken a job there, I'd have paddled that backside of yours until you couldn't sit for a week. I'm here to help you. You should have told me. We need to have a long talk about what you are going to do, but you are not running away from here. Understand?" he told her sternly.
Maddie stiffened in his arms. "You can't tell me what to do, Jordan Forsythe, no one tells Maddie Charles what to do," she hissed.
"Guess what? That just changed and nothing you can do about it. I decided you need guidance and help… and you're getting it… from me," he said and pulled her back against him. "Don't fight me Maddie, I'll win."
Maddie slowly relaxed again, but he felt her trembling a bit. He didn't want to scare her, but she felt so good in his arms. "Why don't you go rest for a while. We can talk more after dinner, ok?"
"Ok," Maddie said shyly and got up.
Once she was in her room, she lay on the bed thinking. Oh Maddie girl what are you doing? You promised you wouldn't ever do this again, and here you are… crying in front of him and actually falling for him. He's supposed to be the enemy… yet he seems so nice and sincere."
Maddie slept for an hour, then showered and changed for dinner. As she was showering she kept thinking about Jordan. Why did she find herself drawn to him, when she wanted to hate him? What was happening to her?
Jordan was sitting on the couch in the living room drinking a glass of wine when Maddie came in and sat down in a chair on the other side of the room. He studied her and noticed she was nervous.
"Hi there, want a glass of wine?" he asked her.
"Uh sure," Maddie replied, but stayed where she was.
Jordan smiled and patted the cushion next to him. "Come sit with me," he said in a low voice.
Maddie walked over and sat down next to him suddenly feeling shy. When he handed her a glass and their fingers touched she felt a shock go through her body.
Jordan felt it also, but wasn't quite as surprised as Maddie. He had known for a few days that he was attracted to her, and the information Bill gave him had cemented it. Because of that he'd have to take it really slow so he didn't scare her.
"I'm really sorry about earlier," Maddie apologized. "I don't normally get emotional and cry on people, it was silly."
"No, it wasn't silly, and you aren't quite being truthful here Maddie Charles, you are an emotional person. You just normally show it differently. What happened to you was scary, and unnecessary. Don't be so hard on yourself," Jordan told her as he grabbed her free hand and held it.
Maddie didn't say anything but blushed. She couldn't believe she had ever blushed so much in her life as she was today.
Olivia broke the moment, by announcing dinner. Jordan sat opposite Maddie and carried on small talk during dinner. Normally she was hungry for dinner, but tonight Maddie picked at her food and just pushed it around on her plate. Now that she had calmed down from the afternoon, she wondered what she was going to do, what plan Jordan had and would she like it.
"I think it's time we talked about your future Maddie. I'd say it was bothering you since you don't seem to be able to eat. Ready?" Jordan rose and pulled her chair out.
He had Olivia serve coffee in the living room and sat back down on the couch pulling Maddie down next to him.
"Your father told me when he was drawing up the trust papers, that you were good with figures and used to help him with the paperwork. I can use an assistant and the job is yours. You'll be paid through the payroll just like all the other employees, except you'll be working from home so to speak. The hours will be normal office hours and I expect you to observe office protocol during them. You can start tomorrow. Jake's office has been cleared out and it will be yours," Jordan explained carefully watching her expression.
Maddie listened and felt her heart quicken. She did like office work and this way she'd be able to work with him and get to know him better.
"That sounds good!" Maddie replied and smiled at him. "Uh, do I still get my allowance?"
Jordan laughed at the question. "If you want it, sure it's yours." He grabbed her and hugged her to him. "I think this will be wonderful," he whispered in her ear.
Bright and early the next day Maddie was busy organizing her office and looking over the files and books. Her head was bent over reading when Jordan entered the office. She was so preoccupied she didn't even realize he was there. He stopped in the doorway and studied her, his heart beating hard. When she was smiling and happy, she was beautiful and his attraction grew more and more every day. He'd see to it that the old stormy days didn't reoccur.
Over the next few weeks Maddie and Jordan fell into a pleasant working routine. She caught on fast to the books and the office work and everything was running smoothly.
Jordan had been patient and Maddie had relaxed and become close to him, their mutual attraction more and more obvious.
It was a Friday night and Maddie wanted to see Sarah and some of her other friends. At lunch she casually dropped it in the conversation.
"I think I'm going into town tonight, visit with Sarah and Bill at the Hightop. I haven't danced in ages either," she told and him and waited to see his reaction. Secretly she hoped maybe he'd come with her. He'd told her about going to school with Bill, so it shouldn't be too awkward.
Jordan wasn't really surprised she'd not been to town once since she'd started working. He knew she talked to Sarah, but hadn't seen her. Maddie was acting a bit coy, and he really wasn't sure, but he thought maybe she wanted him to go with her.
"Feel like some company? I've not been anywhere in town much, I'd like to meet Sarah and see this Hightop place," he asked and watched her.
Maddie felt her heart leap and smiled at him. "Sure, I'd love it!" she responded cheerily.
The rest of the day went fast and as soon as dinner was over, they were ready to leave. Maddie skipped ahead of him and started for her car, "I'll drive!" she chirped.
Jordan caught her arm halting her. "No you aren't. One of my rules, young lady, when we are out together, I drive!" he said.
Maddie bristled and turned to him. "Your rules? I don't do rules, remember?" she snarled.
Jordan didn't hesitate one second, he spun her around and gave her five hard swats on he seat of her jeans.
"I don't put up with sass from brats, either. Care to continue, Maddie?" he asked her and held her tight.
Maddie was shocked and the swats hurt. Her first instinct was to scream at him, but one look at his eyes and clenched jaw changed her mind.
"That hurt Jordan!" she huffed. "Are you in the habit of swatting people who don't agree with you?"
"Not everyone, just you," he said and pulled her tight against him and kissed her. The reaction was instantaneous. His body felt like it was on fire, and he deepened the kiss. She tasted exactly like he thought she would.
Maddie was shocked at first and stiffened only to melt as the kiss went on. Passion and feelings she felt were banked for life, sprung to life. It felt like they'd been kissing forever when they finally broke apart.
"Let's get going, before this goes further than it should right now," Jordan said hugging her tight. "I care a lot for you Maddie, and I am going to take care of you. If you get out of line, those swats will be the least of your worries."
"I didn't like the swats, but I could take the kisses," she giggled at him and climbed in his car.
She was floating when they got to the Hightop. Bill and Sarah were already there and both a bit shocked to see Maddie with Jordan. They were holding hands and Sarah could barely keep her mouth closed when she looked at him. They sat and Sarah was introduced to Jordan, then the men left to get drinks.
"You didn't tell me he was drop dead gorgeous!" Sarah chided her friend. "What's with the holding hands, you've been holding out on me," she added.
Maddie sighed and giggled. "I don't know, but I really like him Sarah, he takes charge and doesn't let me get away with anything. He's different than anyone I've ever known, but I'm afraid he'll break my heart," she sighed and her smile disappeared.
"Maddie Charles! Don't you dare start that. Bill has known him for ages and says he's as honest and solid as they come. Just take it easy and learn to trust," Sarah told her.
The conversation ended there because the men returned. The evening flew by, and Maddie was pleased to find out that Jordan was a wonderful dancer. When he held her close to him, she felt like she was in heaven. He smiled at her and snuck a few kisses while they were dancing. All too soon, the night was over.
Jordan and Bill made some plans to meet and the girls said their goodbyes. Maddie was happy but sleepy. She was asleep before they got half way home. Jordan smiled over at her and put his arm around her.
The sound of the gravel under the tires woke Maddie and she yawned. "Sorry I fell asleep, I must have worn myself out dancing."
"You can sleep in tomorrow, but now it's time for bed," Jordan declared and picked her up and carried her into the house and straight to her room. He put her down and drew her close for a goodnight kiss. By the time he pulled away, Maddie wanted him to stay, but thought better of saying anything.
"Night Maddie, sleep well," Jordan said planting another light kiss on her lips before leaving the room. It took all his fortitude to walk out of that room and not go any further.
Slowly over the next few weeks the relationship between them deepened. During the day it was all business, but at night they ate out a few times and then would go dancing. Everyone was so pleased that Maddie seemed happy and relaxed. It made life at Paradise Ranch much more pleasant.
One Saturday they were enjoying a picnic at the lake and Maddie started teasing Jordan.
He was lying back on the blanket and Maddie was sitting up surveying the surroundings.
"I think I'm going to go see how far up that tree I can get. I haven't climbed it in ages," Maddie said standing up.
Jordan looked at the tree carefully. It was old and the branches didn't look like they'd hold any weight at all.
"No, you aren't climbing that tree," he informed her sternly. "Come sit back down."
Maddie laughed and made a dash for the tree. "Don't understand that word," she said and started climbing the tree.
Jordan jumped up and grabbed her down as she hit the first branch and it cracked. Maddie squealed and was glad he was there so she didn't fall.
"Maddie Charles, you have just earned yourself a spanking," Jordan informed her as he dragged her back to the blanket and down on it with him.
"Noooooo," she squealed.
"I don't think I understand that word either," Jordan informed her laughing.
He flipped her over his legs and swatted her hard a few times. Maddie yelped and tried to wiggle free.
"I'd stay still if I were you, or you may just lose those jeans young lady." Jordan continued spanking her hard until she was ouching and on the verge of tears. He stopped but held her down.
"This is just a sample Maddie. Don't disobey me again, hear?" he asked her.
"I'm sorry! I was just playing, I didn't know it would crack," she cried.
Jordan started rubbing her bottom and she relaxed and started purring. He was aroused and could tell she was becoming that way too.
"I think you need a better sample," he said and reached under her belly and unsnapped he jeans and lowered them down her legs. Her bottom was encased in delicate blue lace panties but he could see pink skin peeking out where she'd been spanked. He rubbed and swatted a bit more until she was arching into his hand.
"I think I'm not quite getting my point across," he informed her as he lowered the panties down her legs.
Maddie felt like she was in heaven. The brief hard spanking hurt, but this was a wonderful sensation. When he had her bare bottom under his palm, she moaned and separated her legs without thinking.
Jordan shifted uncomfortably, his erection straining against his jeans, but swatted her hard a few times, then rubbed and slowly rubbed against her swollen folds. Finally he found her nub and spanked and rubbed at the same time.
Maddie gasped and moaned. She hadn't ever been touched like this. Every nerve in her body was throbbing. She could feel her moisture leaking out and her nipples were straining against her bra.
Jordan could see her arousal, and bent to whisper in her ear. "Do you want to continue, or should I stop?"
"Don't stop, oh please Jordan don't stop," she begged.
Jordan pulled her up and undressed her slowly. When her breasts were free, he feasted first on one nipple then the other. Maddie was going mad with desire. Her only other sexual experience had been rough and brutal… nothing like this.
His fingers rubbed and probed every surface of her body followed by his mouth. When she felt his fingers enter her, she tightened around him and moments later exploded. Jordan held her against him kissing her as he brought her right back to the peak. This time he quickly shed his clothes and laying her down entered her.
Maddie gasped and moaned but soon found his rhythm. After they were both spent, Jordan pulled her against him and nuzzled her neck.
"Maddie, I love you. I didn't plan on this happening this way, but I want you to be my wife," he whispered in her ear.
Maddie smiled at him and put her arms around him. "I love you too Jordan. Are you sure you want me?" she asked him shyly.
Jordan leaned up on his elbows and brushed the hair off her face. "Yes, I'm sure."
After they had loved again, they dressed and slowly made their way home.
That night when it was time for bed, Jordan scooped her up and carried her to his room.
"Let's try and do this a bit more conventionally now," he said plunking her on the bed. They spent most of the night making love and finally feel asleep in the early hours of the morning.
Maddie slept for a while, but woke up with a nightmare about her college days. Jordan was still sound asleep, softly snoring and she didn't want to wake him. As she lay there all her old insecurities and doubts came rushing back. By 5 am she was a wreck. She was sure he was using her to get total control of her father's holdings. Climbing out of bed she tiptoed out of the room and back to hers. After a quick shower, she shoved some things into a suitcase and called Sarah.
"Sorry, I know I woke you, but I can't stay here. He's just as bad as the rest. I'm coming there," she spoke quietly into the phone and hung up before Sarah could answer.
Maddie left a quick note on the kitchen table.
I came to my senses. You aren't going to get to my father's holdings through me. I'm not getting used. I'll send for my things later.
Maddie
She threw her suitcase into the car and jumped in and raced out of the drive as if the devil were after her. All she could think of was to get to Sarah's as quickly as possible. Her heart was beating wildly and her thoughts were flying and tears streaming down her face. By the time she hit the outskirts of town she was going 80mph. With vision blurred by tears, she miscalculated the curve and before she could stop the car went out of control and flipped over and rolled, finally settling in the ditch.
Jordan woke and found the bed empty He smiled and figured Maddie had gone back to her room to dress, so he got up and showered. It was early, but he felt great and didn't want to lie in bed without her. It was too early for Olivia, but he decided to make some coffee and then find Maddie.
The squeal of Maddie's tires on the gravel got his attention at the same time he saw the note. Swearing to himself he called Bill.
"Maddie just went flying out of here upset. I asked her to marry me last night and I think she is haunted by ghosts of the past. I'm going after her, but would you stop her? I'm sure she's headed for Sarah's," Jordan requested.
Bill hung up and immediately got in the squad car and started heading toward the highway. He had just reached it when he saw Maddie's car flip and roll into the ditch.
"Damn it!" he swore and called for back up and ran over to her.
Maddie was trying to get her door open a panicked expression on her face. She was so relieved when she saw Bill.
"Help me, I can't get the door open!" she screamed.
"Maddie, take it easy. I'll get you out," Bill told her. An ambulance and wrecker were already there and in no time they had Maddie out of the car and the car hoisted up.
Jordan came on the scene as the paramedics were putting her in the ambulance. He ran over to the door and reached for her.
"Maddie, what in the world happened?" he asked with a tremor in his voice.
She looked at his face and saw the fear and love and hated her rash behaviour.
"I was scared. I had awful dreams, I'm sorry," she said and started crying.
Jordan turned to the paramedics asking them, "Is she okay?"
"She seems fine. No broken bones, no cuts, and no pain. Do you want her checked out in ER?" he said. Turning to the Sheriff he asked, "What do you want us to do?"
Maddie was violently shaking her head no. "I want to go home. I don't want to go to the hospital," she was crying hysterically.
Bill pulled Jordan aside. "I'm going to have to ticket her for reckless driving, but I won't insist on a hospital check, if you'll watch her. I'll bring the ticket by later."
"Calm down Maddie, I'll take you home," Jordan told her.
Maddie whimpered all the way home and when they got there, Jordan carried her into his bedroom and sat her on the bed, gently undressing her and then putting her under the covers.
"I want you to rest, then we'll discuss this running away." He tucked the covers around her and kissed her on the forehead. She was asleep before he left the room, and slept all day.
Jordan brought her some dinner on a tray and woke her gently. Maddie opened her eyes and closed them tight again when she saw him sitting there.
"Come on, sit up and eat," he plumped pillows at her back.
"I'm sorry," Maddie said softly as she sat up.
"We'll talk about it later, now eat," Jordan said and placed the tray on her lap. "I'll be back in a bit."
Maddie ate slowly thinking about how silly she'd been. Her fervent hope was that Jordan wasn't through with her.
Tears were starting to puddle in her eyes when Jordan returned and took the tray and sat down on the bed and pulled her into his arms.
"Do you have any idea how scared I was this morning?" he asked sternly, then continued, "I want to know why you did that? I'll not tolerate running ever again Madeline Louise Charles!"
Maddie stiffened at his words and tried to pull free. He held her tight and she relaxed.
"I'm waiting, Maddie, then you're going to find out just how displeased I am by this," he said.
"Do you still love me and want to marry me?" she asked trembling.
Jordan sighed loudly. "Yes, and you aren't to ever doubt me again," he said exasperatedly. "Now talk!"
Maddie haltingly told him about what happened in college and the nightmare she had and then laying there getting scared.
"I just got so scared, Jordan," she said. "I'm sorry. I realized as I neared town, that I was wrong and really loved you."
"I love you Maddie and always will, but you aren't going to be allowed to do this to yourself again. I'm going to give you a paddling that will assure you remember this in the future. This isn't going to be a play one like yesterday. You'll think of this every time you sit for the next few days."
Without another word he flipped her over his knee and pulled her panties off. His hand resting on her bottom had the tears flowing.
"Please Jordan, I won't do it again, I promise!" she begged.
Without another word, Jordan began peppering her bottom and thighs with hard swats that soon turned her from pink to red. When her bottom was hot and swollen he pulled her up and looked at her.
"I want you in the corner thinking about this and what it could have cost us, then will finish this," he told her and turned her to the corner.
"I don't want to, I'm sorry Jordan really I am, it hurts!" Maddie cried.
Jordan led her to the corner swatting her hard. "When I tell you to do something Maddie you do it!"
For the next five minutes Jordan let her stand there thinking and crying. When her tears had subsided he called her back.
Maddie turned and ran back to him for a hug. He hugged her but then turned her over his knee again. "This is really going to hurt Maddie, and I hope I never have to do it again," he said as he brought the hairbrush down on her sit spot.
"Nooooooooooo, stop, that hurts, I'm sorry," Maddie screeched, but he kept paddling until she was limp and sobbing. Then he put the brush down and gathered her in his arms.
"It's over now, shhhhh. You're forgiven," he told her softly and rubbed her back until she calmed down.
Maddie snuggled against him and finally quieted. "I'll be good from now on," she promised.
"I doubt it, but don't every run from me Maddie. You have to trust me and talk to me. Promise?" he asked her.
"I promise, I will. If I get scared I'll tell you," she said into his chest.
Jordan hugged her tight to his chest, then bent her head back and kissed her deeply.
A year later Maddie Charles Forsythe sat in her hospital bed smiling at her husband and at the small bundle in her arms. Boyd Charles Forsythe was suckling contentedly.
"I love you Jordan. Our son is going to have such loving parents and never want for anything," Maddie leaned back against her husband.
"Uh huh, but he isn't going to be spoiled. One in the family is enough," Jordan said and laughed, tweaking Maddie's nose. |
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