With all that in mind, she was shocked when Alex expressed his impression after Sam left. They were alone in his office at the time.
"I think you should continue looking for help," he said in a casual tone.
She stared at him. "Why? She seems perfect for the job."
He shrugged. "Possibly, but a man would probably be a better fit."
If he had hit her, it wouldn't have been a bigger shock. She gave him a hard look.
"That's just the kind of thing your father would say. It's discrimination - and here I thought you were above that."
His brows came down and his voice rose. His eyes flashed fire.
"It isn't discrimination. Sam is qualified to take care of the horses, but she isn't able to take care of you."
Carmen matched his frown. "Now what is that supposed to mean? I'm supposed to be hiring someone to help me with the work, not wipe my nose."
His jaw worked and he lowered his voice. "Weren't you listening to her? She doesn't believe in guns. She couldn't defend herself, let alone you."
Carmen lifted her chin, challenging him. "When was the last time you had to use a gun to defend yourself on our land? And that isn't exactly a woman's viewpoint, you know. I could hire a man with the same attitude."
He folded his hands over his chest and gave her a smug smile.
"I believe the last time I used a gun on this place was to defend you - from a bear. If you'd been out there with a gun like I told you to do, you wouldn't have needed anyone to defend you. And yes, you could find a man who felt the same way Sam does, but around here it's unlikely."
"Alright, so you defended me. I appreciate that. If you hadn't been there the bear probably would have caught me. I carry a rifle now - like you told me to," she concluded with a final snipe.
He dropped his arms to his sides and shook his head.
"When we got married, you wanted me to protect you. You had faith in my judgment then. Now all you do is argue with me."
His words blasted through her thin armor and she fired in defense.
"If I remember correctly, when I asked you to hire someone, you didn't have time. Now all of a sudden you have time to criticize my judgment. You're the one who insisted that I hire someone. Make up your mind."