I shoot Sam an amused look, impressed that he knew that much about my career. Sam winks and flashes that million-dollar smile at me.
Dr. Reed’s handshake is firm but cold, his eyes scanning me like he’s assessing my worth. “Doctor Bishop,” he says, his tone clipped. “You’re a long way from home.”
“This is home.” I shrug nonchalantly. “I just work in Montana. I was born and raised here in Hicks Creek.”
“I hear you’ve been talking to the owners and doing some testing out at a few of the ranches. That’s quite the undertaking by yourself. Surely you didn’t bring a team out all this way.”
“It is,” I say evenly. “But I’m up for the challenge.”
He raises an eyebrow. “Do you have any experience managing an outbreak of this size? Or are you planning to hire someone to handle the more technical aspects?”
“This isn’t my first rodeo,” I quip.
I hate that saying, but it seems fitting right now.
He makes a noncommittal noise, clearly unimpressed. “It’s a different ballgame now. Regulations, environmental concerns… It’s not just about the ranches themselves anymore. This could be an outbreak that could affect the entire state. I’m afraid you’re in over your head. That’s why they sent me in.”
I smile, though it’s tight. “Good thing I’m a quick learner.”
Sam chuckles, clapping me on the shoulder. “Don’t let him scare you, Sutton. He’s just used to folks needing his advice.”
Dr. Reed doesn’t smile. “It’s not about scaring anyone. It’s about being realistic. Too many people think they can waltz into a situation like this without understanding the complexities.”
“Well, Dr. Reed,” I say, meeting his gaze. “I appreciate your concern, but I think I’ll manage just fine.”
His lips press into a thin line, but he doesn’t respond. Sam grins, clearly enjoying the exchange.
“Maybe I should have warned him that you’ve never been one to let anyone tell you what you can or can’t do.”
“Thanks, Sam.” I grin as I give him a quick hug.
I make my way to the counter, feeling Dr. Reed’s eyes on me the whole time.
“Hey, is Mack around?” I ask the younger woman behind the counter.
“Nah, he’s out for the day,” she answers quietly as she leans toward me.
“Can you let him know that Sutton Bishop stopped by, please?”
“I’ll let him know. He’ll be back in around six tomorrow morning,” she says quietly, her eyes flitting to Dr. Reed.
“Thanks,” I tell her with a smile before I turn on my heel and walk out of the store.
My phone begins ringing, and I look down to see Ronnie calling me.
I don’t have enough patience to deal with him today, either.
A thought flits into my head, and I answer the phone anyway.
“Tell me why there’s a regional ag health officer in my hometown,” I almost hiss into the phone.
“How would I know that?” he replies dismissively.
“Sounds like a move you’d make.”
“You wound me, baby,” he chuckles.
“Don’t call me baby,” I snap. “How else were they notified, Ronnie?”
