Lani guessed Andy was also the one giving the signal for whatever would be waiting for them when they stepped into Rowdy Roost. The scent of evergreen and cinnamon drifted their way, blending with mouth-watering aromas from the kitchen, although it was empty of food and people.
The house was amazingly quiet considering more than thirty people were likely waiting in the old-fashioned Western bar Desiree had created a few years ago. Only the kitchen and a hallway separated them from Rowdy Roost, and those swinging bar doors didn’t block sound very well.
“I like the looks of what you brought to the party.” Andy helped hold the manuscripts while they each took off coats, hats, and in Granny’s case, mittens. “These will be popular.”
“Couples will have to share,” Rance said.
“That makes Dez and me special.”
Rance smiled. “Exactly.”
“I’d offer to carry some of these, but I get the impression you three want to do it.”
“Tis my honor to be carryin’ a stack of ’em,” Granny said. “I know somethin’ about the labor involved.”
“My hat’s off to you,” Andy said. “Keeping Rance’s secret all these weeks.”
“Not mine ta tell.”
“Have you read it yet?”
“Got a good start.”
“I’m about two-thirds through. Can’t wait to finish it.” He looked at Rance. “Impressive job, son.”
“Thank you. That’s—” His voice caught. “That’s high praise. You read a lot.”
“I do. And I’m excited for you, excited to watch your progress over the years. I would have loved to be around for the start of your mother’s career, and now I get to be in on the beginning of yours. It’s a privilege. I—” His phone pinged and he gave them a sheepish grin. “We’re wanted in the Roost.”
“Please tell me they’re not going to dump a bucket of ice water on my head.”
“They’re not. It was discussed and Mav pitched a fit. That little girl is very protective of her Uncle Rance.”
“I’ll be sure to thank her.”
“That said, you need to be the first one through the door.” He gestured toward the kitchen, a shortcut to Rowdy Roost.
Rance gazed at him. “Is it warm water, then? I don’t want to get these manuscripts wet.”
“Nothing liquid will fall on you, I promise.”
“That leaves a lot of possibilities still open.” He handed his stack to Andy. “Hang onto these until I make it through whatever’s in store for me.” He started through the kitchen.
Andy motioned for Lani to go next, then Granny. He brought up the rear.
“I take it Beau was involved in this?” Rance called over his shoulder.
“What do you think?”
“There’s my answer. Considering all the pranks I’ve pulled, I deserve whatever he’s come up with.”
“Mav and Zach helped.”
“Is that supposed to be comforting?”
“Beau calls it passing the torch.”
“Oh, boy.”
