“What’s that?” I point to number seven.
She assesses me for a minute, as if she’s trying to decide whether she can trust me. Finally, she sighs, admitting, “The ranch isn’t doing well. Our profits have been down, and the cost of maintaining the ranch continues to creep up. We need to do something different, or we aren’t going to make it.”
There’s fear in her eyes, and it spurs me to wrap my arms around her without hesitation. She allows me to do so, even leaning into me in a way that makes my heart melt.
Talking into my chest now, she continues. “Regenerative agriculture, or ‘regenerative ag,’ is supposed to not only be better for soil health and the environment, but it’s been proven to cut costs and improve yields. I think it could work for Copper Hill, but I’ve been afraid to suggest it.”
“It sounds like a great idea. I think it could work for your family’s ranch, especially with someone passionate like you leading the charge.”
“I think so too,” she says softly.
She turns back to the notepad, jotting down another idea, and curiosity has me peeking over her shoulder.
8. Kiss someone new (when I’m ready)
I can’t help the grin that curves on my lips as I watch her add the little note in parentheses. I look over the list once more.
“What about hobbies? Are there any you want to pick up again?”
“Well sure, but I don’t have time. Now that Austin’s gone, I’m the one in charge, and I’m managing the ranch with one less cowboy. If I’m being honest, I already don’t know how I’ll manage to get away for a weekend to attend a conference orfind time to researchregenerative ag.”
“What if I helped you?”
“When wouldyouhave the time? I thought you just took an ownership stake in the bar. You’re probably just as busy as me.”
“It’s only a ten percent stake. If anything, it’s given me more time because I’m starting to supervise and cutting back my late shifts. I can help you in the morning with whatever you need, whether it’s an extra set of hands or help with admin work.”
She worries her lower lip. “When are you going to sleep?”
“I’ll take naps.” I smirk.
“This sounds like a terrible idea. You need to take care of yourself.”
“So do you,” I counter, pinning her with a look. “Let me help.”
“Are you sure?”
“I’m sure. Add some hobbies on there.” I tap the notepad. “You need to let yourself enjoy life again.”
She stares me down for a while, and I feel her gaze on every inch of my skin, but I hold it, determined to show her I’m not going to change my mind. I’ve watched Lauren lose herself over the last several years of her relationship, and I’ve had to bite my tongue because she said she was happy. Now that I know she isn’t, I’m going to make sure that changes.
She lifts the pencil.
9. Start reading again
10. Ride Lucky for fun
I point to number ten. “When was the last time you took Lucky out for a trail ride?”
“I honestly couldn’t tell you. The poor guy needs a break just as much as I do. He’s always working.”
“That’s going to change soon.” I give her an encouraging smile. “I like this list. You can always add more to it later if you come up with something, but for now, you should get some sleep, and I should go.”
She pouts. “I’m too tired to go all the way to my room.”
Sighing, I scoop her up and carry her down the hall, setting her on her bed. “There.”
She’s still pouting.
