Lavon emerged from behind the counter, wiping his hands on a towel. “Drundeg and cheese biscuits will be out soon,” he announced to the room at large, though his eyes found Aunt Inla. “You said you wanted to try them, Inla.”
Her cheeks darkened. “How thoughtful of you to remember.”
“I remember everything.” The quiet intensity in his voice made me raise my eyebrows. This was definitely not professional courtesy.
“They’re doing that again,” Beth whispered from across the table, nodding toward the pair. “They’ve been dancing around each other since he got here. I understand they knew each otherwhen they were young, but his family moved to a different cavern, and they lost touch.”
I smiled. “They’re cute together.”
“Mmm.” Beth shifted in her chair, wincing as she rubbed her lower back. “If by cute you mean frustratingly oblivious to what everyone else can see.”
“Are you okay?” I noticed the lines of discomfort around her eyes.
“The baby’s restless today. Pressing on my spine.” She adjusted position again, grimacing. “Ruugar says he’s a warrior already, practicing battle kicks.”
“Or she,” Rosey chimed in. “Could be a female warrior.”
“Either way, they’re determined to make their presence known.” Beth laughed, and we all joined in.
Ruugar appeared behind her chair, his large hands settling on her shoulders. “Need anything, breela?”
The tenderness in his voice struck me, as did the way Beth immediately relaxed under his touch, leaning back against him. “I’m okay. Our youngling’s reminding me they’ll soon be ready for the next adventure.”
“Takes after their father.” He kissed the top of her head.
My phone vibrated in my pocket, the screen lighting up with a number I didn’t recognize. California area code. I frowned, then suddenly remembered. Wildwind Ranch, the prestigious rodeo operation I’d applied to months ago, before Lonesome Creek was even on my radar. My dream job at the time.
“Excuse me,” I said, sliding away from the table. “I need to take this.”
Becken’s questioning gaze followed me as I walked to the stairs, settling on the bottom step for some semblance of privacy in the crowded saloon.
“Carla Smith speaking.”
“Ms. Smith, this is Victoria Wildwind from Wildwind Ranch.” The voice on the other end sounded brisk, professional. “I’m calling about your application for our rodeo management position.”
My heart skipped. “Yes, of course.”
“I apologize for the delay in getting back to you. We’ve had quite the selection process.” She cleared her throat. “I’m pleased to inform you that we’d like to offer you the position. Your credentials are impressive, and your references spoke highly of your work.”
The words I’d been waiting to hear for years. The opportunity I’d worked toward my entire career. With success at one of the most prestigious operations in the country, my consulting plan would be set.
Six months ago, I would’ve leaped up and hopped around with excitement. Now, my first thought was of Becken. Of the community gathered around the big breakfast table nearby.
“That’s…wonderful news,” I said, my voice sounding distant.
“We’d need you to start by January 30th. The salary is as discussed in your preliminary interview, with benefits starting after ninety days. We do expect at least a one-year commitment.” Papers rustled on her end. “I’ll have my brother send over the formal offer letter today, but I wanted to call personally. We’re excited to have someone with your expertise joining us.”
“Thank you, Ms. Wildwood. I appreciate the opportunity.” The words came out automatically, muscle memory taking over while my emotions churned through me.
“Call me Victoria, please. Assuming you say yes, we’ll be working closely together.” More paper shuffling. “Take some time to review the offer if you’d like, but we’ll need your decision by Friday at the latest. I understand it’s the holidays, but these things move quickly. We do have other stellar candidates.”
“I understand. I’ll review everything as soon as it comes through.”
After a few more minutes of details and pleasantries, we ended the call, and I tucked my phone into my pocket.
My dream job, the position I’d pursued relentlessly. The stability and professional recognition I’d craved to top off my resume. A year at Wildwind, and I could step back and launch my consulting career. The life I craved was suddenly within my reach.
Why did it feel like a loss rather than a gain?
