We continue toward the barn area, where most of the demonstrations are happening.
The arena is already packed with spectators.
Inside, Shelby sits tall in the saddle of a chestnut mare while a barrel pattern is set up in the dirt.
A voice over the loudspeaker announces her. “And here we have Wildhaven Storm’s own Shelby Storm showing our future students how a former champion does it.”
The gate swings open.
The horse explodes forward.
Shelby leans low over the saddle horn as they tear toward the first barrel.
The crowd cheers as she whips around it so tight that the horse’s hooves spray dirt toward the stands.
Mom gasps. “Oh my. She’s talented.”
They fly through the pattern in seconds.
By the time Shelby skids to a stop, the stands erupt in applause.
Beyond the arena, another crowd has gathered near the bullpens.
A voice comes over a loudspeaker to announce Axle and Royce Trust.
I glance over just in time to see who I assume to be one of Cabe’s older brothers, whom Harleigh said were currently on the rodeo circuit but who would be helping Bryce at the school from time to time, swing himself onto the back of a massive bull while another man who looks just like him stands nearby with a rope coiled in his hand.
The gate bursts open.
Eight seconds of chaos follows.
The bull twists and bucks while Axle hangs on like he’s glued to the animal.
The crowd roars.
Royce is up the moment Axle exits the pen, rope flying through the air to demonstrate steer roping for the audience.
Mom grips my arm. “These people are fearless.”
“They are,” I agree.
We continue walking toward the main ranch house, where there’s a long line of people waiting near tables covered in drinks.
Earl and Evelyn Storm are sitting comfortably in rocking chairs on the wide front porch, like they’re the king and queen of the ranch.
In front of them sits a large wooden table, stacked with mason jars of lemonade and sweet tea.
A hand-painted sign readsFree.
We climb the porch steps.
Evelyn looks up first.
“Well, hello, Porter,” she says. “Who do you have here?”
I smile. “Evelyn, Earl, this is my mom and dad. Della and Barron Garrison.”
Mom steps forward and extends her hand. “Nice to meet you, Evelyn,” she says warmly. “I’ve heard so much about you.”
