Her long hair spills down her back beneath a cowboy hat.
Sunlight glints off the silver buckle at her waist.
Even from fifty yards away, I feel that familiar pull in my chest.
Mom notices where my attention has landed.
She smiles knowingly.
Harleigh turns her horse slightly, and our eyes meet across the field.
For a brief second, her lips curve into a secret smile meant only for me.
Then she nudges the horse forward and leads the group toward the tree line.
Dad appears beside me again. “This ranch is incredible,” he says.
The statement surprises me. My father has never seen the potential in rural real estate. Never found them to be profitable enough to be worth the time or money needed to operate a farm or ranch. But there’s something rewarding about working generational land. Getting to know Harleigh and her family has shown me that.
“I told you.”
He nods.
By the time two o’clock rolls around, the crowd has gathered near the makeshift stage set up beside the arena.
Rows of folding chairs fill quickly.
Camera crews take positions.
Dad moves closer to the front, ready for the big introduction.
Onstage stand Matty Storm and Bryce Raintree. Between them stretches a bright red ribbon, tied between two wooden posts.
Dad climbs the steps to join them as one of his female staff members announces him. He takes the giant pair of ceremonial scissors from her and walks over to the microphone.
Albert Storm stands nearby, along with several other ranch hands.
The crowd quiets as Bryce joins Dad at the microphone.
“Thank you all for coming today,” Bryce begins.
He talks about the academy.
About giving young riders a chance to learn the sport and preserving the traditions of rodeo.
Then Matty steps forward.
“This ranch has been in my family a long time,” she says. Her voice cracks with emotion. “And today, we’re proud to open our gates to the next generation of rodeo hopefuls, where we intend to teach not only athletic excellence, but also respect for the animals, the land, and for each other.”
Applause ripples through the crowd.
Dad’s voice rises next. “Hello,” he says. “I’m Senator Barron Garrison, and it’s my pleasure to be here today to represent the leaders of the great state of Wyoming.”
The crowd claps.
“Without further ado, let’s make it official.”
He turns to Bryce. “The state of Wyoming and the town of Wildhaven are proud to welcome you and declare this academy open for business.”
