He passes the scissors to Bryce, and he and Matty lift them together.
The ribbon stretches tight between them.
“Three … two … one.”
The blades close.
The ribbon snaps.
Cheers explode across the property.
The Raintree-Storm Rodeo Academy is officially open.
Reporters push forward, snapping photos as Matty and Bryce shake hands.
To my surprise, Dad looks genuinely charmed.
He chats with Albert.
He laughs with Boone.
He compliments the ranch.
Mom and I exchange a quiet glance.
Because this reaction?
Neither of us expected it.
I hope it’s genuine and not just an act for the cameras.
Dad has always been … particular about people.
But right now, he seems completely taken with the Storm family and everything they’ve built here.
And honestly?
That’s a very good thing.
Because tomorrow morning …
I’m going to sit down with him.
And I’m going to suggest something that might raise a few eyebrows at the Belicourt.
Updating the company’s employee fraternization policy.
Mom already knows why.
She’s known for weeks. But Harleigh and I have done everything we can to keep it quiet at the hotel. Stolen glances. Brief touches as we pass in the hallway. Standing close in the elevator.
I don’t think anyone suspects we’re more than co-workers.
Except maybe Diana.
Miss Fairchild has stepped up her game. She clearly believes she has some sort of special claim to my attention. I never really noticed it before, but I guess it’s always been that way. I just didn’t mind until now. The possessiveness … the flirting … it all needs to stop.
So, it’s time to go public with Miss Storm.
