“The brat hasn’t texted me all day. Not even to ask me about the horse sale or anything,” she exclaimed. “What’s the point of getting a new phone if she doesn’t use it. I thought teens stayed glued to those suckers.”
“Relax,” Garrett chuckled. “Julio texted earlier. They all went for a horseback ride at the ranch, and he wanted to know if Tara might spend the night with Kara at their house. Rachel, Matthew, Mac, Delaney, and Kara’s parents gathered there and they’re having a s’mores night. Delaney brought board games and build-your-own burritos.”
Riley’s mouth firmed. “We don’t know those people. I know they’re nice, but my dad was once, too.”
“Before I applied for the job, I did some asking around. They’re good people and very protective. I’m not sure about Julio and Rebecca’s story, but they came home one day with Megan. The little girl has seen some trauma. They don’t let her out of their sight when they go to town. They even carry a baby monitor when she naps because of her delicate condition.”
Riley leaned forward, setting her menu down. “Megan’snot their child?” she asked, surprised. “She looks a lot like Rebecca.”
Garrett shrugged. “I don’t know the story. Tara will want to stay with Kara. They’re very close with her, too. Her dad’s a hard worker and very respectful. When’s the last time you enjoyed a night alone without Tara?”
“I don’t. She’s my responsibility,” Riley said firmly.
“How about we make a deal? If Tara calls you and texts at least once before she goes to bed, will you at least consider it?” he asked. “Besides, you’ll be at the barn, keeping me company while I get the horses settled.”
Riley scrunched her nose and gazed at the menu while she chewed on his compromise. “I guess it’ll do,” she said finally. “We’ll pick her up first thing in the morning.”
“Matthew will bring her down after breakfast. He wants to see the new horses,” he informed her.
“Will you keep your pick and give the ranch the grey?” she asked, as her gaze moved to the trailer.
“These two will be mine,” he told her. “You never know when you’ll need a second one. Plus, I want to keep one on the other side of the property.”
“Why?” she asked.
“Because it’s extremely hot and I don’t like to work a horse in the heat. Even with preventative measures, it can ruin a good one. This place has a bunch of acres, and I’m responsible for half of it,” Garrett explained as the waitress came over and greeted them.
“Hey, Garrett. Do you want the usual?” Maggie asked, taking out her pad and pen.
“Hey Maggie. Yeah. Can we place a catering order for Sunday? I have a crew of about twenty men. They deserve a treat,” he said, accepting the water from her.
“I’ll write it up for Ben. He’ll be pleased as punch to havea big order. It’s slow right now. He’s hoping the tourists will discover him by placing an ad in the paper. I keep telling him they don’t read papers anymore,” the waitress told him. “What can I get you, honey?”
“May I have the brisket platter with sweet potato fries and an iced tea?” Riley asked.
“She has good taste,” the waitress said, winking at her. “Did you want a beer?” she asked Garrett.
“No, thank you. I’m driving with a load tonight,” he told her, passing her the menus. The waitress left to fill their orders.
“Maggie’s stayed with them since they opened the joint. She comes in early and makes pies and cobblers. We never know what we’re getting, but no one complains,” he said, taking her hand and checking her fingers. “How do you feel?”
“It’s the best day ever. Thank you for bringing me along,” she said shyly. “Who would’ve thought you hitting me with your truck might lead us here?”
Maggie set the drinks down and walked away.
“Does it sound weird if I say I wish I hit you earlier?” he teased.
Riley barked out a laugh. “It’s a good thing I have a hard head.”
“You’ll get no argument from me,” he said, holding his hands up in the air. “When we return home, do you want to sit on the hay bales while I tend to the horses, or do you want me to drop you off at the cabin?”
“Don’t be silly,” she said, taking a sip of her drink.
Maggie set two plates before them and slapped a dessert menu down on the table. “You’d better hurry if you want a pan of cobbler. I’ve got peach or cherry.”
Garrett glanced at Riley, letting her decide.
“Cherry, please.”
