The morning unfolded slowly, naturally.
Brew’s father met them outside, already moving through his routine with a quiet authority that didn’t need explanation. He greeted Randi with a nod that carried more warmth than words, then motioned for them to follow.
“Stay close,” he said simply.
She did.
The horses were closer now, their presence commanding in a way that made her both hesitant and completely captivated.
Braden moved among them with practiced ease, his movements confident, grounded. He spoke softly to one as he adjusted a lead, the animalresponding as if it understood every word.
“You don’t force them,” Brew said quietly beside her. “You earn it.”
Randi watched, something settling deep inside her.
“She’s beautiful but, she was injured,” she said.
“Good eye. We came upon her with a foal. Cougar attack.” Braden replied, glancing at her.
Randi’s face registered the pain she felt for the mare.
“She was protecting her baby.”
“Where’s the foal?”
“Vet is checking on her in the barn.
Luckily, mama stomped the cat to death in time to save it.” He replied.
“Luckily, she stomped the cat to death in time to save it.” He replied.
“The mare was lucky,” Brew responded. “Cougars are powerful predators. The one sheencountered was nearly eight feet and around one hundred-eighty pounds.”
“Lucky for her that you came upon her.”
A large clanging rented the air, and Randi turned her attention on Brew.
“Is that what I think it is?”
Brandon chuckled loudly.
“Some old traditions never change on a farm, and that’s one of them.”
“Breakfast is ready.” Brew chimed.
Breakfast was loud in the best way.
Blythe moved easily between stove and table, setting down plates with a warmth that filled the space, while Brett carried conversation effortlessly, his humor quick, his observations sharper than she expected.
“So,” he said, leaning back slightly as he studied her, “you’re the one who got him to leave the hospital.”
Randi blinked.
“I didn’t realize that was an accomplishment.”
“Oh, it is,” Brett replied. “We’ve been trying for years.”
“Don’t listen to him,” Brew said.
