“What was?”
I laugh, thinking about how she was so strategic in certain parts of this whole event. I didn’t see it at the time, and I also didn’t have the time to invest in planning the rodeo.
I’ve been busy trying to make sales as well as help Gary with running the farm. Without Travis, and having to let go of one of my ranch hands, it’s been me picking up the slack, exercising the animals as well as doing other chores.
“She thought it would be a good idea to have other ranchers come. Not just guys who have bought from me before, but local breeders who would be able to see the ranch, know the conditions, and be at least able to speak to what they’ve seen.” She was right. “I didn’t think they’d come.”
Everett scoffs. “Please, for them to get a chance to see your operation up close and be able to gossip? That’s their favorite thing. Also, they all hate Owen at Longwood Ranch, so they will love proving he’s a fucking liar.”
That makes sense. Still, I didn’t think it would be a good idea. I didn’t want a bunch of assholes who have spread the rumors to be able to come here and make my life hell.
I was wrong.
“Hopefully it works.”
“I think it already has. You got a few horses sold, and I’m pretty sure more will come.”
“Yeah,” I say with a grin. “I hope you’re right.”
“Keep listening to Tessa, and maybe you’ll get out of this mess for good. When does she head back?”
Soon. Way too fucking soon. When I last spoke to Brynlee, she told me that Tessa would stay on until the rodeo and now that’s over.
Well, almost.
“And that’s the end of our evening, folks. Thanks for coming out to the rodeo here on Ivy Thorn Ranch. We hope you had a good night, don’t forget to check out the vendors and we’ll see you again soon!” The announcer says and a loud round of applause fills the air.
I turn to Everett. “She was staying until this was over.”
Something like sympathy flashes across his face. “I see.”
“See what?”
“She’s going to leave,” he says. “I just…hope that you guys are at least honest with each other before she goes.”
“We are honest,” I say quickly.
“Oh? Is that what we’re calling it? Okay then.” Everett slaps me on the back. “In that case, I need to find my wife.”
I raise one brow. “She hasn’t made that mistake yet.”
“We’re practically married. We’re living together and having a baby,” he grumbles. “At least I’m deeply in touch with my feelings, I’m not living in denial.”
I roll my eyes. “Shouldn’t you be getting home to Violet? I’m sure she’s anxiously awaiting your arrival.”
Violet is about eight months pregnant and pretty much over everything.
“I should. Anyway, this has been fun. I’ll see you in a few days?”
I nod. “I’ll see you at practice. Thanks again, Everett.”
“Of course. Remember, we’re best friends.”
Right. “How could I forget?” I tease.
We shake hands and I make the rest of the walk, having to dodge the crowd of people heading to their cars.
It takes me about fifteen minutes to get into the arena, dreading the amount of work that’s going to be required to break down everything.
