“Like what to do in a drought, the difference in big round bales and small ones when it comes to feeding in the winter, when to plow, and when to expect the cows to start dropping calves. Then there’s the stories they tell about when they were young men just starting out and all the hardships and the good times they had,” Beau answered.

Sonny took his place at the end of the table and hung his cane on the back of the chair. “You are a smart kid to know how to listen and learn.”

“Thank you for that, sir, but sometimes, I’m not so smart when it comes to patience. I’m learning, but it’s sure not easy. When does that happen?” Beau pulled out a chair for Mia and seated her before he sat down.

“You’ll have to ask someone older than me,” Sonny chuckled.

When everyone was settled into their places, Addy said, “Sonny, will you say grace for us?”

“I thought maybe Beau could do that for us,” Sonny answered with just a hint of a smile on his face.

Stevie had no doubt this was a test, but Beau simply smiled and said, “It would be an honor.” He bowed his head and said a short grace, thanking God for the beautiful day, the family, and the hands that prepared the meal. When he said, “Amen,” Sonny was nodding, and Mia was smiling, even though her face was slightly red.

“Thank you, son,” Sonny said. “Now, let’s get this food passed around the table. I do love me some good ham. Tomorrow, I bet that Addy uses the ham bone to make us up a pot of red beans.”

“You are so right,” Addy said, “and some fried potatoes and whatever is left over from today’s dinner to go with them.”

“Do you put the ham bone in when you start the beans or wait until you add water the first time?” Beau asked.

“From the beginning,” Addy answered.

“And you always save the bacon drippings from breakfast to use for the potatoes,” Mia added.

“That’s what Mama taught me, but I’ve never used ham for red beans. I bet Grandpa would love them fixed that way.” Beau took the sweet potato casserole from Mia and scooped out a portion onto his plate. “Would it be all right if Mia shows me around the ranch after dinner? I’d love to see the alpacas and get a tour of the place.”

“Of course,” Sonny answered.

“Another test passed with flying colors,” Cody whispered for Stevie’s ears only.

“Why’s that?” Stevie asked.

“Because he asked permission,” Cody said out the corner of his mouth. “Mia’s got a keeper there.”

Stevie gave him a brief nod, and wondered if she had a keeper in Cody, or if this thing between them was just a flash in the pan.

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Seventeen