I glare at her, allowing the silence to pass between us as she stares me down. Unfortunately for her, I’m immune to her act because, at this point, I could write a book on her reactions. The thought has me laughing, which only infuriates her more. “I’ve tamed wild horses, Maize Bishop, and I’ll tame your attitude too. I like a good challenge.”

She scoffs and rolls her eyes at me, but I can tell I’ve gotten under her skin. “Is that a threat or something?” she asks with shakiness in her voice.

“Not a threat, sweetheart. That’s a damn promise,” I confirm, meaning every word. I give her a smirk, then walk away. Before I make it back to Sarah, I grab two waters from an ice chest. I can only imagine how angry Maize is right now, and it fills me with joy knowing I can see through her.

I hand Sarah the water, and she thanks me. When I sit next to her, she scoots closer and leans her head on my shoulder. When I turn around, I catch a glimpse of Maize watching us and chuckle. I’ve got all the goddamn proof I need. She tells me to move on, then is ready to murder me when I invite another woman to join me. One thing is for certain—Maize needs to make up her mind because, at this point, I’m damned if I do and damned if I don’t.

The firework show starts, and it’s incredible. I’ve seen displays this big at rodeos, and I’m amazed they’re able to pull it off so flawlessly. The booms from the mortar shells echo in the distance, and the colors are bright and spectacular. Some crackle and pop while others glitter and fade.

The summer breeze brushes against my skin, and I realize how much I love being on the ranch. It’s been almost a year since I took the job, and I haven’t once regretted it. I’ve found my second family, and I can’t imagine how hard it’s going to be to leave this behind.

When it’s over, the big group of us burst out into applause while some hoot and holler. Considering nearly fifty people are here, it takes a while to tell everyone goodbye. I pick up the blanket, and we walk back to my truck so I can take Sarah home.

“Want to go to the bar and have a drink?” she asks when we climb in, and I start the engine.

“I’d love to, but I have to be up early. Should probably get some sleep.”

She sticks out her bottom lip and pouts as I turn toward her house.

When I pull into the driveway, I park and smile at her. “Thanks again for joining me. That was a lot of fun.”