“Not that I’m an expert or anything, because I’m not, but I can tell you that when I met your mom, I pushed her away as much as I could because I wasn’t ready for a relationship. Sometimes though, you find the person you’re supposed to be with when you least expect it. Your mom was only supposed to be here for a little while, and I didn’t want to get involved with someone who didn’t have roots here. My heart did what it wanted, and I fell so madly in love with her that I couldn’t deny her anymore. The point is, you gotta be willing to give people a chance. I know Timothy broke your heart. I know it destroyed you, and I’ve also noticed how you’ve rejected every single man who’s been interested since then. But honey, in the long run, you’re only hurting yourself.”

My eyes soften when I look at him, and I’m so emotional I almost burst into tears. He notices and opens his arms, and I fall into them. I’ll never be too old for my daddy’s hugs. “Thank you,” I tell him.

“I love you so much, sweetie. And if your grandma doesn’t get more great-grandkids, she might freak the hell out. I’d like some grandkids of my own one day too. No pressure, though.” He gives me a wink and presses start on the tea maker.

“I’ll bring it out once it’s done brewing,” I say, feeling the weight sitting heavily on my heart.

Once Dad is out of sight, I know exactly what I have to do, so I text Gavin.

Chapter Sixteen

GAVIN

I’m knee-deep in mud and frustrated as hell. Jackson and I struggle to capture one of the new wild horses in the pasture that’s transformed into a playa lake. We’ve gotten a shit ton of rain lately, and it’s caused a huge mess for us. Doesn’t help this horse is an asshole and doesn’t follow instructions. “C’mon, Lacey. Let’s go,” I beg softly, ready to go home and shower.

“I think her foot is stuck,” Jackson says, sticking his arm down and reaching for her hoof. “Gimme just a second.”

As I tightly hold her halter, Jackson tries to get her free.

“Ah, I think I got it.”

As soon as his words come out, Lacey becomes more agitated. Quickly, I tighten my grip before she hurts one of us.

“Alright, girl. You’re okay.” I smooth my palm down her nose.

Jackson stands and shakes his hand, whipping muddy slop all over me.

“Ugh, thanks.” I wipe mud from the only clean part of my shirt. At this point, my clothes need to be thrown out.

“Sorry.” He chuckles. “Hazards of the job.”

“So I’ve learned.”