Since their cousin Ethan left to finish his senior year of college, they’ve been shorthanded. Well, not really, but they were just used to slacking while Ethan was home for the summer.

“I really can’t wait to train horses,” Grayson mutters, popping the rest of his biscuit into his mouth.

“Why? Horse shit ain’t much different than cattle shit.” Riley snorts. “You’ll be cleaning barns either way.”

“I know, genius. But at least with horses, I’m bonding with them as I train and ride. Cows couldn’t care less if you’re around, and I’d argue that their shit is very different. Ever step in cow shit?”

Riley chuckles.

“Sorry to say, Grayson, but you aren’t leaving me for a while,” Diesel tells him with a crooked grin. “I need your assistance with all my bitch work.”

Grayson rolls his eyes, and I wave before the three of them head toward the door. I’m fortunate enough to make my own schedule as long as I get my work done each week. Jackson and Kiera focus on their tasks, and I focus on mine.

Since the dining room is empty, I look for any opportunity to get into the kitchen with Maize. I notice the dirty dish tub is full and decide to take it back there. She can’t yell at me if I’m helping.

I peek through the little window in the door to see if she’s alone. When her employees are nowhere to be found, I kick it open and waltz in. Maize immediately spins around and pins me in place with a death glare.

“What do you think you’re doin’?” She scowls, putting her hands on her hips. It’s the cutest fucking thing ever.

“Helpin’ you with these,” I explain, glancing down at all the dirty dishes. “I’m a gentleman, ya know?” I set the tub by the dishwasher and spin around to face her.

“I didn’t ask for your help, so you can leave,” she tells me sternly.

“What’s your problem, Maize Bishop?” I cross my arms over my chest and narrow my eyes. “You throw daggers at me like you hate me or something.”

“I never said I hated you.”

I take a step toward her. “So you like me then?”

Her nostrils flare. “Definitely didn’t say that either.”

“Then what is it? It’s either one or the other.”

“I don’t know you well enough to have an opinion.” She takes a step back as I inch closer.

Smirking, I continue, “Now that’s not true. I think you know me quite well. You’re just afraid to admit it.”

“I honestly have no idea what you’re talkin’ about. As I’ve said before, you must have me confused with someone else.”

I shake my head in amusement. “Trust me, Maize. I’d never forget you. Or our night together.”