She grins at me and places her hand on my shoulder. “The last day to submit the application is Friday, then the judges choose who qualifies to compete. I think the grand prize is five grand, and I know you’ve been wanting to start that little catering business, which I fully support. So I think this could help with startup costs. Even though I’ve offered to fund it, I know how proud and independent you are, just like your dad.”

My whole face lights up thinking about what that money could buy for my business. While Grandma has been super supportive, she’s right. I want to do this on my own. It’s the Bishop way.

“So whatcha think?” she asks, beaming.

“It would be an amazing opportunity. And if you think I have a chance, then heck yes, I’ll do it,” I say, and she wraps me in one of her infamous hugs.

When we break apart, she looks me in the eyes. “Honey, I think you’re a shoo-in to win. Plus, once you start your business, there are tons of ladies at church who want to hire you. They’ve got daughters who are getting married, birthday parties, and holiday events that none of them wanna cook for. Don’t blame ’em, though. It’s easier to have someone else do it these days.”

I snort. “You all deserve to be pampered.”

“I’m no spring chicken anymore. It’s why I love my grandbabies so much. Always willing to help.” Grandma pulls a packet of papers from her giant purse and hands it to me. “Here’s everything you need. Turn this into the Chamber before the deadline.”

“Yes, ma’am,” I say, flipping through the big packet. “I’ll make sure I fill it out tonight.”

Grandma waves goodbye, and when she’s out of sight, I let out a loud squeal. I’m smiling so wide my face hurts.

Dad rushes into the dining room and looks spooked. “Are you okay? I heard screaming.”

“Fine, just fine! Grandma thinks I should enter the rodeo’s barbecue contest.” I hand the packet to him, and he flips through it.

“So who’s gonna be on your team?” he asks.

My eyes go wide. “Team?”

“Yeah, it says here you have to put a team together and list their names. It has a place for five to ten people.” He gives the papers back to me, and I scan over them.

“Well damn,” I mutter, and he doesn’t correct me. “Um, you wanna help?”

He chuckles. “Of course, as a last resort, though. You should ask your sister, Rowan, Elle, Riley, Zoey, Knox, Kane, and force Diesel to help too. And if they say no–”

“Then I’ll threaten them,” I say.