Page 124 of Downpour

Gracie reached for an ear of corn. “So, it’s not all or nothing?”

I shook my head. “It’s not all or nothing. Very few things in life are.”

The conversation quickly shifted to the progress of the lodge and restaurant. Cassandra had been caught in the middle between the investors of the development, the local authorities who believed they had a say in the property’s easement, and the construction crews.

It was a logistical nightmare.

“How close are we to launching the equine program?” I asked.

Cassandra wiped her lips. “The website and social media platforms are ready, but I’m waiting until I finalize the program schedule.”

Becks frowned. “Why haven’t you finalized the schedule yet?”

Cassandra pointed at Christian and CJ. “Until I can get those two to set aside time in their schedules to run the program, progress will be slow.”

“I can help if you need an extra hand,” Brooke offered as she refilled her plate from the pile in the middle. “I don’t have much else going on at the moment.”

CJ glanced at Cassandra. “She’s the one I would hire for it.”

“High praise from Mr. Nobody Sets Foot on My Ranch,” I teased.

“I’m just saying,” CJ replied. “If someone has to do it, it should be her.”

“It’s not just hanging out in the barn all day,” Cassandra countered.

Brooke’s eyes ping-ponged between them.

Cassandra looked from CJ to Brooke. “I need someone who can schedule boarding and grooming appointments, coordinate with the farrier and veterinarian, set up and run beginner programs, and be the ranch’s liaison for school field trips?—”

“We’re having field trips?” Brooke gasped.

I loved the “we” that came out of her mouth.

Christian looked at Cass. “I think we found our hire.”

Brooke crossed her fingers under the table.

I sat back and draped my arm over her shoulders. “As her former employer, I’m happy to provide a letter of reference.”

Cassandra rolled her eyes. “Of course you are.” She turned her terrifying gaze to Brooke. “My office. Tomorrow. Nine in themorning. Don’t be late. Be prepared to sit still and learn the scheduling software. And I do not tolerate small talk.”

Brooke smirked. “I think you’ll come around.”

Cassandra glared. “I guarantee you, I will not.”

Christian lifted his beer to Brooke. “Welcome to the ranch.”

Brooke glowed as everyone raised their glasses and toasted her. I tapped my glass against hers. “I wouldn’t want you anywhere else.”

30

BROOKE

“You know, I didn’t expect the annoying part of training Brooke to be you lingering in my office,” Cassandra said as she glared at Ray.

Ray had parked his wheelchair on the other side of Cassandra’s desk and had resorted to asking her if I was done for the day every five minutes.

I snickered under my breath and tried to stay focused on the calendar Cassandra and I were setting up.

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