Page 10 of Beau

“I’m glad Liz couldn’t have kids now. I’d hate to put them through a divorce.”

“I see it happen at school. Kids take it hard when their parents get a divorce.”

“I’m sure no one likes it when their parents’ divorce, no matter what age.”

“That’s true. So, I know you’re still a livestock agent, but other than that, how have you really been?”

Beau sighed. “Honestly, I’m fine now, but it was a long time coming. I thought we had a good marriage. I guess I should quit thinking.”

“I hated them both for a long time, then I realized I was wasting my time on them. After what they did, they didn’t deserve a second thought.”

“Have you been seeing anyone at all?”

“I’ve dated, but it never went anywhere. I’m too scared, Beau. I’m so afraid of being ripped apart again.”

“I completely understand.”

A few minutes later, Connie set their lunches on the table, winked, and headed back to the kitchen. Brenna toyed with her cup as she tried to think of something to say. They’d been friends for a long time, but their spouses decided to cheat, and she would never forgive either one of them. Not in this lifetime. She knew Beau had to feel the same way.

As they ate their lunches, conversation finally began to flow and soon they were laughing about times they shared. Brenna relaxed and enjoyed her lunch with him.

Once they finished, they walked to the counter, and Beau paid Connie. They walked outside to see it flurrying.

“Well, that’s unexpected,” Brenna said.

“Come on, Brenna. This is Clifton.” Beau grinned.

She laughed. “Yeah, what was I thinking?”

Beau chuckled. “I had a good time.”

“Me too.”

“How about we do it again? No pressure.”

She nodded. “I’d like that.”

“Good. So would I. Can I get your number and I’ll call or text you and we can set up a time and place?”

“Sounds good, Beau.” She gave him her number and he put it into his phone.

“I’ll talk with you soon, Brenna. Have a good day.” He touched the brim of his hat, then strode across the street. She couldn’t take her eyes off his long stride as he headed toward the MDOL offices.

Chapter Two

Monday morning, Beau entered the office, removed his Stetson and hung it on the coatrack next to his coat. The office was bustling with activity, the soft hum of computers and chatter filling the room.

Taking a seat at his desk, Beau opened his computer and began scanning through files. He scanned each document carefully, searching for any clues that could lead him to the missing horse. It was a frustrating task, as there were no recent cases of single animal thefts.

Letting out a sigh, Beau rubbed his temples in frustration. He wanted to find the horse for the Lawrence family, and he intended to do just that.

“Hey.”

Beau looked up from his computer to see his younger brother Luke taking a seat in the chair opposite his desk.

“Hey, what are you up to?” Beau asked, giving Luke a smile.

“Six-four. You?” Luke replied with a grin.

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