Page 30 of Lilly's Little Labor Day

Edward could get used to this place.

Stepping out of his Porsche, he smiled as he took in the scenic, rustic beauty Montana offered.

His car looked a bit out of place. Perhaps a Jeep or pickup would have been more in order. Maybe even an ATV.

He made a mental note to see if the Ranch had ATVs for use. A bit of rugged adventure sounded fun.

Maybe that would finally allow him to escape Lilly’s grasp. She’d had ahold of his mind for the past several months.

Adventure won’t do it, bud. I need to find a precious Little of my own. Someone to hold. To protect. To cherish.

Even then, though, Edward wasn’t so sure he could outrun Lilly.

That wouldn’t keep him from giving it his best shot. And what better place to try than Rawhide Ranch?

“Edward,” a voice called.

Edward spun around to see Derek Hawkins headed his way. They had spoken multiple times via video conferences. They’d emailed and texted a dozen more. Derek was eager to help him find a Little of his own. Edward didn’t think it was solely about the money he’d donated, either. He suspected Derek took pride in making Littles’ and Bigs’ dreams come true.

The men shook hands. “Welcome to Rawhide Ranch. I’m glad you’re finally here. Please, follow me. Let’s chat in my office.”

A few minutes later, the men were seated in the spacious office, but not at the desk. They occupied the couch and a chair that made up the sitting area.

“You want anything to drink? I have some bourbon I think you’d like.”

“I’d love some,” Edward said. “Thank you.”

Derek got up but returned a moment later with two tumblers. He handed one to his guest and then took his seat once again.

“You came at just the right time,” Derek said.

“The place seems packed,” Edward noted. “Lot going on?”

“Holidays are a big deal around here. Labor Day is no exception. It’s our kickoff to fall. We have so much this time of year. Before you know it, pumpkins—and pumpkin spice—will be everywhere. The Littles will be excited for Halloween and then Thanksgiving and Christmas. Time goes by so fast.”

“Tell me about it,” Edward said before taking a sip of bourbon. He looked at it and nodded his approval.

“I thought you’d like that,” Derek said. He took a drink of his and then continued, “But before we get to all those other holidays, this weekend is going to be great. We have activities going on that culminate with our big community cookout on Monday. We’ll have sack races and other games. Plenty of food and fun. It’s all the Littles can talk about.”

Edward chuckled. He liked being in a place where Littles were so openly discussed. He’d like it even more when he was among them, seeing all the cuties as they had fun.

“But that’s not why you came at the perfect time,” Derek said.

“Oh?”

“No.”

Both men tossed back the rest of their drinks. Finally, Derek leaned forward, locking eyes with Edward.

“I found her. The perfect one for you.”

Excitement coursed through Edward’s veins. He knew nothing was set in stone. But he trusted Derek and his abilities. If Derek felt he’d found the perfect Little for Edward, then there was at least potential. It was certainly worth exploring.

“Who is she?” Edward said.

He felt foolish. He was nearly speechless. His heart was racing.

What if she’s the one? What if I’m about to meet my precious girl?

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