Page 26 of Holiday Hire

Ace and Wilder guide me to their grandparents' place. Alexander's with his brothers, running horses in a circle inside the corral. He's shouting orders, and sweat soaks the back of his T-shirt.

"I was wondering when I'd see all of you," Ruby's voice interjects, tearing my gaze off her son.

I admit, "There isn't a lot of food in the house."

"Yes, I know, dear," she says with a smile. Then she pats my shoulder and suggests, "Maybe you can help get some basics in their pantry and fridge?"

I nod. "Sure."

We all go into the kitchen. A bowl of mixed fruit, cheese chunks, and nuts sits on the table. The boys grab handfuls of food.

"Did you wash your hands?" I ask.

They freeze.

I point to the sink. "Go on."

They obey, and Ruby gives me a satisfied look. She says, "Help yourself to anything in our home, Phoebe. Our things are yours, so don't hesitate to eat or use what you need. Okay?"

"Thank you," I reply, grateful. The moment I met her, I liked her. She's nice, and clearly a very strong woman. I know she cares a lot about her family.

The boys finish washing their hands, and I take their spot at the sink. I scrub up, dry off, then grab a few raspberries and almonds.

We eat in silence until Ruby says, "I heard you're going to learn to ride today?"

My apprehension reappears. "Is this really a requirement for the job?"

Her lips form a tight smile. She stares at me.

"It is?"

She shakes her head. "No, not a requirement. At least not for me."

"But it is for Alexander?"

Ace chimes in, "You don't have to be scared."

"Yeah, riding is awesome!" Wilder states.

Ruby stares at me, then says, "Boys, go see what your father and uncles are doing. Phoebe will be out soon."

They don't argue, running out of the house.

When the door slams shut, Ruby says, "You know how I told you Alexander will push you to see what you're made of?"

My stomach flips. "Yes."

"This is one of those times."

Silence fills the air.

She continues, "And you remember how I told you that it's always your choice to get pushed or push back?"

"Yes."

"Well, you always have that choice, dear."

I stare at her, finally admitting, "I don't understand how I can push back on this one. He's adamant that I ride in order to take care of the boys."

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