Page 35 of Loving Decker

“There’s nothing better than a woman and her horse tearing it up in the middle of the arena.”

“You trying to butter up Faith so you can get some of her pies? Or are you after something else over here, little brother?” Decker stepped around the corner, his smile big and his hat bigger.

“Oh, I’m just getting her ready for you. And I’m always open for pie.” He winked. “Good to see you again, Faithy.”

“You too, Nash.”

Decker surprised her by pulling her into his arms, close, like he might kiss her without even thinking about it. “You are a beautiful woman.”

“Thank you.” She laughed. “Where did that come from?”

“I’m just not sure I’ve told you enough. And seeing you like this. Wow, you’re doing something to this rodeo man.”

“Oh yeah? And what am I doing?”

“Making me forget why I’m here, for one.” He pulled her closer. “It’s good to see you.”

“Isn’t this fun! Everyone back, ready to ride. I’m really excited. Is Maverick gonna announce or ride?”

“I think he’s doing both, with Randall taking over for the bull riding event.”

“Oh, that’s gonna be something.”

“We made him promise not to remind anyone that selling Willow Creek land is the best idea.”

“That’s probably a good idea.”

He reached for her hand. “You walking off the jitters?”

“How did you know?”

“It’s what you do. You’ve been doing it for years. Shall we walk your route?”

“My route?”

“Sure. You walk along behind all the stalls, along the animal pens, past the cotton candy without ever buying any, and then back.”

“Well, alright then. Sounds like you know where to lead me.”

They talked of nothing and everything, and Faith felt like she was back in high school for a brief moment. And then they heard the music and the announcer hyping the crowd, and they knew it was time to find their place with the family until their events.

Faith went to go sit by Grace. Mama Dawson was there as well. “Oh, honey, I’m so happy to see you. Grace tells me you’re riding!”

“Yes, ma’am. I’m excited too. It’s gonna be the most amazing day I’ve had in a long time. Even if I knock over a barrel.”

“Oh, you won’t. You’re too good for that.“ Grace seemed certain. And Faith appreciated her confidence.

Then Nash came and sat on Faith’s other side. “Faithy.”

“Nash.”

The music started for the national anthem, and everyone stood. Faith put her hand on her heart. One of the students from Willow Creek High sang the words while everyone reverently watched the flag. Then Maverick’s voice filled the arena. “Welcome to the Willow Creek benefit rodeo!”

Everyone cheered and screamed like this was the best thing to ever happen to them.

“We’d like to offer a special thank you to our sponsors. We have a new platinum line up, led by Newhope Developing.”

The crowd grew more subdued, but then Maverick announced Sam’s Burgers and Mabel’s Donuts, and everyone went crazy again.

---