Page 51 of Loving Decker

“That bad?”

“Let’s just say I am beginning to see why you want to sell so badly.”

His oldest brother came in and sat opposite his desk. “Is there anything else we can do? I don’t really want to sell at all. I just haven’t thought of any other option.”

“I don’t know, besides filing a loss with the government and receiving some stimulus programs for ranchers and landowners…” He knew that wouldn’t sit well with his brother.

“No way. We aren’t going to be encouraging government handouts to people like us who have enough.”

Decker nodded. “Then I really don’t know how we can do anything but sell.” He sighed. “And I don’t know how I’m gonna feel watching Dad’s land be bulldozed. What’s it gonna be like to look out over the Haws property and see houses?”

Mav rubbed a hand over his face. “I don’t like it any more than you. But we’ve tried sponsorships, rodeo wins. Those lasted for a good while, keeping us afloat, getting our cattle brand out there. But Nash is the only one going pro right now, and he’s good, but…”

Nash showed up in the doorway. “But not good enough?”

“You’re good enough. But there’s only one of you.”

Decker shook his head. “Nash, man, you’re winning all the time. You’re doing awesome. But this is much deeper than that. We have piles of expenses just to keep this place going.”

“Well, I’m heading out again this afternoon.”

They both perked up at that news. “Where to?”

“Just found out about another opportunity in Kentucky.” He shrugged. “Last time there was some good money out there. And I’ll be showing Dawson Ranch colors. Maybe bring in some more customers.”

“Good work, brother. By the time you get back, we might have signed papers to sell. What’s your vote?”

“I’m still thinking we should sell. It’s the only way Willow Creek will stay afloat or relevant in our lives. What kind of place we hoping to raise our children in? There won’t be a main street if no one wants to stay here. What’s the point of beautiful land if you’re the only one living here?” He shrugged. “But I know you will make the best choice for us all. Thanks, brothers. Now I’m off to be the youngest irresponsible cuss and compete in some rodeo while you do the hard stuff.” He dipped his head.

“Win big,” Decker called as his brother headed back down the hallway.

“You know it.”

Decker turned back to Mav. “Something’s not sitting right.”

“Which part?” Mav nodded at him to continue.

“Randall. What’s he getting out of this?”

His older brother shrugged. “I don’t know? Commission probably.”

“But that’s really not a lot. Not worth all the effort he’s putting in here. I wonder if he gets a percentage or something.” He frowned. “Do you have copies of the contracts?”

“Yep. I emailed everyone.”

“Oh, right. Sorry, dude. Do you ever feel like everything is solely on your head and we just walk around complaining?”

“All the time. It’s okay, brother. Pull it up. Let’s take a look.”

As soon as Decker’s email was open, his inbox dinged.Botts and Lindel. The subject line read, “Offer enclosed.”

His heart pounded with equal parts happiness and nerves. Why were they sending him an offer?

Mav came around and saw it right away. “What’s this?”

“I don’t know. It’s not something I applied for or asked for…well, not since that time a few years ago when I was gonna move out there, remember? They’ve been in contact ever since.”

“You gonna take this?”

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