Page 52 of Dark Horse

“What kind of help?” My sister grew up in the same family as the rest of us, but she’s a lot like our mother was, more than happy to pretend we were a normal family instead of what we really are. That doesn’t stop her from being constantly suspicious.

“Nothing of the illegal variety. Just a little tipping of the scales for a guy who needs the help.”

“And let me guess, you’re the guy.”

“Nah. Hazel’s brother is the main target.” I nod in Anson’s direction. Despite Bristol’s sideline cheering and support, he appears to be losing the round of horseshoes he’s currently involved in. “I might reap a little side benefit though.”

“I see.” She looks me over like she’s trying to figure out what I’m not telling her. “What do you need?”

“I’m gonna make Dakota disappear for a little bit. She needs a break. She’s working herself to the bone trying to keep everyone happy and make this all fun for Hazel. But she needs food, water, and out of the sun. You know?”

“And you’re going to take care of her? Won’t she bite your head off for that?” The skepticism returns.

“She might bite a little bit. Nothing I can’t take.”

“I don’t see how Anson benefits from this.” Her brow lifts.

“Dakota’s gonna miss a round or so of the game. Give Anson and Bristol a chance to catch up. He really wants to win the vacation for her.”

“Couldn’t he just buy it for her?”

“She’d never take it. She’s too proud. All four of those girls have to do every damn thing themselves.” I tilt my head to the side as I look back at my sister. “You’d know something about that.”

My sister’s lips flatline, and her eyebrow hikes impossibly higher at my mild criticism. Probably not my best timing given I’m asking for her help.

“You’d be doing a lot of favors all around,” I plead with her.

“I’m just trying to figure out how this helps you. It must someway.”

I shrug, but she must see something on my face because hers suddenly morphs into recognition.

“You don’t approve of that guy she’s with this weekend. Do you?”

“Didn’t say that.”

“You don’t have to.” She looks to where the two of them are standing together and then back at me—something dancing behind her eyes I don’t love.

“Can’t I just be worried about her? And yes, maybe a little annoyed he’s not doing a better job watching out for her.”

“You remember you’re not actually related, right?” She gives me another quirk of her eyebrow. I’m half jealous of all she can communicate with that one little arch but annoyed she won’t stop picking at a stone I’d rather not overturn right now.

“Again. Can we quit busting my balls over this and talk about logistics, assuming you’re agreeing?” I grouse.

“What do you need from me?” She relents.

“Just when you see she’s gone, explain that she had a headache from all the sun, and she went to take a rest for a while but didn’t want anyone distracted. Make sure that the last part is clear with Hazel, or she’ll go after her, trying to take care of her. Then Dakota will stress she’s ruining it.”

“Keep Hazel busy. Make things run smoothly. Dakota’s got a headache. Got it.” Aspen’s eyes run over me, still trying to make sense of my motivations.

“They’ve got horseshoes now. Then a scavenger hunt and a game of who knows Hazel best. I’ll bring Dakota back when that’s over. You can text me.”

“It’ll be odd for Dakota not to be at that.”

“Just say she didn’t think it would be fair. Easy.”

“I’m not good at the lying stuff, remember?”

“I know. It’s like you and Ramsey don’t even belong in this family.” I smirk. “But thank you. Anson would thank you himself, and Dakota, too, really.”

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