Page 52 of When the Smoke Clears

“What kind of things are you thinking?” Kelly perks up. He’s the oldest of the group, and the steadiest, too. I know he was injured when he was younger running the rodeo circuit, but I’ve never asked for details. I’m not sure what else he’s gotten into.

I share with them some of the things I’ve brought up with my dad, including guided hunts. “Maci also thought it could be beneficial to add opportunities for the public to stay on the ranch in private areas, and possibly participate in what we do.”

“Like a dude ranch?” Jason asks, brows furrowed.

I chuckle. “That’s what I said. But she had some good points. It makes us a destination and gives people a better idea of what we do. They pay us to be manpower. Granted, each time would be new for them, and more like teaching than actually having efficient help.”

Kelly hums. “I don’t think it’s a bad idea. There’d be things to figure out, for sure.” As an afterthought he adds, “What about a venue?”

I cock my head in question.

He continues. “Special events. Terrence has several semi-permanent structures set up. They have power and sound systems. I think a couple have big-ass fans, too. If you aren’t planning to take on horses, we can repurpose what’s there for special events. Weddings, team building, corporate events. It could tie into the dude ranch idea or not. It may compete with the fairgrounds, but that’s their problem.”

“Fuck, that’s genius.” Cody stares ahead vacantly.

I breathe a laugh at his response. “I hadn’t thought of that. I like it. Certainly something to work with.”

Kelly nods a thanks.

As the meeting continues, I feel better having them actively participate in planning for the future. After we finish, I’m torn between heading into The Big House or finding Maci. She’s the first person I wanted to tell the good news to, despite already being at the bunkhouse and diving straight into our meeting.

Fate works in my favor, because as soon as I step inside, still undecided who I want to talk to first, Maci’s voice floats down the hall. She and Mama are talking in the kitchen.

A few steps into the hallway, Maci’s beautiful head pops out from the kitchen. She grins and my heart beats faster. I will never tire of seeing her throughout the day.

“I thought I heard you come in.”

“Came to see my favorite women.” I wrap her in my arms and plant a kiss on her head. She wraps her own arms around my midsection, holding snug.

Mama smiles proudly behind her.

“Where’s Dad?”

“Right here.” My dad steps into the hallway from the living room.

Maci pulls back, but I keep hold of a hand.

“Good. Everyone got a minute?” I look between the three.

Mama’s eyebrows jump.

“Sure. We need to sit down?” Dad gestures to the dining room.

“Yeah, let’s talk for a few.” I motion for Mama to lead the way, and Dad follows suit.

Maci smiles softly at me. “I’ll let you three chat.” She shifts toward the kitchen entrance, but I squeeze her hand, drawing her attention back.

“Where do you think you’re going?”

She freezes. “I thought—”

“This pertains to you, too. You said you want to know more about the ranch, that you want this life.” My chest aches at her pleased face. I jerk my chin toward the dining room and pull her before me to the table.

“You’re doing that thing again.” Her voice is quiet. I’m not sure she meant for me to hear.

“What thing?”

Her green eyes meet mine over her shoulder. “Leading by following.”

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