Page 63 of Brands

But I have to take a stand, make a move, prove that I’m able to be in charge of my own future, even if it’s not the one my father wants for me.

There’s only one variable that couldcost me everything.

Blue.

Chapter Twenty-one

Blue

My skin itches wantingto get back to her. But instead, under Clay’s supervision, I had to drive away.

I wasn’t lying about needing to swing by the livestock auction yard. It’s standard practice that I have to go and double check brands, especially with the rash of cattle theft in the last few years.

But not having to unload these girls is the best feeling.

I can be Libby’s hero, and that makes a spot deep in my chest warm up with an unfamiliar sensation.

It’s like a low frequency current is rippling through my limbs as I go through the motions of my job.

She’s distracting in the best way. Knowing I’m going to get to see her in just a few hours makes me want to rush.

Until I fuck up on a form twice. I gotta slow down and get my shit right.

This just feels like an inconvenience, keeping me from her.

So when I’m back on the road heading to Black Gulch, it’s as if a weight has been lifted.

I don’t remember ever feeling this…giddy before.

Driving down the long dirt lane leading to the main ranch house, it’s impossible to wipe the stupid ass grin off my face. There’s enough snow melted off I can turn around easily and back the trailer up to the entrance of the barn.

“Look, Paisley. It’s Millie!” Char points at the dark dun Jersey that steps out first.

As if she knows her name, the old cow ambles towards the fence where Char and her daughter are standing.

The rest of the small herd mill against the far end, a little more wary in the new space.

“Millie, moo!” Paisley claps her hands, jumping up and down.

They all startle when I close up the doors to the trailer.

“You can use that alfalfa.” Char nods to the pile in the corner. “I had Dixon put it there for Libby.” She rubs her extended abdomen. “I’m not allowed to lift anything heavy, or I’d help.” Her mouth droops into a frown.

“I’d say twins is heavy lifting enough.” I grab a bale and break it open in the trough.

It only takes a moment before ten broad heads are buried in the fluffy pungent hay.

“Yea, well, I shouldn’t complain. My pregnancy has been relatively easy. It just irritates me when I can’t do the same things I’m used to.” Her fingers trail over Paisley’s curly head. “Is Libby on her way? Standing for any lengthof time is also becoming something I’m missing.” She gives a soft chuckle before threading her hands together under her generous baby bump.

I slide out my phone and check Libby’s last text. “Yep, she should be pulling in any—”

The crunch of gravel makes us all look up, even Millie.

“Blue?” Char pauses, chewing on her lower lip. “Don’t break her heart, ‘kay?”

That takes a little bit of the wind out of my sails.

All I can think about is Libby.

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