Page 46 of Loved By Tandy

“You’re all the family I have left, and the way that Beau talks, you are a fantastic ranch hand. I need a good cowboy for this job. I’d draw up paperwork making us equal partners in the endeavor.”

He scratches his head. “It’s tempting.”

“And even though I’m having a house built, if there is a spot you like better, I can have another place built, exactly how you like it. You can fence off a few acres to have your own space.”

His lips curve into a smile. “You are trying really hard to convince me.”

“I am. It would mean the world to me if you partnered with me.” I inch closer to Matthew. “This guy has been a huge help with the construction out here, but he doesn’t want to run a ranch. After this job, he’s going to retire for real. Am I right?”

Matthew tucks an arm around my waist. “Plan to. Might do a little matching on the side.”

Dallas laughs. “As long as that isn’t part of my job, I’ll take it.” He sticks out his hand.

I ignore the hand and throw my arms around him. “Your mama would be so happy.”

“She would. I can almost see her smiling from up above. Family meant everything to her.” Dallas sighs. “This isn’t what I expected. And I’m not even sure how to break the news to Beau, Clint, and Garrett. But this is perfect for me. I’d be a fool to turn down the opportunity.”

“Want to see the ranch?” Matthew hooks a thumb toward the truck.

Dallas grins. “Absolutely.”

My sister would be thrilled to know that Dallas and I are staying connected with more than just the occasional phone call. Our parents left a lot to be desired, but as sisters go, she was a great one, years younger, but awesome none the less. It’s been years since her death, and I still miss her.

CHAPTER 18

MATTHEW

As I drive, Tandy tells Dallas all about the ranch and what she has planned. Her passion makes my heart smile if that’s a thing. It feels like a thing. There is something deeply satisfying about hearing someone share their passion.

She may even end up convincing Dallas that true love is worth the risk. Not sure about that though. He seems pretty dead set against opening his heart.

After we tour the property and show him the house under construction, he sets off to give the place one more look before going back to work.

Beau won’t be happy about losing a ranch hand. He’s had a good run these last few years. Good people are hard to hang onto. I know that from experience. My spread isn’t large, but it’s more than I want to handle on my own these days. Especially now that I’m working with Tandy and spending all my extra time with her. Mario is the one who handles everything at my place, and he just gave me notice. His wife’s parents are in poor health, and they are moving to be closer.

I haven’t said a word to anyone about his coming departure, and I’m honestly not sure how I’ll manage everything on my own. But I’ll figure out something. I have to.

Tandy is quiet but smiling as I drive her home. When I park, she grabs the handle. “Are you coming in?”

“I have some things at the ranch I need to finish up, and then I need to get home. But I might stop in later tonight.”

She leans in and gives me a peck. “I’d like that.”

Her hips sway as she marches up the walkway in her yellow jogging suit, and I chuckle. I can’t believe how things have worked out. I’ve put a whole lot of miles on this truck because of this adorably feisty woman. Every one of them worth it.

When I get back to the ranch, Colt waves as I drive past the stables, so I slow to a stop and roll down the window. “Hey, I’m going to check on the building progress.”

“If you need anything, holler. I’ve tackled my stuff for today. Tomorrow, I’m going to look at some horses. Do you want to come?”

I have too much to do as it is. After sitting beside Tandy for so long, there are many tasks waiting on me. “As much as I’d love to, I shouldn’t. You’ll do a great job choosing good ones.”

He throws a ball, and Bandit takes off after it. “Hope so. But like I said, just let me know if you need me to do something.”

“Will do.” I drive to the foreman’s house, and after sliding out of the truck, I snap a few pictures. My camera roll is full of pictures documenting the progress.

Maybe I’ll ask Haley to help me put together one of those books full of pictures for Tandy. If we get this place open before Christmas—or even if we don’t—that would be a cool gift.

The woman has everything she needs, so gift-giving will take some creativity. That’s why I’m starting to think about Christmas during the summer. The holidays have a way of sneaking up.

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