Page 1 of The Cowboy's Witchy Second Chance
1
Alona
For the first time in my life, I wake up on a Nigerian dwarf dairy goat farm, thanks to my Aunt B’s will.
Out of all of her great nieces and nephews, why did she choose me to take over her farm? And why did I agree to run it instead of selling the place? Is this what a midlife crisis is?
I groan out into the empty bedroom. Too many questions before my morning coffee. Slipping out of my aunt’s four poster bed, I slide into my slippers and pad down the hall. My swanky coffee maker looks out of place in my aunt’s 1940s kitchen, but it promises me an excellent cup of coffee within minutes.
My aunt’s estate hired farm help for the month while I get myself settled. I see the men through the window, taking care of the goats. They catch my eye and give a wave. I politely smile and go hide in my aunt’s sunroom.
Digging out my cell, I check my messages. Both Nattie and Clementine have texted in the group chat that they will be here after lunch. I am excited to see my two best high school buddies, even if it means I somehow find myself living in my hometown again. And maybe Clementine can help me figure out how to run this place. Compared to her family ranch, this little dairy farm is probably child’s play.
My old high school friends show up several hours later with gift baskets filled with cleaning supplies.
“Times sure are different from 30 years ago.” Clementine jokes as she gives me a welcome back hug.
I usher them into the house and put the kettle on.
“Ladies, I am so lost. I don’t know what got into me when I agreed to take this on.”
We settle down in my aunt’s living room to catch up. I haven’t been back in years, so I get an earful of the town’s gossip.
“Wow, Clem, the Brooks brats are all hitched now?” I ask.
Clementine groans with an eye roll.
“I forgot you called them that!” Nattie says with a cackle.
“What about you, Nat? Anyone special?”
Standing up while shaking her head no, she claps her hands together.
“OK, ladies, how about the tour we were promised? I really want to see the goat milk soap set up.”
I start with my aunt’s house, which Clem points out I need to start calling my house. The ranch house isn’t large, but is a decent size for just me. In my bedroom, Nattie makes a pleasantly surprised noise.
“You have an altar! Are you still practicing your witchcraft?”
I nod from the other side of the room.
“Yeah. Witchcraft turned into much more for me than just a passing teen fancy.”
“That’s cool. I’m happy for you. I remember how much you loved it.”
I lead them out to the dairy goats, which they go crazy for. I have to admit, these goats are ridiculously cute.
“So these ranch hands out here helping are temporary?” Clementine asks as she scratches a goat behind its ear.
“Yeah. There’s so much for me to figure out in such a short time.”
“Come to dinner tonight. My brothers will probably have a lot of ideas and suggestions for you.”
I hesitate.
“Yeah, maybe.” I reply.
I want to ask her if my ex-high school boyfriend still works on her family ranch, but I feel silly that I care enough to avoid the place if he does. It’s been almost 30 years since we dated. But Ford, and his temper, has a way of sticking with you.
