Page 12 of Destiny

“You,” Donny says. “And you didn’t think it was important to tell us that right off the bat?”

He places both hands on his desk and leans toward us. “I didn’t think it was any of your business, Don. I can assure you the club is not involved in any illegal activities, nor are we involved in sticking it to the man in any way.”

“Whatisthe club involved with?”

“Charitable work, mostly. The members support nonprofits that are working on legislation at the state level.”

I wrinkle my forehead. “Exactly how do members of your club help with legislation at the state level? We’re in a little one-horse town here.”

“We take field trips into Denver sometimes, work with the nonprofits there.”

“And what types of legislation are you trying to help get passed?” I ask.

“Usually bills that are important to ranching communities like Snow Creek. The club is what it says it is, gentlemen. It’s a club of future lawmakers.”

“So no one’s sticking it to any man, then?” I say.

“Not since I’ve been the advisor to the club.”

“Why did you take on this advisory job?” Donny asks.

“Because I’m interested in it.” Darrell leans back in his chair. “I’m interested in helping the community I live in.”

Donny shakes his head. “But you’re not a rancher, Darrell.”

“My parents are ranchers. Have you forgotten, Steel?” Darrell lets out a sarcastic scoff. “You don’t ownallthe ranch land on the western slope.”

Donny draws in a breath. Inside my head I can hear him counting to ten.

“Last I checked, Darrell, the Steel Trust has a lien on your family’s property.”

This time Darrell draws in a breath. Yeah, nowhe’scounting to ten.

I’m not sure where Donny’s going with this, but I don’t like it. All those rumors appear to be true. The Steelsdoown the damned town. Even though I’m in love with one of them, I’d like some answers just as much as Darrell would.

“I was not aware of that,” Darrell says.

“Oh, come on, Darrell. You’ve heard the same thing the rest of us have our whole lives. That my family owns this town.”

“So you’re saying it’s true?”

“I’m saying the Steel Trust has a lien on your family’s property. Nothing more than that. Take what I say at face value, Darrell.”

“What the hell does all this have to do with the future lawmakers club?” Darrell asks.

I can’t blame him. It’s a good question.

“Brendan and I would like to attend your next meeting,” Donny says.

“There won’t be any more meetings until after the first of the year. We’re going on holiday break soon, as you well know. None of our clubs meet in December.”

“Fine. January, then.” Don turns to me. “You ready, Brendan?”

“I suppose. Darrell?”

“Yeah?”

“Do you keep minutes of your club?”

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