Page 26 of Protective Cowboy

Brock added, “Besides, our diner’s appeared on Reviving Snowberry Springs several times so far. It would be a good fit.”

Winnie shared a long glance with Nick before replying, “That’s actually not a bad idea,” she said. “We’ve been discussing which historic building in town needs the most help, and would also make for an interesting TV season.”

Abigail perked up. “If you’re taking suggestions, I have a soft spot for the old Masonic Lodge. It was one of the first permanent buildings in town, and it would be a shame to see it fall into further disrepair.”

Nick considered her words before responding, “You’re absolutely right, Grandma Abigail. The Masonic Lodge is a landmark, no doubt about it. But from a television perspective, the old firehouse on the corner of Main and Third might make for a more visually interesting project.”

The conversation continued as everyone dug into the food. Various family members chimed in with their thoughts and opinions.

“Anything to keep visitors coming to the ranch,” Spring said during a lull in the eating and talking. He addressed his next remark to Matt. “We’ve seen a big uptick in our Airbnb business since the show began airing. The RSS production crew currently rents about half of our cabins, and the rest are booked as soon as they become available. I’ve been trying to talk Mom and Dad into adding more.”

“Well, it’s your call from here on out, son.” Bob cleared his throat and looked at his wife. “This seems like the perfect time to make my announcement, don’t you think, honey?”

Priscilla nodded, and the table fell silent.

“Since you’ve been doing such a great job as our ranch manager, your mom and I have decided it’s time for me to step back and retire from day-to-day operations. I’ll still be available to cover for emergencies and vacations, but Snowberry Springs Ranch is yours now.”

Matt felt the collective shock ripple around the table. Even the reserved and quietly confident Spring looked like he’d been poleaxed.

“You’ve grown into a fine, capable man, Spring, and I’m so proud of everything you’ve accomplished,” Bob continued, sounding a bit choked up. “I know our ranch will be in excellent hands with you at the helm.”

“If Frank were still here, I’m sure he’d agree,” Abigail said, referring to her late husband, Spring’s grandfather.

Spring struggled to find words, his Adam’s apple bobbing in his throat. “Thanks, Dad and Mom,” he managed at last, his voice rough with emotion. “I won’t let you down.”

“I don’t reckon you will,” Bob said, his own eyes suspiciously bright. “We’ll go see the lawyer on Monday to get all the paperwork drawn up.”

“Thanks,” Spring said again.

“Hey, I’ve been thinking,” Winnie chimed in. “Since Dad’s retiring, maybe it’s time you considered hiring some help with April and Abby.”

Clearly caught off-guard, Spring frowned at his sister. “What do you mean?”

“Kelsey,” Nick added, wiping his mouth with a napkin. “Our nanny. You know Kegan’s starting school this year, so she’s looking for more hours. She’s great with kids and could be a big help for you, man.”

“Mom, what do you think?” Winnie asked.

“I think it’s an excellent idea,” Priscilla replied. Her gaze landed on Spring. “Sweetie, you’ve got your hands full with the ranch now. Having Kelsey around would make things easier for you as a single dad.”

Spring scowled. He clearly wasn’t a fan of the suggestion.

“Kelsey’s awesome!” seven-year-old Kegan chimed in. “And April and Abby think she’s cool, too!”

“She is! She does the best art projects!” the girls enthused.

“Okay, okay, I get it. I admit she seems to do a great job with Kegan,” Spring said, throwing up his hands. “But I don’t need a nanny. I can take care of my girls just fine.”

“But, Spring—” Winnie clearly wasn’t ready to let the subject drop.

“Enough about Kelsey!” Spring snapped. He added into the shocked silence, “Can’t we talk about something else now?”

“Like the Labor Day Weekend street fair?” Abigail suggested after an uncomfortably long moment. “Autumn, how is the planning going?”

“Smooth as butter,” Autumn replied. “I think it’ll be just as successful as the Vintage Railroad Days festival.” She paused for dramatic effect before adding, “And maybe we can even convince Daisy to make another appearance in the petting zoo.”

“Over my dead body,” Matt muttered. “Maybe we can get a booth to offer goat curry.”

“No!” Jayden wailed as the adults laughed.

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