Page 59 of Shattered Melodies

“Not exactly,” I admitted, feeling my cheeks heat. “But I’m a quick learner and I’m not afraid of hard work. I’ll do whatever needs doing.”

“Hmm,” Hank rubbed his chin, eyeing me thoughtfully. “Well, we got plenty that needs doing ‘round here. You any good with animals?”

“I love animals,” I said earnestly. “I mean, I’ve never really been around livestock, but I’m great with dogs and cats. And horses seem cool, I’d love to learn more about them.”

A slow grin spread across Hank’s weathered face. “That’s the spirit. Tell you what, I’ll give you a shot. Won’t be glamorous work - mucking stalls, mending fences, that sorta thing. But it’s honest labor and it’ll put some calluses on those soft city hands of yours.”

I couldn’t help but grin back at Hank, his enthusiasm infectious. “Sounds perfect to me. I’m ready to get my hands dirty and learn the ropes.”

Hank stood up, grabbing his hat from the desk. “Well then, let’s get started with a tour of the ranch. I’ll introduce you to the livestock and show you the lay of the land.”

I followed him out of the office, Peanut scampering at my heels. As we walked towards the stables, Hank glanced over at me with a curious look. “You ever ride a horse before, city boy?”

I chuckled, memories of lazy summer afternoons with Caleb flooding back. “Actually, yeah. My friend gave me some lessons when we were teenagers.”

I could still remember the gentle sway of the horse beneath me, the warm solidity of Caleb’s body pressed against my back as he guided my hands on the reins. The way his breath had tickled my ear as he murmured instructions, his voice low and intimate…

Shaking off the bittersweet nostalgia, I focused on the present. “It’s been a while, but I think I still remember the basics.”

Hank nodded approvingly. “Good. That’ll come in handy around here.”

As we approached the stables, I couldn’t help but marvel at their size. The sprawling structure seemed to go on forever, housing what must have been dozens of horses.

“Wow,” I breathed, taking it all in. “This is incredible.”

Hank grinned, obviously proud of his domain. “Ain’t she a beaut? We’ve got some of the finest horses in the state right here.”

I hesitated, glancing down at Peanut. “Is it okay to let her down in here? I don’t want her getting underfoot or spooking the horses.”

“Nah, it’s fine,” Hank assured me. “These horses are well-trained. And who knows, maybe your little furball will make some new friends.”

Bending down, I scooped Peanut up and set her gently on the ground. She immediately started exploring, her tiny paws silent on the packed dirt floor.

I watched, amused, as she fearlessly approached one of the stalls. The horse inside was a massive black beast, his coat gleaming like polished obsidian.

To my surprise, the horse lowered his head, snuffling curiously at Peanut. She batted playfully at his nose, completely unafraid.

“Well, would you look at that,” Hank murmured, coming to stand beside me. “That there’s Midnight. He’s a rescue, and he’s been skittish as hell with humans and other animals. Never seen him take to anyone like that before.”

An idea sparked in my mind and I turned to Hank, trying to rein in my excitement. “Could I try? With Midnight, I mean. See if he’ll let me pet him?”

Hank raised an eyebrow, considering. “I don’t know, Liam. He’s a handful. I don’t want you getting hurt.”

I rolled my eyes, impatience getting the better of me. “C’mon, Hank. I’m not made of glass. And look at him - he’s gentle as a lamb with Peanut.”

Hank sighed, but I could see a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. “Alright, alright. But take it slow, you hear? And if he starts getting antsy, back off.”

I nodded, already moving towards the stall. “Got it, boss.”

Slowly, carefully, I reached out a hand, letting Midnight sniff my fingers. He huffed softly, his breath warm against my skin.

“Hey there, big guy,” I murmured, keeping my voice low and soothing. “Aren’t you just the handsomest thing? Yes, you are.”

Midnight snorted, as if he understood the compliment. Emboldened, I ran my hand gently along his nose, marveling at the velvety softness of his coat.

“Well, I’ll be damned,” Hank said, shaking his head in wonder. “You’ve got a way with him, Liam. A real connection.”

Pride swelled in my chest and I couldn’t help but grin. “What can I say? I’ve always had a soft spot for the misunderstood creatures.”

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