Page 11 of Knocked up By the Mountain Man

My father’s lips purse thoughtfully. “That’s good to hear,” he says, though his eyes remain skeptical. “Remember, Beau, it’s not just about securing deals and managing people. It’s about understanding the land, the livestock, and the market. All those pieces have to come together seamlessly. And you haven’talwaysbeen on your best behavior, have you?”

“I get that, Dad,” I respond, trying to keep my annoyance in check. “I’m learning more every day. You don’t have to worry about the ranch falling apart. Just because I was a little reckless a few years back, doesn’t mean I’m still like that. I’ve grown up.”

He looks at me, a flicker of doubt in his eyes. “I know you have son, but this isn’t just about the ranch running smoothly. It’s about the legacy. Your grandfather started this ranch from nothing, and I built it into what it is today. One day, it’ll be yours, and you have to be ready to take it even further.”

I nod, feeling the weight of his words settle on my shoulders. “I understand, Dad. I do. And I’m committed to making sure the ranch thrives, not just for us, but for the generations to come. You know this. I’ve always been dedicated to the ranch, and I always will.”

I’ve told him this endlessly.

Why doesn’t he get it?

“Right, well I’m sure you have a lot of work to get on with, right?”

I nod, “I do, get some rest, Dad. I’ll check in on you later.” He gives a slight nod, already looking out the window once more, his thoughts far away from me.

As I step out of the bedroom, I can’t shake the feeling of his doubts clinging to me like a shadow. It’s frustrating, knowing I’ve poured my heart and soul into this ranch, yet he still seems hesitant to trust me fully.

“Beau?” Wyatt’s voice cuts through my thoughts. “There you are.”

“Oh, hey.” I force a smile. “What’s up?”

“The stable master just told me the specialist vet’s here. Should I send him over to the main barn?”

“Yeah, that’s fine,” I reply. “I’ll be there in a minute.”

Always a drama.

Never a moment of rest.

Truth be told, that’s how I thrive.

But will Dad ever see that’s how I thrive?

5

CLARA

Ifeel sick.

I clutch my stomach, trying my hardest not to throw up as I wait. It’s harder being back here than I thought it would be. My heart pounds as I drink in the sight of the barn, stirring memories I’ve tried hard to bury. The air is thick with nostalgia and an anxiety that tightens my chest.

I haven’t been back here since that night more than three years ago, and now... well, now it just felt weird.

Taking a deep breath, I remind myself that I’m here for a job. I am Dr. Clara Ryder, veterinarian.

A Professional.

I try to remain cool and detached.

But the facade is hard to maintain.

I hear footsteps and stiffen, my pulse quickening. Turning around, I see him.

Beau Marshall.

The sight of him almost makes me buckle at the knees. How is he still so damn handsome? The same tall, rugged frame, the same piercing blue eyes that always seemed to see right through me. It’s painful to look at him because my heart still aches. But Ihave to keep myself in check, this isn’t just about me now, I have a secret that I need to keep tightly locked away.

Thomas.

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