Page 37 of Falling for Love

Work had always been my anchor, which I could rely on when everything else felt shaky.

As I walked toward the barn, the owner, Mrs. Parker, greeted me warmly.

“Afternoon, Evie. Misty’s all ready for you.” My client was bundled in a matching pink hat and gloves, a white puffy coat, and muck boots instead of snow boots.

She was in her early sixties and maintained a small farm for the local farmer’s market.

“Great,” I said, returning her smile. “How’s she doing with this winter weather?”

“Oh, you know Misty. Sweet as ever, but she’s been a tad stubborn about picking up her feet lately.”

“I’ll see what I can do,” I said, stepping into the barn.

Misty stood patiently in her stall, her soft gray coat gleaming even in the dim light. I set down my tools and ran a hand along her neck, murmuring as I worked my way down to her leg.

“Such a pretty and smart girl,” I whispered, stroking her neck.

She shifted slightly but didn’t protest as I lifted her hoof and cleaned it.

The motions were second nature, but my mind drifted back to Liam even as I focused on Misty.

It wasn’t just the way he looked at me or the way he made Hayden laugh. It was how he showed up—literally and figuratively. He didn’t hesitate to lend a hand or offer kindness, even when he didn’t have to.

I sighed, setting Misty’s hoof down and reaching for the rasp.

What was I doing?

If I kept letting myself feel this way, crazy things could happen.

My emotions could take over, and I could…Gasp.

Fall for him.

Hard.

But Liam was… well, he was Liam.

Charming, capable, and completely out of my league. And yet, whenever I thought about him, I felt a flicker of hope I hadn’t felt in a long time.

“Evie?” Mrs. Parker’s voice pulled me from my thoughts.

I’d thought she’d gone inside, so she startled me. Standing in the barn doorway, still bundled in her heavy coat with her cheeks pink from the cold, she grinned at me funny.

“Everything okay?” I asked, straightening.

“You know,” she said, smiling. “I was going to ask if you’d be interested in meeting my grandson. He’s around your age, a really nice boy.”

What the heck?

Again, with a new client and fresh grandson?

I couldn’t help but chuckle, shaking my head. “Thanks, but I think I’ll pass. I’m sure he’s amazing, but I’m just not into dating.”

She raised an eyebrow. “Sure about that? He’s single, good with animals…”

I laughed, brushing my hands on my jeans. “He sounds great, but I’m not really looking right now.”

“Hmm. She gave me a knowing look. “Well, if you change your mind, you know where to find me.”

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