Page 47 of Rafe

“Yeah, right,” Rafe muttered, a chuckle escaping his lips.

Rafe knew Fred was set on leaving the ranch to him. No matter how many times Rafe insisted he didn’t want it, Fred brushed it off. Fred had confided in Rafe that there was no one else he trusted to keep the ranch running. Fred believed in Rafe’s capabilities, even if Rafe himself had doubts. Junior, Fred’s other option, would sell it in a heartbeat, and Fred was determined that the ranch should carry on after he was gone. He knew Rafe would see to it.

With a deep sigh, Rafe realized that if Fred left it to him, he would have no choice but to honor his wishes. He would do whatever Fred wanted, ensuring the legacy lived on.

****

On the day of the race, Maggie could hardly contain her excitement. She loved watching the race, but this time, she would run across the street to him, whether he won or not.

“It’s a beautiful day,” she said.

“It is. A little chilly but still a beautiful fall day.” Rafe maneuvered his truck into the parking lot, and they stepped out.

“I see Nate and Markie,” she said.

“Nate’s racing, but he knows he won’t win,” Rafe said with a chuckle.

“He just does it for fun.”

“Yeah, Nate doesn’t care if he wins or not.”

“You’re really close friends, aren’t you?”

“We have been since grade school.”

“Wow, that long, huh?”

Rafe looked at her with a frown, making Maggie laugh.

“Sorry, couldn’t resist.”

“Like you’re not far behind me.”

Maggie smiled, slid her arms around his waist and kissed his lips.

“Rafe.”

They turned to see Nate and Markie walking toward them.

“Hey, Nate,” Rafe said, then hugged Markie.

Maggie hugged them both, then watched Rafe unload Rocket from the trailer. She laughed as the horse started prancing.

“I think he knows he’s going to race,” Markie said as looked at the horse.

“I think so too.” Maggie smiled and watched Nate unload his horse.

As they made their way toward the street, a lot of people stopped them to wish them good luck, then she and Markie stood on the sidewalk as Rafe and Nate led their horses to where the race would start.

They positioned themselves toward the back of the pack, while most racers preferred to be at the front for a better chance at an early lead.

“Maggie? Do you mind if we watch with you?” Fred asked as he and Mary stopped beside her.

“Of course, not. I’d love it. Fred, Mary, this is Dr. Markie Russell, Markie, this is Fred Hancock and Mary Danson.”

“I know Dr. Russell,” Fred said with a grin.

Markie shook Mary’s hand. “Hello, Fred. Mary, it’s very nice to meet you.”

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