Page 78 of Saddles

“Not until January. I’m so glad I challenged my finals to finish my fall semester early.” I can’t imagine trying to rush back to classes now.

It’s almost a distant memory.

“Oh, nice. I have one more test this week. I forgot to ask, what’s your major?” She moans with another bite. “God, I always forget how good this stuff is. If we’re heading straight back to the ranch, I’m gonna get some for Lori, too.”

“Animal nutrition. Ironically, I wanted to get a job with a big cattle outfit. I didn’t know I’d be staying on one so soon.” I wave my own bowl in a broad gesture. “I guess sometimes things don’t go as planned.”

She squeals. “So, does that mean you can help me figure out what’s going on with Misty? After a few rounds on the barrels, she always seems to drag out and almost acts like she’s colicing.”

“I’d love to help any way I can.” I’ll forever be in their debt.

They didn’t have to take me in, run me around, and most importantly, treat me as if I’m their friend instead of as a broken victim.

“Hey? Are you doing okay? You got a little teary eyed there.” She pats my shoulder, then links her arm through my elbow like Char did earlier.

“Yea, I’m just so grateful.” Even my own father doesn’t act as happy to be with me as they do.

Certainly not his wife.

“You know, like Char was saying earlier, there might be a silver lining. If I hadn’t broken my leg, Lori wouldn’t have met my dad.My best friend became my step-mom.” She starts giggling. “It’s really the most amazing thing. I feel bad for those poor people who hate their step-parents.”

“Ugh. You have no idea. One of these days I’ll tell you about my step-cunt.” Fuck.

My fingers cover my mouth and I stare at her in shock.

I didn’t mean to actuallysayit.

Her eyes widen, then she bursts into full-bellied laughter. “Holy shit, that’s the funniest thing I’ve ever heard.”

I can’t help but join her.

“What is so hysterical?” Dixon folds his wallet, sliding it into his back pocket.

His straight face doesn’t seem to intimidate Sophia, who’s wiping tears from her cheeks.

“She calls her dad’s wife ‘step-cunt’ and it’s the greatest thing ever.” Sophia breaks down into another peal of giggles, and Char joins in.

Dixon’s mustache twitches, but I swear he cracks a smile.

Maybe it’s because of the stories Ford told me about them, but even though I just met everyone only a few hours ago, I feel like I’ve known them much longer.

Will it be the same when Ford gets here?

Chapter 25

Ford

I’m stomping my boots off when the phone rings.

It’s been years since I’ve ever given a shit about talking to anyone. Now, that's all I can think about.

“Hey, how’d it go?” I hate that I wasn't there with her. Wade can be an ass sometimes thinking he’s being funny.

“Well, Dr. Phillips gave me a clean bill of health.” April’s voice sounds triumphant. “It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be, but I’m glad it’s over.”

“Dixon wasn’t there?” That rankles me. I asked for him to keep an eye on her.

“Um, yea. He drove all of us. But I’m not going to have your friend check me outeverywhere.” She stresses the last word. “That would be awkward.”

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