Page 7 of Pitch for You

“Looks like this old post just couldn't take it anymore,” I said, tapping the damaged wood gently. “But don't worry, we'll have it good as new in no time.”

Together, we worked, bodies close but not quite touching. As she held the new post steady, I swung the hammer with precision, driving it into the ground with each powerful strike.

“Remember when we used to fix fences together back in high school?” I asked, pausing for a moment and wiping the sweat from my brow. “Feels like a lifetime ago, doesn't it?”

She laughed. “It does. But it also feels like nothing's changed.”

“Except now we have a few more wrinkles and responsibilities, huh?” I teased.

“Speak for yourself. I'm still waiting for my first gray hair.”

As we continued to work together, our movements fluid and in sync, it was difficult to deny the connection that still lingered. The way our eyes met and held, the subtle smiles playing across our lips, and the ease of the conversation all pointed to something deeper than mere friendship.

“Almost done here,” I said, driving the final nail into place. “There, good as new.”

“Thanks, Brett. This would have taken me much longer to do by myself.”

“Anytime. You literally pay me so, just let me know if you need anything specific outside of my normal tasks.”

As we stood there, sharing a moment of understanding and appreciation, it was clear that working together on this ranch had rekindled a flame that had never quite been extinguished. And though the future was uncertain, one thing was undeniable – the chemistry between us was stronger than ever.

5

Sofia

A week passed since we repaired the fence together, and our growing attraction was becoming more evident each day. Today, we were working side by side in the stables, grooming the horses and preparing them for a ride. I playfully swatted at a piece of hay that clung to Brett's hair.

“Looks like you've got some competition there, Whiskey,” I teased, nodding toward the chestnut mare he was brushing down. “Seems like Brett is trying to steal your signature look.”

He chuckled, shaking his head to dislodge the stubborn hay. “I don't think I could ever compete with this beauty,” he replied, patting the horse affectionately on her neck. He glanced over at me, who was tending to my own horse, and added, “Although, I must say, she does have some stiff competition herself.”

I looked up from my task, cheeks flushing slightly at the compliment. “Oh, you flatterer,” I said, rolling my eyes but unable to suppress the smile that tugged at my lips.

As we continued to groom our respective horses, our hands occasionally brushed against one another's. With each accidental touch, the tension grew, leaving me silently wondering how much longer I could ignore the undeniable chemistry that pulsed.

Just as I was about to voice my thoughts, the stable door creaked open, and Max stepped inside, curiosity lighting up his dark eyes. “Hey, Mom, whatcha doing?”

“Hey, little man,” Brett responded, setting down his brush and walking over to Max. “We're just getting the horses ready for a ride. Want to help out?”

“Really? I've never done that before.”

“Then it's about time you learned, don't you think?” Brett smiled, ruffling Max's brown hair. “Why don't you come over here and give me a hand with Whiskey?”

As I watched the two of them bond over their shared love of horses, my heart swelled. For Max, who was finding joy in our new life on the ranch, and for Brett, who had so easily stepped into the role of mentor and friend.

“Alright, Max,” Brett said, handing him a brush. “You want to start by brushing down her coat like this.” He demonstrated the proper technique, his muscular arm moving in smooth, even strokes. Max followed suit, mimicking Brett's actions as best he could.

“Good job, buddy,” Brett praised, watching Max's progress with a proud smile. “Before long, you'll be a pro just like your mom.”

“Thanks!” Max beamed, his enthusiasm contagious.

I caught Brett's eye from across the stable, gaze lingering on his face as I silently thanked him for his kindness and patience with Max.

“Do you think I could learn to ride someday?”

“Of course,” Brett answered, pausing to wipe the sweat from his brow. “With the right practice and dedication, there's no doubt in my mind that you'll be an excellent rider.”

Max's face lit up at the praise, his chest puffing out with pride. “Really? You think so?”

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