Page 68 of Wildest Forever

MORGAN

The fresh air hits my face and I didn't know how much I needed to feel that. I look back at the house and then let my eyes hover towards the bedroom where my pops lays.

Nerves settle in my chest.

I wish I could stop the thoughts, but I can't. Always sitting there thinking is this the day he is going to die.

I know it's coming.

But it's the thought of not knowing.

Inhaling heavily, I feel my lungs expand as I move towards the stable and get my horse ready. Placing a kiss on her nuzzle, my fingers find her cheek as I scratch softly before letting my hand glide down to her neck.

Placing my head against her nose, I stand for a moment and try and let my heart slow slightly.

I felt anxious.

“Morning love,” I whisper to her as I step back and her ears prick forward when the sound of boots fill the small stable block.

I spin and see Dusty walking towards me, and I smile.

“Morning boss,” he tilts his head then strokes down Barley’s neck, his eyes bouncing between mine.

“Morning,” I smile.

“What’s the plan for today?” he steps aside, hands in his front pockets.

“I've got to go and get Pacey's horse at some point; we need to move the heifers down the front field and tag the calves.”

“Busy day then,” he chuckles.

“You could say that.”

“Marsha is sorting us lunch today, she said she'll bring it up the house for one.”

“Oh,” I stammer and look past Dusty when I see Pacey walk towards his truck.“One second,” I say to Dusty as I run out of the stable and towards where Pacey is.“Pacey!” I call out, my boots gliding across the gravel.

His eyes find mine and I see the moment of panic that glazes his face.

“What's wrong?” he stops and turns fully to face me.

“Don't worry about lunch,” I pant, a soft smile tugging at my lips.

“No?” his brows furrow.

“Marsha is making food, bringing it up the house for one. You're welcome of course to eat with us unless you wanted to grab something else.”

“I'll be home for one,” he gives me a wink and turns his back on me as he climbs into his truck, closing the door behind him.

I watch as the engine of his truck kicks in and with one last smile, he drives out of the ranch. I find myself waiting until he is on the main road before I move back towards where I have left Dusty.

“Sorry,” I half laugh when I am back in front of him.

“What was that about?” he asks, looking behind me then letting his eyes settle on mine.

“Pacey was going to bring lunch in for us, but then you mentioned Marsha so I told him that she is cooking and bringing lunch up for one.”

“Fair,” he nods then turns his attention to my horse.

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