Page 37 of Wyatt & Weston
“Nice job, Red!” Weston praises, riding up beside me. “You’ve got the hang of it.”
I smile, feeling a sense of accomplishment. “Thanks. It’s actually kind of fun.”
Wyatt grins. “I can’t wait to see you ride me like that.” He reaches down, adjusts the crotch of his jeans, and I roll my eyes.
The hours pass in a blur of activity. We stop for a quick lunch, dismounting the horses and letting them drink from a nearby stream. As they quench their thirst, we sit on the grass, pulling out sandwiches from our packs.
“So, Emma,” Weston says, leaning back on his elbows. “What’s the most exciting thing you’ve ever done?”
I pause, trying to think of something that compares to this. Honestly, nothing I’ve ever done even comes close to theexcitement I’m feeling right now. “Honestly, this might be it. I’ve never done anything like this before.”
Wyatt chuckles. “Well, we’re glad to have you with us. You’re a natural.”
His words make me blush, a warm flush spreading across my cheeks. I can’t help but feel a flutter in my chest. There’s something about these two that makes me feel alive, like I can do anything.
After lunch, we saddle up again and continue the drive. The terrain becomes steeper as we climb higher, the horses picking their way carefully over rocks and uneven ground.
By late afternoon, we reach the top of the property, a huge pasture with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The cattle spread out, grazing contentedly.
“We’ll set up camp here for the night,” Bo announces, dismounting and tying his horse to a nearby tree.
I slide down from Daisy, my legs aching from the long ride. The thought of a break is a relief, but I want to contribute, to be part of the group. “Can I help with anything?”
Weston smiles. “You can help me set up the tents. We’ll need a good night’s sleep before heading back down tomorrow.”
We work together, pitching the tents and unloading supplies. It’s a well-rehearsed routine for the twins, and I do my best to keep up. But I’ve never pitched a tent in my life or camped, unless you count staying at a luxury resort camping.
By the time we’re done, the sun has dipped below the horizon, the sky an endless sea of stars.
We sit around the campfire, the crackling flames casting flickering shadows. Weston hands me a cup of coffee, the warmth seeping into my hands.
“This is perfect,” I say softly, gazing up at the stars. “I can’t believe I almost said no to the invite.”
Weston looks over at me, his eyes reflecting the fire. “We’re glad you came, Emma. It’s been even better with you here.”
I feel a lump in my throat at his words, a mixture of pride and something deeper, something I’m not ready to name. “Thank you,” I whisper, my voice thick with emotion.
Wyatt leans over, his shoulder brushing mine. “You’re stuck with us now,” he teases.
I laugh, feeling a sense of belonging I haven’t felt in a long time. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
As the night wears on, the conversation turns to lighter topics. Carson, Hadley, Marshall, and the twins share stories from their childhood, tales of trouble and adventure that make me laugh until my sides ache. They’re so different, yet so alike; six pieces of a whole that make up the heart of the ranch.
“Alright, it’s my turn to keep watch,” Marshall says, standing and stretching. “The rest of you better get some sleep.”
I nod, suddenly feeling tired. “Goodnight, everyone.”
Marshall kisses Sophia and a sleeping Josie. “See you in a little bit, Momma. I’ll be hungry.”
Sophia sighs a breathless little noise and Hadley pretends to gag. “Can you two stop reminding me that not only are you feeding my niece but my brother too? Kinky fucking bastards. I swear.”
She gets up and storms to her tent as everyone else starts to laugh like hyenas.
I stare at Sophia, my eyes wide.
“Don’t knock it till you try it, babe.” She smiles.
I throw my hands up in surrender. “I’m not saying shit. But I am going to bed. Night, everyone.” I stand up as everyone says their goodnights to me. I cast a look to the guys quickly before I head toward the tent the twins had me put my sleeping bag in earlier.
