17. Ranch Hand

CHAPTER 17

Ranch Hand

LIAM

T he scrap of paper said that this was the right address. I double-checked it against the sign on the rusty gate in front of me. Yep, this was the place alright. The Rolling Hills Ranch, just like Sarah's friend Dean had said.

Glancing down at Peanut, I sighed. "Well girl, I sure as hell ain't leaving you alone with those disaster artists tearing apart the house. Guess you're coming to my job interview." I tucked her gently into my jacket, her tiny mews of protest muffled against my chest.

Shoving open the heavy gate, I trudged up the long gravel drive to the cluster of buildings in the distance. A small, weathered structure caught my eye - had to be the main office. Taking a deep breath to steady my nerves, I climbed the rickety wooden steps and knocked on the screen door.

A moment later, it swung open to reveal a lean, sun-weathered man who looked to be in his fifties. Sharp blue eyes assessed me from beneath the brim of a well-worn cowboy hat. "Help you?" he drawled, leaning against the door frame.

"Uh, yeah, hi," I stammered, suddenly feeling like a total jackass. "I'm Liam. Dean sent me, said you might be looking for some extra hands around the ranch? "

The man's eyes crinkled in what might have been a smile. "Ah, you must be the fella he mentioned. I'm Hank, foreman. C'mon in, let's chat a spell."

Following Hank into the small, cozy office, I settled into a chair across from his desk, Peanut wriggling restlessly against my chest. Hank's eyes fell to the squirming lump in my jacket and he chuckled. "And who's this lil' lady?"

I unzipped my jacket, Peanut popping her head out with an indignant mew. "This is Peanut. Just got her and didn't want to leave her home alone with the construction crew."

Hank reached out to scratch Peanut behind the ears, his calloused fingers gentle. "Well ain't she just the cutest thing. So Liam, what brings a young city slicker like yourself out to our neck of the woods?"

I hesitated, not wanting to spill my whole messy life story to a total stranger. "Just needed a change of pace, I guess. Wanted to try something new, broaden my horizons a bit."

Hank nodded, leaning back in his chair. "I can respect that. Lord knows this life ain't for everyone. So, you ever worked on a ranch before?"

"Not exactly," I admitted, feeling my cheeks heat. "But I'm a quick learner and I'm not afraid of hard work. I'll do whatever needs doing."

"Hmm," Hank rubbed his chin, eyeing me thoughtfully. "Well, we got plenty that needs doing ‘round here. You any good with animals?"

"I love animals," I said earnestly. "I mean, I've never really been around livestock, but I'm great with dogs and cats. And horses seem cool, I'd love to learn more about them."

A slow grin spread across Hank's weathered face. "That's the spirit. Tell you what, I'll give you a shot. Won't be glamorous work - mucking stalls, mending fences, that sorta thing. But it's honest labor and it'll put some calluses on those soft city hands of yours."

I couldn't help but grin back at Hank, his enthusiasm infectious. "Sounds perfect to me. I'm ready to get my hands dirty and learn the ropes."

Hank stood up, grabbing his hat from the desk. "Well then, let's get started with a tour of the ranch. I'll introduce you to the livestock and show you the lay of the land."

I followed him out of the office, Peanut scampering at my heels. As we walked towards the stables, Hank glanced over at me with a curious look. "You ever ride a horse before, city boy?"

I chuckled, memories of lazy summer afternoons with Caleb flooding back. "Actually, yeah. My friend gave me some lessons when we were teenagers."

I could still remember the gentle sway of the horse beneath me, the warm solidity of Caleb's body pressed against my back as he guided my hands on the reins. The way his breath had tickled my ear as he murmured instructions, his voice low and intimate…

Shaking off the bittersweet nostalgia, I focused on the present. "It's been a while, but I think I still remember the basics."

Hank nodded approvingly. "Good. That'll come in handy around here."

As we approached the stables, I couldn't help but marvel at their size. The sprawling structure seemed to go on forever, housing what must have been dozens of horses.

"Wow," I breathed, taking it all in. "This is incredible."

Hank grinned, obviously proud of his domain. "Ain't she a beaut? We've got some of the finest horses in the state right here."

I hesitated, glancing down at Peanut. "Is it okay to let her down in here? I don't want her getting underfoot or spooking the horses."

"Nah, it's fine," Hank assured me. "These horses are well-trained. And who knows, maybe your little furball will make some new friends."

Bending down, I scooped Peanut up and set her gently on the ground. She immediately started exploring, her tiny paws silent on the packed dirt floor.

I watched, amused, as she fearlessly approached one of the stalls. The horse inside was a massive black beast, his coat gleaming like polished obsidian.

To my surprise, the horse lowered his head, snuffling curiously at Peanut. She batted playfully at his nose, completely unafraid.

"Well, would you look at that," Hank murmured, coming to stand beside me. "That there's Midnight. He's a rescue, and he's been skittish as hell with humans and other animals. Never seen him take to anyone like that before."

An idea sparked in my mind and I turned to Hank, trying to rein in my excitement. "Could I try? With Midnight, I mean. See if he'll let me pet him?"

Hank raised an eyebrow, considering. "I don't know, Liam. He's a handful. I don't want you getting hurt."

I rolled my eyes, impatience getting the better of me. "C'mon, Hank. I'm not made of glass. And look at him - he's gentle as a lamb with Peanut."

Hank sighed, but I could see a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. "Alright, alright. But take it slow, you hear? And if he starts getting antsy, back off."

I nodded, already moving towards the stall. "Got it, boss."

Slowly, carefully, I reached out a hand, letting Midnight sniff my fingers. He huffed softly, his breath warm against my skin.

"Hey there, big guy," I murmured, keeping my voice low and soothing. "Aren't you just the handsomest thing? Yes, you are."

Midnight snorted, as if he understood the compliment. Emboldened, I ran my hand gently along his nose, marveling at the velvety softness of his coat.

"Well, I'll be damned," Hank said, shaking his head in wonder. "You've got a way with him, Liam. A real connection."

Pride swelled in my chest and I couldn't help but grin. "What can I say? I've always had a soft spot for the misunderstood creatures."

Hank chuckled, clapping me on the shoulder. "Looks like you found your kindred spirit, then. Tell you what - why don't you give him a name? Midnight's what the rescue folks called him, but he's yours now. Might as well make it official."

I blinked, surprised. "Really? You're giving him to me?"

"Consider it a welcome gift," Hank said, his eyes twinkling. "Every cowboy needs a trusty steed, after all."

I turned back to the horse, considering. He was watching me with intelligent eyes, ears pricked forward attentively.

A sudden thought struck me and I smiled, running a hand along his glossy neck. "Pancakes," I declared. "His name is Pancakes."

Hank snorted, shaking his head. "Pancakes? For a horse? You city folks sure are somethin' else."

But I could tell he was amused, maybe even a little charmed by my unorthodox choice.

"Hey, don't knock it till you've tried it," I teased. "Pancakes are delicious and comforting. Just like this guy."

As if to prove my point, Pancakes nuzzled into my hand, his warm breath tickling my palm. My heart melted, any lingering reservations evaporating like morning mist.

"Alright then, Pancakes it is," Hank agreed, a smile tugging at his weathered features. "What do you say we take him out for a spin? See what you remember from those lessons way back when?"

"Hell yes. Let's do it."

Hank showed me how to saddle Pancakes, his hands sure and steady as he walked me through the steps. I tried to pay attention, but my mind was already galloping ahead, imagining the wind in my hair and the powerful surge of muscles beneath me.

Finally, we were ready. Hank swung himself up onto his own horse, a sturdy chestnut mare, and I followed suit, settling into the saddle with a familiarity that surprised me.

I guess some things you never really forget, even if years have gone by. Muscle memory's a hell of a thing.

We set off at an easy trot, Pancakes responding to my cues like we'd been partners for years instead of minutes. The sun was high in the sky, warming my shoulders through my thin t-shirt, and I couldn't help but tip my head back, closing my eyes and savoring the simple pleasure of it all.

God, I'd missed this. The uncomplicated joy of being in nature, of working with animals and using my body for something other than hunching over a computer or fighting my way through crowded city streets.

We rode for what felt like hours, Hank pointing out landmarks and sharing bits of local history and gossip. I drank it all in, feeling like a parched man quenching a thirst I hadn't even known I had.

And then, as we crested a particularly steep hill, Hank reined in his horse and I followed suit, my breath catching in my throat at the sight that greeted me.

The town of Oakwood Grove lay spread out before us like a postcard come to life. The quaint main street with its colorful storefronts, the white-steepled church presiding over the central green, the patchwork of farms and fields stretching out in every direction.

As we sat there on that hilltop, the beauty of Oakwood Grove spread out before us like a living tapestry, Hank started to share some of the town's history. I listened intently, fascinated by the stories of the pioneers who had first settled this land, the trials and triumphs they had faced.

"You know, Oakwood was founded two hundred years ago," Hank said, his eyes distant as if he were seeing into the past. "Bunch of hardy folks looking for a new start, a place to put down roots and build something lasting."

I nodded, trying to imagine what it must have been like. The courage it must have taken to strike out into the unknown, to carve a life out of the wilderness.

"What made them choose this spot?" I asked, genuinely curious. "I mean, there must have been a reason they settled here, specifically."

Hank chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Well, legend has it that the first settler, a fella by the name of Jeremiah Oakwood, had a vision. Folks say he dreamt of a mighty oak tree, standing tall and proud in the middle of a golden field. And when he came upon this valley, with its fertile soil and clear streams…"

"Let me guess," I cut in, a smile tugging at my lips. "He found an oak tree, just like in his dream."

"Bingo," Hank confirmed, tipping his hat to me. "Jeremiah took it as a sign from above. Said this was where he was meant to be, where his family would flourish for generations to come."

I fell silent, thinking about the power of dreams, of the way they could shape a life, a destiny. It made me wonder about my own dreams, the ones I'd let slip away in the face of heartbreak and disappointment.

Had I been wrong to give up so easily? To let one setback, one shattered illusion, derail me from the path I'd always wanted to walk?

Hank must have sensed the direction of my thoughts, because he reached out and clapped a hand on my shoulder, his grip firm and reassuring.

"You know, Liam," he said, his voice thoughtful. "You've got a real gift with animals. A way of connecting with them, understanding them. It's a rare thing, and it's not something to be taken lightly."

I looked at him, surprised by the sudden seriousness in his tone. "You think so?"

He nodded, holding my gaze. "I know so. And that's why I want to make you an offer."

My heart skipped a beat, a flicker of hope igniting in my chest. "An offer?"

"The job," Hank clarified, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "I want you to come work for the ranch, even if it is part time. Starting tomorrow, if you're willing."

I stared at him, my mouth suddenly dry. "Are you serious?"

He laughed, the sound rich and warm in the clear mountain air. "As a heart attack, son. I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it. "

I felt a grin spreading across my face, so wide it made my cheeks ache. "Yes. I'll take it." But then a thought occurred to me and I hesitated, biting my lip. "What about the pay, though? I mean, I know ranch work isn't exactly lucrative."

Hank waved a hand, dismissing my concerns. "Don't you worry about that. We'll work something out. And besides, something tells me you're not here for the money anyway."

"You're right," I said softly, meeting Hank's eyes. "Money's not what matters to me. Not anymore. What matters is finding my place in the world, figuring out who I am and what I want."

Hank nodded, a look of understanding passing between us. "Well, I'd say you're off to a pretty good start, kid. And I'm happy to help you along the way, in whatever way I can."

"Thank you, Hank. Truly. You have no idea how much this means to me."

He just smiled, waving off my gratitude like it was nothing. "Don't mention it. We're a family here at the ranch, and family looks out for each other."

Family. The word sent a pang through my chest, a bittersweet ache that was equal parts longing and grief.

It had been so long since I'd felt that sense of connection, of belonging. So long since I'd had people in my corner, people who cared about me not for what I could do for them, but simply for who I was. Maybe I had a chance to find that again. To build a new family, one of my own choosing.

The thought filled me with a warmth, a hope that I hadn't felt in years. And as we rode back down the hill towards the stables, Peanut trotting along beside us, I felt lighter than I had in ages.

We reached the stables and dismounted, Hank showing me how to unsaddle Pancakes and rub him down. I listened attentively, determined to remember every detail, every little trick of the trade.

Peanut was waiting for us when we finished, curled up in a patch of sunlight like a contented little loaf. I scooped her up, pressing a kiss to the top of her fuzzy head .

"C'mon, girl," I murmured, cradling her against my chest. "Let's go make things official."

Hank led the way back to the office, holding the door open for me with a flourish. "After you, ranch hand."

I grinned, feeling a rush of pride at the title. Ranch hand. It had a nice ring to it, a solidness that grounded me, anchored me.

We settled back into our chairs, Hank pulling out a sheaf of paperwork and a pen. "Alright, let's get this show on the road. I'll just need you to sign a few things, and then we'll be all set."

After signing the documents, we said our goodbyes and Hank told me that he will be seeing me tomorrow. I definitely wouldn't let the man down.

I got back to my car, settling Peanut on the passenger seat. As I reached for my phone, I saw the screen light up with a barrage of missed calls and messages.

All from my parents. All demanding to know where I was, what I was doing.

I sighed, a heavy weight settling in my stomach. I'd been avoiding them for weeks now, dodging their calls and texts like they were poison darts.

But I knew I couldn't run forever. Knew that sooner or later, I'd have to face the music.

Might as well get it over with.

I took a deep breath, steeling myself, and hit the call button. It barely rang once before my father's voice exploded through the speaker.

"Liam! Where the hell have you been? Your mother and I have been worried sick!"

I winced, pulling the phone away from my ear slightly. "Hi, Dad. I'm fine, thanks for asking."

"Don't you take that tone with me," he snapped, his anger palpable even through the phone. "You can't just disappear off the face of the earth like this, not without a word of explanation. What are you thinking Liam, your home is here, with your family. With the life we've built for you, the opportunities we've provided."

I shook my head, even though he couldn't see me. "No. That's your life, not mine. And I'm done trying to fit into the mold you've created for me, and I am done pretending."

There was a long, heavy silence. And then my father spoke again, his voice low and controlled.

"Liam, listen to me very carefully. You're on thin ice right now, very thin ice. If you continue down this path, if you keep turning your back on your responsibilities, on your family…"

He trailed off, letting the threat hang in the air.

"There will be consequences," he finished, each word like a hammer blow. "Severe consequences."

I swallowed hard, my heart pounding in my ears. But I refused to back down, refused to let him bully me into submission.

"I'm sorry you feel that way," I said quietly, my voice shaking only slightly. "But I'm not changing my mind. This is something I have to do, for myself. And if you can't understand that, if you can't support me…" I took a deep breath, gathering my courage. "Then I guess we have nothing more to say to each other," I finished, my voice barely above a whisper.

And before he could respond, before he could unleash another tirade of anger and disapproval, I hung up the phone, my hand shaking as I tossed it onto the dashboard.

For a long moment, I just sat there, staring blankly out the windshield. My heart was racing, my mind whirling with the implications of what I'd just done.

I'd defied my father. I'd stood up for myself, for my choices. And god, it was terrifying. Exhilarating and empowering too, but mostly just scary as hell. Because I knew my parents, knew the lengths they would go to to keep me under their thumb. They wouldn't just let this go, wouldn't just accept my decision without a fight.

But I was ready for that fight. Ready to defend my right to live my own life, to chase my own dreams.

No matter the cost.

I glanced over at Peanut, who was watching me with wide, curious eyes. And despite everything, despite the fear and the uncertainty churning in my gut I felt a smile tug at my lips, a rush of affection warming my chest.

"You're the least complicated thing in my life right now, you know that?" I murmured, reaching out to scratch her behind the ears. "The only one who doesn't have any expectations, any demands."

She mewed softly, leaning into my touch like it was the most natural thing in the world. And in that moment, with her soft fur under my fingers and her trusting gaze fixed on mine I felt a sense of peace wash over me. A sense of rightness, of purpose.

I was doing the right thing. For myself, for my own happiness.