Page 39 of Timber's Line

“Hey, buddy.” I checked his eyes, ears, and coat. He looked better.

“I think he was lonely.”

“Lonely?”

She let him out, and I watched as he went to the fence that bordered Linc’s ranch. Another horse poked its head over the fence, and Dwight nuzzled it.

“He has a girlfriend,” I said in awe.

“Yeah. We talked to Jimmy, and he said we could let them mate when it’s time.”

“That’s so sweet,” I cooed.

“I know. Join me for some tea.”

I nodded, following her back to the house.

“Sit, I’ll be right back.”

“Auntie Timber.” Stella was barely old enough to walk but was cute as a button.

“Hey, little girl.” She just started talking but was a quick learner.

“You sad,” she says, and I nod. “Feel better.”

“Thank you.”

“Grandpa is looking for you,” Skye tells her, and she runs off giggling.

“She’s so cute,” I tell her.

“And a handful.”

I just chuckle, because most kids are.

“What’s on your mind?”

“Where do I begin?”

“At the beginning.”

“Do you believe in love at first sight?”

“I loved Lincoln at first sight, so yeah.”

“Have you ever loved someone who didn’t love you back?”

“Again, Lincoln. What’s this about?”

“I like someone.”

“One of the suitors?”

“No. And I haven’t met all of them yet. Sal sets the rules and then changes them when he wants.”

She starts laughing. “Sounds like him. I’m guessing Dayton.”

“I don’t know if I love him, but I’m drawn to him.”