Page 8 of Timber's Line

“Sorry. I know you like to check on the animals and I also thought you might need some time.”

“I’ll let them out to pasture, but I start filming today at noon.”

He studies me for a minute before he speaks. “Timber, I’ve known you your whole life. I think you are pretty, smart, and talented. I know you have doubts about the show, but never doubt who you are.”

I stare at him for a minute. Smart. Talented. Pretty. Never words used to describe me.

“You just have to say that because you’re practically my uncle,” I tease. He tenses and I don’t understand why. He changes his demeanor by handing me a cup of coffee.

“At least the food will be good.” I smile at him, and his face softens.

“Damn right.”

“I’ll check the horses and let them out before I have to get ready for the show.”

He reaches out and touches my shoulder before leaving. He has things he needs to get ready. I can only imagine what it must take to feed the cast and crew.

It’s quiet when I step into the barn. I pat the horses’ heads and grab a feed bucket to spread chicken feed first. After that, I brush all the horses and lead them out so they can run around. I watch for a minute until I feel like someone is watching me. But no one is around.

I check the chickens one last time before heading inside to change.

“No pretty dress today,” Ever says.

“I know. That’s for tonight.”

“I have an outfit picked out.” She smiles at me.

“Okay?”

“Timber, trust me. Ivy is going to help with your hair. Ariel is on her way to help with makeup, not that you need much.”

I only nod. I don’t take compliments well.

I followed her to her room, and she told me to sit at her vanity. I should say her old room since she lives with her husband now. I stared in the mirror, looking at every imperfection I saw.

“Don’t do that,” Ever said.

“Do what?”

“I know what you’re doing. I was once you. Don’t look for those flaws. You don’t have any.”

“I’m fat.”

“No, you’re curvy. And some men like that. Come here and put these on.” She hands me a pair of black jeans and a white silky tank top with black trim and rhinestones.

“Ever?”

“This isn’t wardrobe. I bought this for you.”

“You didn’t need to do that,” I replied as I held the silky top in my hands, shaking.

“Timber, please. Just try them on.”

I only nodded.

“Go take a quick shower and put them on.”

I did as she said. I went to my room and jumped in the shower, which I needed since I smelled like horses. I didn’t mind the smell, but others would. I washed my hair but didn’t brush it. I wrapped it in a towel and pulled on a bra and panties before trying on the clothes. They fit and I looked at myself in awe. I looked good.