Total pages in book: 81
Estimated words: 74968 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 375(@200wpm)___ 300(@250wpm)___ 250(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 74968 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 375(@200wpm)___ 300(@250wpm)___ 250(@300wpm)
“Is it possible we have too much food?” Maverick interrupted my survey of the food and happy guests as he came up alongside me in the large open kitchen.
“No such thing as too much food.” If nothing else, the bunkhouse would welcome leftovers. And the pies possibly outnumbering the guests seemed like a happy problem to have.
“I’m not sure the house has ever been this full.” Maverick added a roll to his crowded plate of food as he glanced around fondly. Colt and both girls had claimed seats near the TV on the far sofa, which had been pushed back to allow space for card tables and folding chairs. Other guests spilled into the formal dining room and front parlor. Most of the hands had opted to join us, along with Colt’s aunt and a couple of random friends and cousins. “That’s not a complaint either. I like this new energy.”
“I do too.” I’d never met Maverick’s father, but I’d heard enough stories about his toxic parenting and miserable attitude. Filling the stately older home with fresh memories seemed like a wonderful tribute to Maverick’s hard work redoing the place. “Speaking of new energy, how is wedding planning coming?”
“Hectic.” Maverick groaned. He and Colt were having a New Year’s Eve wedding, and last I heard, the planning kept getting hijacked by various relatives. “I have no idea what we were thinking, planning something so soon.”
“You were thinking you’re in love and can’t wait to make it official.” I laughed lightly, determined to not show even a hint of jealousy. Maverick had reunited with the love of his life. Of course he wanted to put a ring on Colt in a hurry. Meanwhile, I was over here all but groveling for another repeat from Grayson, about as far from my own happy ending as possible.
“True.” Maverick rolled his neck from side to side. “I feel bad, though, because I haven’t been putting enough energy toward the dude ranch project. You keep sending me ideas, and I’m simply waiting for the brain space to implement them.”
“We’ll get there.” The longer I worked as a hand, the more robust my vision for guests became. My enthusiasm could be a lot under the best of circumstances, let alone mid-wedding planning. Although I was eager to get started implementing my ideas, I could wait until after the new year. And I was in no hurry to move on from being a hand and seeing Grayson on the daily. “Be gentle with yourself.”
“Thanks.” Maverick smiled warmly. “Couldn’t do the project without you. Or this dinner. It all came together beautifully. Can you plan Christmas too?”
He laughed like the request was more of a tease, but I already had pages of notes for how to make that holiday a success as well.
“I’m on it.” I adopted the confident tone Maverick needed. He had enough on his to-do list, and I was more than happy to make the season merry for everyone. “Later, we’ll draw for Secret Santa for those who are interested.”
“I won’t play because I don’t want to make things awkward for anyone, but I’m cheering you on.”
“The perils of being the big boss.” I grinned at him. Slowly but surely, Maverick was settling into his role as the ranch owner. “Now, go sit with Sheriff Sexy before he comes over and pries you away.”
“Okay.” Maverick had only glanced toward Colt a dozen times during our short conversation. Chuckling, he gestured at all the food tables. “And you need to make yourself a plate already.”
“Eventually.” I delayed the order to eat, instead circulating my list for Secret Santa, making sure the coolers of soft drinks and water were well-stocked, arranging small plates near the dessert table, and answering various guest questions.
I felt useful and needed in a way I hadn’t since my last hotel job. And not only that, but Maverick actively wanted me here. I had no doubt he could pull off the wedding and holiday celebrations without me, but the certainty that I made his load easier made my chest feel airy and my steps light. I loved handling details like this, ensuring everyone else had a wonderful time, secure in the knowledge that I’d done my best.
After making my rounds, however, hunger won out, and I filled a plate with turkey and various side dishes. I grabbed a sparkling water from one of the coolers of drinks. I’d done an online twelve-step meeting early that morning, and my recovery was in a strong place. Unlike past holidays, I wasn’t tempted to drink or add chemical enhancement to an already satisfying experience. Other than the slight, manageable jealousy over Maverick and Colt’s happiness, I was content with my life.
That teeny bit of longing, though, kept me from seeking a spot near the happy couple. I could have joined any number of other guests, and indeed, I was about to head toward the dining room when I spotted a familiar face seated on the back stairs.