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“I sure hope you are, Benny.” Jake set his empty plate aside. “We’ve invested a good deal in those cattle.”
“Another year and you’ll get your investment back, Jake. There’s a real market for the beef in big cities. It’s catching on in smaller communities. You’re in a good spot to take advantage of the trend.”
Beth’s brows scrunched together. “Trend?”
Benny nodded. “Yes. The whole farm-to-market trend. Chefs want to offer local food. Their customers like the idea of ordering items sourced from the region where they live.”
“Or visit,” Quinn said.
“Right. Vacationers drive much of the demand.” Rising, Benny filled a glass with water, drinking every ounce before filling it again.
Logan stood, picking up empty plates and carrying them into the kitchen. He’d gotten into the habit of doing the dishes when eating with Quinn and Abbie or Jake and Beth. They cooked, he cleaned. Always seemed a good deal to him.
“Let me help.” Sam opened the dishwasher, loading plates and utensils.
“You sure surprised everyone with your cooking.”
“My mother thought I’d better have a skill besides working horses and cattle. I spent a few hours every week cooking, sewing, all the stuff she knew. It was worth the time.”
“I agree. Everything was great, Sam. I owe you a dinner out.”
“You don’t owe me anything, Logan. It was fun cooking for more than just me.”
“I’m surprised you cook at all with the meals Beth and Abbie prepare at Whistle Rock.”
“I don’t cook often. Every few weeks, or if I’m late for breakfast. Or if I just want some time alone. You know how it is.”
Logan nodded. “I believe I do. There are nights I get into my truck and drive. Nowhere in particular in mind. Just drive. Sometimes, I wonder if the best decision would be to return home.”
“To your mother?” Closing the dishwasher door, she leaned against the counter. She knew the story of why he’d come to the Kelman Ranch to find his half-brother. At the time, Quinn had no idea about Logan’s existence.
“I might go to my father’s place. He’s getting older and could use the help.”
“I’ll miss you, Logan. You’re about the only man I can meet up with for dinner and dancing.”
“I haven’t made up my mind, Sam. It’s something to consider. Don’t you ever think about going home?”
“To Oklahoma?”
He nodded.
“For a visit, but not to live. My parents sold the ranch last year. They bought a house in town with three bedrooms and two baths on an oversized lot. Mom has a garden and Pop sits on the porch with the neighbors. Every so often, he bakes something.” Her small smile held a hint of wistfulness. “I’d never be able to move back for good.”
“Never say never, Sam.”
“You’re right. I’ll probably inherit their house. And Pop’s rocking chair.”
They both laughed at the picture Sam painted.
“Logan! Sam! Get out here.”
The light moment turned serious as both ran through the living room to the front porch. They stood frozen alongside the others, watching flames lick the sides of a barn at Whistle Rock Ranch.
“I have to get down there.” Sam pulled keys from a pocket as she ran to her truck. Jumping inside, she wasn’t surprised to see Logan slide in on the passenger side.
Chapter Six
The fire didn’t look quite as bad as it had from the Kelmans’ front porch. Pulling to a stop away from the burning barn, Sam and Logan jumped out as Jake and the others parked beside them.
