“He’s coming with me. His grandpa has agreed to front the money for a small restaurant in Fredericksburg. He’ll finally get to run his own place. He said he’ll even learn to, and I quote, ‘get along those little dogies or whatever y’all do.’”
We both laugh. Trace had to grow on me slowly, but I think he’s perfect for my brother now.
“Well, I’m not going to tell you what to do. That’s a decision you have to make on your own. I will admit, however, that it would be nice to have you around again.”
“So, I can stay here this summer while I intern?”
“It’s your room. Hell, this is half your ranch.”
“Trace, too, on the days he comes here to visit?”
“Sure.”
“And what about where Harmony will stay when she’s here?” I study him closely. There’s no doubt in his eyes that I can work it out with her.
“She’s not staying in your room, I can guarantee that.”
“I’ll bring noise canceling headphones.” He grins at me. I shake my head. Jesus, this kid. “Now, how do we convince Harmony this can work?”
“I have no idea. I haven’t even convinced myself yet.”
“We need a plan,” he says. We both fall silent again trying to work out a logical plan. “Let’s figure out what she would need to stay here part of the year and what you need to live in Nashville part of the time. Then how you would handle touring. Can you handle spending time in Tennessee?”
“Yeah, I’ve only been there once, but I liked it. Same laidback pace as here. I’m sure I could figure it out, but what happens here when I’m gone?”
“That’s what we have to figure out. First let’s work on Harmony’s list, then we’ll tackle yours. I think top priority would be a studio.”
“How would I do that?” I ask. It’s not like the house has hidden rooms we haven’t used yet. My office would never be big enough for her, and there are only two bedrooms.
“I know a guy, or more accurately, I know the wife of a guy. I’ll give you her number.”
By the time we realize it’s way past when I usually go to bed, we have a workable plan. It still sounds a little impossible to me, but I’ve promised Travis to try.
I really want it to work. He insists the first step to put the plan into motion is to show up for the concert tomorrow night. With the arrangements already made for a fill-in, I can’t refuse.
Ross shows up as promised to get familiar with the ranch. He’s been here before when his grandpa made a farm call, but I still show him around. He pays attention better than most high school kids I’ve dealt with. Reacher even greets him amicably enough, so I’m not too worried about them getting along.
Before I have a chance to protest, Travis has me packed into his car and headed for Dallas. I suggested that I drive myself so he doesn’t have to bring me back. He wouldn’t hear of it. I think he’s worried I’ll change my mind halfway there and turn around.
Okay, he’s not wrong. It is a consideration. Not only am I a little nervous about seeing Harmony again, I’m worried about Ross getting in over his head.
“You know his grandpa can help, if necessary, right?” Travis asks before we’ve gotten very far down the road. “The man is your vet.” I’m not sure when he began reading my mind, but it’s irritating.
“Did I say anything?” I snarl.
“Dude, I can see the smoke coming out of your ears from here. I swear everything will be fine. Try to focus on what’sahead. Step one, show up for her and declare your undying love,” he answers.
“This isn’tHigh School Musicalor whatever shit you’ve been watching.”
“First off, I have not been watching old made for TV movies, though Zac Effron can still rock that body. You’re not the only asshole who reads in this family.” He snorts in what can only be derision. “You should pick up a romance novel once in a while. Might actually learn something.”
“I can hear your bodice ripping from here.”
“You’re a jerk, you know that,” he fires back, but he’s grinning. He shoves my shoulder with his hand. I smile as I straighten back up. “How far can we drive before you need another coffee.”
“I’ve got my travel mug,” I answer, shaking the tumbler at him. “We’re good until lunch.”
“Good, there’s a place in Waco I want to try. Bladder can hold until then?”
