He leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees, eyes tracing the lines of the flyer. The thought of entering the rodeo lit a fire in his belly, one that had been doused years ago when he’d hung up his spurs for good.
But could he?
Should he?
“Sounds like a lot of money for a good cause,” Eli murmured. The possibility of getting in the ring again sent shivers down his spine. He could almost hear the roar of the crowd, feel the beast beneath him bucking for freedom.
“Look, no pressure,” she said softly, willing him to meet her gaze. “It’s just an option. There are other ways we can help Willow raise money for the shelter. Hopefully I can do the story justice and donations will come in.”
“You will kill it, like always,” Eli said with a smile. “Thank you. For this.” He gestured to the flyer. “And for writing the story.”
“You never need to thank me, Eli” she said.
Eli gave a final nod and headed for the door, feeling the stir of something akin to hope fluttering in his chest.
Later that afternoon, Willow moved with a sense of purpose around The Naked Moose. She carefully arranged the tables into a long row. She sorted through an array of craft supplies, setting out scissors, glue guns, and ribbons, all the while thinking of that thoughtless comment and hating how much it got inside her head.
She was fanning out stacks of colored paper and jars filled with buttons and beads when the door swung open, jangling the rustic bell above. Sally Carter, the local reporter for theTimber Falls Gazette, entered with a vibrancy that she always had when she came into the bar. Her eyes sparkled with an energy that was as infectious as it was genuine, her notebook clutched in her hand.
“Hi, Willow, hope I’m not too early,” Sally chirped.
She’d called a few hours ago to inquire about Empowerment Elves and asked if she could write a story on the group. “Perfect timing, actually,” Willow replied. After the comment, Sally’s interest was the bit of good news she needed. “I’m just finishing up with the setup.”
“Mind if I take a look around? It’s amazing what you’re doing here,” Sally said, her eyes sweeping over the half-full box of Christmas cards from yesterday’s event.
“Of course, make yourself at home.” Willow watched as Sally moved to the box.
She leaned in to examine a pile of cards. “These are beautiful. The personal touch really shines through.”
“Thank you,” Willow responded, tucking her hands into her jean pockets. “Every piece crafted here carries a story—pieces of bravery and resilience.”
Sally nodded, scribbling notes. “I can’t wait to share this event. The community needs to see the strength gathered around these tables.”
Willow agreed, but did grow curious. “Can I ask how you found about what we’re doing here? Through social media?”
“Eli asked me to do the story.”
Willow’s heart skipped a beat. “Eli asked you to do this story?” she repeated.
“Yep,” Sally confirmed with an enthusiastic nod. “He thinks what you’re doing here is pretty amazing. Said it deserved to be in the spotlight.”
An unexpected rush coursed through Willow’s veins. She found herself momentarily speechless with gratitude threatening to spill over. “I...wow, I didn’t expect him to do that.”
Sally’s lips curled into a knowing smile. “It’s not just about the story for me either. I was best friends with Eli’s sister, you know. This—” she gestured around the room lined with glitter, glue and courage “—this cause is close to my heart too.”
Willow returned the smile. “Then this story is in the right hands.”
“Absolutely,” Sally replied. “Let’s make sure everyone hears about the incredible work happening right here.” She glanced around. “Is this where the magic happens?”
“Every bit of it,” Willow replied, casting a proud glance around the room.
Sally leaned in, her eyes scanning the array of supplies on the table. “And the community’s been supportive?”
“More than I ever imagined,” Willow said, leaving out the horrible comment from a likely troll. “Local businesses donated materials. I can definitely give you their names.”
“Please,” Sally said.
Right then, the door opened, ushering in a draft of crisp mountain air and a half dozen women. Laughter and soft greetings filled the space, making Willow’s skin tingle with anticipation.
