But Shelby’s devious laugh spoke volumes and said that she was already formulating a plan.
“Don’t even think of trying to play matchmaker.I just got out of one relationship and have my hands full.”
“Oh, I know, but if it all turns out to be true you can bet you’ll be seeing a lot more of your one-night stand around this town and probably your ranch.Does that even count as a one-night stand, if he comes over later that week to fix your barn?”
“Why would you say that?”
“Well, apparently, he grew up on a ranch that bred horses.And since the Harts don’t have any horses, I’m guessing he’ll be drawn to you and your barn full of prize thoroughbreds.”
“Shelby, I am not one of the characters in your books.”
“No, but I was recently thinking maybe I should start writing some adult fiction about spitfire cowgirls and hot heroes.”
They both burst into fits of laughter again.
“Look at Jeremy out there—he’s loving this,” Shelby said.
“He needs some alpha energy, a man to teach him how to be one.”Andy sighed.
“You’re doing a great job and Wes makes sure to check in on him, attends his practices, and you know he won’t miss a game.”
“I know, and I’m so grateful.I’m just worried Jer is missing out, and I don’t want Wes to feel obligated.”
“That’s natural, but Wes understands all too well what it means to lose a father and he likes playing big brother.It’s part of who he is.”
“You’re right, and in four short years Jeremy will be headed off to college.”
“Which means you need to stay focused on your dreams and goals, and don’t be too proud to ask for help.”
“Alright.”
The men had the fencing secured in no time and the rain finally stopped, so Miranda and Shelby exited the car.They walked over to Wes where he was loading the last of his tools in the back of the unfamiliar truck and Miranda assumed it was Renn’s.She still couldn’t believe there was a fourth Hart and she’d slept with him.
“Levi’s working on a schematic for an updated doorway on this side and he’ll put together a list of all the supplies we need,” Wes said.“He said it’d be easier if he just ordered it all and then we’ll knock out the build once he’s back in town.”
Before she could respond Jeremy produced a football.“Sheriff, you got time for a little ball?”and he threw a perfect spiral.
Wes easily caught it.“Thought you’d never ask, but I don’t think these two would want to get all dirty,” Wes said pointing to Max and Renn.
“Nothing like a little mud ball,” Renn said.
Max jumped up and down with excitement as Wes tossed Renn the ball.
“Go long,” Renn said to Jeremy who took off running.But Renn waved Jeremy to back up further.
“No way,” Max said, as he watched eager to play too.
Jeremy ran to the edge of the horse pasture and Renn threw the ball like he was just casually casting a fishing line, and it landed right in Jeremy’s hands.
“Don’t see that every day,” Wes said.
Jeremy came running back toward them.“How’d you do that?”
“I’ll teach ya,” Renn said.
“Huh, maybe he belongs here more than we thought,” Shelby said.
The boys decided on some rules, and all headed out to the pasture, and before she knew it she and Shelby were leaning on the fencing watching the men play.But by the time the game was over they were all covered in mud and grass, and it started to rain again.
