Axle shakes his head. “Can’t. I’m working. Cabe’s got us all on ranch duty, tagging the new herd today.”
Daddy winces. “That sounds like a long day.”
“It probably will be.” His eyes drift toward me. “Have fun. I’ll see you tonight.”
Something about the way he says it feels personal.
“You too.”
His mouth curves slightly.
Then he tips his head. “Nice to see you guys again.”
A few minutes later, we’re climbing into Daddy’s truck.
As we pull away, I glance back, and Axle is still standing beside his cabin. Watching us leave.
The south side of Wildhaven Storm Ranch is breathtaking.
Not that the rest of the property isn’t. But this section feels different somehow. Untouched. Peaceful.
Daddy parks beside the gate, where Matty and Harleigh are already waiting by an old blue truck.
The second Harleigh sees us, she waves enthusiastically.
She’s clearly excited.
“Morning!” she calls. “Welcome to the future home of the Wildfire Guest Ranch.”
“Morning.”
We all gather near the gate.
Then Harleigh launches into presentation mode. I don’t think she even says hello before unfolding a giant set of plans.
“Okay, so here’s what I’m thinking.”
And just like that, she’s off.
The proposed guest ranch acreage extends over rolling green hills. A crystal-clear brook winds between towering cottonwood trees. Wildflowers scatter across the landscape. In the distance, the Tetons rise against a bright blue sky. The view alone feels worth a vacation.
Harleigh turns in a slow circle. “The guest cabins will sit here.” She points toward the hillside. “Six total.”
Another point.
“There will be a general store right there, where we’ll sell essentials and some local artisan items.”
Another.
“The pavilion with an outdoor kitchen will be in this area with long family-style picnic tables. Where we will serve chef-prepared ranch cuisine. Everything from farm-to-table dinners to cowboy cookouts. It’s where we’ll host live music some evenings.”
Then she turns.
“Firepits will be over there with lots of seating. And behind them will be the barn and stables for the trail horses. An outdoor arena for mini rodeo shows. And staff housing.”
Another.
“Main office and the lodge. It’ll be a central gathering place, where guests can grab a cocktail, play pool, and just hang out. The office will also be where guests pick up gear for fly fishing, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, and other activities.”
