I’ve not asked him once if he’d like to get out of town for a day or anything about what he might like to do in the city before coming here. I’ve been so focused on having him experience the ranch for his job, I’ve not really asked him what he likes.
“I’m a shit boyfriend,” I mumble to the horse I’ve brought into the stall. Thankfully, the horse doesn’t confirm it, and I push my failings aside and get to work.
Our groupof excited campers has assembled, and while Gunner and I show them how to pack their saddle bags and check in with each one on their riding skills and expectations, a familiar Jeep drives into the yard and parks next to my truck.
“Will you help us with the tents?” a man asks, and I bring my attention back to the group.
“Yes, of course. We’re here to help you with anything you need and bring you a memorable experience for your overnight trip. Don’t be afraid to ask.”
Ethan hangs at the edge of the group, and once they settle into their tasks, I step away to greet him.
“Hi. Are you joining us?”
He nods once, but chews on his lip. “I came ready to, but I’m still scared.”
With a quick glance over my shoulder at the group, I pull Ethan around the corner when Gunner gives me the up nod that he’s got everything under control.
“I don’t want you being scared, Ethan. Don’t feel you have to do this, okay? I mean that. It’s not for everyone.”
His hand reaches for me, and I quickly grab it with mine and squeeze gently.
“I know. It’s…if I’m with you, it’ll be okay, right?”
“I won’t let anything happen to you.”
“Okay.” He exhales an extended breath. “I want to do this. I can bring my camera, right?”
“I hope so. You’ll see some amazing views tonight and again tomorrow.”
Ethan’s smile loses its tightness, and he nods. “I’ll get my stuff.”
After kissing his knuckles, I release his hand so he can do that.
He jogs over to his Jeep while I rejoin Gunner, who raises an eyebrow. I give him a thumbs up. He excuses himself from the couple he’s chatting with and strides over.
“Put Ethan on the horse in front of you. You’ll bring up the back as usual. Fair warning, we’ll keep the tents close tonight. I spotted a few black bears near the cattle last week. They rarely bother us, but you know the drill.”
“Yep. Do the bear safety talk once he comes back, then leave? He’s already nervous, but the talk usually calms the nervous ones.”
“Yeah, agreed.”
It’s almost time for us to head out, and Gunner gathers us all in a tight group to go over bear safety. A few teenagers titter nervously and reach for their parents, while Ethan reaches for my hand, then changes his mind. He stands tall, lips pressed together tightly.
I pass him the whistle and bear spray on a lanyard, and he puts them around his neck.
“You sure you’re good?”
“Yes. Let’s do this before I change my mind.”
Kissing him quickly, I whisper, “Sleeping under the stars will be your favorite memory when you leave here. You won’t regret it.”
The campfire flickersin the darkness and pops occasionally, sending a plume of sparks up into the air.
Most of the campers have retired to their tents for the rest of the night. After a ride to the foothills, a hike around the small lake, and working first to make dinner, then to clean up properly, it’s been a full night.
Ethan’s nerves left when we stopped at the first lookout, which had a small lake below us. It’s more of a marsh, really, but still pretty. We allowed him more time than usual at the spot since he was technically documenting for the ranch. I was just happy to see his nerves finally settle.
He was a natural with the guests, offering to take photos, just like he did with the group that was rained out a few weeks ago. I admire the ease he has with new people. Envy him, really. That kind of feeling was never easy for me.
