Page 77 of Home Is Where You Are

Ainsleigh: Yeah, I know, but I’ll figure it out. Loretta’s retiring, and her position is mine if I want it. I should tell my dad soon because if I don’t take it he needs to start interviewing candidates. I just don’t know if I want my identity to only be a Courtright, if that makes sense.

I loved my family and everything about the ranch, but there was nothing wrong with seeing what else was out there. The world was filled with endless possibilities, and I wanted to make sure I chose the right one for me.

Aspen: You’ll figure it out, and whatever you choose you’re going to be amazing.

That’s one of the reasons I loved her. She always gave the best encouraging advice.

Ainsleigh: Gotta get back to work. Love y’all.

Everything was looking up.

With a pep in my step, I set off to finish my lunch break and get back to work. I had an interview to prepare for and a decision to give my daddy. It felt good to have options.

twenty-five

GENTRY

“You’ve been in a weird mood all day. What gives?” Holden asked as we leaned against the wall in the clubhouse.

On Monday’s the family joined the new guests in the clubhouse for dinner. I loved how Sawyer wanted to be a part of making sure that the guests felt like Courtright Ranch was their home away from home.

“Don’t wanna talk about it,” I said as I gripped my water bottle. I couldn’t tell my best friend the feelings I had for his sister.

“Tough. Spill,” he demanded.

Holden hated seeing anyone in an off mood. He’d always been attuned to my emotions, especially when I didn’t want to speak a word.

Just then I noticed the reason for my mood entering the clubhouse.

She was so beautiful I couldn’t tear my eyes away from her. She’d changed into a yellow sundress and a pair of white cowboy boots. Her blond hair flowed freely down her back, full of those messy curls that I loved.

My teeth hurt with how tight my jaw set at the sight of her. I wanted to go over to her, but refrained. We weren’t official, even if I hoped that’s where we were headed, we hadn’t talked about that yet, and I couldn’t risk the questions if I went over to her, not the way I wanted to at least.

Holden followed my line of sight before I could divert my attention.

“I get it now. My sister is the reason.”

Why did he have to be so perceptive?

“I. Don’t. Want. To. Talk. About. It,” I bit out as I walked away. I needed to get away from him before I spilled my guts about the feelings I harbored for his sister.

He followed me across the room.

Of course he did.

“Gentry, wait,” he said as he grasped my shoulder.

I stopped but didn’t turn around.

I couldn’t let him see the anguish on my face. I promised him that I wouldn’t start anything with Ainsleigh. And I meant it. When I said it. Things changed the moment my lips met hers. Now I couldn’t get her out of my head no matter how hard I tried.

“What, Holden?”

“Did something happen between you and Ainsleigh?”

His concerned voice gave me pause.

As much as he annoyed me, I couldn’t let him stew.