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Today I'm out looking at another ranch with my brothers. Mom and Dad couldn't make it, but promised if they thought this was it, they'd take a look tomorrow. It's been a while since I've had alone time with my brothers, so it's good to catch up.
They have been talking about buying a ranch and running it together since they were in high school, maybe even before that. So I love being with them as they check out a possible ranch.
Driving down the dirt road that leads to the ranch, I listen as my brothers make plans. They talk about the cattle they would raise and the crops they would plant. In my mind's eye, I could see them working together, making their dream a reality. It makes me happy to see them so enthusiastic about something.
When we arrive at the ranch house, their real estate agent, who goes by Maverick, is waiting for us on the porch.
"Hey guys, this place is bigger than the last one we saw, and it needs work, but I think it could be the one for you. It's not officially on the market yet, so you are the first to see it," he says.
It's on the same side of the lake as our parents’ house and the home is built on one corner of it. It looks like a Texas farmhouse and is in decent condition.
"Over the years, the home has had some remodels done. Even though it was built in the 1920s, it’s up to code with new electricity and plumbing put in two years ago. I'll let you take a look around and let me know what you think," Maverick says.
"What do you think, Jenna? Would a woman like to live here one day?" Asher asks.
"The way she is going, maybe this should be her house, and we just set up on the other three corners of the property," Zach jokes.
"That's not a bad idea. You are always welcome if you want to get out on your own," Asher says.
Finn nods his head, “Yeah, it would be great."
"Thank you, guys, but that's not really where my heart is. But I'll keep it open as an option. Never know where life might take me. Though for sure, I might come out here to write."
"Whenever, you want, you don’t need an invitation." Asher pulls me against him for a side hug.
"The kitchen is a good size. Appliances will get you through,” I say, “but a woman will want to update them. Hardwood floors are nice, plan for rugs, especially in the winter. The dining room is big enough for the whole family. The laundry room leads outside so you guys can come in, strip there and not track dirt throughout the house. There is even an office space down here. So far, so good."
I switch gears and we go upstairs to look at the four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Other than some paint on the walls, it’s good to go.
"Why don't you guys go look at the barn and bunkhouse out back?” Maverick says. “My wife is calling, and I’ll join you and tell you more about the land in a few."
"So, what's new with you? Seeing anyone?" Finn winks at me as we walk down to the barn.
He is such a playboy, but I love him all the same. "No, nothing new. Just focusing on my writing and trying to get published."
Asher chuckles. "That's our Jenna, always chasing her dreams."
I smile at him, feeling grateful for my brothers and their unwavering support.
"Can I ask you guys a question, though?" I want to get an opinion from them because I know they won't push for more info than I'm ready to divulge.
"Always. What's up?" Zach asks, and they all stop to look at me as we reach the barn.
"What would you think of me dating an older guy?" I ask.
"Anyone we know?" Asher looks at me, studying my face.
I shake my head. "No, just in general. I met a guy recently who's slightly older than me and I'm curious what you guys think."
"How much older?" Zach asks.
"I don't know. Fifteen years or so?" I’m cringing, hoping they don't bring up Josh.
Finn smirks. "Well, older guys are more experienced, right? Maybe he can show you a thing or two."
I roll my eyes at him. "That's not what I meant. I just don't want you guys to think I'm making a mistake or anything."
Zach puts a hand on my shoulder. "Jenna, we trust your judgment. If you think he's a good guy, then we're happy for you."
