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“I’m not talking about riding a horse. I’m talking about your sister.”
“Sage?”
“Do you have another?”
J.T. laughed. “No. Just the one, fortunately.”
“Between raising five kids and running the business, I don’t have any time for a woman. Especially a… Let me put this in a way that won’t get me in trouble. An intriguing woman like Sage.”
“Intriguing, huh? I thought maybe you just found her mildly interesting.”
Xander laughed. “I don’t have time for a mildly interesting woman, either. You don’t need to worry. My plate is full. And will be for the foreseeable future.”
“It’s nothing against you, man.”
“I know. I get it. I don’t have a sister. But I’m dreading the day Olivia brings home some guy.”
“How old is she?”
“Fourteen.”
J.T. blew out a breath. “Won’t be long. Just try to steer her away from the rodeo guys. Not a lot of future there.”
“I’ll remember that.” Xander looked at J.T. “I’ve heard the gossip about your situation. As someone else who foundthemselves a father overnight, I’m available if you ever need to talk.”
J.T. nodded. “I appreciate that. With only one kid, and a mother used to carrying the load, I should be fine. But I guess you never know what might come up.”
“I can guarantee that sentiment. Right when you think you have everything in control, all hell breaks loose.”
J.T. laughed. “I can’t even imagine raising five kids. You’re alright, Xander.”
He smiled. “Thanks. Just not alright enough for Sage?”
“It’s your situation, not you personally.”
“Hmm. Yet, you’ve been worried about me from the start. Before you knew my situation.”
“I’m a big brother. What can I say? You were new in town. And newcomers often don’t stick around very long.” He spotted someone ahead who seemed to be having some trouble with his horse. “I better go take care of that.”
“See you around the campfire, J.T.”
“Can’t wait.” He nudged Pablo into a trot and circled the kids to go help with the troublesome rider. It was the rider, after all. The horse knew what he was doing.
Sage was riding several yards behind Xander and J.T. When she saw J.T. ride off, she trotted up beside Xander, then matched the pace of his horse.
“I see you haven’t forgotten how to ride.”
He smiled at her. “I haven’t fallen off yet.”
“I don’t see that happening. Are you having fun?”
“Yeah. It’s good to be on a horse again. And the kids are loving it.”
“They’re good kids, Xander. You’re doing a great job with them.”
“I guess time will tell.”
She watched J.T. calm down the horse and rider who had wandered off the trail and into some brush. “I hope my brother was friendly to you.”
