Chapter 8

Back at the barn, Ramon helped him wipe down Wit again and get her out to pasture. They walked back to Ramon’s car, hands brushing one another’s.

“Can I see you again?” Ramon jangled his car keys, seeming antsy. He glanced at Brandon, then away.

“Sure. You know where to find me.” Brandon smiled and held out one hand.

Ramon shook his head and stepped against him, pressing a kiss on his cheek. “Thanks for the ride, Brandon. And understanding. And everything.”

* * * *

When Brandon went to check on Nit and Wit on Sunday, he hung around, cleaning off tack and re-organizing the feed stall. He heard a car pull up, took a deep breath, and turned, hoping it was Ramon.

Instead, it was Celeste.

“Hey, big brother. Wanna go for a ride?” Celeste hoisted her custom saddle from the back of her truck.

“Let’s go!”