Page 34 of Holding Hope

I turned back to the window. The riders were close enough now that I could make out the colors of their handkerchiefs. Most big-city riders came from ranches like ours and wore colors to represent them—the closest thing we had to family rings.

One wore burgundy and gold.

I exhaled in relief.

One of my father’s ranch hands—probably someone hired while I was on tour.

The other wore deep green and silver. I stifled an eye roll.

Slumping back into my seat, I glanced at Avalon, still panicked.

“You can put your jewelry back on, Avalon. These boys won’t kill us.”

I laughed and leaned out the window.

“They couldn’t even if they tried!”

The first rider laughed, pulling his horse to a stop a few feet away. “I can still throw you over my shoulder, Kit.”

He leaned forward, resting his forearms on the saddle horn.

He tipped his head back, sunlight illuminating his features—strong jawline, broad nose, and the same playful blue eyes I’d grown up seeing.

“Long time no see, Colt. I like the mustache—is it new?” I ran a finger over my upper lip, laughing when my brother sat back and let out a booming laugh.

“You know how it is in the city, little sis—anything to keep the ladies around.”

Colt nudged his friend, who pulled his horse up beside him.

“What is going on? You know these ruffians?” Avalon whispered, peeking out the window.

Nodding, I opened the door and jumped out. My boots hit the loose ground with a satisfying crunch as I walked toward my brother.

“It’s just Colt and Ethan. They’re harmless.”

“Harmless? Well now, I find that offensive, Clarke.”

Ethan placed a hand over his heart, smiling. His curly hair poked out from under his hat.

When I was younger—before I understood myself—I used to imagine ending up with Ethan Lautner. He was sweet, well-mannered, and practically family. But he’d taken it well when I told him the truth. He’d laughed and asked if I wanted to help break in the new filly.

Ethan was a good guy. A great friend to Colton. A second brother to Melody.

He was also staring at Avalon like she’d grown a second head.

“What the hell…” His voice trailed off. “Oh wait, I know you.”

He pointed at Avalon, who had finally stepped out of the truck.

“You do?” she asked cautiously.

“You’re that girl who served a nasty right hook to the pap last year, ain’t ya?”

Avalon beamed. I resisted the urge to gag.

I left them and walked to Demeter, running my hand down her fine coat. She nickered and nudged me, searching for treats. I laughed softly and pulled out the sugar cubes I always kept in my pocket.

“I’ve missed you, pretty girl.”