Page 35 of Holding Hope

She nibbled at the sweets, her whiskers tickling my palm.

“How’s the big city?”

Colt sighed, stretching in his saddle. “Oh, you know how it is.”

I nodded. City life was fast, draining, relentless. Opal Springs was slow, intentional, meaningful. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

“How long are you here for this time?” I asked, still petting Demeter.

Over my shoulder, I saw Ethan trying to help Avalon onto Spartan—his prized Palomino. Spartan was tall, powerful, and Avalon… was not. Ethan’s hands were on her waist as she tried to wedge her combat boot into the stirrup.

I laughed as she yanked her boot out, frustration written all over her face.

“I’m thinking of sticking around for the summer,” Colt said. “There’s some things I want to take care of before heading back to Nashville. They offered me a permanent job down there—no more half-year stuff.”

I nodded, fingers moving to Demeter’s dark mane. Her hair was deep brown, almost black, but in the sun, hints of red peeked through. Like Avalon’s.

“And you’re going to take it? What did Mama say?”

Colt laughed. “You know Ma. She’d rather I stay close, but she wants what’s best for me.”

I understood. Mama always wanted what was best for us—even if it meant letting us go.

“Will you be happy?” I asked.

Colton nodded, jaw tightening. “Of course. There’s just…”

He leaned closer.

“I’d like to get married before I go.”

I choked back a laugh. “You want to get married? Colt, you haven’t been in a serious relationship since high school.”

He shrugged. “So? Being in a relationship can’t be any different than breaking in a new horse. You take things slow and gentle⁠—”

“But you’re talking about marriage. No one I know would be crazy enough to marry you before summer ends.”

He cocked an eyebrow. My stomach dropped.

“Oh God no. Not her. Seriously, Colt?”

“C’mon, Kit. Even you can admit Lia’s been in love with me since we were in britches.”

I couldn’t deny it. Delia had been hopelessly in love with him for years.

“C’mon, Colt. She’s my best friend.”

“So, talk to her. Tell her how I feel.”

I chewed my lip. “How do you feel about her? Is it love?”

Colt shrugged. “I think my feelings for her may have changed this past year. She’s grown into herself.”

I smiled. Lia really had grown up. She’d always been a fairy to me — wild orange curls, green eyes, a little bit of magic.

“So will you talk to her for me?” Colt asked again.

“She’s my best friend, Colton.” I sighed. “And I know her. She’s dreamed of her wedding since we were kids. Lace dress, specific shop, banned guest list—she’s not giving that up for a shotgun wedding.”