Page 76 of Home Is Where You Are

“I’ve made plenty. You know what I did when something failed?”

“What’s that?”

“I fixed it. And if it couldn’t be fixed, I pivoted. You know this ranch just as well as I do. And we need a fresh set of eyes around here. A younger person to give us the edge we need to gain even more reservations. I’ll give you a few days to think it through. I can’t wait any longer than that because I need someone in Loretta’s place and training, so they are ready to go when she leaves,” he said as he stood.

He walked around his desk and pulled me into his arms.

“You can do anything you set your mind to, baby girl. I have all the faith you’re exactly what we need.”

“Thank you, Daddy.”

“Now get your butt outta here and get something to eat. I’m meeting your mama for lunch.”

I grinned at the thought that my mama was waiting for him with a home-cooked meal to eat lunch with the love of her life.

We walked out of his office together.

I stared at Loretta’s desk as my thoughts began to wander to the possibilities of how I could take Courtright Ranch to the next level.

I pulled my phone out of my pocket and checked the social media pages and website for the ranch. We had all the socials we needed and the website was okay, but it all needed a makeover and more consistent posting. The posts could also use more branded images that fit the business for a more cohesive look.

My thoughts ran rampant at the possibilities and how I could better the business with just a few hours of dedication a week.

A notification popped up from one of the companies that I’d applied to in Virginia.

I gave my phone a questioning glance as I closed the social media pages and opened the email.

Dear Ms. Courtright,

I’m writing to you in regard to your interest in the marketing position at Lundry Media. While you interviewed with our Virginia office, a position has opened in our corporate office located in Austin, TX. I noticed on your resume that you’re originally from Texas, and was wondering if you’d be interested in interviewing for this position. Please respond via email and let me know if you’re available to interview on June 4th at 2:30PM.

Best,

Delilah West

Executive Assistant to Sampson Lundry

This was totally unexpected. And this position was in Texas where I wanted to stay.

I responded back to the email and confirmed the date and time for the interview and immediately texted in the group chat I had with Aspen and Dylan to tell them the good news.

Ainsleigh: I have an interview with a marketing firm next week.

Aspen: OMG that’s amazing. Where’s it located?

That was her subtle way of asking if it was in Virginia or my home state.

Ainsleigh: It’s here in Texas. I applied to this company before we graduated college, just at the Virginia office. They loved my resume and a position opened in their corporate office.

Dylan: Heck yeah. I’m so happy for you. You’re going to knock it out of the park.

Ainsleigh: Thank y’all. I’m nervous.

Aspen: Don’t be. You’re going to nail it. I just know it. Did you tell anyone else?

Ainsleigh: I just found out. I haven’t had a chance to.

Dylan: That’s understandable. But remember secrets have a way of revealing themselves. What about working on the ranch?