Roping The Cowgirl's Heart

Chapter 10

Savannah

As we climbed into my old pickup truck, I couldn't help but feel a sense of déjà vu. How many times had we made this same journey. Back when we were young and in love and the world seemed full of endless possibilities? But things were different now, the weight of our history hanging heavy between us.

The drive into town was quiet, Wyatt seemed lost in his thoughts. I couldn't stop thinking about it earlier this morning. When he told me he didn't want me to know something about his past. My mind went full speed trying to keep up with everything that had just happened in the past few days. All of this is happening too fast... I hope I can keep my head above water.

I pulled the truck up in front of Benjamin Hartman's office. I was puzzled as to why Wyatt wanted to stop here before heading to the bank. He'd been so quiet on the drive over, I wondered if it had anything to do with this secret of his.

"I just need to speak with Mr. Hartman for a few minutes," Wyatt said, turning to me with a slight frown. "I'll be quick, I promise."

"Okay, sure." I nodded, watching as he opened the truck door. He eased his casted leg out and balanced himself with his crutches. I hated seeing him in pain, even though he tried to hide it.

As Wyatt made his way into the building, I was left alone with my thoughts. Not long ago, I'd sat in that very office with my siblings, listening as Mr. Hartman read the terms of my father's will. The weight of that memory still felt so heavy, the uncertainty of the future hanging over me.

Fifteen minutes later, the office door opened and Wyatt emerged, his expression unreadable. He made his way back to the truck, his movements a little slower than before.

"Everything okay?" I asked as he settled himself back in the passenger seat.

"Yeah, everything's fine." He gave me a reassuring smile, but I could tell something was on his mind. "Let's head to the bank now, shall we?"

I started the engine and pulled out onto the main street, my gaze darting to Wyatt every so often. He stared straight ahead, lost in thought. I wanted to ask him what he and Mr. Hartman had discussed, but I didn't want to be nosy.

When we arrived at the bank, Wyatt insisted on coming in with me. He leaned on a crutch as we made our way through the lobby. The manager greeted us, leading us to a private office.

"Miss McKinley, it's good to see you again. And you must be Wyatt Jameson—our city's Bull Riding Champ? I've heard a lot about you." The manager, Mr. Peters, shook Wyatt's hand with a friendly smile.

Damn. News travels fast in this town... I can't believe that everyone already knew about Wyatt being back in here.

"It's nice to meet you, sir," Wyatt replied. I could hear the slight strain in his voice, and I wondered if the short walk had tired him out.

We sat down across from Mr. Peters. I launched into an explanation of the ranch's financial troubles. I detailed the losses we'd incurred over the past few years and my dire need for a loan to keep the place afloat.

Mr. Peters listened, jotting down notes and asking thoughtful questions. I could feel my nerves building with each passing minute, my heart pounding in my chest. This was probably my last chance to save the ranch.

"Well, Miss McKinley. I must say, I'm impressed by your dedication to the family business," Mr. Peters said, leaning back in his chair. "It's clear you've put a lot of thought into this. Unfortunately, given the ranch's recent financial history, I'm not sure we can offer you a loan."

My heart sank, and I felt Wyatt's hand on my arm, a show of support. "Is there anything else we can do?" I asked.

Mr. Peters pursed his lips, considering. "There is one option I can suggest, but it would take some creative financing." He glanced between Wyatt and me. "Are you two... together?"