Serenade at sunset

Ch3:Life at the ranch

The next morning, Lila was awakened by the sound of roosters crowing and the smell of fresh coffee. She dressed in jeans and a flannel shirt, a far cry from her usual designer outfits, and made her way to the main house.

Jack and the ranch hands were already gathered around the table, eating breakfast. He motioned for her to join them.

"Morning, Lila," Jack greeted her. "Ready for your first day?"

"As ready as I'll ever be," she replied with a nervous laugh.

Jack assigned her to work with Hank for the day, learning the basics of ranch life. She mucked out stalls, fed the horses, and even tried her hand at milking a cow. It was hard work, but Lila found it strangely satisfying.

During their lunch break, Hank shared stories about life on the ranch. He spoke of the harsh winters, the long hours, and the deep sense of community among the ranch hands. Lila listened intently, fascinated by a world so different from her own.

That evening, after a long day of work, Lila found herself alone by the campfire. She picked up her guitar, an old habit that brought her comfort, and began to strum softly. Her voice, usually reserved for sold-out arenas, floated gently on the evening breeze.

Jack approached, drawn by the sound. He listened quietly for a while before sitting down next to her. "You've got a beautiful voice, Lila."

"Thank you," she said, blushing. "It's been a while since I sang just for the joy of it."

"Mind if I join you?" he asked, surprising her.

"Sure," she replied, handing him the guitar.

Jack's fingers moved expertly over the strings, playing a melody that was simple yet soulful. Lila joined in, their voices harmonizing perfectly. For the first time in a long while, she felt truly connected to someone.