My Cowboy Prince (*unedited)

Chapter 11

The next morning, I find myself lingering over a quiet breakfast with Grandma Bea and Luke's father. His presence is a stark contrast to the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the ranch. The polished demeanor and crisp suit seem out of place in the cozy, rustic kitchen, and the contrast couldn't be more pronounced. Luke is conspicuously absent, and I can't shake the feeling that he won't be joining us at all. I try to finish my meal and brush off the weight of the unsaid lingering in the air.

Grandma Bea, ever the gracious host, offers more eggs and bacon. "Are you sure you don't want another helping, dear? You hardly touched your plate."

I smile, trying to mask my unease. "No, thank you, Grandma Bea. It is delicious, though."

As I push my chair back, Mr. Donovan clears his throat, drawing my attention. His expression is a mix of impatience and concern. "Beatrice, we need to discuss Luke's future. This ranch, while sentimental, isn't sustainable long-term. He has a position waiting for him in Manhattan, a real opportunity."

Grandma Bea's expression hardens slightly, though she keeps her tone polite. "We've had this conversation before, Jonathan. Luke knows what he wants, and it's not life in the city. This ranch means more to him than just land; it's his home, his heritage."

Mr. Knight sighs, leaning back in his chair. "I understand that, but he has responsibilities beyond this place. The family business needs him, and I believe you can convince him to reconsider."

I glance between them, feeling like an outsider in a private discussion. The tension is palpable, the conversation is clearly a long-standing debate. Grandma Bea remains calm, her voice steady. "Jonathan, Luke is his own man. He's made his choice, and I support him in that. The business in New York isn't his dream; it's yours."

Mr. Knight's jaw tightens, and he looks down at his plate. "I'm just worried about him. The ranch won't last forever, and I don't want him to miss out on opportunities that could secure his future."

Grandma Bea softens slightly, reaching out to pat his hand. "We all worry about those we love, but we must let them follow their own path. Luke will find his way, whether it's here or elsewhere."

As the conversation lingers, I feel increasingly like an intruder in a family matter. I rise from my seat, offering a polite smile. "Thank you for breakfast, Grandma Bea. I think I'll take a walk around the property."

Grandma Bea nods, her eyes kind. "Of course, dear. Enjoy the fresh air."

As I make my way out of the kitchen, I can't help but feel the weight of his father's words hanging in the air. Mr. Knight's concern seem genuine, but Luke's commitment to the ranch is equally strong. The contrast between their worlds couldn't be starker, and I wonder how Luke navigates this tension. Determined to find him, I head out to the stable, hoping to escape the charged atmosphere of the house.

The scent of hay and the soft sounds of horses greet me as I approach the stable. I spot Luke inside, busy feeding the horses. His back is turned to me, and for a moment, I watch him in his element. The steady rhythm of his movements contrasts with the chaotic thoughts swirling in my mind.

"Hey, Cowboy," I call out, breaking the silence. "You didn't wake me..."

He pours the feed into a trough and then turns toward me, a faint smile playing on his lips. "I know, but you, City Girl, are still on vacation. All that social media stuff can wait. Besides, we're getting plenty of people interested. I'd say it's served its purpose."

I lean against the stable door, feeling the tension ease slightly. "Aw, are you uncomfortable with all the attention you've been getting?" I tease, hoping to lighten the mood.