My Country Home

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 5

After Amelia decided to stay on the ranch and got dressed for the day, she went downstairs to find Wyatt, Luke, and Clint talking in the living room.

"I thought you didn't wanna do it again this year, Wyatt?"

Clint holding up a flier for the 39th Annual County Fair.

"I didn't but with Luke back and Amelia on hand, I think it's worth takin' a shot at some of that prize money."

"But the fair starts tomorrow!"

"Did you say prize money, what for?"

"The County Fair has competitions for everything from livestock, cooking, and even eating."

"A livestock competition seems like a safe bet which you guys have lots of cows and stuff around here."

"It's not enough to just have them, they need to look the part as well."

"I bet Carter can pick out a winner since he's like a cow whisperer."

"What about the pie-baking contest? If we're gonna do this, we gotta go all in at our best."

Luke and Clint looked at Wyatt as he rubbed the back of his neck.

"I'd do it but we all know what happened two years ago."

"I don't know what happened."

"You're better off, believe me."

"Well, if Wyatt's not up for it, I can make something because when it comes to baking, I lack in skill but I make up for with enthusiasm so hand me a recipe and I'll try anything but just can't guarantee it'll be edible."

"That's the spirit! Plus, Max could help you."

"So, is the prize money $12,000?"

"No, but it's a start as every little bit helps."

"If we win the pie contest and the cattle competition, we'll walk away with a bit of cash which would be enough to put up some ads and drum up some interest in our cattle."

"Kinda like a snowball effect."

"Precisely."

"So, what do we do first?"

"Up to you, I s'pose. You could help Carter pick out a cow."

"Or Max can help you with the pie."

"And I have to let the horses out, but I'd never say no to some company."

"Let's start with the livestock competition prep."

"Great, I'll have Carter meet you in the pasture."

Amelia went outside as Carter appeared by the fence.

"Wyatt said you needed some help?"

"Hey, Carter and yeah, we need to pick out the best-looking cow for the livestock judging at the County Fair tomorrow and by 'we', I mean you because I don't know anything about cattle and you get to spend time with me as we have an excuse to spend the whole afternoon together."

"There is that."

Amelia looked out over the large pasture where the cows were calmly grazing over many acres.

"What about that one, with the spots? She's pretty."

"She's a little narrow in the haunches and these kinds of competitions wanna see a nice balance on the top line, sharp withers, and a deep flank."

"Right, of course."

"I've got a couple cows in mind, let's see if we can find them."

Carter and Amelia walked together further out into the pasture.