Love And Rodeo

5

Katie and Anthony had been residing in Rhett's guest house for two months now. Katie's progress was noticeable—she had been sober for two months, regularly attending AA meetings, and even going back to school. Hannah couldn't help but feel proud of her little sister's determination and resilience.

As the day of the barbecue before the Homedale rodeo arrived, Hannah was bustling around, helping Lana get ready while Rhett was busy with the party preparations. Katie walked in, and Hannah greeted her with a warm smile before returning to fasten Lana's cowboy boots.

"Corbin is riding tonight," Katie mentioned, a hint of apprehension in her voice.

"I know. Are you going to be okay?" Hannah asked, concern evident in her tone.

"With you there, I hope I can resist the temptation to drink," Katie replied honestly.

"Katie, you're stronger than you think. Don't let one man undo all the hard work you've put in. I'm so proud of you. Tonight, hold your head high and show that jack," Hannah glanced at Lana, "Rabbit, that you're stronger than anything he put you through. You have all of our support."

"Thank you, Hannah. I don't know what I'd do without you," Katie expressed gratitude.

"You'd probably be face down in a gutter, and Anthony would be in child protection services' care," Hannah remarked matter-of-factly. "Now go get dressed, and I'll do your hair and makeup so we can join the party."

Katie couldn't help but smile at Hannah's blunt yet caring words. It was typical of her sister to speak the truth, even if it was harsh. Hannah may appear emotionless to others, but Katie knew better. Her sister felt deeply for their family, and her protective instincts were always at the forefront, even if she didn't openly express them.

Katie left the room, and Hannah turned her attention back to Lana, lifting her up with a smile before setting her on the bed with her tablet for entertainment. When Katie returned, Hannah was already dressed in a flowing floral dress and her boots. She gestured for Katie to sit down, and with practiced ease, she started on Katie's hair and makeup. Once they were both ready, they descended the stairs to join the party below.

As Hannah introduced Katie to the guests, a sudden sharp sting made her wince. Katie had dug her nails into her arm, her eyes fixed on something in the crowd. Hannah followed her gaze and spotted Corbin storming through the gathering.

Yelling for Rhett, Hannah scanned the area until Rhett, Kyle, and Kevin appeared, swiftly making their way toward them. Corbin's anger was palpable as he confronted Rhett.

"Move, I want to speak to Kathrine," Corbin demanded, his voice filled with hostility.

"Well, she doesn't want to talk to you. Get off my property before I call the cops," Rhett retorted firmly, signaling for Evan to escort Anthony and the girls inside to safety.

Rhett's hand moved subtly to his colt 45 as Corbin persisted, backing away only when Rhett made it clear he wouldn't hesitate to defend his family.

"You can't keep me from her forever. She'll come running back eventually," Corbin sneered, his bravado wavering under Rhett's unwavering gaze.

"Want to bet?. Leave now or face the consequences," Rhett warned, his tone steely and resolute.

With a final threat, Corbin retreated, and Rhett turned back to his family and friends, the tension dissipating as he put away his gun. Inside, he found Hannah comforting Katie, who was visibly shaken by the encounter.