Page 36 of One Wild Chance

“Actually, we’re looking to expand our operations.”

Hank lifts an eyebrow. “How so?”

“We’ve got a healthy business with the mare barn and stud operations.”

Branford’s smile becomes a little cooler. “Well, expanding is a big risk too. Can really ruin a farm if you don’t gamble on the right horses. Think your daddy learned that a time or two.”

“I think all farmers learn that at some point,” I add.

He searches the crowd, hands on hips, before fishing a business card from his pocket. “You know, I could always make your situation a little easier. Call me if you want to talk.” He passes me his card. “Now, if you’ll excuse me.” He tips his hat before he moves back into the crowd.

I turn it over in my hands, rubbing my thumb over the embossed logo. Something in my gut tells me that Hank’s not someone to mess with. I’ve played enough hockey to know when someone’s coming in for a hit, and Hank Branford has that same look. Even if he could help me, I have a feeling it would come with strings attached. Men like Hank aren’t generous out of the goodness of their hearts.

James nods toward the business card. “If you decide to sell, you should at least let Hank make you an offer. He doesn’t like to lose.”

“Neither do I,” I tell him.

James chuckles. “You sound just like your dad.” Then he pats me on the shoulder.

I head back toward Summer’s booth, still thinking about my conversation with Hank. I need to figure out how I’m going to tell my brothers that I basically turned away the biggest breeder in the area. Maybe in two years I’ll feel differently, but right now the man is a snake in the grass waiting for me to fail. Which means I can’t mess this up.

I’m staring at the Branford Farms card when I hear Summer’s laugh from across the street. I glance over and see Blaine Callahan at her booth, standing so close she has to tilt her head up to see him.

What’s Paralegal Boy doing here?

He’s still wearing a tie, on a Saturday morning at a farmers market, of all places. The guy has no idea how ridiculous he looks. He hands her some papers, then leans in closer, and that’s when something inside me snaps.

“Summer!” I call, zigzagging through the crowd to get to her.

She whirls around and looks at me like she forgot I was even here. “Oh, hey.”

I glare at Blaine. “Callahan.”

“Didn’t expect to see you here,” Blaine says. “I figured a farmers market might be beneath you.”

“It’s not.” I nod toward his shirt. “Nice tie.”

He glances down, straightening the paisley tie with his hand. “Thank you.”

“It’s Saturday, you know,” I say.

“So?”

“You got a funeral to go to or something?”

“No.” He stares at me blankly. “I come every week and stop by Summer’s booth, and then I pick up a bouquet for the law office.”

Every week? “That’s dedication,” I say flatly.

He eyes me warily. “Summer’s business deserves support.”

“Sure does.” I narrow my gaze, not buying his explanation. I’m pretty sure I know why he’s here, and it’s not for the flowers.

I turn back to Summer. “I’d like to buy all your remaining bouquets.”

Her mouth falls open slightly. “Um…what did you say?”

“I want your entire table,” I repeat, pulling out my credit card. I’m not going to admit it’s to one-up Blaine and make up for Summer’s losses.