Page 36 of Lost Trust

She waves me off. “She would’ve ended up in Shelby’s or Harleigh’s room anyway. I expect the four of them will pile into one bed tonight. That’s what they did the night before Matty’s wedding.”

That actually sounds nice.

I smile and wipe down the island as Evelyn cuts out the biscuits, placing each perfect round into a greased cast-iron pan.

Before I can finish, the back door flies open.

Ryder comes barreling through it and skids to a stop in the archway between the kitchen and dining room, his cheeks flushed and his little cowboy boots caked with dirt.

“Mommy! I helped pull worms off the mater plants. They were big and green and squishy.”

He holds up one filthy hand and waves it proudly in front of my face.

I wrinkle my nose. “Ew. Sounds gross.”

“It was gross!” he yells, somehow sounding thrilled by that fact.

Earl comes in behind him, chuckling. “He was a big help. My eyes ain’t as good as they used to be, and it’s hard for me to see those buggers.”

I ruffle my boy’s hair, carefully avoiding his worm-covered hands. “Good job, baby. Now let’s go get you washed up before dinner.”

Ryder takes off toward the stairs, leaving a trail of dirt behind him.

I look after him and shake my head.

Then I glance back at Evelyn. “I’ll be back to sweep this up in a minute.”

Dinner with the Storm family is loud, chaotic.

Charli introduces me to her aunt and uncle, Boone and Irene Trust, and her sisters, Matty, Harleigh, and Shelby, who recognizes me instantly.

We settle into the dining room, and there are too many people around the table to keep track of, conversations overlapping, laughter breaking out.

I’m helping Ryder cut into a pork chop when Shelby catches my eye.

“I’m so glad you’re here,” she says, reaching across the table to squeeze my hand.

I grin. “I’m glad to be here.”

Shelby and I go way back. We rode the junior circuit together, back when our biggest concerns were keeping our horses healthy, making our next entry fee, and praying we didn’t blow a run in front of a crowd.

“I heard you might be joining us at the academy,” she says.

I glance at Charli.

She gives me a wink as she stands and walks to the kitchen.

“It’s something I’m considering,” I admit.

Shelby’s smile gets even bigger. “I hope you are.”

“Are you sure?” I asks as I slide the plate back in front of Ryder. “I’d never want to step on your toes.”

“Lord, no.” She waves a hand dismissively. “I need the help.”

I smile.

“And,” she adds, lifting her brow, “I have a wedding to plan.”