Bossing the Cowboy (Circle B Ranch #4) - Kennedy Fox Page 0,29
around here. Something small and on the ranch with lots of pretty flowers. Then a reception in one of the storage barns.”
“There’s no such thing as a small Bishop wedding,” I taunt.
Maize grabs one of my mini muffins and smirks. “That’s for sure.”
For the past eight years, I’ve busted my ass juggling work and school, and today, it’s finally going to pay off. I’ve been dreaming about this moment since my first day of college. There were times when I was overwhelmed with finals and work and wasn’t sure I’d make it. But my graduation day is finally here.
The ceremony is long, and since it’s May, it’s hot and humid. But I don’t care because all the sacrifices I’ve made finally feel worth it. My parents have always encouraged me, and knowing how proud they are made me an emotional wreck. My grandparents and brother also watched me walk the stage, and when it’s finally over, they swarm me with hugs.
Not everyone in the family could attend because of work obligations, so Mom and Dad have a big party planned for tomorrow. Though I would’ve been happy with a small family dinner, they insisted.
The day of the graduation party is a beautiful Saturday and seeing everyone makes me so happy. “Elle, darlin’.” Grandma Bishop finds me at the dessert table Maize is responsible for. “You look stunnin’.”
“Well, thank you, Grandma.” I smile, giving her a big hug. “Probably the last time I’ll look presentable for a while.”
“Why’s that?” Rowan walks up with baby Rory in her arms. He’s only a month old and the sweetest boy I’ve ever seen.
I reach out and steal him, placing him close to my chest.
“Because I’ll be studying for the state board exam nonstop. I can’t practice until I pass,” I explain, pressing little kisses to Rory’s chubby cheek.
“I thought you took that exam a couple of months ago?” Rowan asks.
“That was the national licensing exam. Have to take that before graduation, then after you take the boards. So until I get my official license to practice, I can’t do anything at the clinic.”
“Oh wow. When do you take it?” she asks.
“I can take it at any time, but I’m hoping next month I’ll be ready so I can apply for a job or figure out my next steps.”
“Not workin’ with Dr. VetDreamy?” Rowan smirks, and I give her a look since Grandma’s close.
I shrug, handing Rory back to her. “Honestly, I don’t know. He let me stay after my initial internship since I was able to get clinical credits for my residency, but I’m not sure if he wants another doctor at his practice.”
I’ve been too chickenshit to ask, and he hasn’t brought it up. He’s been strictly professional. Between his secret phone calls and hiding in his office, I talk to Beverly and Trina more. A part of me hasn’t wanted to ask about my future at the office because I’m too afraid of the answer. If he does want me to stay, he hasn’t shared that with me.
“Hey y’all,” Maize greets with a big grin. “Congratulations, Elle!”
“Thanks, Maze.” She’s glowing, and it’s obvious why. She’s marrying Gavin next month, which means I’ll be studying and on bridesmaid's duty. But at this point in my life, I’m used to always having my plate overfull.
“And where’s your fiancé?”
“Being rowdy with the boys outside, of course. You’d think I wouldn’t have to deal with him being into all that shit since he’s older, but he gives in to the peer pressure.” She grunts, and the three of us laugh.
“Oh honey, it doesn’t matter how old they get. They never, ever calm down,” Grandma explains. “I still haveta whip your dad and uncles into shape from time to time. If it wasn’t for their wives, it’d be a full-time job.”
I chuckle because she’s right. My dad was the tamer, more serious one of the bunch, but I still heard stories of his wild summers working on the ranch when he wasn’t in school.
“Another confirmation that being single is the only way to be. I’ll have five dogs to keep me company,” I say, then add, “and maybe a few cats and horses too.”
“You will not,” Grandma blurts out. “If my boys found partners to put up with their antics, there’s no reason you can’t.”
“Now, Grandma, why in the world would I want to put up with a man?” I tease, playfully crossing my arms.
“To give her more great-grandbabies, of course.” Maize snickers.