Catching the Cowboy (Circle B Ranch #2) - Kennedy Fox Page 0,13

covered in a hair net when she’s in the kitchen. They’re chatting about something and laughing their asses off. When I clear my throat, she turns around, and I smirk. They have a special connection, especially considering Maize’s biological mother passed away soon after she was born, and he became a single dad overnight. John’s wife, Mila, raised Maize as her own, and most don’t know because they’re so close.

“Hey, kiddo,” Uncle John greets me just as Kenzie bursts through the back door being her usual loud self. She’s majoring in education and is home for the summer. As soon as she has her degree, she’ll be here permanently, following in Aunt Mila’s footsteps—like mother, like daughter. She opened a daycare years ago, and it eventually transitioned to a private school. While our town isn’t big at all, many of her students are from the surrounding areas. When more teachers are hired, they can accept more kids off the waitlist, so it’s a big deal for Kenzie to get her degree.

“I’m starving,” Kenzie says, glancing at her sister. “Did you make banana bread today?”

Maize gives her an incredulous look, narrowing her blue eyes. “Yes, for the guests.”

“I’m a guest all summer,” Kenzie quickly retorts.

When I chuckle, Kenzie just shrugs, then goes to Maize and wraps her arms around her and squeezes. “Come on, sis. You love me soooooo much. You can’t deny my love for your banana bread.”

Uncle John grins at his daughters the entire time. “She does have a point. It’s really good.”

“Fine!” Maize says, knowing she won’t win.

“Well, if you’re serving up slices, I want one too! And don’t be stingy,” I say.

“Same!” Uncle John adds.

Maize pretends to be annoyed, but I know how much she loves cooking and finds joy in us being obsessed with her food. Five minutes later, she’s walking into the main area carrying three small plates.

“It’s still warm,” I say excitedly, noticing steam rising from the top. Kenzie doesn’t wait before she’s stuffing her mouth full. I take a bite, and it’s so delicious that I quickly devour it regardless of the big breakfast I just ate. Maize happily snickers.

“So yummy and addicting. I think I need three more slices. How is this even legal?” I say, tempted to lick the crumbs from my plate. Kenzie and Uncle John nod in agreement.

“Y’all are just saying that.”

I roll my eyes because she knows better. “Not many people can cook as good as Grandma. So shut the hell up.”

That makes her laugh. “I mean, I don’t wanna low-key brag or anything, but I know it’s delicious.”

“Of course you do,” Uncle John says. “Good job!”

A guest walks up, and we move out of the way. I follow Maize and Kenzie onto the back porch, giving the lady privacy to speak with Uncle John.

“So, next weekend is your twenty-third birthday…” Kenzie glances at me. “We’re going out, right?”

“I’m sure I have to work.” I walk to the edge of the porch and look out at the rolling hills.

Maize interrupts my thoughts. “Nope. I’ll take care of Dad. We’re celebrating instead. I mean, when’s the last time the three of us got together?” She loops her arm in mine.

Kenzie comes to the other side. “It’s been a while, Rowan. Let’s drink and dance the night away.”

“I honestly forgot about it. I totally would if I can get off work.”

Immediately, Kenzie walks inside, causing Maize to shake her head. She turns to me. “You doin’ okay with everything?”

A ragged breath escapes me because I know she’s referring to the breakup. I texted her soon after it happened because while she’s my cousin, she’s also one of my best friends. Always has been. We’re close in age, only a year and a half apart, and grew up doing all sorts of stuff together.

“I’m making it.”

“You’re better off without that douche in the long run. Seriously, I don’t know what you saw in that polo-wearing pretty boy anyway. You need a real man. A cowboy. Someone who can fit in with the fam.”

I suck in a deep breath, chuckling at her description of Nick. She’s not wrong, though. “Sometimes love is blind.”

“That’s what they say,” she sing-songs. Soon, Kenzie is bursting through the back door.

“You’re off next weekend,” she states matter-of-factly.

“Really?” I’m actually kinda shocked because I’ve only been home for a week.

“Dad was cool with it. You only get to celebrate your birthday once a year,” she tells me. “I’m gonna get with Elle too and tell her to cancel