in padded boxes into the tent. She could tell they were related because they had the same burning gaze and broad shoulders.
“And over there is our warm food and beverage center. If you need anything, you let me know.” He pointed to another tent that had a space heater burning and one side left open. The table inside was covered with insulated slow cookers and coffee pots. “Try the cocoa—Mom’s a genius.” He winked and continued leading her along by the hand. She should have pulled away, but the gesture was innocent, like a kid wanting to show off his latest finger painting on the fridge. Only this setup was way more impressive than some color smears.
A green John Deere lumbered by with panels skewered by the hay mover.
Caleb caught her watching. “Those are just in case. We don’t like to be caught short.”
Faith nodded. “I can see that. I have to admit I’m impressed with your operation.” She felt like they’d set her up for success, which was a really nice feeling. How would it be to grow up in a family like this—one that worked together? An ache opened up inside of her, and she rubbed her chest, hoping to get rid of it.
“We’re ready if you are,” called Drake as he waved his hat over his head to get their attention.
Faith grinned. That kid had a spark inside of him that made her grin—like the little brother she never had. “Let me load up my vest and we’ll be ready.” She headed to the heated tent and, once inside, unzipped her coat. Underneath, she wore a vest with 50 tabs—like pencil holders—where she could keep the needles close to her body and therefore warm. Working in the cold was a challenge but nothing she wasn’t up for. Hopefully, being close to the animals would help keep her fingers warm, because she had to take off her gloves to do the work.
When she was stocked up, she headed to the chutes.
Caleb nodded around the small circle as he made introductions. “You met Dad.”
The man was distinguished, with gray hair cut close and a full beard. His eyes twinkled like vaccinating was his favorite thing to do in the world. He shook her hand, and she felt seen and appreciated all at once.
“And Jack. I told you about him on the phone.”
He’d mentioned he had a twin in passing, and she’d stopped him to gather more info. Her interest in genetics wouldn’t let it slide.
She looked back and forth between the two, noting that they had nearly the same face and builds but different shades of blond hair. While Caleb seemed to be in charge for the day, she got the feeling that it was only because Jack let him. The two had a definite connection, having whole conversations with a look.
“And that’s Forest, Pax, and you’ve met Drake.”
She’d already guessed who most of them were by gathering information as he dropped it during conversations. Saying things like, I guess Drake can rig something up, or Pax is working the forge, gotta go. Forest had a twinkle of mischief in his eye, and Pax had a keen look to his eye, like he knew how things worked.
Dang, this ranch grew some handsome men. “No sisters?” she asked. She’d hoped to find another woman out here, for the sake of friendship and solidarity—the Nichollas men were a bit much with all their cowboy swaggers, flannel shirts, and leather gloves.
“Not a one.” Mr. Nichollas hung his head as if he’d failed in life. “And after these five hooligans, there was no convincing the wife to try again.”
“That’s because I’m smarter than you,” called a petite lady as she set another warming pot of food on the table and brushed off her gloves.
The men chuckled.
“I’m Anna, and don’t you let these boys tease you, ya hear? If they give you any trouble, you let me know.” She pointed a finger at her sons, who had the decency to drop their gazes and kick the snow.
Faith instantly adored Anna. Though she sounded tough, there was a whole tractor full of adoration for her boys in her eyes. “I think I can handle this crew,” Faith replied.
Anna grinned. “I don’t doubt it. Work ’em till they drop, dear.” She winked and headed back into the house.
Faith faced the wranglers and put her hands on her hips. “You heard the lady; let’s get to work.” They hopped to it so fast it left her blinking