1. Lyla
1 As I observed the eagle gliding through the sky, my intuition told me that Preston was up to something. Asher always had his son under the watchful eye of the majestic bird. I scanned the area for the mischievous seven-year-old with his blond hair, knowing he was likely causing trouble. Asher noticed the bird too and muttered a curse under his breath. "He's supposed to be up at the house with Maggie, doing his school work." "Do you think he gave her the slip again?" I inquired. Asher nodded and motioned for silence by placing a finger on his lips. He didn't need to worry about me; I wouldn't utter a word. Slowly, he made his way towards the backside of the barn, where the eagle continued its circling flight. I chuckled to myself and resumed brushing one of the horses that were being sold that day. I felt a pang of sadness knowing Diamond, my favorite horse, was leaving. I would surely miss him. I overheard Asher startle the kid, and I wished I had seen Preston's reaction to being caught. It would have been amusing. But the amusement quickly faded as Preston began shouting back at his father, refusing to do his homework. Preston was a sweet child, but once he set his mind on something, there was no changing it. I struggled to suppress a smile when he said something particularly sassy. Unfortunately, it didn't end well. The conversation turned to threats of taking away video games and horse riding privileges. When Asher returned, I avoided looking at him or commenting on what I had heard. It was tough for him to handle everything alone, especially since the boy's mother, Crystal, had left to pursue her dreams in New York City. It was a far cry from Winters Fall, Montana. Asher wanted to go after her, but he knew he had no place in the city. Both of them kept hoping she would return, but I didn't think she would. She had left everything behind, burdening Asher with a lot for a man in his late twenties. Despite his self-doubt, Asher was doing a great job, and Preston was a joy when he wasn't in one of his moods. "I hate always having to be the bad guy," Asher confessed. "You kind of have to be the bad guy," I reminded him. "I know, I just wish someone else could take on that role for once. I could be the fun parent." "If you want, I can take away his video games. You could use a break, just let me know," I offered. Asher smiled at me then, his handsome face transforming, his dark brown eyes twinkling. I worked with Asher so closely that sometimes I forgot how attractive he was. In that moment, he took my breath away. I quickly averted my gaze, afraid he would read my thoughts and leave me feeling embarrassed. I stumbled over my words, grateful for the work in front of me. I moved on to another horse, unable to bear the thought of losing Diamond just yet. "You know, dragging your feet won't change anything," Asher gently reminded me. He knew I wouldn't take it well. Diamond was the first horse I trained when I arrived here three years ago, though I hardly remembered anything except my love for horses. There was another memory I hadn't shared with anyone but Asher. A man had stood over me as I lay dying, urging me to fight for my people. I didn't fully understand what it meant or whether it was even real, but it felt real. The memory was vivid, and when I first came to the ranch and stayed in the barn, Diamond would nudge my foot to wake me up when I had a nightmare. And I had plenty of those in the beginning. I couldn't recall anything, but my dreams made me question everything. "I just don't understand why Diamond has to go. I need him. He's the only source of comfort I have," I admitted, though it wasn't easy. "I'm sorry, Lyla, but you know how it goes. We need to make room for more horses to be trained and prepared. That's why we're here, to generate revenue since cattle prices aren't enough. We tame and train the horses, getting them ready for their next riders. They're never really ours," Asher explained. He was the ranch's second-in-command, my boss, but he never raised his voice or made me feel inadequate. He trusted my judgment and allowed me to do my job, but he seemed unwavering on this matter. "Lyla!" Austin's voice boomed across the ranch, and I did my best not to let it affect me. I was trembling inside, even without laying eyes on him. When I was hired as a trainer, he told me he didn't trust me. I didn't think that had changed, even after three incident-free years here. Apparently, time wasn't enough to earn Austin's trust. Asher rolled his eyes and ran a hand through his wavy brown hair that fell just past his collar. He assured me everything would be fine. Easier said than done, especially considering he himself seemed on edge whenever Austin appeared. I wasn't the only one who felt a twinge of nervousness when the owner was around. I wanted to flee, but I knew Asher wouldn't let me. He was on my side for most things that happened on the ranch. I could trust him. However, that didn't mean he wouldn't betray me when it came to Austin. Not only was he the ranch owner and everyone's boss, he was also the alpha of the Dark Riders, a wolf-shifter clan. It made fighting against Austin impossible, leaving me to fend for myself. Asher urged me to stay calm and assured me it would be alright. I tried to reason with him, but Asher would never see Austin as I did, nor would anyone else on the ranch who had to endure his moods and whims. It was a challenging position to be in. I straightened my back and held my head high, determined to face whatever awaited me.Fear didn't consume me when it came to Austin, or at least that's what I told myself. The truth was, there were many reasons why he unnerved me, and they had little to do with his physical prowess. It wasn't his ability to tear out my throat that kept me on edge, but rather the power he held over my newfound life in Winter Fall. The workers here were my family, and being expelled from this place would be devastating. I relied on this job and the sense of belonging it provided. "Lyla! What the hell are you doing in here?" Austin's voice boomed, causing me to stumble over my words. My stutter, a reaction reserved solely for Austin's presence, intensified. It wasn't just his volume that made me flustered; it was the sight of him shirtless, his chiseled muscles rendering me speechless. I couldn't bring myself to look at Asher, too embarrassed by my reaction to Austin. My cheeks burned crimson, radiating heat even without touch. I had to avert my gaze, feeling Austin's eyes bore into me. "I'm getting the horses ready to go," I managed to stammer. "Where is Diamond?" Austin's pointed question made it clear that he was aware of the effect he had on me. He would occasionally drop by, claiming to check up on me, but I knew it was because he didn't trust me. No matter what he said, he never stopped viewing me as an enemy. "He's not ready yet," I lied smoothly. "His stomach is about to burst from all the treats you've given him today. You do this every time, Lyla. You have to let go of them. You have to let go of Diamond." I sighed, acknowledging the truth in his words, surprised by the fleeting softness in his tone before he reverted back to his usual business-like bluntness. "I know you care about him, but he has to go. I can't keep paying for his upkeep, and even if you tried to buy him, Lyla, you couldn't afford it. You have to let him go." I pretended as though I hadn't considered making that offer, but Austin knew me too well. I was going to propose exactly that, even if it meant working for free for a while. Some of the horses raised and trained here were worth millions. I could spend a lifetime working and still never repay their value. My income simply didn't stretch that far. "He'll be out there when he's ready." Austin seemed poised to say something more, and I braced myself, but instead, he agreed to my terms. "Don't take too long. The trailer leaves in an hour, and if I have to come back here and drag him into it, I'll be pissed." I assured him that I would have Diamond ready, and he stalked off, shirtless and with damp hair from his shower. I found myself thinking about him more than I should. Heat flushed my face again, but this time for an entirely different reason. I noticed Asher's gaze on me, and he merely shrugged, as if familiar with Austin's power over women. It was difficult to ignore the raw energy that emanated from him, drawing in countless women who he would eventually discard. I didn't want to become one of those girls, but damn if he didn't look good right now. This was one of those times. I had revealed too much, and I knew better. I was one of the few women who actually worked on the ranch, rather than visiting the guys. I had lived in the bunkhouse with them for a long time, and I had managed to avoid any trouble. It was all because I knew better than to get involved with any of them. I kept myself neutral. But with the boss shirtless, it was hard to focus on neutrality. We returned to work, and I reluctantly readied Diamond to leave. He would be missed, but he was going to have a better life. That's what I told myself as I fought back tears while leading him out. The last thing I needed was for Austin to witness my distress. He already knew I had a soft spot for Diamond; he didn't need to know the extent of my sorrow. As I stepped outside, the sun descended towards the horizon, and the sounds of the world rushed back to me. The barn had been soundproofed for the horses' sake, and emerging from it made everything seem so loud. Austin stood there, now fully dressed, thank goodness, and he took the reins from me. It was as if Diamond knew, resisting until I touched his head and assured him that everything would be alright. It felt like a lie. "He looks good, Lyla." "Thank you," I whispered, but he heard me. With his shifter senses, heightened due to powers inherited from his father, everyone knew Austin was superior in every way. And when his slate-blue eyes locked onto mine, I felt rooted to the spot, unable to move. I stood before him, speechless. Thankfully, Asher wasn't present to witness my complete loss of composure. I could only imagine the scathing remarks he would make. None of them would be kind, that much was certain. "I'll take it from here, Lyla, alright?" I nodded in agreement, desperately trying to hold back the tears threatening to spill over. I just had to will them away. Austin grinned, and for a brief moment, I caught a glimpse of the image that haunted my dreams, the figure standing over me, urging me to fight. Austin's words triggered that memory, and this time, I remembered a little more, though it remained a jumbled mess in my mind, lacking coherence. Austin was being kind to me, Diamond was gone...nothing made sense anymore.
2. Austin
2 The sight of Lyla's distress over her horse leaving brought back memories of a similar lesson my father once taught me many years ago. My own horse, Thunder, had been sacrificed for a greater purpose, and the pain of never seeing her again still lingered. I couldn't help but empathize with Lyla in that moment. I wanted to ease her sorrow, assure her that Diamond would be well cared for. It was more than what I had received. But her wistful expression didn't last long. She had mastered the art of hiding her vulnerabilities, a necessary skill when working and living among mostly men. However, her vulnerability called to something primal within me, something I tried to ignore. Lyla had been at Pullers Ranch for nearly three years. I had always seen her beauty, but lately, being around her only intensified my desire. "Why don't we grab a drink after work? You and Asher are almost done, right?" I suggested. "Yeah, but I have something to do afterwards," she replied. "Like what?" I asked, surprised that she wasn't jumping at the chance to go out with me. I had noticed the way she looked at me without my shirt on. There was definitely interest there, so what was holding her back? She simply shook her head and walked away. Being turned down like that stung a little. On my way out, I stopped Asher and asked him where his son was. He became defensive immediately, but I assured him that Preston hadn't caused any trouble today. I wanted to give the boy something to do, to keep him occupied. Asher seemed relieved and informed me that Preston was with Maggie, doing his homework. "Do you mind if I give the young man a job?" I asked. He didn't mind at all, granting me permission. Asher didn't realize how fortunate he was. He had a good son who had the potential to become something great, and he got to work with Lyla every day. I couldn't help feeling envious. It didn't make sense. After all, I was the boss. Back at the office, as I sifted through Pullers Ranch's paperwork, I was met with a disheartening sight. The business was bleeding money from every pore, and I had no clue how to stop it. It was difficult to determine the best course of action, but I had an idea that could potentially bring in the revenue most ranches in town desperately needed. "I don't like the way you're looking right now," Asher said, observing me from the doorway. He explained that I seemed too serious. "When you get serious, Austin, it means something's gone wrong and it's probably not good." I nodded, because he was right. I was preoccupied with something I didn't want to confront. I felt nervous because my father had kept these ranches running his whole life, just like his father before him. I didn't want to be the one to ruin our family legacy. I had to keep it going, make it even better, leave my mark. But with the current revenue, it felt like I was spinning my wheels and going nowhere. What would happen if we continued on this path and lost everything? I didn't want to entertain that thought, but it was the reality I faced. Either figure it out or fail. "Have you seen the financial records for this place?" I asked casually. When our gazes locked, he knew exactly what I meant, and the conversation became easier. "Yeah, I've seen them, but that doesn't mean you can't turn things around. I've seen you do it before," he reassured me. I smiled. I had managed to salvage a few ranches that I thought were doomed when my father first passed away. I could do it again. "So, what's the plan?" Asher inquired. "How did you know I had one?" Asher shrugged. "You always have a plan, so you'll have to fill me in on this one. I want this ranch to stay open." I scoffed. "That's because you want to spend time with Lyla." I had noticed how he looked at her, how every man on the ranch seemed captivated by her. But that wouldn't change anything. The more time I spent with her, the more I realized there was a reason she consumed my thoughts. And it seemed Asher was just as infatuated with her. Who could blame him? "It has nothing to do with her," he replied. "No? It's funny how often you're here, especially knowing that I need you on other ranches too. This one isn't the only one struggling. You're aware of that, right?" Asher didn't turn red like I expected. He simply concealed it better. I was certain he noticed the blonde-haired, green-eyed woman who occupied my mind. It wasn't just her perfect body, her enticing curves, or her lips that evoked fantasies. It was her smile, her wit, the way she responded innocently to a little flirtation. What I admired about Lyla was her lack of baggage. She didn't remember much from before she started working at the ranch. She wasn't burdened by the past like most people. It was refreshing, and it made me a tad envious. There were many things I wished I could forget. "I'm helping prepare the animals for sale. You saw for yourself how much this ranch needs that money," Asher explained. I agreed, but we both knew there was more to it than that. It was interesting how defensive he became, worried that I would take him away from Lyla. I had already decided to spend the week at this ranch.Pullin’s Ranch was no different from the other ranches I oversaw, except for one crucial detail: Lyla. She was the game-changer, the reason why I made my decision. "I'll be here to assist you," I assured Asher, but his expression betrayed his disappointment. There was no point in discussing it further; he didn't want me around. Did he suspect that I had already staked my claim on Lyla in my mind? She would be mine, at least until I grew tired of her. Women lost their allure quickly, and I couldn't imagine Lyla being any different, even though something about her felt unique. I just couldn't put my finger on why. "Good, it's been a while since we worked together," Asher said, but there was something he wasn't revealing. I sensed it but chose not to pry. We continued talking, and only when I excused myself did Asher leave to attend to other matters. "Hello, this is Austin," I answered the call. "Austin, the alpha of the Dark Riders?" a voice inquired. It took a moment for the words to register, and instantly, I went on the defensive. I didn't recognize the caller, but they seemed to possess crucial knowledge about me. While it wasn't uncommon for people to know I was a shifter, hearing it from a stranger caught me off guard. "Yeah, who's asking?" I replied curtly. This conversation wasn't starting off well in my book. "My name is Orion. I'm looking for a job and was told you might have an opening." I disliked dealing with such matters over the phone. I despised phones altogether. I preferred face-to-face conversations, where I could look a person in the eye. This arrangement wouldn't work for me, especially if Orion wanted to work on one of the ranches. I needed to assess his trustworthiness, so I invited him to come in for a talk. Hiring people wasn't typically my responsibility; that fell to Asher, who possessed more patience than I did. Logically, I should have sent Orion away, but an inexplicable feeling compelled me to meet him in person. "I can be there in about an hour. I have experience and knowledge in running a ranch. I arrived by train yesterday morning..." "Fine," I interrupted him before he could launch into a lengthy life story, and promptly hung up. He needed to arrive here, let me look into his eyes, and then we could proceed. My mind was preoccupied, but we did require additional hands. Finding competent workers was always challenging. I was never too occupied to consider the possibility of hiring someone who could provide years of valuable service. Orion had the potential to do just that and more. * * * I remained in the office, surrounded by paperwork, when I heard my name called from the doorway about thirty minutes later. Looking up, I quickly confirmed that the man before me matched his name. With jet-black hair, eyes, and tanned, bronze skin, he exuded a dark aura, much like myself. For some reason, though, I felt at ease in Orion's presence. My instincts told me he would be a valuable addition, so our interview was brief. I hired him as one of the ranch hands. Asher wasn't thrilled to see the new recruit, especially since he had no say in the hiring process. But I paid no mind to his displeasure. Asher always claimed we needed more hands around, so when I instructed him to show Orion the ropes, he wasn't pleased. I couldn't discern if his annoyance stemmed from being given an order or from being pulled away from assisting Lyla. "Don't worry, Asher, I'll ensure Lyla receives all the help she needs." That earned me a scowl, and inwardly, I relished in it. He was so infuriated with me at this point that steam might as well have been billowing from his ears. I half-expected him to take a swing at me. I would easily overpower him, but it might earn him a modicum of respect from me. Violence made far more sense to me than his incessant need to talk through everything. Asher departed with Orion, and I rode out to join Lyla in fixing a fence. A horse had become entangled in loose barbed wire, but she had managed to free it by the time I arrived. She was still attempting to calm the agitated animal, her head pressed against its own. I paused, observing the scene before me. Lyla possessed an extraordinary bond with animals, unlike anything I had ever witnessed before, even among my own people who could summon animals at will. Whatever powers she held, they surpassed those of an ordinary shifter. Lyla had no recollection of her past, which added an air of mystery to her, but also concealed her true potential and abilities. I couldn't help but wonder, as I had before, just how much Lyla was capable of. It felt like she possessed far more than any of us gave her credit for. "I hope I'm not interrupting," I said, as the horse let out a soft neigh. I reached out, rubbing its head where Lyla had been connected just moments ago. I informed her that Asher had left and I would assist her for a while. Surprise flickered across her features, likely due to my position at the ranch, but I reassured her that I was capable of helping with anything she needed. I had done it all on my own countless times before. Just because I owned these ranches didn't mean they were handed to me in their current state. I had fought tooth and nail to expand them. The success of our horse breeding program was a testament to my efforts. "I don't require much assistance, just need to secure some more wire," Lyla replied, initially apprehensive but gradually warming up to me. Every second spent with her felt like a wasted opportunity if I wasn't consumed by her. My inner wolf yearned to claim her, a sensation I had never experienced before. Regrettably, she wasn't meant for me.
3. Asher
3 Asher had gone above and beyond to gather every member of the Dark Rider pack for a meeting called by Austin. The purpose of the meeting was still a mystery to him, but he suspected it had something to do with the financial difficulties some of the ranches were facing. While money may not have been a concern for the pack as a whole, it was their ticket into the community. Winter Fall was mostly inhabited by humans, and if the ranches failed, their cover would be compromised. Restoring the financial stability of the ranches was crucial and needed to happen swiftly. Austin, the alpha of the Dark Riders, handled everything with his usual calm demeanor. Asher couldn't help but feel a tinge of jealousy towards him. It wasn't just the fact that Austin seemed unfazed by any problem that came his way, but also his unwavering self-assurance. He approached every challenge as if it were solvable, and time and again, he had proven himself right. Whether it was due to inherited traits or sheer determination, Austin was meant to be an alpha. As the meeting progressed, Lyla entered the room, drawing Asher's attention. He had developed strong feelings for her over the past three years, even though being together seemed impossible. It pained him to think about it. Lyla stood beside Asher, finding comfort in his presence. She had confided in him, expressing how safe she felt with him. Asher's protective instincts only grew stronger with her words. His attraction to her had been there from the moment she arrived at the ranch. Her reserved nature and lack of interest in anyone else made her unattainable, which only fueled Asher's desire for her. Why did they always want what they couldn't have? And why did he constantly doubt his own worth? "Alright, everyone, settle down! We have a lot to discuss, and I know you'd rather be doing something else. Believe me, I feel the same way," Austin addressed the crowd, commanding their attention. "But we need to address the financial issues plaguing our ranches. First and foremost, we have to find ways to cut costs and make up for the loss in profits." The crowd murmured in agreement, a reminder that they were all in this together. Rodney, known for his questioning nature, spoke up. "So, what's the plan, Austin? How do we fix this?" Austin took Rodney's inquiry in stride, acknowledging his concerns. He had a way of making everyone feel heard. "I'll tell you what we're going to do, Rodney. We're going to start offering riding lessons," Austin declared. Groans filled the room at the suggestion. Asher, however, saw the potential in the idea. Running some numbers in his head, he realized how much of an impact it could have on revenue. Austin was at it again, finding solutions to every problem. Not everyone shared Asher's optimism. Many complained about being overworked and unable to take on additional responsibilities. It was true that the ranches were understaffed, and the lack of horses contributed to the decline in revenue. To make the ranches profitable, they needed horses filling the stalls. Adding a new revenue stream could be the key to pulling them out of the darkness they had been in for the past couple of years. The more Asher thought about it, the more he realized what a brilliant plan it was. He couldn't fathom why others couldn't see the bigger picture. Austin remained composed, as always. Asher marveled at his ability to remain calm in the face of adversity. People were shouting about how riding lessons would ruin their ranches, failing to consider the potential financial gain. Asher was ready to step in and silence them, reminding them of their alpha's authority. But before he could do anything, Austin took charge. "Stand down, Asher. I understand that people are worried about their livelihoods. I'm worried too. That's precisely why we have to do this. We can't keep doing things the same way. We need to move forward, and offering riding lessons is the way forward. The cattle prices are abysmal, and the breeding isn't going well either. The horses brought in some revenue, but it's not enough. We need more.""We require this, unless someone possesses an alternative notion that can aid us." No one offered any solutions, as they rarely did. "Who will conduct these riding lessons? Are we expected to sacrifice our valuable time from our true work to escort pampered city dwellers around? None of us desire them trampling about on our ranch!" "My ranch." Austin's smile sent a chill down my spine. He tolerated more insolence than most alphas, I presumed, but even Austin had his limits. He would have his way, and there was no recourse. It belonged to him, and it was our path forward. "If you don't already have someone at the ranch who can provide the lessons, you'll need to hire someone. I'll give you two weeks, and then I'll be advertising across all the ranches. Just because I called this meeting seeking opinions and input doesn't mean I'll change my mind. This is the path forward. It's my family's legacy that I must carry on, and I won't let it crumble. Everyone will get on board or find something else to occupy their time. And I promise you, it won't be as fulfilling." He said everything with a smile, but, as always, there was a hint of darkness in his eyes. I could only imagine what devious thoughts ran through his mind. Austin possessed a certain creativity in that regard. Convincing people that the only way to progress was to embrace something different would prove to be quite challenging. People clung to familiarity. Austin dismissed the meeting and approached me. "Do you think they'll follow?" "Yes, they'll follow. I've told you before that most of your people would follow you to the ends of the earth, Austin. You're a remarkable leader, and they recognize it." "You said most. Should I be concerned?" I shrugged. "Can we ever truly be certain about anything?" "Don't toy with me, Asher, I want the truth. Do you believe they'll follow?" I nodded. "Do you think it's a sound idea?" "Yes, it's a sound idea. You might just save all of us yet." He grinned, and that was why I would always stand by his side. At the core, he simply wanted to improve the lives of his people, and there was an inherent innocence in that. If I looked past his occasional brooding, I'd see a good man who aspired to uplift his people. Many failed to recognize that, but I had known Austin long enough to discern the truth. "I wish you could convey that to everyone else," Austin said. "If I thought they'd actually listen, I would. People are fickle and will assume I'm merely speaking on your behalf." "You're always right, Asher," Austin said before being summoned away to attend to urgent matters. "Do you genuinely believe it's a wise choice?" Lyla asked, startling me into remembering she stood beside me. She had been unusually quiet, and Lyla was never one to be silent. I confirmed my agreement, and she sought an explanation. "Why?" It wasn't a casual inquiry; Lyla genuinely desired to understand. "We require additional revenue that horses and cattle alone cannot generate." "Even after selling Diamond, the ranch is still struggling?" Lyla appeared horrified. "I had no idea the ranch faced such dire circumstances. It seems like there's enough business. Is something else amiss?" I remained silent, and she likely interpreted it as a lack of trust. That wasn't the case at all. A significant portion of the ranch's revenue went to the pack, and there had been recent issues. She wasn't a part of the Night Riders, but I trusted her. I had worked alongside Lyla long enough to know she was not someone we needed to worry about. In fact, I would need Lyla now more than ever. "Do you think you could teach me how to ride?" She gave me a peculiar look, uncertain if I was joking. "You know how to ride; I've seen you do it countless times. What is it that you need to learn?" "I don't know how to teach someone else how to ride." The ranch couldn't afford to hire someone, especially after Austin unexpectedly brought in Orion and offered him a substantial salary. I hoped Lyla could utilize the patience she demonstrated with the other hands and the animals to teach me how to be the same way. I couldn't afford to lose her expertise on Pullers Ranch. "Why does it concern you so much?" "I'm not concerned; I simply want to do a commendable job." She shook her head. "You know you're not a very adept liar, right?" I believed I was passable, but with her, I didn't want to lie because I didn't want to disappoint her. She was capable, beautiful, and never backed down from a challenge. It inspired me to become a better man. "It just has to work out. Our pack needs this, and I need your assistance. Can I rely on you?" Lyla agreed, and I was prepared to place all my faith in her. I had already entrusted my love to her delicate hands. I wished circumstances were different, and she wasn't so vulnerable. Her memory loss complicated moving forward. I didn't want to take advantage of her, so I had to wait.
4. Levi
4 Levi felt the bus inching along at a snail's pace as he neared his destination. The weight of returning home with his dreams shattered and his family gone loomed over him like a dark cloud. He dreaded the confrontation that awaited him, unsure of who remained in this small town where horses and cows outnumbered people. Nothing had changed since he left. Winter Fall was still a podunk town with only two stoplights and a few thousand residents. Leaving it behind was all Levi ever wanted, yearning to make a name for himself elsewhere. His heart longed to be a singer, but it seemed fate had different plans. He had believed in his talent, even securing a manager who promised him fame and fortune. But that promise turned out to be empty, a cruel joke that left Levi penniless. Returning home with only a meager sum in his pocket felt like the ultimate failure. As the bus halted near Dotty's, a gas station a couple of blocks away, Levi gathered his belongings - a backpack and a duffel bag from the overhead compartment. Why did it feel like the end of the world? Now that he was back, Levi wondered if he would ever escape again. He still held onto the dream of becoming a star; it wasn't his failure to break through but rather the lack of proper representation. Spending his life trapped in this town was never part of his plan. Stepping onto the pavement, a surge of energy coursed through Levi's veins. The town seemed to possess an indescribable magic, empowering him and filling him with strength. It was a relief to feel that familiar sensation, fearing that his memories of it were too good to be true. Embracing this newfound energy, Levi propelled himself forward. He needed to figure out his next move, and Dotty's was where it all began. Perhaps she could save him once more, find someone willing to give him a chance. He would wait for another talent scout to notice him, with the right manager by his side, he could find his way back to where he once was. The thought of being stuck in this town indefinitely was unbearable; nothing would keep him here for long. However, Levi soon realized that Dotty couldn't make everything better. She no longer owned the bar. Gathering his composure, he resolved to find out who was in charge now. Perhaps this new owner would be just as receptive to his plea as Dotty had been. Live music still played, indicating they still needed singers. It would be fine, Levi reassured himself, determined not to sink into despair. The bartender and the man who appeared to be the manager or owner engaged in conversation. They were strangers to Levi, but he knew he had to approach the bald man with the unlit cigar in his mouth. Suppressing his initial disdain, Levi walked up to him, waiting for a natural pause in their discussion. "Hi, I'm Levi. Are you the owner?" he asked, his voice tinged with hope. The man scrutinized Levi from head to toe, as if unsure if he was even worth speaking to. A surge of anger welled up within Levi, though he knew it served him no purpose to get upset. There was something about this man that rubbed him the wrong way. Why couldn't Dotty be here? She would understand his worth. Levi felt diminished, practically begging this man for an opportunity. "Yeah, I'm Bobby," the man replied, his tone lacking warmth. Levi couldn't help but ask, "What happened to Dotty?" "She died," Bobby responded, his words dripping with a twisted amusement that made Levi grit his teeth. The bartender had wandered off, and Levi wondered what he truly thought of his boss. "Do you think you have what it takes? What do you do, sing?" Bobby inquired, his skepticism palpable. Levi reminded himself that his feelings towards this man were inconsequential. He needed more than just a paycheck; he needed to create, to be more than a small-town guy trapped in Winter Fall.I couldn't bear the thought of staying stagnant in this forgotten place for the rest of my days. Deep within me, I knew that my destiny held something grander. Perhaps it was merely a glimmer of hope, but it was a hope I refused to bury. "Yes, sir, I do. I play the guitar too. I used to perform here many years ago," I responded, my voice tinged with nostalgia. "Well, let's see what you've got," he challenged. "Pardon me?" I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Did he really want me to audition for a gig like this? It was a blow to my ego. "Indeed. You stroll in off the streets, making all these claims. I don't know you, and I bet Jimmy doesn't either. If you're as good as you say, play me a tune that'll make me want to give you a chance. This place is the hottest spot in town, and I can't just let anyone on stage. You have to prove yourself like everyone else. Think of me as your king. If you don't entertain me, you won't be playing. Show me your talent, not just empty arrogance," he explained, his words stinging my pride. I nodded, biting back any foolish retorts. Setting down my belongings, I retrieved my guitar and made my way towards the stage. It wasn't my first time, but I certainly hadn't expected to entertain a king. Determined to impress the recruiter and reclaim control over my life, I resolved to give it my all. Winter Fall had come to symbolize all the hardships that had befallen me. I just needed some money, a manager, and a way out of this town. As I played, my heart pounding, I anticipated his dismissal. But to my surprise, he didn't tell me to leave. Instead, he commended my talent and offered me a Friday spot. It was music to my ears, even though embarrassment and a sense of inadequacy lingered. I would make the most of this opportunity. I was destined for stardom, and this was just the first step in the right direction. The only downside was that I had to handle all the promotion myself. Another blow, but it was still a victory, and damn it, I desperately needed one. * * * After securing temporary accommodations at a local bed and breakfast, I had a couple of days before my set. The more people I could entice to come, the better. If they brought in the flyers I distributed, I'd receive a portion of the door price. It was the incentive I needed to hit the pavement and start promoting. I didn't mind selling myself if it meant more money and a step closer to escaping this place. I ventured into the heart of town, encountering a few people at the grocery store, a handful more at the post office, and a bustling crowd at the tracker supply store. It seemed half the town flocked there to purchase seeds, feed, grass, and dirt. Witnessing the hustle and bustle, inspiration ignited within me. Handing out flyers, I nearly collided with a woman rounding the corner. She stood considerably shorter than me, her long blonde hair cascading down her back. Adorned in tight, frayed jeans and a shirt branded with a local ranch's logo, she exuded a magnetic allure. I couldn't help but wonder who had the privilege of working with her – whether I should pity them or envy them. "What are you giving away?" she inquired. I shrugged. "Not much. I have a show coming up on Friday, and I'm trying to drum up some interest." A smile graced her lips, melting my heart. "Are you any good?" she asked, her captivating green eyes locked onto mine. I almost divulged that I had just returned from Nashville, having failed to make it big. But I wasn't quite ready to bare my soul so candidly. "Yeah, you should come by and see for yourself." She averted her gaze. "Would you even notice if I showed up?" "I would," I assured her, taking a step closer. "Sorry, I've got to rush. My boss is waiting, and he's quite the character when he's angry. I'll be there this Friday, eager to hear your performance." I believed her, though I couldn't explain why. "What's your name?" I called after her as she departed. "Lyla." That was a name I wouldn't forget. "I'll be seeing you, Lyla." She smiled and vanished. I still clutched a thick stack of flyers, uncertain if I had given her one. It didn't matter; as long as she showed up, I'd be content.
5. Lyla
5 Friday arrived with unexpected haste, filling me with a sense of anticipation. Levi, the enigmatic musician, was set to perform at Dotty's, and I was genuinely intrigued about his musical prowess. Unlike most men in this town, Levi possessed a sweetness and artistic sensibility that captivated me. It felt as though our meeting was destined, as if there was something remarkable about him. While I couldn't vouch for his talent, I had built up an image of him in my mind, hoping he would live up to my expectations. Accompanied by Jessica, a fellow worker at the Pullers Ranch and one of the few female comrades I had, I embarked on this musical adventure. Our shared experiences of working under intimidating bosses and navigating a world seemingly designed for men forged a strong bond between us. I refrained from confessing my instant crush on Levi, merely mentioning a new singer who had recently returned from Nashville. Jessica agreed to join me, and we planned to pick up Tara, another girl from work, for a much-needed girls' night out. Jessica informed me that there would be a sizable crowd at Levi's performance tonight. Apparently, he had enjoyed a period of fame a few years back. She inquired about my knowledge of Levi, to which I confessed my ignorance. Tara, having previously seen Levi at Dotty's, couldn't help but gush about him, much to my annoyance. I yearned for a unique connection, an exclusive bond with Levi. The last thing I desired was for every woman in town to feel the same way about him. Upon arriving at Dotty's, I observed an unusually large number of girls. Many were enthusiastically discussing their love for Levi. While I couldn't claim to be in love, there was certainly a strong attraction. I sensed that this night would be far different from what I had envisioned. Doubt began to creep in, making me question my decision to come. It all seemed rather foolish now. "Jessica, have you ever seen the place so packed before?" I asked my friend incredulously. The tiny bar was bursting at the seams with people. Finding a seat seemed impossible. Granted, it was Friday night, the busiest time of the week, but this was beyond anything I had imagined. Could it be because of Levi? He must have been here before my arrival. I would have remembered someone like him. He stood out from the crowd of mundane men I encountered daily. "No, I don't recall it ever being this crowded," Jessica replied, glancing at Tara. "Who is this guy again?" Tara simply smiled and nodded towards the stage. "You're about to find out why everyone is here. Trust me, he's something else. His voice will make you fall in love the first time you hear it. I envy you." Her eyes shimmered with admiration. As the first strums of the guitar resonated through the air, I felt a shiver run down my spine. When Levi began to sing, my heart skipped a beat. There was an undeniable allure in the way he delivered the lyrics, his voice deep and resonant. It all melded together, creating an intoxicating experience. I could see why he had captured the hearts of the townsfolk. Levi's performance made him even more attractive, enhancing his innate charm. I knew there was something special about him, something that had passed between us when our eyes met. I wanted him to notice that I noticed. The crowd was so vast that I feared I would fade into obscurity. With so many women around, it seemed unlikely that he would even register my presence. I wasn't sure what I had expected, but I had a sinking feeling that it wouldn't be fulfilled. However, my worries were unfounded. Halfway through the second song, Levi's gaze locked with mine, and he bestowed upon me a radiant smile. Though other girls nearby called out, convinced he was looking at them, I knew better. Our eyes connected, and a surge of desire coursed through me. It felt as if he were singing directly to me. Once his set concluded, a wave of people swarmed the stage, eager to get closer to Levi. I contemplated whether I should go and tell him how much I admired his performance, but the thought of being one among many in a sea of faces deterred me. However, considering he had personally invited me, I felt compelled to at least say hello. Engrossed in their discussion about the concert's greatness, Jessica and Tara remained oblivious as I quietly slipped away towards the back, hoping to find my way to Levi. Standing outside his dressing room, someone thanked everyone and ushered them out.As soon as there was a sliver of space, I mustered up the courage to ask if I could see Levi. His initial response mirrored what he had likely told everyone else, but then he surprised me by asking for my name. When I revealed it, he informed me that only I had permission to see him, excluding all others. In that moment, I felt an indescribable sense of elation. It may have been irrational to fight against other women for a man I had just met, but the desire to be with Levi overwhelmed any logic. The fact that he singled me out made me feel special. Amongst all those other stunning girls, he chose me. How could I not revel in that? With a hint of apprehension, I knocked on the door, uncertain of what awaited me inside. Doubts crept into my mind, making me question my presence there. What was I doing? The door swung open, revealing Levi standing before me, a broad smile stretching across his face. "Lyla, I'm thrilled you decided to come. I wasn't sure if you would." I shook my head, a grin playing on my lips. "I would have been crazy to miss it." "What do you mean?" he inquired. I chuckled, recalling the scene outside. "I saw all your groupies vying for your attention. Why aren't you letting them in, Levi?" He dismissed my question, clearly uninterested in discussing his admirers. It seemed hard to believe that most men wouldn't relish such attention. Why was Levi different? I didn't have concrete evidence, but it felt that way. "Why don't we escape this place and grab a drink? We can talk about what we have in store for each other," he proposed. I was at a loss for words. Was he being serious? "Come on, Lyla, it's just one drink." A small voice inside me warned against placing trust in this man. He seemed too perfect, too good to be true. I feared that Levi would turn out to be like all the other men in my life who had proven too good to be true. "Alright, Levi, how do we slip away without your fans mobbing us?" I asked, trying to sound composed. A smile played on his lips. "Let's exit through the back, so it's just the two of us." It felt like an adventure, a clandestine act we weren't supposed to partake in. Since going to a bar was not an option due to the crowd, we settled for wine from the lone gas station in town and found solace at the abandoned fairgrounds. I mentioned that I couldn't stay out too late, and he promised to have me home before midnight. * * * As I entered the bunkhouse, I noticed someone waiting for me in the darkness. I couldn't discern their identity, but their voice gave them away immediately. "You were out late tonight, Lyla," Asher remarked. Startled, I placed a hand over my heart. "Asher! You scared the life out of me!" He scoffed. "You startle too easily. Why are you coming in so late?" "I didn't realize I had a curfew like a child. As long as I wake up at six o'clock, tend to the horses, and ensure the cattle are taken care of, does it matter when I come in or what I do when I'm away from here?" I retorted, feeling defensive, a state I rarely found myself in. Asher had never questioned me like this before. Despite his unwavering support and assistance, he had no right to dictate my actions and choices. But then, he said something that made me regret my confrontational response. "I was worried about you, Lyla. It's unlike you to come back at such a late hour, and I started to fear that something had gone wrong. I'm relieved that wasn't the case." "Are you trying to make me feel guilty?" I asked, genuinely curious. He shook his head. "No, you just seem a bit on edge. You should get some rest; we have a long day ahead of us." "Okay," I conceded. I didn't want to argue, especially when it seemed like an unfair fight from the start. My mind was swirling, partly due to the wine and the company I had enjoyed. Levi was a breath of fresh air, and perhaps I didn't want Asher to see the emotions written on my face. I felt invigorated, and it seemed as if Asher was trying to make me feel guilty for having a life outside of our shared responsibilities. And why did I feel a twinge of guilt? What was there to feel guilty about? I was simply having fun. I was single and it felt good to be around someone who wasn't a coworker. One of my personal rules was to avoid getting involved with anyone from work, leaving me with limited options. Perhaps Levi was the man I had been searching for. There was an undeniable charm about him, an inexplicable magnetism pulling me closer. There was something undeniably different, and I was eager to discover what set Levi apart from the rest.
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