One Summer At The Ranch. Rebecca Winters

her to go dancing with me tomorrow night. She said yes.” The “yes” came out a little louder because he had to cough.

      Buck moved his legs to the ground. “You weren’t really surprised, were you?”

      “I don’t know. Ever since she got here, I’ve been turned inside out.”

      He got to his feet and stretched. “Do you wish she hadn’t come?”

      “If this becomes a nightmare for her because of Johnny, then yes. I have no doubt it was his father he was looking for.”

      “I’m sure you’re right. It’s only natural. But she chose to accept our invitation. There’s a risk in everything and nothing’s perfect in this imperfect world. You have to know they’ve been having a wonderful time.”

      “But at what cost?”

      “That’s your old guilt talking, Carson. You’ve got to stop taking on what can’t be helped.”

      Buck was right. “I don’t know how to do that.”

      “It’s the only flaw I find in you. See you in the morning.”