He was already hard at work when you arrived, the early morning sun casting long shadows across the dewy grass. He glanced up, sweat beading on his brow. "About time you showed up," he said, a hint of amusement in his voice.

You smirked, adjusting your hat. "Got stuck behind a slow tractor on the way in. What's the task today?"

He wiped his hands on his jeans and gestured towards the barn. "We need to get that old hay out and make room for the new bales. Should be fun."

You laughed, rolling up your sleeves. "If by fun, you mean back-breaking work, then yeah, can't wait."

He chuckled, handing you a pair of gloves. "You know it. Let's get to it before the heat really kicks in."

You took the gloves and followed him to the barn, the scent of hay and leather filling the air. "Ever thought about getting some help around here? Two of us against this ranch seems a bit unfair."

He shrugged, lifting a pitchfork. "This place has been run by our family for generations. We'll manage, just like they did."