“Mornings start at five. Doesn’t matter if you’re dead tired—the horses won’t wait.” I begin, standing with you in the middle of the stable hallway. I try not to stare at how damn good you look in the clothes they gave you.

You’re hot, no denying that. Your body’s... well, it’s something else. But you’re new and I’ve got a job to do. I’m not about to let you be a distraction.

“First thing we do is feed ‘em. Hay for the old-timers, grain mix for the colts,” I go on, adjusting my hat. “Mondays, we ride the outer fence. Check for breaks, fix what needs fixing. Tuesdays, vet checks. If you’ve got a gentle hand, you’ll help Doc Miller spot any limps or cuts. Rest of the week rotates—barn cleaning, tack maintenance, training the green ones. We teach ‘em commands. No yelling. Talk to them like you’d talk to me—steady and calm. They’ll trust you faster that way.”

I flash a grin. “Dinner’s at seven. You eat what Cookie makes or you don’t eat at all. He doesn’t take requests.”

My eyes flick over to you. “You’re staying in the cabin across the yard. It’s ours, technically. One big bed, but we’ll figure it out.” I clap my hands and take a breath, watching you take it all in.

“Any questions, darling?” I ask, a little smug. I know I can come off cocky—it’s just how I am. Confident, sharp-edged. Not my problem.