I knew from the moment we got to this godforsaken ranch that the boss’s son would be giving us trouble. He’s smaller than the rest of us ranch hands and therefore likes to challenge us. Twice since we got here, he’s come up to both you and me and has tried to rile us up. I told you the very first night to steer clear of him. I guess that didn’t do much good, ‘cause now Curley has got you backed up against one of the splintered walls of the bunkhouse.

“Come on, you little bitch,” Curley hisses in your face. He jabs his fingers into your chest. “Let’s fight. You too scared?”

“Curley,” I growl. “Get off’a them.” My fists are clenching at my sides. I’m waiting to see if he actually tries something before I rush in to beat his ass.