Page 20 of Wildest Dreams

“He was busy having a late breakfast,” Tripp says through a toothy grin and then groans when I am assuming Riggs kicks him in the shin.

“Took the day off, I only work three Saturdays a month now, you know that,” Riggs rolls his eyes as he spoons mash and brisket past his lips.

“Well make sure your guys know what they should be doing, I don't want to have to manage them.”

“I didn't ask you to, that's what Conrad is for.”

“The town farrier? You have put him in charge for the Saturday you're not working…?” Jorge seems annoyed as he lets his voice trail off.

“Yup,” Riggs whistles and I watch Aspen's lips twist.

“Anyway!” Aspen sings, “Dixie, tell us all about you,” her fork and knife get placed down on her plate. “What have you been up to?”

I feel my insides knot.

“Nothing you don't already know,” I half laugh, half cough.

Reaching for my water, I take a large mouthful.

“What's it like being a country singer?”

I inhale heavily.

“Not all it's cracked up to be, I have to find a new agent. I love singing, but it's just not enjoyable at the moment and of course, with Lainey... it's not as easy as it once was.”

“Is her dad present?”

The question feels like a blow to the gut.

“No, he didn't want anything to do with her.”

Lie.

“What an asshole.”

“Language,” Orla scolds Aspen and she giggles.

“Are you glad to be back in Lovelock? What’s the real reason you’re back?” she asks, eyes burning into mine.

“I told you earlier…” I smile softly, my throat thickening as panic claws at my throat.

Is it hot in here?

I take another mouthful of water to try and wet my throat, my tongue feels like it's swollen to the roof of my mouth.

“Aspen,” Riggs half snaps at her, a smirk on his lips.

“What?” she asks innocently, eyes all wide.

“It wasn't too long ago that you were in Dixie's position and my wonderful Ma here was asking you loads of questions...” he trails off and I see the realisation of what was just happening play across her face.

“Oh my god,” she covers her lips with her hands, “I'm so sorry—you're right babe— please, ignore me. It's none of my business why you're back...”

“It's just nice to see you back home again,” Riggs chimes in.

My eyes land on Tripp and his jaw is wound tight and, in that moment, I am afraid his walls have been built up again.

“To Dixie,” Orla reaches for her wine and holds it up.