Page 58 of Alex

“I was so bored at home. I’m just waiting for something to happen, but I haven’t heard from Alex for almost a week.”

“I’m sure he’s working on it,” Marlowe said.

“He is and he has another agent working with him now. Maybe they’ll find out something together.”

“I hope so. I mean, you need to know something, either way, to ease your mind.”

“You’re so right, Peyton. I have to pick up some things at the grocery store then we’re heading back home. I’ll see you both Friday night.” Dylan looked at Peyton. “Bring lots of wine. I have a feeling I’m going to need it.”

Peyton laughed. “I’ll bring plenty. We’ll see you then. We love you.”

“We love you too. Bye for now.”

Dylan took Zoey from Peyton, placed her on her feet, took her hand, and walked out of the shop. As she walked along the sidewalk, she smiled as she watched the people milling about. From March until early October, the towns of Clifton, Spring City, and Hartland were filled with tourists. The towns loved it because of the revenue the people brought.

Once they arrived home, Zoey was ready for a nap. Dylan would love one too, but she’d rather take one with Alex. What was he doing? Was he still staking out the pastures? Why hadn’t she heard from him?

“Damn man. He thinks I’m hardheaded. I have nothing on him,” she muttered as she walked to her office.

She still had three bulls, so she needed to make records of the two young ones. She was hoping their sperm would be as much in demand as Toga’s. Piglet was sired by Toga, so he has to have good sperm, she hoped.

The day seemed to drag on, but when it was time to call it a day and get some sleep, she tossed and turned all night. When would she hear from him? She punched her pillow, lay down, closed her eyes, and prayed for sleep.

****

Alex grinned as he watched the bull being led into the small paddock. He looked at the photo on his phone and knew he’d found him. He showed the phone to Luke.

“That’s him,” Luke said.

Alex got to his feet, as did Luke, and they made their way to the booth where the bulls were checked.

The man looked at them and frowned.

“What do you gentlemen need?”

“Have you checked the livestock for microchips?”

“We did.”

“Is that right?” Luke asked the man.

“Of course, it’s the law.”

“I’d like to see the papers on the bull in the paddock now.” Alex stared at the man.

“If you’re interested in him, you need to bid on him,” the man snapped as he got to his feet.

Luke placed his hands on the table, leaned close, and glared at the man.

“Where is your chip reader?”

“I’m not sure…”

“That’s all right. I have one.” Luke removed his cellphone from his pocket and held it up for the man to see.

“I do too,” Alex said as he held his phone up too.

“Who are you?”