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Cole sits next to me on the best sofa nineteen-eighty had to offer while Hudson settles on the brown leather recliner facing us. Grams serves the coffee before sitting in the other recliner. “What brings you out to Montana, Mr. Carrington?”

“Please, call me Hudson. We’re pretty much family at this point.”

His words echo around my mind as Grams barks out a laugh. “Well, you’re not wrong about that, son. So, why don’t you tell us what brings you all the way here?”

Hudson shrugs. “I wanted to see Thunderbolt for myself,” he drawls. “And meet the woman who managed to steal my brother’s heart. I’ll be honest. I didn’t think there was a woman alive crazy enough to put up with him.” He side-eyes Cole, mouth twitching like he’s trying not to laugh.

Cole growls a threat to his brother. “Just wait until I get you alone, asshole.”

“Bring it on,” Hudson returns, and I swear it’s like watching two toddlers fight over the same toy. Grams just sits back, lips twitching, clearly enjoying the show like it’s the best thing she’s seen all week.

I decide to cut in. “Why don’t we head out to the barn so Hudson can see Thunderbolt?”

“Sounds like a plan to me.” Hudson stands and follows us out to the barn. My heart pounds loud enough, I swear they’re all going to hear it as we lead the way across the yard. Cole keeps his hand anchored on my lower back, fingers flexing just a little every time Hudson’s gaze cuts over to us.

Hudson doesn’t say much as he surveys the barn. I can see the gears turning behind his eyes as he takes in the paint-chipped trim, the battered office door I keep meaning to fix, and our row of ancient coffee tins lined up on the shelf. It might not be the multi-million dollar outfit he runs, but it’s mine, and I’m proud of The Rolling R Ranch.

I brace myself, ready for the judgment, but he surprises me. “Nice setup,” he says. “Not a lot of people put in the work to keep a barn like this running. You must bust your ass, Reine.”

Then Hudson stops in front of Thunderbolt’s stall. My boy flicks his ears, sizing up the newcomer, and Hudson’s expression shifts from full-on intimidation to something almost… respectful. He studies Thunderbolt like he’s a priceless piece of art, and I have to admit, it kind of throws me.

Cole stands at my side, arms crossed, smirking as his brother admires my horse.

Hudson glances at me, then at Cole, then back to me. “He’s every bit as impressive as you said,” Hudson tells his brother before turning to me. “Can we use your office to discuss business?”