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I don't move, except for my ragged breath. Deep down, I know he's got a point. But the restless, stubborn part of me isn't interested in admitting he's right. Eventually, the wind gusts drive me inside.

My breakfast is cold, and the kitchen is chaotic with too many women in it. I dump it in the trash before Mom sees and asks why. She's stirring four pots in rotation. Paisley argues with Ava over stuffing. Georgia's making another dessert, and Isabella and Emma are begging to lick the beaters.

I grab a cup of coffee and lean against the counter, staring at them. Dad's words turn over like a stone I can't put down.

You haven't earned that right yet.

Maybe not. But I'm trying.

How am I supposed to earn it if she doesn't let me prove it to her?

By midmorning, Emma's back out at the barn checking on Cinderella. Lainey crouches beside her, running a hand down the pony's leg.

I watch them from across the yard. Emma's face turns soft with relief at whatever Lainey's telling her. The tightness in my chest loosens even though Dad's accusations still ring in my ears.

She's good with more than just Charlie.

Lainey's good with everything, including being patient with a scared eight-year-old and her limping pony.

My earlier worries fade briefly. I start to go toward them and stop.

She needs space.

I force myself not to go over. I join Mason and Alexander at the wood pile and cut more logs for the smoker.

After an hour, sweat soaks my skin and clothes. I go home and shower, then stop at the Butterfly House, but no one is there. So I head to the main house.

Seeing Lainey gives me some relief. Charlie's in a ruffled turkey outfit and I scoop her out of Mom's arms. "Happy Thanksgiving, peanut." I kiss her on the forehead, then lean down and do the same to Lainey. "You too. You look beautiful, by the way."

She smiles. "Thanks. And Happy Thanksgiving to you, too."

"My turn!" Ava says and grabs Charlie out of my arms before I can protest.

I chuckle and pull Lorraine into a hug. "Happy Thanksgiving, Mrs. Cooper."

She hugs me back and clears her throat. "I think it's time to call me Lorraine."

I freeze. Then a grin grows. "Yeah?"

She purses her lips. "Yes."

I lean closer and tease, "Does this mean you like me?"

She narrows her eyes, but her lips twitch. "Let's not go that far."

I chuckle. "Yes, ma'am."

Lainey yawns next to me.

Concerned, I peer closer. "You look tired. Did you sleep last night?"

"A bit. Charlie was up a lot."

"This is why you should stay at my place. I can help with Charlie," I declare.

She smiles but doesn't say anything.

The lack of response irritates me.