Tackling Tobias (Big Sky Universe)

Taking over the ranch when my father died four years ago forced my life to change. Not that I had much of a life, but I had a career in the NFL with the Chicago Bears as a tight end, making millions a year and playing a sport I used to love.

It’s not that I don’t love my family heritage, but it’s just me still standing in this large home with no family near. My only sister lives in Chicago with her husband and kids after having followed me out there to go to school. Attending college didn’t last long because she met Landon, and they were expecting their first kid before we knew it.

“You look like shit,” John says as soon as I enter the stall.

“Thanks. I’m tired and hungry on top of being pissed the fuck off.” Seeing her on my bed made me livid. Ruiz was lucky that I didn’t find him on my bed or I would have shot him on the spot.

“Well, if it makes you feel better, they were able to get the little calf to come out. Mother and baby unharmed.”

I let out a sigh, letting my shoulders drop with relief. That’s great, considering the stress the cow had been under all afternoon. “Good. That’s really damn good.” After everything today, I could use something positive.

I head outside the barn to check out the sun setting over the mountains. Despite my anger and fatigue, the sight has a way of lightening my mood.

“Mr. Reynolds, everything should be back to normal in a couple of days. You know the drill. If she has any issues, please don’t hesitate to call,” Angela, our vet says, shaking my hand. She’s a petite blonde, but she handles these animals like she’s my size.

“Great. Thank you for coming out here at the last minute.”

“It’s what I live for. Now, excuse me. I have a date tonight.” She smiles and hops into her truck. John and I look back and forth at each other. It’s not like her to date. She’s all work and no play. “I’ll email you my bill tomorrow.”

I nod and wave goodbye. She’s amazing with these animals.

“I’m without another hand and a cook,” I grumble as John stands next to me, watching the sunset.

“At least winter’s on its way,” he remarks.

Nodding, I can agree with that. Winter means fewer hours of work to do.

“Yeah. It’s getting darker earlier.” I sigh, running my hand through my hair. I really do need to get it cut. I’ll head in tomorrow morning to get that done.

“So who’s willing to go in there and pack up her shit for me? I need to strip my bed,” I say as we make our way toward the house and his truck, which is parked by the path that leads to my driveway.

“That’s some shit. I wonder if they just thought it would be dangerous fun or to be assholes,” he says, pulling out his cell phone. He’s probably going to call his wife to let her know he’s on his way home.

“Either way, I’m fucking pissed off. Now I’ve got a lot of shit to do. Seems like I’ll be sleeping on the sofa.”

“Do you want me to call in one of those companies that have a group of maids to clean quickly?”

“Yeah. I guess I’ll be eating with you guys for the time being since finding a cook is a lot harder.” After spending years on the road in locker rooms, at diners, I’d had enough of the whole communal life. I like my solitude. “Well, I’m off to make a sandwich. Send someone over when you can to get her shit cleared.”

“Will do. My wife’s got food cooking always for you. I’ll have her share if you want to come over. It’s spaghetti night.”

“I’d love to have Louisa’s cooking, but I’m afraid that if I’m not here when she gets back, shit’s going to hit the fan. Damn, I’m going to need a new lock as well.”

“No problem. We’re only five minutes away if you change your mind. I’ll see what I can do about the maids in the morning.”

“Thanks, John. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“Probably die a miserable old man. Scratch that—you’re already halfway to the old and way past miserable. I think you need to find you a good girl to marry and settle down with.”

“Maybe one day, but I ain’t got time for it. Unless she lands in my lap, that isn’t going to happen.”

The second I’m through my doors, I walk into the blanket cupboard under the stairs and grab sheets and a blanket to put on the sofa. I could sleep in one of the other bedrooms, but most of the beds aren’t made. I only keep my room and the housekeeper’s rooms prepared. Two bedrooms are empty and the other two are used for my sister and her kids when they visit. I don’t have the energy to make the beds, so the sofa will have to do just fine.