Chapter 1123:

Suddenly, the owner seemed to recall something. “George was there with Benson when he played it, keeping him company.”

Elyse nodded thoughtfully, her mind churning with ideas. As she sat in the wooden chair, she slowly sipped her sweet milk. Suddenly, a smile crossed her face. “Your husband should be back, right?” she asked.

The owner laughed, her mood lifting. “He’s out tending the cattle. When he returns, I’ll make sure he meets you.”

Elyse smiled. “Great! Once I collect my violin, I’ll play a few pieces for you both.”

The owner looked pleasantly surprised. “Are you sure? It’s no trouble?”

Shaking her head, Elyse smiled as the breeze played with her hair. “I’d love to. You and your husband can pick the songs, and I’ll perform them.”

The owner’s eyes twinkled. “That sounds amazing. I’ll let him know.”

Elyse tilted her head back, letting the soft sunlight kiss her face. After a few moments, she breathed deeply. “No wonder I’m so fond of this place. The sunlight, the fresh air, the milk—it’s all perfect. And the cows! I really love it here.”

The ranch owner gave her a playful wink. “Well, if you’re that fond of it, why don’t you stay a while longer? I feel like we could become quite close.”

As the sun climbed to its zenith, Elyse’s phone buzzed with a call from Anthony. His voice crackled through the speaker, laden with uncertainty. “My dad’s not keen on talking with you,” he explained, “but he’s willing to hear you out. Can you work with that?”

Elyse’s response was swift and positive. “Absolutely. Even if he just listens, that’s enough for me.”

Anthony exhaled audibly, relief coloring his words. “Thank goodness. I was worried you’d balk. My dad can be… well, difficult.”

After ending the call, Elyse shrugged on her coat. As she reached for the door, she nearly collided with the ranch owner.

The woman’s eyes lit up with surprise. “Heading out? But lunch is almost ready—my husband’s firing up the grill.”

Elyse flashed a warm smile. “I’ve got to try and win George over. If I succeed, I’ll rush back to celebrate with you.”

Laughter bubbled from the ranch owner as she called out, “Come back either way! I’ll set some barbecue aside for you.”

With a grateful nod, Elyse hurried off to Anthony’s place.

She arrived to find Anthony pacing the yard, anxiety etched across his features. . . .