Page 36 of Heart of Mystic Valley
“I don’t believe Carl is stalling. He’s playing it safe by allowing time for the other council members to think through what they heard today. Carl’s not going to stand against Faith.”
“Or Naomi Beckett.” Joshua smiled.
Grayson placed a hand on his brother’s shoulder. “Come on. Let’s talk to Ma.”
They took their time, letting the last of the crowd disperse. Outside, a chill bit through the air.
Naomi Beckett stood by the horses. “Well?” she asked as they approached.
“They listened,” Grayson answered. “The crowd supported you and Faith. You made a significant impact.”
Naomi nodded, her stern features softening a little. “You made a good case. Your father would be proud.”
The knot in Grayson’s stomach loosened at her words. He’d been waiting for her verdict, knowing her approval could be a bellwether for the community.
“Thanks, Ma.”
She turned her sharp eyes on Joshua. “And you? Where do you stand in all this?”
Joshua met her gaze evenly. “I stand with my brother.”
“Good,” Naomi said. “The Becketts need to speak with one voice. I’ll ride back with you, Grayson.” She swung up into the saddle.
Grayson looked at Joshua. “Are you riding back now?” He mounted up, the leather creaking under his weight.
“I’m meeting Faith at the Golden Griddle. I’ll see you at the ranch.”
Joshua Beckett stepped into the Golden Griddle, the aroma of sizzling steaks and fresh coffee thick in the air. He scanned the crowded restaurant with the practiced ease of a rancher surveying a herd. Spotting Faith seated near the front window, he walked toward her. She looked up and waved.
“Hello, Josh.” Her eyes shone with welcome.
“Faith.”
“Have a seat. Maisy will be over to take our orders.” She gestured to the chair next to her.
“Don’t mind if I do. How’d you think the meeting went?”
She settled back into her chair. “Better than expected. Your brother did an excellent job presenting his idea.”
“Grayson’s had practice. The ranch is a handful, and now the council.”
“He seems capable of dealing with both. Do you think his proposal will pass?”
Joshua rested his arms on the table. “Hard to say. The council is split, but Grayson can be persuasive.”
Maisy appeared at their table. “What can I get you two?”
Placing their orders, Faith’s gaze met Joshua’s. “I’m learning it’s a fine line between informing the public and stirring up trouble.”
He looked at her for a long moment. “You walk it well.”
“Thank you, Josh. Have you met the new deputy yet?”
“Not yet.”
Faith looked past Joshua. “Well, there he is now.”
Joshua turned to see a tall, broad-shouldered man with a thick auburn mustache entering the restaurant. He wore a tan duster and weathered Stetson. A tin star gleamed on his chest.
