Poppy frowned, her gaze darting to Rowdy, then back to him. “He wasn’t a Boone until recently.”
Toben couldn’t argue that fact. “He is now.”
“Ma,” Rowdy interrupted. “Can we get some popcorn?”
He took the boys to get popcorn and bottled water, wandered through the stalls and ended up by the pens, looking at the broncs and bulls.
“He looks mean.” Cody pointed at a massive bull with long horns.
Toben nodded.
“Ever want to ride again?” Rowdy asked.
Toben looked at his son and shook his head. “Nope. My rodeo days are behind me.”
“That’s okay, Dad—you did great,” Rowdy said, taking his hand.
Toben squeezed his hand, smiling.
They made their way back to the stands to find Poppy and Tandy had admirers. “Dad.” Rowdy sighed, shaking his head.
“And they took our seats,” Cody added.
Toben climbed the bleachers, leading the boys up. He didn’t have to say a thing. He didn’t know if it was the look on his face or Rowdy’s “Excuse me, you’re sitting by my ma” that sent the men packing. Either way, they got their spots back.
Tandy and Cody headed out after the rodeo. Tandy offered to take Rowdy for a sleepover, but he wanted to stay and see the fireworks. Toben didn’t argue. This was their first holiday together. They made their way to the concrete dance floor and found Renata on the stage, helping set up for the live music they’d brought in.
“Having a good time?” she asked.
“Yes, ma’am,” Rowdy answered.
“He won the Mutton Bustin’ tonight,” Toben added. “Figure we should celebrate.”
“I’ll come find you once I’m done.” Renata smiled. “Congratulations, Rowdy.”
“Fireworks on the hill?” he asked.
She nodded.
“That’s where we’ll be, then.” He took Rowdy’s hand, stooping to listen to him ask a million questions. When he glanced back at Poppy, he couldn’t help but notice the attention she was getting. Not that he could blame a man for looking. In her sequins, she drew the eye. Once they got a look at her, it was hard to look away. He and Rowdy stopped.
“What?” she asked.
“Thought we’d wait for you,” Toben said.
“Yeah, Ma.” Rowdy held out his other hand. “Dad said the best seats are up here.”
The music started a few minutes later. Renata joined them, a thick blanket in hand. She spread it out and sat. “Now tell me all about your competition,” she said to Rowdy.
Toben stood with Poppy, her agitation putting him on edge. He didn’t know how to make this better.
By the time Rowdy had finished his story, the music had slowed and the faint popping of firecrackers had grabbed Rowdy’s attention.
“Fireworks?” he asked, jumping up.
Renata pointed. “Look right over there, Rowdy. Should start any minute.”
Poppy sighed, swaying slightly to the music. He didn’t need any more encouragement than that. “Dance with me?” he asked.