"Why did you choose him?" Sadness lingered in his eyes as he emphasized "him." Right then she knew the truth.
"I didn't choose Clay," she said, touching his cheek.
"When I think about you two in the cave…"
Megan put her finger on his lips. "Nothing happened. He wrote a note and signed your name. I went to the lake to meet you," she said with a smile.
"Oh." He stepped away while rubbing the back of his neck. "Can you ever forgive this jerk?"
"Yes, but we need to talk. Are you willing to answer a few questions?" They sat on the front porch steps, some distance between them. "Why do you respect Brett and not your brother? They both enjoy working outdoors, riding, and doing the work it takes to keep this ranch operational."
"Brett owns the ranch. Clay has no desire to own anything or do more than he's doing now."
"He's doing what comes natural. Have you watched him ride? Do you know his gentle manner with horses? Have you watched him repair a barn? He's talented." Megan moved closer and took Colby's hands. As she looked him in the eyes she said, "Be his brother. Life is short. Trust me, I know. Respect his choices." As if the moon had turned full, light showered over her. "Oh, my gosh."
"What?" Colby said, leaning closer to Megan.
"I realize why Clay entered my life last summer. He showed me the importance of dreams. If I want something bad enough, I won't allow anyone to destroy it."
"Clay taught you that," Colby said, almost laughing. "How?"
"By telling me dreams are foolish and college is a waste of time. I never looked beneath the surface until now."
Colby remained silent for a few minutes and then his eyes lit with wisdom. "My brother's smarter than I realized." His smile widened as he looked out over the ranch. "Mr. MacCormack and grandfather were best friends and we had an open invitation at the ranch. This is where Clay learned to ride and rope." He paused a moment and then said, "Thank you."
"You're welcome, but what did I do?"
"You helped me see the truth. Do you think it's too late?"
"Clay will prove more difficult than your grandparents, but don't give up."
Colby took Megan's hands and squeezed until she looked into his face. "Clay coming back hasn't changed your feelings for me, has it," he said, no hint of a question.