My emotions bubble. Watching John, listening to his words and how sincere they are doesn’t make leaving any easier.
“I know there’s a lot to think about and consider,” I finally say. “And I love your lifestyle. You’ve got Maize and your career, and all of this.”
He gives me a small smile and thankfully changes the subject as the wood cracks and pops. “I’m happy that I get to raise Maize on the ranch. Growing up here has shaped who I am today. Being a part of a large, loud family, I’ve had a good life. I learned that I won’t always get my way, but it’s important to mean what you say and say what you mean. But ranch life isn’t easy. I worked my fair share of younger years doing grunt work, getting kicked by animals, and falling head first into a pile of mud. It’s been a lot of hard work, b
