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And somewhere between the first quarter moon and all the angst between crying and kisses, we built a life so good it makes my chest ache.

Of course, right then, a herd of goats bearing the Motley Crewd brand pick that exact moment to charge through the concession area, head butting a lemonade stand and nailing me right in the ass as they sprint past.

“Jed!” I shout, staggering forward while Penny wheezes with laughter.

“I said I was working on training them!” Jed hollers from the bleachers, clearly not moving at all.

The Crew erupts in laughter.

My babies are still asleep.

The sky is streaked with pink and gold.

My heart is whole.

This is it.

This is everything.

“Alright. Pack it up. Let’s get home, everyone!”

Penny grins and I swear, I love her a little more with each passing moment.

Before I go, I want to leave you with this one thing I learned over the past couple of years since I came to Barren County.

Sometimes family is who you’re born to. Other times, it’s the ones you find. Born in fire. Found in the earth.

But see, it’s the ones who ride beside you when the world gets wild—the ones who earn your respect with their blood, sweat, tears, and unshakeable loyalty.

That’s your Crew.

That’s your home.

And if you haven’t found yours yet?

Well, just stop on by, and we’ll see what we can do.

Because, you know, you’re always welcome at the Motley Crewd Ranch.

Until next time.

* * *

The end.

* * *