Page 24

Our final group of the season departs, following Callum up the winding trail. Their horses move at an easy pace as they disappear into the golden hues of the setting sun. I linger for a moment, watching the dust settle in their wake and a peaceful warmth fills my chest.

I can’t take credit for the idea behind Kingridge Ranch’s family camp summer sessions. Alex and Cassidy dreamed it up. But it was Bowen and I who worked hard to bring the program to life.

Seeing families unplug from their screens and immerse themselves in nature, laughter, and adventure makes every ounce of effort worth it. There’s something special about knowing we’re helping people make real, lasting memories. The best part is, there is no media required.

It’s been just over a year since I arrived at Kingridge Ranch. Somehow this place gets more stunning by the day. Everything about my life here with Bowen feels like a dream. Of course, the outdoor adventure and cowboy boots took some getting used to. It’s nothing like I imagined for myself. This life is imperfect,messy, and absolutely beautiful. I wouldn’t change a single thing.

I can’t say the same for Bowen. He’s asked me to marry him nearly every single day. I keep saying yes. But neither of us are in a rush to make it official. We know where we stand and I’m okay with leaving the world guessing for a little while longer. This relationship is just about us and we are impossibly in love, no contract is needed.

Turning toward the ranch, I take a deep breath of the crisp evening air. It’s time for my favorite part of the week. I head to what’s quickly become my favorite place on the ranch… my recording studio. After my appearance on the Boots and Bitching Podcast, the idea forStories from the Ranchwrote itself.

When you want to shape the narrative, you tell the story yourself. This podcast is exactly what Kingridge Ranch needed. I think I needed it too. There’s something about speaking my truth into the mic that feels like freedom. Each episode gives me a chance to share the magic of the ranch. I interview employees who know the history of the land and occasionally we spill a little of our own tea.

I walk past the stables formerly known as Buck and Whinny and keep going until I reach the door to my office studio. I step inside and find Bowen is already there. He leans casually against the desk with his arms crossed over his broad chest and my heart skips a beat at the sight of him.

"Another episode in the works?" Bowen asks, his voice low and teasing, the familiar rasp melts me like a warm embrace.

“You know it.” I grin and close the space between us. "I have to get as many loaded up as possible before this baby comes and ruins all of our best-laid plans." A soft giggle escapes me as I press a hand low against my growing bump.

"I hope she wrecks them all.” Bowen stands and wraps his arms around me.

I relax into the embrace. Being pressed against him feels like coming home. I look up at him and his eyes flicker with deep, unshakeable love. He rests his warm palms against my stomach and then plants a gentle kiss on my forehead.

From the moment I found out I was pregnant, Bowen hasn’t left my side. He’s been there through every wave of nausea, every midnight craving, and every whispered fear I was too afraid to say out loud. He’s the ever-present, doting dad already. The man watches over me like it’s his life’s purpose and I’m starting to think that maybe it is.

Bowen loves me just the way I am and I will never stop being grateful for all the joy he brings to my world. I lace my fingers with his. “I love you and I can’t wait to see you become a dad.”

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