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W hile we were in the city, we spent a couple of days sightseeing.

We kicked things off after the court hearing by surprising Caleb with a trip to the American Museum of Natural History.

He often talks about visiting the dinosaur museum in Chicago with his mom, and while we couldn’t make that happen this time, he still enjoyed it.

One day soon, we’ll take him back to visit all the places that were special to them.

She may be gone, but Jensen and I are committed to keeping her memory alive, so Caleb will always remember how deeply she loved him.

We flew back from New York last night, and although we had a lot of fun, it’s so good to be home.

I started the morning with a maintenance check on the cabins and covered the general store for a few hours so Ethel could take care of her housekeeping duties.

Jensen picked Caleb up from summer camp today so he could take him for his first horse ride.

He wanted them to start riding together and in the coming weeks, will teach him how to ride on his own.

I can’t wait for the day when we’re all able to go out together as a family.

On our way home from New York, Jensen told Caleb that we’re a couple and that they’ll be living in the cottage for the foreseeable future.

What excited him most was finding out that he won’t have to say goodbye to Ziggy, and that he’ll still get to see Mama Julie at school every day when he starts kindergarten.

The plan is for me to continue watching him in the afternoons.

I cherish our time together and wouldn’t trade it for anything.

The only change is that I’ve told Jensen I won’t accept payment anymore.

It was never about the money anyway. I could never replace Caleb’s mom, but I love him like my own, and I hope he knows he has a safe place with me—always.

It’s late afternoon by the time I finish at the general store and head back to the cottage.

With Jensen and Caleb still out, I decide to unpack.

We got in late last night, and I haven’t had the chance until now.

I figured Charlie or Birdie would stop by today, especially after how many times they said they missed me while I was gone.

But now that I think about it, the group chat has been silent today.

That’s unusual, considering we text constantly.

Backroads & Bad Decisions Group Chat

Briar: Y’all have been awfully quiet today.

Briar: Should I be worried you started another chat without me? *Face with raised eyebrow emoji

Charlie: Hi! We missed you!

Birdie: Welcome home! Earl drove me to town this morning and said he saw you coming in late last night.

Wren: Loved the photos you sent. Caleb is the sweetest .

I’m curious why no one’s answering my question. They’re normally upfront—Charlie in particular.

Briar: He really is.

Briar: Charlie? Birdie? Want to swing by later?

Charlie: Wish I could, but I’ve got inventory to handle at the shop.

Birdie: I’m still keeping a low profile, sorry!

My brows knit in confusion. Charlie did inventory last week, and Birdie just said she was riding in Earl’s taxi earlier today. Something’s going on, but I’m not sure what.

Wren: I’d stop by if I didn’t live so far away.

Briar: At least someone missed me. You’re my favorite, Wren.

Charlie: Starts a new group chat…

Briar: *emotionless face emoji

I giggle as I tuck my phone into my pocket, coming to a standstill when I enter my bedroom. There’s a big white box tied with a red bow sitting in the middle of my bed. As I get closer, I notice a handwritten note on top.

Sugar,

I knew this would look amazing on you the second I saw it. We’ve got a date tonight, so take your time getting ready, and when Caleb and I get back, we’ll head out.

I love you,

Jensen

My breath catches as I open the box to reveal a dress inside—a baby-blue A-line with a side slit and straps that tie into bows on the shoulders. I remember passing a boutique in New York where I’d admired it in a window display. Jensen must have gone back to get it for me.

God, he’s the sweetest man. Not only is he an amazing father, but he’s always finding little ways to show he cares through thoughtful gestures, and I’ll never take them for granted.

After a long bubble bath, I do my hair and makeup, then head outside.

I set up a pen for Ziggy out front so he can wait with me for Jensen and Caleb.

After being cooped up in the barn while we were away—where Heath could keep an eye on him more easily—he’s clearly thrilled to be back in the grass, happy and carefree.

It’s not long before I spot a figure in the distance.

As it gets closer, I see Caleb sitting up front on the horse, his small hands gripping the saddle horn, with Jensen behind him, one hand on the reins and the other wrapped loosely around Caleb’s waist. They’re smiling from ear to ear, and their joy is infectious.

It makes me excited for all the memories we’ll share on the ranch together in the years to come.

When they reach the house, Jensen gently pulls on the reins, bringing the horse to a stop, and climbs down before helping Caleb dismount.

I step off the porch just as Caleb races toward me, and I catch him in a hug.

“Hey, little man. How was your first horseback ride?”

“So much fun! The horse’s name is Lucky and he moves really fast.” He throws his arms out to mimic the motion. “Dad promised we could go again next week!”

“That’s so exciting,” I say with a smile.

“He also said I’m having a sleepover at Mama Julie and Pops’ tonight, and we’re making cookies and watching Shrek . ”

“Wow, sounds like fun.”

Caleb nods enthusiastically before letting me go, and running over to Ziggy’s pen to play with him.

I glance over at Jensen standing nearby, his gaze sweeping over me, taking in every inch.

“You’re so beautiful,” he murmurs.

Warmth rushes to my cheeks as I tuck a piece of hair behind my ear. “Thank you. I love the dress—it fits perfectly.”

“The dress is very nice, but it’s you that makes it shine,” he says, stepping closer. “I have to take Lucky back to the barn and grab a shower. Then it’s date night.”

“You’re always full of surprises, aren’t you?”

He closes the remaining distance between us.

“Only the good kind,” he says, pressing a kiss to my lips.

“Eww,” Caleb groans. “Kissing is gross. Right, Ziggy?”

The goat bleats in agreement before looking our way. When he notices Jensen, he freezes, his legs locking straight before toppling over with a dramatic flop.

We all burst out laughing, Jensen included. I just hope Ziggy never stops fainting at the sight of him—it’s comedy gold.

I couldn’t be happier, and looking ahead, it’s easy to see why—a swooning goat, Caleb’s infectious giggles, and the urban cowboy who stole my heart. Nothing could be better than this.

After Jensen returned Lucky to the barn and got ready himself, we dropped Caleb off at Mama Julie’s.

She was already waiting on the porch, subtly blocking the front door, which makes me think she was in on whatever Jensen had planned.

My curiosity grew as he led me around back, through the apple orchard behind the ranch house .

“You’re really not going to tell me where we’re going?” I ask as we weave through another row of trees.

Jensen squeezes my hand, a grin tugging at his lips. “No, but at least I left the blindfold at home tonight.”

“Oh, I moved it to the drawer by our bed,” I respond, playing it cool.

He stares at me, eyes wide. “Keep talking like that, woman, and I’ll throw you over my shoulder and take you home.”

“It’ll be worth the wait,” I say with a mischievous smile.

We finally come to a stop when we reach a small clearing.

A translucent canopy tent stands beneath the fading sun, the distant mountains rising behind it like a painted backdrop.

A rustic wooden table is set for two, adorned with flickering candles and fresh greenery, and two plush chairs are positioned next to each other.

Nearby is a smaller table with a food warmer and miniature bottles of whiskey and water.

I spin in a slow circle, soaking in every detail. “Oh my god, this is incredible.”

“Urban cowboy had help.” I turn toward the house when I hear Charlie’s voice, to see her approaching with a covered plate, Birdie right behind her with another.

I narrow my eyes playfully. “So this is why you two were acting suspicious when I texted you earlier.”

“We were a little busy elbow-deep in decorations and making potato salad,” Birdie says, setting her plate on the warmer.

I watch as my friends light the last few candles, putting the finishing touches on the romantic setup.

I’m incredibly lucky to have their support.

Their sincere desire for my happiness is overwhelming, particularly when they went all out after Jensen asked them to be involved tonight.

It’s like he knew exactly how much it would mean to me.

“Looks like our fairy god-matchmaker duties are complete. Don’t have too much fun, you two,” Charlie says, shooting me a smirk as she passes.

When Birdie walks by, she gives my arm a gentle squeeze. “You’ve got yourself a good man.”

I glance at Jensen, smiling. “I really do.”

“Appreciate the backup,” Jensen says to them with a grin.

“Love you both!” I add, blowing Charlie and Birdie kisses as we all burst into laughter before they turn and head toward the ranch house.

Once they’re out of sight, I wind my arms around Jensen’s neck, tilting my head to kiss him.

“Thanks for doing this.”

“Anything for you, sugar,” he says with a warm smile. “Why don’t we sit down and enjoy the beautiful view?” He motions to the mountains and setting sun.

He pulls out a chair for me, and takes the seat beside me. “Before we eat, there’s something I want to talk to you about.”

I let out a playful gasp. “Uh-oh. Sounds serious.”

Jensen clears his throat, and pulls a folded piece of paper from his front pocket. He smooths it out and places it on the table in front of me. It appears to be a sketch, covered in lines and measurements.

My brows knit together. “What’s this?”

“Plans for your children’s sanctuary,” he says, his lips twitching with excitement. “I had a few different layouts drawn up so you’d have options, but if none of them are what you envisioned, we can have something new designed.”

I barely process what he’s saying. My mind stuck on the first part of his response.

“Sorry. I don’t understand.” My voice falters, thick with emotion.

“You’ve had this dream for years, always putting it on the backburner because you thought you had to do it alone.

” He takes my hand in his, rubbing my palm with his thumb.

“You’re not alone anymore, sugar. Having the privilege to see firsthand the difference you’ve made in Caleb’s life made me realize that every child deserves someone like you—someone who’s willing to advocate for them and honor their individuality.

” He pauses, giving my hand a gentle squeeze.

“You have the ability to make a positive impact on countless kids who’ve been overlooked or misunderstood, and now, you finally have the chance to turn that gift into a safe space for those who need it. ”

My stomach flutters with anticipation as I use my free hand to trace the plans, trailing my finger along the lines on the paper. “These are amazing, but it might be a while before I can move forward. I just don’t have the funds or time right now,” I say with a sigh.

It pains me to admit it, but I haven’t saved enough to start the project, and the little free time I have now will go toward finally finishing the cottage renovations.

“You don’t have to do this alone,” Jensen says, repeating his words from earlier. “I want to help.”

“Are you really ready to walk away from the corporate world?”

“I accomplished what I set out to do in New York years ago—built a company I’m proud of.

But even before you and Caleb came into my life, something about my career felt off.

The rush of proving people wrong faded, and my routine became predictable.

” He straightens in his chair, adjusting his hands to rest on my hips.

“I’m ready for a new chapter—one that centers around something far more important than anything I ever achieved at DataLock Systems: you and Caleb.

That starts with helping you bring your dreams to life. ”

A warmth spreads through my chest. “Thank you for wanting to help but what if I mess it all up? I have no clue how to run a nonprofit. The whole process is overwhelming, and I think that’s why it’s taken me this long to get started.”

Admittedly, having someone with experience and a genuine interest in my passions to guide me through the process would make the journey less intimidating and turn the uncertainty into an adventure we can share together.

Jensen’s expression brightens. “You’re in luck because when it comes to the business logistics, I’ve got you covered.

I’m committed to making sure your vision comes to life, whatever it takes.

Plus, if you can spare me now and then, Heath could use an extra hand on the ranch.

I’ve enjoyed helping him and Walker more than I expected. ”

“Might do you some good. Maybe they’ll teach you the difference between a non-adjustable wrench and an adjustable one,” I tease with a chuckle. “Especially if you’re planning to help me finish renovating the cottage, too.”

“That’s what I have you for. We’re the perfect match.” He reaches over, running a finger along the curve of my jaw. “We’ll renovate the cottage together, and with the sanctuary, I’ll be here every step of the way. But it’s yours. You’ll always have the final say, sugar.”

I tilt my head, studying him. “Does that make me your boss?”

“You accept my help, and I’ll gladly take your orders.”

I nod. “I could get used to that.”

A few months ago, I would have struggled to accept Jensen’s help.

But watching him return to Bluebell—a place he swore he’d never set foot in again—because it was the best decision for Caleb has taught me an important lesson: accepting support from the people who love you most isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a strength.

My summer began like any other on the ranch, centered on work and moving closer to my dream of opening a children’s sanctuary.

Then Jensen and Caleb came to town, turning my world upside down in the best way possible.

They’ve taught me that the greatest gifts often come when you least expect them, and I’ll never take it for granted that I now have a family of my own—filling my days with love and purpose I wouldn’t trade for anything.

I glance over at Jensen, his eyes filled with promise. “From here on out, it’s you, me, and Caleb against the world.”

“Nothing could be better,” I murmur. “Now, shut up and kiss me, cowboy.”