Page 17 of Unexpected Second Chance For Love

He could read her unspoken question in her eyes. Did his kiss mean anything? Was he still closed off to love?

Surprisingly, Austin found the answer not what he expected. “I kissed you because I like you and for the first time can see a future with someone.”

And in his heart, he knew that his future was with Payton.

Despite their age difference, Payton seemed older than her years. Perhaps losing both her parents and being raised by older brothers contributed to her maturity. She’d always stood out from other girls and the distinction was more profound now that she’d grown into a woman.

Coming to know the grown up version of his childhood friend, he couldn’t stop thinking about all manner of serious topics related to his intentions towards her.

They returned to the trail as the horses grew restless and Payton leaned down to whisper in Mabel’s ear and offer encouraging words. The mare’s whinny in response let him know she was just as enamored with Payton as Austin was.

They made it to their destination a short time later and tied their horses to a tree in range of fresh grass. Their destination was the overlook that showcased all of Wildwood Falls below. A favorite of his brother, Liam, Austin seldom came up here. While there was a dirt road leading to this spot, the horse trail from the other side was more scenic which was why Austin preferred it. And it was a good trail to assess his therapy horses without risking an injury on more challenging terrain.

Standing on this hill, looking out over the valley below, Austin felt like he’d finally made it home. His heart swelled with emotion as he allowed himself to sit with the experience of the moment. He was on his family’s land—his land. The legacy that had been passed down from his grandparents to his parents, then to him and his siblings.

Payton came to stand next to him, taking in the view. “You can see the whole valley from here.” The awe in her voice loosened something in his chest until he felt like his emotions would burst like a dam.

“I haven’t been up here in years. It’s my brother’s thinking place.”

Payton smiled. “I can see why. It’s peaceful.”

They stood in silence for a while, taking in the view. The horses whinnied quietly behind them, enjoying the slight breeze and the fresh grass. The past decade of memories washed over Austin. For the first time since the fateful night of the accident, he felt the sharp sting of guilt fade. He wasn’t the same person he’d been. He’d felt broken for so many years that he’d assumed that was his new normal. Grief didn’t loosen its grip the way others had described. It had kept a tight hold on Austin.

Now, in the breeze from the mountains, he finally felt the grip loosen until the feelings floated away with the wind. He’d always mourn what was lost, but Austin felt lighter than he had in as long as he could remember. The past was unchangeable but the future spread out ahead of him with infinite potential.

He was proud of the work he was doing on the equine therapy program. It would be ready to open next month. He’d taken all the difficult feelings and channeled them into something that gave back to others. A seed of hope planted itself in his heart. Maybe he could move on. Become a better man and have something to offer a partner. To offer Payton.

“Will you come work for me?”

The question popped out and Payton turned to him, surprise clear in her eyes. He’d been considering asking her this question for weeks, but hadn’t been sure until right this moment.

“At the equine therapy program?”

Her eyes were shining bright with excitement and hope and Austin felt it like a punch to the gut.

“Yes, you’re great with the horses and would be a great addition to the program.”

“I haven’t worked as a therapist before.”

“You have the training and credentials, right?”

Payton nodded. “I do. And the supervised hours. I just haven’t had the opportunity to work in the field yet. Not many openings for equine therapy in tiny Wildwood Falls.”

“Well there is now. And it’s yours if you want it.”

Payton worried her lip with her teeth. “I want it. I have to talk with my brothers before I can formally accept. It would mean cutting back on hours with the tour company.”

“I understand. Take the time you need to make arrangements. The opening is planned for next month. Unless you plan to refuse me, then I’ll need to know as soon as possible to find someone else.”

Payton impulsively hugged him. His arms instinctively wrapped around her to hold her close. He could smell the floral scent of her shampoo and the faintly earthy smell that came from riding horses.

“I will make this work,” she promised. Her forehead was pressed into his shoulder and she made no move to pull back.

Austin breathed in her scent, determined to commit this moment to memory. Payton was a constant in his life and the thought of sharing his business with her gave him a thrill he hadn’t expected. He’d planned so much of this endeavor in private that having someone to share the journey with was a comfort.

“One more thing,” he said as he pulled back just enough to meet her eyes. “I’ll be your boss soon, so I want to get this out of the way before that happens.”

Payton’s brow wrinkled adorably in confusion. “What’s on your mind?”

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