Page 59 of Rusty

The time had finally come.

"Are you ready for this, Little Miss Giggles?" Janice whispered to her stuffie, feeling the familiar flutter of nervous excitement in her chest.

The ranch buzzed with activity as people gathered around, eager to witness this momentous occasion. Laughter and chatter filled the air, along with the sweet scent of wildflowers carried on a gentle breeze.

"Of course we're ready," Janice told herself, banishing any lingering self-doubt. She knew that she had worked hard to get to this point, despite her father's disapproval and the years of emotional abuse she had endured. This was her time to shine, her chance to prove that she was more than just a Laird's daughter. She had become the person she wanted to be.

As Janice looked out at the eager faces of the crowd, she felt a surge of gratitude for the supportive community that had welcomed her with open arms. Each person present had played a part in helping her achieve her dream, and she knew she couldn't have done it without them.

"Alright, everyone!" Janice called out, her voice strong and confident. "Let's officially open my animal physio clinic!" With a deep breath, Janice snipped the ribbon, and a cheer erupted from the crowd. Janice’s heart soared with joy and relief, knowing that she had finally found her place in the world—not only professionally, but personally as well.

"Congratulations, Janice!" called out Sara, who had now become a firm friend. The celebration continued, full of laughter, warmth, and the promise of a bright future for both Janice and her beloved animals.

Snickers and Midnight, the mare and stallion whose lives had been transformed at the ranch, grazed peacefully nearby. As Janice watched them, her heart swelled with pride, knowing that she had also played a part in their journey toward healing.

"Can I have everyone's attention?" Chuck called out, silencing the crowd. His bearded face bore a warm smile as he stepped forward to address the gathering, his eyes locking with Janice's. "Today is not just about opening this wonderful clinic. It's about celebrating the incredible woman who made it all happen."

Janice felt her cheeks flush as Chuck continued, recounting her arrival at the ranch and the impact she'd had on the community. "When Janice first joined our ranch, she broke in with a pair of wire cutters and I almost kicked her off our land immediately.”

Many of the Littles snickered at this, and Janice couldn’t help giggling too. She looked down at the scissors in her hands, and put them behind her back, as though she’d been caught red-handed. There were more snickers.

“But Janice was in a desperate situation,” Chuck continued, “and I’m so glad we gave her a chance. She brought kindness, love, and an unwavering dedication to our animals' wellbeing."

"Here, here!" shouted Trent from the crowd, who had taught her so much about veterinary medicine over the past few months. She gave him a big smile and a wave and he waved back.

"Over the past year, we've watched Janice grow and overcome numerous challenges," Chuck said, his voice filled with admiration. "She has touched the lives of not only our animals, but every one of us as well."

As Chuck spoke, Janice felt a warmth spreading through her chest, knowing that she had found a true home at the ranch, surrounded by people who valued and respected her. She wouldn't trade her new life for anything.

"Thank you," Janice choked out, her voice thick with emotion. “I love you all!”

The applause continued, and she beamed at her newfound family.

"Alright, enough with the mushy stuff!" Chuck laughed, clapping Janice on the back. "Let's get this party started, shall we, little one?"

"Sounds like a plan," Janice replied with a grin.

As party tunes started playing on the speakers, the Littles all started to dance.

Rusty walked up to Janice, slipping his arms around her.

"Can you believe it?" Janice asked, her eyes shining with excitement. "I finally have my own clinic."

“I’m so proud of you, babygirl,” he said, giving her a lingering kiss. “You worked so damn hard for this.”

Janice's confidence soared, knowing that she had found her place at the ranch and in Rusty's heart.

The warmth of Rusty's embrace enveloped Janice like a protective cocoon, shielding her from the world and allowing herto bask in the security of his love. She smiled and leaned into him, reveling in the feeling of being truly cherished.

“How are things at the ranch in Colorado, by the way?” asked Janice.

Rusty smiled. “All good, babygirl. Takis is working wonders. Apparently, he’s getting the whole place refurbished as we speak. Should be up and running as a sanctuary for Littles by the end of the year.”

“That’s amazing!” said Janice. She blinked up at Rusty, thinking how handsome he looked in his plaid shirt and cowboy hat today. Even more handsome than the first time she’d ever laid eyes on him. She was very happy to be at this party, but she couldn’t wait for them to have some alone time later. A bit of time in Little space . . . and a lot of time in Daddy’s bed. . . .

"Alright, Little Miss Giggles," Rusty teased, his breath warm on her ear. "What are you thinking about? You've got that adorable little smile on your face."

Janice blushed. "I was just . . . thinking about how far we've come," she confessed, her gaze drifting across the bustling ranch and the gathered guests. "And all the amazing things we've accomplished together." Then, she whispered, “And how sexy you are, Daddy.”

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