Page 20 of A Cowboy's Halloween

Jack cleared his throat. The question interrupted his moment of reflection about Heather, but Jack quickly shifted his focus back to the practical aspects of organizing the Haunted Harvest.

“Oh, just some ideas for the Haunted Harvest,” Jack said idly. “But speaking of ideas, do you think we should have flowers as part of the decorations? Colton’s girlfriend, Susan Green, has that flower shop, and she might be able to help us out.”

Roy rubbed his chin. “Flowers could add a nice touch, especially if we use them strategically in certain areas. Susan might have some great ideas for incorporating them into the spooky ambiance.”

“Precisely. I’ll talk to Colton about it and see if Susan is willing to collaborate with us. It could be a lovely addition to the Haunted Harvest.”

With their discussion shifted to practical matters once more, Jack decided to keep his growing feelings for Heather to himself for the time being, resolving to wait until Halloween night to take any steps in that direction. The Haunted Harvest remained their primary focus, and Jack was determined to make it a memorable event for the community and, perhaps, a special night for himself and Heather.

The two brothers got back to work, and that night, all of the Griffin brothers continued their preparations for the event.

They spent the following days coordinating with Beverly and Emily, finalizing the plans for volunteers, and making sure all the attractions, decorations, and safety measures were in place. Colton and Susan from Hidden Creek Orchard’s team were also consulted about incorporating flowers into the decor, and Susan eagerly agreed to provide floral arrangements that would add a unique and elegant touch to the spooky atmosphere.

As the event’s date drew closer, the excitement in Shooting Star Canyon grew. The community buzzed with anticipation for the Haunted Harvest, and the Griffin brothers were determined to make it a night to remember.

Jack and Heather continued to work closely on the project, their friendship deepening with each passing day. They shared laughs, creative ideas, and moments of camaraderie while supporting each other in their respective roles. Jack patiently waited for the right moment to express his feelings to Heather, knowing that Halloween night would be the perfect backdrop for such a heartfelt revelation.

In the midst of all the planning and preparations, Jack’s heart beat a little faster each time he saw Heather, and he couldn’t help but look forward to the moment when he could finally share his true feelings with her, making the Haunted Harvest a truly special night for both of them.

* * *

A few nights before the first night of the Haunted Harvest, Jack was in his bedroom, and he found a moment of quiet solitude to offer a heartfelt prayer to God. He looked up at the starry sky and sought guidance and blessings for the upcoming event and the path ahead, especially regarding his growing feelings for Heather.

“Dear God, as the Haunted Harvest approaches, I humbly ask for Your guidance and blessings. Please watch over our efforts to make this event a success, to bring joy to the community, and to support those in need through the Harvest Hope Foundation.”

Jack’s voice was filled with determination and hope.

“And, Lord, I also pray for guidance in matters of the heart. Heather has become an important part of my life, and I’m grateful for the friendship we share. I pray that as we move forward, our paths align in a way that brings happiness and fulfillment to both of us.”

He closed his eyes briefly, taking a moment to reflect on the journey they had embarked on together, both in organizing the Haunted Harvest and in their blossoming connection.

“Please grant me the wisdom to recognize the right time and the courage to express my feelings when the moment is right. I trust in Your divine plan, and I know that whatever the future holds, it will be guided by Your grace.”

With his prayer offered, Jack felt a sense of calm and reassurance. He knew that the Haunted Harvest and his evolving relationship with Heather were in good hands—both his and the hands of God. As he gazed at the stars above through his window, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of hope and anticipation for the events that awaited him.

CHAPTER10

On the night before the first day of the Haunted Harvest, Heather gathered her makeup supplies and set up a makeshift makeup station in a well-lit area in the barn. She was eager to do a trial makeup run on the Griffin brothers to ensure that their spooky looks would be perfect for the event. Roy, being the first volunteer, took a seat in the chair, ready to be transformed.

“All right, Roy, let’s start with you,” Heather said, excitement coloring her tone. “I’m going to give you a hauntingly good look.”

Roy grinned, clearly looking forward to the transformation, and Heather began her makeup artistry. She carefully applied makeup to create ghostly pale skin, darkened eye sockets, and eerie facial features. Her skilled hands worked with precision as she added subtle details that would make Roy’s character truly terrifying.

“Heather, you’ve got some serious talent. I already feel scarier!”

She smiled. “Thanks, Roy, but we’re just getting started. Wait until you see the final result.”

After finishing Roy’s makeup, Heather admired her work and showed him a mirror so he could see his ghostly appearance.

“What do you think, Roy?” she asked proudly.

Roy gaped, clearly amazed. “Wow, Heather, this is incredible! I’m going to haunt some dreams for sure.”

Heather chuckled, pleased with the positive response.

Her artistic talent had transformed Roy into a hauntingly eerie specter. With her makeup artistry, she had created a chilling ghostly appearance.

Roy’s skin was given a pallid, almost translucent complexion, resembling a supernatural apparition.

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