Page 54 of A Cowboy's Halloween

“No, it’s fine,” Heather said. “Intentions matter, and who knows? Maybe I needed that shove to open up to Jake. We tried to go out on a date, but it was so awkward, and I think that was in part because I hadn’t opened up to him yet.”

“Opening up is a big step, Heather,” Jessica encouraged. “It takes courage, and it’s a sign that you trust him.”

Heather took comfort in Jessica’s words, knowing that her friend’s approval and support meant a great deal to her. “Thanks, Jessica. I’m glad you think positively of him.”

“I just want to see you happy and surrounded by good people.”

Heather grinned. Today had been a good day. Yes, it would’ve been better if she could’ve seen Jack, but maybe this time, she could make him breakfast. At his place, though. She didn’t want her parents hovering around.

CHAPTER25

The following morning, Jack was pleasantly surprised by a familiar knock on his apartment door. When he opened it, he found Heather standing there, a bag of groceries in her arms and a determined look on her face.

“Morning, Jack!” she exclaimed cheerfully. “I hope you’re hungry because I’m making us breakfast.”

Jack smiled at her enthusiasm. “Good morning, Heather! Breakfast sounds fantastic. Come on in.”

Heather entered his apartment, and together, they headed to the kitchen. Jack’s heart warmed at the thoughtfulness of her gesture.

“You didn’t have to do this, you know.”

“I wanted to. Consider it a thank you for all your help during the Haunted Harvest.”

As Heather began to unpack the groceries and set the ingredients on the counter, Jack couldn’t help but admire her determination and kindness.

“Well, I appreciate it, Heather,” he said warmly. “Especially after…”

“Water under the bridge,” she said with a wave of her hand and a twinkle in her eyes.

He sucked in a breath. As much as he had fallen for her, he would be willing to wait as long as it took for her to heal. He had, and she needed to as well, regardless of whether or not the two of them dated.

“What are we having?” he asked.

“Apple cinnamon pancakes! My specialty.”

Jack chuckled, delighted by her choice. “Sounds amazing. I’ll be your trusty sous-chef,” he said playfully.

“Just don’t get in my way,” she teased.

“I don’t think two cooks are too many.”

“We’ll find out, won’t we?” she joked.

Heather and Jack spent the morning preparing breakfast together, sharing laughter and stories as they flipped pancakes and brewed coffee. It was a simple yet meaningful moment, and Jack couldn’t help but feel grateful for Heather’s presence in his life.

Their breakfast together marked the beginning of another day filled with shared moments and the possibility of building something special between them.

After breakfast, they headed over to the orchard, where the Haunted Harvest continued to be a resounding success, drawing in visitors and creating an atmosphere of excitement and spookiness. Throughout the day, Jack couldn’t help but be impressed by the event’s popularity and the enthusiasm of the attendees. He made it a point to visit Heather frequently, ensuring everything was running smoothly at the zombie transformation station and taking the opportunity to spend time with her.

He smiled warmly. “Heather, this place looks even more incredible today!”

“Thanks, Jack! It’s been a whirlwind, but I’m loving every moment of it.”

As the day progressed, Jack’s visits became more frequent, and their interactions were filled with laughter. He admired the dedication and hard work Heather put into her role at the Haunted Harvest, and he couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride in her.

“You’re doing an amazing job, Heather. The turnout is incredible!”

“Not because of me!”

---