Page 17 of Falling Hard for the Billionaire Cowboy

I kneel down to meet them at eye level, their eager faces peering up at me. Ugh… my heart.

"But Aunt Hayley," Emma the youngest pouts, her little hands on her hips, "why can't you stay here with us?"

“Are you going back to the city?” Ethan, the second boy, chime in.

I ruffle their hair gently. "Well, actually – I’m staying in Redstone, just not here.”

Charlie’s eyes light up. "You’re staying with Uncle Austin, right? Right? I want to stay with Uncle Austin too,” he says excitedly.

It seems this kid was the one with all the information. "That's the one," I nod, amused at his enthusiasm.

"But that's so far away," Emma whines.

I can't help but chuckle. "It's not that far, Em. I promise I'll visit often. How about we plan a picnic soon? We can go to Lake Buchanan."

Ethan jumps in excitedly, "Can we go fishing too? Dad says there are huge bass in that lake!"

"Absolutely," I assure him. "We'll make a whole day of it. Fishing, swimming, maybe even a campfire if your parents say it's okay."

Emma still looks unconvinced. "Pinky promise you'll visit lots?"

I solemnly extend my pinky finger. "Pinky promise."

As we link pinkies, Marcella's voice calls from the kitchen. "Kids, homework! Now!"

There's a chorus of groans, but the kids start shuffling towards the stairs.

Selena turns back. "You'll still be here when we're done, right Aunt Hayley?"

I shake my head regretfully. "Not today, honey. But I'll be back soon, okay?" They nod, disappointment and excitement on their faces as they head upstairs.

I join Marcella in the kitchen, where she's loading the dishwasher.

"Here, let me help with that," I offer, picking up a plate.

Marcella smiles gratefully. "Thanks. So, the old cottage, huh? How's that working out for you?"

I shrug, arranging dishes on the rack. "It's not bad… well according to him. It's probably a bit dusty, but nothing that a good cleaning can't fix. It's... peaceful out there."

"And how's Austin taking the idea of your presence?" she asks, a hint of mischief in her voice.

I nearly drop the glass I'm holding. Realizing that Santiago had probably told Marcella everything.

Of course he would. She’s his wife after all.

“Oh, you know... he's... fine with it, I guess."

Marcella raises an eyebrow. "Uh-huh. Well, just remember, if you need anything - or anyone to talk to - I'm here."

I nod, grateful for her support. "Thanks, Marcella. That means a lot."

As we finish loading the dishwasher, I can't help but feel a mix of emotions.

"You know," Marcella says, closing the dishwasher, "Santiago and I will always love having you over for dinner. When you're settled in, of course."

I smile, touched by the offer. "I'd like that. And I promise I'll visit soon. It's just..."

"You need some time," Marcella finishes for me, understanding in her eyes. "I get it. But don't be a stranger, okay? Even if it was only a couple of days, this is still your home too, Hayley."

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