Page 48 of Falling Hard for the Billionaire Cowboy

But they continue: "Woof, woof.”

I can't help but chuckle.

As I get ready for bed, I wonder what tomorrow will bring. Probably more work, and hopefully I’ll be able to spend more time with Hayley.

I'll take whatever I can get.

Even if it's just a split second.

Chapter twenty-one

HAYLEY

After the thank-you dinner at the cottage, my life remains the same. I'm still busy with work, of course. But I find myself going out of my way to run into Austin most days before I leave for the office. It's not planned, I tell myself.

Just a happy coincidence.

One of those mornings, I spot Austin near the stables. My heart does a little flip as I approach.

"Morning, Austin," I call out, trying to sound casual. "Busy day ahead?"

He turns, a slow smile spreading across his face. "Hayley, what a pleasant surprise. Yeah, got a few fences to mend. You headed to the office?"

I nod, holding up my briefcase. "Big case today. Wish me luck?"

"You don't need luck," he says, his eyes twinkling. "But I'll wish you some anyway."

As I drive away, I can't help but smile. It's just a simple exchange, but it sets my day off right.

***

The next week, I'm leaving the office late when I run into Austin. He's carrying a box from the local bakery.

"Hayley!" he calls out. "You're working late."

I shrug, feeling a bit sheepish. "Big cases. You know how it is."

He nods, then holds out the box. "Here, take this. It's a leftover cake from lunch. No way I can finish it all. You can share it with your paralegal if you want."

"There's no way I can take that," I say, eyeing the box. Not only does it look brand new, it looks so good.

"Come on. I insist," he assures.

I finally accept the box, our fingers brushing for a moment. "Thanks, Austin. That's really sweet of you – really thanks."

As I drive home that night, the scent of chocolate cake filling my car, I realize I'm looking forward to these little moments more than I'd like to admit.

Days pass, and our exchanges become more frequent. One day, I bring him a bowl of my (successfully made) beef stew. Another day, he surprises me with a block of fresh cheese from the farmer's market.

"Thought you might like this," he says, handing me the cheese. "It goes great with that red wine you like."

I feel a warmth spreading through my chest. He remembers my favorite wine.

"Thanks, Austin," I say, my voice softer than I intend. "I'm sure it'll be delicious."

As I walk away, I catch sight of a few ranch hands grinning at us. I pretend not to notice, but I can feel a blush creeping up my neck.

Over time, I start to learn the names of the ranch hands. There's Sebastian, the foreman who is always around, and Charles, Antonio, and so many more.

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