Page 49 of Falling Hard for the Billionaire Cowboy

One morning, I find myself at the ranch earlier than usual. I spot Sebastian near the main house.

"Is Austin around?" I ask, trying to sound nonchalant.

Sebastian's eyes twinkle with amusement. "Yes, the boss is at the back of the barn."

I nod my thanks and head that way, my heart beating a little faster with each step. I round the corner of the barn and there he is, his back to me as he works on fixing a piece of equipment.

"Good morning," I call out, startling him slightly.

Austin turns, a wrench in his hand and a smudge of grease on his cheek. "Hayley! You're here early."

I shrug, suddenly feeling a bit foolish. "Just thought I'd say good morning before I leave for work."

He sets down the wrench and walks over to me, wiping his hands on a rag. "Well, I'm glad you did. It's uh… always good to see you."

My heart leaps.

The drawl, the raw appeal.

There's a moment of silence, filled with unspoken words and growing tension. I find myself staring at the smudge on his cheek, fighting the urge to wipe it away.

"I, uh, I should get going," I stammer, breaking the moment. "Big day at the office."

Austin nods, his eyes never leaving mine. "Of course. Good luck today, lawyer."

As I walk back to my car, I can feel his gaze on me. And for the first time, I allow myself to admit that maybe, just maybe, I want something more.

Before I reach my car, I hear Austin's voice calling out. "Hey, Hayley! Wait up!"

I turn, my heart skipping a beat as he jogs towards me. "What's up?"

"I need to head into town too," he says, a bit breathless. "How about I drive you?"

I hesitate, gesturing towards my car. "But how would I get back after work?"

Austin's smile is smooth and confident. "I could easily drive you back if you want. It's no trouble at all."

I bite my lip, considering. "I don't know..."

"Come on," he coaxes. "It'll save gas. Think of the environment."

I can't help but laugh. "Playing the environmental card, huh?"

As we banter, I notice the ranch hands starting to gather, poorly concealing their interest in our conversation. Charles gives me a not-so-subtle thumbs up.

"Alright," I finally concede, my cheeks warm. "Let's go."

The drive into town is filled with easy conversation and shared laughter. As we pull up in front of my office, I find myself reluctant to leave.

"Thanks for the ride," I say, unbuckling my seatbelt.

Austin's eyes meet mine. "I'll be back as soon as you're done with work."

"I'll call you," I promise, stepping out of the truck.

As I walk towards my office, Mrs. Jenkins from the flower shop next door waves me over.

"Good morning, Hayley!" she chirps. "Was that Austin who dropped you off?"

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