Page 66 of Falling Hard for the Billionaire Cowboy

My heart is beating even faster – I didn't think that was possible in this moment, but here I am.

"I missed you too," Austin adds.

"Oh..." I breathe out, feeling my face turn completely red. I know I have said this before, but - my heart is pounding so hard I'm sure he must be able to hear it.

For a moment, we just stand there, gazing at each other. The air between us feels charged, filled with unspoken words and emotions.

Finally, Austin breaks the silence. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything," he says, gesturing at my pajamas.

I glance down at my duck-covered legs and let out a nervous laugh. "Oh, um, no. I was just... thinking about ordering dinner, actually."

"Dinner?" Austin's eyebrows rise. "It's nearly 10 PM, Hayley."

I blink in surprise. "Is it really? I guess I lost track of time at work."

He frowns slightly, concern evident in his expression. "Have you eaten anything today?"

"Does coffee count?" I joke weakly.

Austin shakes his head, before glancing down at his watch. "Can I come in?" he asks. "I don't have much time, but I couldn't... I couldn't stay away after your message."

I nod dumbly, stepping aside to let him pass.

"I can't believe you came all this way," I say, nervously tucking a stray hair behind my ear as I close the door. "What about what you had to do outside the country?"

"Work can wait, this was more important," he replies.

I take in a shaky breath as Austin spills his heart out.

I'm nervous.

Happy

Giddy

Cheesy…

It's like feeling all shades of happiness all at once.

I don't know where the burst of courage comes from, but I immediately step forward, my thoughts spilling out. "Austin," I say, taking a step toward him. "I've been thinking about you too. About us. And I-"

The loud sound of his ringing tone startles me a bit, causing me to pause.

Are you sure? It seems import-

"Trust me Hayley, nothing is more important than this."

'This man – he sure knows how to charm a woman without doing anything,' I think.

Ok, that's it – I'm letting my guts out. Before I can chicken out, I begin to speak. "I just, I feel the same way, Austin. When you were gone, I kept thinking about the moments we spent together. The way you make me feel…"

I don't stop, not even when he comes closer.

"And so, yes – I like you Austin," I confirm. It feels like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders. And you could say we have a moment.

Everything is going well until his phone rings again.

"I have to take this," he apologizes.

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