Page 71 of Falling Hard for the Billionaire Cowboy

I can't help but chuckle, and after a few back-and-forths – I'm finally able to successfully get away. I just know my mama's call will be coming up next, sooner or later.

Of course I want my family to meet Hayley, but I don't want her to get overwhelmed all at once- but I'm sure my family would like her immediately. "She's an amazing woman after all," I mutter, as I finally step out.

As I pull up to her house in my pickup truck, I see her step out onto the porch. She's wearing a darling sundress that flows gently in the breeze, and her smile lights up her face as she spots me.

"Hey there, cowboy," Hayley calls out as she walks towards the truck.

I hop out to greet her, tipping my hat. "Howdy, ma'am. Ready for a day of adventure?"

She laughs, a sound that makes my heart skip a beat. "With you? Alright – as long as you don't break the law."

"I'm a law-abiding citizen ma'am." I open the passenger door for her, and as she climbs in, I catch a whiff of her perfume – the same floral scent, that fits her so well.

"Don't worry, if you do break the law – I'll represent you in court."

"Well, I appreciate that," I chuckle. The drive to the road show is filled with easy conversation and stolen glances. And every chance I get, I reach out to grab her hand.

By the time we arrive, the fairgrounds are bustling. The scent of popcorn and cotton candy is everywhere, making it feel more fest-like. There's also music playing from speakers, followed by the sounds of laughter from different groups.

I offer Hayley my arm, and she takes it without hesitation.

"So, what's first on the agenda?" she asks, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"How about we check out the livestock competition?" I suggest, knowing she's never been to one before.

As we make our way through the crowd, I notice people glancing our way and whispering. It doesn't take long for Russell to spot us.

"Well, well, well," he drawls, sauntering over with a knowing grin. "If it isn't Austin and the lovely Hayley. You two sure make a handsome couple."

I feel the tips of my ears heat up, but Hayley just smiles and extends her hand to Russell. "Nice to meet you. I take it that you're a friend of Austin's?"

Russell shakes her hand, his grin widening. "And business partner. Known this cowpoke since the year he got to Redstone. And let me tell you, Mrs. Beatrice is gonna have a field day when she hears about this."

I groan inwardly. Mrs. Beatrice would probably scold me for not telling her first. And I know by sundown, everyone in a fifty-mile radius will know about Hayley and me.

"Come on, Russ," I say, trying to steer Hayley away. "We're just here to enjoy the show."

Russell winks at us. "Sure, sure. You two lovebirds have fun now. And Hayley, don't let this one get away. He's a keeper."

As we walk away, Hayley leans close. "So, I'm guessing the cat's out of the bag about us dating?"

I squeeze her hand gently. "Looks like it. Is that okay with you?"

She nods, her smile soft and reassuring. "More than okay."

The rest of the day flies by in a whirlwind of activities. We watch the livestock competitions, try our hand at some carnival games, and sample way too much fair food. Throughout it all, I find myself constantly reaching for Hayley's hand, just enjoying the warmth of her touch.

As the sun begins to set, we make our way to the car show.

"I've been waiting for the new Mustang. This thing is a beast!"

"I'm thinking of trading in my Civic for the new Accord. Thoughts?"

"What's the 0-60 on this Corvette?"

"How many miles do you drive annually? This hybrid might be perfect."

"Check out the exhaust on this Lamborghini!"

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