Page 82 of Falling Hard for the Billionaire Cowboy

"No," I say, looking up at him. "Home. Redstone. The ranch, the dogs, the cottage, the gossip, the warmth, the flowers, the trees, the ranch hands. You. That's home.”

He smiles, pressing a kiss on my forehead. "Then let's go home."

As we walk hand in hand towards my room to pack, I realize that home isn't just a place. It's wherever Austin is, whether that's a luxury penthouse or a small ranch in Redstone.

We have a lot to figure out, but we'll do it together. And that's all that matters.

And if I am to be both a lawyer and a billionaire's wife – then so be it. There’s worse, I chuckle. And I’m going to love every minute of it.

But when I see him pulling me onto the roof and toward his waiting helicopter, I realize that “love” may be a strong word for the billionaire stuff! With a deep breath and Austin’s strong arm around me tightly, I realize that up, up, up, up is where our life is headed. And I’m so very happy.

EPILOGUE

AUSTIN

Two years ago, if you had told me I'd be this happy – all I could do would be to imagine.

But now, I live that reality.

A year has passed since the day I ran after Hayley, and today, my heart is full of joy. It's our wedding day, and I can hardly believe it's real.

The old barn has been transformed into a rustic wedding hall, and almost the entire town is present – from the cops to the florist, to the nurses, my business partners, Hayley's clients, our parents… each and every one of them is here to share in our excitement.

In the groom’s room with the guys busy on other preparations, I pull up my guitar to calm my nerves, and soon it’s time to begin. With one last going-over, my guys give me the go-ahead to follow them. They move to the altar but leave me at the entrance.

I stand greeting guests as they arrive. Russell is the first to approach me, wearing a smug expression. "Well, look at you!" he exclaims, clapping me on the shoulder. "Remember the day I delivered the horses? You said the lady business wasn't true. I bet you want to eat your own words."

I laugh, adjusting my bolo tie. "You're right. I should have snagged her up earlier."

Sebastian and his wife are next in line. His usually gruff demeanor has softened for the occasion. "Boss," he says, shaking my hand firmly. "You picked a good one. Hayley's a keeper."

"Don't I know it," I reply, unable to keep the smile off my face. I nod to his wife and then hug him, as far out of character as it could ever be.

All the rest of the ranch hands follow, each offering their congratulations. Noah, is the only one openly crying, and he runs to hug me. "Boss I’ll never forget you. I'll always support you and Ms. Hayley." He sniffles. "Come on fireman, don't slobber over the boss." One of the ranch hands teases, pulling him away.

Mrs. Beatrice bustles up next, her hat adorned with an enormous floral arrangement. "Oh, Austin dear," she gushes, dabbing at her eyes with a pink handkerchief, "what a lovely day for a wedding! I always knew you and Hayley were meant to be."

I bite back a chuckle, remembering how she'd been the first to spread the news of our relationship around town. "Thank you, Mrs. Beatrice. We're glad you could make it."

Mrs. Jenkins, the florist, appears at my elbow, a gentle smile on her face. "Austin," she says warmly, "I've never seen you look so happy. The flowers you chose are beautiful, aren't they?"

I nod, gazing at the wildflower arrangements she'd crafted for us. "They're perfect, Mrs. Jenkins. I know that Hayley will love them too. Thank you for everything."

My mother, Jenny, and Sarah come to hug me; mom crying, of course. It’s a wonderful moment with them and I am so very grateful at how much they love and accept Hayley.

Suddenly, the soft murmur of conversation dies down as the first notes of the organ fill the air and my family and other guests move to take their seats. I head to the altar. My heart leaps into my throat as the barn doors swing open, revealing Hayley.

I feel a stream of sweat roll down my back, tremors climbing over my hands.

This is it…

Am I good enough for her?

Will I be able to make her happy?

Please… I'll do anything to be with her.

Then I see her…

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