Page 40 of Hidden Memories

Kat would be trading caviar for ramen.

But I’ve never once thought she was in this life for money.

She’s untamed, moved by brushstrokes and wildflower meadows, drawn to the kind of beauty that can’t be bought. Sometimes when I watch her work—so lost in it she forgets the world exists—it’s like witnessing something sacred.

Besides the tattoo parlor, our only date has been this tree. A blanket. Stolen kisses. And somehow, it’s been enough.

But I want more.

I want to build something.

Not just for her, but for my family. My dad won’t be young forever. Our ranch back home has been through hell, and I don’t want him carrying that stress another damn day. I want to give him the peace he’s earned.

Because that’s what we do.

We’re cowboys, but we’re also firstgeneration. Our parents came here with nothing but calloused hands and a dream, and it’s on us to make good on that sacrifice.

And now? Now I have another reason to work my ass off.

Kat.

She has to choose this with her whole heart. Because it’s not just luxury she’d be leaving behind.

It’s her father.

And even when a parent is awful, some part of you still wants them to love you.

I shift against the tree and gather her up, wrapping her in my arms. The blanket shields us from the night, but she’s the only warmth I need.

She’s quiet, curled against my chest.

I tilt my head, studying her in the moonlight.

God, I love her.

And I’m scared. Because this? This is everything.

“Michi?” My heart is in my throat. “What do you want from me?”

Her breath stirs against my skin, but she doesn’t answer. Her eyes, wide and searching, hold a quiet war.

I cup her face, guiding her gaze to mine. “If you come here for pleasure, I’ll undress you.”

I drag my thumb over her lower lip, and she shivers.

“If you come here for romance, I’ll kiss you.”

Her breath stutters.

But this is more than that.

I press my forehead to hers. “If you come here to be alive… I’ll love you.”

Her blue eyes blaze, locking me in.

I swallow hard. “I want to be with you.” The words slip out, raw, unfiltered. “If you come with me, it won’tbe easy. It won’t be without sacrifices. But I will never let you down. I’ll take care of you. Do you want that?”

She takes a lifetime to answer.

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