Page 59 of Wrangled Love

They both grew up in Bluebell and have been together since high school. Their lives haven’t been easy, but they’ve built a lasting love that’s weathered every storm and only grown stronger over the years.

“We’re going to head back to the ranch now,” Mama Julie says. “Our eggs in the incubator were starting to pip before we left, so come morning, we should have a new brood of fluffballs chirping their little hearts out.”

Yesterday, I took Caleb to check on the eggs, and he could barely contain his excitement when I mentioned that the chicks would hatch soon.

“How would you like to spend the night at the ranch house and be the first to check on them tomorrow?” Julie asks him.

Caleb nods enthusiastically, looking at Jensen for permission.

He runs a hand through his hair, and I can sense his hesitation. This would be the first time he’d be away from Caleb overnight, even if it’s just up the road.

“I guess that would be alright,” he finally answers. “But his pajamas and the dinosaur he sleeps with are at the cottage.”

Julie waves him off like that’s no big deal. “We’ll stop by and grab them on the way home.” She pulls a wet wipe from her purse,kneeling beside Caleb. “Let’s get you cleaned up, and we’ll be on our way. We don’t want to miss any of the action if any of the chicks decide to make an early entrance.” He squirms but doesn’t complain while she cleans his face and hands, tossing the used wipe in the trash. “Don’t forget to tell your dad and Briar goodbye.”

He darts over, wrapping his arms around my neck, and I’m quick to return his embrace.

“Have fun, little man. We’ll see you in the morning,” I whisper in his ear.

Next, he gives his dad a big hug. Once he leans back, Jensen pushes Caleb’s hair from his face and kisses his forehead. “Love you, buddy. We’re only a phone call away, okay?”

Caleb nods before taking Julie’s outstretched hand.

Pops tips his hat. “See you in the morning.”

“Yeah, have fun, you two,” Julie adds, glancing between Jensen and me like she knows more than she lets on.

As they walk away, disappearing out of view, Jensen sighs. “Why does it feel like I’m watching my son leave for good?” he asks, his voice tinged with uncertainty. “I should be happy he’s coming out of his shell, but part of me can’t shake the worry about not being there if he needs me.”

I place my hand in his, intertwining our fingers. “Mama Julie and Pops will take good care of him, and we’ll only be five minutes away if something comes up later.”

Jensen lets out a long breath. “You’re right. He’ll be fine.” The reassurance seems more for his benefit than for mine.

He tightens his grip on my hand, and I don’t miss the sideways glances from those passing by. With half of Bluebell here, it won’t take long for word to spread that, just days after Jensen interrupted my date at the diner, I’m here holding hands with him. Let them talk. At least now, it’s not speculation.

“Should we head out too?” I ask.

As much as I’d like to stay, if he’d rather go back to the cottage to be available in case Caleb needs us, I understand.

Jensen hums, rubbing his chin. “If you’re game, we can stay a while longer. There are still plenty of rides we haven’t gone on yet.”

I smile. “What ride did you have in mind?”

“We should do the Ferris wheel. It’ll be dusk soon, and the view from the top will be incredible.”

My face blanches as I let out an awkward laugh. “Figures you’d pick the one ride I wish didn’t exist.”

“Are you afraid of heights?”

I shake my head. “I don’t like the idea of hanging, suspended in the air.”

“So, you must be afraid of the Zipper too?”

“Actually, no. That one’s fine because there’s a cageandI’m strapped in. On the Ferris wheel, you’re free-floating in a metal box, praying it doesn’t tip over.” I playfully swat Jensen on the arm when he stifles a chuckle. “I didn’t say it was rational.”

He tips his head as he studies me. “A ride in the sky with me might just surprise you. I’d make it worth every second.” His tone carries a double meaning that sparks my curiosity.

“That’s a bold claim. Hope you’re prepared to back it up.”

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