Page 107 of Wrangled Love

“Thanks for doing this.”

“Anything for you, sugar,” he says with a warm smile. “Why don’t we sit down and enjoy the beautiful view?” He motions to the mountains and setting sun.

He pulls out a chair for me, and takes the seat beside me. “Before we eat, there’s something I want to talk to you about.”

I let out a playful gasp. “Uh-oh. Sounds serious.”

Jensen clears his throat, and pulls a folded piece of paper from his front pocket. He smooths it out and places it on the table in front of me. It appears to be a sketch, covered in lines and measurements.

My brows knit together. “What’s this?”

“Plans for your children’s sanctuary,” he says, his lips twitching with excitement. “I had a few different layouts drawn up so you’d have options, but if none of them are what you envisioned, we can have something new designed.”

I barely process what he’s saying. My mind stuck on the first part of his response.

“Sorry. I don’t understand.” My voice falters, thick with emotion.

“You’ve had this dream for years, always putting it on the backburner because you thought you had to do it alone.” Hetakes my hand in his, rubbing my palm with his thumb. “You’re not alone anymore, sugar. Having the privilege to see firsthand the difference you’ve made in Caleb’s life made me realize that every child deserves someone like you—someone who’s willing to advocate for them and honor their individuality.” He pauses, giving my hand a gentle squeeze. “You have the ability to make a positive impact on countless kids who’ve been overlooked or misunderstood, and now, you finally have the chance to turn that gift into a safe space for those who need it.”

My stomach flutters with anticipation as I use my free hand to trace the plans, trailing my finger along the lines on the paper. “These are amazing, but it might be a while before I can move forward. I just don’t have the funds or time right now,” I say with a sigh.

It pains me to admit it, but I haven’t saved enough to start the project, and the little free time I have now will go toward finally finishing the cottage renovations.

“You don’t have to do this alone,” Jensen says, repeating his words from earlier. “I want to help.”

“Are you really ready to walk away from the corporate world?”

“I accomplished what I set out to do in New York years ago—built a company I’m proud of. But even before you and Caleb came into my life, something about my career felt off. The rush of proving people wrong faded, and my routine became predictable.” He straightens in his chair, adjusting his hands to rest on my hips. “I’m ready for a new chapter—one that centers around something far more important than anything I ever achieved at DataLock Systems: you and Caleb. That starts with helping you bring your dreams to life.”

A warmth spreads through my chest. “Thank you for wanting to help but what if I mess it all up? I have no clue how to runa nonprofit. The whole process is overwhelming, and I think that’s why it’s taken me this long to get started.”

Admittedly, having someone with experience and a genuine interest in my passions to guide me through the process would make the journey less intimidating and turn the uncertainty into an adventure we can share together.

Jensen’s expression brightens. “You’re in luck because when it comes to the business logistics, I’ve got you covered. I’m committed to making sure your vision comes to life, whatever it takes. Plus, if you can spare me now and then, Heath could use an extra hand on the ranch. I’ve enjoyed helping him and Walker more than I expected.”

“Might do you some good. Maybe they’ll teach you the difference between a non-adjustable wrench and an adjustable one,” I tease with a chuckle. “Especially if you’re planning to help me finish renovating the cottage, too.”

“That’s what I have you for. We’re the perfect match.” He reaches over, running a finger along the curve of my jaw. “We’ll renovate the cottage together, and with the sanctuary, I’ll be here every step of the way. But it’s yours. You’ll always have the final say, sugar.”

I tilt my head, studying him. “Does that make me your boss?”

“You accept my help, and I’ll gladly take your orders.”

I nod. “I could get used to that.”

A few months ago, I would have struggled to accept Jensen’s help. But watching him return to Bluebell—a place he swore he’d never set foot in again—because it was the best decision for Caleb has taught me an important lesson: accepting support from the people who love you most isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a strength.

My summer began like any other on the ranch, centered on work and moving closer to my dream of opening a children’ssanctuary. Then Jensen and Caleb came to town, turning my world upside down in the best way possible. They’ve taught me that the greatest gifts often come when you least expect them, and I’ll never take it for granted that I now have a family of my own—filling my days with love and purpose I wouldn’t trade for anything.

I glance over at Jensen, his eyes filled with promise. “From here on out, it’s you, me, and Caleb against the world.”

“Nothing could be better,” I murmur. “Now, shut up and kiss me, cowboy.”

Eight Months Later

The wind carries the scent of pine and damp earth as we ride the worn trail. The mountain peaks in the distance still have a dusting of snow, but here in the valley, spring is already underway—wildflowers dot the ground and birdsong fills the air.

Briar leads the way, her hair loose beneath her hat, catching the sun whenever she glances back at Caleb and me. We’re sharing a horse with him perched in front, my arm wrapped around his middle as he holds the saddle horn. I’ve ridden this path countless times, and it’s always better when we’re together.

---