Page 78 of Captured By the Billionaire Cowboy
Now Ciara walked into an open field laced with the scent of magnolias. The early morning sun was shining in the cerulean sky, the air was fragrant and a comfortable breeze rustled the trees. The horses seemed extra active and playful, as if they could sense the excitement.
She made her way to the paddock. Even though the festivities weren’t due to start for hours, the first vendors were already arriving, setting up bounce houses, constructing food stands and erecting pavilions. She would start her day as she always did – checking on the animals.
“Hi Frank!” Ciara waved to her uncail, who was observing the horses with a practiced eye. “How is everyone?”
Frank grinned a welcome. “Pretty good. The Thoroughbred we were watching has improved, and the others are acclimatingwell. Dr. Saunders made a list of horses he believes are ready for adoption, and I have the most updated information.”
“Perfect.” Ciara leaned against the fence, smiling as a pretty mare approached, preening for attention. She rubbed the velvety fur. “People are already arriving, so I’m making my rounds. Let me know if you need anything.”
She left the horses in Frank’s capable hands, then waved at some early arriving volunteers as she headed toward the lodgings for the bed and breakfast. In the distance, Teara rushed around the wraparound porch, hanging clay flowerpots overfilled with cascading vines of violet and azure. She disappeared into the building, and Ciara followed. Then…
She stopped and stared.
Breathtaking.No other word could describe the magnificent chamber decorated in the warm colors of the Irish sunset. Gilded highlights etched intricate designs on cherry wood tables, with stained glass lamps glowing in the dappled sunlight streaming through lace curtains. Handmade quilts in golden hues embellished the overstuffed couches, their colors so brilliant they seemed lit from within. Rich burgundy rugs provided soft cushioning under her feet, as soft as a cloud, and just as light.
Ciara stopped a dozen times as she strolled through the stunning hallway. She’d seen the furnishings in the catalogs before Teara purchased them, had approved them all, yet she’d never imagined a finished product this beautiful.
“Do you like it?”
Ciara jumped as Teara came behind her with silent steps. She seemed hesitant, her soft yellow dress swishing around her. She wore matching ballet flats, and her hair was pulled back in a severe manner.
“No,” Ciara said honestly.
Teara’s face fell.
“Iloveit.”
Teara smiled softly, her eyes bright with satisfaction. “We did most of it in the last twenty-four hours. We had to wait for the paint to dry before adding the finishing touches.”
Was Teara challenging Rowan for the most hours worked? She had to take care of herself, too. “You did sleep yesterday, didn’t you?”
Teara’s cheeks tinged pink. “I got an hour or two. But that’s okay,” she added swiftly, raising a hand against Ciara’s impending protest. “I wanted it to be perfect.”
“It is beyond perfect.” Ciara reached to touch Teara’s arm, pulled back when the woman flinched. She hid a frown. “You did an amazing job. I’ll send the guests straight in as they arrive.” She tamped down the urge to hug her, settled for a nod.
Teara smiled warmly. “I’ll be waiting.”
Ciara pivoted and left the building, entering the rapidly-filling yard. Dozens of people strode through the open area, casting an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. Her grin widened at several people who definitely wouldn’t be averse to hugs. Frank, Grandma Leigh and Chelsea strolled up the walkway, followed by a happily skipping Shannon.
“Hi honey!” Grandma Leigh came in for that hug immediately, then Shannon joined in with a giggle. Behind them, Chelsea watched with a smile. Dressed smartly in a cream blouse and black trousers, she carried her ever-present laptop.
Rumbling sounded as several large trucks drove into the parking lot, followed by half a dozen cars. Ciara rubbed her hands together. “I can’t believe the grand opening is finally here. I hope we’re ready.”
“Don’t worry.” Grandma Leigh patted her back. “The hard part was rescuing the horses. Today will be great.”
“And we’re here to help,” Chelsea added.
“I appreciate that.” Ciara squeezed Leigh’s hand. Unfortunately, Frank would be her only family present today.Her parents were in America celebrating a close friend’s wedding, and Sophia had taken a large catering order, substantial enough to boost her fledgling business. She’d offered to turn it down, but Ciara couldn’t let her sister give up such a rare opportunity. None of her other relatives were close enough to attend on such short notice, but they showed great enthusiasm at Ciara’s invitation to visit in the future.
“Will you look at that?” Frank pointed to something behind her.
Ciara turned, blinked. “Sophia?”
No matter how many times she closed and opened her eyes, her sister was still there. Wearing a lavender dress and a smile as bright as the impending day, she held her arms out wide. “Surprise!”
Ciara raced forward and embraced the sister who would always be her best friend. She smelled like sunshine, sugar and love. “I can’t believe you’re here.” She hugged her again, as best she could around a huge white basket. She peeked down through the quilted cover to the pink frosted cupcakes underneath. “And with your famous cupcakes, too!”
As everyone welcomed Sophia with wide smiles and gracious words, Ciara pulled back. “What are you doing here? What about your big contract?”
