Page 47 of Cowboy's Healing Heart

Krystal turns in my arms, her hand coming to rest over my heart. "What about you? What do you want, Shane?"

The question catches me off guard. I can't remember the last time someone asked me that. What do I want? Not what my family expects, not what the company needs. But what do I want?

"I..." I hesitate, then decide to share the idea that's been forming in my mind. "A tech lab."

Krystal's eyebrows raise. "A tech lab?"

I nod, warming to the subject. "Yeah. A place where I could work on developing new technologies. Sustainable energy solutions for rural areas. Automated systems to make ranching more efficient."

As I speak, I can see it clearly. A modern building, filled with cutting-edge equipment. A team of brilliant minds working together to solve real-world problems.

"I could invite veterans to come and learn new skills. A way to give back, you know?"

Krystal listens intently, asking questions that make me think deeper about the concept. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and I find myself getting excited about the possibilities.

"You should do it," she says, her eyes bright. "I bet you'd be amazing at it."

For a moment, I let myself believe it's possible. That I could walk away from Innoventis and build something of my own. Something meaningful in the country.

But I know my folks won't let that happen. One day, and it's nearly upon me, I'll have to set into that office as CEO. I've stretched out my break for almost four months.

It's only a matter of time.

I force a smile, pushing the thoughts aside. "Maybe someday," I say, not wanting to dampen the mood.

Krystal yawns, snuggling closer. "We should probably head back," she murmurs. "I'm starving."

I tighten my arms around her, not ready to let go of this moment. "Just a few more minutes," I plead softly.

She nods, her eyes drifting closed. I look back up at the stars, my mind racing. And I ask myself a question that could change everything: What if?

What if I tell Krystal everything? What if I could stop pretending I'm okay with just having her body?

"I want it all…" I whisper to the moon, the stars, and the Man upstairs. "I want them both."

Krystal's breathing evens out, sleep overtaking her.

Can I really demand them or nothing? Can I walk away from everything I've known? Do I have the right to drag Krystal and Ashanti into my complicated life?

I push the thoughts away, focusing on the warmth of Krystal's body against mine. For now, this is enough. This moment, under the vast expanse of stars, holding the woman who's slowly scaling my walls, she's causing me to want what I've never thought was possible for me.

A family.

I knew I'd have to get married.

But in my world, marriage doesn't mean love. It doesn't mean making love in the bed of a truck underneath the stars. It doesn't mean having Krystal.

But what if it did?

TEN

CONFESSIONS

KRYSTAL

I step into Art Alley,my hand in Shane's, and the explosion of color takes my breath away. Vibrant murals cover every inch of wall space, a riot of images and words that make my head spin.

This unique spot in downtown Rapid City is said to be a hidden gem, showcasing the creativity and spirit of the local arts community.

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