Page 84 of Saddle and Bound

"Of course, princess," I respond, gently caressing her cheek. "I'd love that."

As we get up and head toward the stables, memories of that day flood my mind. I remember how the scent of her hair had intoxicated me, how her body had fit perfectly against mine as we rode together. It had been a magical moment, one of those times when I was completely enchanted by her. Riding with Rosie had been enjoyable. Perhaps a bit too enjoyable. The sensation of her body pressed against mine, her hands gripping me... it had awakened rather strong feelings. Feelings that return just thinking about it. Well, fortunately now I can satisfy them.

But first, I should focus on her lessons. Now I should try to let her ride a bit on her own. So she can better understand how to handle herself. As I saddle the horse for Rosie, I feel a twinge of worry. The idea of her riding alone terrifies me. The memories of my father's accident are still vivid in my mind, a wound that's never fully healed.

But I look at Rosie, see the excitement in her eyes, the determination in her smile, and I know I can't let my fears limit her. I can't clip this wonderful woman's wings because of my past traumas.

"Ready?" I ask, offering my hand to help her mount. Rosie nods enthusiastically, taking my hand. I lift her gently, admiring how she settles into the saddle with increasing grace.

"Remember," I tell her, my voice a mix of affection and concern, "keep a firm grip on the reins, but not too tight. Let the horse feel your confidence." Rosie nods, focusing on my words. I see the determination in her eyes, the desire to learn, to be part of my world. My heart swells with love for her. As I guide her through the basic steps, I can't help thinking how fortunate I am. Rosie is a wonderful dream that seems too good to be true.

"You're doing great," I encourage her, watching her move with increasing confidence. I try to suppress part of what I'm feeling because I'm currently overwhelmed by a mixture of pride and concern growing inside me. Her confidence increases with every step, and I can't help but admire her. She's determined, brave, and making remarkable progress. But it scares me.

Stop it, Alex. I mentally scold myself. This is a beautiful moment between us, and I can't let panic take over.

And I can't be so hypocritical as to ruin Rosie's experience. Not when I'm in the saddle every day, enjoying every moment with my beloved horses. She doesn't need to know anything about this new anxiety. She should just enjoy the journey and love every single moment. "Want to try going a bit faster?" I ask, trying to mask my apprehension with an encouraging smile. Rosie nods enthusiastically. "Yes, please!"

I give her some instructions on how to gently urge the horse into a light trot. As I watch her increase the pace, my heart beats faster. Part of me wants to run alongside her, ready to catch her if she falls. But I know I have to let her do this on her own. Rosie is a strong woman and has always been independent, and I don't want to be an overbearing boyfriend.

Rosie laughs with joy as the horse speeds up, her hair waving in the wind like a copper flag. She's beautiful, free, radiant. In that moment, I realize I'm witnessing something special: Rosie falling in love with this world just as much as I'm in love with her. "You're doing amazing, princess!" I shout, unable to contain my enthusiasm.

After a few laps, Rosie slows the horse and approaches me, her face flushed with excitement and effort.

"That was incredible, Alex!" she exclaims, her eyes sparkling. "I feel... alive!" Her words strike me deeply. I understand exactly what she means. It's the same feeling I get every time I mount up, the same freedom, the same sense of connection with nature.

"I'm so proud of you, Rosie," I tell her, helping her dismount. As soon as her feet touch the ground, I wrap her in my arms, lifting her and spinning her around. Her laughter fills the air, the sweetest sound I've ever heard. When I set her down, our eyes meet. There's a new light in hers, a spark of understanding and sharing that wasn't there before. In that moment, I feel we've grown even closer, that we've shared something deep and meaningful.

We kiss sweetly, the taste of joy and love on our lips. When we part, Rosie turns to the horse, affectionately stroking its muzzle. "Do you think one day I could have a horse of my own?" she asks, looking at me hopefully. The question catches me by surprise, but it also fills me with joy.

"Of course, my love," I respond, feeling my heart swell with love.

Chapter 53

Rosie

Life at the ranch has settled into a gentle rhythm. Each morning, I rise with the sun and find myself drawn either to the desk Alex thoughtfully positioned by the picture window, or to the old wooden rocker on the porch. In both spots, my fingers find their way across the keyboard as if guided by an unseen hand, weaving tales of endless prairies, snow-capped peaks, and sunsets that paint the sky in impossible colors. My romance unfolds like a love letter to this place that has become my home, to this untamed landscape that has embraced me, and most of all, to the cowboy who has stolen my heart.

The characters on the page come to life, reflecting fragments of the people I’ve met here. Above all, though, the male protagonist is a clear tribute to Alex—strong, gentle, and big-hearted. Inspiration seems to flow effortlessly, whether I’m gazing at the mountains on the horizon through the window or breathing in the fresh morning air on the porch.Our afternoons belong to us alone. Together, Alex and I breathe life into the cabin, transforming it day by day into a haven that speaks of both our souls - his rugged charm mingling with my contemporary touches until every corner tells our story.

Between these cherished moments, we throw ourselves into the joyful chaos of Dad and Maria's wedding preparations. My heart swells watching them pore over every detail, their eyes bright with anticipation. Seeing Dad radiate such happiness, and finding a true friend in Maria, feels like an unexpected gift.

Then there are my riding lessons, each one bringing me closer to this wild, beautiful world I'm learning to call my own.

Yet beneath this tapestry of contentment, an undercurrent of disquiet tugs at me. I still haven't submitted my resignation. Each time I contemplate it, anxiety creeps in like morning frost. Something feels off-kilter, as though I'm overlooking a crucial detail. This nameless fear troubles me more than I care to admit.

Today finds me at the window before dawn, watching nature's daily masterpiece unfold as the sun crests the mountains, setting the sky ablaze with coral and gold. It's a sight that usually fills me with wonder, but today my thoughts cast long shadows.

I hear Alex's familiar tread behind me, then feel the warm strength of his arms encircling my waist. His presence wraps around me like a favorite blanket, steady and sure.

"Morning, princess," he whispers, sleep still roughening his voice.

His lips find my skin - feather-light kisses trailing from shoulder to neck to cheek. Each kiss is like a caress, sweet and loving. I melt into his embrace, feeling my worries begin to loosen their hold.

But Alex knows me too well. He senses something's wrong. "Rosie," he says softly, turning me in his arms to look into my eyes. "What's wrong? You've seemed worried for days." He furrows his brows and studies me with those eyes capable of seeing into my soul, then adds worriedly, "Did I do something wrong?”

My heart constricts at his words. This man, who has shown me nothing but unwavering devotion, somehow still doubts his worth.

I shake my head emphatically and burrow deeper into his embrace.

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