Caleb nods enthusiastically before letting me go, and running over to Ziggy’s pen to play with him.
I glance over at Jensen standing nearby, his gaze sweeping over me, taking in every inch.
“You’re so beautiful,” he murmurs.
Warmth rushes to my cheeks as I tuck a piece of hair behind my ear. “Thank you. I love the dress—it fits perfectly.”
“The dress is very nice, but it’s you that makes it shine,” he says, stepping closer. “I have to take Lucky back to the barn and grab a shower. Then it’s date night.”
“You’re always full of surprises, aren’t you?”
He closes the remaining distance between us.
“Only the good kind,” he says, pressing a kiss to my lips.
“Eww,” Caleb groans. “Kissing is gross. Right, Ziggy?”
The goat bleats in agreement before looking our way. When he notices Jensen, he freezes, his legs locking straight before toppling over with a dramatic flop.
We all burst out laughing, Jensen included. I just hope Ziggy never stops fainting at the sight of him—it’s comedy gold.
I couldn’t be happier, and looking ahead, it’s easy to see why—a swooning goat, Caleb’s infectious giggles, and the urban cowboy who stole my heart. Nothing could be better than this.
After Jensen returned Lucky to the barn and got ready himself, we dropped Caleb off at Mama Julie’s. She was already waiting on the porch, subtly blocking the front door, which makes me think she was in on whatever Jensen had planned. My curiosity grew as he led me around back, through the apple orchard behind the ranch house.
“You’re really not going to tell me where we’re going?” I ask as we weave through another row of trees.
Jensen squeezes my hand, a grin tugging at his lips. “No, but at least I left the blindfold at home tonight.”
“Oh, I moved it to the drawer by our bed,” I respond, playing it cool.
He stares at me, eyes wide. “Keep talking like that, woman, and I’ll throw you over my shoulder and take you home.”
“It’ll be worth the wait,” I say with a mischievous smile.
We finally come to a stop when we reach a small clearing. A translucent canopy tent stands beneath the fading sun, the distant mountains rising behind it like a painted backdrop. A rustic wooden table is set for two, adorned with flickering candles and fresh greenery, and two plush chairs are positioned next to each other. Nearby is a smaller table with a food warmer and miniature bottles of whiskey and water.
I spin in a slow circle, soaking in every detail. “Oh my god, this is incredible.”
“Urban cowboy had help.” I turn toward the house when I hear Charlie’s voice, to see her approaching with a covered plate, Birdie right behind her with another.
I narrow my eyes playfully. “Sothisis why you two were acting suspicious when I texted you earlier.”
“We were a little busy elbow-deep in decorations and making potato salad,” Birdie says, setting her plate on the warmer.
I watch as my friends light the last few candles, putting the finishing touches on the romantic setup. I’m incredibly lucky to have their support. Their sincere desire for my happiness is overwhelming, particularly when they went all out after Jensen asked them to be involved tonight. It’s like he knew exactly how much it would mean to me.
“Looks like our fairy god-matchmaker duties are complete.Don’t have too much fun, you two,” Charlie says, shooting me a smirk as she passes.
When Birdie walks by, she gives my arm a gentle squeeze. “You’ve got yourself a good man.”
I glance at Jensen, smiling. “I really do.”
“Appreciate the backup,” Jensen says to them with a grin.
“Love you both!” I add, blowing Charlie and Birdie kisses as we all burst into laughter before they turn and head toward the ranch house.
Once they’re out of sight, I wind my arms around Jensen’s neck, tilting my head to kiss him.