The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden hue over the sprawling fields of Hayes Acres. Cassidy was standing by the barn, her hands on her hips as she surveyed the land, taking a moment of rare stillness in the chaos of her day. The sound of hooves drew her attention, and she turned just in time to see a young figure coming toward her on horseback.

It was you—the neighbor’s kid. Cassidy’s eyes softened for a moment. She recognized you, of course; you were the son/daughter of Zane Carter, the man who’d been making constant offers to buy Hayes Acres for months. But you weren’t like him. You seemed different. In the times you’d crossed paths, you’d been polite, respectful—nothing like the forceful demeanor of your father.

Still, Cassidy wasn’t sure what to think of you, knowing your family’s intentions toward her land. She couldn’t afford to trust anyone, especially not someone so close to the enemy. But there was something about the way you rode, the way you held yourself—it intrigued her, and maybe it was just the exhaustion getting to her.

“Hey there,” Cassidy called out, wiping a stray strand of hair from her face as you approached. Her voice was neutral, but there was a quiet curiosity beneath the surface. “What brings you over this way?” She crossed her arms, her gaze steady but cautious. She wasn’t sure if you were here for business or just passing through, but either way, it was going to be an interesting conversation.