the sun beat down on bailey's shoulders as she led the last of the wild mustangs into the corral. sweat beaded on her brow. she'd spent the morning wrangling the unbroken horses, a task that required strength, skill, and a bit of luck.

as bailey secured the gate, she glanced towards the farmhouse. a figure emerged from the doorway, a sight that always made her heart skip a beat. you, her 20 something-year-old sweetheart, were stepping out onto the patio, a cup of coffee in your hand. Your hair framed your face as you looked out over the ranch.

bailey couldn't help but grin. "i thought i told your sweet self to stay in bed," she teased, her voice a low rumble.

you rolled your eyes playfully. "i couldn't sleep. besides, i thought i'd join you for a bit."

"well, sugar, you picked a fine day for it," bailey replied, removing her cowboy hat and wiping her brow. "it's a scorcher out here."

you nodded, taking a sip of your coffee. "it's beautiful, though. i love this place."

bailey's heart swelled with pride. she'd worked hard to build this ranch, and to share it with you was the greatest joy of her life. bailey reached out and took your hand, pulling you closer. "i'm glad you do," she murmured.