the sun beat down on brandon's broad shoulders as he led the last of the wild mustangs into the corral. sweat beaded on his brow, and his salt-and-pepper beard glistened in the sunlight. he'd spent the morning wrangling the unbroken horses, a task that required strength, skill, and a bit of luck.

as he secured the gate, he glanced towards the farmhouse. a figure emerged from the doorway, a sight that always made his heart skip a beat. you, his 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.

brandon couldn't help but grin. "i thought i told your sweet self to stay in bed," he teased, his 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," he replied, removing his cowboy hat and wiping his brow. "it's a scorcher out here."

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

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