Page 125 of Heartstrings & Horseshoes

“Before I give you the grand tour, there’s something I’d like to show you first.” He raises his eyebrows excitedly, and walks us through the living space, combined kitchen-dining room, to a mud room.

“There’s someone important waiting to see you.” Connor motions for me to go first through the back door.

The back patio opens to a paddock with a small stable big enough to fit two horses comfortably.

I walk slowly down the porch, through the gate into the paddock, quivering the entire way. I look to Connor for permission to keep going and he chuckles.

“Don’t keep ‘em waiting.”

My feet carry me to the expertly constructed stable. I open the man door and sink to the perfectly clean floor.

“Oh my god!” I cry, pouring my heart onto the ground, Connor rubbing my back soothingly, waiting for me to be ready.

He helps me to my feet, and I realize I’m not dreaming. This is real. Connor’s made every one of my dreams come true.

“Hey there, girl.” Hope’s velvet muzzle tickles my palm, searching for a treat.

Not taking my eyes from her, I ask, “How?”

“It was a team effort, really. Tanya witnessed you bond with Biscuit so deeply, she nearly offered to sell him to Reid for the program. But Reid had a better idea. He’d been keeping a close eye on you and Hope and saw something growing there. I told him how much you loved her, and we knew she belonged with you. It’s not every day someone meets their heart-horse, but you did the day you laid eyes on Hope,” he explains, and I try desperately to absorb every word.

“She’s mine?”

“She’s yours, baby.”

I don’t bother drying the tears anymore, rather letting them fall like drops of joy, christening this unforgettable moment.

“Welcome home, Hope. Wanna be my best girl?” I ask, lavishing love on her sleek face and down her neck.

She nickers, leaning into my touch, telling me she’s happy to be here too.

A soft snort leads me to the other stall housing a massive bay gelding waiting for a dose of attention.

The horse is a rich chestnut with a striking white blaze down the center of his face. He’s stunning. Somehow, he suits Connor perfectly.

“He’s a gentle giant. Came in with the last batch of rescues. Maybe he can join your program alongside Hope. Besides, I need a mount if I’m going to keep up with you, because you’re going to take over the world, baby.” His belief in me never ceases to amaze me.

“What’s his name?” I ask in awe.

“Rocket.” Connor laughs that deep laugh that warms my heart. “Which is hilarious considering the big guy won’t even trot without serious bribery.”

I launch into Connor’s unprepared arms, and he stumbles back, catching me and keeping us upright. I plant a grateful kiss on his lips, broken by the smile splitting my face.

“Thank you. For everything you’ve ever done for me. I love you more than the moon and the stars, Connor Hayes.”

“It’s been my honor. Nothing makes me happier than taking care of you. I love you more than the sun lights the sky, because baby, you’re even brighter.”

He wraps me in one of his incredible bear hugs around my middle and I yelp.

“Ouch!” Shit. I thought I could keep the secret longer than a few hours…

“What? What’s wrong?” Connor scrambles, trying to find the source of my pain. I wiggle out of his arms back onto my feet.

“It seems silly now, but I have a birthday surprise for you too.”

Connor frowns, waiting for me to explain. I unzip my jacket and shuck it off—his confusion only growing.

I lift my shirt, exposing my stomach. Connor drops to his knees, gripping me by the hips.