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No matter what.

“Now, when do I get to decorate this place?” she says, turning back toward the house.

“You’re not sick of renovating houses yet?”

“Nope,” she says, turning back to me and holding out a hand. “I think you deserve to have a home that’s warm and cozy.” Her eyes go wide. “You can get a dog! And a horse!” She lets out a content sigh. “Think of all the new memories we get to make!”

We start walking toward the house, and I bypass the front door in favor of the back porch. The moment she sees the two wooden Adirondack chairs facing the stunning view, I take a mental photograph, pretty sure it’s a memory I’ll keep for the rest of my days.

The memory of the moment that finally feels like home.

THE END

Epilogue

Hattie

Two weeks later

To: Hattie@copperridgelodge

From: Kate.Davidson@BrainyGirlStudios

Re: Potential film shoot? {Urgent}

Miss Holbrook,

My name is Kate Davidson—I hope it’s okay that I’m reaching out. I found your ranch through social media (which is amazing, btw). The videos of your brother’s wedding certainly made an impression!

I’ll cut to the chase . . . I’m directing a Christmas movie set on a ranch that’s very close to my heart. It took me years to workshop the script and get it greenlit, and we’re set to start filming in just a few weeks.

Unfortunately, I found out yesterday that the location we had lined up is no longer able to accommodate us. We’re a small crew, but there are a few notable names attached to the film, and it’s imperative we stay on schedule. I’m looking to film during the holiday season because I want the most authentic experience possible.

My assistant researched your ranch and the town of Silverwood, and we think this location could work if you’re open to renting the lodge and grounds to us for two full months. I realize we’ll need permits and permission—we’re working on that—but we wanted to check with you before we move on securing accommodations elsewhere.

We’d also love to hire a film consultant to help train our leads as it pertains to handling horses. Someone who already works the ranch, maybe? Both actors need to be comfortable around animals and look natural riding them, grooming them, tacking them, etc.

I understand this is a big ask. You may already have bookings. However, if it’s feasible, it could be exactly what we’re looking for.

Please get back to me at your convenience.

The Lodge at Copper Ridge looks like it would be the perfect setting for a cozy holiday romance movie, and I’m hopeful we can come to an agreement.

Best,

Kate

Iread the email.

Then I read it again an additional three times.

Finn and Raya’s photographers also shot video of the entire event, and because he’s kind of a big deal, they put it out days after the wedding. It got a lot of attention online, largely thanks to a repost by Finn’s team, the Chicago Comets, and Finn was sure to tag my brand-new social media account.

I’ve been fielding inquiries ever since . . . but this one?

This one feels too good to be true.

I do a bit of research and find that Kate, her company, and the movie are legit. It’s happening.