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“I think we have a wrap,” Bentley grumbled. “Did not see that one coming.”
“I know,” Randy finally acknowledged. “I thought Roxie would find a way to ease us into something. I don’t know. It was probably dumb in hindsight. I did think that it would make for some good filming out here in Wyoming.”
“Roxie wasn’t the worst idea,” Easton said, as I nearly collapsed with relief at the goofy grin spreading across his face. “I guess we should hear what she came up with, and then maybe you and I need to get a long lunch.”
Randy chuckled. “I think that would be a good idea,” he said, turning to me. “The floor is all yours.”
“Not sure if this sales pitch will be able to overshadow that, but I’ll give it a shot,” I said, squaring my shoulders and digging in.
Chapter 8
(Easton)
______
Fourteen months later
I’ve just wrapped up my tenth interview of the day. I’m shocked at how many stations, online blogs, and others showed up for the new series launch. It was playing on a Discovery channel to some amazing reviews. I was excited by the whole team’s reaction to the screening. Everyone agreed on how amazing this place looks on film.
It had been a long grueling year between shoot schedules, getting to know my brother Randy outside the capacity of a teammate in the military, and my blossoming relationship with Roxie. She was still going back and forth to LA, and we’d never really had “the talk” about where this might end up. Though, we had baptized most of the mountain overlooks, hot tub, and rooms in my house during her visits. The woman was insatiable, and I had to admit that I was her number one fan. This visit was definitely the time to lay down the law and make her decide what this thing between us was going to be.
I’d made my decision when in town a few months back. The jewelry store had not been on my radar that day, but something made me stop. I found the most unique, non-diamond engagement ring that just screamed Roxie. I was a traditionalist and hoped that this path was one that she would commit to as well.
I could foresee the need for some compromise between us. I had to learn to live with the cameras and time away to give her space for a career she loved. In return, the hope would be soon to have some kiddos running around this place that looked like her. I could see us getting old, sitting on the porch and relishing the view.
“Hey you,” Anders said, coming alongside me with Tessa on his arm. “I think the show is amazing – what about you?”
“I agree,” I responded wholeheartedly. “I don’t think I imagined it being like that when Roxie first appeared.”
“That’s because the first taping captured Rachel and me in a compromising position,” Xander said, coming up to us with his new bride Rachel in tow. They had eloped to a Justice of the Peace about six months prior and were expecting the first Safe Harbor Ranch baby.
“I was all for the drama,” Linc joined them, with Lanie at his side. “I just hoped it would bring a crowd for us to feed,” he said, gazing down at Lanie with a sappy look as she went up on tiptoes to kiss her.
“What are we discussing? My amazing cameo in that first episode,” Bentley asked as he joined the group.
“You’re not all that,” Sarai said, punching him playfully in the gut.
I couldn’t believe how much had changed around these parts in the last two years. The food side of the business continued to expand, and we were booked out often these days for the dude ranch experience or trail rides. This show allowed us to expand a few critical areas and give some hefty donations to mental health organizations working with veterans and others in states we couldn’t serve directly. It was a good feeling, and as I noticed Roxie and Randy heading our way, a smile came easily to my face.
“I’m assuming from that smile and the glowing reviews – you like it?” Roxie asked me as she put an arm around my waist and laid her head next to my heart.
“I did,” I said, reaching out a hand to shake Randy’s. “It’s great, and I think it’s going to do some amazing things beyond Safe Harbor Ranch.”
“That is good because the entire season got picked up,” Randy announced as Roxie excitedly clapped her hands. “And that means Roxie will be right here with Luca filming for quite some time. We will, of course, add some administrative support full-time to help register guests willing to participate in your programs and be filmed. There is a bit more red tape to get through – but overall, this is greenlight for the foreseeable future.”
“That is great,” I said as I realized this news went a long way toward solidifying my dream.
“Oh, and I have decided that my production company cut is expenses only,” Randy offered as my gaze traveled to him again. “I am donating all my profits for this one to the organizations you have all designated.”
“Wow, you don’t have to do that,” I said with shock at the generosity of his offer.
“I would do anything for family,” he said, glancing about at the group gathered. “You were fortunate to build a family in life,” he said to me, choking up, “I’m just grateful to have you back in mine, brother.”
I grabbed him and hugged him close. I didn’t give a damn if the cameras captured us or not. Two big, tattooed guys crying and hugging was good television, after all, in my opinion. We had lived a tough journey, but family would always keep us going – no matter what form we built those ties.
“Speaking of family,” I said, backing up and, without further ado hitting my knee as I drew the ring out of my pocket. “Roxie Sachet, you were the biggest shock of my life, and now I can’t imagine what I would do without you. Will you walk this journey with me, fighting, kicking, screaming, and loving every moment of every day? I love you – will you marry me?”
Roxie stood there with her hand to her mouth in total shock for a second. I honestly worried that I had misjudged her as she didn’t say a word. I heard the gentle murmurs around us as others worried this proposal was about to be sucker-punched.
“This is where I need an answer,” I said, giving her a pleading look.
“Of course I will,” she said, jumping into my arms as I slid upright again. I hugged her tight before she leaned back, and I could claim her lips.
A resounding cheer went up as I slid the ring home on her finger.
“I love you,” she whispered as I saw Luca standing there, capturing every moment for posterity.
“I love you,” I said, kissing her deeply. “Good thing we have Luca, so we won’t ever miss a moment.”
“Now, that’s the spirit,” she said, kissing me again until I didn’t care who was watching.
