“We’re so proud of you, honey,” her mother said, hugging her tightly. “We filmed the whole thing to send to your brother.”
“Mom, Dad,” she said, hugging them.
“Congratulations, sweetie,” he said.
“Don’t forget us,” Rayne said, kissing her cheek.
“Oh my gosh,” Scarlett said, wiping the tears from her face. Joy flowed through her as everyone congratulated her.
“Congratulations, Scarlett,” Ghost said, rubbing her arm and shaking Ty’s hand.
Ty pulled her close, letting her know Sledge and Rocker sat in wheelchairs at the end of the stage.
She waved and thanked the town. They spent the rest of the day enjoying the good food and visiting with the people of Serenity who came to congratulate her. Scarlett showed Ice off to her family and friends until Ty pulled her away.
“Kassie set your parents up in one of the cabins. They’re going to freshen up, and my Mom will drive them to the ranch. I have dinner planned to give you some time alone, away from the crowd, to catch up withyour family,” Ty informed her. “Do you want to ride back with me and get everything ready?”
She smiled and nodded. “Yes, please. Everyone’s made all of this special, but I wouldn’t mind getting away from the crowd for a bit.”
Ty escorted her and Ice to his truck, and they returned home.
When they entered, Ty checked the food while Scarlett fed Ice.
“We have some time before our parents arrive. How about a ride to the lake? Hank has missed you,” Ty asked.
“Oh, it sounds lovely. The lake always seems to calm me,” Scarlett said as she refreshed Ice’s water.
They walked to the barn, and Hank neighed at the sight of Scarlett.
“See? I told you he’s the smartest horse around,” Ty bragged.
“I bet he missed the extra carrots I feed him,” Scarlett teased.
Ty helped her mount and settled in behind her. They exited the barn, and Scarlett giggled. “Hank, take us to the lake.”
The horse complied, and Scarlett leaned back against Ty’s chest, enjoying the leisurely pace. Ice ran alongside them.
“Did you know they planned to surprise me with the key to the city?” she asked.
“The mayor called and asked me to escort you after their board meeting. It seems Kassie’s speech about the need for extra officers and the town's benefit from the hospital’s presence spurred him into action. Frankly, I’m surprised and happy to see our town come together again. The burden never should’ve landed on Chase and Kassie’s shoulders,” Ty informed her.
“Yeah, I’m happy they raised the money for the communitycenter. I have to say, after tasting Tess’ tacos, I know why they made as much as they did.”
“Yes. She’s a great cook,” Ty said as they neared the tree by the pond.
He dismounted and tied Hank to the tree. Scarlett dismounted by herself and reached into the saddlebag to get her cane.
Ty covered her hand. “No. Let me be your eyes today,” he insisted, his voice lowering into the deep timber, which made her body tingle.
Ty walked her along the shaded area of the lake. The sun peeked between the naked limbs of the tree. Scarlett raised her chin, enjoying its warmth.
“I love you, Sparky,” Ty said as he reached for her left hand.
“I love you, Ty. I’ll never forget today,” she said, smiling.
Scarlett felt Ty bend on one knee. “I hope not. Today, you saw the whole town welcome you with open arms. They saw what I noticed months ago. You’re an incredible woman. If we’ve learned anything over the past few months, things can be replaced, but our time with one another can’t. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Sparky, will you marry me?”
She gasped and covered her mouth as tears sprang to her eyes. “Yes,” she exclaimed.
