“I’m glad she’s getting some rest,” I reply, planting my hands on my hips. “Now are either of you going to tell me why we’re on Mr. Grady’s property?”
Dad shoots Walker a knowing glance before turning back to me. “It’s not Mr. Grady’s anymore, kiddo. It’s yours now.” He gestures to the surrounding pasture and barn. “Well, once the final papers are signed of course, but Mr. Grady and I shook on it, and he’s a man of his word.”
My mouth falls open, stunned. “Sorry… I don’t understand.”
“You’ve done so much for your mother and me over the years, and we wanted to do something to express our appreciation. We’re both incredibly proud of you and everything you’ve accomplished.” He straightens his shoulders, speaking with firm conviction. “When Walker told me how much you wanted this land for your animal rescue and to start a nonprofit, there was no question I had to make your dream come true.”
I swore I wasn’t going to cry again for a long while after Mama came home from the hospital yesterday, but tears spring in my eyes as I rush into his embrace, throwing my arms around his neck.
I’m utterly stunned by his grand gesture, and it means more than I could ever put into words. It’s not just a gift—it’s a symbol of a new beginning and a reminder that, despite our ups and downs, he’s in my corner. That feeling is worth more than anything money could buy.
“Thank you, Dad,” I choke out, lifting my head to meet his tender gaze. “Thank you so much.”
He brushes a tear from my cheek. “There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for you or your mother. You know that, right?’
“I do,” I whisper.
And for the first time since Mama’s diagnosis upended our lives, I truly mean it.
“We can’t wait to see what you do with the place, and whatever else you need along the way, we’re here.” He gives me another hug before pulling back and glancing at the setting sun. “I’d better head out before it gets dark. I promised your mother I’d swing by the Prickly Pear for that peach cobbler she loves.”
“Thanks again, Dad. We’ll stop by tomorrow,” I say, motioning between Walker and me. “I’d like your input on some early ideas for the new sanctuary.”
I’ve pictured this day for as long as I can remember, and I’m not about to waste a single moment turning it into reality.
“I’d like that,” Dad answers with a smile. “See you both then.”
“Have a good night,” Walker replies with a tip of his head.
“You too, son.” Dad gives him an approving nod before meeting my gaze. “You picked a good one, Birdie.”
I let out a bubble of laughter, pride swelling in my chest. “I really did.”
We watch him get into his car, and as he drives off, Walker winds his arms around me. I lean back against his chest, taking in the property stretching out before us.
“I can’t believe this is really all mine,” I say softly. “Thank you.”
“It was all your Dad,” Walker replies, gently rubbing my back.
He may not admit it, but I know he played a big part in making all this possible. From the beginning, he’s been the driving force behind turning my hopes and dreams into reality and reminding me that the best parts of life are shared with the people who matter most. He’s also shown, by example that the right person will help carry your burdens, not out of obligation but out of love and devotion.
Walker leans down to press a kiss to my hair. “This place is going to be incredible once the renovations are done and it’s filled with rescue animals,” he says, nodding to the barn.
I tilt my head to glance back at him. “I’m going to need a strong man to help with all the manual labor. You in? A shirt is optional,” I tease with a wink.
“With a proposition like that, how could I refuse? Though if I take your dad up on his offer, I’ll have to put in nights and weekends around here.”
I ease out of his arms, spinning around to face him. “What offer?”
“He asked me to take over as sheriff,” Walker explains, his tone measured.
“That’s great news,” I exclaim, clapping my hands.
He rubs his palm over his jaw. “I told him I’d have to think about it.”
I shift back slightly, frowning. “Why?”
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, one that he’d handle brilliantly, if it’s what he wants.
