Total pages in book: 85
Estimated words: 82279 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 411(@200wpm)___ 329(@250wpm)___ 274(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 82279 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 411(@200wpm)___ 329(@250wpm)___ 274(@300wpm)
“Looks like they’re all waitin’ for us,” I say, taking in a slow breath.
“Yep.” Kaitlyn smiles wide. “Let’s go!”
Her excitement rubs off on me as we climb out of the truck. As soon as her parents see us, their voices float toward us. “They’re here!”
“In the flesh,” I say when we’re close.
Rose Bishop joins us too. She’s wearing her Sunday best with her hair and makeup done. She’s even got a sun hat on and sunglasses.
“Hope y’all don’t mind. I invited a few people.”
“A few?” Kaitlyn turns and waves her hand. “The whole town is here.”
“Sorry, sweetie. Everyone wanted to come out and show their support.” She opens her arms, and Kaitlyn falls into them.
When Kaitlyn steps back, she adds, “I’ll forgive you this time.”
“Can we get a picture of the whole family in front of the barn?” Patricia asks.
“Sure,” I tell her as all the Bishops fall into place. Alex, Evan, Jackson, and John are standing by their wives. Handfuls of great-grandkids are sprinkled throughout, along with Kaitlyn’s brothers, cousins, and all their spouses.
“We all gonna fit?” Kaitlyn asks, glancing around.
“Squish in just a little on the edges.” Patricia points to the right-hand side. “If you can’t see me, I can’t see you.”
A minute later, she snaps a few pictures, then moves Kaitlyn and me to the side for a small, uninterrupted interview.
“Honestly, all of this was Payton’s idea,” Kaitlyn tells her. “He’s been working here for nearly a decade, and he’s been my best friend ever since. My family has always tried to give back to the community, so doing something as monumental as starting a nonprofit will allow us to continue that mission. We just needed the right person to spearhead it, so Payton really deserves all the credit for his amazin’ idea and contribution.” Kaitlyn smiles proudly.
“Thanks, Kate, I’m honored,” I tell her, then look back at Patricia. “Honestly, it was a group effort. Without the Bishops, this wouldn’t have been possible. I couldn’t be happier to partner with someone I respect so deeply. Kaitlyn has always had a passion for horses and riding. It’s why she’s one of the best trainers in Texas. Together, and with the help of those who have donated their time, we’ll be able to make a true difference in the industry.”
She grabs my hand and squeezes it.
“Can I get a photo of just the two of you for the front page?”
“Yeah, absolutely,” I say, wrapping my arm around Kaitlyn and then waiting for the flash.
When Kaitlyn notices the crowd getting antsy, she leads me to the front of the barn.
She puts two fingers in her mouth and does a loud whistle just like her mom does. “Hey! Woo-hoo, over here.” She lifts her hand and grabs everyone’s attention.
“Appreciate you all being here today, but I’m sure Mayor Bryant has other things he could be doin’, so let’s get this party goin’.”
The crowd laughs as the mayor steps forward with an oversized pair of gold scissors. Everyone holds up their phones to record video and take photos.
“Thank y’all for having me here today,” the mayor begins. “I appreciate so many of y’all coming for this dedication and amazin’ project.” He gives a heartwarming speech about helping animals and how the area has never had anything like this. “With all that being said, we’re honored to celebrate with you and wish you tons of success. We know you’ll make a difference, not just locally but also statewide.”
He hands the scissors to Kaitlyn, and she stands closer to me, nudging me to grab them too.
“Let’s do it together,” she whispers, smiling.
“Photo first, please!” Patricia hollers, holding up her hand, so we focus on her. We smile, then once she’s done, cut the ribbon. Everyone bursts into a roar of cheers and applause.
“I want to say something very quickly,” I speak up, and everyone grows silent again. “This wouldn’t be possible without Kaitlyn being my cheerleader and encouraging me to pursue this. It was always a pipe dream of mine, but with her and the Bishop family, they’ve helped turn it into a reality.” I meet Kaitlyn’s eyes and find they have tears threatening to pour over. Clearing my throat, I continue, “Just wanna say, I’m super appreciative and grateful to y’all. Thank you so much.”
She smiles wide, and at the moment, all the people around us seem to disappear.
“Dreams come true if you let them.” Kaitlyn pulls me into a hug, and for the first time in a long time, I feel something I haven’t felt before—true happiness.
* * *
KAITLYN
After the dedication yesterday, I’ve been more tired than usual. Between my training schedule and the rescue getting up and running, my life will be hectic for a while. I have about fifteen minutes before I need to head to the barn, but I decide to go early because my nerves are getting the best of me.