Chapter 27
27
L awson shut the truck door and hurried over to Harper’s side. He held tight to her hand as they walked toward Sierra’s training facility. “This will be the perfect spot,” he said, pointing to the side of what the family called “Sierra’s barn.”
“It looks great. I still can’t believe you’re starting a rodeo training program here.”
Lawson laughed. “Me either. After all those years of my parents being against any of us competing in rodeos, it’s pretty shocking. But now that they’ve seen me compete, they know it’s important for riders to be trained well. I know we can never predict what an animal will do, and there will always be rodeo accidents. But I hope we can teach them to be safe and learn how to ride properly.”
Harper smiled and squeezed his hand.
He turned and faced her, putting his hands on her shoulders. “I hope this isn’t painful for you.”
She shook her head. “I thought it might be, but it’s what Noah would have wanted. He loved what he did and spent his life living a dream. He would be thrilled to know I’m part of creating something like this.”
“I’m glad you feel that way. I know Katie has talked with you about coming to work at the ranch as a photographer. That’s perfect, but I think you can be more than that. We need to market the ranch as we grow and expand into new areas.”
Harper furrowed her eyebrows. “What are you thinking?”
“How would you feel about being the official social media manager for Whispering Oaks Ranch?”
Harper’s eyes grew wide, and she paused, thinking that over. “That sounds amazing! I hadn’t considered it before, but I would love it. I took a marketing and social media class online a couple of years ago and was really interested in it. I even applied for a position with the rodeo association, but it didn’t work out. It will be learning on the job for sure, but if you’re willing to let me try, I would be thrilled to do it!”
“Of course, we’re willing. I already talked to my brothers to make sure they approved before I offered.”
“I’m so glad you’re all working together so well now.”
“Me too. Since we all plan to be here for a long time, we want to build our ranch business together and use everyone’s strengths in the areas where they want to work.” He paused. “And we’re all happy to get you on the payroll and keep you here at Whispering Oaks.”
Harper blushed. “I’m happy to be here too. Mom and Dad can’t wait to get out here next week. I’m so grateful to your mom for letting them stay while they look for a house.”
“You know that’s what we do around here. We take care of people.”
“I know. I’m just blessed to be one of those people.” Harper said, looping her hand through his arm as they began to walk again.
“Now, as the new social media manager, once you get the accounts set up and running, your first job will be to announce the future opening of the new Noah Sullivan Memorial Rodeo Training Facility.”
Harper gasped. “Really?” she asked as her eyes filled with tears.
“Yes, really.”
“Oh Lawson, that’s so kind. Thank you. He would love nothing more.”
Lawson took her in his arms and tenderly kissed her lips. “And I love nothing more than having you here. I want to work together to continue Noah’s legacy and build our own legacy here on the ranch.”
“I love you, Lawson. And I love all of this.”
“I love you, Harper. I can’t imagine my life any other way. And I don’t want to.”
Lawson kissed her again, silently thanking God for bringing her into his life. As they embraced each other, he knew they were exactly where they were meant to be, ready to face the future, together.