The sky was overcast the next morning, clouds hanging heavy above the ranch, mirroring Olivia's turbulent emotions. She had spent the night in the guest cabin, its familiar coziness providing little solace amid her swirling thoughts. The vast Wyoming plains seemed endless, a reflection of the uncertainty she faced.
As Olivia awoke, she felt a renewed sense of purpose. She knew she had to find a way to reach Jack, to prove her commitment and sincerity. But first, she had to face her own fears—those she had buried under layers of ambition and past heartbreak.
Dressing quickly in worn jeans and a flannel shirt, she grabbed a hat and stepped outside. The cool morning air brushed against her face, a stark contrast to the warmth she sought. The ranch was already abuzz with activity, the rhythmic sounds of hooves and machinery filling the air.
Her first stop was the barn, where she found Chase mending a fence. His face was set in concentration, but he looked up as she approached, offering a sympathetic smile.
"Morning, Liv. You look like you've got a lot on your mind," Chase said, his tone gentle.
"I do," Olivia admitted, her heart heavy. "I need to talk to Jack. I want to make things right."
Chase sighed, leaning on the fence post. "I can't promise he'll be ready to listen. He's been pretty set in his ways since you left. But if you're determined, he's working on the east side of the property today."
"Thanks, Chase," Olivia said, her voice steady despite the fluttering anxiety in her chest. She turned and headed toward the east fields.
The east side of the ranch was a different world—wide open spaces dotted with grazing cattle, the land stretching out in every direction. It was where Jack spent his time when he needed solitude, away from the bustle of the ranch and the house.
As Olivia approached, she saw Jack in the distance, working with a group of ranch hands. He was on horseback, guiding the cattle with a practiced hand. The sight of him, strong and confident, struck her with a mix of admiration and longing.
She stopped at a distance, not wanting to intrude. But Jack, ever perceptive, noticed her presence. He rode closer, his gaze shifting between guarded and curious. When he was near enough, he dismounted and approached her.
"What are you doing here, Olivia?" His voice was steady but lacking the warmth she remembered.
"I came to talk," Olivia began, her heart pounding. "I know I've made mistakes, and I understand if you're angry or hurt. But I'm here because I want to make things right. I need to show you that I'm committed to us, to this life."
Jack's expression was guarded, his eyes searching hers for sincerity. "And what's changed, Olivia? Why should I believe that this time is different?"
"Because I've had time to think," she said, her voice growing firmer. "I've realized that what I want most is right here with you. It's not about the city or the glamour; it's about finding a place where I truly belong, and that place is with you."
Jack's gaze softened slightly, but he remained skeptical. "I don't know if I can trust you. You've always had one foot out the door."
"I understand," Olivia said, her voice trembling. "But I'm ready to stay, to fight for us. I don't want to run anymore. I want to be here, to build a life together."
Just as Jack was about to respond, a voice called out from behind them.
"Jack! There you are!"
Olivia turned to see Lily Mae striding towards them, her presence commanding and confident. She wore a fitted leather jacket and jeans, her auburn hair catching the sunlight. Her eyes met Olivia's with a hint of curiosity.
"Lily Mae," Jack said, his tone shifting to one of forced cheerfulness. "What brings you here?"
"I came to see if you needed any help with the cattle," Lily Mae said, her gaze lingering on Olivia. "Looks like you've got company."
Olivia felt a pang of insecurity. Lily Mae's presence was like a spotlight, highlighting her own feelings of inadequacy. But she forced herself to stand tall, meeting Lily Mae's gaze with steady resolve.
"I was just talking to Jack," Olivia said, her voice calm despite her nerves. "I'm here to work things out."
Lily Mae raised an eyebrow, her expression thoughtful. "Well, I'll leave you to it then. If you need anything, just holler."
As Lily Mae turned and walked away, Olivia felt a mixture of relief and apprehension. She knew Lily Mae was a part of Jack's life, but seeing her there made her realize how important it was to prove her commitment.
Jack watched Lily Mae leave, then turned back to Olivia. "She's been a big part of my life for a long time," he said, his voice softening. "But I need to know if you're truly ready to make this work."
Olivia took a deep breath, her emotions raw but sincere. "I am, Jack. I know I've made mistakes, but I'm here now because I want to be with you. I'm willing to do whatever it takes."
Jack's expression softened, and for the first time in what felt like forever, Olivia saw a glimmer of the warmth she remembered. He took a step closer, his voice low and earnest. "I want to believe that, Olivia. I really do."
"I'm not asking for everything to be perfect right away," Olivia said, her voice filled with hope. "Just a chance to prove that I'm here for the long haul."
Jack's eyes met hers, filled with a tenderness that made Olivia's heart swell. "Alright," he said softly. "We'll take it one step at a time. I'm willing to give us a chance."
Olivia felt a wave of relief wash over her. She reached out and took Jack's hand, feeling the warmth of his touch. As they stood there together, surrounded by the vast beauty of the Wyoming landscape, Olivia knew that they were starting a new chapter—one filled with hope and the promise of a future together.
The winds of change had brought her back to Jack, and with his hand in hers, Olivia felt ready to navigate the tides of love and time, one step at a time.