Winning the Cowboy (Circle B Ranch 6)

The spring program will start in thirty minutes, and I have pre-show jitters since most of the town will be attending. I know the students will do amazing because they’ve spent countless hours rehearsing.

“Did you find Silvia’s yellow shirt?” Lacey asks a few teachers who are standing on the side of the bleachers.

“I did and already gave it to her,” I tell her.

Lacey blows out a breath. “Thank God. She was having a complete meltdown just a while ago, so I went searching high and low for it.”

“She left it in her classroom,” I explain.

“Awesome. I think we’re ready then. I’m gonna go make sure,” Lacey says.

The kids are currently waiting under the covered walkway outside with another group of adults and will enter when the program starts. Their shirts are color coordinated by grade, and they’ll each do their own dance number, then finish with a combined grand finale.

“That’s a good idea. I’ll be out in about ten minutes,” I explain, looking for Grayson.

Before I meet the kids outside, he finds me.

“Break a leg, baby,” Grayson says, painting his lips across mine. “Isn’t that what they say?”

“I guess, I was never into theater. But I think that’s the right sayin’.” I lean forward to steal another kiss.

“Kissin’ you here feels scandalous,” he whispers in my ear.

I hold back laughter and shake my head. Sometimes, I think about all that wasted time we could’ve been together, but regardless, I’m grateful we eventually found our way to each other. And maybe Grayson was right. Us being together could’ve been destiny. Sure as hell seems like it after everything we’ve been through.

“I’m so happy you’re here.”

He tucks loose strands of hair behind my ear. “Of course. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

“Gah, it’s gonna start soon.” I brush my lips against his, and he pulls away with a smirk.

“Time’s a tickin’, sweetheart. Better get out there. Y’all are gonna do great! It’ll be one to remember, I promise,” he encourages, then gives me one last kiss before walking away.

As I look out in the gym, it’s crammed full, and some people are standing. Granted, it’s not a huge space to begin with, but I think this is the most we’ve ever had since we started. It makes sense, though, because we have nearly fifty percent of the student body participating now. The program grew faster than I ever imagined it would.

As some of the teachers round up the kids, I take one last look at the crowd. I grab my megaphone and gain their attention. Once I key it up, all their eyes are on me.

“Are y’all ready and excited?” I ask and look across their smiling faces as they nod.

“Alright, well, it’s time we get started.” I clap my hands encouragingly, then lead them inside the school. They’ll wait in the hallway until it’s each grade’s turn to go out.

As soon as the music starts inside the gym, the kindergarteners rush in. The room fills with cheers as soon as The Jackson 5’s “ABC” comes on. I sit in the front, nodding and smiling along as they perform. It’s absolutely adorable.

Each grade’s performances pass by in a blink, then it’s time for the group dance.

As the song for the finale starts, I’m overwhelmed with pride and begin to tear up. The kids are so well practiced that they don’t miss a single beat. When the song finishes, the room erupts into applause.

My mother walks up as the kids take their bows, then rush off.

Just when I think she’s about to thank everyone for coming, another song starts. I’m confused and think there’s a mistake, then look at Mrs. Lattice, who’s controlling the music. She smiles and waves, so I know she’s up to something.

After a moment, I realize the song is “Marry Me” by Jason Derulo.

The kindergartners come out holding signs, smiling and moving to the music. I rush to read them.

This is our love story. One that we’ve written.

I look around, and everyone looks just as confused as I am.

The chorus starts, and the first and second graders walk out with more signs.

You’re the only one for me.

I thank God for our second chance.

After they leave, the third graders come out.

I know we’re meant to be.

I can’t imagine life without you.

Last but not least come the fourth and fifth graders.

Will you marry me, Kenzie Bishop?

Be my wife and spend forever with me?

As soon as I read my name, my mouth falls open, and I cover it with my hands. Grayson walks into the center of the gym as all the kids stand to the side, and that’s when I realize they have signs that read, “Say yes!”

“Go on,” Mom beams, placing her hand on the small of my back and pushing me toward him.

Tears spill over as I go to him. He leans forward and kisses me, wiping the pad of his thumbs over my cheeks. “Don’t cry, baby.” He flashes me a wink, then drops to one knee and opens a velvet box. As everyone cheers, I’m completely speechless.