Epilogue

Sunlight streamed through the open window of the cozy workshop, where bolts of fabric in various hues were neatly stacked along the walls. A gentle breeze carried the sound of laughter as Cassie carefully threaded her needle. Daisy was outside, playing with the tireless energy only a five-year-old possessed. She watched her daughter through the window, her heart swelling with a love that was both fierce and tender.

"Mama, look!" Daisy's voice floated in as she held up a wildflower crown, her blond hair catching the sun's rays like spun gold.

"Beautiful, sweet pea," Cassie called back, her hands not missing a stitch as she worked on a special order dress. Every so often, her gaze would drift back to Daisy, ensuring her little one was safe and happy.

"Careful now, don't go chasing the chickens again," she said with a light-hearted chuckle.

"I won't!" Daisy promised, skipping about with a carefree spirit that filled the home with joy.

Cassie returned to her sewing, the rhythmic hum of the machine blending with the sounds of nature. Her days were full, splitting time between her cherished role as a mother and her passion for dressmaking.

CASSIE STEPPED ONTOthe porch, a glass of cool lemonade in her hand. Andy was leaning against the railing, his gaze fixed on the horizon where their land stretched out before them.

"Beautiful evening," Cassie said, taking a spot beside him, her voice soft but filled with contentment.

"Every evening's beautiful with you and Daisy around." Andy turned to her, the corners of his eyes crinkling with warmth.

Cassie sipped her drink, watching their daughter chase the dog around the yard, her laughter mingling with the rustle of the wind through the grass. She leaned into Andy, her head resting lightly against his shoulder.

"I can't imagine a more perfect life," she murmured, the truth of her words resonating deep within her heart.

Andy wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her closer. "I feel the same way," he replied. "The ranch is doing better than I ever dreamed. Got five good men working for us now."

"Your hard work is paying off," Cassie said, pride lacing her tone as she thought about the thriving expanse they called home.

"Couldn't have done it without you, Cass. You've got a way of making everything...right." His dark eyes met hers, honest and full of love.

She smiled up at him, the simplicity of their life together filling her with an immense sense of gratitude. "As long as we have each other, that's all that matters."

"Forever and always," Andy affirmed, sealing their quiet moment with a tender kiss against her forehead.

CASSIE HUMMED A CHEERFULtune as she threaded the needle with practiced ease, her hands moving deftly over the rich fabric stretched out on the table before her. Sunlight filtered through the window of the cozy room that served as both her workspace and sanctuary. The walls were adorned with dress designs and sketches.

"Looks lovely, Cassie," Judy said, eyeing the elegant gown taking shape under Cassie's skilled fingers. "Mrs. Henderson will be pleased."

"Thank you, Judy." Cassie glanced up with a smile, her blue eyes sparkling. "I'm glad I've got you here to help me keep track of all these orders."

"Wouldn't want to be anywhere else," Judy replied, her voice warm with genuine affection.

The two women worked in comfortable silence, the only sounds the rhythmic snip of scissors and the occasional clink of pins into a cushion. They had developed a rhythm over the years, their partnership seamless as they crafted beautiful garments for the ladies of the town.

As the afternoon waned, Cassie stepped back from her work, stretching her arms above her head. She surveyed the fruits of their labor with satisfaction. Her dream of being a dressmaker had not only been realized but had flourished, thanks in no small part to Judy's unwavering support.

"Time to call it a day?" Judy asked, glancing at the clock on the wall.

"Yes," Cassie agreed, folding the dress carefully and setting it aside. "Daisy will be home from school soon."

"Can't keep that little one waiting," Judy chuckled, tidying up their workspace.

Soon, the sound of laughter and the patter of small feet announced Daisy's return. Cassie's heart swelled at the sight of her daughter, her blond hair a mirror of her own, her face lit with the boundless joy of childhood.

"Mama!" Daisy exclaimed, throwing herself into Cassie's open arms.

"Hello, my angel," Cassie said, lifting her daughter into a hug. "Did you have a good day?"

"The best! Miss Thompson said my reading's getting better!"

"That's wonderful, darling." Cassie set her down and ruffled her hair affectionately.

"Supper won't be long," Judy called out from the kitchen, where she'd moved to start the evening meal.

"Can I help, Miss Judy?" Daisy offered eagerly, always ready to be involved.

"Sure thing, Daisy," Judy responded, her tone inviting.

Cassie watched them for a moment, a contented sigh escaping her lips. Her life was a tapestry woven with love, companionship, and the quiet satisfaction of days well spent. Outside, the rugged beauty of the ranch stretched out beneath the wide Montana sky, while inside, her heart brimmed with a peace that whispered of home.

"Everything all right, Cass?" Andy's voice came from behind her.

"Everything's perfect," Cassie replied, turning to him with a smile that said more than words ever could. "Absolutely perfect."