19. Stephanie

19

STEPHANIE

I watched Ashlyn's face and the myriad of emotions that danced across her features, revealing a struggle that tugged at my heart. Despite her bravado, I could sense her underlying tension. I could tell by the way her fingers fidgeted and her gaze flitted to the side, as if searching for an escape. There was something Ashlyn wasn't telling me, something that curled around my gut like a snake. While my instinct urged me to pursue the truth, to demand she open up to me completely, I hesitated.

The reality of our situation loomed larger than any hidden secret. The race in two weeks wasn't just a competition; it was my lifeline. The responsibility was intense. If Phantom was going to secure our future, then all of my energy and focus needed to be directed toward that goal. But how could I do that while knowing Ashlyn was holding back?

I took a deep breath, reminding myself that I had to trust her abilities. She was exceptional with Phantom—a natural rider whose confidence radiated from her. The bond the two of them shared was undeniable, and maybe that was enough.

I had to channel my anxiety into a fierce determination for the raceahead. The financial strain and the fear of losing the ranch—those were battles for another day. "Okay," I said, my voice steady. "We'll focus on the race. I believe in you, Ashlyn. I know you can win."

As soon as the words left my mouth, I felt a surge of conviction. I would throw myself into this challenge alongside her, pushing aside my worries about whatever Ashlyn was hiding.

Her face softened in response, a hint of gratitude flickering in her eyes. "Thank you, Stephanie. It means everything to me that you believe in us." There was something in her voice that made my heart skip. It was more than just gratitude; it was a thread of connection that pulled me closer to her. The way Ashlyn looked at me, the warmth in her gaze—it made my insides flutter. I wanted to reach out, to hold her, and to erase the distance that had crept between us. The love I felt for her was undeniable, an undercurrent that surged with every shared moment.

But I had to be strong. "We'll work together to prepare Phantom for the race," I said, forcing myself voice to be steady. "We'll get him in shape, practice our strategies, and make sure he's ready to go."

"Absolutely," she agreed, her tone shifting to that of a determined partner. "I'll spend extra time with him too, working on stamina and speed. I know he's got it in him."

"Together, we'll make this happen," I replied, feeling a spark of hope ignite within me. "I'll help however I can."

As I looked at Ashlyn, at the way her hair caught the light and the softness of her expression, I felt a rush of affection. But it was overshadowed by a sense of urgency. The race was our immediate

concern, but the unresolved tension between us loomed large. Whatever Ashlyn was hiding felt like a chasm that could open up at any moment. I knew I had to navigate it carefully.

"Let's get to work then," I said, forcing a smile even as uncertainty gnawed at me. "We'll train hard and win this race. And after that . . . " My voice trailed off as I considered the next steps. The

impending confrontation with whatever truth lay between us. But for now, I had to keep my focus on the task at hand.

With a deep breath, I took a step toward her, brushing my fingers lightly against Ashlyn's arm. The connection sparked like electricity, sending a shiver through me. In that moment, the world outside

faded away. It was just us, two women standing on the precipice of something powerful. But would our connection be enough to withstand whatever storm was brewing just beyond our horizon?

I moved through the quiet kitchen. The world outside was still cloaked in darkness. I reached for the coffee pot and the rich aroma filled the air, offering a brief comfort. The clock on the wall ticked

softly, its hands creeping toward 3 AM. I poured the steaming liquid into a travel mug, my mind

buzzing with thoughts of the upcoming race.

"Early bird or night owl?" Melody's voice cut through the stillness, laced with laughter. She came into the kitchen bright-eyed and cheerful—a stark contrast to the exhaustion I felt clinging to my bones.

"Definitely an early bird," I replied, forcing a smile as I turned to face her. "Got a lot on my mind."

She leaned against the counter, crossing her arms with a playful smirk. "Are you sure it's not just the pressure of the big race? I mean, we all know you're a workaholic, but you've really taken it to the next level."

I chuckled softly, knowing she was right. "You could say that. Just trying to make sure everything runs smoothly. Phantom's counting on me."

"Uh-huh," she said, feigning disbelief. "And what about you? You can't pour from an empty cup, Steph. You need to take care of yourself too. The ranch needs you to be healthy and strong, and I can't have my best friend turning into a caffeine-fueled zombie."

Her playful concern brought a warmth to my chest, and I couldn't help but roll my eyes at her antics. "I'm fine, Melody. Just a little caffeine to kickstart the day. I promise I'll get some sleep after

the race."

"After the race? Please," she scoffed, waving a hand dismissively. "You'll probably be so hyped up on adrenaline that you'll want to celebrate all night. Just promise me you won't forget to eat, okay?

I'm not about to let you starve yourself in the name of ranching."

I laughed, the tension easing a bit in my shoulders. "I promise I'll eat. I'll even make a point to sit down and enjoy a meal—maybe even one you cook."

"Now we're talking," she grinned, grabbing a muffin from the counter and tossing it my way. "Here, take this for the road. It's not a full breakfast, but it's better than nothing."

"Thanks," I said, catching the muffin and popping it into my bag. "I really appreciate your looking out for me."

"Always," Melody replied, her tone softening. "But seriously, you need to let loose a little. I mean, it's not just about the race. There's more to life than work, you know?"

Her words hung in the air and I felt a pang of reality wash over me. The weight of the upcoming race, the fear of losing the ranch, and the unspoken tension between Ashlyn and me had become all-consuming. It was easy to lose sight of everything else. "I know, I just . . . I feel like there's so much at stake right now," I confessed, my voice barely above a whisper. "If Phantom doesn't win, we could lose everything. And I can't let that happen."

Melody stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "You've worked hard to get to this point, Steph. Just remember that you're not in this alone. You've got me, and you've got Ashlyn. Lean on us a little, okay?"

Her words resonated deep within me and I nodded, grateful for Melody's unwavering support. Did I have Ashlyn, though? I wanted to believe in our connection, so very much. But, something wasn't right between us. "You're right. I just need to keep my focus on the race for now. Once it's over, I'll take a breather."

"Good plan," she said, eyes sparkling with mischief. "And maybe after you win, we can have a celebratory bonfire. Get some s'mores going and reminisce about how you single-handedly saved the ranch with your mad skills and Ashlyn's incredible riding."

"Deal," I replied, my spirits lifting at the thought of a celebration. "But only if you promise to make those fancy hot dogs you love."

"Only if you promise to actually eat one this time!" Melody shot back, her laughter filling the kitchen as I grabbed my things and headed for the door.

"Okay, I'm in. See you later!" I called over my shoulder, the warmth of our banter lingering as I stepped out into the crisp morning air. I settled into my truck, ready to face another day of preparations for the race. I just couldn't shake the feeling that this was more than "just a race." It was a turning point for all of us, and I was determined to rise to the occasion—no matter what it took.

The soft glow of the moon filtered through the curtains, casting gentle shadows across the room as I lay nestled beside Ashlyn. The world outside was wrapped in quiet stillness, a stark contrast to

the whirlwind of thoughts that had led up to this moment. Tonight, all the tension and doubts that had clouded my mind melted away, leaving only the warmth of her presence beside me.

I turned my head to watch her as she slept, her features softened in the moonlight. Her hair spilled across the pillow like liquid gold, and I couldn't keep myself from reaching out to tuck a stray lock behind her ear. Ashlyn stirred slightly, a faint smile gracing her lips even in her sleep, and my heart swelled at the sight.

This race was the culmination of so much hard work and dedication—both for Phantom and for us. It loomed large on the horizon, a challenge that could change everything. Yet here in this moment, it felt like nothing else mattered. All the noise and chaos of the world faded away, leaving just the two of us cocooned in our own little haven. As I shifted closer, I felt the warmth radiating from her body. It was comforting, grounding me in a way that I desperately needed. I wrapped my arms around Ashlyn, pulling her close. Savoring the feel of her against me. Ashlyn's body fit perfectly against mine, and I relished the intimacy of this quiet moment. We had a connection that transcended words—a silent understanding of everything we had been through together.

"Hey," I whispered, my voice barely breaking the silence. She stirred again, her lids fluttering open to reveal those captivating eyes that seemed to hold galaxies within them.

"Hey," she murmured, a sleepy smile blooming on her face as she took in the sight of me. "What time is it?"

"Too late for you to be worried about the race," I replied playfully, brushing my fingers along her arm. "We've done everything we can. Tomorrow, we just need to trust ourselves and Phantom."

"Right," she said, her voice still thick with sleep. "I just can't help but feel a little anxious."

I nodded, understanding her perfectly. I felt it too—the tight knot of nerves in my stomach and the uncertainty of what lay ahead. But as I held her close, I realized that this moment was ours. No matter the outcome, we would still have each other. "Whatever happens tomorrow, I want you to know how proud I am of you. You've poured your heart into Phantom and he's lucky to have you."

A soft blush crept across her cheeks and I felt a flutter of joy at the sight. "You really think so?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I know so," I replied earnestly. "You've been incredible. I believe in you, Ashlyn."

She shifted slightly, propping herself up on one elbow to meet my gaze. "You always know how to make me feel better," she said, her tone turning serious. "But it's more than that. You've been my rock through all of this."

I smiled, brushing my fingers along her jawline, reveling in the closeness. "We're a team, remember? I'm here for you, just like you're here for me." A moment of silence passed between us, charged with unspoken feelings. I could see the way her expression shifted, a mixture of vulnerability and something deeper simmering just beneath the surface. And then, without thinking, I leaned in closer, capturing her lips with mine in a soft kiss that spoke volumes about the connection we shared.

As we pulled apart, I felt the need to express everything that had been building inside me. "Ashlyn," I began, my heart pounding in my chest. "I love you."

Her eyes widened, a mixture of surprise and delight flooding her features. "You love me?" she echoed, as if savoring the words.

"Yeah," I said, my voice steady despite the rush of emotions. "I do. I've loved you for a while now. It's just—everything feels so uncertain right now, but I know that my feelings for you are real.

You've brought so much joy into my life."

The corners of her mouth turned up into a radiant smile and I felt my heart soar. "I love you too, Stephanie," she said, her voice warm and genuine. "I've been scared to say it, but I feel it in every moment we spend together."

We fell into another kiss, this one deeper and more passionate, igniting a fire between us that chased away the shadows of uncertainty. As we held each other close, I knew that no matter what

tomorrow brought, we would face it together. The love we shared was a force that could weather any storm, and that thought filled me with an unwavering strength.

As we lay together, our bodies entwined under the soft sheets, I allowed myself to drift into a peaceful sleep, comforted by the knowledge that we had each other, no matter what the future

held. The race, the challenges, and all the doubts would come and go, but this bond we had created was something I cherished above all else. And for now, that was enough.