Chapter 24

Lauren smiled at all the lights adorning the town of Saddle Creek. It was lit up like a Christmas tree. Couples strolled up and down the boardwalk, coming and going to the dance. Some were decked out in jiggling silver spurs, big silver-and-gold belt buckles, and bolos, while others wore contemporary jeans and shirts.

Country music echoed from the barn, and light spilled across the boardwalk, highlighting the people. They entered the barn and the aroma of fresh hay and food assailed her nostrils. In one corner, a live band played a country tune and her nerves thrummed along with the music. A table full of food and drink was set up across from the band. Pushing through the crowd, Lauren and Chase made their way to the food table to unload their contribution of food. They got a drink and loaded a plate of food and found a nearby table to sit and listen to the music.

Chase greeted everyone, nodding his head or waving as they walked by. When the country band played their first slow son