Page 63 of Sweet Madness

This time feels different.

Not long ago, my life felt vain and empty, and even this simple moment felt forced. Today it doesn’t.

I feel lighter than I have in years, and that’s because of this magical place and its equally magical grumpy owner.

Almost done with my routine, I work on my hair. With each stroke of the comb, I gently untangle my black and pink curls, coaxing them into smooth strands that fall effortlessly into place. Then, with careful precision, I gather my dampened locks, securing them at the nape of my neck. With the bun secured, I study myself on the screen. The sleekness of my hair accentuates the angles of my face, framing my features with quiet and soft confidence. A few stray curls fall around my face, softening the severity of the style and adding a touch of natural grace and gentle femininity.

Happy with my appearance, I lean closer to the screen with a smile. “This was so lovely! Thanks for hanging out with me, everyone! Remember, you’re all beautiful just the way you are, and don’t you ever forget it or let anyone tell you otherwise. Until next time!” With a wave and a blown kiss, I end the live stream, feeling uplifted by the genuine connection I have just forged with an online community that once crippled me with anxiety.

Turning away from the screen, I glance out the window, my eyes falling on the tulip fields that stretch beyond the ranch. The vibrant and breathtakingly beautiful pink color of my favorite flowers dances in the gentle breeze, their petals fluttering like a living mosaic under the summer sun.

With my eyes fixed outside the window, an idea begins to form in my mind, sparked by the beauty of the tulip fields.

With brand new excitement and happiness, I jump from the seat and almost run to the door but stop when my eyes catch sight of the small basket nestled next to a sleeping Poppy. I thought my new furry friend would be a ball of energy, and although she is at times, she would rather spend her days sleeping. I don’t blame her.

The sight melts my heart instantly. Quietly, so as not to disturb the peaceful slumber of my adorable baby goat, I approach and gently lift the basket.

With utmost tenderness, I lean down and press a soft kiss on Poppy’s forehead. “Sleep some more, sweet girl.” She stirs slightly but remains peacefully asleep, nestled in her cozy corner.

Carrying the basket with care, I leave the room, love and happiness blooming in my heart just like Shaw’s tulips.

The late afternoon sun paints the sky in soft hues of orange and pink as I stand at the edge of the vast tulip fields, my heart racing with joy and excitement. In my hands, I cradle the woven basket, its contents wrapped carefully in a white cloth.

Geraldine stands patiently beside me, her glossy white coat shimmering in the gentle breeze, while daisies are interwoven in her lovely mane. I gently adjust the bridle and saddle, ensuring everything is secure before swinging myself into the saddle. Geraldine snorts softly, as if sensing my eagerness to begin my mission here.

With a gentle nudge of my heels, I urge Geraldine forward, and we set off at a slow pace, the rhythmic sound of hooves against the earth echoing in the serene afternoon air.

I am enchanted as I take in the sight before me. The tulip fields stretch out before us like a vibrant and endless sea of pink, rows upon rows of flowers swaying gently in the breeze. I quickly close my eyes and inhale the sweet scent. The air is filled with the fragrance of blossoms, mingling with the earthy scent of the countryside.

There really isn’t anything better than this. Nothing. Not even the extravagant and lavish city lights.

As Geraldine trots deeper into the fields, my mood soars, flying above the clouds. I guide Geraldine between the rows, occasionally reaching out to pluck a perfect bloom and add it to my basket. I only stop when I have enough to fill his life and home with magical pink.

“Geraldine… I envy you,” I whisper as I pluck another flower and add it to the basket. “I wish this were my home. There’s nothing lovelier.” I smile as the brilliant horse tilts her head, as if trying to look back at me and understand the words I am saying to her.

Reaching out, I lovingly patted her soft coat. As Geraldine and I spend the afternoon collecting flowers, time passes in a tranquil blur, the only sounds being the soft murmurs of the wind and the occasional chirping of birds. Here too, I feel a sense of peace settle over me as I ride, surrounded by the beauty of Shaw’s magnificent ranch and the companionship of the sweet horse.

By the late afternoon, the basket is filled to the brim with tulips of every size imaginable. That’s when I know it’s time to head back, my heart a little heavy with the knowledge that the day’s blissful ride will soon come to an end, and I still haven’t laid eyes on the beautiful man.

Space Note

“One million earths could fit into the sun. Just like a million of you could fit in my heart.”— S

Chapter

Seventeen

MORE THAN FRIENDS

Shaw

“Nothing hurts more than a broken heart.” — S

Ispend all morning and the late afternoon mending broken fences, tending to the cattle, and ensuring everything runs smoothly at the ranch. But most of all, I spend the hours avoiding Ella and all thoughts of her. One is easy; the latter tortures the hell out of me from the moment I open my eyes this morning.

My mind keeps conjuring her image—her lips, her sparkling eyes, her perfect smile. Everything. I can’t escape her, not even in my sleep, because she even follows me there.

I get up early and start my day far from home to avoid running into her. I don’t want to get lost in those blue eyes of hers because it’s dangerous. She is dangerous.