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Jamie wanted to give me something special for my 25th birthday and asked Claire for advice.

Jamie: “Take a look at this, Claire. Gillian’s birthday is coming up. I want to give her something truly special. The Andalusian mare is three years old, excellent bloodlines. She could even be used for breeding.”

Claire: “Wow! You’re giving Gillian a horse? And Epico would become the breeding stallion? Gillian has been thinking about expanding her breeding program — she would absolutely love this mare.”

They drove to the ranch where the horse was for sale. Claire was immediately captivated by the property.

Claire: “Jamie, this place is a dream! Exactly how I’d imagine my own ranch — if I had one. It looks a little run-down though. It would need a lot of work.”

Jamie: “Yes, it’s beautiful. It’s actually for sale, as far as I know. That’s why the owner is selling the horses too. Thanks for coming — your opinion means a lot to me.”

The seller, Ed Field, joined them as they looked at the mare in the pasture.

Ed Field: “She’s lightly backed. She still needs training. Health check and X-rays are done. Let’s head inside.”

Claire: “She makes a very good impression. Strong muscles, beautiful movement… I think you’ve found your special gift, Jamie.”

Jamie: “If the vet check is good and we agree on a fair price, then you’ve sold a horse today.”

Claire couldn’t stop admiring the property.

Claire: “This place is wonderful. May I look around? Why are you selling?”

Ed Field: “My father ran this ranch, but he couldn’t manage anymore and now lives in a retirement home. I’m a restaurateur — this isn’t my world. Feel free to look around.”

The moment Claire had driven onto the ranch, she had fallen in love with it. For years, she had dreamed of building something of her own. Working with horses — her way. Living there with a man she loved. Starting a family someday. She loved Meadowland. But she could imagine this ranch becoming her future home. A few days later, Claire asked John to inspect the property with her and evaluate what it would take to turn it into an equestrian center.

Claire: “So John, what do you think? Worth it — or a bottomless pit?”

John: “The foundation is solid. The stables would need a full rebuild. The house needs some repairs. I’d be in. But you’d have to invest.”

Claire reviewed all documents Ed had sent her. John provided a cost estimate — the stables would be the biggest expense, but they could be renovated step by step. She wanted to think carefully. Ed assured her there was no rush — he’d be busy clearing things out for weeks anyway. Claire was spontaneous by nature. After days of thinking, she made her decision: Now or never. A few weeks later, she signed the purchase contract at the notary’s office.

Notary: “Miss Riverton, congratulations on your new property. Mr. Field, I’ll send you the invoice.”

Ed Field: “I had a feeling you would say that.”

Claire: “Gentlemen, that settles it. It was a pleasure.”

She had really done it. She bought the ranch. Her heart was racing — not from fear, but from joy. She had taken the next step toward the future she had always dreamed of. For now, she wanted to keep it quiet. But she had a plan. She would ride there with Rowan and tell him the big news. And not only that. For days, she had been planning their first real date — and this was the perfect opportunity. She picked him up at the estate.

Claire: “Hey Rowan, I thought I’d take you on a spontaneous riding date. What could possibly go wrong?”

Rowan: “Wow, our first official date! Of course I’m in — but only if I’m allowed to treat you to ice cream afterward.”

They rode toward the Eastern Slopes. From above, the ranch stretched out before them in all its beauty. Claire’s heart beat faster at the sight.

Claire: “Isn’t this property wonderful? The location, the style — simply breathtaking. I heard it’s for sale.”

Rowan: “Claire, please. Only an idiot would buy that old wreck out here.”

Oh. That hit Claire hard. If only an idiot would buy that “old wreck”… then Rowan would be exactly the right one.