Chapter 6

Gigi worries about introducing Jess to Rowen, but Jess arrives casual and friendly. He patiently answers Rowen’s questions about being sheriff and helps with mowing while Gigi and Rowen prepare dinner. Over the meal and a house tour, Jess remains respectful of the farmhouse, easing Gigi’s fear that he resents their presence.

Rowen declares Jess should be Gigi’s boyfriend, undermining Gigi’s plan to maintain distance. After Jess leaves, Gigi admits her attraction but resolves to stay guarded given past hurt with Rowen’s father, Nate.

In the following two weeks, Gigi and Jess settle into an easy routine of calls, texts, lunches, and dinners, often including Rowen. Although everything she learns affirms Jess’s good character, Gigi’s insecurity persists; she fears he may eventually realize he can do better.

While cleaning the old barn to store her car, Gigi is bitten by a rattlesnake. She keeps calm enough to get Rowen into the car and drive to the ER, where Everett administers antivenom and morphine. Ida occupies Rowen to keep her composed while Gigi’s adrenaline fades and pain surges.

Jess storms in, shaken and protective. Rowen leaps into his arms, revealing her fear, and Jess reassures her before promising Gigi he will handle the barn and the snake. Noting Gigi’s medication, Jess arranges to move his truck, drive them home in her car, and pick up pizza and chocolate ice cream, sealing the evening with a gentle kiss that deepens trust between them.