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was never more proud of you when I saw you accept your college diploma. We were probably the loudest group in the place. I need you to know that whatever decisions you make will somehow affect him too. This is what you signed on for when you declared your love for my best friend, or do I have to remind you of that?”
    “No.” I said, sulking.
    “Good! Because that’s a memory I don’t care to re-visit at this time. Don’t look now, but here comes the mail truck.”
    “This is it, Bro. That truck is going to have my letter on it.”
    I ran toward the mail truck before he even had a chance to stop. I think Pete knew I was anxious. I had met him at the post every day for the last month. He handed me a stack of mail and there it was, my letter from Yale Law School.
    I screamed so loud, I scared the horses.
    Jamie walked over and lifted me into his arms. He said, “Well go on, this is what you’ve been waiting for.”
    I smiled up at my brother and ripped open the envelope.
     
    Dear Ms. Fairchild,
    Congratulations! It is with great pleasure, and my honor to inform you of your admission to Yale Law School as a member of the Class of 2009. You were selected from an accomplished and academically talented group of applicants who applied. You and your classmates are truly outstanding in your achievements, and in your diversity of interests and potential. Again, congratulations on your acceptance. Please let me know if we can be of any service to you. Looking forward to seeing you on the grounds of our exemplary school.
    Yours,
    Maxwell Owen Slavish
    Director of Law School Admissions
     
    “I got in, Jamie. I did it. I’m going to Yale. This is real right? I’m not dreaming.”
    “I don’t think so, baby sis. Unless you are secretly being punk’d, this letter looks like the real deal.”
    “What’s all the commotion about?” daddy said, as he came out, he knew just by my expression. I handed him my letter, and he took me in his arms. My daddy was a tall man. When I was little, I thought he was a giant. I still needed to tilt my head to look up at him. He was strong too, so twirling me around was effortless for him. I felt cherished when my father held me. I was his princess and today, I made him proud. His eyes were glassy, but he shrugged it off. Cowboys don’t cry.
    “You did it, baby girl. I never had a doubt in my mind. Maybe one day I’ll hire you to oversee ranch business.” He looked over to my brother, but now with a touch of sadness. I quickly brushed off the weird vibe and hugged my father again.
    “Thank you, daddy. I love you. Thank you for making this possible.”
    “I didn’t do anything, baby girl. Your determination and good smarts got you into that school. It is a check worth writing. You are worth every penny.”
    “Okay, okay, no need to butter me up. I’ll do your work pro-bono.”
    “That’s my girl, but you can bill me, I’m good for it,” he replied.
    We all laughed. This was one memory I would hold onto forever.
    “Tell mama I’ll be home later. I’m going to find Jagger.”
    “Now, honey, don’t go breaking that boy’s heart now.”
    I wanted to laugh, but my daddy and Jamie looked nothing but serious at the moment. What were they hiding? I had no time to think about it. I was way too happy to think about anything else.
    Everything was perfect. I just got into my dream school. Jamie was still doing great and was in remission. All was perfect in my world. I just wanted to share my news with Jagger and hoped he would be happy for me.
    I drove as fast as I could to his ranch. His father ripped into me on my driving, but then he hugged me after I told him about my letter. He was a bear of a man. Muscle from head to toe from the years of working the ranch. I asked excitedly if Jagger was home, and I was told he was mending fences out on the north pasture. His father allowed me to take one of the ATVs out as long as I wore my helmet and drove safely. I crossed my heart and