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 ...