TheSheriff’sMail-OrderBride

AWatsonBrotherRomance

AnnB.Harrison

TheSheriff’sMail-OrderBride

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ChapterOne

“Y

COULD

alotworse,youknow.”

RoryWatsonlistenedtohisbrotherspeaking,doubtinhismindashestoodatthefencelookingatthe

shamblesthatremainedofanoldranchcottage.HewonderedifChancehadtakenmoreofaknocktothe
headthanthey’dthoughtwhenTerrorthebullchargedhimafewmonthsagoandlefthiminthehospital
withswellingofthebrain.

“It’sgotgreatbonesandI’dhavetocallthatcharacter,thewayit’slooking.”Chancepointedatthe

front awning and the elegant lean it had over the doorway, shading the rotting boards on the porch.
“Seriously,itwouldcleanuprealgood.There’splentyoflandsoyou’llneverfeelhemmedin.Thehouse
isbigenoughforyouandyourladyifyougethitchedagain.Andifyouwantawholetribeofkids,you
canaddon.”

“Youmakeitsoundsoeasy.”Therenovationwouldnodoubtbetheeasiestpart.Hewasn’taboutto

tellhisbrotherthatandstartyetanotherlongdrawnoutconversationaroundhisdeceasedwifeandlonely
existence,hisself-inflictedpunishmentforbeingtheoneleftalive.Andcertainlynotwhenhealreadyhad
somethingintheworks.

“I thought you were ready to let go and start living again. Isn’t that why you came back home?”

Chancedirectedhisgazetotheoldfenceandpickedatthepetalsofthepalepinkroseramblingalongthe
topwire.

“Iam.OratleastIthinkIam.Somedaysitfeelsright,somedaysnotsomuch.”Helookedattheold

houseagainandpushedopenthegate,carefulnottoletitfallfromitsrustyhinges.Tolowertherisk,he
leaneditbackagainstthericketypicketfence.Thepathuptotheporchwassetwithold,flatriverstones
whichhecouldbarelymakeoutamongthetallweeds,apoorexcuseforwhatusedtobethefrontpatchof
lawn.

Hesteppedupontotheporch,andthedrytimbermovedprecariouslyunderhisweight.Roryglanced

athisbrother,stillnotconvinced.“Needsaheapofwork.”

“Sureitdoes.That’swhyyou’regettingitsodamnedcheap.”Chancerestedhisbootonthetopstep

andleanedontheporchpost.“Wecanallhookinandhelpout.Havethisplacelookinglikenewinno
time.Besides,it’snotasifyou’resnowedunderwithdatesonyourdaysoff,right?”

Rory turned and glanced at him, surprised at his brother’s optimism. “Right.” He couldn’t keep the

disbelief from his voice. The setting was sure pretty though. Nestled in the shadow of the Copper
Mountain,itstwohundredacresranalongtheedgeoftheMariettaRiver,thepineforestontheopposite
bank. The other bonus was the closeness to town and to Chance’s ranch. Tyson, their younger brother,
livedjustdownoverthehill,hishorseranchbuttinguptotheboundarylineofthisproperty.Rorycould
stillcommutetoworkasMarietta’sdeputysheriffandgetawayfromitalltohisownplacewhenhewas
offduty.

Empty for the last two or three years, the old house stood shadowed in the cloak of neglect that

shroudedthewholeplace.Thewindowsweremostlyintact,althoughafewpanesofglasswerebroken.
Painthadpeeledfromthetimberboards,givingthebuildinganunloved,almostghostlylook.

Downpastthehouse,almosthiddenunderacreepervinethreateningtopullittotheground,stoodan

old barn. It had looked sturdy enough on further inspection, as did the stables attached to one side. He

couldcleanthemupandsolongastheroofwassafe,hewouldbehappy.It’dbenicetohavehisown
horseagain.

Aroundthebackofthebarnhe’ddiscoveredapigpenandachickencoop,bothfilledwithsomeone

else’sgarbageandyearsworthofdeadanddecayedleaflitter.Whatappearedtobeanoldorchardlay
hiddenunderkneehighweedsandcreeperscoveringmostlyunidentifiedfruittreesstrugglingtosurvive.

Butitwastheamountofworkneededontheoldhousethatconcernedhimthemost.Rory’sshoulders

sankatthethoughtofcleaningtheoldplaceupwhiletryingtoholddownhisdemandingjobintown.“I
can’tliveinthathouselikethat.”

“I don’t expect you to. Get it fixed up before you move in. It probably needs rewiring and new

plumbinganyway”HegrinnedandslappedRoryontheshoulder.“Youhaveahomewithusforaslongas
youlike;youknowthat.Iwouldn’tmakeyoumoveinhereuntilit’sbeencleanedoutanyway.Hell,ifyou
don’tstaywithus,youknowI’donlygetanearfulfromCallie.Sheloveshavingyouaround.Ithinkshe
misseshersistersinAustraliamorethansheletson.”

“AreyousureI’mnotintheway?”Helookedathisbrotherforanysignofdiscontent.He’dthoughtof

takingaroomattheGraffHotelwhenhe’ddecidedtocomehomebutheknewChancewouldprotestso
hedidn’tmentionit.

“Ofcoursenot.Iwouldn’tcareifyoustayedthereforever,butyousaidyouwantedyourownplace,

so I figured you might like to see this one.” Chance stepped up onto the porch and pushed wide the
partiallyopendoor.Heduckedhisheadwhenaswallowflewout,itswingsclosetohisface.“Sheesh,
justabouttooktenyearsoffmylife.Wonderwhatotherwildlifeislivinginhere?”

“Letmegofirst.I’lldomybesttosaveyoufromanythingbigandscary.”Rorylaughedandbrushed

pasthisolderbrother.Raggedblindsletsliversoflightinsidetheotherwisedarkhouse.Oldfurniturelay
piledupinseveralroomsalongwithscatteredbelongingsandyearsofgarbage.Birddroppingspiledon
thefloorsunderneathlightfittingsthatmadeconvenientperches.Itlookedasthoughwhoeverlivedthere
lasthadjustpickeduptheirkeysandwalkedoutoneday,leavingthehousetonaturetodealwith.

“Thisisgoingtotakesomeworkjusttoclearoutallofthestufftheyleftbehind,tosaynothingofthe

animals’litter.”

“Not like there is much else to do besides work, is there? You could always bulldoze it down and

startfresh.Beashamethough,there’sboundtobesomehistoryhereandit’snotlikeyou’reinahurryor
anything.”

Rory glanced back at Chance, his left eyebrow raised in question. He wasn’t quite ready to let on

abouttheadhe’dplacedinthepaperlookingforawife.IfChancecouldgothatrouteandfindsomeone
asniceasCallie,therewashopeforRory.Truthbetold,itwastheonlyreasonhewouldcontemplate
doingsomethingsostupid.It’dworkedlikemagicforhisbigbrotherandhisAussiewife,itmightjust
workforhimtoo.

Afterignoringthegentlehintsfromhisworkcolleaguestosignuponadatingsite,he’dchewedover

theideaoffollowinginhisbrother’sfootstepsbeforefinallybitingthebullet.Hewaswaitingtoseeif
anyone else answered and then he’d make up his mind if he was going to go ahead with it. There was
alwaystheoptiontooptoutifhegotcoldfeet,butfromthesoundofhervoicehewasintrigued.

He’d watched how Callie and Chance fit together as husband and wife and the hole in his heart

yearnedtobefilledwiththatkindofloveandlaughteragain.Beingfaithfultohisdeadwife’smemory
couldonlykeephimwarmforsolong,andthattimewasquicklyfadingaway.Rorywantedafleshand
bloodwifeinhisbed,notadreamoratripdownmemorylane.

Fromthetimehe’dmetCallie,he’dbeenimpressedwithhergo-forthattitude.Downonherluckafter

herparentswerekilledinavehicleaccident,she’dansweredanadvertisementChancehadplacedina

magazineandtravelledhalfwayaroundtheworldtomarryamanshe’dnevermet.

Itworkedforthem,itcouldworkforhimtooifhewashalfaslucky.Heprayedhewasbecausethe

timewasrightforchange.

Chance nudged him and laughed. “Come on, don’t look at me like that. You know you can do this.

Mightgetyououtofthedoldrums,too.Giveyouanewpurposeinlife.Thenyoucouldgoaboutfinding
yourselfawife.”

INA

AYLOR

DROVE

toward the small town in Marietta, desperately praying for her gas not to run out

beforeshecouldgettothesmallcottagethatwasheronlyhopeofadecentfuture.Herbabyboy,Fisher,
sleptpeacefullyinhiscarseatinthebackofthestationwagonwithbagscontainingtheirbelongingspiled
uparoundhim,chubbylittlehandsgrippedontohisbatteredtoydog.

It’dbeenalongarduoustripfromSanFranciscotowhereshewasnow,andoneshedidn’twantto

makeagainanytimesoon.They’donlystoppedfortoiletbreaksandfoodalongthedrivejusttostretchher
legsandstopherdozingoff.Theeighteen-hourdrivehadbeenmorethanshe’dbargainedfor,andGina
didn’thavethemoneyforahotelevenifshe’dwantedtostop.Shewantedtogettoherdestinationand
seeifshe’dmadetheworstdecisionofherlifeor,bysomeslimchance,theverybest.It’dbeenrashto
takethismanonhiswordbutwhatchoicedidshehave?Hersavingshadrundry.Thepart-timejobhad
cometoanendalongwithherabilitytopayrentontheoverpricedroomsinthetumbled-downshackshe
calledhome.

Herfuturehadlookedbleakuntilshepickeduptheday-oldnewspaperinthelaundromatandscanned

thepageswhilewaitingforFisher’sclothestowash.

Itwastimefordrasticmeasuresandthiswouldhavetobethemostoutrageousthingshe’deverdone.

EvendecidingtohaveFisherandbringhimuponherownhadn’tgivenhersuchabadcaseofnervesas
thistriphad.Everymileshecovered,Ginachangedhermind.Didshedotherightthing?Couldthisbe
theworstdecisionever?Couldsheturnaroundandgobacktonothing?Sheliftedherheadassheheard
movementfromthebackseat.

Sheglancedintherear-visionmirror.Fishermadesuckingnoiseswithhislips,stirring,whichmeant

hewouldneedadiaperchangeandadrink,soanotherstop,hopefullythelast,wasonthecards.

TheywerejustcomingintothesmalltownofMarietta,Montana,population10,541.Plusthetwoof

us,ifthingsgotoplan.Shewasalmostattheaddresshe’dgivenher.Anotherhalfanhourorsoandthey
wouldcomefacetofacewiththeirfuture.Itwastoolatetobackoutnowevenifshewantedto.Ginahad
madeuphermindwhensheheardhimspeakoverthephoneaftermakinginitialcontactthroughthemail,
even after the grainy photo he sent made her heart buzz. He was very good looking and she wondered
againwhyhewouldadvertiseforawiferatherthangoontheusualdatingscene.

There had to be more to this man than he shared in their conversation. The deep, rich sound of his

voiceluredherintoanothertimeandplace.Onewhereshefeltsafeandsecure.Asachild,she’dsitfor
hourslisteningtoherfatherspeakinhisslow,deepSoutherndrawl.Avoicethatcouldeasilylullherto
sleepifshewasfretting.

Herfuturehusbandpossessedthesamevoice.Howincrediblyriskytotakeonamanbythesoundof

thatalone.Shedidn’tknowwhatherfatherwouldthinkofitifhecouldseehernow.Inallreality,ifher
fatherwasalive,shewouldn’tbeinthisposition.Hewouldhavetakenherinassoonashe’dfoundout
her loser boyfriend was dead and she was pregnant, alone, with no money. Truth be told, he would
probablyhaveinsistedshemovebackhomeassoonasshefoundoutshewaspregnantbecausehewould

havecaredforher,unlikethemanwhoputherinthisposition.

Ginapulledthecaroveratthefirstsafespotshecameto.Asmallparkwassetbackfromtheroad

nexttoanelementaryschoolandsheindicatedandpulledover.Thesmallparkboastedaplaygroundand
toilets and appeared to be empty apart from an old lady sitting on the bench feeding the flock of birds
flappingaroundherfeet.Ginastoppedthecar,gotout,andopenedthebackdoorjustasherbabyblinked
hisbigbrowneyeswide.Hesmiledatherinthewaythatmeltedherheart.

“Mama,up.”FisherheldouthisarmsandGinaundidthestrapsreleasingthelittleboyfromhiscar

seat. She hooked him up on her hip and slammed the door before walking into the park. In a spot of
sunshine,shecroucheddownonthegrassandsatwithhersononherlapwatchingthebirdsflutteraround
theoldwomanthrowingbreadcrumbstoherfeatheredfriends.

Fisherstoodupand,withoutlettinggoofhistoydog,totteredovertothebirds.Theyscatteredand

flewashortdistancetotheothersideoftheoldlady.Hisfacescrewedupandhestartedtocry.

“Here,youfeedthemandthey’llcomeback.”Theladysmiledandencouragedhimtotakethebread

sheheldout.Ginasatbackandwatchedashersonwaspatientlyshownthebestwaytofeedthenoisy
sparrows.Whenhethrewthebreadthelittlebirdscamebackandhesquealedindelight.Oncethecrumbs
wereallgone,thebirdsflewaway,mostofthemintothetreesinthepark.

“Thankyouforbeingsokindtohim.”Ginastoodandwalkedtogetherbabyboy.
“Nowwhatwouldtheworldbeifkindnessdisappeared?He’sacutelittlething.Youpassingthrough,

areyou?”HerdarkeyeslatchedontoGinaasshewaitedforananswer.

“Uh,no.ActuallyI’mmovingtotown.”
“Well that’s good to hear. We might see you again, little one.” The old lady ruffled Fisher’s blond

curlsandwavedafrailhandasshewalkedaway,leaningonacanewitheachstepshetook.

“Let’s get you cleaned up, my love, and find our new home.” She scooped her baby up and hurried

backtothecartogetacleandiaperandadrink.Whentheyweredone,sheclippedhimbackintothecar
seatforthefinallegofthejourney.Ginacheckedtheaddressagainbeforeturningbackontotheroad.She
glancedattheGet’n’Goandthegasstation,wishingshehadthemoneytograbacoffeeorputagallonof
gasinhercartoseethemsafelythroughtown.

On the other side of the train track, a large hotel stood proudly and behind it she glimpsed quaint

shopsbunchedtogetherwithplentyofparkingoutfront.Theylookedliketheywerestilllostinanother
timewherethepaceoflifewaseasierandlesshurried.Perhapsshewouldbeabletocomebackandvisit
themonceherlifewassortedoutandsheknewtheywerestaying.

Gina drove slowly looking at as much as she could while not getting too distracted and lost. She

pausedatacrossingandwaitedforthewaytoclearbeforedrivingon.

Shespiedadinerwhichonlymadeherfeelhungrylookingatit.Butaglanceathergasgaugemade

hergrimace,knowingshedidn’thavethetimeorgastodawdleintown.Hermeagerstoreoffoodinthe
backofthecarwouldhavetosuffice.Therewasn’tmoneyforfoodtheydidn’tneed.Oncethegasgauge
hittheemptymark,Ginaestimatedshecouldtravelanothertentofifteenmilesbeforehercarcametoa
grindinghalt.Ifshekeptherspeedsteadyanddidn’thavetostopagain,theymightjustmakeit.

She crossed over the river, headed out of town, and followed the directions Rory had given her to

theirnewhome.

Aleaningsignpostmarkedtheroadtoherfutureandshesuckedinabigbreathbeforeturningin.The

butterfliesinherstomachthreatenedtoriseupandchokeher.Whatifhewasacreepyserial-killertype?
Howwasshegoingtosleepatnightuntilshegottoknowwhathewaslike?Sheshouldneverhavegone
alongwiththiscrazyideaofmail-orderbrides.Sowhatifstatisticsprovedthatthemajorityofarranged
marriageslastedlongerthantheheadyrushofloveandlustmostpeoplegaveinto?

Shehadnochoicebuttobelievethetaleshe’dtoldheroverthephone.Desperatetohaveahomefor

herselfandherbaby,Ginahadchosentoaccepteverythinghesaidatfacevalue.Ifshe’daskedherboss
to use the computer and Google her prospective husband, he probably would have deducted her wages
andthatwasn’tfeasiblerightnow.Itwillallworkout,ithasto.

SheglancedintherearvisionmirrorandwatchedasFishertalkedtohisdog,thejumbleofwords

goingashortwaytosootheherfrazzlednerves.Itwasforthelittlecherubinthebackseatthatshehad
packedeverythingtheyownedintothestationwagonanddrivenoverlandtoaplaceshe’dneverbeento
before,tomakeanewlife.

Ginasawapropertyupahead,itsroofpeekingoutthroughthetrees,andwonderedifitwashernew

home.Howwashegoingtorespondtoherarrivaltoday?Fourdaysaheadoftheiragreedtimeandshe
hadn’tlethimknow,tooscaredincasehechangedhismind.She’dbeokay,shehadtobe.Herandher
baby’sfuturewasatstakehereandshehadtomakethiswork.

Beforeshegotagoodviewofthehouse,hercarmissedandhiccupped.“No,no,no!”Thelightonthe

gas gauge flashed at her and, with a final cough, the car died. With no option left to her, Gina scooped
Fisheroutofhiscarseatandslungherhandbagoverhershoulderbeforeshestartedwalkingupthedusty
road.Theypassedovergrownpaddocks,thefencesbrokenwithtwistedwirespulleddownbyweedsto
layuselessontheground.Asshepuffeduptothetopoftherise,thecottagesheglimpsedearliercame
intofullview.Overgrownanduntidy,thegardenwasamessofplantsandweeds,itssmallfencealmost
layingbackdownontheovergrownlawn,partlyheldupwiththeramblingpinkrosebushgrowingwild.
Thegatewasthemostuprightpartofthestructure.Shedoubteditwouldwithstandastrongwind.

Ginacaughtherbreathwhenshedrewcloseenoughtoseethecottageproperly.Whathadlookedlike

brownpaintwasinfactbaretimber.Theoldwhitepainthadpeeledfrommostofthewoodenboardsand
lay blown over the porch like sad confetti flakes. She stood at the gate, anger building in her chest as
realitysetin.

Thetripoverherehadbeenasham.Therewasnohometogoto;nobodywaitingtomeether.What

had possessed her to take the timbre of a man’s voice as proof he would be someone she could trust?
Desperate times had seemed like she needed to take desperate measures. She was no longer sure of
anything.Nowtherewasthequestionofwhatshewasgoingtodo.Withasmallchild,andenoughfoodto
lastthemthreeorfourdaystops.Don’tforgetthatshehadnomoney,nogasinhercar,andnowheretogo;
shewaswellandtrulystuck.

Howdarehelieandhavemedrivinghalfwayacrossthecountrytoarriveat…atthisbloodyrun-

downheapofaplacethatdeservednomorethanamatchandacanofgasoline.I’dmadeapromise
forthis?Ginastampedherfootinfury,makingFisherstart.

“Sorrybaby,butseriously,howlowcanyouget?Thedamnmongrel,lying…”Shebithertongue,lest

sheswearin frontofher child.Hewould pickupa newword inasecond andasmuch asRorymight
deservetoberailedat,itwouldn’tcomefromherboy.

Right,getyourselfoutofthisonethen,Gina.
Shesquaredhershouldersandliftedherchin.Itwasnobetterthanwhatthey’dleftbehindbutinall

truthitprobablywasn’tanyworseeither.Funnyhowtheimpressionshe’dgottenofRorydidn’tleadher
tobelievetheywouldliveinanythinglikewhatshestoodinfrontofnow.“Welcometoournewhome,
Fisher.” Rory’s photo showed a different house, she knew it did but that might have been because he
thoughtshewouldn’tcometothisdump.Let’sseewhatyoucansalvagefromthisstuffup.

There wasn’t a car in the driveway which probably meant he wasn’t home or they had the wrong

house.Shepulledhernotebookfromthehandbagandcheckedthenumberontheletterboxagainstit.Yes,
this—as much as she wanted to think otherwise—was the right house. With any luck Rory would be at

workandshewouldhaveachancetoinvestigatebeforehearrived.

Used to seeing the best in everything, she paused and looked around knowing she’d need all the

enthusiasm she could rally for this blunder. The garden was a mess, overgrown plants that should have
been pruned had pulled down the front fence, their winding tendrils holding it fast. That would hardly
keepFisherintheyardbutstillitwasabigimprovementonwhatshe’dleftbehind.Thatgardenwasonly
aconcreteslab.“Let’sgoandhavealookinside,mylittleman.”

She held onto him and walked down the garden path, burrs clinging to her skirt as she passed. The

first step on the veranda groaned when Gina placed a foot on it and she tested it out by pressing on it
firmly before placing her trust in the old timber. “They could use replacing. And a decent lick of paint
wouldn’tgoastray.”

Awornarmchairsatoutside,fadedfromthesunandcoveredindust,thearmrestsfrayedandtufted.

Sheglancedatit,wishingitwascleanenoughforhertosinkinto.Acupoftea,acomfychair,andabook
soundedliketheperfectwaytowatchthesungodownafterthatmammothdrive.Sadly,thatwasn’tabout
tohappen.Notwithoutamajorspruceupfirst.

Ginaknockedonthedoor.“Hello.”Shereachedforthehandle,turneditandwaitedforsomeoneto

reefitoutofherhandsbutnobodydid.Shepushedthedooropenandlookeddownthegloomyhallway.
“Anyonehome?Hello.”

Theonlynoiseshecouldhearwasthedripofatapcomingfromaroomattheotherendofthehouse.

Theroomtotherightofthefrontdoorappearedtobealounge.Anoldsetteesatinfrontofafireplace,
old newspapers and magazines piled high leaving virtually no room for anyone to sit. Tattered curtains
hung at the windows, shading out the afternoon sun. The cobwebs laced across the dirty glass and she
shuddered.

Thestillnessofthehousemadeherfeelbraver,knowingshewasn’tgoingtosuddenlycomefaceto

facewiththemanwho’dbroughtherallthisway.Atleastfornowshewouldhavetimetoinvestigateher
new surroundings. If he was on day shift, Gina calculated she’d have about three hours before Rory
arrivedhome.Plentyoftimeforhertosettleinandformulateaplan.

Sheturnedtotheotherroomthatfacedtheroad.Thebedroom.Pricklesranupherskinbutshepushed

the sudden wave of panic down. An old wrought-iron bed sat in the middle of the room, its checkered
blanketcoveredindust.Ayellowedpillowlayonthefloor.

“Justaswellwebroughtourownbedding,Fisher.Thisisdisgusting.IthinkIlikeoursbetter.”She

chuckedhimunderthechinandwatchedhimchortlewithlaughter.

Aboxsatontheendofthebed.Whenshepeeredinside,itwastofindapileofclothesfoldedand

remarkably neat. Coat hangers where thrown in a heap on the bed. A wardrobe stood open, its shelves
nowbareapartfromadustypairofbootslyinginthebottom.Hadhedecidedtoclearouthisclothingto
giveherspace?HowincrediblyChristianofhim.

“Let’sgoandseetherestofthehouse,shallwe?Thenwecanstartunloadingthecar.”That’sgoingto

befun,hikingeverythingupthehillonmyown.WhyohwhydidIagreetothis?

Because you had no choice, that’s why. Stop moaning and get over it, Gina. Make the best of a

filthysituation.

“Oh my goodness.” She stood in front of the stove. Caked in baked-on grime, the ancient enamel

monstrosityglaredatherfromitspositionintheavocado-greenkitchen.Sheturnedandtookinthewhole
space.Anoldwoodentabletookupthemiddleoftheroom,itsthreemismatchedchairstuckedunderto
givetheownerroomtomoveinthekitchen.Ginareachedforthefoldednewspaper,herhandbrushing
against the empty soda can and a screwed-up lunch wrapper. Seems as though someone doesn’t know
howtocleanupafterhimself.

Redpencaughtherattention.Inthecornerofthefrontpage,someonehaddrawnaheartwithanarrow

throughit.Hernamewasinkedinsidetheheart.Soshedidhavetherightplace,therightperson.Thatwas
goodnewsatleast.ButwhattroubledherthemostwastheabsenceofRory’snamealongwithhers.It
wouldseemshewasgoingtohavetoworkharderthanshethoughttowinthismanover.

Thedrippinggratedonhernerves,distractingherfromthechildishdoodlingandshereachedoverto

turnthetapoffproperly,onlytofindthatitmusthaveawornwasherandwatercontinuedtodripintothe
sink.

“Icouldfixthat—ifIhadawasher,thatis.”Theoverheadcupboardsheldamixedarrayofdishesthat

didn’tmatch.Shereachedforacup,checkedthatitwasclean,andputitunderthedrippingtap.“Waste
not, want not.” The whole kitchen needed a good scrubbing down. It was a pity she didn’t have any
ammoniainhercar.She’dbleacheverysinglesurface.Typicalbachelor’shome.Onlythebarebasicsand
nonetooclean.

Onthecounter,abucketofcleaninggoods,scouringpads,andragsstoodreadyforuseasifsomeone

haddecidedtodaywouldbeagreatdayforcleaningbutthoughtbetterofitandwalkedoffwithoutputting
itaway.Shelookedforthefridgebutcouldonlyfindthedirtymarkonthefloorwhereithadoncebeen.
Maybehewasintheprocessofbuyinganewone.Shecouldalwayshope.

Thehousewascertainlyoldandinbadrepairbutstillitdidn’tseemtobetheendoftheworld.What

they’dleftbehindwasprobablyworse.Sheliftedherheadandlookedattheceiling.Atleasttherewere
nowatermarkstoshowheritleakedliketheirprevioushomedideverytimeitrained.Thankgoodness
forsmallmercies.

“Okay,almostdonewiththetour.What’sthisroomthen?”Ginapushedopenasmallbi-folddoorand

stepped into a bathroom. The same avocado green had been used in there as well. “Fashion statement,
not.” Dirty towels were heaped on the floor in the corner of the room, musty with mold marks. They’d
obviouslybeenthereforalongtime.Thismanwasgoingtoneedtolearnathingortwoaboutcleaningup
afterhimself.Ginadidn’tmindworkinghardbuttherewasnoneedforlaziness.Rorywasanadultafter
all.

She shuddered when she spotted the dirty ring around the bath and the rusty stain from another

drippingtap.Youwouldhavethoughthe’dhavefixedthewashersagesago.Howhardcoulditbe?

ChapterTwo

ORY

LOOKED

his watch. If Gina had her timing right, she would be at the ranch about now. He’d

thoughtaboutgettinghertomeethimhereintownanddecidedthegossipmillwouldhaveafieldday.It
wasbadenoughthathealreadycausedastirbycomingbacktotheplaceofhisbirthwithoutthewifethe
locals knew he’d left with. Telling the tale of her death was hard but a necessary conversation. The
sympathy had been more than he wanted, and being in the position he was—the new deputy sheriff—it
was impossible to be rude and brush their concerns for his feelings away. They were only trying to be
kindafterall.

The last thing he needed was for the locals to find out he’d decided to follow in his brother’s

footsteps and advertise for a wife rather than the old-fashioned way of picking her using emotions and
calculations and the dating process. Rory didn’t have the heart to date girl after girl to find one who
wouldappealtohimlongaftertheheatofpassionfaded.Someonewithfamilycommitmentsandvalues
thesameashiswasmoreimportantthanthatinitialshotoflustthatcouldquicklybesnuffedoutforany
numberofreasons.Takingalistofhiswantsandneedsonadateandgettinghertofillinaquestionnaire
didn’tseemtherightthingtodoeither,butthiswayitallslottedtogetherwithouttheembarrassmentof
doingitfacetoface.

Gina had sounded perfect for him. A little shy perhaps, in desperate need of a change of pace and

scenery. She didn’t subscribe to the night clubs and restaurant scene, preferring to cook at home and
createtheirownuniquememories.Orsoshe’dsaid.Everythingshefilledinwasinaccordancewithwhat
hewantedfortherestofhislife.Familyandhomewerewhathemissedmorethananythingandhe’ddo
whateverittooktogetthatbackagain.

To test out her commitment, Rory had told her to meet him at the ranch. Her reaction to the old run

downplacewouldgivehimagoodindicationofwhetherornotshewastellinghimthetruth.Ifsheturned
her nose up and ran, so be it. He’d admit he’d made a mistake and would have to look again. No loss
exceptperhapstimeanddreams.Hehadhopedtofinishcleaningupabitmorebutworkhadgotteninthe
way.Thelastweekhadbeendoubleshiftswithnochanceoftimetohimself.Nevermind.She’deither
likeitorhateit.Thegarbagewouldhardlymakemuchdifferenceintheschemeofthings.

WhenCindyhadthoughtshewaspregnanthe’dbeenoverthemoon.Consideringhimselftonowbeon

theouteredgeoffatherhoodage,hehadn’twantedtowaitanylongerforhiswifetoconceive.Ginahad
expressed her intention of having children too, so that made her an ideal person for a partner. If it all
turnedoutthewayhewanteditto.

Rory walked out of the sheriff’s office and climbed into his truck. His pulse started to race and he

grinnedtohimself.Hehadn’tfeltthiswayforalongtime—keenandexcitedtospendtimewithawoman.
Hopefulthisdaywouldendonahappynote,Roryheadedtotheranchhe’dboughtwiththeprospectof
turningitintoafamilyhome.

Hewhistledasheturneduptheroadandkepthiseyeoutforhervehicle.Justbeforehecametothe

cornerbeforethefinalrise,hespiedacarsittinginthemiddleoftheroadandpulledover.Heclimbed
outofhistruckandwalkeduptoit,wonderingwhatcausedthedrivertostopinthemiddleoftheroad.
Therewasanemptychild’scarseatinthebackandthedriver’sdoorhungopen,thekeyshanginginthe
ignition.Hissenseswereonhighalertashescopedtheareaforcluesofascuffleorforcedremoval.

Rorywalkedbacktohistruck,climbedbackinanddrovepastthecar,takinganoteoftheregistration

platessohecouldcallitinifhedidn’tcomeacrosstheowner.Whentheoldcottagecameintoview,he
slowed. A woman in a flowing red skirt and white blouse stood in the garden with a child on her hip
staringathishouse,abunchofwildflowersinherhand.

SOUND

atruckpullingupstartledherandshewipedahandacrosshereyesbeforeturningaround.

He’shere,ofcourseheis.Todayisthedayweweresupposedtomeet.

GinasquaredhershouldersandheldontoFisherasshemetthegazeofthemanheadingherway.
“Ma’am,isthatyourcardowntheroad?”Thedeputysheriffwalkedupandstoppedjustinfrontof

her. She had to look up to see his face when he was this close. The Stetson shaded his eyes, but she
noticedthewayherbodystoodtoattentioninhispresence.

“Yes,I’msorry,Iranoutofgas.”Sheliftedherchin,determinednottolethernervesgetthebetterof

her.She’dcomealongway,workedherbuttoffcleaninghishousealreadyandtherewasnowayshewas
goingtolethimrunheroutoftown.

“AreyoubyanychanceMs.GinaTaylor?”
“Yes,that’sme.”Whoelsewoulddothisforyou?Herewego.Ourfirstbighurdle,Fisher.Timeto

startplayingnice.

“I’mDeputySheriffRoryWatson.Youdidn’ttellmeyouhadachildthough,ma’am,whenweagreed

onthisdealwehave.”

“Youdidn’ttellmeyoulivedinadumpeither,Deputy,soIguessthatmakesusabouteven,don’tyou

think?”Herpatiencehadrunout.Afterthelongdrive,runningoutofgas,andseeingthehouseshewas
supposedtolivein,thedaysscrubbingandpolishing,shenolongercaredtobepolitetothismanwho’d,
inhermind,rippedheroffbypromisinganeasierlifeandinsteaddeliveredacrushingblow.Sure,she’d
arrived earlier than what they’d planned but if she’d stayed in the city, that would have meant another
week’s rent. Something Gina could ill afford. Instead she’d brought food to last them until today and
hopeditwouldallworkout.Andjustwherehadhebeenthelastfourdays?Fancyleavingherhereby
herselfwonderingaboutherfuture.

“Yes,wellIcanexplainthat,I’mnotsurehowyoucanexplainawayachildyoufailedtomention.”
“Oh can you just? I doubt it.” The skin on the back of her neck prickled and her temper fired up a

notch.“Youknow,ifIhadanychoiceIwouldhave.Buthere’sthething,Ineededsomethingandsodid
you,otherwiseyouwouldn’thaveputthatstupidadinthepaper.Ianswereditforbetterorforworseand
nowhereIam.Readyandwillingtobeyourwifeandlookwhatyouhavetoofferme.”Thetearswelled
inhereyesevenasshetriedtoholdthembackandsheturnedfromhim.ThisistheworstthingI’veever
doneinmywholelife.Ifheturnsusaway,wheretheheckarewegoingtosleeptonight?HowamI
goingtofeedmybaby?Asrealityhithomehard,Ginaknewshehadnochoice.Shetookadeepbreath,
countedtoten,andcalmedherself.“Icameheretomarryyou.IfIhadthemoneytostaywhereIwas,I
wouldhavedoneso,savingusboththeembarrassmentofliesandsubterfuge.”

“Nowlistenhere,Ihaven’tliedtoyou.”
Gina could hear the defensive tone rising in his voice. She didn’t care and turned on him, her tears

forgotten.“Ohyesyoudid.Youtoldmeyouhadahomeanditsureashellwasn’tthisone.It’sobvious
webothliedandI’msorryaboutthat,butdon’tyoudareputalltheblameonmyshoulders.”

He glanced at her, swallowed, and turned away. Don’t send us away just yet, please give us a

chance.WhatdoIhavetodotomakeyoukeepyouragreement?Themanappearedtobearguingwith

himselfandGinawatchedthemusclesinhisnecktightenandbuncharoundhiscollar.Heturnedbackto
her. “You’re right, ma’am. We both lied, but that doesn’t make it right. It’s something we will have to
discusslater.Agreed?”

Stillfuriousbutseeingnootherwaytomoveforward,Ginanoddedherhead,lettingthetensionease

fromhershouldersassheswallowedhertears.

“Howaboutyoucomeinandhavealookaroundandtellmewhatyouthink?Wecanmakeadecision

aboutwhatwe’regoingtodowhenyou’vehadtheguidedtour.”

“I’vealreadylookedatthehouse.”
“Excuseme?”Roryglancedaround,tookintheclearedpathtothedoorandmethergaze.“Justhow

longhaveyoubeenhere?”Shehadn’tdonemuchtotheoutsideofthehousebutpullingafewweedsfrom
thegardenhadmadeabigdifference.

“Fourdays.”Sheswallowed.“Idecidedtocomeearly.TherewasnopointinstayinginthecityandI

wasn’tsurehowlongitwouldtakeustogethere.”

Hestaredather,hishandsonhiships.“Letmegetthisstraight,you’vebeenstayinghere,”hechucked

hischintowardthehouse,“inthisdumpforthelastfourdays?”

“Yes.”
“But the place isn’t habitable yet.” He swallowed and refused to meet her gaze. “I haven’t had a

chancetocleanupyet.”

“Do you mean to tell me you don’t even live here?” The embarrassed look on his face made her

insidestighten.“IhadhopedyouwereworkingwhenIarrivedbutwhenyoudidn’tcomebackatnight,
therewasnothingIcoulddo.”

“No,Idon’t.Notyetanyway.”Helookedawayfromheraccusinggazeandglancedatthehouse;his

eyes roamed over the front porch she’d tidied, settled on the windows she’d cleaned. She really had
workedhardtogettheyearsoffilthofftheplaceanditshowed.

“Listen,I’msorryIdidn’ttellyoubutIthoughtthiswouldbethebestplacetomeetup.Letyougeta

lookatthehouseand…”

“And what? Decide if it was good enough for me?” Her mood darkened and her lips thinned. The

cheekybeggar.“DecideifIcouldlivehereamongstallthemess?”

“Uh,shallwegoinandseethehouse,seewhatyou’vedone?”Helookedasthoughhewaswaiting

forhertoeruptandlashoutbutGinakepthertemperincheck,barely.Alotrodeonthisfirstimpression
of the man she had travelled miles to marry. No point scaring him off now when she was so close to
sealingherfuture,buttheurgetoletripsimmeredunderthesurfacewithhertemper.

“WhatI’vedoneisscrubmyfingerstothebonesinceIgotheretomakethisplacehabitable,that’s

whatI’vedonebecauseyoutoldmeitwasyourranchandwhereyoulivedwhenyouweren’tonduty.
Andnowyoutellmeyoudon’tactuallylivehere?Doyouevenowntheplace?”

“Yes.OfcourseIdo.”Hepuffeduphischestasifshedoubtedhisword?Hewasadeputyofthelaw,

forheaven’ssake.Surelyhewasbelievable.

“But you don’t actually live here?” The words came out with little bursts of venom as she tried to

keepthetemperincheck.

“Ah, no. I only bought the place a few weeks ago. My brother has been helping me clear out the

garbagebutitstillneedsrenovating.I’vealreadygotthebuilderslinedup.”

Ginaturnedand,withskirtsswishingaroundherlegs,walkedupthestepsandintothehouse,Fisher

on her hip. Rory followed. She heard him take a deep breath as they walked down the passage. Where
oncehewouldhavesmeltmustyfurniture,Ginahadreplaceditwithjarsofflowersfromtheovergrown
garden,theirsmelllingeringthroughthehouse.

Shestoodwithherbackagainstthekitchencounterandwaitedforhimtosaysomething.Whenhejust

staredatherwithanindescribablesadlookinhiseyes,shespoke.“Ithinkweneedtotalknowandget
thissorted,don’tyou?”

Roryblinkedandnoddedhishead.She’ddonesomuchinamerefewdays.“Yeah,guesswedo.So

yougofirst.Whatdoyouwanttoknow?”Heleanedagainstthewall,crossedhisarms,andwatchedher
strugglefortherightwords.

“Youtoldmeoverthephoneyouhadaranchwerewewouldliveandyourphotohadahousebehind

youbutitwasn’tthisplace.Isthisyourideaofajoke,becauseIdon’tthinkit’sveryfunny?”

“Areyousayingyouwouldn’tlivehere?”
Ginachoseherwordscarefully.Thisreallywasnoworsethanwhattheylivedinforthelastcouple

ofyears.Atleasttheywouldn’tbesharingthebathroomwithanotherfewfamilies,andshehadherown
kitchenevenifitwasoutofdateandneededareallygoodclean.“Icouldlivehere.I’vehadworse,far
worseinfact.Justlisteningtowhatyousaidonthephone,Iwasn’texpectingittobequitesorundown
though.”Sheswallowed,hopingshewasn’tsoundingtoomuchlikeaneedyprincess.Spendingtimehere
on her own had made her feel as though it was already hers. “Now I’ve cleaned it up, it doesn’t seem
quitesobad.”

“So, you’d live here, especially if the place had a more homely feel about it?” He pulled a face at

Fisher and the baby giggled, hiding his face against his mother’s neck before peeking out again and
laughing.

RegardlessofhowIreallyfeel,Ihavetogrovelandmakehimfeelbettersohewon’tsendusaway.

ImightnotlikeitbutI’dhatebeingscornedandsentpackingaheckofalotmore.“Yes,Iwould.”It
wasbiggerthantheroomshe’dbeenlivinginforthelasttwoyearsanditwasawayfromthecity.She
couldmakeanicehomeherefortheirlittlefamilyifonlyshecouldconvincehimtheycouldallmakeit
work.Besides,shekindofliketheremotenessandspacetheranchoffered.

“Youdidn’ttellmeyouhadachild.Whynot?”
Heatwasheduphercheeksandsheglancedaway,fiddlingwithFisher’scurls,wrappingonearound

herfingersoshedidn’thavetolookathim.“Ididn’thaveanychoice.It’snotlikeItoldyoualie,Ijust
didn’ttellyouthewholestory.He’sagoodbaby,neveraproblem,Ipromise.AndImeantwhatIsaid
about wanting a family, more children that is. I’d do it again too, anything for my child. If you were a
parent,you’dunderstandthatyou’llalwaysputthemfirstanddoanythingyoucantotakeawaythepain
lifecaninflictonthem.”Herthroatworkedassheswallowed.

ChapterThree

YOU

WERE

a parent. Rory reached over and took the child, holding Fisher against his chest and

wonderedifthisiswhathischildwouldhavelookedlike.Thebabysmellreachedhisnoseandhisthroat
closedupwithanunknownemotion.Ittookamomentforittosubside,timehetooktotakeineverylittle
sparkleinthetoddler’seyes,everyeyelashthatflutteredagainsthischeeks.

“Hey,littleone.You’reacutelittlebutton,aren’tyou?”Fisherreachedoutapudgyhandforhishat

andRorytookitoffandplaceditonhishead.Thebabytiltedhisheadbacksothehatfelltothefloorand
reachedforRory’smouth,digginghischubbyfingersintothesoftfleshyskinofhisbottomlipandchin.

“Gentlebaby,there’sagoodboy.”Ginacroucheddownandpickedupthehat.
“Where’shisfather?”Wideeyeslockedontohisandhesawthemomentthetensionracedbackupher

spine.ShebristledquiteeasilybutRorytoldhimselfthatwastobeexpected,shedidn’tknowhimand
theyhadn’tgottenoffonthebestfoot.

“HediedbeforeFisherwasborn.”Ginaliftedherchin,staredathim.
“Don’tyouhaveanyotherfamilythatcouldhavehelpedyouout?”
Sheshookherhead.“No.”Ginaranhertonguearoundherbottomlipandsomethingmovedinsideof

hisgut.

Thehauntedlookinhereyestuggedathisheart.Eventhoughhemadeuphismindthatshe’dcome

hereunderfalsepretenses,Rorywasn’tmercenaryorcold.Therewasstillthechancetheycouldwork
thisout.Theemotionsinhereyesmirroredwhathe’dfeltforthelastfewyears.Lostandalone,butstill
wellawareofthesurroundingswhilenotquitefittingin.

Luckilyhe’dmanagedtocleanmostofthegarbageoutofthehousebeforeGinaarrivedbutthelast

thinghe’dexpectedwasforhertoarriveearlyandlivehere!Thefactremainedthatshehadlied,ifonly
byomission,andlyingwasabigno-notohim;notthatheconsideredhe’dliedeventhoughshedid.Just
becausehestoodinfrontofahouseforaphotodidn’tmeanitwashisplace.“I’msorryaboutthestateof
the house. I only just bought it and thought I’d have more done to it before you got here. I didn’t
intentionallymeanyoutothinkmybrother’splacewasmine.”

“I, um, didn’t have any reason to stay in San Francisco once you made me the offer of a home and

marriage.”SheblushedbeautifullyandRory’sannoyanceatherliebegantoshuffleaway.

Heglancedaroundthekitchen,sawherbelongingsplacedaroundneatandtidy.Thebathroomdoor

stood open and a woman’s vanity bag sat on the counter. It looked as though she was setting in to stay
whichiswhathe’dexpected.Justnotwithachildandfourdaysearly.

“We brought pretty much everything we owned with us, so it hasn’t been that bad.” She ran a hand

overtheclean-but-fadedkitchencountertop.

HewipedaloadofspitfromFisher’schinwithacleantissuehepulledfromhispocket.
“He’steething.”
“Poor little mite.” Would his and Cindy’s child have been like this? All soft and smelling of baby

powder?Roryhadavoidedotherpeople’sbabiesupuntilnow,knowingthepainwasstilltooraw.The
childrestedagainstRory’sshoulder,histhumbinhismouth.“Idon’tknowhowmuchyou’veseenofthe
placebuttherearestablesandabarntoo.Let’swalkandtalk.Hemaynodoff.Thoselittleeyelidsare
lookingprettydroopy.”

Ginafollowedhimout,pickingherwaythroughthetrodden-downweedshestillhadtomowover.

Fishersnuggledinhisarms,reachingouttopointtothecloudsfloatinginthepalebluesky.

“Doyouwantmetotakehim?Hegetskindofheavyafterawhile.”
It felt strange holding Fisher, but a good kind of strange. One he knew he wanted to explore more.

“Hey,I’mmorethanhappytocarryhim.Feelsliketherightthingtodo,youknow.Unlessyou’dratherI
didn’tuntilyougettoknowmebetterthatis.”Hestoppedandwaitedforhertotakethechild.

FisherprotestedwhenGinareachedoutandtookhim.HetwistedhisbodybacktoRory.Thetoddler

heldhisarmsoutandopenedhismouthtocry.Rorytookthebabybackbeforethenoisemadeitpasthis
lips.“Ithinkyou’llfindI’mtrustworthyandwon’thurthim.”Hehopedhisjobwouldatleastwaylayher
worryfornowuntiltheygottoknoweachotherandhedecidedtheirfate.

“Lookslikehe’stakentoyou,whichisfunnybecausehedoesn’treallyknowanymen.”
And I don’t know any small children like Fisher, more’s the pity. Guess that makes us even. Rory

smiledandcontinuedthetour,wonderingifshe’dputhertouchesonthisspacetoo.“Thebarnneedsabit
ofworkbutit’ssoundenough,asarethestables.MostofthepaddockswillneednewfencingbeforeIcan
buyanycattle.There’splentytokeepyouoccupiedwiththegardensandtheorchardifthat’swhatyou
wanttodo.”Heturnedandpointedtothechickenpen.“Icangetyousomehensintownifyouwantto
gatheryourowneggs.It’salluptoyou,Gina,ifwedecidetogoaheadwiththisarrangement.Youcan
choose.Idon’twanttomakeyoudoanythingyoudon’twanttodo.”

Shestoppedandlookedathim.“Why?Whydidyouadvertiseforabride?It’snotlikeyoucouldn’t

getawifethenormalway,isit?”

“Ihadawife.Wewereinlove,verymuchinloveinfactsoit’snotlikeIhaven’teverbeenhappy.

Shewaskilledjustaswefoundoutshewaspregnant.Iputallofmyfocusintomyjobuntilmybrother
decideditwastimeIreturnedhometowherewewereborn.Icouldn’tgothroughthewholedatingscene
again.Figureditwastoohard.”Helookedawaytothemountainsthatprovidedaspectacularbackdropto
theranch.“Chancefoundhisbridethroughanadvert,soIfigureditwasn’tsuchabadthingtodo.”

Shelaughed,andhesmiledagenuinesmileforthefirsttimeinyears.Thesoundmadehisheartflip

justalittlebitandhefeltthebudofheatstarttothawoutthecoldlumpinhischest.“So,whatdoyou
think?”

“Ilikeit.Ithasloadsofpotential.Areyoustayingherewithustonight?”Shebrushedherhairfrom

herface,turninginthebreezetolookaroundtheranchandRorynoticedthewayhereyesslantedeverso
slightlyabovehighcheekbonesthathadawarmtingeofpinktothemwhensheaskedthequestion.

“No.Iliveatmyelderbrother’splacefornow.”Hegaveherafunnylook.“Youcanfollowmeover

thereshortly.”

INA

SWALLOWED

HARD

andbitherlip.“No.IthinkIshouldstayhere.”He’dmadethepointthatshehad

liedaboutFisherandshehad.Tomoveoutofhernewhomealreadybeforeshecouldmakehimseehow
gooditwouldbewithherherewasn’tonthecards.Therewassomuchstilltodotothehouse,paintand
repairandfixthedamnedleakytaps.

“You’renotstayinghere.”
“ButIhaveto.Imadeadeal,wemadeadealandIknowthatyouweren’texpectingmetobringa

baby along. So,” she blinked and risked a glance at him, “I propose that I stay here and do what I
promised. Make you a home you’ll be proud of. I can do most things, like repairs and painting.” She
hurriedherwordsoutlesthetrytostopherbeforeshemadehercase.“Idon’thaveallthetoolsIneed,

butmaybeyoudo.Ican…”

Roryliftedahandandherheartfaltered.“Stoprightthere.”
Dizzinessthreatenedtomakeherstumble.Howwasshegoingtoexplaintothismanthatshehadno

money,nogas,andnochanceofgettingeitheranytimesoon?Shewastotallyathismercy;notsomething
shewouldeverbeproudof.

“What’swrong?You’vegoneahorriblepalecolor.Doyoufeelokay?”
“Um…it’sjustthat,Iah…”
“Justtellme,Gina.Hell,afterdrivingallthisway,Ithinkwecanagreetotellthetruthfromnowon.

We haven’t started out that great, but we can improve on it and try to make things work. Now tell me
what’sgotyousoupset.”

“Idon’twanttoleavehere,togivein.I’mafraidthatyou’llsendusawayifIdon’tkeepmysideof

thebargain.”Shegazedatherlittleboy.God,ifshegroveledanymoreshe’dweartheskinoffherbelly.
“IknowwhatIdidwaswrong,springingFisheronyou,butbelievemeIwouldn’thavedoneitifIhada
choice.AllI’maskingforisachancetoprovethatIcanbethewifeyouwant.”

“How is sleeping in a decent bed at my brother’s place going to stop you doing that? I don’t

understand.”

Sheshruggedhershoulders.Itdidn’tmakesensebutcallitasenseofforeboding;shefearedonceshe

left,hewouldn’tlethercomeback.“BecauseIdon’thaveanygasormoneytobuymore.Weonlymadeit
thisfarbysheerluck.”Sheriskedalookathimandquicklyglancedaway,embarrassedbeyondbelief.
“That’swhywenevercamelookingforyouwhenyoudidn’tshowupatthehouse.”

Roryseemedtothinkitoverbeforehefinallyspoketoher.“Ihaveacanofgasinthetruck.Always

someonebreakingdownorrunningout.Let’sgoandsortthatoutandthenwecangetthislittleonehome
tomeetCallieandChance.Idon’twantyoustayinghereuntiltheplacehasbeenfinishedandtheelectrics
andplumbingchecked.Youcancomeoverhereallyouwantduringthedays,butatleastletmegiveyoua
decentbedtosleepin.”

Hershoulderssaggedinrelief.Hewasn’tgoingtorenegeonhisdeal,atleastnotyet.Eventhoughhe

wastalkingchickensandgardens,Ginathoughtthatwasonlyiftheyagreedtogoaheadwiththemarriage.
ShequicklycomposedherselfandfollowedhimbacktothetruckwherehehandedFisherovertoherso
hecouldgetthegasfromtheback.TogethertheywalkeddowntohercarandGinawatchedashepoured
itintohergastank.

“Now,whenwegettotheranch,youandIhavetohaveourselvesagoodtalk.Fornow,Ithinkyou

needtogetsomethingtoeatanddrinkandletthislittleonerunwild.Followme,it’snotfar.”

“Thanks,Rory.Ireallydoappreciateeverythingyou’redoingforus.”
Hegazeddownather,asadnessinhiseyesshedidn’twanttothinktooseriouslyabout.Heavenhelp

herifthepersonwhoputthatlooktherewasherself.Itdidn’tmakeherfutureappeartoorosywhenshe
desperatelyneededsomesunshineofherown.“Ineedtogetsomethingsfromthehousebeforewefollow
you.”

ShestrappedaprotestingFisherbackinhiscarseatandclimbedbehindthedriver’swheelasRory

stoodbesidethecar.Whensheturnedthekeyandpumpedthegas,thecarroaredtolifeandshebreathed
asighofrelief.

“Driveupthehillandturnaroundinthegateway.Givemeaminuteandthenfollowmehome.”
Home.Thatwordhadawarmthtoitshehadn’tfeltforalongtime.Livingontheedgeofpovertyhad

awayofmakingeverysinglelittlethingdarkandfilledwithdespair.Ifitwasn’tforthedarlingoldlady
wholivedintheroomnexttothem,Ginawouldneverhavebeenabletoworkasmuchasshehad.When
they left, it was hard to say goodbye knowing that she was leaving the only friend they had for a pipe

dreamandthehopesofabetterlifewhichcouldgoeitherwayatanysecond.

Whenshe’dgatheredtheirpersonalbelongings,Ginafollowedthetruckdowntheroadandalongthe

mainroadfurtherawayfromtown.Theypassedverdantpineforestsbeforecomingtoaturnoffmarkedby
a large grey boulder erupting from the earth. The light was muted and invoked thoughts of danger on
moonlit nights. She gave herself a mental shake. It was safe here, Rory was a gentleman and a deputy
sheriff.Thecitywasfarbehindthemandsowasthedanger.Shehadn’thadasinglemomentoffearatthe
ranch,sowhynow?Seetheforestforwhatitis,Ginaandstoplettingyouroveractiveimaginationgo
wild.Besides,youhavenochoicesoplayniceandmakehimlovehavingyouaround.

After a couple of hundred feet, the trees stopped and grazing land took over. Paddocks with horses

roaming happily flanked either side of the road. “Look, Fisher, horses.” Her baby gurgled happily and
wavedhishandsintheairtowardtheanimals.

She followed the truck over a heavy wooden bridge spanning a small quick-flowing river and

wonderedifitwasthesameoneshehadnoticedmeanderingatthebackofhernewhome.Theypasseda
ranchwithasmallcabinsetbackfromtheroadwherehorsesroamedinthepaddocksandabatteredbarn
leaneddrunkenly,showingthewaythewindblew.

Prettysoontheystartedtoclimbuptowardssnow-cappedmountainswhichwerebreathtakingintheir

glory.Thickpineforestssurroundedthegreatriseofhillsanditwasn’tuntiltheycrestedarisethatshe
sawtheranchthatsathighabovethetown.

Alargeloghousewithabellsetintothemiddleoftheroofcommandedmagnificentviewsoverthe

valleybelow.SherecognizedtheporchfromthephotoRorysenther.Thiswasthehouseshethoughtshe
was going to make her home. What a letdown that had been. Rory pulled up at a hitching rail and
indicatedsheshoulddothesame.Whensheturnedoffthecar,heopenedthebackdoor,reachedintothe
backseat,andundidthebabyharnessthatheldhersonin.

“Letmeshowyoufolksaround.”FisherwriggledinhisarmsandRoryturnedtoGina.“Isitalrightif

Iputhimdown?”

“Sure.Heneedstostretchhislittlelegs.”Ginawatchedashecroucheddownandsetherbaby’sfeet

ontheground.Heheldhisarmsoutincasehestumbled,readytocatchhim.Fishersquealedandtottered
off as fast as his chubby little legs would carry him. He headed away from the house toward a huge
woodenbuildingandGinafollowedwithRorybesideher.

“Thishere’sthebarnasyoucansee.Chancekeepsthehorsesinhereatnightandthere’safewstalls

whereCalliekeepsanycalvesthatneedmotheringforwhateverreason.You’llmeetthembothlater.”

Gina looked around at the beautiful property. Everything was in its place and so very pretty. Cows

withcalvesatfootlazedinthelonggrass,chewingcontentedly.Chickensscratchedinthedirtaroundthe
barnandFishermadeabeelineforahenwithchickenspeepingatherside.Theyscatteredashetoddled
closerandhefelltohisbottomwithawail,lookingforsomeonetohelpsortouthisproblems.

“Youcomefromalargefamilythen?”
“Big enough I guess. There’s Chance and then me, Evan is a doctor and works in Seattle, and then

there’sTysonwholivesdowntheroad.He’sthebabyofthefamily.Ourfather,Jock,livesintown.”

RoryscoopedFisherupandhuggedhim.“Hey,let’sgoandseethehorse.Wouldyoulikethat?”He

placedhimuponhisshouldersandjiggledthebabyupanddownuntilhesquealedwithdelight.

“He’slovingthat.”GinasmiledasherbabybouncedalongonRory’sshoulderstothebarndoor.He

pulleditopenandflickedontheoverheadlights.Inside,Ginacouldseeastallholdingacalf,andmore
chickensscratchingintheshavings-coveredfloor.She’dneverownedpoultryofherownandthethought
of collecting eggs with Fisher was a very warm feeling. This would be bliss compared to what we’ve
comefrom.I’llgrovelallIhavetosothathedoesn’tsendusaway.

A snort from the end stable startled her. Rory walked over talking to her son, telling him about the

horses.“ThisisSultan.Goodboy,Sultan.Sayhello.”

“Isitsafetotakehimsoclose?”GinahurriedovertostandbehindRoryoutofreachofthehorse.
“I’d never take him this close if it wasn’t. Don’t worry, Gina. I’ll take very good care of him, I

promise.”Heleanedforward,bendingslightlyatthewaistsothelittleboycouldtouchtheanimal.

Fishergiggledandheldouthishands,touchingthecoarsehaironSultan’sforelock.
Ginawatchedasmanandchildbondedoverthehugeanimalandprayedshe’ddonetherightthingnot

tellinghimaboutFisherbeforetheygothere.Herlittledeceptioncouldcostthemboththehometheyso
desperatelyneeded.

ChapterFour

THIS

WHAT

parenthood would have been like if Cindy and our child had lived? The squeals of

delightcomingfromthelittlebundleofenergyonhisshoulderslefthimwithawarmththreadingitsway
through his body like none he’d ever felt before. When he first recognized Gina from her photograph
standinginfrontoftheranchwithachildonherhip,he’dbeenguttedandreadytosendheronherway
fordeceivinghim.Itwasarisktooffermarriagetosomeonehe’dnevermet,heknewthat.Thelongerhe
wasinthislittleone’spresence,theharderthatwasgetting.WouldIhavefallenforherifwe’dmetona
datefirstandIknewshehadachild?Chancesarehewouldn’thaveevenkeptthedate.Itwouldhave
beentoohard,ashe’dtriedtoexplaintohisbrotherChance.

“Ican’tputmyselfouttherelikethat.Ijustcan’t.”
“Whynot?It’snotlikeyou’reofferingthemanythingonthefirstdate.Gogetafeelforwhatyou

wantoutoflife.”ChancehadthrownabaleofhaytothecowsoffthebackofthetruckasRorycutthe
twineholdingittogether.Calliewasatthewheelandnotprivytotheconversation.

Rorylookedoutoverthepaddockandsighed,notsurehowtomakehisbrotherunderstand.“Why

didyoudoit,advertiseforawifelikeyoudid?”

Chancethrewhimalookofcomprehension.“Okay,Igetitalmost.ButIwasinthelimelightand

couldn’t face the idea of settling down with one of the empty-headed hangers-on that followed me
aroundthecircuit.”Hepushedoffanotherbaleandstoodup,rubbinghisrecentlyhealedhip.“You,
ontheotherhand,workinanindustrythatinvolvesdown-to-earthpeople.Imean,thinkaboutit.Who
wouldn’tlovealawman?”

“I’m not looking for love.” It hit him as the words fell from his lips. It was companionship he

wanted more than anything. Someone to talk to at the end of the day and share the highlights with.
Romancewasabonusifiteverhappened.Besides,hedidn’tbelievelovecouldhithimtwiceinone
lifetime.

“Wellwhattheheckareyougettingmarriedforthen?Youcanfindsomeonetochatwithatthebar

afterwork.”Chanceshookhishead.“Idon’tgetit.You’reyoungerthanmeandlovekids,sowhynot
gofortherealthing?”

“It worked for you didn’t it? I see the way you two look at each other. If you can find the right

personbyplacinganadandsavingyourselfallthehassles,thensocanI.”

Fisher wriggled to get down and Rory concentrated on lifting him from his shoulders. He could

chastisehimselflaterafterhe’dhadatalktoGinaanddecidedwhattheyweregoingtodo.Heputthe
childonthegroundandwatchedhimwobblearoundonlittlelegs,exploringthebarn.Thechickensran
forcoverwhenheheadedtheirway.

“He’sneverseenanythinglikethisbefore.”TherewasasenseofwonderinGina’svoice.
“Ifeelsorryforkidsnotbroughtupinthecountry.Theymissoutonsomuch,tomywayofthinking.”

Heriskedaglanceather.Shewasmesmerizedbyhersonwalkingaroundthebarnexploringanythingthat
moved.AshadowslunkthroughthedoorandshotovertoFisher.

Before Gina could launch herself to protect her child, Rory grabbed her by the arm restraining her.

“It’sokay,that’sSherbet,Callie’sdog.Shewon’thurthim,Ipromise.”

Gina gripped hold of his arm, her body tense, and watched as the dog sniffed Fisher’s feet, making

himsquealwithlaughter.Hegrabbedhandfulsoffur,leaningdowntotryandputitinhismouth,making
theanxiousmotherhurrytohisside.

“No,honey.Pleasedon’teatthedoggy.”ShedroppeddowntoherkneesandstrokedSherbet.“See,

strokeherlikeMommydoes.NiceSherbet.”

Fisher plonked down on his butt and grinned, holding his arms out for the dog to be put on his lap.

Rory came to the rescue and encouraged Sherbet to lay with her head on the chubby little legs. “He’s
neverhadadogthisclosebefore,andhisfavoritetoyisascruffylittledog.”

“Bestmixever,kidsanddogs.”
“Hey,who’sstealingmydog?”Calliewaltzedintothebarn,herbroadaccentthick.
RorystoodupandheldouthishandforGinatoriseandmeethissister-in-law.“Callie,thisisGina,

andthelittlepint-sizedmunchkinonthefloorisFisher.He’stakenashinetoSherbet.”

Callie hurried over and held out her hand. “Hey, welcome to the ranch. Rory never told us he was

havingcompanyorIwouldhavebakedacake.”Shesnorted,slappingahandonherdenim-cladthigh.

“Youliar.Youhatecookingbutthanksforthesentiment.”Heavoidedthequestionsinhereyesand

benttopickupthebabyinstead.Itwouldseemthatherhusbandhadleftthedecisiontohimtotellanyone
aboutwhathe’ddone.“IsitokayifIputGinaandFisherintheroomnexttomine?”

“Sure.Dowhatyoulike.HowmanytimeshaveItoldyouthisplaceisyoursaswell?”Shewhistled

andheldoutherarms.Sherbetlaunchedherselfupandlickedherchin.CalliesteppedclosertoRoryand
Fisher,lettingtheboypatthedogagain.“Didyouwantustogetacotorsomethingforthislittleguy?”
ShedirectedthequestiontoGina.

“No,thankyou.IhaveacollapsibleoneinthecarItakewithmeeverywhere.He’shappierwithhis

ownthings.”SheglancedatRory.“I’dbettergethimchanged,andabathwouldbeagoodideaifyou
don’tmind.”

“Sure.Letmegiveyouahandtounpackthecar.”Henoddedathissister-in-lawandfollowedGina

outofthebarn.“Catchyouupatthehouselater.”

HehandedFishertohismotherwhentheyreachedthehouseandstartedhaulingbagsfromthebackof

thecarandplacedthemontheporchasshewatched.Whenthecarwasempty,heopenedthedoortothe
house and ushered her inside. “Let me show you the bedroom and bathroom so you can get him
organized.”

Rory walked her through the kitchen and pointed out the lounge on the way to the stairs. When they

reached the top, he walked past his bedroom and opened the door of the empty guest room, holding it
wideforGinatoenter.Sheglancedatthelargequeen-sizebedandwalkedovertotheopendoorofthe
en-suitebathroom.“Thisislovely.”

“I’llbringuptherestofthestuffifyouwanttogethimbathed.There’retowelsandeverythingyou’ll

probablyneed.Ifyouwantanything,youonlyhavetoask.”

“Thanks.” She smiled quickly and turned away. Rory headed back down the stairs and grabbed the

restofthebags,placingthemontheendofthebedbeforecarryingupthePack’nPlay.Heunzippedthe
bagandlookedatit,tryingtofigureouthowitworked.Thereweren’tanydirectionsbuthewaswilling
togiveitago.Afterall,howhardcoulditbe?Hepulledthelegshopingtheywouldslideoutandopen
thewholethingup.Nosuchluck.Notwillingtobreakanything,Rorydecidedtoleaveittotheexpert.

“Icandoit.”GinastoodinthedoorwaywithFisherwrappedupinabigfluffytowel.
“Sorry,notusedtocontraptionslikethis.”Hepushedbackhishatandscratchedhishead.“Anything

elseIcandoforyouthatdoesn’tinvolveputtingthingstogether?”

LOOKED

him and smiled. “I’ll just get him dressed and come downstairs. I need to think about

feedinghimbeforeitgetstoolate.Hedoesn’tdolatenightsverywell.”AndIhavetofacethemusicand
trytosortoutourfuturewithoutmakingmelooktoomercenary.

“Did you want me to cook something? I’m not that sure what little ones eat though. I can give it a

shot.”

“It’sokay.Icandoit.IfIcouldjustmakeeggsfordinner,he’dlovethat.”Ginasatontheedgeofthe

bedandreachedforFisher’sbagofclothes.She’dhavetodoawashtomorrowbecausehewasalmost
outofcleangarmentssoallinall,itwasn’tabadmovecominghereforacoupleofdays.

“Right,then.I’llgodownandlightthefiresohe’snotcold.Seeyouwhenyou’reready.”Heshutthe

doorbehindhimandhershouldersslumped.Sofarsogood.Atleasthehadn’tsentheraway.Herheart
achedforherbabyboy.Shewantedhimtohaveafather,butithadbeenunderhandedtosurpriseRory
like that. He seemed like a very nice man. Would he have welcomed her if he’d known she had child
already?Shecouldn’ttakethatchanceandnowshehadtorunwithherdeceptionandhisreactiontoit.

Fisherwriggledandtriedtoclimbawayfromhismother.“Holdstillhoney,andwe’llgetyoudressed

andfedbeforebedtime.”Oncehewaswrappedupinhispajamasandslippers,Ginalethimdownonthe
floorwhileshetidiedthebathroomandthensetupthecot.Shepulleditclosetothebedandturneddown
theblanketssowhenherchildfellasleepsheonlyhadtoplacehimdownandcoverhimup.

“Let’s go downstairs and see about dinner.” She scooped her baby up and headed down the stairs.

Voicescamefromthekitchenandshepaused,notsureaboutwalkingintosomeoneelse’shouseduringa
conversation.Itcouldbepersonalandshedidn’twanttointerrupt.FisherspottedSherbetwalkingfrom
thekitchentotheloungeandletoutasqueal,makingthedecisionforher.

There was no choice other than to head down and see what was going on in the kitchen. Rory was

standingwithamugofcoffeeinhishandsandCalliewasleaningonthekitchenislandcounterwhenshe
walkedin.

“Heysnugglebug.Youlookgorgeousallruggedupinyourlittleonesie.”Callielaughedatthelook

thatpassedbetweenGinaandRory.“Youdon’tcallthemthathere?ItmightbeanAustralianthingthen,
sorry.I’mtalkingabouthislittlesuit.”

“Oh,right.Wecallitasleeperbecauseitcovershisarmsandlegstoo.”SheputFisherdownonthe

floorandwatchedashetotteredaroundexploringthekitchen.

“Right,whatdoyouwanttogivehimfordinner?I’mnotthatcrashhotinthekitchen,butyoucando

whateveryouwant.”Calliewalkedawayfromthecounterandtookaseatatthetable,leavingthekitchen
toGina.

“Areyousureyoudon’tmind?Ihatethethoughtoftakingover.”
“Doesn’t worry me in the slightest. Go for it. The pantry is pretty well stocked as is the fridge and

freezer.DowhatevermakesyouhappywhileIkeepaneyeonthislittlebundleofjoy.”Shekepthergaze
onFisherashetouchedeverythinghediscovered,castingquickglancesattheadultswatchinghisevery
move.

“Youdon’thaveanychildrenyet?”
“Ah,no.We’llgetthereonedaythoughwhenwefigurethetimeisright.ChanceandI’veonlybeen

married for a short time so there’s no rush.” Callie clapped her hands and Fisher came toddling over
towardher.“Aren’tyoujustthesweetestlittlething?”

“I’llmakehimanomeletifthat’salright?”

“Ofcourse.Wehaveloadsofeggs.Thegirlsaredoingreallywell,givingusmorethanwecaneat.”

Calliepickedupthebabyandcarriedhimonherhiptothepantry.Shecamebackoutwithabasketfilled
witheggs.“Icollectthismanyeveryday.IjustwishIknewwhattocooksoIcouldusethemup.”Sheput
thebasketonthecounter.

“IcouldmakeFrenchtoastforbreakfasttomorrow.”Anythingtogivemebrowniepointsandpaymy

ownway.

“Hellyes.Ilovethatstuff.ShameIalwaysburnit.Allthatbutterandcinnamon,yum.Mymotherused

to give it to us on Sundays because that was the only day we had off on the farm.” A shadow crossed
Callie’sface.

“Okay,donethen.”Shelookedaroundthekitchentoorientherself,checkingcupboardsanddrawers.

Ginathenfoundtheutensilssheneededtomakedinner,andputasmallfrypanonthestovetoheat.From
thebucketonthecountershetookacoupleofeggsandbrokethemintoabowlshe’dfoundunderthesink,
whiskingitwithaforkbeforeaddingasmalldashofwater.

RoryfrownedwhenGinaaddedthewaterandshesmiled.“Iknow,Igetitallthetime.Mostpeople

use milk. I find water makes it lighter and, for a baby, going to bed on a heavy dinner won’t be
comfortable.”

Thebackdooropenedandinstrodeacowboy,hiseyeslightingupwhenhesawCalliewithachild

onherhip.Hewalkedoverandgrinned,glancingbetweentheadultsstandinginthekitchen.“Heycutie,
what’syourname?”

Rorytookoverandmadetheintroductions.“ThisisFisherandoverherewehaveGina,hismother.

They’restayingwithmeforabit.Gina,meetmybrother,Chance.”

“Abit.”Thatsoundsominous,it’snotsoundinglikehewantstokeepushere.“Hello.”Shewiped

her hand on the tea towel and walked toward him, holding out her hand, her insides shaking as he
scrutinizedher.

“Hi, nice to meet you. Looks as though you’re already settled. If there’s anything I can do for you,

pleaseleteitherCallieormeknow.”

“Thanks,that’sverykindofyou.”Ginawentbacktomakingdinnerandwatchedastheadultsfussed

overherson.Apricklingsensationrandownherneckandwhenshelookedup,Rorywaswatchingher.
Shetriedtosmilebutheturnedawaytoanswersomethinghisbrothersaid.

“Doyouhaveahighchairforhim?”CalliestoodbythecounterwithFisher,blowingraspberrieson

hisneckwhilehesquealed.

“No,Idon’t.Ihadtoleavethatbehind.Itwouldn’tfitinthecar.”
“Oh.Sotellme,whereis‘behind’?”Calliesmiledandleanedonthecounter,hergazeonGina.
“SanFrancisco.”
“YoudroveallthiswaytoseeRory.Howniceforhim.”Shetiltedherheadandthoughtforamoment.

“Hey, aren’t you the lady that drove into town last week and stopped to help Mrs. Forester feed the
birds?”

Ginafeltherstomachdrop.“Well…”Thiswouldn’tendwell,shecouldsenseit.
“Sowherehaveyoubeenstayingthen?Intown?”
Ginablewoutabreath.“No.Actually,I’vebeenstayingatRory’splace.”
Chance stood up, a scowl on his face. “What, are you kidding me?” He limped over to his brother.

“Whatthehellareyouplayingatlettingawomanandachildstayinthatdump?”

ChapterFive

“C

ARE

FILL

meinonwhyyou’relookingsopissedoff?”Chancesatinfrontoftheroaringfireinhis

favoriteleatherchairwhilethewomentookcareofthebaby,feedinghimdinnerintheotherroom.

“Ididn’tknowshewasalreadyherenordidIknowshehadakid,Iswear.”Rorywalkedovertothe

window,runningahandacrossthebackofhisneck.Asmuchashelikedwhathe’dseensofarofGina,
he didn’t know if he could get past the initial lies. She was easy on the eyes, more so than he’d first
thought,andhergentlenesswithhersonwarmedhisheart.Whatshe’ddonetotheoldcottageinfourdays
amazedhim.Hehadtogiveherpointsforworkingsohardevenifhedidn’tlikethesubterfuge.“Doyou
honestlythinkI’dletanyonestayattheranchwhenit’sinthestateitis,especiallyawomanwithababy?
Theplaceisfilthy.”

“Idon’tknowwhattothink,Rory.”Helookedintotheflamesoftheroaringfire.
“Wemadeplansforwhenshewasgoingtoarrive.Isaidtodayandsheagreedthenarrivedearly.”
“Sowhydidn’tshecontactyouwhenshegotherethen?”Chanceleanedbackandputhishandsbehind

hishead,stretchingouthissorehip.

“Idon’tunderstanditmyselfbutthinkithassomethingtodowiththebaby.Becauseshedidn’ttellme

abouthim,Ifigureshe’stryingtodoherbesttomakeherselfindispensablesoIwon’tsendherback.”

“Ah, I see. I’m not criticizing you, don’t get me wrong, but I was just wondering if you chose her

because of the child. Guess that answers my question.” He leaned back and watched the flames licking
overthelargepiecesofwood.“Howdidsheliketheranch?”

“Mine?”
Chancenoddedhishead.
“Ithinkshewaskindofshockedwhenshefirstarrived,andwhenshelookedaroundsheadmittedto

livinginsomethingprettysimilar.Youshouldseewhatshe’sdonewiththeplace.Cleanerthanyouwould
believe.Iwastakenabacktoo.Fromallaccountsshe’shaditprettyrough.Ididn’thavethehearttotell
herit’sgettingacompletemakeover,gutteddowntotheframes,notjustyetanyway.”

“Whythehecknot?Doyouthinkthat’sfairtodragheralongthinkingshe’sgoingtoliveinadump?”

Chancesatforward,hiselbowsonhisknees.

Rory shrugged his shoulders. “No, it’s not and it’s against all I hold dear. I’m kind of stunned and

don’tknowwhattothinkrightnow.Youknowme.IhateliesandIcan’tgetoverthefactthatshedidn’t
tell me about the kid.” He ignored the look of disbelief on his brother’s face. “I’m a deputy sheriff for
goodness’sake.Ifthat’snotallabouthonesty,whatisit?”

“Iunderstandthat,buttakeastepbackandthinkbeforeyoudosomethingdamnedstupid.Doyouthink

ifyouknew,youwouldstillhavetoldhertocomeorwouldyouhavekeptlooking?”

“That’swhat’sgoingthroughmymind—Ijustdon’tknow.”Helookedupasasquealoflaughtercame

fromthekitchen.“Ineverthoughtofhavingaready-madechildandasmuchasIthinkhe’scute,he’snot
mine.”

“So what? Get a grip, Rory. It’s only a matter of chromosomes, not the end of the world. If the kid

needs a father and you need a family, give it a shot. Let them stay here and give them a decent chance
beforeyoudoanythingstupid.”

“Iwasn’tgoingtosendheraway.She’sgotnowheretogoandnomoneyatall.Plus,sheranoutofgas

onthewaytotheranchandshehadtowalkupthehill.”Roryshookhishead.“IfeelasthoughIhaveno
choicebuttoseehowthingsworkoutbetweenus.Onlyaheartlessbastardwouldthrowoutamotherand
childlikethat.”

“Isensea‘but’inthere.”
“Yeah,thereis.Idon’tknowifIwanttogoaheadwiththis.Idon’tthinkIcangetoverthefactshe

liedtome.”Roryrubbedtheskinbetweenhiseyesbeforehelookedathisbrother.

“Fairenough.It’syourdecision.Howaboutyougiveherthebenefitofthedoubtandseehowthings

panout?Youmightbesurprised.”Chanceleanedforwardandrestedhiselbowsonhisknees.

“If,andImeanif,Idecidetosendherback,I’llhavetogivehersomemoney.Shecamewithnothing

inherpurseandthecarranoutofgasbeforeshegottotheranchsoshe’sprettydownonherluckright
now.”

“You’rekidding?Shedeservesachanceifshecameallthiswaytomeetyouandtrytomakealifefor

herselfandtheboy.There’snowayyou’resendingherback.Ifyoudon’twanttomarryher,wecansort
somethingoutsomehow.”Chanceshookhisheadandlookedtowardthekitchen,hismouthtight.

“Iwasn’tgoingtodothattoherifIcouldhelpit.Notyetanyway.”HesawthelookonChance’sface

and knew his brother would kick his ass if he knew what was going through his mind. Chance was all
aboutrightandwrongand,wherewomenwereconcerned,hewasevenmorestubborn.“Ithoughtabout
puttingofftheweddingforafewweeksuntilwegottoknoweachotherbetteratleast.”Reallymyfirst
instinctwastosendherhomeassoonasIsawthechild.

“Doyouthinkthat’sfair?Isn’tsheexpectingyoutomarryheronacertaindate?”
“Probably,Ididtellherweneedtotalkbecausewe’vebothliedtoeachother.”Hesatinoneofthe

oversizedarmchairsandleanedback,wearyofthedayalready.

“Howdidyoulie?”
“IhadCallietakeaphotoofmestandinginfrontofyourhouse.”
“Idiot.”Chancekickedout,strikingRoryonthefoot.“Youletherthinkshewasmovingtoliveinthis

place?”

“Yeah, well, I thought it was a good way to figure out if she was genuine or just after me for your

money.”

Thefirecrackledandalogdroppedsendingsparksupthechimney.“Seemstomelikeshepassedthen

sinceshedidn’ttrytodoarunnerorgutyouonsite.Thatalonesaysalottome.”

“S

HOW

DID

youtwomeet?”

GinalookedupintotheinquisitiveeyesofCallie.
“Um,I’mnotreallysure…”
“Iwasamail-orderbride.”Calliepoppedapeanutinhermouthandcrunchedcontentedly.
“What?”GinaalmostdroppedthespoonshewasusingtofeedFisherhisdinner.Was this a family

thing?

“Yeah,youheardright.ChanceputanadvertisementinamagazineandIjusthappenedtoreaditall

thewaydowninAustralia.Bitofariskbuthey,nopainnogain.Itworkedoutforus.So,howdidyou
andRorymeet?”

“Weonlymettoday.”
Callieclappedherhandoverhermouth,stiflingapealoflaughter.“Ohmygoodness.That’shilarious.

JustyouwaituntilItellChance.”

“Rory’sprobablytellinghimrightnow.”Shesighedandscoopedanotherspoonofeggsintothelittle

boy’smouth.Hechewedwithhisfingersinhismouth,gettingmoredownhisbibthanwhatwentdownhis
throat.Ginawasatalossastowhatelseshecoulddotoencouragethelawmantokeepher.

“Thebrothersareprettytightsoitwouldn’tsurpriseme.Whyareyoulookingsodownaboutitthen?”
“Hedidn’tknowaboutmyson.”Ginabitherlip,hopingthetremblewasn’tnoticeable.Thestressof

thelongdrive,daysaloneattheranch,andherfutureprospectswasstartingtogettoher.Allshewanted
wastogouptobedandhideunderthecoversandpretendshewassomewhereelse.

“Hey.”Calliereachedoutandpattedherarm.“Don’tgetupset,Gina.It’llbeokay,you’llsee.”
The tears overflowed before she could help herself. “What will we do if he sends us away?” Fear

reached up again and gripped her throat. For a moment there, she’d been letting herself imagine a life
where there was a pantry full of food like the one in this kitchen, the power was never cut off for not
paying the bill, and the roof didn’t leak, ruining the only decent blankets she had to keep them warm.
HavingamanlikeRorywantherforhiswifewassomethingshecouldonlydreamof,andnowthatmight
allbepieintheskybecauseofherdeception.Iamsuchanidiotforthinkingthiswouldwork.

“Notgoingtohappenonmywatch.Trustmeonthis.Ifitdoesn’tworkoutbetweenthetwoofyou,I’ll

helpyougetsettledintownanyway.Usgirlshavetosticktogether,youknow.”

“It’snotyourproblem.Thanksanyway.”Shewipedherfingerunderhereyes,ashamedshe’dresorted

totears.Shemustbemoretiredandstressedthanshethought.

“That’snotthebloodypoint.Hegotyouoverhereandhereyouwillstayregardlessofwhathesays.

NowI’vemetthiscutelittlebutton,he’snotgettingtakenawayfromus.”CalliekissedthetopofFisher’s
head,smiledathismother,andlookedupwhenfootstepssoundedcomingfromthelounge.

Rorywalkedinandlookedbetweenthem.“Needanyhelpgettinghimtobed?”
Ginashookherhead.“No,thanks.I’vegotitcovered.He’snearlyfinisheddinner.”
“Okay.Well,ifthere’sanythingyouneed,makesuretoletoneofusknow.”
“You could start dinner.” Callie pulled a face at Gina. “I loathe cooking. Would rather ear-tag a

paddockofbulls.”Sheshivereddramaticallyandrolledhereyes.

“Well,inthatcase,letmegetthislittleonetosleepandI’llcookforyou.It’stheleastIcandosince

you’relettingmestayhere.”Ifonlyforadayorso,I’lldowhateverIcantomakeyouallwantmeto
stay.

“Don’tyoudaretakehim.Ifhe’shadenough,I’llholdhimuntilhegoestosleepandthenwecansort

outhowtogethimtobed.Deal?”

“Deal.Butheneedshissippycup.Letmegetit.”ShewipedthedribblefromFisher’schinandstood

up.“Thanks,Callie.”

“Ha, no problem. I’m taking him into the lounge so I can hang out with my spunky cowboy.” She

jiggledthebabyinherarmswhileGinamadeupadrink.Whenshewalkedintothelounge,Calliewas
leaningagainstChancewithFisheronherkneewatchingthefire.ShegaveCalliethesippywithakissfor
herson’scheek.“Later,youtwo.”Fishersnuggledintohershoulder,hiseyelidsalreadyheavywithsleep,
andmilkylipsworkedthespout.

“You don’t have to do dinner, Gina. I can cook if you’d rather settle the baby first.” Rory looked

uncomfortableandavoidedmeetinghergazewhenshewalkedbackintothekitchen.Thankgoodnesshe
was feeling as out of sorts as she was. They might have a chance to clear the air so at least she could
sleeptonightwithoutworryingsomuchaboutbeingkickedout.

“No,it’sfine.IlovetocookwhenIgetthechance.It’swhatIlovetodoandIdon’twanttobeseento

beskivingoff.Sonotmything.”Shestoodupandputthebowlinthesink,runningthewateroveritto
rinseoffthelastoftheegg.Herchancetoshineandshewasn’tgoingtoletafewanxiousmomentsderail

that.“Whatdoyouwanttoeat?”

“Ithinkthere’resteaksinthefridge.”
“Okay.” She walked over and opened the door, looking for the meat. Gina reached for it and then

changed her mind. She shut the fridge door, turned back to Rory, and crossed her arms, gathering her
nerve.“Maybeyouwanttogetthistalkoveranddonewithnowwhilethere’sjustthetwoofusinthe
room.”Withherheadheldhigh,shewalkedovertotheislandcounterandstoodbehindit,herhandson
thesurfaceforstabilityforwhatshedreadedwastocome.

Rorylookedather,eyesshadowed,andherheartplummeted.Nowshe’dstartedtheconversation,she

fearedhewasgoingtotellhershehadtoleave.

“I’mnotsurewheretogofromhere,totellyouthetruth.”
“Howaboutyoutellmewhat’scausingyouthemostdistressandwecandealwiththatfirstthen?I

alwaysbelieveindealingwithoneproblematatime.”

“Icanstandjustaboutanythingapartfromonething:Ihatelies.”Hesighedandhermouthwentdry.

“Beingasheriff’sdeputyprobablyhelpsreinforcethatandwhenIsawyouwithFisher,Iwonderedwhat
elseyou’dfailedtotellmeabout.Itwasratheraletdownfrommypointofview.”Heglancedatherand
ifhecouldtellshewasterrified,hedidn’tshowit.“Idon’tknowwheretogotofromhere.”

She blinked, and sucked in a breath. It was understandable how he was feeling but in her mind she

was hurt too. All of the way here, she was looking forward to having a home that didn’t have peeling
wallpaperandwaterstainsontheroof,orverminsharingherlivingspace.Adoorthatclosedwouldbea
bonus,andratsnoteatingoutofhergarbagecanatnightwouldbelovelytoo.Itwasstupidtothinkthe
houseinthepicturewouldbehernewhome.Asmallpartofhermindknewthat.Stillithurttothinkhe
haddeceivedherandhewastheonecryingoutinprotest.Whatkindofpersonwithseeminglyeverything
advertisedforawifeanyway?

Shethoughtforamoment,notwantingtosaythewrongthingandriskannoyinghimbutGinawasn’t

onetolaydownandletotherswalkalloverhereither.“IknowyouconsideritlyingandIdon’tblame
you.ButIhadnochoice.EverythingItoldyouaboutmyselfwastrue.Thephotomayhavebeenacouple
ofyearsoldbutitwasstillmeandIdoubtI’vechangedthatmuch.Idowantthethingswespokeabout;
thatwon’tchangenomatterwhereIendupliving.Iwanttomakealifeformeandmychildandifthat’s
with you, wonderful. I’ll be a good wife, that I promise you. I’ll have your children and expect you to
treatFisherlikeoneofyourownbecauseI’lltreatthemallthesame.”

Hecoughedandglancedatherthenlookedawayquickly.
She ploughed on, determined to get her point across before nerves overtook her voice and made

talkingimpossible.“I’llmakesureyouneverhavetoworryaboutthehomeorthechildren.Thatwillbe
myjobuntiltheyareoldenoughtogointocareorschool.ThenI’llgetajobifthat’swhatyouwantmeto
doorIcanworknowwhenyou’rehome,whateverworksbestforus.”Sheswallowedandkeptgoing.
“AllIexpectfromyouistobethereforme,tokeepussafe,andhopefully,oneday,loveus.Noneofmy
ideaschangedwhenIsawthestateofyourcottage.I’llmakeitthehomewebothwant,becauseIknow
it’spossiblewithalittlebitofeffortandalickofpaint.Idon’tneedarenovatedmansion,Rory.I’llbe
happywithwhatyoualreadyhave.It’sallyourcallbecauseI’mnotinapositiontodoanythingotherthan
whatyouchoosetotellmeyouwant.Ourfutureisinyourhands.”Shestoodwatchinghim,waitingfor
himtodestroyherdreams.

“Look,IwantyouandFishertostay,atleastfornow.Iwanttogettoknowyoubeforewecommittoa

marriage.It’stheonlywayIcanlivewiththedeceptionandnothurtyouintheprocess.I’msorry,that’s
howIfeelrightnow.”

Inwardlyshebreathedasighofrelief.Itwasn’tperfectbutaprettydecentstart.Oneshecouldrun

withfornow.Stillannoyedthatshehadtoshoulderalltheblame,shebithertongue,knowingthattodo
otherwisewouldenduplandingherintrouble.

“Whenmywifedied,Ididn’tintendtogetmarriedagain.Icouldn’tbearthethoughtoflosinganyone

likeIlosther.Beingalonewasmucheasierthangoingthroughthatagain.But,seeingmybrotherhappy
withCalliemademerethinkmyfeelings.Ijustdidn’texpecttogetmorethanIbargainedfor.”

SoIhavetohelpyougetoveryourdeadwifebeforeyoucanfallinlovewithme.Isthatevenfair?

I’d almost say that makes us even then, but I can hardly tell you that. I have to bite my tongue and
workthisout.Ginasmiled.“IunderstandandI’msorrytohavedonethattoyou.Ireallydidn’thaveany
choiceifIwantedtokeepmybabywithme.”Mayaswelltellhimthewholetruth.

“Itwasthatbadforyou?”Thesadnessonhisfacemadehergutacheforhisloss.
“Yes,itwasthatbad.IwasatmywitsendastohowIwasgoingtofeedhimandpaytherent.Giving

himupseemedliketheonlylogical,ifnotpainful,optionlefttomebecauseIknewIhadtodowhatwas
bestforFisher,regardlessofhowitwouldkillme.ThenIsawyourad.ItwasagodsendthatIcouldn’t
turndown.”

ChapterSix

“I

’

SORRY

OME

here.”HisheartmissedabeatandRorykickedhimselffortryingtobethetoughguy

heknewhewasn’t.Shedeservedbetterthanhewasgivingher.Therewasnowayhecouldsendherback
towhereshe’dcomefromiftheconditionswereasbadasshesaid.Heheldouthisarmsandwaitedfor
Ginatomakethesteptowardhim.Whenshelaunchedherselfaroundthecounter,hewasn’treadyforthe
tearsthatflowedasheheldher.Tobeinthatkindofpositionwhereyoualmosthadtogiveupyourchild
wastoomuchtodealwith.Hewoulddohisbesttomakesurethisworked;firsthehadtogetoverthe
nigglinginhismindabouttrustorhewouldbeforeverlookingoverhisshoulderwonderingifhe’ddone
therightthing.

ThesmellofstrawberriesrosefromherhairandRoryheldherclose,enjoyingthefeelofawomanin

his arms again. She stifled her sobs, trying to compose herself and he stood with his arms around her,
feelingthefrailnessofherunderhishands.Sheneededsomemoremeatonherbonesinhisopinion,and
hepromisedhimselfshewouldwantfornothingwhiletheytriedtoworkouttheirfuture.Iftheyhadone.

Ginapulledawayandwipedherfingersoverhischest.“I’vemadeyourshirtallwet.”Shesniffed

anddabbedhereyeswiththebackofherhand,ashakylaughescapingherlips.

“I’mthedeputy,IthinkIcantakeit.”Herestedhishandsonhershouldersandlookedintoherwarm

hazeleyes.“Idon’twantyoutothinkthingsaregoingtoturnoutbadbetweenus.Nomattertheoutcome,
I’llmakesureyouandFisherarelookedafter,okay?”Thatlittleboyhadalreadygottenunderhisskin.

Sheglancedupathimwithsoulfuleyes.Thespecksofgoldweredullandhewishedhecouldbring

backtheshinetoherlife.Hejusthadtogetoverhisowninsecuritiesandlearntolivelifetothefullest.
“Okay.”

Roryhuggedhertohischestagain,decidingthefeelofawarmbodyagainsthiswassomethinghe’d

missedmorethanhewouldliketoadmit.There’dbeennobodysinceCindydied.Hehadn’teventhought
ofdatinguntilhecaughtupwithChanceandsawhowhappyhewaswithCallie.

“I’dbettergoandseeifFisherisasleepandthengetonwithdinner.”Hervoicewasslightlymuffled

byhischestbutheunderstoodeveryword.Reluctantly,heloosenedhisarmsaroundherandshestepped
back.

“Thanks. I needed that hug.” She blushed, the color tinting her cheeks delicately and Rory was

transportedtoanothertimeandplace.Hisbodyreactedwithaneedthatsurprisedhim.“OnethingImust
insistonthough,Rory.Ineedtobeabletopullmyweighthereuntilyoudecidewhatyouwanttodo.If
you point me in the right direction to a tool shed, I can go and do some more work on the cottage
tomorrow.It’llkeepmebusyandmakemefeelbetteraboutwhatI’vedonetoyou.”

Beforehecouldsayanything,GinahurriedintotheloungetocheckonhersonandRorystoodthere

wonderingwhatthehellhadhappened.HewasstillstandinginthemiddleofthekitchenwhenChance
walkedin.

“GonnasharewhyyouhavesuchagoofylookonyourfaceandGinawasredeyedfromcrying?”
“What?”
“Ohman,youhaveitbadandyoudon’tevenknowit.”Chancewalkedpasthimandthumpedhimon

theshoulder.“SoIguessthismeansyou’renotputtingheronthefirstbusoutoftownthen.”

“I wouldn’t do that to her. Don’t know why you thought I would.” He walked over and got a glass

fromthecupboard,pouringhimselfalargedrinkofwater.Rorydowneditallwhiletryingtofigureout
whyhereactedtohersoreadily.Hehadn’thadsexinoverthreeyears,unlessyoucountedtakinghimself
in hand in the shower and feeling guilty about it afterwards. Rory couldn’t get over the feeling he was
being disloyal to Cindy when it came to sex even though he knew it was wrong of him. So it stood to
reasonagoodlookingwomaninhisarmswasboundtohaveanimpactonhislibido.Forjustafleeting
moment,hethoughtitwasmorethanthat.Hepusheditdown,notreadytotakethethoughtanyfurtherwith
theimageofhisdeadwifestillfirmlyinhismind.

“She’stakenthebabyuptoputhimtobed.Cutelittlethingheis,too.Benicetohavehimaroundthe

ranch.”

“Youcouldalwayshaveyourown,youknow.”Nowthathewassettleddownandnotfollowingthe

rodeo circuit, there was no reason why Chance couldn’t have a mob of kids running wild around the
ranch.

“Ihavethefeelingthisisgoingtomakemynewbrideveryclucky.Icouldseethelookinhereyes

whenshecarriedhimintoputhimtosleep.Whatisitwithwomanandbabies?It’slikeachainreaction
justwaitingtohappen.”Heslidachairoutandeasedhimselfdownontoit.

“Hipstillsore?”
“Yesandno.Bitstiff,andthat’stobeexpected.Can’tseeitevergettingbacktohowitwas.Thecold

makesitachesomethingfierce.”Chancerubbedhishandoverthejoint.

“Maybeyou’reoverdoingtherancherthing.LetCalliedomoreorgetanotherhandtohelpout.”
“She already does more than her fair share. I discussed bringing in more help. She reckons we can

dealwithitourselves.So,howaboutdinner?Wanttogivemeahandgettingitstarted?”

“Gina said she wanted to do it. Cooking is her thing apparently and she can’t wait to play in this

kitchensomemore.Shewasjustgettingthesteaksoutofthefridgewhenwehadtohavethediscussion
aboutwhatwe’regoingtodo.”Heavoidedhisbrother’sgaze,awaveofembarrassmentwashingover
him.

“What happened with Cindy was a fluke, Rory. Don’t go using the lies as an excuse not to commit

becauseyou’rescaredofsomethinggoingwrongagain.”

Chance was never one to hold back on his punches, but Rory knew that. “I wasn’t using that as an

excuse.”

“Ithinkyouare.”
“Dropit,brother.ThisismylifeandI’llmakemyowndecisions.Youweren’ttherewhenwegrew

upsodon’tgogettingallfatherlyonmenow.ImanagedjustfinethenandIwillnowtoo.”

ChancestoodupandadvancedonRory.Hisbackramrodstraight,hismouthset,andtherewasacold

chillinhiseyesRoryhadneverseenbefore.Hestoodnosetonosewithhisbrother.“Don’teverthrow
thatinmyface,understand?IdidthebestIcouldforallofusandyoubloodywellknowit.IfI’dstayed,
theoldmanwouldbedeadbynow,morethanlikelybymyhands,andI’dbelockedup.Youkidswould
havestarvedifnotformebecausehedrankeverypennyhemanagedtomake.”

They butted chests, quick to fire at each other, a trait they’d shared as youngsters. “Bullshit. He

supportedus,feduswhileyouwerelivingitupwiththegoodlife.Justbecausehespentmostofhistime
inthebottledidn’tmeanwewenthungry.Youweren’tthere,sohowcouldyouknow?”Theangerwas
quick to build in Rory. Years of tampering down the disappointment of having to be the eldest in the
house, and therefore the most responsible one, took its toll and he lashed out, pushing his hand into
Chance,knockinghimoffbalance.

Chance fell against the kitchen island, a groan of pain rushing past his lips. “You have no idea.”

FootstepspoundeddownthestairsandsecondslaterCallieandGinahurriedintothekitchen.

“Whatthehellisgoingonhere?”Calliesteppedbetweenthetwoofthem,pushingRoryback.
“Bigbrotherhereisgivingmesomeofhiswisdom.Pityhedidn’thangaroundlongenoughtodoit

whenwereallyneededhim.Insteadheshotoffassoonashecouldandbecamea‘superrodeostar.’”He
pulleda face, andmade air quotes.“What a great lifeyou had, Chance.People throwing themselves at
you,tellingyouhowwonderfulyouare.Betthatwasnicecomparedtowhatwehadtodealwith.And
nowyou’retryingtotellmehowtorunmylife.ClassicChance,youhaven’tchanged.”

“Youreallyareafuckingidiot,youknowthat?Iloveyouandall,Rorybutopenyoureyes.”Callie

turnedtoherhusband,reachingouttohim.“Areyouokay?”

“Letitbe.Justleaveit,okay?”Chancegrabbedherhand,pullingherclose.
Ginastoodatthedoor,aterrifiedstrangercaughtinthemiddleofahorriblefamilyargument.
“No, I won’t. Its time he knew the truth too.” Callie kissed him, then turned from her husband and

looked at Rory. “Who do you think paid for your living expenses when you were growing up? Your
schoolingandclothing?Itwasn’tyourfatherbecauseweallknowhowhewasmanaging.ItwasChance.
Hetookeveryfall,everykicktothekidneys,andeveryrollofapplausewasforhisbrothers.Evenwhen
he’dhadmorethanheshouldhavetotakeandwantedtoretire,hekeptatitsoyoucouldhavewhathe
thoughtyoualldeserved.”Shetookabreath,firefillinghereyes.“Theonlywayhemanagedtogetoutof
itwasbybeingalmostkilled.”

Rory’s stomach dropped. A taste of bile rose in his throat. He glanced over her head at his elder

brother.“No,you’rewrong.WesurvivedonMom’slifeinsurance.Itwasn’tmuch.Itwasenoughforusto
getbyon.”

“Therewasn’tanylifeinsurance.Neverwas.”Chancesighed.“Look,Ineverwantedyouguystofeel

responsiblesoIletyouthinktheoldmanwasdoingokay.Itwasn’tyourfaultthenanditisn’tnow.Idid
whatIthoughtwasrightatthetimeandifthatmeantIwasn’tthereforyou,wellI’msorry.”

PainfilledRory’sgut.Alltheyearsofwishinghisbrotherwasthereforhimwhentheyweregrowing

upweresuddenlywasted.He’ddoneallhecouldforhisbrothersandsufferedintheprocess.“Youdid
thatforus?”

“Whywouldn’tI?Youguysmeaneverythingtome.”CallieledChancebacktohischairandpushed

himintoit.Shestoodbehindhimandwrappedherarmsaroundhisshoulders,restingherchinagainsthis
neck.“Sodoesthisoneand,ifyouhaven’tnoticed,youcan’tstophersayingwhatshewants.”

“Justtellingitlikeitis.”Shekissedhischeek.
“Weneverknew.”Rorylookedathisbrother,admirationreplacingtheangerfromamomentago.
“Ididn’tdoittogetbrowniepoints.IdiditsoyouguyscouldhaveadecentshotatlifeandI’ddoit

again.Endofstory.”ChancepulledCalliearoundanddownontohislap.Shelaughedandsnuggledinto
him.

Ineedthisagain.Thelove,thecompanionshipthathehas.HelookedoveratGinahoveringinthe

doorwayandwonderedifthiswashissecondchanceand,ifso,didhereallywanttogetthatinvolved
wherehisheartwasontheline?

INA

WATCHED

THE

emotionsrollingoverRory’sface,herheartpoundingatthesuddenburstofangerthat

hadstemmedfromthetwomen.Wasthiswhatshewantedforherchild?LifeinSanFranciscohadbeen
fraught with violence in the poorer district where they’d lived. She’d hoped that she wouldn’t have to
faceithereinMariettawhereitwasalighterpaceoflife.Maybeshe’dbeenwrongaboutRory.

Ginakepttothestairsoutofthewayuntilthingscalmeddown.Oncetheysortedouttheirdifferences,

herheartslowedtoasteadypace.

HowspecialwoulditbetohaveabrotherlikeChancewhoputhisownwantsandneedsasidefor

someoneelse.Shesuckedinasteadyingbreath,andplasteredasmileonherfacebeforewalkingintothe
room. “Right, let me get on to dinner now the munchkin is fast asleep. I swear that little boy has more
energythanmesomedays.”

Callielaughed.“Ifheevergetstoomuch,sendhimmyway.Heisonegorgeouslittlebubba.”
Chanceheldhertight.“Wecouldalwayshaveourown,youknow.”
“I’mgivingitseriousthoughtaftermeetingFisher,letmetellyou.CanIdoanythingtohelp,Gina?”
“No,pleaseletmedothis.It’stheleastIcando.Ilovetocookandthisisanawfullynicekitchento

doitin.I’veneverhadanythingquitelikethisbefore.”

“Yeah,well,it’swastedonme.”CallielaughedwhenGinagaveashudder.“Howaboutweopena

bottleofwine?IfI’mnotmistaken,wehavesomethingtocelebrate.Brothersbacktogetheratlast.”

Ginabreathedasighofrelief.ShethoughtforamomentthatCalliewasgoingtosaysomethingabout

herandRoryandthereasonshewashere.Thatwouldbeadiscussionforwhenthemenweren’tpresent.
Shedidn’twanttoputanymoreofadamperontheeveningthantheheatedargumentalreadyhad.

Callie climbed off Chance’s lap and went into the pantry. She came out a few minutes later with a

bottleofredwine.Shehelditupforinspection.“Thisdo?”

Chance looked at the label and nodded his approval, then stood up to gather glasses. Rory finally

movedfromthespotbesidethekitchencounterandsteppedovertohisbrother,haltinghimonhisway
backtothecounter.“I’msorry.Ican’tbelieveyoudidallthatforusandtheoldmanneversaidaword.”

Chanceputdowntheglassesandhuggedhim,slappingRoryontheback.“Iknowifthewheelswere

turned,you’ddothesameforus.”

“Youthink?I’mnotaskeenonpainasyouare.”
“Sowhyareyouasheriff’sdeputy?Surelyyoucopabitofagroeverynowandthen.”Chancenudged

himwithhisshoulderandtookthebottlefromCallie,unscrewingthetop.

“Yeah,butIhaveaguntohidebehindifthingsgettoorough.”
“Youdon’tlooklikethetypetohide,tome.”Ginaputaheavyskilletonthestovetopandlitthegas

before she turned back to the conversation. Her intended husband was built very nicely indeed. Broad
shoulders,tallwithaseductiveswaggerthatshehadn’tpickeduponbeforeandasmilethatwouldmelt
manyaheart.“Ibetcriminalsrunandscatterwhentheyseeyoucoming.”

“Don’tbefooledbyhislargeimposingnature,Gina,he’sasoftieatheart.Hehasaprettygoodarrest

ratethough,letmetellyou.Thingshereintownmightbeabitcalmerthanwhathe’susedto,whichwill
probably suit him in his old age.” He placed a glass of wine beside the cutting board where she was
working.

“Howdoyouknow?”Roryreachedoutandacceptedaglassofhisown.
Chanceheldadrinkuptohiswifeandthenpickeduphisown.“BecauseIkeptaneyeonyou,that’s

why.Iknewwhatyouwereallupto,allthetime.Everybitoftroubleyougotinto,everycommendation
forservice,Iheardaboutit.”

Gina watched the play between the two men and smiled, letting the family bonding roll over her,

desperatetobeincludedinthecircle.IfthingsworkedoutforherandFisherhereattheranchshewould
beaveryluckygirl.TheshowoflovebetweenthetwosiblingswarmedherheartandCallieappearedto
fitintothemixjustfinethrowinghertypeofsassaround.Thiswaswhatshewantedforherbabyboy.A
family that was prepared to put others first and take care of them no matter what, just like Chance had
done. She sent up a silent prayer that it would all work out, that she could do enough to make Rory so
happythathewouldn’tlethergo.

“Tomybrother,Chance.Foreverythingyoudidforusandthewayyoustillmanagetostickyournose

in,whetherit’swantedornot.”Roryliftedhisglass.

“ToChance.”CallieandGinasalutedthemanofthemomentandhegrinnedalittlesheepishlybefore

raisinghisglass.

“ToRoryandGina.Secondchancesforeachofyou.Allthebestofluck.”
Gina blushed and risked a glance at Rory. His gaze was upon her and a small smile creased the

cornersofhislips.Shebreathedasighofreliefandsippedherwine,savoringthedeephintofplumon
thebackofhertongue.WhensheputherglassonthecounterGinalookedatthemeat,tryingtodecide
whatelsetopreparefordinner.“So,saladorvegetableswiththissteak?”

“I’ll eat anything I don’t have to cook.” Callie shrugged her shoulders, batting her eyelashes at her

husband.“Ican’thelpitifIprefertoherdcattlethanbakecakes.”

“You’re the cook, do what you like.” Chance grinned at Gina. “I’ll eat anything you put in front of

me.”

“Same here.” Rory put his glass down. “Can I help with anything; peel potatoes or something for

you?”

Ginawaslostforwords.She’dneverhadanyoneoffertohelpherbeforeandshedidn’tquiteknow

howtorespond.

Calliebuttedin.“I’mgoingtogoandcheckthatthebabyisstillsleeping.Chance,youcancomewith

me.”Shegrabbedherhusband’shandandthewinebottle.“Calluswhenyouwantthetableset.”They
laughedandhurriedfromthekitchen.

“Um, that’s kind of awkward.” Gina could tell her cheeks were going red and kept her gaze on the

wine glass. “They didn’t need to use Fisher as an excuse, once he’s asleep, he doesn’t wake up til
morning.”

“Theydoitallthetime.Guessit’swhathappenswhenyou’renewlymarriedandheadoverheelsin

love. I’ve pretty much gotten used to it.” Gina noticed a wistful tone to his words. “I think they like to
makeoutandmostofthetimeit’swhereIcan’tseethem.Ihavetoatleastthankthemforthat.Don’tknow
ifIcouldlivewiththescarsit’dleaveseeingmybrotherinacompromisingposition.”

“That’sreallysweetthough,thewaytheyactaroundeachother.”
Ginawalkedbackintothepantryandgrabbedthebucketofpotatoes,thenputitonthecounter.She

picked out four around the same size, dropped them into the sink, and looked hopefully at Rory. “You
couldscrubtheseformeifyoulike.”

“Sure.” Rory put his wine down and reached for a brush and proceeded to scrub off the dirt. Gina

choseafewvegetablesfromthechillertrayinthefridgeandchoppedthemforagreenstir-fry.Sheturned
the oven on and then looked for tin foil to wrap the potatoes in. When Rory passed them over, she
wrappedthemtightinthefoilandpoppedthemintheoventocook.

Afteraquicksipofwine,Ginacheckedtheskilletandturneduptheheat,wantingitsmokingbefore

sheputthethicksteaksonit.Sheknewthatfirstimpressionsmatteredandtheneedtowowthisfamily
wasforemostinhermind.

“Youlooklikeyou’reinyourelementhere.”
Ginasmiled,realizinghowrelaxedshe’dbecometalkingtoRory.“IfIcouldbeanythingIwantedto,

I’dbeachef.”Shelookedupathim.“Ineverhadthechancetogotoculinaryschooloranything,soI
usedtomakeuprecipesinmyhead,notthatIgottocookthemasmuchasI’dliketohavedone,givenour
circumstances.WewereonasetmenuatthedinerwhereIworkedandIdidn’tgetthechancetotryout
myrecipesbutthatdidn’tstopmefromdreamingthemupinmyhead.”

“I’m sorry I can’t give you a definite answer straight away, Gina. Please don’t worry about your

future.I’msurewe’llworkitoutbetweenus.”

“Ihopeso.Ilikeithere.Thesnowissoprettyonthemountainsandtheairismuchcleanerthaninthe

city.It’dbeaniceplacetobringupchildren.”Andwithlucktherewillbemorebrothersandsistersfor
Fishertoplaywith.Thiswasagambleshecouldn’taffordtolose.Desperationmadeherquestionevery
nuance,everyworduttered,wonderingifitwastheonethatwouldendherchanceofabrighterfuture.
Butmorethananything,Ginawasafighter,ago-getterandshewouldn’tgiveupherbigchancewithouta
fight.Shehadthefeelingthelonelydeputywouldbeworthalltheangstshewasgoingthroughrightnow.

“Doyouthinkyoucouldbehappywithme?”Hewatchedherclosely,hisfingerswrappedaroundthe

stemofhisglass.

“You seem like a genuine type of guy and I can understand why you’re doing things this way rather

thandatingandall.YouknowI’mdoingthisforFisherandIdon’twanttolosesightofthat.ButIlike
whatI’veseenofyouandyourfamily.Iguessifweworkonit,wecanmakeithappen.”

“I’mgladyoudecidedtocomehere,Ireallyam.Ithinkyou’vedonememoregoodinonedaythan

I’vedoneformyselfinthelastfewyears.”

Shebreathedaninwardsighofrelief.“I’mpleasedtohearit.NowIthinkIcanputthissteakon.Want

tosetthetableforme?I’dhatetointerferewiththenewlyweds’quiettime.”

“Sure.”HeputoutplacematswhileGinamovedtheslabsofsteakontothegrill.Thesharpsizzleof

meatmakingcontactwiththeheatsentuparushofsmokeandthesmellofsteakfilledthekitchen.Inafry
pan,shetossedbutterandasmallsplashofoil.Whenitmeltedtogethershetossedinthegreenvegetables
andstirredthemwhilekeepinganeyeonthesteaks.“Bettercalltheothersiftheywanttoeat.Itwon’tbe
longnow.”

Rorywalkedtothestairsandhurriedup.Shecouldheartheknockonadoorandthenvoicesbefore

hereturned.“They’llbedowninaminute.WantmetocheckonFisher?”

Ginashookherhead.“Heneverwakesuponcehe’sdown.”Shemixedthevegetablesagainbefore

pouringthemintoabowl.“Puttheseonthetableplease.”Rorytookthemanddidasshebid.Thesteaks
werecookingwellandGinalookedatthecolorchangingbeforeturningthemover.“Right,twominutes
andthenfiveforrestingandwe’redone.”

Rorycollectedthesaltandpepperandhotsaucefromthepantry,placedthemonthetable,andthen

leanedonthecounter,watchingher.

ChapterSeven

HEN

SHE

’

FINISHED

hermealhecouldseehereyelidsgettingheavyandinsistedsheleavethecleaning

ofthekitchentohim.

“I’llgladlywashupeverynightifyoucooklikethis.”Calliechewedthelastmorselofmeatfromthe

T-bonesteakanddroppeditonherplate,suckingherfingersclean.

“Thatwasdivine.I’llsecondmydearwife’sidea.Keepherawayfromthestoveandwe’llcleanup.”

ChanceduckedtheswingCallieplayfullysenthisway.Shesquealedwhenhegrabbedher,trappingher
handinhis.

“Letmewalkyouup.Youlookallin,Gina.”Roryhadheldherchairoutwhenshestoodup,swaying

slightlyonherfeet.“It’sbeenabigfewdaysforyou.”

“Yes, it has but I expected a certain amount of upheaval. Thank you all for being so welcoming. I

reallydoappreciateitmorethanIcansay.”ShesmiledandthenlookedatRorywhoheldhishandoutto
her.

Whenshetookit,hesmiledandgrippedherfingers.“Let’sgetyoutuckedin.”Hereyeswidenedand

he kicked himself. “I didn’t mean I was going to tuck you in. I mean you can do that.” He gave up and
pulledheroutofthekitchenandupthestairs,ignoringtheroaroflaughterbehindhim.

“It’sokay,Iknowwhatyoumeant.”Sheheldontightashehelpedherupstairs.Theystoppedoutside

herbedroomdoorwhichwasslightlyajar.Ginapusheditopenandglancedatherbaby,fastasleeponhis
back,handsoverhisheadandblanketskickedoff.Hislittlemouthworkedashetalkedinhisdreams.

“He is the sweetest little thing.” Rory couldn’t believe how attached he already was to the chubby

littleboy.

“Yeahheis.ButI’mbiased.”Shewipedahandoverhereyesandyawned.“Sorry,it’sbeenatough

coupleofdaysandI’mbushed.”

Rory rested a hand on her shoulder and glanced into her eyes. “Go to bed and don’t worry about

anything.Ihavetogotoworkinthemorningbutyoucansleepinaslongasyoulike.Ishouldbehome
justafterthreeo’clock.Ifyouneedanythingcallmeordrivedowntotown.Thesheriff’sofficeiseasyto
find.”Heleanedforwardandkissedherforeheadbeforesteppingback.

“ButIwanttogoovertothecottageanddosomework.”
“Youdon’thavetokeepprovingyourself,Gina.Taketomorrowofftocatchyourbreath,andwhenI

gethomeI’llchattoyouaboutwhatneedstobedoneandwe’lltakeitfromthere.Deal?”

“Okay,deal.”
“Sleeptight.”
“Thanks,Rory,foreverything.”
Heshutthedoorbehindhimandthoughtaboutgoingdownstairsagainbutchangedhismind.Hisroom

wasbathedindarknesswhenheopenedthedoor.Heflickedonthelightandlookedatthelargeempty
bed. He’d slept alone for far too long. Today had been hectic to say the least. Finding out his intended
bridehadachildhadthrownhimforasix.Ifhewashonestwithhimself,ithadthepotentialtobeagood
thingregardlessofhisinitialreaction.Hewarmedtoherfasterthanhethoughtpossible.Itwastheguilt
nippingathisheelsthatwouldkeephimawakefornightstocome.Heknewthesigns.

He wandered in and kicked off his shoes. Chance had blown him away with his admission. Rory

wonderediftheothersknewwhathisbrotherhadgonethroughtomaketheirliveseasier.Hisfatherhad
neversaidathingaboutit.Catchingupwiththeoldmanhadbeenonhislistofthingstodo.Nowitwas
nearerthetopofthelist.Itwastimeforthetruthandheintendedtogetit.

Heheadedintothebathroom,strippedoffhisclothes,andleftthemonthefloorbeforeturningoffthe

lightandslidingbetweenthesheets.Sleepevadedhimforhoursasheknewitwould.Wasitthewoman
sleepinginthebednextdoorwhocouldbehiswiththerightword,orwasitthethoughtsofahappyhome
hehadyettomakerunningthroughhishead?PerhapsitwastheguiltoffinallysayinggoodbyetoCindy’s
memorythatkepthimtossinginhisbed.

It was almost dawn before he dozed off. When the alarm on his watch jolted him out of sleep the

followingmorning,hegroanedandrubbedhisface.Itwasgoingtobeaverylongday.

Chancewasatthetablesippingcoffeewhenhegotdowntothekitchen.HelookedupatRoryand

laughed.“Whatthehellhappenedtoyou?”

“Don’tknowwhatyoumean.”Hepouredhimselfacoffeeanddrankitstandingatthecounterstaring

outthewindowatthesnowonthemountain.Rorywonderedhowonearthhe’dmanagedtostayawayfor
solong.

“Maybeyoushouldjustgiveinandadmityouwanttomarryherandgetoverit.Havingawomanin

yourbedmakessleepingsomuchmorefun.Lookatme,restedandfreshcomparedtoyou.”

“Fuckoff.”
CalliewaltzedintothekitchenwithFisherinherarmsandgrinned.“Gee,someonedidn’tsleepvery

welllookingatthatsulkyface,andI’llthankyounottocussinfrontofthebaby.”

“Where’sGina?”HeheldhisarmsoutfortheboyandFisherreachedforhim,snugglingdownagainst

hisshoulderasiftheywereoldfriends.Thatfeelingofcontentmentrolledoverhisshoulders,bitingathis
cheek.Hebrusheditoff.

“Sleepinglikethedead.Figuredsheneededit.PoorthinghashadahardtimeofitsowhenIheard

thislittlemunchkingurglingIsnuckinandgrabbedhim.”

“Thanks.WonderwhatIshouldgivehimtoeat?”
“Maybeadrinkfirstthensomecereal.Ginaleftthesippycuponthecounter,can’tbethathardtoheat

upabitofmilkcanit?Heck,Icanmakeformulaforcalves,thisshouldbeabreezein.”

“What?”Chancestaredatherandsheexplained.
“Breezein,meanseasytodo.”Calliewentandgrabbedamugofcoffee,tookasip,andplonkediton

thetablebeforeshetookthebottleofmilkfromthefridge.“Simple.”IttookhernotimetowarmFisher’s
firstdrinkfortheday.Whenitwasdeemedtobetheperfecttemperature,shehandeditovertoRoryand
lethimfeedthehungrybaby.

Hesatdownonachairandsnuggledthebabyinhisarms.Hislittlepudgyhandswrappedaroundthe

sippycupandhelookedupintoRory’seyesashesuckedthemilkdown.“Hungrylittleman,aren’tyou?”

FisherreacheduponehandandplayedwithRory’schin,digginghisfingersintohislip.Onedayand

hewashopelesslybesottedwiththisbaby.Whowouldhavethoughtitwouldbethiseasy?

Acoughsnappedhimfromthelove-infuseddazehewasin.RorylookedupandsawbothCallieand

Chancegazingathimwithasoppyexpressionontheirfaces.“What?”

“Thatsuitsyou.You’llmakeagreatfather,Rory.”Calliegrinned.“You’reaveryluckyman.”
“Ihaven’tagreedyet.”
“You’re only kidding yourself and you know it. Put the poor girl out of her misery and propose

properly.”Chancestoodupanddumpedhiscoffeemuginthesink.“I’dbettergettowork.Iwanttoget
thosesteersinandcheckedover.Wehavetobrandthembeforeweletthemouttograzeintheforestnext
week.”

“Letmemakeyousometoastandthenwecangodowntogether.”Calliewaltzedoverandtookaloaf

of bread from the pantry, then popped two slices in the toaster before taking the peanut butter and jelly
fromthefridge.

AnanguishedcryfromupstairshadRoryjumpingtohisfeet,Fisherclutchedtohischest.Ginahurried

downstairsandintothekitchen,clutchinghernightgowninfrontofherbreasts.Thepaniconherfacetore
athisheartandheknewwhatshe’dbeenthinking.She’dwokenupfromadeepsleep,forgottenwhere
shewas,andcouldn’tfindherbaby.

He hurried over to her and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. “Shh, it’s okay. You were fast

asleepandhewasawakesoCalliebroughthimdown.”Herubbedherback,tryingtosettlethesickening
gaspscomingfromherlips.Afterafewminutes,shemanagedtobreathenormallyandhereleasedher.

“Oh,Gina,I’msosorry.Ineverthoughtyouwouldmindifwelookedafterhim.”Calliesteppedover

andwrappedherarmsaroundhernewfriendandsqueezedtight.“Wemadeadrinkandhe’sbeenalittle
angel.Ithoughtyoucouldhaveabitofasleepin.Youwereshatteredyesterday.”

“I’mtheonewhoshouldbesorry.Ijustwokeupandpanicked,forgettingwhereIwasforamoment.

Sorrytomakesuchafuss.”Shewipedherbedhairfromherfaceandgavethemanapologeticglance.

“Don’tworryaboutit.Howaboutyougoup,haveahotshower,andgetdressedwhileImakeapotof

freshcoffee?”Calliepushedheroutofthekitchenwithgentleforceandwatchedassheclimbedupthe
stairs.WhenGinawasoutofsight,sheturnedbacktoherhusbandandbrother-in-law.“Thatpoorgirlhas
somemajorissueshappening.Mightpayustotreadgentlyforadayortwo,lethergetusedtousbefore
westarttakingoverherlife.”

“Shecamefromareallyrougharea.AlmosthadtogiveupFisherbecauseshecouldn’taffordtokeep

goinganylonger.”Rorykissedthebaby’shead.“I’lllookafterthem,don’tyouworryaboutthat.”

“Knew you’d see reason sooner or later.” Chance stood up and walked over to take the almost-

charredtoastfromhiswife.Heglancedatitandfrowned,hislipsturningdownatthecorners.

“What?Stopbeingsocritical.Didn’tyouknowcharcoalisgoodforyourteeth?Makesthemsuper

white. Eat it and stop complaining.” Callie grabbed a yogurt from the fridge and stood at the counter
eatingit.

“Ifit’ssogoodthenwhyaren’tyoueatingit?”
Shepointedherspoonathimandglared.“Watchit,pal,oryou’llbeoutdoingyourownbranding.”
AslightlymorecomposedGinacamebackdownthestairstenminuteslater.Shewoundherhairup

andtieditinaknotwithaband.Fisherspattheemptycupfromhismouthandreachedforhismother.

“How’sMama’slittlebabyboy?”ShetookholdofhimandRoryfeltthecoldreplacethesmallwarm

bodyassheliftedhimup.“Didyouletmesleepin?Suchagoodlittleman.”

“I’msorry.Ididn’tmeantoupsetyoubytakinghim.Itjustseemedlikethethingtodoconsideringyou

weresotired.”Calliepouredheracoffeeandplaceditonthetable.

“No, I should be apologizing to you guys. All you’re doing is trying to be nice and I flipped out.”

FisherstooduponhisfeetandbouncedonGina’sknee.

“Youhaveeveryright.Ifyouseehimmissingagain,youcanguaranteeit’llbeoneofusthathashim.

Nobodycomesuphereanywaysodon’tgoworryingaboutstrangers.Besides,Sherbetwouldhavethem
beforetheycouldgetintothehouse.”SheglancedatthedogsittingandwatchingeverybiteChancetook
ofhistoast,ahopefullookinhereyes.

“IknowandI’msorryIpanicked.I’mjustnotusedtohavinganyonehelpout.Now,whatcanIdo?I

didpromiseyouFrenchtoastforbreakfast.”

“Nah,it’sallgood.Savethatfortomorrow.Wehavetogettoworkorwe’llnevergetdonetoday.”

CalliedroppedakissonFisher’sheadbeforewalkingovertothebackdoorandtakingherhatfroma

hook, plonking it firmly on her head. “Come down to the barn later if you want a look around. In the
meantime,makeyourselfathomeanddowhateveryoufeellike.”

“Ditto.” Chance dropped his cup in the sink and threw the last charred crust to Sherbet before he

joinedhiswife.Togethertheywalkedoutwiththedoghurryinginfrontofthem,herbushytailwaggingin
excitement.

“Well, I’d better get to work too.” Rory pulled out his wallet and took out a credit card which he

placedonthecounter.“Iwantyoutohavethisandbeforeyoustartprotesting,pleasedon’t.Ipaythefood
billshere,it’smycontribution.”Herattledoffhispinnumber.“Fornow,yourpartinthishouseisgoing
tobethecookingifyoucandealwithit.YouknowCalliehatesitandsinceIdon’talwaysgethomeearly,
itdoesn’tmakesensetorelyonmeforadecentfeed.”Hesmiledandwalkedovertostandinfrontofher.
“Ifyouneedanythingatall,forthehouseorforyourselves,usethecardtobuyit.Anditmightpaytofill
upyourcarwithgastoo,nexttimeyougointotown.”

“Thankyou.”
“No, thank you for trusting me enough to come all this way with your baby on the chance that this

couldworkbetweenus.”Heleaneddownandkissedheronthelips.Asoftkissthatbarelytouchedher
skinbutsentallkindsofsignalstohisbody.“We’lltalkabouttherenovationstothecottagetonightifwe
havetime.Youtwohaveagooddaynow.”RorybrushedhisfingeracrossFisher’scheekbeforewalking
outandshuttingthedoorbehindhim.

SAT

STUNNED

atthetablewhileherbabygurgledonherlap.Whathadjusthappened?Roryhadgiven

herhiscreditcardandtoldhertobuywhateversheorFisherwanted.Thatdidn’tsoundabitliketheman
who’dmetherattherun-downcottageyesterday.Whathadshesaidordonetochangehismind?Perhaps
theyhadmadeagoodimpressionafterall.Sheclosedhereyesandsaidasilentprayerofthanks.

FisherwriggledandGinaheldhimup.“Babyboy,thisdiaperiswaytoowetformyliking.Let’sget

youdressedbeforeIgiveyoubreakfast.”Sheslippedhimontoherhipandhurriedupstairstochangehim
intocleanclothes.WhenGinafinisheddressingherbaby,shebrushedherteethandmadethebed,letting
Fisherplayonthefloorexploringtheirroom.

Readytogodowntothekitchenandstartcleaning,shepickedhimupandtheyheadedbacktoward

thestairs.WhenshepassedRory’sbedroomshepaused,herinquisitivenaturegettingthebetterofher.
Opening the door, Gina glanced in. The room was the same as hers without the clutter she already had
spread around. The woodsy fresh smell she already associated with him scented the room and she
imaginedtheirbodiesentangledinthesheetstogether.Howlonghaditbeensinceshe’dbeenwithaman?
FartoolongandtohaveoneascharmingandhandsomeasRorywithinreachwasalltootempting.She
closedthedoor,guiltchasinghertailallthewaydowntothekitchen.

Ginafoundoatmealinthepantryanddecidedthatwasagoodstartforthebothofthem.SheletFisher

playonthekitchenfloorwithasmallpotandawoodenspoonwhileshecookedtheirbreakfast.Together
they ate at the table, the baby on her lap which made for a messy meal. Gina was used to it. She was
becoming a master at avoiding small busy hands that reached for her spoon every time she tried to get
somethinginherownmouth.

Afteraquickcleanup,shedecidedthatifshedidaloadofwashingtoday,preppeddinner,andgave

thehouseageneralcleanup,shecouldworkonRory’shousetomorrow.Whileonarollofdoingtheright
thinganddoingherbesttomakeanimpression,itseemedthemostlogicalsteptoher.Shehurriedback
upstairstograbtheirdirtyclothesbag.Fisherhadn’tmovedfromhispositionunderthekitchentableand

Ginaheadedtothebackofthehouseandloadedupthewasher.Whenshereturnedtothekitchenshehada
quickglanceinthefreezer,andpulledoutbigbagofsteakforacasserole.Sheleftitinthesinktothaw
out.

“Hey,baby,feellikeawalkoutside?Let’sgoandseetheanimals.”Shescoopedhimupandwalked

outside.Shepausedontheporchforamoment,takingstockoftheranchanditstremendousviews.The
nipintheairtouchedherbarecheeks;thesky,crispandclear,heldherhostagewhileshetookitallin.It
was so good to be out in the country and not in the city anymore. She could see the snow caps on the
mountainsandsmiled.Thiswouldbeafirstrealwinterforhertoo.Makingsnowmenwithherbabywas
goingtobesomuchfun—that’sifshewasherelongenoughtodoso.

Thinkpositive,Gina.Ifyoucanproveyou’renotscaredofhardwork,hewillhopefullygothrough

withthedeal.Hereallyhasnothingtolosewhileyouhave,well…everything.

Chickensscratchedintheyardandafewofthemranuptoher,theirfluffybuttswaddlingfromsideto

side, expecting food. When they realized she had nothing for them, they gave up and went back to their
earlierforaging,scratchinginthedirt.Fisherclappedhishandswhenhesawthehorsesinthepaddock
and Gina stopped and called out to them, hoping to attract at least one of them to come over but to no
avail.Theyreceivedacuriousglanceandnothingmore.

Shepushedopenthedoortothebarnandlookedinsideforthechickens’food.Itmightbeagoodidea

to feed them and collect the eggs. Every small job she did around the ranch was something the others
didn’thavetodoand,inasmallway,italsomadeherfeellikeshewaspullingherweight.Tubsofwheat
werelinedupagainstonewallandtheyhadscoopsinside,makingiteasiertodispensetothestock.Gina
lookedaroundforabucketandhalffilleditwithwheatand,withFisheronherhip,wentlookingforthe
chickencoop.

Shesprinkledwheatasshewalked,feelinglikethepiedpiperasthechickensallhurriedtojoinher.

Fisher squealed in pleasure and wriggled to get down. “Not yet, baby. Let’s wait until we come to
somewherecleanerandyoucangoforit.”

When they’d fed the poultry and collected the eggs, she carried Fisher up to the house and let him

downonthegrasstoplay.Sincesheneverwentveryfarfromhim,shesatdownonthebackporchand
watchedasheexploredhisnewsurroundings.Itwaspleasanthere.Morethanpleasantactually,itwas
wonderful,almostmagical.Shegazedoutovertheranchandsighed.Whatshewouldn’tdotomakethis
workbetweenherandRory.

Ginapluckedapieceofgrassandstartedshreddingitwithhernails.She’dbeenpreparedtostruggle

withherfeelingsforthemanshewastomarryandwasmorethanreadyforthat.Afterspendingtimewith
himyesterdayandthismorning,shedoubtednotgettingonwithhimwasgoingbeanissue.Hehelddown
agoodjob,hadahomeofhisown,andgreatfamilysurroundinghim.Everythingshewasmissinginher
ownlife.

It wouldn’t have been fair to Fisher to not take this chance. Staying in the city hadn’t been worth

thinkingabout,notwhenshewasatthestageofmakingthedecisiontogiveupherbaby.Itwasclose,so
close,andnowshefeltsicktoherstomachthinkingaboutit.Ithadtakendaysofsoulsearchingaftershe
lostherjobandcouldn’tfindanotherone.Dayswhenallshewantedtodowashideunderthethreadbare
blanketsonherbedandnotbetheadultsheknewshehadtobe.Dayswhenshewenthungrybecausethe
costofformulawashigherthanshecouldafford.

NowRoryhadgivenheranotherchanceandshewoulddowhatevershehadtoinordertomakethis

work.Fisherjammedafistfullofgrassintohismouthandspatitout,lookingatherasifitwasherfault
when he found out it didn’t taste as nice as it could have. Gina hooked her finger into the dribbles and
pulledoutastrand,wipingitonthelegsofherjeans.“Bubba,pleasedon’teatthat.Yucky.”

Shescoopedhimupand,ignoringhisprotests,headedinsidetocollectthewashingfromthemachine.

SheletFisherplayonthekitchenfloorwhilesheloadedthebasket,listeningforanychangeofnoise.Yes,
shewasoverprotective,shegotthat.Livingwiththebaby’sfatherhadtaughtherthattheonlypersonthat
wasgoingtolookafterherandherchildwasherself.

Aden had been fun when they first met. She was waitressing at a diner when he walked in with a

group of friends and sat at her table. He’d flirted shamelessly and she’d been won over when he was
waitingforherwhenshecameoffhershift.Beforesheknewwhathappened,he’dmovedinwithherand
theywereacouple.

Whilesheworked,hedisappeared,notsayingwherehewasgoingorwhathewasdoing.It’dtakena

fewmonthsbeforeGinarealizedhewasusingand,nomatterwhatshesaid,hewouldn’torcouldn’tgive
up.Determinedtobetterherselfandadvancehercareer,Ginahadtoldhimtoleavebutherefused.He’d
beggedandpromiseduntilitbecametoohardforhertofightanymore.Thesmallamountofsavingsshe
had hidden in her coffee jar disappeared and even that wasn’t worth fighting over. Life had suddenly
turnedsourandshecouldthinkofnowayout.Andonceshefoundoutshewaspregnant,therewasno
pointintryinganymore.

Aden went on bender after bender and Gina knew it was only a matter of time before he killed

himself.Onemorningshe’drolledoverandreachedforhimonlytofindAdencoldbesideher.Aloneand
pregnantwithnoprospects,nomoney,andnohope,shetookstockofheroptionsanddidn’tlikewhatshe
saw.Adenmighthaveleftheraloneanddestitutebuttherewasnowayshewasgoingtolaydownand
give up. She had a child to bring into the world and it was going to take every scrap of her ability to
survive.Thiswasn’tthetimetofalldownandfeelsorryforherself,andwithnofamilytoleanon,Gina
hadtostrengthenherbackboneandtakeontheunpleasanttasksherself.

Thefirstthingshedidwassellmostofherfurnitureandmoveintoaflophousetakingonlyoneroom

forherselfandthebarenecessities.Sheworkedthroughherpregnancyuntildeliveryandonlytookoffa
fewdaysbeforegoingbacktowork.HerelderlyneighborsatwiththenewbabywhileGinaearnedas
muchmoneyasshecould.HerwholeworldrevolvedaroundFisherandshewasdeterminedtogivehim
abetterlifethanshe’dhadherself.

Shepushedthememoriesawayandconcentratedonthehereandnow.Withthebasketunderherarm,

shetookFisher’shandandwalkedhimbackoutsidetotheclotheslinewhereheplayedwiththebucketof
pegswhileshehungoutthewashing.

ChapterEight

ORY

LOOKED

FORWARD

to seeing Gina in town today. He’d all but invited her in since she’d resisted

everydaysofarsincethey’darrived,insistingshegotothecottage.Preferringtospendhertimeworking,
she’dtakenabitofconvincingtomeethimforacoffeeaftershe’ddonewhatsheconsideredwereher
chores.HopefullyshewouldletCallielookafterFisherandtheycouldhavesometimealonetogether.
He’d decided to take her into the jewelry store and buy her a ring, making his intentions clear. Chance
wasright,hewasgoingtomarryherregardlessofhisinitialreactionandshedeservedtoknowthat.It
mightmakeherrelaxandtrusthimmoretoo.Hegotthefeelingthatshewaswaitingfortheaxetofalland
hehatedtheunsettledlookinhereyeswhenshethoughtnobodywastakinganynoticeofher.

Lastnighthe’dmadepeacewithhimselfandCindy’smemory.Shewouldn’twanthimaloneforthe

restofhislifeanditwasoverthreeyearssinceshe’ddied.Itwastimetomoveonbutithadtakenhim
daysofarguingwithhimselftofinallycometotherealizationthatifheletGinago,hemightnotbeso
luckynexttime.

He’dlaininbed,lookedattheceilingandspoketohiswifeforthelasttime.

“I’ve missed you every single moment since you left. You were my first big crush, my first love.

Seeingyouwalkintotheroomwouldmakemydaybrighter,Cindy.”Histhroatthickenedashesaid
hername.“ButIcanimagineyoulookingdownonmewithascowlonyourface,sayinghowstupidly
I’vebeenbehaving.”Roryswallowed.

“Iknowyou’rerightbutthatdoesn’tmakeitanyeasier.IlostbigpartofmyselfwhenIlostyou

andthebaby.I’llneverforgetyouorthelifewe’dstartedbutIknowIhavetomaketheefforttomove
on,toliveagain.Gina,well,sheneedssomeone.HerandFisherneedsaving,almostmorethanIdo.”

Thesoundofababygigglinginhissleepcamefromnextdoor.Rorysmiled,amazedathowquickly

he’dfallenforthetoddler.“Thingis,IthinkwealldeserveachancesoI’mgoingtogoforit.Since
she’s been here, she’s worked harder than I think is necessary but she’s not the kind to sit back and
waitforlifetohappen.Iadmirethatabouther.She’sadoer.Ithinkwe’llbegoodtogether.”

Emotion clogged his throat and he cleared it. “So, this is the last time I’m going to do this. I’m

lettingyoulieinpeacewhileItrytogetmylifebacktogether.Don’tthinkI’llforgetyou,becauseI
won’t.ThatIpromiseyou.”

Rorywipedhishandacrosshiseyesandsighed.Hadhedonetherightthingorwastherestillsome

doubtinthebackofhismind?Timewouldtell.Herolledoverandslept,theburdenofsurvivor’sguilt
liftedfromhisshoulders.

FOLLOWING

MORNING

,Rorywalkedoutpastthefrontdeskandspoketotheofficeronduty.“I’mgoing

forawalkaroundtown,seewhat’shappeningonthestreetstoday.Callifyouneedme.”

“Surething,Rory.”
Thesunshonebrightandhetippeddownhishatoverhiseyes.HespiedMillyForester,theirfather’s

neighbor,overfeedingthebirdsintheparkaswasherdailyhabit.Hecheckedtheroadandcrossedover

tosayhellotoher.

“Mrs. Forester. Nice day for a sit in the park.” He walked over and sat down on the picnic stool,

watchinghercrumbleupthebreadshe’dbroughtfromthebakeryasshedideveryday.

“That it is, young man.” She threw the handful of crumbs and the sparrows squabbled over it like

noisy children. “Hear tell your daddy is keen to see you. Been back home for long enough to make the
effortifyouaskme.”

“Don’tpullanypunches,doyou?”
“WhywouldIdothat?Knownyoulongasyou’vebeenonthisearth.Smackedthatbuttofyoursatime

ortwoaswell.”Shelaughedandnudgedhimwithherelbow.

“Thatso?NotsureIrememberthat.”Hesmiledasherememberedthequickslapofherhandwhen

he’d thought he’d gotten away with something. It was always a shock to find he wasn’t a smart as he
thoughthewas.

“Yeah, well, only had to do it a couple of times and then you got yourself sorted out. Stopped you

givingyourpoorfatherahardtimeandgotyoutodowhatyoushouldhavedoneinthefirstplace.”

“FromwhatIremembergrowingup,notsurehedeservedtoomuchfromhissons.Ifiguredhethought

moreofhisbottlethanusboys.”Rorysighed.Hehadn’tmeanttogetintothisconversationwithhertoday,
hehadonlyintendedgivingherarespectfulhello.

“Nowyoulistentome,youngman.Whenyourpoormotherpassedover,wellyourdaddyalmostdied

alongwithher.Notsayingit’srightorwrong,justthewayitis.Brokehisheartandhecouldn’tfunction
nomore.Luckyyouhadyourbigbrothertohelpoutwhenhedid.”

“SoIhear.”
“He’sdonewellthelastfewyears,youknow.Yourdaddy’sbeentoAAandkickedthebottle.Starting

togethimselfsortedout.”Shethrewmorebreadtothebirdsbeforeshelookedupathim.“Youshould
knowwhatitfeelslike,son.You’vebeenthoughityourself.IthoughtofyouwhenIheardthenews,Rory.
Wish I’d been closer to help out; sadly what’s done is done.” She screwed up the paper bag the bread
cameinandpushedherselftoherfeet.“Don’tgomakingthesamemistakeyourdaddydideither.You’ve
got a chance at making a go of it with that lovely little girl I met last week when she came into town.
Don’tblowit.”

“Howtheheckdoyouknowwhat’sgoingon?”Rorystoodupandlookeddownather.
“Notblind,Rory.”Shepattedhimonthehand.“Bringhertoseemesoon.Ratherpartialtothatlittle

oneofhers,arightlittlecutieheis.Hehelpedmefeedthebirdsthedaytheyarrived.Knewtherewas
somethinggoingoninherhead.Twoofakindyouare,bothneedingsomethingandnotsureifyou’llever
findit.Perfectmatchifyouaskme.”

“Don’trightlyknowifIwasasking,actually.”
“Stillgotthatsmartmouthofyours,Rory.Itsuitsyousomehowthough.”Shestartedtowalkaway.
“I’llbesuretotellheryouaskedafterherthen.”
“Anddon’tforgettogoseeyourdaddy.Man’sstillhurting.”Shewavedahandintheairandtottered

off,leavinghimstandingaloneinthepark.

“Hurting,”right. He crossed the road and started walking toward the old house he’d grown up in.

He’dmeanttocomesoonerbutsomethingalwaysgotintheway.Thefrontfencebadlyneededofacoat
ofwhitewashandthegatelaytilted,brokenononehinge.Hewonderedwhenthelawnswerelastmowed
and the thought of offering crossed his mind. Rory stepped onto the cracked path and headed up to the
frontdoor.Hismother’soldrockingchairstillsatonthefrontporch.Thecushionswerenowfadedand
threadbare,butitstillheldplaceofpride.Memoriesofhersittingtherelookingoutoverthefrontgarden
hithiminthegutandhehurriedupthestairstotheopendoor.Thebuttonhadn’tworkedforyearssohe

raisedhishandandknockedonthedoorframe,rattlingthepeelingtimber.

“Comein.”Thecracklingvoicewasn’thowherememberedhisfathersounding.Rorysteppedintothe

hallwayandthememorieswashedoverhim.Beingtwelveyearsoldandwatchinghisbigbrotherslam
outthefrontdoorwithasatcheloverhisshouldercarryingeverythingheownedintheworld,hurtinghim
beyondmeasure.Thegrowlofhisfatherwhenthebrothersmadetoomuchnoiseinthemorningwhenhe
wassufferingfromaheadache,ashedidmostmorningsafterabignightonthebottle.Thedirtyclothes
piledupbesidethewashingmachineanddishesnobodywantedtocleanbeforetheywenttoschoolinthe
morning.

“Inhere.”
Rorysteppedintothekitchenandsawthebentoldmanleaningoverthesink,hishandsinhotsoapy

waterashedidhisdishes.

“What can I do for you?” His father turned and his eyes widened when he saw who was standing

there.“Rory,isthatyou,son?”

Hisfatherwipedhishandsonateatowel,droppeditonthecounter,andwalkedover.Hiseyesshone

withwonderandheheldoutahandtotouchthefaceoftheboyhehadn’tseenforalmosttenyears.Rory
heldback.Heneededagoodreasontoforgivehisfatherforthelostyearsbeforetheywerebacktothe
lovingrelationshiptheyhadbeforeitallwentbad.

Over a cup of tea, he listened to apologies and regrets for the way his father had treated them. “I

totallylostit,I’llfreelyadmitit.Ilovedyourmothersomuchmyworldfellapartwithouther.”

“Youhadus,Dad.Welosthertoo.”
“Iknowthat,buttherewasnothingIcoulddo.Therewasnoreasoningwithme.I’llneverbeableto

forgivemyselfforignoringyouboysandthinkingofmyselffirst.Itwaswrongofme.”

“YouknowwhatIcan’tforgiveyoufor?”
Thewateryeyesglanceddownatthetableasifdreadingwhatwascoming.
“Ican’tforgiveyouformakingChanceleave.Fornotstoppinghim.”Roryclearedhisthroat,pushing

downtheemotionthatroseandthreatenedtocutoffhisairsupply.“Andyouneveroncetoldusitwas
himthatkeptusfedandclothedwhileyouwallowedinsideyourbottle.Howcouldyoudothattohim,to
us?”

Hisfather’shandstartedtoshake,spillingteaontheold,scarredFormicatable.Heputthecupdown

and gripped his hands together, steadying the shakes. “He made my life easier. Meant I could drink my
troublesawayandforgetabouteverythingforawhile.”

“Itwasn’tawhile,Dad.Itwasyearsandyears.”
Theoldmannoddedhishead.“You’reright.Ididn’tgivehimanycreditforwhathedid.Hekeptthis

family together while I distanced myself from everyone I loved, everyone I still love. He deserves a
medalforthat.HewasmoreofafathertoyouboysthanIeverwas.”

“Yeah,hewas.”
Rorysippedatthealmost-coldtea,thetastebitterinhismouth.Howlongwashegoingtohatehis

father for what happened? It seemed a waste of time when life was so short. He knew that from losing
Cindy.Hateandregretwereemotionshedidn’tneedinhislife.Perhapsitwastimeforforgivenessand
mendingbridges.Tyson,hisyoungerbrother,seemedtohavemovedon,sowhynotRory?Itwastimefor
familiestocometogetherandbuildnewrelationshipsnowhehadGinaandFisherinhislife.Itwouldbe
niceforthemaswelltohavemore.HewonderedifChancewouldthinkthesamewayeventually.

“Tell me what’s happening with you. Milly Forester said you’re the new deputy sheriff now.” The

clearnessofhisfather’seyestoldthestory.Hewasn’tdrinkinganymoreandthehouse,althougholdand
worn, was clean, unlike when he was growing up. Rory made the obvious decision to move on and

forgive.

“Yes.AfterIlostmywifeIdidn’tknowwhattodo,bitlikeyouIguess.Iwanderedaroundaimlessly

foryearsuntilChancemanagedtogetholdofme.HewantedmetocomehomeandIwasthinkingaboutit
myself to tell the truth. I even got so far as to put in for a transfer. Then I received a call from Tyson.
Chance’dhadabadaccidentsoIcamebackhereearly.”

“Chance?Ihearhe’sonthemend,thankgoodness.Doyouthinkhe’lleverforgiveme?”Hisfather’s

lipstrembled.

“Whoknows?Givehimtimeandwe’llsee.Itwasgoodtotalktoyouagain,butIreallyhavetoget

backtowork.”Hestoodup,theyearsmeltingaway.“Callmeifyouneedanything,okay,Dad?”

Tears rolled down the wizened cheeks and Rory wished he could take back the missing years. He

knew exactly how his father felt when he lost his wife. If Rory were any other person, he could easily
havegonedownthesamepathofdestructionlosinghimselfinabottle.Hereachedforhisfatherandheld
thefrailshakingbodyclose.

“Thanks,son.AppreciateitandI’mdoingokaynowI’msober.Tookmeawhile.Ihavethingsunder

control.”

Roryputhishatonandhuggedhisfatheragain.“Seeyouaround.”Hewalkedout,thankfulhe’dhad

thechancetomakepeacewiththatpartofhislife.

Asheturnedintothemainstreet,afamiliarcardrovepastandpulledupinfrontofhisoffice.Gina

openedthedoorandslidherlegsout,climbedout,andsmootheddownherskirt.Hisheartracedasshe
stoodtherelookingaround,sotimidbutsolovely.Hehurriedback,wavingashecrossedtheroad.

“Hi.Gladyoudecidedtocomein.Where’sFisher?”
Hereyeswidenedwhenshesawhimandasmallhintofpinktintedhercheekswhichmadehischest

tighten.“Callieinsistedontakingcareofhim.Ithinkhehasherwrappedaroundhislittlefinger.”

Roryreachedherandputhisarmoverhershoulders.“Iknowhowshefeels.He’sgotmesortedtoo,

and Chance. Now that I have you here, how about a quick tour of the town before we have a coffee.
There’ssomethingIwanttoshowyou.”

“Sure.IsaidI’dbeacoupleofhourssoI’mallyours.”Shesmiledupintohisfaceandlethimlead

her down the street. He kept up a running commentary as they passed each shop. When they got to the
jewelers,hepushedthedooropenandguidedherin.Hermouthdroppedopenandshepaled.

“Ithinkit’sabouttimeIletyouknowhowIreallyfeel,don’tyou?”
“Areyousure,Rory?Reallysureaboutthis?”Shestaredathim,hopeinhereyesandalsofearthatit

wouldallcomecrashingdownaroundherears.Oncemoredoubttappedhimontheshoulderbutonlyfor
afleetingsecond.

“Yes,I’msure.Iwanttospendtherestofmylifewithyou,andFisher,andwhateverlifethrowsatus.

I’msickofbeingaloneandIwantyouifyou’llhaveme.”

Heignoredthegaspsofthesalesladywatchingthemandsankdownononeknee.“GinaTaylor,will

youpleasedomethehonorofbecomingmywife?”Heheldhisbreathandwaitedforhertoanswer.

LICKED

HER

top lip and swallowed the sudden fear racing up her throat. His eyes beseeched her to

answerhim.Thiswaswhatshe’dbeenwaitingfor,workingfor,andnowthathewasaskinghernerves
wereallovertheplace.“Yes,ifyou’resureit’swhatyoureallywant.”

Hestoodupandleanedintoher.Ginatookastepback,herbutthittingthewallashedippedhishead

downtohermouth.Shesankintothekiss,lettingherbodytakeover.Starvedofloveandaffection,she

wrapped her arms around his neck and opened her heart to him. His tongue pressed between her lips,
openinghermouthsohecouldtwisthistonguewithhers,sendinganeedtoherstomachthatthrilledherto
thecore.Ifitwasn’tfortheladywatchingthem,Ginawouldhaveraisedherlegandwrappeditaround
hishipstogetherbodycloserstill.

Whenhemovedback,shealmostcriedoutindistressatthedistancebetweenthem.
“Thatissoromantic,Deputy.Yousureknowhowtosweepagirloffofherfeet.”Thesalesassistant

clappedherhands,theirone-personcheersquadinfullflight.“Idohopeyou’reheretoletmehelpyou
choosearing.Heavenforbidyou’rejustusingtheinsideofmylittleshoptocreateshenaniganswiththe
younglady.”

Rorygrippedherhandandpulledhertothecounter.“Sandra?”Helookedathernametagandsmiled

withacharmthatmadeherblush.“MyfiancéeandIwouldlikeyoutohelpuschoosearing.”

“Well,itjustsohappensthatyou’vecometotherightplace.Whatdoestheladyprefer?Diamonds?”

SandralookedeagerlyatGina.

“Idon’thaveapreferenceactually.”Ginalookedatthetraysinfrontofherandshuddered.How on

earthdidanyonechoosebetweenallofthisstuff?

“Wellnow,letmegetoutsomethatIthinkwillsuityourhandandwecantakeitfromthere.Doyou

haveabudget,Deputy?”

Roryshookhishead.
Forthenexthourandahalf,SandrashowedthemringafterringuntilGinawasreadytopullherhair

out.Nothingstoodoutastheoneforher.Readytogiveup,sheturnedaway.“Gina,howaboutthisone?”
Rorypointedtoasmallblock-setringonaplaingoldband.

Sheglancedatit,readytoshakeherheadwhenshecaughtherself.“It’sperfect.”Whenitwasonher

finger,ahappinessshehadneverknowsettleduponhershoulders.Howhadshegottensolucky?Allthe
yearsofhardshipdriftedawayasshelookedatthemanwho’drescuedherfromalifeofpoverty.

“Happy?”Roryleanedonthecounterwatchingher.
“Happy.”
Togethertheywalkedbacktowardhisofficeholdinghands.“Areyousureit’swhatyouwanttodo,

Rory?IhatethethoughtthatImighthavepushedyouintothis.”

“No,youdidn’tpushmeintoit.Youcamehereingoodfaithafterwebothdecidedtogoaheadwith

this crazy idea. I realized I wasn’t being fair to you anyway, it was something I had to work out for
myself.Itwas selfishofme tokeepyou waitinglikethat afterI hadyoucome alltheway overhere.I
knowyousaidyouwoulddothisforFisher,butIwantedtodothisforyou,Gina.”

“That’ssosweet.”Shesqueezedhishand,asmileonherfaceandaspringinherstep.“Solongas

you’resure.Ipromisenomoresecretsbetweenus.I’llbeawifeyoucanbeproudof.”AndIwillmake
youproudofmebecauseI’mfallingsomuchinlovewithyoudaybyday.

HeliftedherhandandkissedherknucklesbeforepullingherintotheJavaCafé.“Timeforaquick

bitetoeatbeforeIhavetogobacktowork.”Theytookatablebythewindowandwaitedforsomeoneto
taketheirorder.

“Rory Watson. How wonderful to see you again.” Menus were placed in front of them. “Heard you

wereback.”

He looked up into the face of an old school friend. “Sally, good to see you too. Gina, this is Sally

Driscoll,bestbaristainMarietta.Shemakesameanlattefrommemory.Sally,myfiancé,GinaFletcher.”

“Lovelytomeetyou.WelcometoMarietta,Gina.NowwhatcanIgetyoutwolovebirds?”
OnceSallyhadtakentheirorder,theysatholdinghandsuntiltheirfoodarrived.Whentheyfinished

lunch, Rory paid for their meal and walked her out the door. Hand in hand they wandered over to his

office.

Shekissedhimonthestepsbeforehoppingintohercaranddrivingovertothefurniturestoretogeta

highchairforFisher.Itwasgettingtoohardtofeedhimonherkneewhensheneededtodootherthingsas
well.Findingwhatshewasafter,Ginapaidforitandtheshopkeeperloadeditinthebackofthecarfor
her. The hair on the back of her neck prickled as she got in behind the wheel and she shivered before
lookingaround.Itfeltasthoughsomeonewaswatchingher,althoughthereseemedtobenothingoutofthe
ordinaryhappening in town.No one lurkedunder lamp posts orhid behind cornerspeeking at her. The
kindofpeoplethatworriedherinSanFrancisco’spoorerstreetswerealongwayawayfromthissmall
countrytown.Shewasassafeasshecouldbehereundertheprotectionofthelocaldeputyandhisfamily.

ChapterNine

ORY

DECIDED

pickupGinaandFisherandtakethemtothecottagebeforedinner.Sofartheyhadn’t

managedtogetovertheretogetherforagoodlookwithhisworkscheduleandhewantedtoseewhatelse
she’ddone.Ifheknewwhatshewantedinhernewhome,hecouldstartthecontractorsanditwouldn’tbe
toolongbeforethey’dbeintheirownplace.Whenhepulledupattheranchhouse,shewasouttheback
bringinginabasketofwashingandFisherwastotteringaroundthelawnonhischubbylittlelegs.

Gina smiled and waved when he hopped out of his truck, hurrying over to greet him. His arms

wrappedaroundherwelcomingbody,Roryleaneddownforamuchneededkiss.Shetastedlikewarm
sunshineandroses,herlipssoftandsuppleunderhis.Heslidhishandsdownoverherbacktocupher
butt,liftingheragainsthisawakeningbody.Themoancomingfromherthroatsenthisbloodracingandhe
decidedthenandtherethattonighthewouldgotoherbed.Theywerebothreadyforeachother.

Asmallfistgrabbedaholdofhisjeanslegandslappedagainsthim.Rorybrokethekissandlooked

down, a smile readily coming to his lips. “Looks like this young man wants the attention his mama is
getting.”HekissedGinaonthenoseandleaneddowntopickupFisher.Thechildwriggledandbashed
hissmallfistsagainstRory’schest,excitementevidentonhislittleface.

“Seemstomeyou’vemadeahitwiththebiggestcritic.Hedoesn’tusuallytaketomanypeoplelikehe

haswithyou.”Ginabentoverandpickedupthewashingbasket,hitchingitonherhip.

“Thefeelingismutual,believeme.Ilovethelittleguyalready.”Hefollowedherinsidethehouseand

watchedassheplacedthebasketonachairandstartedtofoldthelaundry.“Ithoughtsinceit’snotlate,
we could go to the cottage and maybe work out what you want in a home so the contractors can get
started.”

“Areyouforreal?IthoughtIwoulddoabigcleanupandweweremovingin.”Shestoodstill,the

foldingsuddenlyforgotten.“Ididn’tthinkyouwereseriousaboutguttingthehouse.”

HervoicehadchilledandRorywaswary.“No,Iwasalwaysgoingtofixitup.There’snowayI’d

expect you to move into it like that. The kitchen has to be, what—thirty years out of date?” He had a
sinkingfeelingshewasn’tashappyashethoughtshe’dbebythisnews.

“So, tell me, why did you pretend that was my new home then?” Gina’s face showed her building

displeasure,herlipstightandpressedtogether.“Whyletmeworkmybuttoffmakingithabitableifyou
wereonlygoingtogoandmessitup?”

“Youseemedhappierdoingit,sowhynot?”
Shetiltedherheadandlookedathim,waitingformore.
“And,well,inthebeginningIwantedtoseeifyouweremoney-orientedornot.Ifyouknewwhomy

brotherwas,youmightthinkitwasaneasytickettothegoodlife.NotthatIthinkyou’relikethatnow
I’vemetyouandI’veseenhowhardyou’vetriedtomakethehouseahomeforus.ButIwantedsomeone
to marry me for me and not what they thought I could offer.” This wasn’t feeling good and he knew he
shouldhavekepthismouthshutandjusttoldhershedeservedbetter,notestinvolved.She’dmorethan
proventhattohim.

Shethumpedhimonthearm,herknucklesdiggingintohisskin.“Youhaveanegothesizeofahouse,

RoryWatson.Ifyouknewmypast,you’dknowthatmoneymeansnothing,especiallywhenIgrewupwith
lessthannothing.Funnyhowyoulearntogetbywhenyoudon’thaveany.Howmuchisitgoingtotaketo

getitthroughyourthickskull?ImightbepoorbutI’mnotmercenary.”

Herlipsthinnedandhereachedforher,tryingtostaveofftherisingtemper.Bravewouldbetheman

whocrossedGinawhenshewasinamood.“I’msorry,Ididthatallwrong.Pleaseforgiveme.”

Ginaleanedagainsthischestandhecouldfeelherbreathingslowdownastheangersubsided.Wayto

go,Rory.Helookedupasatruckpulledintotheyardbesidehisandhisshouldersagged.Rightnowthis
wasabadtimeforTysontoshowup.

“Hey.”Hekissedthetopofherheadandleaneddowntolookintohereyes.“Wehaveavisitor.My

youngerbrotherTysonishere.Don’tletanythinghesaysgettoyou,okay?Hisbigmouthcansometimes
behisdownfall,althoughheusuallymeanswell.We’lltalkabouttherenovationslater.”

Roryturnedasthetruckdoorslammedandbootssoundedonthegravelthentheporch.Thelookof

surpriseonhisbrother’sfaceashespiedFishernestledinhisarmswouldhavebeenhilariousifRory
didn’tknowtherewouldbeaninterrogationtofollow;hewasalltooawareofhowTysonworked.The
reasonhewasshunnedbythebrothersasakidwasbecausehewasalwaystellingonthemtotheirfather.
Nothingwasasecretwithhimaroundandithadn’tchangedovertheyearsashe’dgrownolder.

Rorywalkedoverandopenedthedoor,breakinghisbrother’strance-likestare.“Hey,what’sup?”
TysonlookedatFisherandthenpeeredoveratGina.“Uh,justthoughtI’dcomeupandseeifChance

isinterestedinacoupleofstockhorsesI’vecomeacross.NotreallywhatIwantbecausethey’rebroken
inandIneedbuckingbroncos.”HescratchedhisheadandpulledhisgazebacktoRory.“Yeah,Idon’t
needthembutthey’recheapanditwouldbeashametoseethemgotothegluefactory.”

“Howmucharewelookingathere,Tyson?”RoryrelaxedwhenGinaslippedherarmthroughhisand

inwardlygrinnedwhenhisbrother’seyesbuggedoutofhishead.

“Ah,um…sorrywhatwasthat?”
“Isaid,howmuchdotheywantforthemanddoyouthinkthey’reworthit?”
“Yeah, I do otherwise I wouldn’t be up here.” Tyson named a price that bordered on being

ridiculouslycheap.“Goingtointroducemetoyourgirlfriendhere?Heardyouhadone.”

“Gina, this is my brother Tyson. Tyson, I’d like to introduce you to my fiancée Gina and her son

Fisher.”

“Yourwhat?Younevertoldmewhenyoucamebackhomethatyouweregettingmarried.LikeIhave

toheartherewasaladyherefromsomeoneelseintown.Thanksfornothing.”HeglaredatRory.“What
thehellchangedinthelastfewweeksthatIdon’tknowabout?”Rorycouldseethecogsworkinginhis
head.

“Backoff,brother.Don’tyoudaregolettinglooseyouruppityattitudeonme.Nobodysaidyouhadto

beinvolvedinmydecision-makingprocess.”

“Itakeitthenthatyou’vedonethesamefoolthingthatChancedid—signedupononeofthosedamned

dating sites for a wife, otherwise I would have known about this. You two will never learn, will you?
Andawomanwithakid,onlyafteronethingifyouaskme:money.”

RoryturnedandhandedFishertoGinabeforeturningbackanddeckinghisbrotherwithadecentright

hooktothejaw.Tysonlandedonhisbuttontheporch,shocktheexpressiononhisface.Helookedupand
scowledbeforewipinghishandacrosshismouth.Bloodpooledinthecornerofhislipsandhespatitout
andreachedforhishat.

“Takeyourdamnedattitudebackwhereyoucamefrom.Ifyoucan’tberespectful,staytheheckaway

fromus.”

Tysoncrawledtohisfeet,glaringatGina.“You’llregretthis,markmywords,brother.Justyouwait

and see. Soon as you buy yourself a nice little plot of land, she’ll dig her claws in and take you for
everythingyouhave.”

INA

SHOOK

INSIDE

andsteppedback,shieldingherson.Anotherboutofviolencewasn’twhatshewanted

tosee,thetypeofbehaviorshewantedherbabyaround.Itmadeherfeelqueasyanddoubttheposition
shewasin,ringonherfingerornot.SheheardtheintakeofRory’sbreath,andsodidTyson.

“You’rekiddingme,right?You’vegoneandboughtthelittleladyaplacealready,haven’tyou?”
They didn’t notice Callie walking up toward the house. “Making an ass of yourself again, Tyson?

You’llneverlearnwillyou?”Shestrodeuptohimandslappedhimontheback,nonetoogentle,making
him stumble and struggle to regain his already unsteady footing. “So, what’re you after this time, apart
frombeinganosylittleturd?”

“I’mnothereforgossip.IthoughtyoumightbeinterestedinacoupleofhorsesIwasofferedbefore

theygotothegluefactory.Ididn’texpecttowalkintoapunchintheface.”Hebangedhishatagainsthis
legandjammeditbackonhishead.

“Well,youshouldlearntomindyourmannersthen.Chanceisdownatthebarn;comeandtalktohim

aboutit.”CalliewinkedatGinaandhookedherarmthroughTyson’s,givinghimnooptionbuttogowith
her.Theywatchedasshedraggedhimdowntothebarn,grippinghisarmsohecouldn’tgetaway.

“Ican’tbelievethelittlepunkcouldbesodamnedrude.”Roryrubbedathisknuckles,frowningatthe

backofhisbrother.

“Don’tletitworryyou.NothingIwouldn’thaveheardbefore,I’msure.”Shesighed,thepleasureof

thedaygonewithonetensemoment.“Ithinkweshouldgivethecottageamisstoday,don’tyou?”Ineed
toregroupmythoughtsandcalmdownbeforeIsaysomethingImightregret.

Rory looked at her, concern in his eyes. “No, I don’t. Don’t worry about him; his mouth is always

runningoff.We’reusedtoitbutthat’sjustTyson,he’llcomearound.”

Shetriedtosmileandcouldn’tquitemakeithappen.“I’mtakingFisherinside.It’sgettingcoolout

here.” Her heart grew heavy as she walked over to the toy basket under the dining room window and
placedhersondownontheground.HeturnedandwailedlookingforRory.Ginasawhimstridingdown
tothebarn,nodoubttogivehisbrotheranotherlessoninmanners.

Tryingtodistractherson,shecroucheddownonthefloorbesidehimandstartedtakingoutsomeof

hisfavoritetoys.TheywereimmersedinagameoftrainswhenthedooropenedandCalliestrolledin.

“Hey,youokay?”ShewalkedoverandruffledthecurlsonFisher’shead.
“Yeah.”Doubtstillchippedatherbackandshecouldn’tmakeuphermindwhichdirectiontotake.
“Don’tlietome.Icanseefromthelookonyourfacehiswordshityouhard.”Calliedroppeddown

ontoherbuttonthefloorbesidethemandgrabbedalittleredcarfromthetoybox.“Youhavetostandup
to people like Tyson. It’s the only way he backs down, you know. I learned that pretty quick. He was
readytoshipmebacktoAustraliauntilIgavehimamouthfulofmyown.Settleddownafterthatandnow
Ineverlethimgetinthelastword.”

“That’sallwellandgoodforthoseofusthatdon’thaveanythingtobeashamedof.Unfortunatelyfor

me,I’mnotoneofthem,sowhathesayshitshomewhetherornotIlikeitandthatinturnreflectsonRory.
Notagoodideawhenhe’sthelocaldeputy.”

“Pfft.Asifhecaresanyway.”Shespunthewheelsofthelittlecarupthelegsofherjeansanddown

aroundthelittleboymakingalltheappropriatesounds.

“Icare.Icarethatmysonwillgrowupseeingthatkindofbehaviorasnormalorthatpeoplemight

seemeasagolddigger,someoneonlyinterestedinRorybecauseofwhathecangiveme.”

“Andareyou?”SheranthetruckupFisher’sarm.

Ginaliftedherchinandlookedatthewomanshethoughtwashernewfriend.“No.PerhapsinitiallyI

would have said yes but he was after something, too. Since I’ve been here something has changed
between us.” She shrugged her shoulders. “I don’t see him so much as a meal ticket now. It sounds
horriblebutthatwaswhatIimaginedhimaswhenwefirststartedtalking.”Shetuckedastraycurlbehind
herearandgaveaself-conscioussmile.“He’sspecial.Iknowthatnow.Icouldn’twantforanythingelse
inapartner,youknowwhatImean?”

“Yeah,it’sthoseWatsonbrothergenes.IwasthesamewhenImetChance.Preparedtodotheright

thingbecausewehadadealandhegotmeoutofatightspotbutoncethatcharmstartedtomeltdownmy
defenses,Iwasuselessagainsthim.”

Gina smiled, knowing Callie had it so right. “But you have it right though. They both wanted

somethingfromustoo,sonofoulasfarasI’mconcerned.”

“That’sexactlyhowIfeel.Andifanyonepointsthefingeratme,Icansay,hey,Roryplacedthead,

notme.It’slikeweweremeanttobetogether.I’llhavetogrowathickskin.Igetthattherewillalways
be someone who’ll think the worst about me.” She swallowed. “I really hope Tyson doesn’t try to talk
himoutofourmarriage.Iwouldn’tblamehimifhedid.”

Callielookedather,thewayhereyebrowswereraisedshowingjusthowmuchshebelievedGina.So

muchforthedaygettingbetterlikeshe’dplanned.NowRorywasprobablythinkingoverwhathisbrother
said.Couldhebehavingsecondthoughtsaboutmarryingherwhenshehadbeensittingherethinkingthe
samething?

Eventually,CallieofferedtogiveFisherhisbathwhileGinastartedondinner.Sheheardtheroarof

thetruckasTysonleftbutdidn’tlookup,preferringtoignorehim.DinnerwasalmostreadywhenRory
andChancecameinside.Sheglancedathermanandnoticedagrazeonhischeek.Theknowledgethathe
hadbeenhehadbeenfightingoverhermadehercringe.Chancegrinnedfromeartoear.

When Callie came down with the baby all snuggled up in his pajamas, she whistled at the mark.

“Gave as good as you got, I’m hoping.” She put Fisher in his high chair and reached for the plate his
motherhadpreparedforhim,lettingthelittleboyeathischoppedvegetableswithhisfingers.

“Yeah,hedidtoo.”ChancelaughedandslappedRoryontheback.“DamnedifTysondoesn’tgetit.

Thoughtbynowhe’dknowtokeephismouthshutandmindhisownbusiness.”

“It’sallmyfault.”Ginaplatedupthebeefstewandmashedpotatoes,poolingthegravyinthemiddle

ofthewhitefluffymound.

“No, it’s not and you need to learn to deal with it. Tyson has a chip on his shoulder a mile wide.

Alwayshas.”Rorytooktheplatesoutofherhandandplacedthemonthetablebeforewalkingbackand
resting his hands on her shoulders. She glanced up into his face. “He’s always been the same and over
someofthestupidestthingstoo.It’sthewayhisbrainiswired,Ireckon.Fromdayonethelittlepesthas
been a gossip and if there’s nothing there, he’ll make it up, blow everything out of proportion for god
knowswhatreason.”

“Thatstilldoesn’tmeanyouneedyournamedirtiedaroundtown.That’smyfault.”
Hedippedhisheadandkissedher,stoppingthebuildupofwordsthatshewasgettingreadytospurt

out.Histonguepushedbetweenherlipsandhishandsliddownthelengthofherbacktocupherbutt.As
hedeepenedthekiss,herbodytookoverandshewoundherarmsaroundhisneck,sinkingintothekiss,
herresponseonautopilot.Ginaforgothersurroundingsassheraisedherhipstopressintohis,feelingthe
lengthofhimthroughhisjeans.

Theneedrushingthoughherbodymadeherforgetwhereshewasandshedroppedherhandstoundo

thebuttonsonhisshirtbeforeslidingahandinoverhischest.Rorymoanedwhenherfingertipsgrazed
hishardenednipple.

Shecriedoutwhenhebrokethekissandgaspsofheraudienceremindedhershewasinthekitchen.

Shame raced over her cheeks and she wanted to crawl up the stairs and hide. Never before had she
reactedtoanyonethewayshewasreactingtoRory.Themanwasseriouslyhotanditturnedheronjust
thinkingofhimundressinginfrontofher.Shecouldn’thavebackedoutofthismarriageifshe’dtried.

“Wow.” Callie grabbed the two other plates and put them on the table. “I think an early night is in

orderforyouandme,husbandofmine,afterthatlittletasteofromance.Theseguysknowhowtoheatup
aroom.”

“I’m sorry. Really sorry.” Gina wiped her hands over her face and looked up into Rory’s face. He

grinnedfromeartoear.

“Thereisnowayyouaregettingaway,notwhenyoudothistome.”Hewipedhisthumboverher

bottomlip,sendingsmalljoltsofelectricitytohergirlybits,pulsingwithneed.“Mybrothercangoand
beat his head against a brick wall for all I care. You are the one I’m going to marry and that’s final,
okay?”

“Sayyessowecanhavedinnerandgetsomealonetime,fortheloveofallthingsbeautiful.”Callie

laughedandGinacouldseethelightinhereyesasshelookedatherownhusband.

“Yes.”

ChapterTen

ORY

WALKED

INA

up the stairs. Chance and Callie had long since gone to bed, as had Fisher, while

they’dstayeddownstairssnuggleduponthecouchtalkingandsmoochinginfrontofthefire.Thelightof
the flames cast the house in a warm haze. Rory placed the guard in front of the fireplace and took her
hand, leading her up the stairs to her room. The door was ajar and the only light upstairs came from
almost-shutbathroomdoor,leavingasoftglowoverherroom.

Shepausedatthedoor.“Rory,didyou,Imeanwouldyou—”
Hesilencedherwithakiss,stealingthewordsbeforeshecouldutterthem.Heneededhermorenow

thanhecouldbelieve.He’dwatchedeverymoveofherlipswhenshespokeoverdinner.Themovement
as she swallowed her food had left him almost panting with need. Seeing her put her son to sleep had
wokeninhimanotherkindofneedthathadbeennigglingjustunderthesurfacefordays.Theneedtohave
acompletefamily.TherewasnowayhewaslettinghergonomatterwhatkindoftroubleTysoncaused.

Herskinhadshoneinthefirelightastheylaysnuggleduponthecouchinfrontoftheflamestalking

overtheirfuturewithsmallsnippetsofGina’spastthrowninashegottoknowher.She’dstruggledand
thatalonemadehimwanttoprotecthersosheneverneededforanythingagain.

Whilehe’dmanagedtopushawaythefinalthreadsofguilt,asinglestrandstillremained.Determined

to take this woman to bed tonight, he mentally severed it, leaving the way clear for a night of sensual
lovemaking. In his mind, the best way he could honor his wife and unborn baby’s memory was to take
careofthiswomanandherchildwhentheyneededitmost.

NowitwastimeforbedandRoryhadnointentionofsleepingalone.Hewalkedherintotheroom,

his lips still locked onto hers. With his foot, he pushed the door shut and turned Gina back against it,
pressingintoherbody.

She broke the kiss, her breathing coming in ragged pants. “I need you, Rory. I have to tell you, I

haven’tbeenwithanyonesinceIgotpregnantandI’mnotonanybirthcontrol.”Shelickedherlipandhe
wantedtotakeitbetweenhisteeth.

“Did you mean what you said about bearing my children?” He traced his lips down her cheek and

underthesoftskinofherchin.

Sheswallowedbeforeanswering.“Yes.”
“I’mreadytostartpracticinganytimeyouare.Ifwegetluckystraightaway,sobeit.”Hetracedthe

curveofherchinwithhistongue,thetasteofherskindrivinghimforward.Hisfingersfumbledwiththe
buttonsonherblouseandGinapushedhishandsawaytakingoverthejobherself.Hecontinuedtotaste
theskinonherthroat,underherear,andinthehollowofhershoulder.

When she slid the garment down, he cupped her breasts and sighed. “You are so beautiful.” Gina

undidtheclasponherbraanddroppedittothefloor.

Roryrubbedhisfingertipsoverhernipples,thrilledwhentheyhardenedunderhistouch.Hedipped

hisheadandtookoneintohismouth,drawingitinandrollinghistongueoverthesmall,hardnubofflesh.
Whenhepulledback,herfleshmadeapoppingsoundasitsprangfromhislips.

Hiscockstrainedagainstthezipperofhisjeansandheknewhewouldn’tlastlong.“Let’sgettobed

beforeIembarrassmyselfhere.”Heheldherhandandtogethertheywalkedovertothebed.

Ginaundidthebuttononherskirtandsteppedoutofit,thenpulleddownherpantiesandletthemdrop

to the floor. She glanced at Rory before stepping over to the bed and pulling back the blanket. She sat
downandreachedforhim,undoingthebuttononhisjeans.

Whilehestrippedoffhisshirt,shepushedhisjeansdownandsatlookingathiserectiontentinghis

boxershorts.Herhungrygazehadhisbloodracingthroughhisveinsandhepushedherontothepillow,
lyingdownbesideher.Rorytracedhisfingersupherhip,acrossherstomach,anduptowardherbreasts.
Smallgoosebumpsappearedonherstomachashisfingersinchedforward.

“Areyoucold?”
Herbreathcameinsmallpantsandhervoicesoundedstrained.“No.”
“Tellmewhatyouwant,Gina.HowcanIpleaseyou?”
“I don’t want to wait any longer. I need you inside me now, Rory.” She reached for him, her hand

travellingdownhisstomachandundertheelasticofhisshorts.

Heshuckedthemoffandrolledoverbetweenherlegs.“Noforeplay?”
“Notthistime.Iwon’tlast.”Shereachedforhimandguidedhiscocktothewarmheatbetweenher

thighs.Heheldhisbreathashesunkintoherslickfolds,thepleasurealmosttoomuchtobear.Whenhe
was buried balls deep, Rory rested his forehead on hers and closed his eyes, trying desperately to
regulatehisbreathing.He’dexpectedatwingeofguiltwhenhetookhertobedforthefirsttimeandit
wasthere,tappinghimontheshoulder.Heblockeditout,thinkingofwhathewantedforthefutureand
onlysawGinaandFisher.

Happy that he wasn’t going to embarrass himself, he nibbled on her throat, listening to her moan

beneathhim.Hisbloodroaredinhisears,thesounddeafeningandthrillingatthesametime.Hisbody
jerked of its own accord. If he moved anymore he knew he’d lose it and, even though it was almost
impossible,hewantedthistolastmorethanfiveseconds.

“It’sokayyouknow.IunderstandhowyoufeelbecauseIthinkI’maboutto…”
Her voice changed to a groan and her legs wrapped around his as her vaginal muscles clamped

aroundhiscock.Ginaarchedherbody,drawinghimindeeperandhethrustasfastashecould,unableto
resist anymore. Rory’s toes curled and his legs spasmed as he cried out in pleasure. A flash of lights
ringedhisperipheralvisionandhissenseswentontohyperalert.

Hecouldn’tmoveashisorgasmslowed.
“Wow.”Ginaranherhandsoverhisback.
“Yeah,wowisright.”Roryliftedhisheadandlookedintohereyes.Thelittlegoldenflecksblazed

withafirethathadn’tbeentherewhenshe’darrivedattheranch.“Yousureyou’reokay?”

“I’mmorethanokay.Ican’tbelievehowgoodthatwas,butthatdoesn’tmeanIwanttogotosleep

nowthough.”Shewiggledherhipsandhiscockdecidedonarepeatperformance.Thistimeheintended
tomakeitlastlongerandhavehisfillofthiswomanbeforesuccumbingtosleep.

Asheclosedhiseyes,threadsofsilkwaftedinthedarknessastheyweredraggeddeeper.

INA

OPENED

HER

eyes and glanced at the man sleeping beside her. His long lashes lay over his high

cheekboneslikeasoftblanketofgossamerthatmostwomenwouldkillfor.Darkstubbleprickledover
hischeeksandjaw,sweepingoverhistoplip.Thegentlegrazeofhisfiveo’clockshadowhadleftsmall
patches of burn on her sensitive skin, especially between her thighs. She blushed thinking about it and
hopedformoreofthesametonight.

“Stopthinkingandcuddleme.”Heopenedhiseyesslowlyandgazedather,makingherbodytingle

withneed.

Ginasnuggledintohischest,herfingerstoyingwiththetrailofhairthatleddowntosensualdelights

shewassureshe’dnevergetenoughof.

“IfIwereyou,I’deitherstopthatormakeitquickbecauseIhearnoisesfromthelittleguy.”
Sheliftedherheadandlookedoveratthecotbesidethebed.Fishermumbledunmistakablebabytalk

andtossedhislittlebodyaround.HisbottomwasupintheairandsoonGinacouldhearsuckingnoises.
“He’s sucking his thumb. That should give us at least ten minutes.” She lifted the blankets and scooted
downRory’sbody,herlipseagerforhisbody.

When they climbed out of the shower, Fisher bounced up and down in his bed, hands clutching the

railing.HegrinnedwhenRory,atowelslunglowoverhiships,bentoverandpickedhimup.“Hey,little
dude.Howcomeyou’resohappythismorning?”

“Hereallyseemstolikeyousomuch.”Ginasmiledathertwofavoritemenintheworld.
“Backatyou,buddy.Shallwegoandleaveyourmamatogetdressedandmeetherdownstairs?What

doyousay?”

FisherclappedhishandsandRorywinkedatheroverhisshoulder.“I’llgetdressedinmyroom.See

youdowninthekitchen.”Heshutthedoorbehindthemandshedroppedthetowelontheendofthebed.
Ginalookeddownatthebodystillhummingfromthebestsexshe’dhadever.Afterarockystart,shewas
findingherfeetwithRoryandsheprayedtheywouldbeabletomakethisallwork.

Her little man was sitting in his high chair playing with a piece of toast when she walked into the

kitchen. Callie and Chance were still upstairs, leaving her time to get her act together with breakfast
beforetheysurfaced.

ShewalkedoverandkissedRory.“Thanksfortakinghim.”
Hehookedhisarmaroundherwaistandpulledherdownontohislap,nibblingatherear.“Anytime,

especiallyifyourewardmelikeyoudidlastnight,andthismorning,and—”

“Hey,getaroomyoutwo.”Calliebouncedinwithagrinonherfaceandaquickhugforthebaby.

“Oh,that’sright,youalreadydidthatlastnight.”

GinablushedandRoryslappedheronthebuttasshetriedtogetaway.
“Don’tmindher.Shecan’tsayanythingconsideringshewasprobablydoingthesamething.”Chance

winkedatGinaandstrolledintothekitchen.“I’mhungry.What’sonthemenuthismorning?”

“Well,Iwasthinkingofbaconandeggswithfriedpotatoes.Thatokay?”
“Sounds great. Now I’m really starving.” He chucked Fisher under the chin and took a seat at the

table.

Calliefilledthecoffeepotandputitontoheatup.“So,whatarewegoingtodoaboutthosehorses

Tysontalkedaboutyesterday?Dowereallyneedthem?”

“I’lltakethemifyoudon’twantthem.”RorylookedathisbrotherbeforeglancingoveratGina.“I

thinkI’dlikethem,especiallysinceweplantogetafewheadofcattle.Makeiteasiertoroundthemup.”

Ginanoddedherhead.“Iknownothingabouthorsesatall.That’syourdepartment.I’lltakecareof

thegardenandthechickens.They’reaboutallIcanmanage,Ithink.”

“Done.”ChanceagreedthatRorywouldcallinonTysonandpayforthehorsesandseeiftheycould

staywithhimuntilthenewfencinghadbeendone.

“Hangon.Youknockedhimdownyesterdayandnowyou’regoingtoaskhimtokeepsomehorseson

hispropertyforyou?”Ginalookedathim,confusedatthewaytheyworked.

“Yeah.Whynot?”Roryfrownedather,obviouslynotunderstandingwhatherproblemwas.
“Becauseifthatwasmeyoupunched,Iwouldn’ttalktoyouforweeks,that’swhy.”Shecrackedeggs

intoahotskillet.

“Itoldyou,that’sjustthewayitiswithTyson—thereasonyoushouldneverletanythinghesaysgetto

you.Heforgetsaboutitassoonashesaysit.”HepickedupthecrustthatFisherthrewonthefloorand
walkedovertoputitinthebin,ignoringthebeseechinglookinSherbet’seyes.“Afterworktoday,we’re
goingovertothecottageandyou’regoingtotellmewhatyouwantsothecontractorscangetstarted.I
knowyou’rekeentomovebackinbutweneedtheworkdonefirstotherwiseit’llbeanightmare.Also,
I’dliketogetmarriedatourownplaceifthat’satallpossible.”

“Ah,RoryWatson,youarearomantic.Whowouldhaveguessed?”Calliegrinned,pretendingtowipe

awayatear.

He gave her a pitiful look which made her burst into laughter. Gina shook her head. They were all

crazyandshe’dfalleninlovewiththemall.

“Fine then, if that’s the only way to keep the peace, I’ll do it. Should I meet you there or will you

comebackforus?”

“Ifyoumeetmethere,youcanputteraroundasIknowyou’llwanttoanywayandgetthefeelforwhat

youwant,sowhenIarriveyou’llbeontopofitall.Howdoesthatsound?”Heslippedhisarmaround
herwaistandnibbledatherneck.

“Great,butifyouwanttoeatbeforeyouleave,mightIsuggestyougoandsitdown.It’skindofhard

to concentrate like this.” She shivered and her nipples perked up under her bra. Rory laughed, a deep
throatysoundthatwentstraighttohercore.Tonightshewouldmakehimpayforteasingher.

ChapterEleven

ORY

TOOK

NOTE

oftheblackcarsittingoppositehisoffice.Themaninthefrontseatworedarkglasses

andasuitlikesomeoneoutofabadspymovie,anewspaperhelduptoshieldhisface.Ifhewastryingto
lookincognito,hewasdoingareallybadjobofit.Roryshookhisheadandhurriedtohistruck.Hewas
meetingGinaatthecottagetogooverherideasforthehometheyweregoingtorenovatetogether.He’d
alreadydecidedtoaddonanextrafewroomsattheveryleast.Hewantedafamilyroom,andabigger
bedroomforFisher,andatleastonemoreforthenextchildhehopedtheywouldhavetogether.

Gina’scarwasalreadyparkedoutinfrontofthecottageandheglancedaroundsearchingforher.The

frontdoorstoodopensoRorystartedtherefirst.Hewalkedintothelounge,seeingitdifferentlythanhe
didlasttimehewashere.NowhesawitwithFisherplayingonthefloorinfrontofthefireplace,histoys
scatteredovertherugwhilehesatbackonthecouchwithGinainhisarms.Ginahadpainteditarich
cream,givingitanewleaseoflife.Oncetheyhadfurniturein,itwouldlookjustashe’dimagined.

“What’s got that dreamy look in your eye, cowboy?” Her seductive voice made his pulse race. She

leanedonthedoorframestaringathimfromunderherlashes,asmallsmileonherlips.

Hesmiled.“Iwantitallandit’sonlynowI’vecometorealizeIcanhavethatwithyouandFisher.

AndtothinkIwashappytosettleforacompanion.I’mmoregratefulthanyoucaneverimagine.”

“Ditto.IneverthoughtwhenIansweredthatadthatIwouldbesolucky.IhopedandIprayedfora

decentmantospendtherestofmylifewith.Ididn’texpectwhatIgotlastnight.”

“Whatwaswrongwiththismorning?”Hislipstwitchedandhetriedtokeepastraightfacebutgave

up.Hisheartflowedoverwithhappinessforthefirsttimeinyears.

“Nothingunlessyoucounthavingtogetoutofbed.”Shewalkedoverandslidherarmsaroundhis

waist,restingherheadagainsthischest.Roryputhisarmsaroundherandheldhertight.

“Guesswehavetonighttomakeupforthat.”
“Yeahwedo.”
“Hey,where’sFisher?”Hesuddenlyrememberedhislittlesidekick.
“Whoa,stoprightthere.He’shangingoutwithAuntyCallie.Shewasdesperatetohavehimtoherself

sowhoamItodenyherthesimplepleasureofaneighteen-month-old?”

He breathed easy. “Okay. For a minute there I started to panic. Right, since we have the place to

ourselvesforalittlebit,let’sgetdowntoit.”

Ginapulledaway,ashockedlookonherface.“Iamnothavingsexwithyouinthishouseuntilit’s

waycleanerthanitisnow,doyouhearme?”

Roryburstoutlaughing.He’dbeenabouttosuggestitandwasgladhedidn’t.“Imeantworkingout

what we want in this place. And you’ve done so much work to the house already. I can’t believe how
goodthisroomlooks.”Heslidhisarmaroundherwaistagainandpulledheroutofthekitchen.“Iwantto
add a few rooms, one for Fisher and hopefully a brother or sister, and a decent-size open-plan
family/summerroom.Ifyouwantthekitchenmadebigger,nowwouldbethetimetospeakup.”Thepoky
roomhadeverythingitneededalthoughitlackedthespaceandopen-planstylethatChance’shousehad.
HelikedthatkindofsettingandhopedGinadidtoo.

“Ifyou’resureyoudon’tmind,I’dlikesomethingbiggerwithroomtomove.I’vealwayswanteda

kitchenlikeChanceandCallie’s.Onewherethefamilycanallbetogetherevenwhenthey’renotactually

eating.”

“ExactlywhatIwasthinkingtoo.Now,howaboutthebathroom?Doyouwanttochangethat?”They

walkedinarminarmandlookedattheoldfittings,bothchewingoverhowitwouldlookupdated.

“Iwouldn’tmindifweupdatedit,thesizeisprettygood,don’tyouthink?”Shelookedupathim,a

smallfrownonherforehead.

Roryraisedhishandandwipedatthelinesinherskin.“Whataretheyfor?”
“Idon’twanttospendallofyourmoney.Plus,Idon’twanttogiveyourbrotheroranyoneelsecause

forthosecommentsyesterday.”

“Don’tworryabouthim,I’vealreadytoldyouthatandasformoney,you’llneverhavetoworryabout

it.Wehavemorethanenoughtoliveon.”

HAT

THOUGHT

DIDN

’

makeherfeelasgoodasshethoughtitwould.EventhougheveryonesaidTysonwas

just like that and she really shouldn’t take it personally, it was hard. She came into this relationship
withoutadimetohernameanditrankled.IfonlyRorywouldlethertakeonapart-timejobshewouldbe
able to relax about it but that idea had been squashed. He wanted a stay-at-home wife and she could
hardlydenyhimthat.

“Imeanit,Gina.Don’tlethimgetunderyourskin.Ignorehim.Andifyoucan’t,getmeorCallieto

sorthimout.I’mprettysuresheenjoysgettingbackathim.Whenshearrived,hejustaboutblewagasket,
gaveherahardtime.AwomantoruntheranchandfromAustraliatoboot;itwasalmosttoomuchfor
him to take.” Rory laughed and hugged her. “Come on, let’s see what else we can do.” He walked her
backtowheretheoldbedstoodwithoutamattress.

“Inhere.”Hewiggledhiseyebrowsather.“Iwasthinkingofextendingandaddingadressingroom

andbathroomforus.Whatdoyouthink?”

“Tellmesomething;ifyouwantedabiggerhouse,howcomeyouboughtthisplace?Itdoesn’tmake

sensetome.”

He grinned and grabbed her hand, tugging her through the house and out the back door. Rory didn’t

stopuntiltheywereoutnearthebarn.Hestoodherinfrontofhimandpointedattheriverthatflowed
throughthebackofthecottage.“Seethat?”

“Yeah.”Shefollowedtheangleofhisfinger.
“Seethewaythosepaddocksacrosstherivercurveupandgoacrosstherisetothemountains?”
Ginanoddedherhead.
“ThatpaddockisthebeginningofChance’sranch.Ifwewantto,wecanbuildabridgeandgettohis

placethatway.AndovertheriseisthestartofTyson’splace.IneverthoughtI’dbeabletobuyaplace
thisclosetohome,butChanceheardaboutitgoingonthemarketbeforeitofficiallydid,soIgotinand
grabbedit.Andsincetheplacewassocheap,IcanaffordtoknockthehousedownifIwantto.ButIlove
thecharacter.Ithasgoodbones,sothecontractortellsmeanyway,soIfigureditwouldbebettertojust
renovateandaddonwhat’smissing.”

“Fairenoughthen.”Shespunaroundandlinkedherhandsbehindhisneckpullinghismouthdownto

hers.“Canwegetthisoveranddonewithplease?IreallythinkIneedanearlynight.I’mfeelingsovery
tired.”

Roryshookhisheadandlaughed.“You,woman,areturningintoasexfiend.”
Shepouted.
“And no, I’m not complaining. Let’s go. We can discuss the kitchen layout when we get home. I’ll

sketchwhileIwatchyoucookdinner.”Hehelpedherintothecarandshutthedoor.“I’llberightbehind
yousodon’tgobreakinganylaws,ma’am,orI’mgoingtohavetotakeyouin.”

Shesmiled,likingthisgamealittletoomuch.“Yes,DeputySheriff.”Ginaturnedthekeyanddrove

off,watchingintherearviewmirrorforRorytocatchupwithherwhilethinkingofnovelwaystotorture
himtonight.

ChapterTwelve

ORY

TOOK

THE

summonsthatspewedoutfromtheprinterinthemainofficeofthesheriff’sofficeand

cast his gaze over them. This couldn’t be right. The Bellinghams, one of the richest families in San
Francisco,takingGinatocourtforcustodyofhersonFisher.NothisGina,itwasn’tpossible.Therehad
tobesomemistake.Hewalkedintohisofficeandshutthedoor.Hehadtobereadingthiswrong.

Rorysatdownandstartedatthebeginning.ThepapersstatedthatRichardBellinghamIIIandhiswife

Arabella Bellingham were taking Gina Taylor to court for the sole custody of their grandson Fisher
Taylor.ThepaperswerefiledintheSanFranciscoMunicipalCourthouseonthepreviousMonday.

A mix of emotions churned in his gut. Horror at the thought of losing the little boy he had become

attachedtosoquickly.FearthatGinawouldloseherchild.Suspicionthathehadbeenusedasacoverfor
whateverwentthroughhishead—ifinfactshewasaknowingaccomplicetothis.Angeratbeingduped,
used,anddraggedintoafightwiththesepeople.

Hepickedupthephoneanddialed.WhenChanceanswered,hesworehimtosecrecyandtoldhim

brieflywhathadhappened.

“You need to get onto Layla Cox. Sharpest mouth around and she has a mind like a steel trap. She

owesmeafewfavorstoo.”HegaveRorythephonenumberbeforehangingup.

Withoutcaringwhatthefavorswere,hedialedthenumberandwaitedtobeputthrough.
“Layla speaking.” Her voice was smoky and seductive over the phone, and he had a difficult time

imagininghertobethehard-assedlawyerheneeded.

“Layla, this is Deputy Sheriff Watson from Marietta, Montana, calling. My brother Chance said you

mightbeabletohelpme.”

“Well,well,”hervoicesoftenedandhecouldalmostseethesmileonherface.“Howisthatcowboy?

Imisshimbeingaroundtohelpmeout.”

“Uh,he’sfine.Happyworkingonhisranch.Listen,thereasonI’mcallingisaboutacaseIcouldbe

involvedin.CanIrunitpastyou?”

“Sure.”ShelistenedasRorytoldhereverythingheknew.
“Right,firstthingsfirst.LetmegetacopyofthefileandgooveritsoIknowexactlywhatandwhy

they’redoingthisandwhatinformationtheymighthaveonyourlady.GivemeadayorsoandI’llcall
youback.”

“Thanks,Iappreciateit.”
“You’reinabitofastickysituationhere,Rory.Legallyyoustillhavetoissuethatsummonsagainst

her,sorryIcan’thelpyououtofthatone.”

Rory hung up the phone and looked at the papers sitting on his desk wondering what the hell he’d

gottenhimselfinto.Truthbetold,heknewverylittleabouthisfiancéeandhefigurednowthatprobably
wasn’tagoodthing.Perhapsheshouldhavelistenedtohisheadalittlemoreinsteadofleadingwithhis
heart.Hismindwarredwithhisgut,knowinghehadajobtodo.Ajobherespectedandloved,buthe
wanted to protect Gina and Fisher. Could he do both and keep the life he’d been building for them all
intact?

Fishersquealedwhenhewalkedintothekitchenthatevening.Ginalookedupfromthecookbookshe

was poring over and smiled—a smile that spoke of promises to come. Rory gripped the papers in his

handandleaneddowntopatthechildonthehead.HeignoredthecriesofprotestfromFisherwhenhe
didn’tgetpickedup.Insteadheconcentratedonthewomanstandingatthecounterwatchinghim.

Warinesshadcreptintohereyes.“Rory,you’rescaringme.What’swrong?”
Heliftedhishandandplacedthepapersonthecounterbetweenthem.“Thiscamethroughtoday.”He

sawtheconfusedlookinhereyesandwaitedasshereachedoutandpickedupthesummons.

READ

THE

namesonthepapersandglancedatRorybeforereadingthemagain.“Idon’tunderstand.”

“Fisher’sgrandparentsaresuingyouforfullcustodyoftheirgrandson.”
“Hedoesn’thaveanygrandparents.”Ginadroppedthepapersonthecounterandcrossedtopickup

her crying son. “We have no one. I already told you that.” Please don’t do this to me. I’ve only just
startedtorelaxherewithyou.

“Accordingtothisyoudo,oratleasthedoes.Whydidn’tyoutellmethis?”Hiseyeshadgonecold

andhard,andshebackedaway,suddenlywaryofthemanshethoughtsheloved.Thetensioninherbody
crossedovertothebabyandhehowledlouder.

Calliecamerunninginfromthelounge.“Whattheheck’sgoingon?”ShereachedforFisherandtook

himfromGina,soothinghiscries.Chancewalkedinandstoodbesideher.

“This.”Rorypointedtothepapers.
Callieglancedbetweenthetwoofthemandsteppedclosertoreadwhatwasprintedonthesummons.

“Oh,shit.”

“DidyougetholdofLayla?”Chanceplacedahandonhiswife’sshoulderandsheraisedquerying

eyes to him. “Rory called me for advice. She’s an old friend and the best person to help out in this
situation.”

“Yes. She’s looking into it. It would seem genuine at this stage. Apparently, these people are filthy

richandoneofthemostprominentfamiliesinSanFrancisco.”HelookedbackatGina.“Howcouldyou
notknowaboutthem?”

Herheadbuzzedandsheplacedahandonherstomach,hopingtosettlethesickchurninginhergut.“I

didn’tknow.Adensaidhehadnofamily.Ibelievedhim,Ihadnoreasonnotto.”

“Awhoney,that’sjustterrible.”CallieclosedthedistancebetweenthemandputanarmaroundGina.

“To find out you might have family this way is kinda tough.” She looked up at Rory and made gestures
withherhead.

Ginaswallowed,ranhertonguearoundhermouthinadesperateattempttofindtherightwords.“It’s

okay,Icanunderstandhisshock.Iwouldn’tbelievemeeitherifsomeonethrewthisatme.”Shetriedto
smileanditdidn’tcomeoffbecauseherlipswobbled.Shedugherteethintothem,turnedawayfromthe
sympathy.

“Whatcanwedotohelp?”Chancetookherhandinhisandsqueezedit.“Youonlyhavetoask,you

know.”

Theirkindnesswouldbeherundoing.“I’llleave.Ihaveto.Ican’tletyougetinvolvedinthis.It’smy

problem,notyours.”

“Whywouldyouwanttodothat?YouandRoryaregettingmarried.Thisisyourhomenow.”Callie

lookedatthepairofthem.“Idon’tbelieveyouwouldlethergonow,Rory.Youneedtosortthisoutand
fast.”

“No,itdoesn’tmatternow.Thisisn’thisproblem,it’smine.Justsoyouknow,thisisasmuchofa

shocktomeasitistoyou.”Shesniffedandwipedhereyeswiththebackofherhand.“Isweartoyouall,

ifI’dknownAdenhadafamily,Iwouldhavegonetothemwhenhedied.Iwouldn’thaveencroachedon
yourgoodwill.I’mnotlikethat.”

Roryshookhishead.“Look,I’msorry.Idon’tknowwhattothinkaboutthis.Iwasasshockedasyou

are.”HesighedandthenfocusedonGinabutkepthisdistance.“TellusmoreaboutAden.Whatmakes
youthinkhehadnofamily?”

Sonowyouask,afteryouaccuseme.Waytomakemebelieveyouloveme,Rory.“Becausehetold

me he didn’t. And he had no money either or he wouldn’t have stolen from me to feed his drug habit.
Wouldhe?”Shefeltconflictedandlookedtohimforhelp.

“Iwonderifhecouldhavebeenestrangedfromhisfamily.Didn’tyouputtwoandtwotogetherwhen

youfoundouthisname?”Calliestaredatherhopefully.

“HissurnamewasWoods.AdenWoods.Itoldthepolicethatwhentheycametointerviewme.Ieven

showedthemhisdriver’slicense.”

“Either they have the wrong person or he lived under an assumed name for whatever reason. We’ll

havetowaitforLaylatogetbacktousandfigureoutwhatthehell’sgoingon.”Chancelookedbetween
thetwoofthem.“Don’tgomakingrashdecisionsnow,eitherofyou.Findoutwhatthestoryisandthen
takeitfromthere.Nogoodwillcomeofyoutwobattlingeachotheroverthis.”

“Itdoesn’tseemfairtodothistoanyofyou.IfIwasn’there,youwouldn’tbeinvolvedinthismess.”
“You’re not leaving. I won’t let you.” Rory took Fisher from Callie and held him close, easing the

littleboy’stears.“I’msosorry,Gina.Ididn’tknowwhattothinkwhenthiscamethrough.Ireactedbadly
andI’msorry.Ishouldhavebelievedyou.”

“It’sstillnotyourproblem.”Hewasonlybeingniceandshecouldn’tbearthethoughtofhimthinking

she’ddeceivedhim.“I’llfiguresomethingout,somehow.”

“No.Iwon’tletgoyou,notnowI’vefoundyou.”Hepleadedwithher.“Wecandothistogether,don’t

yousee?IhaveChance’slawyerontoitalreadytoseewhatshecanfindout.We’llfixthis.Ipromise.”

Ginahadn’tbeenreadyforhimtoofferhissupportafterseeingthelookinhiseyeswhenhewalkedin

thedoor.Hisyo-yomoodannoyedher,playedhavocwithherownemotions.Shecouldn’thelpbutreact,
hermoodsnippy.“Don’tyouthinkthatifIknewFisherhadgrandparentsIwouldhaveletthemmeethim?
IfAdenhadtoldmeaboutthem,ImighthavegonetothemforhelpwhenIcouldn’tdoanymoreforhim.I
didn’tknow,IswearIdidn’tknow.”Shewipedhereyesbutcouldn’tstopthetearsstreakingdownher
cheeks.“IfI’dknown,Adenwouldn’thavebeencrematedbythestateandhisashesleftunclaimed.He
wouldhavebeenburiedwithdignity.”

“Whatabloodymess.IhopeLaylacansortthisoutbecausedamnedifIwantmyfuturesister-in-law

and nephew dragged through the courts for the public to make a meal out of.” Chance gave her a
sympatheticglance.“Reckonnowmightbeagoodtimetoopenabottleofwineandheatupapizzafor
dinner.”

“Icandothat.”Calliehigh-fivedhimandstrodeovertothefreezer,huntingtheshelvesuntilshefound

whatshewaslookingfor.“Bingo.”Shetookthepizzafromtheboxanddugoutatrayfromthecupboard
beforesheplaceditintheoven.Chancefoundabottleofwineandglasses,placingthemonthetablewith
papernapkinsreadyforasimpledinner.

RoryopenedhisarmstoGinaandwaitedforherreaction.Shecouldbepigheadedandignorehimor

takewhathewasofferingknowingthatshewouldhaveactedthesameinhissituation.Ithadbeenashock
toallofthem.Ginasteppedintohisembrace,snuggledbetweenhersonandthemanwhohadpromisedto
loveher.Herheartthuddedinturmoil.Partlyfortheparentsofherdeadboyfriendandpartlyforthegrief
shewasgoingtocausethemnow,becausetherewasnowayshewaslettingthemtakeherchildfromher.

Thatnightwhentheywenttobed,Roryheldherclosebutdidn’tinitiatesex.Shewonderedifthere

wasstillapartofhimthatdoubtedherstoryandithurtknowingshewouldprobablythinkthesameifthe
tide was turned. After getting him to propose, this might be the incident that made him demand the ring
back.

ChapterThirteen

MORNING

whenhegottotheoffice,RorypowereduphiscomputerandranasearchonGina

andAden.NothingcameuponGinaandhebreathedaguiltysighofrelief.Hehitthesearchfor“Aden
Woods”andgotthereportonhisdeathandsubsequentdeathcertificatewhichverifiedGina’saccountof
whathappened.Withnothingelsetogoon,hehadtowaitforaphonecallfromthelawyer.Luckilyshe
rangneartheendoftheday,puttinghimoutofhismisery.

“Okay, here’s the deal from what I could garner from the paperwork.” Layla’s voice took on a

professionaltoneasshesummarizedthecase.“AdenRichardWoodsBellinghamwastheonlychildof
RichardandArabellaBellingham,heirtoamassivefortunewhichincludesrealestate,businessinterests
here and overseas, seats on numerous boards, etcetera, etcetera. They are claiming full custody of his
child,nowtheironlyheir,sightingGinaTaylorasanunfitparent.Forprooftheyareholdingdocuments
thatgobacktoherearlychildhood.Herfatherwasadrugaddictandadrunk,inandoutofcourt,finally
dyingwhenshewasseventeenleavingheralone.Thecourtsdecidedshewasabletolookafterherself
anddidn’trequirehertogointofostercare.”

ShepausedandRoryheardpapersbeingshuffled.“Apparentlyshedroppedoutofschoolandwentto

workasawaitresswhichiswhereshemayhavemetAden,thegoldenchild.Hewasflexinghiswings
andgotinwithabadcrowd,sotheyclaim.Anyway,that’swherehisparentslostsightofhim.It’staken
themthislongtotrackhimdownandwell,weknowwhattheyfound.”

TherewassilenceforamomentandthenRoryheardtheclickofhertongue.“Basicallywhatthey’re

tryingtosayisthatGinawasabadinfluence,andgothimhookedondrugswiththeintentionofgetting
herclawsintothefamilymoney.Asadrugaddict,theysaysheisincapableofraisingtheirgrandsonthe
way he should be raised and therefore should not retain custody.” She let out a sigh. “I’m telling you,
these guys are ready to play hardball and they have the money to back themselves up. I hope your
girlfriendisworthitbecauseyou’reallgoingtogetdraggedthroughthemudifthisgetstocourt.”

Rorypinchedtheskinbetweenhiseyesandgrippedthephone.“Believeme,Layla,wearegoingto

fightthis.Idon’tcarehowmuchmoneythesepeoplehave,thereisnowaythey’retakingthatchild.AndI
doubthismotherisadruguser,either.”

“Wellnow,ifwecanprovethat,thenwehaveastartingpoint.Iwantyoutobepreparedforthisto

getdirty’causeitwill,Icanguaranteeyouofthatunlesswecomeupwithsomethingthatwillhaltthemin
theirtracks.Thepressisgoingtohaveafielddaywiththisone.”

Heleanedbackinhischair.“Haveatit,Isay.TheyhavenogroundstotakeFisherawayfromus.”
“Us?Doesthatmeanyouareinasomewhatpermanentrelationshipwithher?”Hopesoundedacross

thephone.

“Yes,wegotengagedthisweek.”Hetappedhisshort-cutnailsontheedgeofhisdesk,wonderingif

he’deverseehisweddingdaynowthishadcometosurface.

“Well,nowthatIcanworkwith.Whendidyoulovebirdsmeet?”
Acoldspikeofdreadfollowedthosewords.“Dowehavetogetintothat?Isn’titenoughthatwe’re

livingtogetherandengaged?”

“No.They’lldigaroundandfindoutsoyoumayaswelltellmethetruthnow.Listen,tellyouwhat.

I’mgoingtocatchanafternoonflightdownthere.Getthisallsortedoutinperson.It’stheleastIcando

for Chance anyway.” She paused as though thinking. “I can meet you both and we can work out where
we’regoingfromhere.”

“Areyousure?”
“Definitely.Icoulduseadayortwointhecountryanyway.Thisdamnedcityisgettingsobusy,some

daysIjustwanttowalkaway,butIstilllovethefighttoomuch.Seeyoulateron.I’llcallyouwhenIget
totheairportbeforeIboardmyplane.”

Roryputthephonedownandlookedaimlesslyoutthewindow.HowwoulditgodownwhenLayla

foundoutthattheirswasaninternethookupthatturnedintoanarrangedmarriageofconvenience?Itmight
not come across too well as a solid relationship where a child could grow and be happy compared to
whathisrichgrandparentscouldoffer.Lastnightthey’dallmanagedtoconvinceGinathatthiswouldall
workout.AfterlisteningtoLaylaandwhatshe’dfoundout,hewasn’tsosureanymore,whichonlyadded
tohispersonaldoubtscreepingbackin.

Dealingwithpettycomplaintsandtrafficviolationsdidn’thelphisdaygoanyfaster,sowhenhegot

thecallfromLaylatosayherplanewouldbearrivingbeforetheendofhisshift,Rorywaskeentopick
herup.WhenhetoldChanceshewascomingtotown,hefoundoutthatthey’dspokenearlierandhe’d
alreadyofferedheraroomwhileshewasthere.Itmadesensetohaveherattheranchtosortthingsout,
accordingtohisbrother.

Standing in the line at the arrivals gate at Bozeman Airport, Rory held his hat in his hand. He was

anxiousaboutmeetingthislawyerandintroducinghertoGina.Hekepthiseyesonthepeoplefilingout
thegateandlookedforapersontomatchthevoiceoverthephone.Hismindhadbeentoofulloffactsand
legaljargontoaskherwhatshelookedlike.

A petite blonde in a killer red suit with matching mile-high shoes headed his way. He smiled and

lookedaway,notforamomentthinkingthiswasGina’slawyer.Sheappearedfartooyoung.Whenshe
pausedinfrontofhim,heraisedaneyebrow.“CanIhelpyou,ma’am?”

“RoryWatson?”Sheheldoutherhand.“LaylaCox.Nicetomeetyou.”
It took him a moment to gather himself. From the glowing references Chance had given her, he

expectedamiddle-agedwomanwithlinesofexperienceonherface,nottheglowingmodelofperfection
standinginfrontofhim.

“Yeah,Igetitallthetime.Underthisprettypackageisasteeltrapyoudon’twanttogetcaughtin,

believeme.”Shelookedaroundforthebaggagecarousel.“Ionlyhavetheonecase.”

Togethertheywalkedoverandwaitedforthebagstoappear.“Thereitis,theredone.”
Roryreachedforitandswungitoffthebelt.“We’restayingatChance’splacewhilethecontractors

attackmyplace.Hesaidthere’saroomforyoutheretooandhewouldn’thearofyoustayingintown.”

“Thatsoundslikehim.Stilltellingmewhattodo.”Shepulledapairofsunglassesfromherhandbag

and slipped them on as they walked out the door to the car park. “Such a great sense of family, your
brother.”

Layla kept up a brisk chatter as he led her to his waiting truck. “I can’t wait to meet Gina.” She

smoothedherskirtdownoverhershapelylegsandhookedinherseatbelt.“Howlonghaveyouguysbeen
dating?Youneverdidanswerthatquestion.”

HAND

SHOOK

whensheopenedtheporchdoor.WhenRoryhadcalledtosayLaylawasflyingoutto

seeher,hermindhadgoneintopanicmode.Thehousehadtobeclean,amealprepared,andthespare
roomairedout.She’dabandonedherplansforclearingthefrontgardenatthecottageandheadedbackto

Chance’s. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for this woman if it meant she could keep her son from
peopleshe’dnevermet.Ashersweatypalmsconnectedwiththecolddoorhandle,shesaidaprayerand
plastered a smile on her face. Rory opened the truck door for the lawyer and she slid out and strode
purposefullytowardthehouse.

Ginasteppedoutontotheporch,herheartpounding.Somuchrodeonthismeeting.Laylaheldouther

hand.“Hi,Gina,I’mLaylaCox.Thankyousomuchforhavingmeover.”

“It’sgoodofyoutocomeallthisway.Ireallyappreciatethis.”
Laylawavedahandasifitwasn’tabigdeal.“AnythingforChance.Whatamagicalplace,you’reso

lucky to live out here in the wilds like this.” She glanced around and breathed deeply. “Ah, that cool
mountain air. Makes me wonder why the heck I still live in the city sometimes. Get sick of fighting the
traffic and the smog.” She gave Gina a grin and shrugged her shoulders. “Anyway, let’s get down to
businessandseewhatwecando,shallwe?”

Rorywalkedupbehindherwiththesuitcase.“HowaboutwegetyousettledfirstandwhenChance

gets in which won’t be too long, we can get started. He asked if you wouldn’t mind waiting for him to
giveuswhatyou’vegot.”

Laylaturnedherbabyblueseyesinhisdirectionbeforenoddingherhead.“Soundsfairenoughtome

andsavesmerepeatingmyself.Givesmeachancetogetchangedoutofmycityclothes.Icamestraight
fromtheoffice.HopefullymysecretarypackedjeanslikeIaskedherto.”

“Letmeshowyouuptoyourroomthen.”Ginaledthewayinsideandupthestairs,listeningtothe

commentsonhowmuchtheirvisitorlikedthehouseontheway.Onceshewassettled,Ginaleftheralone
andhurriedbackdowntoRory.Sheglancedathisfacetogaugehismoodbeforeshethrewherselfinto
hisarms,shakinguncontrollablywhenhernervesfinallygotthebetterofher.

Hestrokedherhair,waitingforherpanictosubsideandshewasgratefulforthat.“I’msorry,Ithought

IcouldholdittogetherandI’mfailingmiserably.I’msodamnedscaredofwhatshe’sgoingtosay.”She
sighedandtookadeepbreath.“Idon’tknowhowI’lleverbeabletorepayyouforwhatyou’redoing.”

“Honey,settledownandstopworryingaboutthat.You’vegivenmemorehappinessinthelastcouple

ofweeksthanI’vehadinthreeyears.I’vetoldyou,IloveyouandI’mnotgivingup,nomatterhowhard
thisgets.YouandFisheraremyfamilyasmuchasChanceandCallieare.Noneofusexpectpayment,it’s
howfamilieswork.”

Rorybenthisheadandtookhermouthwithhis,stillingtheemotionsrisinginherthroatandinstead,

giving her other sensations to think about. Last night when they had lain together, neither had made the
advance toward sex. It had been a night of consoling and it hadn’t seemed right to take it to that level.
Nowheignitedthepassionaseasilyasflickingaswitch.

“Oops,sorrytobreakupyoutwolovebirds.Ididtrytotakemytimeupstairstogiveyouamoment.”

Laylawalkedintothekitchenwearingapairoftightbluedenimjeansthathuggedhershapelybuttanda
whitebutton-upblouselooseatthethroat.Hershortbobbedhairswungaroundherrose-tintedcheekslike
awaveofliquidgold.

“CanIgetyouanything?Acoffeeortea?”GinasteppedawayfromRory,regrettingitassoonasthe

warmthmovedwithhim.

“I’dlovetotakeawalkifthat’sokay.NothinglikeseeingwhatChancedoesupclose.Kindofhardto

getapictureoftherealcowboywhenhe’sinthecitytakingcareofbusiness.”

“Letmeshowyouaroundthen.”RorytookGina’shandandtogethertheywalkedLayladowntothe

barn where Fisher chased chickens in the hay and Callie was busy getting the feed ready for Tiny and
Sultan.

“Well,lookatyou,cutelittlething.”LaylacroucheddownbesideFisherandwatchedhimtottering

aroundonhispudgylittlelegs.Helookedfromhismothertothestrangerandwentclosertoinvestigate.

“Callie,thisisLayla,afriendofChance’swhoisgoingtohelpwiththesummons.Layla,meetCallie,

Chance’swife.”

“Wife?”Theperfectlyshapedeyebrowsroseanotchortwo.“Wellnow,howlovelyisthat?Imust

sayI’msurprised.Ididn’tknowhewasthinkingofmarriage.Lasttimeitwasmentionedheranamile.”
LaylastoodupandheldoutherhandtoCallieasshesteppedforward.

“Really,dotellmemore.”TheAustraliandrawlheldmorethanahintoflaughter.
“Don’tyoudaretelleveryonemysecrets,Layla,orI’llhavetofireyou.”Chancerodeintothebarn

onhishorse,guidedittothestall,andsliddowntotheground.Withdeftmovements,heleaneddownand
undidthesaddle,swingingitoverthesideofthestallwherehepickedupabrushandrubbedthehorse
down.Tinypushedthegateopenandwalkedintohisstall,droppinghisheadintothefeedbucket.

“You can’t go keeping secrets from your wife, pal. Time you spilled the beans, I’m thinking.” Gina

loved Callie’s pushy nature and wished that one day she would have the guts to tackle anything and
everythingthewayshedid.

HewalkedoverandhuggedLaylabeforeturningandplantingakissonhiswife’slips.“I’lltellyou

laterifyoubehave.”

Shelaughedhystericallyandwinkedattheothers.“Gameon.”
“Nowyou’vemetmycrazyfamily,howaboutweheadindoorsandseewhatyou’vegotplannedto

savethissituation?”

ChapterFourteen

ORY

GROANED

WHEN

herecognizedthetruckcomingupthehilltowardthehouse.“Notnow,Tyson.”

“Well, lookie here, another spunky cowboy and this one looks like he’s single, no little cowgirl

hangingontohisarm.PleasecorrectmeifI’mwrong.”Laylaglancedatthefamilyandwhentheydidn’t
sayanything,shewhistledandsaunteredtowardhim,herhipssashayingseductively.Tysongotoutand
lookedather.Shereachedoutherhandwhenshegottothetruck.“Hi,I’mLayla.”

Tysonstoodwithhismouthhalfopen,dumbstruckatthesightoftheblondebeautyinfrontofhim.
“Neverseenhimwithoutawordtosaybefore.IthinkIkindalikeit.”Chancespokeoverhisshoulder

toRoryastheyallstoodtogetherandwatchedthesceneunfold.

“Chance,youwanttointroducemetothislovelyyoungman.Seemshe’salittleawestruckandlosthis

tongue.”Laylalookedoverhershoulder,hereyesbeckoninghimtohelpher.

Rorysnorted.“ThisIgottasee.Shouldbeworthalaughandahalf.”Hestoodwithhisarmaround

Ginaandwatchedashiselderbrothermadetheintroductions.

“Whatwillwedoifhewantstostayandwon’tgohome?”SheturnedtoRory,fearinhereyes.“I

don’tknowifIwanttotalkabouteverythingwithLaylawhilehe’shere.Youknowwhathisattitudeis
like.”

“He’llbefine,don’tworrysomuch.Ipromisenottoleaveyoualonewithhim.”
GinatriedtorelaxbutwithTysonhereandtheimpendingconversationwiththelawyer,hecouldfeel

she was far too tense. Even watching Layla try to charm her future brother-in-law didn’t seem to calm
Ginadownany.

“You’ll have to show me your ranch soon. I just adore horses. Never had the chance to own one

growingupandnowIliveinthecity,it’sjustnotpossible.Idon’tsupposeyouhappentoknowacowboy
who’sgoodatteachingagreencitygirllikemetoride,doyou?”Sheranherhanddownhisarm,resting
herfingersonhiswrist.

Tyson’s face turned beet red as they watched him struggling to cope with the gorgeous woman

weavingherwebaroundhim.

“Don’tthinkheknowswhattodowithher,doyou?”RoryheardChancewhisperingtoCalliewho

stoodtransfixedbytheexchangeandsniggered.

“Thisishilarious.JustyouwaituntilIgethimalone,he’snotgoingtolivethisonedown.”
Just then Fisher started to get restless in Callie’s arms, so Gina took him inside to feed him dinner.

RoryofferedtohelpbathhimandreadyhimforbedafterFisherhadbeenfed,butfornowhewantedto
stayandwatchtheshow.Chancesidledoverandpunchedhimonthearm.“Betyouahundredbucksshe
hasaringonherfingerwithinthemonth.”

“Noway.She’sacitygirl,lookather.Allflashclothesandhigh-poweredlegalstuff.Shedoesn’tfit

inhere.Tysonwouldnevermovetothecityandgiveuphisranch.”

“You might be proven wrong there, brother. I wouldn’t be surprised if Layla already has it planned

out.Nothingifnotdeterminedandfocused,thatone,justyouwaitandsee.”

“And just how do you know her?” Callie looked up at him. “You seem to be pretty close, so come

clean,pal.”

Chancelaughed.“ShetookcareofanylegalbusinessIhad.Contractsandthelikeplusacoupleof,

umhowshallwesay,paternitysuitsthatgotthrownmywayfromwomenIhardlyevenknew.”

Callie’s face dropped and her mouth went wide in shock. “You mean as in you took them to bed

withoutgettingtoknowthem,ortheywerejustcrazedfanswhowerepullingafastoneonyou?”

“Crazedfans.AlthoughIdiddateoneofthequestionableladieswhofiledagainstme.Neverquitegot

hertobedthough.LittlebitontheunbalancedsideasIfoundoutwhenwewerehalfwaythroughdessert.”

“Hmm, it took you that long. What can I say?” She shook her head. “I thought you were faster than

that.”

“YouknowIam,baby.Iproveittoyoueverynight,don’tI?”
Rorywatchedthebyplaybetweenthetwoofthemandhopedthislatesthiccupwouldbeclearedup

soonsohecouldmarryGinaandgetonwiththeirlives.Hehatedtoseeherstrugglingwitheverything
beingthrownatherthewayitwas.Itseemedveryunfair.Heknewhowlifewentsomedays.Youjusthad
torollwithitanddothebestyoucould.Heknewthatfromexperience.

INA

’

HOPES

gettingTysonoutofthewaybeforetheystartedtalkingoverhercaseweredashedwhen

hefollowedLaylainside,likeahungrypuppyafterabigjuicybone.Helookedtotallybesottedwithher
andGinacouldn’tblamehim.Shewasstunningandseemedlikesuchadeterminedperson.Laylawasput
togetherliketheperfectpackage,andGinafeltinadequatebesideher.Whatisitgoingtotakeformeto
standupformyself?Idon’twanthimheretojudgemebutI’mhardlyinthepositiontopissoffthe
lawyer.

Rory took the sleepy little boy from her arms and carried him upstairs, leaving her at a loss for

somethingtodotokeepherhandsbusy.HernerveswereshotandhavingTysonarounddidn’tdoanything
tohelp.

“Right,let’sgetthisstarted,shallwe?”LaylapickedupherbriefcasejustasRorywalkedbackdown

thestairsandintothekitchen.

He came over and put his arm around her shoulders and hugged her close. “It’ll be fine, stop

stressing.”

She took a deep breath and let herself be led to the dining table where everyone else had already

takenaseat.

“Right.”Laylatookoutalegalpad,pen,andasheathofpapers.“ThisiswhatIhavesofar.Feelfree

tointerruptanytime,Gina,andgivemethefactsasyouknowthem.Iwanttokeepontrackwiththisso
let’s keep assumptions to a minimum, please, and if you have nothing to add, keep your opinion to
yourselves,itwillonlyslowusdown.”Shelookedateveryonearoundthetableinturn.

GinaglancedatTyson,buthisgazeremainedlockedonLayla.
“Right,Mr.andMrs.Bellinghamhavefiledsuitforthesolecustodyofyourson,Fisher.Thereasons

behindthisareasfollows.Youarebeingcitedasanunfitmother.”Laylalookedather.“FromwhatIcan
findout,they’vedonesomediggingaroundandfoundoutaboutyourfamilyhistoryaswellasthehovel
youandFisherlivedin.Iquote,‘theappallingconditionsshesubjectedthechildtoandtheunsupervised
timewhenshewaselsewhere.’”LaylaraisedaneyebrowandglancedatGina.“Caretofillmein?”

Gina felt the blood drain from her face and gripped the edge of the table. Why would someone tell

themthat?It’snotfair.Ididmybest.

“Whatdoesshemean?”Rorygrippedherhand.“Gina,whatdidyoudotoFisher?”
She swallowed, feeling the cold sweat break out on her face. What would he think of her when he

knewhowshelefthersonalone?“I…Icouldn’thelpit.Ihadnochoice.”

“Nochoicewithwhat?”Hishandpinchedherskin,hisgripthattight.
Ginalookedintohiseyes.Thismightbethestrawthatbrokethecamel’sback.Rorywouldfrownon

this kind of behavior, she knew he would. “I had to leave Fisher alone in our room one day.” The
collectivegasparoundthetablewasn’tasurprisetoher.“Itwasonlyforamoment,Iswear.Itwasso
coldoutsideandhewasalreadysick.Ididn’twanttotakehimoutside.”SheglancedatLayla,begging
hertounderstand.

“My neighbor was out, the one who used to babysit for me. I don’t know where she was or when

she’dcomebackbutIranoutofformulaandhewaspastdueforafeed.IknowIshouldn’thavebutI’d
been under a bit of stress with work and everything—my mind was on other things.” Like how I was
going to afford to feed my baby. “I had to go to the pawn shop, get rid of the last thing of value that I
owned,myfather’swatch.ItwouldhavebeenenoughtofeedFisheruntilIgotanotherjob.”Shereached
outtoRory.“Itwasonlyforamoment.Iswearitwas.”

“Itmusthavemadeanimpressiononsomeoneforthemtorememberitandtelltheotherside.”The

lawyer’scoolgazerakedoverherskin.

“When I got back he was crying and they were trying to open the bedroom door. But he was fine,

merelycryinginhungerandfeelingmiserablewithhiscold.”

“Thismightbetheactionthatwillcostyouyourson.Youdorealizethat,don’tyou?It’swhatsome

wouldcalledabandonment.Ifitcanbeproventhatyouleftatinybabyalone,itwon’tlookgoodforyou
incourt.”

She’dbeenpreparedforitbuthearingitfromLaylamadeitallthemoredamning.
“Howcouldyou?”Rorypulledhishandawayandstoodup.Shewatchedhimstumbletothekitchen

counter and lean heavily against it. Chance rose and went to him, slipping his arm across his brother’s
shouldersandtalkinginwhispersthatshecouldn’thear.

“Itwasunavoidableanditwasn’tasbadasitsounds.”SheliftedherchinandstaredatLayla.“We

livedinanoldrun-downhouseinabusinessdistrict.Nextdoortherewasapawnshop,agrocerystore,
andaliquoroutlet.Icouldhearmybabyfromtheshopwhenthewindwasn’thowlingupthealleyway.It
wasn’tasthoughIcaughtabusuptown.”SheglancedoveratRorywhostoodwatchingandlistening.

“Itwaseitherleavehimwherehewaswarmanddryortakehimoutintherainwhenhewassick,

onlytomakehimsickerstill.TherewasnowayIcouldhaveaffordedthehospitalifhegotpneumoniaso
IchosewhatIthoughtwasbestformybabyand,asyoucansee,itdidn’tdohimanyharm.Iwasableto
conduct my business within minutes and if it wasn’t for my ‘neighbors’ wanting to stick their noses in
whereitwasn’ttheirbusiness,theywouldn’thavebeenanythewiser.Fisherwashardlyscreamingthe
placedown.He’donlyjustwokenupandwasgettingfidgetywhenIgotback.”

“Butyoulefthimalone,Gina.”Rorywalkedtowardher.
“Ihadnochoice.”
“Whatiftherewasafire?”
“There wasn’t. But, if there was, I would have run in to rescue my son, regardless. We all make

choices,Rory.Someareharderthanothers,Igetthat.AndIunderstandsomepeoplewilljudgemeonthat
alonebutIwasonmyown,nosupportapartfromanelderlyladywhoneededmorehelpthanIdid,soI
hadtodowhatworkedforme.”

She sighed. “Look, I’ll understand if you want me to leave, I will. This is all too much to throw at

yourfamily.”Ginastoodup,smootheddownherskirt,thinkingithadbeengoodwhileitlasted.

“Don’tberidiculous.”CalliepushedbackherchairandstormedaroundtoGina,grabbingheraround

thewaistandstoppingherinhertracks.“Youdidwhatyouhadto,Igetthat.Nowwehavetomakesure
everyone else understands as well.” She tipped her chin at her husband and brother-in-law. “Think

carefullybeforeyoutwohaveanothermeltdownandwonderwhatyouwouldhavedoneinherplace.”

ShenudgedGinabacktositinherchairandstoodwatchingthemen.“Well,gotoveryourprecious

moment?”

“Itwasn’tsafetoleavehimlikethat.”Rorysteppedtowardher,anguishonhisfaceandGinaknew

exactly how he felt. Hadn’t it broken her heart to leave her baby for even a minute? They couldn’t
possiblyunderstandhowithadbeenforher.Butbecauseofthat,herfuturewasnowontheline.

“Igetthat,reallyIdo,butgiventhecircumstances,wouldyouhavetakenasickbabyoutinthatkind

ofweatherandriskedhimgettingsickerespeciallywhenyoudidn’thavethemoneyforhospitalbillsor
medicine?”

Rorylookeddownathisshoes.“Probablynot.”
“Ifwe’refinishedhere?”Layla’sgazeflickeredoverthem,thenbackdowntothepapersinherhand.
RorysatdownbesideGinaagain,reachedtentativelyforherhand.Hiswarmfingersclosedaround

hersandherheartraced.Didthismeanhewasn’tgoingtolethergo?

“Yourfatherdiedasadrugaddictwhohadneversoughtrehabilitationnomatterhowmanytimesthe

courtsorderedit.Heisclassedasbeinganundesirableinfluenceonyougrowingupandthereforethey
thinkyouareunfittoraisetheirgrandson.Thereisalsospeculationofyourowndruguse.”

Starsformedinfrontofhereyesandherbreathingturnedragged.SheclutchedRory’sfingers.
“You are accused of being the person who introduced their son to drugs and also supplying him as

well.”LaylaflickedherhairbackandlookedatGina.“Thisisanotherseriouschargeandyou’regoingto
havethebattleofallbattlesonyourhands.Theseguyspullalotofweightandhavethemoneytohirethe
best there is. I wouldn’t be surprised if they start a smear campaign against you just to help leverage
thingsintheirfavor.”

“That’snotlegal,surely?”CallieglancedbetweenGinaandthelawyer.
“No it’s not, and if it’s their lawyer doing it, dropping snippets to the media from ‘an undisclosed

source’—andyoucanbesuretheywon’tdirtytheirhandspersonallylikethatanyway—theycanclaimno
priorknowledgeandgetawaywithit.Besides,bythenthepublicwillbeonthegrandparents’sideand
nojurywouldhandachildbacktosomeonewho’slookinglikeadrugdealer.Wouldyou?”

Calliefrowned.“That’snotright.Ginawouldneverdothat,lookather.”
“We have to deal with facts so this is what we do.” She turned to Gina. “Do you even know who

you’redealingwithhere?”

Roryspokeupwhilesqueezingherhandreassuringly.“Igoogledthem.Heisinhisearlysixties,she’s

onlyinherfifties.Onechild,Aden.TheyownhalfoftheWestCoastbythelookoftheirbio.Notusedto
losing,byallaccounts,ifyoucanbelievethosehe’sburnedalongthewayinbusinessdeals.Theyplayto
winanddon’tseemtocarewhatitcoststhem.”HeglancedatGina.“Therearealsoreportsoftheirgood
deeds, philanthropy, and support of minority groups. Looks like they can play with the big boys or get
downanddirtywiththecharitiesthatmattermakingthemlookgood.”

“Exactly.Thisiswhatyou’reupagainst.Theyhavesomeverypowerfulconnections.Thisisn’tgoing

tobeeasybyanymeans.”Sheshuffledherpapers.“Iknowthisishardonyou,Gina,butIhavetodothis
toyouifwehaveanypossiblechanceofwinning.Iwanttodoadrugtestfirst.Howlongdidyouknow
Aden?”

Ginalickedherlips,tryingtogetmoisturebackinhermouthbeforesheanswered.“Um,Imethim

abouteightmonthsbeforeIbecamepregnant.Fisherisnearlyeighteenmonthsoldnowsoalmostthree
yearsago.”

“Right.”Shemadenotesonherlegalpad.“Didyoudodrugsinthetimeyouweretogetherorthetime

priortomeetinghim?”

“I’veneverdonedrugs.”
“Ever?Noteventriedthemataparty,evenjustonce?”LaylastaredatGinaasifshedidn’tbelieve

her.

“No.Notevenonce.Isawwhattheydidtomyfather.”
AsmilecurvedLayla’slips.“Solongasthisisprovenbythetest,itwillgoalongwaytosavingyour

ass.Howlongdidittakeyougrowyourhairthatlong,four,fiveyears?”

“Iguessthat’saboutright.”
“Longenoughforourpurposesthen.Idon’tcarewhatyoudidbeforethat.”Shemadeanoteonher

legalpadbeforelookingbackatGina.

ChapterFifteen

“S

JUST

clarify things, the drug test isn’t going to give me any surprises then, you’re sure about

that?”

Ginashookherheadandhenoticedthefirerisinginhereyes.Thishadtobehardforheraswellas

embarrassingtoairherhistoryinfrontofpeopleshehardlyreallyknewandhecouldtellshewasgetting
ready to snap at someone. When Layla had started asking questions her face had gone pale and Rory
hopedshedidn’tpassout.He’dneverseenanyoneasfrightenedasshewas.

“Ineedahairsample.Luckilyyoursissolong.It’smorethanweneedwhichmakesthingssomuch

easier.Itwillshowuswhatyou’vetakeninthewayofsubstancesoverthelastfewyears.It’llgettested
inanindependentfacilitythatisapprovedbythecourts.”Shemadeanothernoteonherpad.

“They’rehintingatyousupplyingtheirsonaswellasgettinghimaddicted.HowdidyoumeetAden?

Canyoutellmethat?”

“Iworkedasawaitress.HecameinonedaywithsomefriendstothedinerwhereIworkedandthen

hekeptcomingback.”SheglancedquicklyatRorywhocouldn’thelpbutwatchher.“Wehititoffreally
wellandstarteddatingsoonafterthat.”

“Soyoudidn’tknowwhohewas?”
“No.Helookedthesameasmostofthecrowdthatcamein.College-typekidswhoneverreallyhad

muchmoney.”

“Whendidyounoticehewasdoingdrugs?”

INA

SIGHED

AND

thoughtback.“Ithinkitwasafterhe’dmovedinwithme.Ineverhadmuchofvaluebut

onedayInoticedthingsmissing.WhenIaskedhimaboutit,hesnappedandsaidIwascrazyandaskedif
IwasIaccusinghimofsomething.”Shelookedaroundthetable.“Ihadnoonetoturnto,notasoulsince
myfatherdiedandIwaslonely.I’mnotproudofthefactthatIrolledoverandgavein,alright?Itwas
nicetohavesomeonewhocamehomeatnightandIcouldtalkto.”Sheswallowed,andtampereddown
hertemper.Itwasn’ttheirfaultsoshereallyneededtokeepcontrolofheremotions.“Sorry.Itriednotto
upsethimbecauseIdidn’twanttomakehimleave.MoreandmorewentmissingincludingthemoneyI
usedtostashawayforrent.Afterawhile,Idecideditwastoolatetostandupformyselfagainsthim.”

“Sohestolefromyoutosupporthisdrughabit?”
“Yes, at least that’s what I believe. We were the only two in the apartment. Who knows what

happenedwhileIwasatwork.”

“How did he die?” Layla looked at papers from her file. “From all accounts, he wasn’t formally

identifiedatthetimeofhisdeath.”

“Iknewverylittleabouthimreally.Iknowitmightsoundstrangetoyou,hedidn’tliketotalkabout

himselfandatthetimeIdidn’tcare.Iwashappyhewaswithme.”

“So,hediedhow?”Laylalookedpointedlyatherwaitingforananswer.
“Iwokeuponemorningtogotoworkandfoundhimdeadnexttome.He’doverdosed.Ifreakedout

anddidn’tknowwhattodo.”

“So,helpmeouthere,Gina.Justgivemethewholedamnedstory.Itwouldbehelpfulinthisinstance

ifyoucouldelaborateandIdidn’thavetodrageverysentencefromyoulikethis.”

“Hey,goeasyonher.Can’tyouseeshe’supset?”Roryturnedonthelawyerandgrowledinwarning

beforeturningtoGinaagain.Hisfacesoftened,thebigprotectivedeputywhoonlymomentsagodoubted
her,nowturnedintheblinkofaneyeintothesoft-heartedmansheloved.Whenhereachedouttotouch
her,Ginatriedtosmileandreassurehimshewasokay.Laylawasright,thishadtobedone.

“Settledown,Deputy.Iftheygetheronthestand,whatI’mdoingnowwillseemlikechild’splay.Sit

downandbehaveyourself.”

“Gina?”
“I didn’t know what to do. He still had the needle in his arm and he was cold. So very cold.” She

shuddered and rubbed her arms even though the house was warm. “I don’t know how long I sat there
watchinghim.EventuallyIcalledthepoliceandtheycame.”

“Theydidn’taskforidentification?”
“Yestheydid.Icouldn’tfindhiswalletatfirst.IdiscovereditlaterwhenIgotovertheshockandI

gave it to them. He didn’t have much of anything else apart from a few clothes. Everything in the
apartmentwasmine.”

“Whatwashelike,hispersonality?”Laylaleanedbackinherchairandtappedthepenonherlips.
“He could be very sweet. Then he would change and be erratic and snappy. I never knew when he

wasgoingtoerupt.”

“Andyouneverfoundanyevidenceofdruguseinthehouse?”
“No.IguessInevertriedtofindany.It’snotlikeIknewforsureheuseddrugs,moreofaguess,I

suppose.Theerraticbehaviorshouldhavealertedme,butitwaseasiertopretenditwasn’tthere.Ididn’t
wanttoupsethimandgetintoanargument.I’dhadenoughofthatgrowingup.”

“Fairenough.Sowhenthepolicequestionedyou,whatdidyoutellthem?”
“Exactlywhat I’ve toldyou.” Gina lickedher lips and glancedat Rory. “Theycame back again the

nextdayandgrilledmeagain.Iletthemsearchtheapartmentfordrugsbutthereweren’tany.Therewas
nothing that gave any clue as to who he really was and they said he’d be classed as just another poor
personunlesssomeonecameforward.Hiswalletwasundertheseatofmycar,althoughthatdidn’tgive
themmuchtogoonanyway.”

“Whatdidyoudothen?Didyouknowyouwerepregnant?”
“No. I found out a couple of weeks later. I had nobody to turn to.” She ignored the look of pity in

Rory’s eyes. She only had herself to blame, or so she told herself at the time. “The rent was overdue
becauseof,well,AdenIguess,soIpackedupwhatIcould,soldwhatIcouldn’t,andwalkedout.”

“Right,Icanusethis.Wheredidyougo?Givemeallthedetailsyoucantoo,please.”Laylaleaned

forwardandwatchedherwithpiercingeyes,makingGinafeellikeabugonapin.

“ItookwhatIcouldfitintomycarandwenttoaflophouseandrentedaroom.Theydidn’taskforthe

lastsweeksrentinadvanceanditwasallIcouldafford.Idon’tcarewhatanyonesaysaboutitnotbeing
asafeplaceforFisher,wedidn’thaveanychoice.Itwasthatorthestreets.IstayedthereuntilImoved
overhere.”

“Yes, we’ll get to that in a moment. Back to the, ah, living accommodations. You moved into this

room.Youwerepregnant.Youhadlittleornomoney,correct?”

Ginanoddedherhead.
“Youcontinuedtoworkatthediner?”
“Yes,rightupuntilFisherwasborn.Ihadacoupleofdaysoffandthenfoundanotherjob.Myboss

wouldn’tholdmypositionforme.”Sheheldherheaduphigh,determinednottofeelbadaboutwhathad

alreadypassed.Shewasafighteranditwasallpartofsurvivingonherownterms.

“Wholookedafterthebabywhileyouwereworking?”
“I made friends with an elderly lady in the room next door. We used to share the kitchen and some

dayswesharedwhatlittlefoodwehad.SheofferedtolookafterFisherwhileIwentbacktoworkandI
paidherwhatIcould.ItworkedforbothofusuntilmyshiftsgotcuttoalmostnothingandIcouldn’tpay
formyroomanymore.”

ChapterSixteen

ORY

SHARED

glancewithhiselderbrotherandknewwhathewasthinking.Theybothhadasoftspot

foranunderdogandwhatGinahadgonethroughwastough.Listeningtohertalkmadehimfeelguiltyfor
doubtingherreasoningforleavingFisheralonewhileshewenttogethisformula.Hecouldseeshehad
donewhatshethoughtwasbestandwasn’tbeingneglectful,butitstillniggledathim.WouldCindyhave
donethesamethingundersimilarcircumstances?

Together they would make sure she was eased through this case with the minimum of fuss and

exposure.RoryknewChancestillhadhiscontactsalloverAmericafromlawyerslikeLaylatothemedia.
Hecouldstirupahornet’snestifhechosetodiverttheattentionawayfromGina.

“Nowthat’swhenyouansweredtheadvertisementRoryputinthepaper?”
“Notyou,too.Whatiswrongwithyouguys?”ItseemedTysoncouldholdhistonguenolonger.He

glaredatGina,hismouthgoingintoatightline.

“Let me remind you of something, cowboy.” Layla pointed a shiny red nail in his direction. “If you

wanttoremaininthisroom,inthisfamilyconversation,Iwouldstronglysuggestyouzipyourlipunless
youhavesomethingnicetosay.Preferablyaboutme,butwecandiscussthatlater.Rightnowyouaren’t
beinghelpfulintheslightest.”Sheflickedherhairback.“Behaveoryoucangooutside.Idon’twantyou
upsettingmyclient.”Laylaraisedhereyebrowathimandwhenhelookeddownatthetable,sheblew
himakissmakingsureheheardthesoundeffects.

“Right,beforeIwassorudelyinterrupted.Youansweredanadforawife.Ratherariskythingtodo,I

wouldhavethought.Soyouansweredhisad,isthatcorrect,Gina?”

“Yes.”
“All of these things are helping me garner a picture of what your life has been like since you met

Aden.Ifwecanprovehewastheonewholetyoudownandledyouintopovertywithhisquestionable
actions,wecanturnthetablesontheclaim,althoughIstillthinkwe’llhaveafightonourhands.I’mnot
doingthisbecauseIenjoypullingwingsoffofbutterflies.”ShesmiledandRoryunderstoodwhyChance
likedhersomuch.Shewassharpasatackandseemedincrediblydetermined,evenifGinawasfindingit
ahardinterview.

“Youplacedtheadwhen,Rory?”
Hegaveherthedateandstareddownhisyoungerbrother.
“Caretosharewithmewhyyoudidwhatyoudid?Justformyowninformationatthisstage.”
“Ididn’tfeellikegoingthroughthewholedatingsceneagain.MywifediedthreeyearsagoandIwas

aftermoreofacompanionthananything.IlikedthesoundofGinawhenwespokeonthephoneandthe
photoshesentmadeitclearthatshewasnicelooking.ItwasallIwantedatthetime,companionship.Or
so I thought. I’ve since changed my mind.” He gripped Gina’s hand, giving it an extra squeeze. “Fisher
wasabonus.”

Laylalookedup,hermouthasmallroundoh.“Soyoudidn’tknowabouthim?”
“No.”
Shewrotemorenotes,herhandmovingfranticallyoverthepage.Silencesurroundedthetablewhile

sheworked.WhenshelookedupsheglancedatGinaagain.“So,youdidn’ttellRoryaboutthechildthen.
Tellmewhy?”

Ginagaveherfiancéeaquickglancebeforespeaking.“Iwasdesperatebythisstage.Ihadverylittle

moneyleftandmyshiftshadbeencutevenmore.Iwasactuallylookinginthepaperforanotherjobwhen
Ispiedthead.Iwaspreparedtodoalmostanythingtokeeparoofovermybaby’sheadandfoodinhis
stomach.I’mnotproudofthatfact,butI’ddoitagainifIhadto.AndthenIlostmyjob.”

“Didyoustoptothinkofwhatyouwantedforyourselfoutoflife?”
“No.I’vehadtolookoutformyselfforyears,evenbeforemyfatherdied.Sothiswasnodifferentin

mymind.”

Laylasmiled,agesturethatremindedRoryofacattakinganextraslurpofcreamfromthebowl.“You

twoseemrathercozytome.”

“Wefellinlove.”HeglancedatChancewhogavehimasmallnod.“ItworkedforChanceandCallie

soItooktheriskitwouldworkforustoo.”

Layla looked at them with her mouth wide open, words escaping her for the moment. She glanced

betweenthebrothersandcastaquickglanceatTysonwhohadhisheaddown,afrownonhisface.She
closedhermouthandclearedherthroat,seeminglyswallowingwithdifficulty.“Right.”Stillshocked,she
pickedupherpenandclickeditacoupleoftimes,seemingtogatherherwits.

Rorycametotherescue.“Strangerthingshavehappened.”
“Sure they do. Look, the courts are going to find it rather convenient that you two suddenly fell in

love.Soundsabitsaccharine,ifyouseewhatImean.Andbeinganofficerofthelawyourself,I’msure
youdon’tbelieveincoincidences.”

“Tough.Wehaveandwe’llbemarriedwhenourhouseisrenovated.”
Laylaputherpendownandclaspedherfingerstogetherinfrontofherface.“Ifyouwantmyopinion,

andChanceispayingveryhandsomelyforit,getmarriednow.Provethisisn’tjustaconvenientwayto
trytocheatthecourts.”

“That’snot fair. Rorywanted to getmarried in our ownplace when wewere ready.” Gina glanced

aroundthetable.“Theycan’tdothistous,it’snotright.”

“D

YOU

WANT

toloseyourson?”

“That’salittlebitbelowthebelt,don’tyouthink?”Ginastaredatthewomanwhoamomentagohad

herfullsupport.

“No,notifitgetsuswhatwewant.”Sheleanedforwardonherelbows.“Wehavetoshowthecourt

twothings.One,theBellinghamsarewronginasmuchasitwasn’tyouleadingtheirsonastray,itwas
himthatputyouinthepositionyouareinnow.Idoubtpublicopinionwouldbeabletosoftentheblowto
theircaseifitgotoutthataspoiltrichkidondrugsgotyoupregnantandleftyouinpoverty.Andtwo,this
isacommittedlovingrelationshipthatwouldbethebestplaceforyoursontogrowup.YouhaveRory’s
familyhere—hisbrothersandsister-in-law.”

LaylalookedatChance,alinemarringherperfectforehead.“Isyourfatherstillalive?”
Hescowledandcrossedhisarms.
“I’lltakethatasayes,then.Doyoumeantotellmethatafteralltheseyears,youhaven’tmadepeace

withthatman?”Shestaredathim,hermouthsetandhelookedaway.

“Thisisn’taboutme,Layla.Let’skeepitthatway.”Everyoneintheroomwatchedtheplaybetween

thetwoofthem.

“Actually it is. You pay me for my opinion and now you’re getting it. I helped you set up bank

accountstokeepthisfamilyafloatandmadesuretheyhadwhattheyneeded.Nowtheyneedyoutostep

uponemoretime.Makeupwithyourfather,Chance.Atleastenoughthathewillhavesomecontactwith
Fisher. It’s important to show a united, loving family. From what I can find out about the Bellinghams,
Fisherwouldprobablybebroughtupbynanniesandspendhisformativeyearsinboardingschool,justas
hisfatherdid.Idoubttheywouldchangetheirverybusylifestyletoaccommodateasmallchild.Weneed
togoonebetterandshowthecourtstheopposite.”

Ginaheldherbreath,waitingexpectantlytohearwhathesaid.ChanceglancedatherandCalliedug

himintheribswithherelbow.“Stopbeingsuchahardass.Hell,Chance,ifmymotherdiedandleftDad
alonewithuskids,Iwouldn’tblamehimforhittingthebottle.MightbehardbutI’dstilllovehimand
understandwhyhedidit.”

“Youweren’there.”Heglareddownatherandsheignoredhim.
“Seemstomeyou’vebeenpreciouslongenough.Makeupwithhimandthenmaybeyourownkids

will be able to have a grandfather around. Heaven knows it’s not going to happen from my side of the
family.”Shelookeddownatherhands,hershouldersdrooping.

He placed an arm around her and looked back at Gina before sliding his gaze to the lawyer. “Hard

hitter.”

She smiled and let go a tiny “whoop,” fist pumping the air. “Knew you’d see things my way

eventually.”

Gina sagged in her chair. It was all getting too much for her. The tears rolled down her cheeks and

therewasnothingshecoulddotostopthem.

“Hey,comehere,honey.I’vegotyou.”Rorypushedhischairoutandpulledherontohiskneewhere

hecroonedtohersoftlyassheletitallout.Shesobbedforthefathershelost,thefatherFisherhadnever
known,andtheagonyshewouldgothroughiftheylostthiscase.Whenhertearseased,Rorywipedher
cheekswithatissue.Ginaglancedaroundthetable.Everyonesatwatchinghermeltdown.

“I’msorry.Ididn’tmeantoloseitlikethat.Itrytopridemyselfonnotbeingaweepyfemale.”
Calliejumpedupandhurriedovertoher.“Aw,babe,it’sokay.We’dalldothesame,believeme,and

Idon’tthinkanylessofyouforlettingyouremotionsgetthebetterofyou.You’vebeenthroughalotthese
lastcoupleofyears.Letmegetyouacupofcoffeewhilewefinishthisoff.Laylasaidshewon’tbemuch
longer.”

GinatriedtostandupbutRoryheldhertightonhislap.“Stayhere.”
Shewipedhereyesagainandlookedatthelawyerwhosmiledinherdirection.
“Right,theplanisthis:I’llgobacktothecitytomorrowanddosomemorelegworkonthiscase.I’ll

schedule a meeting with the other side’s lawyers. I want proof you two are married before this gets to
court,ifiteverdoes.I’llalsoneedacopyoftheadvertisementyouplacedsowecanproveyouwere
already on this path before the papers were served on Gina.” She gave them another smile before
proceeding.“ThewayIseeitatthispointisthis:ifwecanshowyoursonwouldbebetteroffhereonthe
ranchgrowingupwithlovingfamilyaroundinsteadofstaff,westandagoodchanceofthisnevergoingto
court.Idoubtthey’llwanttheirdarlingson’smemorytarnished.Especiallywhenthepublicfindsouthow
farhewenttodistancehimselffromhisparents.Ifweknewwhyitwouldhelpaswell.”Shetickedoff
anotherentryonherpage.“I’lldosomediggingaroundandseewhatIcancomeupwith.Farbetterfor
themtoannouncethatthey’vemanagedtotrackdowntheirgrandchildandwillgivehimandhismother
theirfullsupport.”

“Wecandothat.I’llmakesureofit,right,babe?”Rorykissedhercheek.
“Ifit’stheonlyway,andyou’resure,I’mfinewithit.”Shesniffedandlookedintohiseyes.“Ilove

you,youknowthat,don’tyou?”

“Backatyou,beautiful.Youmakemeaveryhappyman.Hungrybuthappy.”

ChapterSeventeen

“D

INNER

ALREADY

intheoven.Iwasn’tsuretonightwasgoingtoturnoutsoImadeahugebeef-and-

chilicasseroleearlier.Ionlyneedtomakeapotofriceandit’sgoodtogo.”

“Thatsoundswonderful.”Laylaputhernotebookinherbriefcaseandstoodup,stretching.“I’vehad

nothing since a snack on the plane on the way here. Can’t say that was anything to get excited about
either.”

“How about a glass of wine instead of coffee, ladies? I think we’ve covered more than I expected

tonightanywayanditsoundsbetterthancoffeeafterthatsession.”Chancestoodupandlookedaround.

“Uh,Chance,canIhaveaword?”GinabitherlipandRorywatchedassheformulatedthewordsin

herhead.He’dbecomefairlyadeptatreadingherfaceinthelastcoupleofweeksandshewasgearingup
tothankhisbrother.

“Sure.”
“IknowfromRorythatyoudon’tholdmuchregardforyourfatherbecauseofwhathappenedwhen

youwereyoungsoIjustwantedtosaythanks.Forofferingtotryatleasttoputonahappyfamilyfrontso
Idon’tlosemyson.”

“How can I refuse to help the little guy? We all love both of you already so it’s a given I’ll do my

sharetohelp.”Hewalkedovertoherandtookbothofherhandsinhis.“Notsayingwe’lleverbethe
bestofbuddies,butI’llgiveitmybestshot,okay?”

Ginanodded,herfacelightingupwithrelief.“Can’taskformorethanthat.”
Rorypassedheraglassofwinebeforedroppingakissonherlips“Lookslikewehaveaweddingto

plan.”CallietippedherglasstoGina’s.“Howmuchtimedoyouthinkwehave,Layla,togetthisdone
anddusted?”

“IsthatanAustralianphrase?IthinkIlikeit.”ShetooktheglassasRoryhandedittoher.“Hmm,let

mesee.TomorrowIcandosomeresearch,getmyguysnoopingalittlebitmore.Anythingwecanfindout
aboutthefamilywillhelp.ThenIneedtoputaproposaltogetherandcontacttheirlawyers.Givemea
week,tendaysmax.Thinkyoucanmanagethat?”

“We’lldoit.IcangointotowntomorrowandseeReverendDavis.Seeifhe’llmarryus.”
“Ifhesaysno,tellhimyou’llgetElvistodoitinVegasifhecan’t.”Chanceslippedhishandaround

Callie’swaistandrestedhisheadonhershoulderwhisperinginherear.

“Youdidn’t?”Laylaglancedatthem,alookofhorroronherface.
Aroaroflaughtercamefromthepairofthemandsheshuthermouth,lipspressedtogether.
“Seriously,howisthatevenlegal?”Tysonspokeforthefirsttimesincehewasputinhisplace.
“I’lldoit.Justleadmeintherightdirection.”Roryheldhishandsup.“Ifthegoodreverendsaysno,

I’llbookflights.”

“I suppose so long as you have the correct paperwork it doesn’t really matter who marries you.”

Layla shrugged her shoulders. “Never would have thought you’d do that though, Chance. Thought you
would have gone down the extravagant route somehow. Big flashy wedding with all the bells and
whistles.”

“Notmystyleandyouknowthatfromallthetimesyouhelpedmegetawayfromthem.Agirlfromthe

bush answering an ad in the horse-and-cattle magazine for a wife is hardly going to ask for the public

spotlightofahugeweddinglikethat,nowisshe?”

CalliegrinnedwildlyasLaylalookedbetweenherandChance.Seemedthelawyerhadcaughtonto

thefactthatRory’smarriagewasn’tthefirstonetobeorganizedbywayofanadvert.

HEN

SHE

CRAWLED

betweenthesheetslaterthatnight,exhaustionpulledatGina.Hereyesachedfromthe

tearsshe’dshedearlierandherheadthrobbedwithatensionthatwouldn’tgoaway.Rorystrippedoff,
climbedintobed,reachedforher,slidhishanddownherback,andpulledherintohisbody.

“Icanhearthatbrainofyourstickingawayfromhere.”Hekissedthetopofhernose.“I’mnotgoing

tochangemymind.IloveyouandIdon’tcareifwegetmarriedhereintown,atthecottage,orinVegas.
SolongasImarryyouandgainasonintheprocess,I’mallforit.”

“I’llunderstandifyouwanttochangeyourmind,Rory.It’salottotakein.”
“I’mnotchangingmymind,notnoweventhoughitmayhavelookedlikeitdownstairsearlier.”He

brushed a finger down her cheek, knowing he finally meant it. After a horrible moment of doubt in the
kitchen with the lawyer, Rory had pushed his demons down and committed himself to standing by her
side.“Youknow,lastweekIstillhadnigglesofdoubtflickerupeverynowandthen.Idon’tknow,guess
it’smebeingguiltyandnotlettinggoofthepast.ButIfigureifyou’repreparedtotakeachanceonme,I
shoulddothesame.Webothcomewithbaggage,Gina.It’snotacaseofwhoseisworse.”

“HowdidIgetsolucky?”Shesighedandsnuggledintohischest,herlipsonhiswarmskin.
“Webothgotlucky.Iwasinabadplacetoo.Nowwehavetomakesurewedoeverythingwecanto

staytogether.Laylaseemstoknowwhatshe’stalkingaboutandChancethinkstheworldofher,soIfigure
wedoasshesuggests.”

“Yeah,Idon’tsupposethere’sanychoice.”
“You’rethinkingit’sahardshiptomarryme?”Hesoundedwoundedbutshecouldhearthesmilein

hisvoice.

“Terriblehardship.Atleastyouletmetakeitoutonyourbodytomakeupforit.”
“Proveitthen.”Roryhookedalegoverhersandsnakedahanddowntocradleherbutt.
“Youlaybackthen,andletmedojustthat.”Ginapushedhimontohisbackandstraddledhiswaist.

Sheliftedherarmsandpulledthesleepshirtoverherhead,beforethrowingittothefloor.Hisgazefell
toherbreastsandshecuppedtheminherhands.“Thesewouldn’tbefavoritesofyours,wouldthey?”

Hiscockhardenedandpressedintothecleftsofherbutt.Withherthumbandfinger,Ginatweakedher

nipples,pullingthemtautasRory’sgazesmoldered.Herbreathhitchedasawashofpleasurerolledover
herbody.Sheliftedherbuttupandhoveredoverhiscock,watchingtheemotionsonhisface.

Hegaspedwhenshesliddownhisbodyandlayonhislegs,herfaceoverhisgroin.Herhotbreath

quickenedasshegrippedhispenisinherhand,runningherthumbovertheslitinthetop.Hisownmusky
scentreachedhernostrilsassheloweredherhead,mouthopentotakehimin.

Gina smiled to herself as her lips locked around him. His body jerked and his hands gripped the

sheetseithersideofhim.Sherakedherteethoverthesensitiveedgeoftheskinontheheadofhiscock,
while her other hand cupped his balls. She drew him in and then ran her tongue up the seam before
drawinghiminagain.

HisballstightenedinherhandsandGinaputmoreforceintoherlips,pullingagainsthim.Justasshe

thoughthewasgoingtoexplodeinhermouth,shewasliftedupandplaceddownonhislap.Roryslid
intoherinoneswiftmove,makinghergaspandgriphisshouldersashepumpedintoher.

Togethertheyfoundtherhythmthatbroughtthembothtoanexplosiveorgasm.Ginaslidoffofhimand

crawledintotheshelterofhisarms,fallingasleepfeelingprotectedandveryloved.

ChapterEighteen

“W

ELL

NOW

ORY

.’Tisastrangerequestyouhavethere.”Thereverendseemedtoponderthesituation.

“Attheendoftheday,youwouldhavebeenmarriedanywaysoIreallydon’thaveaproblemwithitso
longasIthinkyou’rewellsuitedandyoucanarrangealicense.It’sthewayIworkandIcan’tchangethat
for anything, goes against my principles you understand. When do I get to meet the young lady in
question?”

Rory let the Irish lilt of the reverend’s voice wash over him, relieved that he hadn’t refused to

considertheideaofarushedmarriageinhischurch.“That’suptoyou,sir.Icanbringherdownoryou
cancomeuptotheranch.We’restayingatChance’splaceuntilourhouseisrenovated.Placeisprettyrun
downasit’sbeenemptyforyears.”

“I’dlovetoseeherdownhereifyoudon’tmind.Perhapsshecancomeandbringthelittlemanwith

hertomorrow?WecanhaveacoffeeintownandIcanshowherthechurchandseeifit’swhatshehasin
mindforherwedding.StJamesmaynotbetoherliking.”

“Howcouldshenotlikeit?It’stheprettiestchurchformilesaround.”
“I appreciate that, Rory. Regardless, we’ll have coffee in town. Don’t want to go scaring the dear

girl.”

“Thanks.Iknowshe’dappreciatethat.”
“Tell me, Rory. What are the chances of you mending fences with your dear father? I know he’s

missedyouandaweddinginthefamilywouldbetheperfecttiming,don’tyouthink?”Thepriestlooked
athimkeenly.

“I visited him the other day. Seems things were not as we were led to believe when we were

younger.”

“Nowisn’tthatalwaystheway?Youhavetounderstand,he’sachangedmannow.I’msurehe’ssorry

forhisbehavior,buthedoesn’tdeservetolosehissonsoverit.Healreadylostsomuchwhenyourdear
motherdied.”

Rorysatwithhishandsclenched.Hehadbeenpreparedtoforgivehisfatherbecauseheknewhowhe

felt losing the love of his life, and he didn’t know how far Chance would go with mending the fences
betweenthem.Thatwouldbebetweenthetwomen.“Iagree,andI’mdoingthebestIcan.”Hestoodup
andheldouthishand.“I’llgetGinatocomeintomorrowandhaveachatwithyou.Thanksforeverything,
Reverend.”

“You’reagoodman,Rory,andyou’llmakeagreatfathertotheweelad.TellyourbrotherChanceI’d

likeawordwithhimsometimesoontoo,willyou?SeemslikeImissedhisweddingandthatsaddensme
greatly.”

Roryswallowedagrinandstoodup,shakingthefather’shand.Heputhishatononcehestrodeoutof

thelittlechurchandheadedacrosstheparkandbacktowork.Whenhewalkedintotheoffice,hecalled
theranchtotellGinathenews.

“Thankgoodness.I’vebeensoworried.”HecouldhearFisherchattinginthebackground.
“Toldyouwe’dfixitsomehoworother.Onceyou’vemethim,youcanstartorganizingthewedding.I

havetoleaveituptoyouandCallietoarrange,I’mafraid.Ihavemyworkcutoutformewiththehouse
renovationsandthingshereattheoffice.”

“Idon’tneedaflashywedding,Rory.Justfamilywillbefine.”Heheardhersighovertheline.“And

I’mmorethanhappytomovetothecottagenow.Icandealwithbuildersworkingaroundus.Besides,I’ll
beonhandtodosomeoftheworkmyselfandthatgardenneedsalotofhoursinit.”

“Gina,we’vetalkedaboutthis.Ifwekeepoutoftheirway,therenovationswillgofasterthanhaving

toworkaroundus.Andyoudon’thavetokeepprovingyourselftome,wetalkedaboutthis.”

“IknowbutI’mnotusedtosomeonelookingafterme.Itgoesagainstthegrain.”
“Get used to it and it works both ways. I’m not used to having someone there for me, either.

Regardless,itmakessensetoletthebuildersgetonwiththejob.”

“IknowbutIwanttobeinourhome,justthethreeofus.”
“That’showIfeeltoo.”
“IfeellikeI’mbeinglazyhereatChance’splace.It’slikeI’vebeenhandedanewlifeonaplate.”
“Andthatgratesonyou,doesn’tit?”
“Yesitdoes.IfTysoncanthinkI’verippedyouoff,hewon’tbetheonlyoneintowntocometothat

conclusionandwiththecourtcaselooming,well,I’monedge.Plus,Callieisdoingherbesttoorganize
me.WantstotakemedressshoppingtomorrowsinceIdon’thaveanythingatallsuitable.”

“Nowthatsoundsgood.YoucangoinandseeReverendDavis,thendropFisherofftome.Whatdo

yousay?Icanusemylittlesidekicktobustthelocalcriminalsandstoplittering.”

“It’llworkoutgreat.Can’twaittoseeyoutonight.”

FOLLOWING

DAY

shewasabundleofnervesonthetripintotown.

“Stop fretting. You’ll be fine, I promise. I’ll come to the church with you and then we can drop off

FisherwithRorywhileweshopupastormatMarriedinMarietta.”

Gina’s nerves were on a knife’s edge by the time Callie parked the car in front of the little white

church. But this was what she wanted when she answered Rory’s ad so why was she scared now?
Probablybecauseyoulovehimandhavesomuchtolosenowwhereasbeforeyouwerestillfighting
forwhatyouneeded.

“Ohmygoodness,it’ssopretty.”Herfuturesister-in-lawclimbedoutofthecarandstoodlookingat

StJamesChurch,hermouthopenwideasshetookinthebeautifuloldrestoredbuilding.

“RegrettingtheLasVegaswedding?”GinawatchedherasshereachedintotakeFisherfromhisseat.
Her head whipped around and she frowned at Gina. “What? No, no way. It’s just not what I would

havechosenifitwasleftuptome,that’sall.AndIloveoldplacesandthisisbeautiful.Reallyquaintand
pretty.”

Ginahitchedherboyupontoherhipandshutthecardoor.“Itislovely,isn’tit?”
Callieturnedandfrownedather.“Wouldyourathergetmarriedherethanatthecottage?”
“IfIhadthetimetodoitthewaywewantedto,yesIwould.Ithasanicefeeltoit,youknow?”She

walkedoverandstoodnexttoCallie.“Thehouseislovelyandall,don’tgetmewrong,havingtorush
thingslikethisseemssodamnedunfair.IalwaysimaginedIwouldgetmarriedinaprettylittlechurch
justlikethisonewithabigfluffywhitedresslikeaprincessandhavemyfathertogivemeaway.”She
gaveastrainedlaugh.“Well,that’snotgoingtohappennow,isit?”

CallieleanedoverandslippedherarmaroundGina.“Aw,honey,solongasyougetmarriedtothe

man of your dreams, who cares. I know what you’re thinking and lots of girls want the traditional
wedding.IthoughtIwouldtoo,althoughIwouldn’tchangewhatIgotfortheworld.”ShesqueezedGina
tight.“It’llbefineontheday,you’llsee.”

Ginagavewobblysmile.Shedidn’twanttocorrectCallie.Itwasnothavingherfatherheretogive

herawaythathurtthemost,notthechurchalthoughthathadapartinittoo.“Let’sgoandmeetReverend
Davisshallwe,thenwecangivethisyoungmantoRoryandgoshopping.”

Togethertheywalkedtothedoorandpeekedinside.Thesunshonethroughintothevestryanddown

theaisleofthesmallbuilding.Ginaledtheway,hershoestappingoutapatternonthepolishedwooded
floors.

“Hello.”
Shelookedintotheshadowsofthepulpitandblinked,lettinghereyesadjusttotherainbowofcolor

fromthestained-glasswindowsinsidethechurch.

Adoorclosedandtheylookeduptoseeanoldergentlemanwithgreyhairwalkingtowardthem.“You

must be Gina. I’m Reverend Davis.” He hurried down to meet them, holding out his hand in greeting.
“AndthismustbeyoungFisher,it’sapleasuretomeetyou.”

HeglancedpastGinatoCallie.“Andwhohavewehere?”
“CallieWatson.”Sheshookhishand.
“Oh,you’llbeChance’swifethen.”Helookedather,hisheadtiltedtooneside.“I’vebeenwanting

tocatchupwithyoutwo.Congratulationsonyourmarriage.I’msorryImissedit.”

“Ohright,well,wegotmarriedinLasVegas.Kindofarushedthing.”
“Suchalovelyaccent.You’renotfromaroundherethen?”Hesmiledandledthemdownthefrontto

sitinapew.FisherwriggledandGinalethimdown.

“No.IwasborninAustralia.”
“Nowthatsoundsinteresting.I’veoftenthoughtofvisitingthere.Wemustchataboutitwhenwehave

time,itallsoundsveryexciting.”HeplacedahandonFisher’sheadandwasrewardedwithabigtoothy
grin. “So young man, your mama is getting married. That’s very special, Gina. Rory told me of the
circumstancesandhowthingshavedevelopedbetweenthetwoofyou.”Hecasthiskeeneyesonher.

“Right.” She twisted her fingers together, striving for calm. “Sadly we have to do it in a hurry to

appeasecertainpeople,andthatcan’tbehelped.Itwouldbenicetogetmarriedinyourchurch,although
wehavealmostdecidedtogetmarriedatChanceandCallie’sranchbecauseofFisher.Rorywouldlike
youtomarryusthough.I’llunderstandifyoucan’tdothat.”

“I’m not saying that at all, dear girl. I told Rory I wanted to make sure you were both well suited

whichiswhatIdoforallmyweddings,regardlessofwherethey’reheld.IfIthinkyouare,wecangeta
licenseandgoahead.NowisthereanyreasonwhyIwouldn’tmarryyou,doyouthink?”

GinalookedtoCallieforhelp,takenabackbythequestion.“Ium,look,tobehonestIreallydon’t

know.Iknowhewillprovideforusandhe’salreadyagreatfatherfiguretoFisher.”

“What about you, child? What is he to you?” Father Thomas looked at her, a small semblance of a

smileonhislinedface.

“Well,hehasquicklybecomethemanI’vefalleninlovewith.Iguessyouknowthestoryanyway,he

waspreparedtogiveusahomeandhisnamewithoutmeetingmeinperson.Ifigurethatalonemakeshim
a nice guy with our wellbeing at the forefront.” She looked down at her hands, twisting the small ring
around on her finger. “We fell in love though. It was pure and simple. He makes me very happy and I
knowhefeelsthesameway.”

Thefathersmiledandpattedherhand.“That’sallIneededtohear.I’dbehonoredtomarryyouboth

wherever you see fit. Now, how would you like to join me in a cup of coffee? I know just the perfect
placetocelebrate.”Hestoodup.“You’llhavetogetalicenseofcourse.Thatshouldn’tbetoodifficult
and then you can let me know what date you have planned. I’m sure Rory can arrange that through the
courthouse himself, and they can give it to you on the same day as long as you have the correct

paperwork.”

“I’m pretty certain we have everything we need.” She reached for Fisher’s hand, holding the little

fingers in hers. “A coffee sounds wonderful. I’ve been a bundle of nerves this morning worrying about
everything.”

ReverendDavisledthemoutofthechurchandacrossthestreettotheJavaCafé.Theysettledoutside

inthesunatasmalltableandordered.

“Nowtellme,ladies,haveyoumetyourfather-in-lawyet?”
CallieandGinasharedaglance.“No,wehaven’t,butI’mopentotheideaevenifChanceisn’t.”
“Goingagainstyourhusbandalready,Callie?”
ShesatupstraightandGinasmiled.Shewassoeasytostirup.“Notatall.Webothhavedifferent

ideasofwhatisacceptableandwhatisn’t,isall.Ilostmyparentsinanaccidentandbelieveme,ifitwas
onlymymotherwho’ddiedandDadhitthebottle,Icouldunderstandit.”Calliegaveasmallsadsmile.
“I’dprobablydothesamesoIhavenoreasonnottofeelforChance’sfather.”

“Andyou,Gina.Doyoufeelthesameway?”ReverendDavisglancedather.
“Yes,IsupposeIdo.Idon’tremembermymother.DadwasthereformewhenIneededhimuntilhe

passedaway.I’dgiveanythingforhimtobebackwithusnow.”

“Well,I’mpleasedtohearit.IknowJockwouldlovetomeetupwithyousomaybeIcanarrangethat

sometime.”Thewaitressbroughtoutcoffeeandplaceditonthetableinfrontofthem.“Thankyou.Now,
doyouthinkyou’llbeinvitinghimtothewedding,Gina?”

ChapterNineteen

“D

YOU

WANT

himtherethen?”RorywatchedherfaceasshehandedFisherover.

“Ithinkit’dbenice,don’tyou?Imean,ifmyfatherwasherehecouldgivemeawaybuthe’snot,soI

thoughtmaybe…”

“Ifthat’swhatyouwant,Ihavenoobjectiontoit.Youmightwanttomeethimfirstthough.Wecango

andcallinonhimoncewegetthelicensesortedout.IwanttotellChancefirstsohedoesn’thaveafit
overit.”

“Hesaidhewouldtry.”
“Iknowhedid,itwouldbepolitetoforewarnhimaboutitthough.Justthinkitwouldbeagoodidea

isall.”FisherpluckedatthebadgeonRory’sshirt,drooldrippingdownhischin.

Ginareachedupandwipedupthedribbleswithatissuebeforethrowingitinthebin.“Poorlittleman

isteethingagain.Ifhestartstofrettoomuch,callmeandI’llcomebackandgethim.”

“We’llbefinewon’twe,youngbuddy?”HekissedGinaonthelipsandwinkedatCallie.“Youladies

havefunandbuysomethingstunning.Mybrideisgoingtolookincredibleonherweddingdayregardless
ofhowmanypeoplearethere.”

“Shewill,trustmeonthatone.”CalliesmiledandgrabbedholdofGina’sarm.“Comeon,wehave

shoppingtodo.Seeyouguyslater.”ShewavedandpulledGinaoutoftheoffice.

“Ihavenoideaofwheretostartfirst.”Ginalookeddownthestreetbothwaysandsighed.
“Well,ifyougodownthere,youhavethedressboutiqueandtheyhaveamixofallkindsofclothesor

gorightdownthestreettothebridalshop.Ithinkthat’syourbestbet.Ifweheadtheotherwaythere’sa
cutelittledressshop,Ihaven’thadachancetogoinandlookyet.”

“Bridal shop it is then.” Gina hooked her arm through Callie’s and they hurried down the street. “I

havenoideawhatI’mgoingtobuy,noideaatall.”

“Let’swaitandseewhattheyhaveandwecanseewhattakesyourfancyfirst.”Shelaughed.“I’mso

notagirlygirlsoyou’vepickedtheworstpersonpossibletogodressshoppingwith,Itellyou.”

“No,Ihaven’t.You’remyfriendandIvalueyouropinion.AndIknowyou’lltellitlikeitis.”They

bothburstoutgigglingoverCallie’strademarksaying,lighteningthemoodandsoothingGina’sfrazzled
nerves.

MarriedinMariettastoodoutamongsttheothershops.Basketsofflowerssoakedupthesunonthe

path in front of the large bay window. They stepped through the open door into a feminine room filled
withmannequinsdisplayingdressesinsoftcolorsandawidevarietyoffabricsandstyles.Thesmellof
vanillafilledtheshopandsoftmusicplayedinthebackground.

“CanIhelpyou,ladies?”Apetitesalesassistantwalkeduptothem.
“She’sonthehuntforaweddingdress.”
“Lovely,I’msureIcanhelpout.I’mLisa,bytheway.”
“Hi.ThisisGinaTaylorandI’mCallieWatson,Chance’swife.”
“Iheardhe’dbroughtbackabride.Sonicetomeetyouboth.Now,whatexactlyareyoulookingfor?

Ashort,long,oreveningtypeofdress?”ShestoodwithherhandsclaspedinfrontofherwaitingforGina
toanswer.

“Um,looktotellthetruth,Ihavenoidea.I’llknowitwhenIseeit.”Sheglancedaroundandfound

herself sadly overwhelmed by the dresses on display. “I’m sorry I’m not much help. It’s going to be a
smallweddingathomesonothingtoooverthetop.”

“Letmeseewhatwehaveinyoursizethen.I’mguessingasix?”
“Yes.”
“Right,yougointothedressingroomandI’llstartbringinginthedressesIthinkmightbesuitable.We

cantryeverydressintheshopifyoulike,untilyoufindwhatyou’reafter.”

Calliepushedhertowardthebackoftheshopandintothedressingroom.“Strip.”Shestoodatthe

doorandwaitedforthefirstdresstoarrivebeforehandingitovertoGina.

“Whatdoyouthink?”Ginagazedoverhershouldertoseehowthebacklookedandpulledafaceat

herreflection.

“Nah, not you. If it was, you would know right away. Here’s the next one.” She passed in a frothy

bundleofbabybluetulleandsteppedback.WhenGinawasdressedsheeyeditcritically.“Nope,next
one.”

Gina was desperate for a drink of water by the time they’d gone through eleven different dresses.

“Thisisreallypretty.”Calliehandedheracreamdresswithawideflowingskirtoflaceandthinstraps
overtheshoulders.

Awaveofreliefrolledoverher.Thiswasit,thedressshewantedtogetmarriedin.Ginastepped

intoitandpulledthestrapsupoverhershoulders.SheturnedtothemirrorasCalliedidupthezipperfor
her.Thecolorbroughtouthighlightsinherdarkhair,andshetwirledtogettheeffectofthewideskirt.

“It’syou,isn’tit?”
“Yes.”
“Thatlooksreallypretty.Ithoughtitwould.”Lisastoodatthedoorclaspingherhandtoherheart.“I

loveitwhenIseetherightdressonsomeone.”

“Howmuchisit?”Ginareachedforthetag,butCalliequicklyturneditoversoshecouldn’tseeit.
“Ihaveinstructionsthatyouaren’ttoknowthatpart.”
Ginadidn’ttrytoarguebecausesheknewitwouldbepointless.
“Howaboutshoestomatch?Ihavesomelovelystilettosthatcolor.”Lisahurriedoutandcameback

withacoupleofdifferentsizesforGinatotryon.

Bythetimetheyhadthedressandshoespackagedup,Ginawasmissingherlittleboy.SheletCallie

use the credit card Rory had given her to pay for the purchases while she looked the other way as
instructed.Ifthatwasallittooktomakehernewbestiehappy,itwastheleastshecoulddo.

Theywalkedbacktowardthesheriff’sofficetocollectFisher,relaxedandhappythatthetwothings

ontheirlisttodayhadbeenachievedwithoutspillingbloodorhavingtobeg.

TheyfoundRorystandingonthestepswatchingthepassersby,chattingwiththelocals.Fishersatsnug

inhisarmstakingitallin.WhenthegirlsarrivedFishersquealedandreachedforhismother.Shepassed
herparcelstoCallieandtookherson.“HowisMama’slittleman?Beenworkinghard?”

“Yeah,hesurehas.Beencharmingtheladieslikeyouwouldn’tbelieve.”Roryleaneddownandgave

herasmolderingkiss.

“Takingafteryourdaddyalready.”
Rorygrinnedandpuffedouthischest.“Beenshowinghimathingortwo.Littlefellaisakeenlearner.

So,Iseebytheparcelsthatyouhadasuccessfulshop.”

“Yeswedid,thankyou.IhavemydressandshoesandCallieevenmademebuynewunderwear.”

Shesighed.“Andshewouldn’tletmeseehowmuchmoneyIspenteither.”

“Getoverit,Gina.It’sforyourweddingdaysomakethemostofit.”
“Exactly what I said when I told her to go with you.” Rory winked at his sister-in-law. “You don’t

needtoknow.Wegotthelicensetoo.ShouldbereadytopickuplatertodaysoI’llgetitonthewayhome
andthenwecansetthedate.”

Ginaclosedhereyesforamoment,blinkingtoclearhermind.
“Youokay?”Roryhadhishandonhershoulderandlookedintohereyes.
“Yes.Itjustgotreal.SillyofmeIknow.Beforeitwasapossibility,nowwehavealicenseanda

dress.”

“Andshoesandsexyunderwear.”Callienudgedherarm.“Andnowwehavetoorganizethefoodand

youknowhowgoodIamatthat.”

“Callintothediner,askforPaige.I’msuretheycanputtogetheraspreadoffingerfoodorsomething.

Ifshecan’tdoit,I’llcalltheLongRiverCookhouseandtalktothem.You’renotdoingit,ladies.You’re
havingthedayofffromcooking.”

“Icandothat,though.”Ginawatchedhelplesslyasherfuturehusbandandsister-in-laworganizedthe

restofthewedding.CallieofferedtodealwiththeflowersaswellandsuggestedanewsuitforFisher.

“Heshouldbedressedthesameasyou,Rory.Showmewhatyou’rewearingandI’llgetontoit.”
“There’snoholdingyouback,isthere?”HerenthusiasmmadeGinapaleasmorenervessetin.
“Gotta make up for what I missed out on. Not saying it wasn’t fun or anything, but there’s a big

differencewithElvismarryingyouandthatguyacrossthestreetwiththeIrishaccent.”

“Whataboutyourfamily,Rory?Doyouwanttoaskthemtocome?”Ginaknewtheywereallclose,

andthenextyoungestbrother,Evanwasstilllivingawayfromthetown.Shewantedtogivehimtimeto
comeaswell.

“I’llcall,butIreallydon’tthinkwehavethetimetowaitaccordingtoLayla.Don’tworryaboutit.

It’s not the end of the world. Getting married to you and making a home for this little man is more
important.”

“Yousaythesweetestthings,RoryWatson.IsitanywonderI’mheadoverheelsinlovewithyou?”

ChapterTwenty

ORY

WATCHED

THE

girlsdriveawayandheadedbackintohisoffice.Hehadapileofpaperworktosift

throughbeforetheendofthedayandneededtogetstuckintoit.Hepouredamugofcoffeeandsatdown
at his desk, reaching for the first task. The phone ringing startled him and he glanced at his watch. For
overthreehourshe’dbeensittingathisdeskandthesorenessinhisshoulderscouldattesttothat.

Rorypickedupthephone.“DeputyWatson.”
“Hey,Rory,it’sLayla.ListenIwanttorunsomethingpastyoubeforeIcallGina.”
“Sure,Iappreciatethis.She’skindofflusteredovertheweddingatthemoment.”
“Okay,here’sthething.IwentinwithgunsblazinglikeIsaidIwould.ThewayIseeit,andIhope

youagree,isthatAdenbasicallyusedherasameanstoanend.Notaprettythingtosaybutthere’sno
pointbeatingaboutthebushhere.Iwanttowinthisbeforeitgoestocourt.”

“Iagree.Dowhatyouhavetodotobringthistoaclose.”Heleanedbackinhischairandclosedhis

eyeslisteningtothelawyer.

“Right, so I had a meeting with the other side’s lawyers. I know them from different cases and we

managedtohaveafairlyhonestchataboutitall.Ididpointoutthatshewastheinnocentpartyhereand
hadnoideawhatAdenwasuptoorwhohewas.Hisdriver’slicense,whichthepoliceheld,provesthat
he was using another name.” She took a breath. “I also pointed out that with the evidence we have,
includingGina’sdrugtestwhichcamebacknegative,theydon’thaveacaseworthdraggingthroughthe
courts.It’sfairlyobvioushewasdoingeverythingtogetawayfromhisfamilyandthatisn’therfault,and
Irefusetoletthempunishherforthat.”

“Thankgoodnessforthat.Didtheyagree?”Hepinchedtheskinbetweenhiseyes,hopingthiswould

turnoutright.

“NoandIdidn’texpectthemtoo,either.Wehavetoplaythegamehere,it’showit’sdone.Whatthey

did offer is this: visiting arrangements in the holidays and alternate Christmases if she agrees to hand
Fisherovernowwithoutdraggingitthroughcourt.”

“What?Noway!”Hisstomachclenched,hegrippedthephonetight.“That’sridiculous.Nowaywill

eitherGinaorIagreetothat.”

“Notyourcall,Rory.I’monlytellingyouthisbecauseyouaretheonethathiredmeinitially.Ihaveto

puttheoffertoGina.”

“Icantellyouwhatshe’sgoingtosay.Canyougivemeadayortwototrytosortsomethingouton

myend?Therehastobeawaytostopthis.Idon’twantherupsetmorethanshealreadyis.”

“Notexactlyagoodidea,Rory.”
“Please,Layla?Ihavesomethinginmindthatmayhelp.It’sworthashotatleast.”
“Fine,then.Givingyou48hourstogetbacktomeandthenIhavetocallher.”
HepickedupthephoneandcalledChance.
“Brother,Ineedtocallinanotherfavor.Meetmeforacoffee?”
AcoupleofhourslaterhesatattheJavaCaféwithChanceandrelayedhisconversationwithLayla,

gettingthesamereactionhe’dgivenlawyerwhentheofferhadbeenputforward.

“Look,youhaveplentyofcontactsstillwiththemedia,right?”
Chance tilted his hat back and nodded his head, raised his coffee to his lips. “What were you

thinking?”

“IwantsomeonetostartdiggingdeeperintoAdenandhisreasonforleavingdearoldmomanddad,

changinghisname.TherehastobesomethinginthereLaylahasn’tfoundorshewouldhavesaidso.”

Chancegrinned.“I’llseewhatIcando.Leaveitwithmeforadayortwo.”
ItonlytookChance’scontactslessthantwelvehourstogetbacktothem.Thebrothersmetdownatthe

barnthenextmorningbeforeRoryheadedofftowork.

“Seemsdearolddadhassomeskeletonsinhiscloset.FromwhatIcangather,hiswifewasprepared

to overlook his ‘outside activities’ to keep her marriage together. Aden didn’t approve.” Chance patted
Sultanonthenose.

“Hmm.IwonderwhatLaylacandowiththat?”
ChancesmiledatRory.“Itsoundstomeasthoughtheyliketheirprivatelifetostaythatwaybecause

thiswasburiedquitedeep,accordingtomysource.IdoubttheywouldlikeustoairitsoIsuggestyouget
ontoLaylathismorningandgiveherthegossip.She’sprettysavvy,she’lluseittoouradvantage.”

“Icertainlyhopeso.Gina’sabundleofnerveswonderingwhattheirnextmovewillbe.”Herubbed

hishandoverthebackofhisneck.

“Tell me to mind my own business but it won’t make any difference. Are you sure about this? You

reallydowanttomarryher?Idon’twantyoutoregretitoncethedeedisdone.”Togethertheywalkedout
ofthebarnandstoodwatchingthecattlegrazinginthepaddock.

“Ifyou’daskedmelastweek,ImighthavesaidIcouldgoeitherway.”Rorypickedapieceofgrass

andshreddeditwithhisthumbnail.“IcarriedaroundsomuchguiltwhenCindydied.Iknowitwasn’tmy
faultbuttomywayofthinking,Iwasstillhereenjoyinglifeandshewasn’t.”

“Enjoyinglife?That’sacrockofshitandyouknowit.”Chancetippedhishatdownoverhiseyesand

lookedoutathiscattle.

“YesIdonowbutthatwashowIfeltatthetime.Ittookalottogetmeoverthatandifitwasn’tfor

GinaandFisher,I’dprobablystillbemopingaroundfeelingsorryformyself.Theygivemeareasonto
liveandIknowCindywouldagree.”

Chanceslappedhimontheback.“Good.NowgoandringLaylaandgetherontoit.”
Roryreceivedaphonecalllaterthatafternoon.He’dbeenontenderhooksalldaywaiting.“Whatdid

theysay?They’lldropthecase?”

“Idon’thaveananswertothatyet,althoughtheyhavestipulationstobeginwithwhichIthinkarefair

enoughunderthecircumstances.Fisheristheironlylivingrelative,andasmuchastheymightbehurting
overallofthistheyarestillhisgrandparents.”

“Whatdotheywant?”Rorysatup,listeningintently.
“Their lawyer is suggesting a meeting of sorts to start with so I’m not sure how far this has been

discussed with their clients yet. Obviously they want to see him and meet Gina. I set down some
guidelinesforthemtoworkwithandleftitintheirhands.Hopethat’sokaywithyou?”

“They’vegotanerveafterwhattheyjusttried.Havetheyagreedtodropthecaseyet?”
“Look,Rory,Iunderstandhowyoufeelaboutwhattheytriedtodoandyouneedtotryandlookatit

fromtheirsidetoo.Ifitwasyourchild,wouldn’tyoupulloutallthestops?”

Rorytookadeepbreathandcheweditoverinhismind.“Possibly.Thisisn’taboutme.So,havethey

agreedtodropthecaseornot?Youhaven’tansweredmeyet.”

“Notyet.Ithinktheywantedtoseewhatyousayfirst.Andthat’sthereasonIleftitwiththem.I’m

kindabankingonthemrealizingthatit’spointlesstodragthisthroughcourtwiththemediacircusthatwill
surroundthemanyway.ImadeabigdealoutofthefactthatAdenhadrejectedhisfamilyandtheirwealth.
I hinted to the lawyer that we understood the reason he rejected his family is because of his father’s

affairs.Beinginthepositiontheyare,Idoubtthey’llwanttheirgoodnamedraggedthroughthepressif
there is another way we can all come to an agreement.” She paused for breath. “I also pointed out that
you’dbothprobablybemoreopentoFishergettingtoknowhisgrandparentsiftheydidn’ttreatyoulike
theenemybecause,attheendoftheday,GinaandFisheraretheoneswhohavebeenharmedinallof
this.Theydidn’tagreebutnordidtheydisagreewhichisagoodthing.Whatdoyouthink?”

“True,wewould.Look,Ihavenoobjectionsatthispoint.IwanttorunitpastGinatonightandlether

knowwherewe’reatsodon’tworryaboutcallingher.Onthesametoken,Idon’twanttogetherhopes
upaboutthecasenotgoingtocourteither.Howsureareyouthatitwon’thappen?”

“Pretty sure, but even though their lawyers and I think it’s the best way to go, doesn’t mean they’ll

agree.Thesepeoplelosttheirsonandfoundhisbabyinthesamebreath.Theymaywanttogothewhole
hogandinsisthebepreparedtotakeovertheirbusinessinterestswhichwillbehisright.Theyhavethe
ability to offer him a life with way more benefits than Gina does. Who knows what will happen? I’m
hopingtohaveananswertomorrow.SoonasIdo,I’llletyouknow.”

“Thanks,Layla.Appreciateit.”Roryputdownthephoneandstaredatitforsometimemullingover

herwords.TonighthehadtomakeuphismindwhethertotellGinaortoletthingsrideandgiveherthe
goodnewswhenandifithappened.

Before he left for the day, he decided to call his brother and see if they could get home for his

wedding.HelookedinhisphoneforthenumberforEvan.Hepushedthedialbuttonandwaitedforan
answer,keentospeaktohimforthefirsttimeinyears.Itwentstraighttovoicemail.Roryswallowedthe
waveofdisappointmentandleftamessage.“Hey,Evan,it’sRory.Givemeacall.IhavesomenewsI
wanttosharewithyou.”

By the time he’d driven up the road to the ranch that evening, Rory decided it was only fair to tell

Ginawhatthelawyersaid,regardlessoftheoutcome.Hecouldtryandprotectherbutattheendofthe
daythisconcernedherandwasherdecision,nothis.Thiswasallaboutherandherchildthoughsoshe
hadtherighttoknow.Thebesthecoulddowasbethereforherifitallwentcrazywrongandtheyended
upincourtanyway.

ChapterTwenty-One

“S

ERIOUSLY

? T

HEY

MIGHT

drop the case?” She stood with hope coursing through her body, aware that

Rorywastryingtotellhernottocountonit,butitwasalltoomuchtodreamabout.

“Yes,wemightfindouttomorrowbut,honey,don’tgetyourhopesup.Theymaystillwanttogofor

full custody. But what I’ve told you is what Layla and the other lawyers have agreed would be in
everyone’sbestinterests.Theyhavetoconvincetheothersideofthatyet.”

She threw herself into his arms, breathless with the possibility of not having to fight for custody in

court.GinaclungtoRory,unabletobelieveitcouldturnoutsowell,desperatelyprayingitwashowit
wouldendup.ShehadnoproblemwithmeetingAden’sparentsandlettingFishergettoknowthemso
longasshegottokeepherbaby.

RaisedvoicesintheotherroommadeGinawince.“I’msorry.Iforgottotellyouyourfatherishere.

Chancewasn’ttoohappyaboutiteither.”Sheshuddered.“Thisisallmyfault.”

Roryheldherclose.“Honey,noneofitisyourfault.Hewentofftherailswhenourmotherdiedand

Chanceisprobablyhavingahardtimeforgivinghim.Iunderstandallthat.”

“Whataboutyou?”
Helookeddownintohereyes.“Isawhimtheotherdayactually.ThoughtitwastimeIaskedhimfor

thetruthaboutwhatChancedid,youknow,supportingusandall.”

Ginareachedupandwipedawaythefrownonhisforehead.
“He told me the truth and I can’t keep being bitter at him over it. I almost did the same thing when

Cindydied.OnlythingdifferentwasIdidn’thaveanykidstotakeitouton.”

“IfLaylahadn’tsaidChancehadtomakeupwithyourfathertohelpFisherandmeout,thiswouldn’t

behappening.”

“Yeah,itwould,eventually.HadtobesortedoutsoonerorlaterbecauseIwanthimtogettoknow

youandourson.Familyshouldsticktogetherthroughthickandthin.Hemadeamistakeandnowit’stime
todealwithit.”

ChanceraisedhisvoiceagainandRoryhurriedintotheotherroomwithGinarightbehindhim.Jock

stoodgazingoutthewindow,hisbacktohiseldestson.RoryandGinacametoahalt,watchingthings
unfold.

Chancetriedtosmileatherbeforeheturnedbacktohisfather,butitcameoffratherstrained.“I’m

sorry you think that way, I did the best I could for everyone involved.” His father turned around and
steppedforward.

“Whichiswhyyouneedtostopnowandthinkaboutyourself.Youweretheseboys’fatherforfartoo

longandItakefullresponsibilityforthatasI’vealreadytoldyou.Youneedtothinkaboutyourselfand
thatprettylittleladyupstairs.Stoptryingtohelpeveryoneincludingme.”

Chancesnortedandgotafrownfromhisfatherforhistrouble.
“Youcantakethepissoutofmeallyoulike,son.IknowIscrewedupandweallknowwhy.I’ve

saidI’msorrysomanydamnedtimes,toyourbrothersandnowtoyou.IwantbackinyourlivesandI
wantyoutoletmebeyourfatheragain.IfthatmeansIgettotellyouhowIseeit,sobeit.”

“What’sgoingon?”Rorylookedbetweenthetwoofthem.
“Comeswaltzinginhereactinglikemyfatheraftereverythinghedid.”Chancethrewhishandsupin

theair.“Wantstocomeandhelpmeoutbecausehe’sworriedaboutmyhipallofasudden.”

“Andthat’swrong,why?Pleasefillmeinhere,brother.”Roryraisedaneyebrowandwatchedhim.
Chanceglaredathim.“BecauseIcandojustfinebymyself,that’swhy.”
“You helped me when I needed it, Chance. Give me the courtesy of doing the same for you.” Jock

glancedbetweenhistwosons.

FootstepssoundedonthestairsandCalliecamedownwithFisheronherhip.“You’resofullofit,

Chance.Iknowyou’restillinpainatnightafterabigdayandyouwon’temployanyoneelsetohelpout,
evenwhenyoutellRoryitwasmethatdoesn’twantmorestaffhere.Ithinkit’sagreatideatoletyour
dadcomeanddosomeworkontheranch.Mightgiveyouandmealittlebitmore‘us’time,don’tyou
think?”

GinatookFisherandlookedonasCalliewalkeduptoherhusband.“Youalreadyknowmyopinion

onforgivingyourfather,andyoupromisedtodoittohelpoutwithFisherandGinatoo.Whatyouneedto
doisdoitforyourselftoo,pal.”

“Idon’tneed—”
“Wealldowhetherweadmititornot.Lietoyourself,Chance,justdon’teverlietome.”Sheleaned

upintohischestandplacedachastekissonhislipsbeforeturningtohisfather.

“Hi,mynameisCallie.WhatdoIcallyou?Pop,Dad?”
“Jock.CallmeJock.”Hisfacebrokeoutintoasuddensmileandheheldouthishand,takinghers.

“You’vedonewell,son.She’slikeyourmom,feistyandsoverypretty,too.”

Chancewatchedtheplaybetweenhisfatherandhiswife,andRorysawthetensionslowlyleavehis

brother’sshoulders.“Youdidn’ttellmeyouwerestillinpain.Ithoughtitwasallgoodnow.”

“Itis.JustsomedaysitachesmorethanI’dlike.”
Rorynoddedhishead.“Fairenough.Um,so,Dadisofferingtohelpyououtontheranchthen?”
Chancewalkedoverandspokeinlowtones.“Yeah.IdidpromiseGinaandLaylaIwouldhelpby

bringinghimbackintothefoldsotospeak,anditlooksasthoughmydarlingwifeismakingsureIdon’t
gobackonmyword.She’sannoyedIwon’thireanymorehelp.EverytimeshetalksaboutitIchangethe
subject.”

“Look, I won’t hold you to it, Chance, although it was lovely of you to offer in the first place. We

mightnotneedtogotocourtanyway.Hopefullywe’llfindouttomorrow.”

“No, it’s okay. It’s time I guess and I understand now why he did it. Just don’t expect me to be all

heartsandrosestostartwith.He’snotgettingawaywithitthatdamnedeasy.”Chanceambledoverand
placedhisarmaroundhiswife’sshouldersasshespoketohernewfather-in-law.

Rory stood watching the three of them. He looked down at Gina and winked. “Best we get into the

conversationtoo,then.”Hesteppedforward.“Dad,IwantyoutomeetGina.AndthisishersonFisher.
We’regettingmarriedassoonaswecanarrangeit.”

JockturnedawayfromCallieandhisfacelitupevenmore.Rorynoticedthewobbleofhisbottomlip

andthesheenoftearsinhiseyes.“HowdidIgetsolucky?”

ChancemutteredunderhisbreathandCallieelbowedhiminthestomach.
JocksteppedawayfromhiseldestsonandwalkedtowardGina,holdingouthishand.Hestoppedand

heldhisfingeroutforFishertograb.ThelittleboyreachedoutandtouchedJock’sfinger,hiseyesonthe
olderman.Whentheytouched,Fisherlaughedandtuckedhisfaceintohismother’sneckbeforepeeking
athisnewgrandfatheragain.

“It’sdelightfultomakeyouracquaintance,GinaandFisher.I’msogladyoudecidedtomovetoour

littletown.”

“It’snicetobehere,Jock.Andit’sverynicetomeetyouatlast.Canyoustayfordinner?”

“Well,guessingyou’dbetterbeaskingChancethatquestion.It’shishouse.”Jockturnedtohimand

foundhimbusykissinghiswife.

“I’msurewe’dalllovetohaveyoustay.”Rorysawhisbrotherlookupandthetwingeofasmilein

the corner of his mouth. His brother wasn’t as unhappy as he was making out. Now was his chance of
standingbackandmakingthemostofhislifewithCallieinsteadofworryingthathisbrothersneededall
hehadtogive.

Jockgrinned,winkingatGina.“HowcanIrefusesuchaheartfeltoffer?It’llgivemetimetogetto

knowallofyou,especiallythisyoungmanhere.”

“W

ELL

LET

getbacktothekitchenandgetsomevegetableson.It’sroastchicken,biscuits,andgravy

tonight.”ShehandedFisheruptoRoryandleftthemtoit.Hurryingintothekitchenshegrabbedatissue
from the counter. There was so much happening at the moment, her emotions were all over the place
whichwassounlikeher.Givingintoaquickemotionalhit,sheblewhernoseandthrewthetissueinthe
binbeforewashingherhands.Ginacleanedapileofpotatoesandcutthemintowedgestotuckaroundthe
chickentogarneralltheflavorshecould.ShewaschoppinguppumpkintoaddwhenCalliewalkedinto
thekitchenandleanedonthecounter.

“ThatwentbetterthanIthoughtitwasgoingto.”
“Didn’tit?IwassurprisedChancegaveinthatquick.WhenIheardtheshoutingIthoughtallhellwas

goingtobreakloose.”Ginawalkedovertothefreezerandtookoutapacketoffrozenpeas,thenputthem
intoasteamer.

“Hehastoacttough,it’sjustwhoheis.Heavenforbidheletsonhewantstogettoknowhisfather

again.Thatwouldn’tdohistoughguyimageanygood.”Calliepouredherselfaglassofwateranddrank
itdown.

“Doyoureallythinkhedoes?Imean,afterallhe’ssaidabouthisdadandnotwantingtogetinvolved

again.”Sheputthelidonthepotandplaceditonthestove.

“Well, he said the other night that it would be a shame for his own kids to grow up without any

grandparentsatall,andhisdadistheonlyoneoursaregoingtohave.”Sheshruggedhershoulders.“I
guessthatmadeanimpactonhimandhethoughtbetterofit.”

“That’slovely.I’msopleasedforthem.NowIjusthavetowaitandseeifFisher’sgrandparentsare

goingtobeaseasytoplease.”Ginapulledaface.

“Whatdoyoumean?Spillit,kid.”
“LaylacalledtodayandtoldRorythatshehadameetingwiththeotherside’slawyers,andbasedon

theevidenceofmydrugtestandwhattheycouldfindoutaboutme,theyfeelIwasaninnocentbystander
caughtupinallAden’sdrama,whichasIsaidallalongisthetruth.Ifitwasn’tforhimtryingtodistance
himselfawayfromhisfamilyforwhateverreasonhedid,theywouldhaveknownabouthisproblemsand
usaswell.”

“Ofcoursetheywould,andtheycouldhavehadarelationshipwiththepairofyou,too.Insayingthat,

youwouldn’tbeherenowandthatI’dmiss.”Calliesmiled,watchingGina.

“Yes.Everythinghappensforareasonandeventhoughitwashard,I’mgladitturnedoutthisway.I

haveawholenewfamilyandIcouldn’tbemorethrilled.Nowwejusthavetowaitandseeiftheyagree
withthelawyersoritwillbeon.”

“Surely they don’t want the press to get hold of this? I mean, it would make them look pretty bad,

wouldn’tit?”

“That’s what I keep thinking. I’d be more than happy for Fisher to get to know them, but there’s no

way they’re taking my baby.” Gina pushed back the anxiety that rose in her throat at the thought of
someonetakingFisherfromher.

“Bringiton,Isay.Theydon’tknowwhatthey’reinforiftheypursueitthroughthecourts.”

ChapterTwenty-Two

ORY

STOOD

WITH

Gina on the porch and watched the big black car come slowly up the driveway. He

couldhearherbreathcominginshortsharpgaspsandhedidhisbesttosootheherwithahandonher
back.

“I’msoscared.”
“Don’tbe.They’renormalpeoplelikeyouandme,justloadedwithmorecashandassets.”
Theshinycarpulledtoahaltinfrontoftheporchandthedriverjumpedout.Hedonnedhishatbefore

openingthepassengerdoor.Hehelditwideandleanedintohelpoutthepassenger.Apetitemiddle-aged
ladydressedinanimmaculatedove-graysuit,hergoldenblondehairsweptupintoatightbun,slidout,
herhandonhisarm.Theoppositedooropenedandadistinguishedgentlemansteppedout,andwalked
aroundtostandwithhiswife.Oncetheymadeeyecontact,Rorysteppedforward.

“Mr.andMrs.Bellingham.Welcometotheranch.I’mDeputySheriffRoryWatson.”
“Yes, I assumed you were.” Mrs. Bellingham gave him a perfunctory smile, looked past him, and

focusedonthebaby.SheliftedherchinandbrushedpastRorytowardwhereGinastood.Whenshegot
within a few feet, she stopped and stared at Fisher. Rory and Mr. Bellingham followed and he stood
beside Gina again, his hand on her arm in support. “He’s the picture of our Aden at that age, isn’t he,
Richard?”Shelookedatherhusbandasifaskingforconfirmationthenglancedbackatthebabyagain.

“Ithinkyou’reright,mydear.Hello,Ms.Taylor.It’sverygoodofyoutoallowustovisitandmeet

thisyoungmanafterallthedramawe’vecausedyou.”Hekepthishandonhiswife’sarmasifthecontact
wouldhelp.

“Call me Gina. It’s a pleasure to meet you both and even though it wasn’t the best beginning in the

world, we do understand. Would you like to come inside and have a coffee? I made cookies this
morning.”

Mrs. Bellingham glanced at her husband and then back at Gina. “If you’re sure it’s no bother, we’d

lovethat,thankyou.”

Gina led them inside and handed Fisher over to Rory who guided them into the lounge and offered

theirvisitorsaseat.TheysatoppositehimtogetheronthecouchandgazedatFisher,looksofwonderon
theirfaces.“I’lljustbeamoment.Feelfreetolookaround.”

“Oh,IthinkIcanseeallIwanttofromhere,thankyouverymuch.”Shesqueezedherhusbandhand

andsmiled.“Ican’tbelievewe’rereallyhereandseeingourgrandsonforthefirsttime.”

“I’m sure Gina didn’t plan it that way either.” Rory had no intention of letting these people get the

betterofher,nomatterhowmuchmoneytheyhad.

“Oh,pleasedon’tmisunderstandme,Deputy.I’mexcitedasyoucanimagine.Whenwefinallyfound

outAdenwasdead,ourworldcrumbled,didn’tit,Richard?He’dbeenmissingforsolong,yousee.”

“I’msureyoucanunderstandthat.Youonlywantwhat’sbestforyourchildbutthingsdon’talwaysgo

according to plan.” Mr. Bellingham looked uneasy as he stood up to take the tray from Gina when she
walkedbackintotheroom.Heplaceditonthesmalltablebythewindow.Onceshehadservedeveryone
coffeeandcookies,shesatdownonthearmofthechairnexttoRory.

“I was just saying to the deputy here that you might wish for the best for your child although that

doesn’talwayshappen.”Mr.Bellinghamsippedhiscoffeebeforecontinuing.“AdenrebelledasI’msure

youknowbynowandIthinkyouknowpartofthereasonforthat.Idon’tfeelweneedtodiscussthat,its
personalandnobody’sbusinessbutmywife’sandmine.”Heclearedhisthroatandlookedbackatthem.
“ButbacktoAden.Hewasalwaysachallengingchild.Hestumbledthroughcollegeandthenstartedto
changesomehow.Therewasalotofpressureonhimasfarashecouldsee,andIdon’tthinkhewasquite
ready for it. He knew that he would one day take over the companies and it didn’t sit well on his
shoulders,allthepressureanddecisions.”Hepattedhiswife’shandwhenshesniffedbackasob.“We
understoodhowhefeltanddecidedtolethimhaveabreakasitwere.WhenIwashisage,myparents
gavemeagapyearandthenIknuckleddowntobeginmycareer.Ipromisedhimhecouldhavetwelve
months to sort himself out and live like a normal teenager before we took him into the company and
groomedhimtotakethereins.”

Hiswifeclearedherthroatandspoke.“Hethreatenedtoleaveusforeverotherwiseandtherewere

other threats as well, childish outbursts that only intensified as he grew older. We couldn’t bear the
thoughtoflosinghim,sowegavehimwhathewanted.Weneversawhimagain.Afterallthepromisesto
keepintouchwithus,heneverdid.”

“I’msorry,trulyIam.IknewhewastroubledbutIdidn’tknowwhy.”Ginabrokeacookieinhalfand

gaveittoFisher.“IwasverylonelywhenImethimandIthinkweweregoodforeachother,atleastat
firstanyway.”

“Ifounditveryhardtobelievehewouldturntodrugsandwehavetoapologizeforwhatwassaid

betweenthelawyers.Isupposeanyparentwouldn’twanttobethecauseoftheirchild’sproblems,andto
blamesomeoneelseismucheasierontheego.”

“Look, I can understand that, and even though I hated what you thought, I don’t hold it against you.

Afterseeingmyfatherhitrockbottomduetodrugs,it’sthelastthingI’ddo.”SheleanedintoRoryfor
comfortandheslidhisarmaroundherwaist.ShewasbeingverybraveaboutthismeetingwithAden’s
parents.Ashe’dheldherlastnightshehadn’tsleptworryingaboutwhatcouldhappentoday,howthey
wouldreacttoherorhowupsettingitcouldgetforthemall.Hehadalmostcanceledthemeetingbecause
shewassonervous.

“Anyway,thereasonwe’rehereistogettoknowFisherandyoualso,Gina,ifyou’llagreetoit.We

havelosttimetomakeupforandwe’renotgoingtomissoutonouronlygrandchild’smilestonesinlife.”
Sheglancedatherhusbandagain.“Ihopeyoudon’tholdgrudgesbecausewe’resoexcitedandwantto
spend a fair bit of time coming to visit if that’s alright with you both. That’s if we can come to an
agreement,thatis.”Mrs.BellinghamsmiledencouraginglyandRoryfeltsorryforher.

“Um,sure.Idon’tseeanyreasonwhynot.Idon’thaveanyotherfamilyapartfromRory’sbrothers

andfather,soitwouldbenicetoseeyou.That’sokay,isn’tit,honey?”Ginalookedathim,uncertaintyin
hereyes.

“Whatever makes you happy. It’ll be nice for Fisher to have plenty of family. And please call me

Rory.‘DeputySheriff’isabitofamouthfulallthetime.”

Theirvisitorsseemedtorelaxatthisstatementandthetensionlefttheroom.
“I’msogladyoubothfeelthatway.We’vebeenontenderhooks,haven’twe,Richard?Imean,after

tryingtotakeyoursonfromyou,wedidn’tthinkyou’dbeopentousvisiting.Ourlawyerswantedusto
goinpreparedtofighttothedeathforFisherwhenwefoundoutaboutAdenbutwedecidedafterhearing
thereportthatitwouldbewrongofustodothattoyou.Weputyouthroughaterribletime.”

“Yesyoudidbutweunderstand.You’vebeenthroughahorribletime,too.”
“Yeswehave.Especiallymydearwifehere.Shewasterrifiedthinkingitwouldn’tpossiblyallcome

together.It’sbeenhardsinceAdendisappearedandtofindouthehaddiedwasdevastatingbutthefact
he’dleftachildbehindwasthebestnewswe’vehadallyear.”

“H

DID

YOU

findouthewasgone?”Ginaheldherbreathandhopedshewasn’tbringingupsomething

thatshouldstayinthepast.

“Whenwecouldn’tfindhimandheneverreturnedhomeaftertheagreedtimeoff,wehiredaprivate

investigator.Nothingturnedupuntilwerememberedhelikedtocallhimselfbymymother’smaidenname
whenhedidn’twantanyonetoknowwhohewas.Hehadn’tdoneitforyearsandwe’dalmostforgotten
aboutit.Anyway,thepoliceletusknowwhathappenedandthatinturnpointedusinyourdirection,Gina.
Youroldboardinghousefriendtoldusyou’dpackedthecaranddriventoMontanatostartanewlife.”

“Isee.”Sheclearedherthroat.“Howisshe?Doyouknow?”
“WeeasedherburdenfinanciallywhenwefoundoutshewasinvolvedinhelpingwithFisherwhen

hewasbornsoyoucouldwork.Poorthingwasbesideherselfandtriedtorefusebutifnotforher,we
may never have found either of you. She did ask if we caught up if we would pass on a message from
her.”Mrs.Bellinghamopenedherpurseandtookoutacrushedenvelope,risingtopassitover.

Ginatookitandputitonthechairbesideherforlater.
“Thereissomethingelsewebroughtforyoutoo.Ihopeyoudon’tmind,wewantedtotrytomakeup

forwhatyou’vebeenthrough.”HehelduphishandwhenGinatriedtostophim.“Pleaseletmespeak.If
we’d known about you and Fisher to start with, you would have been well looked after, instead you
broughthimintotheworldinpovertyandwecan’tforgetthatandwhatyou’vegonethrough.Attheendof
theday,wefeelresponsible.Thisinnowaybuysanythingfromyounoristomakeyoufeellikeyouowe
ussomething,youdon’t.Itisn’tabribetoletusseeFishereither,Ijustwantedtomakethatveryclear.”
Heclearedhisthroatandhiswifereachedforhishand.“ItismerelyAden’slifeinsurance,whichwefeel
is rightfully yours anyway. If we’d known about you, it would have been yours earlier considering you
were together and had a child.” He stood up and took a small black folder from his jacket pocket, and
handeditover.

GinalookedatRorybeforetakingit.Henoddedhisheadandshelookedatthebankbook.Whenshe

openedittothefirstpage,hereyeswentwideandsheshookherhead.“Ican’ttakethis.”

“Gina,pleasebesensible,mydear.”Richardleanedforward.“Ifyouhadbeenbroughtintothefamily

whenyouhadFisherandAdenhadn’tdied,youwouldbeincrediblyrichbynow.It’safactofourlife
whichweneedyoutounderstand.We’rewealthyandsomeofthatmustgotoyouandourgrandson.There
isnooneelseforustoleaveitto.Whenwepasson,Fisherisgoingtobeaverywealthyboy.”

“I don’t want your money. That’s not why I said you could come here today.” She glanced at Rory,

panicstartingtosetin.

“Weknowthat,mydear.Ifwethoughtotherwisewewouldn’tbehere.You’llhavetogetusedtoit,

I’mafraid.ThereareopportunitiesforFisherthatyoucouldn’tpossiblyimagine.”

“Idon’twantyoutotakeovermyson.Whatifhewantstobeacowboylikehisuncleorasherifflike

hisfather?”Shelickedherlipsandglancedatherbabyboy.“Whatifhedoesn’twantyourmoney?”

“Then that is his decision to make when he’s of age, my dear. I will make sure that a management

committee is in place to guide him or take over if he decides corporate life is not for him.” Richard
looked between Gina and Rory. “The main thing is this, I want you both to be taken care of and have
everythingyouneed.”

“Icansupportmyfamily,thanksanyway.”Rory’sshoulderstiffenedanditdidn’tgounnoticedbythe

Bellinghams.

“Weknowthat,Rory,andwearen’ttryingtotakeoverorstandonyourtoes.Iwanttomakesurethat

if, for any reason, Gina or Fisher need anything at all, they can have it. Put the money away and don’t
touchitifyouwant,Gina.Justknowthatit’sthereasasafetynet.”

“Thankyou.Iappreciateit.”GinatookthesoggycookiefromFisherandwipedhisfingers.Whenhe

wriggledtogetdown,Rorylethimgo.Thelittleboylookedathismotherbeforeholdinghishandoutto
hisgrandparents.

“It’sokay,baby.Youcangoandsayhello.”
Arabella and Richard sat with their gazes locked onto Fisher as he tottered over toward them,

gurgling and spitting out unintelligible words as he went. He reached them and pointed his pudgy little
fingersathisgrandmother’sgoldbracelet.Sheheldituplethimfiddlewiththecharms.Afteracoupleof
minuteshisinterestchangedtothebeadsaroundherneck.Fisherheldhisarmsout.“Upup.”

ArabellalookedatGina,tearsinhereyeswaitingforpermissiontoliftuphergrandson.Ginasmiled

atherandwipedawayatearofherownbeforeslidingdownintoRory’slaptowatchhersongettoknow
hisgrandparents.

Epilogue

“A

YOU

SURE

that’swhatyouwant?”RorystaredatGinaovertheirmorningcupofcoffee.“Wecanget

marriedtomorrow,youknow.Ihavethelicenseandyouhavethedress,andshoes,andsexyunderwear.”

She smiled at him, a serene smile that wasn’t possible for her before. Now with her future firmly

plannedoutwithnohiccupsorcourtcasescomingherway,GinawasarelaxedwomanandRorylikedit
thatway.

“Well, we could go ahead and get married now but there’d be something missing and I don’t think

that’sfair.Iwantallofyourbrotherstobehereforyou.Ithinkit’simportant.”

“Areyousure?”Hereachedforherhand.“Imean,Chancemanagedtogetahalfaconversationina

fewdaysagowithEvan,buthegotcalledtoanemergency.Hemightnotcallbackfordaysorweeks.”

“I’msure.We’retogetheranywaysoitdoesn’tmatter.AndnowFisher’sNanaandPopdon’twantto

dragusthroughcourt,wecantakeourtime.”

“DidIhearArabellasayshewantedtocometothewedding?”
Ginasmiled.“Yes,youdid.Ihopeyoudon’tmind.They’resoveryeasytogetonwith,Iseriously

don’t know what Aden’s problem was with them. Their personal life should be just that, personal.
They’rethesweetestthingsandthey’regoingtobeabigpartofourlifesoI’mmorethanhappytohave
themthereontheday.”

“Youdidn’thavetolivewiththem,hedid.Ifyou’resureit’swhatyouwanttodo,I’mfinewithit.

Don’tthinkyou’reputtingthisoffforverylong.Iwantaringonyourfinger,mydarlinggirl.Thesooner
thebetter.”

“As soon as you nail down all of your brothers to be here at the same time, we’ll do it; and if you

don’tmind,I’dreallyliketogetmarriedinthatlittlechurchintown.It’ssoverypretty,Rory.”

“Foryoumylove,anything.YourescuedmefromalifeoflonelinessandI’llbeforevergrateful.Ifall

ittakesisadateatStJameschurch,youhaveit.”

TheEnd

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AbouttheAuthor

AftermovingtothelushgreenwineregionofAustralia’sHunterValley,Annhastheperfectsurrounding

toletherimaginationtorunwild.Shealternateshertimebetweenwritingwesternromances,women’s

fictionromanticandplayinginhergarden.

TwokindsofheromakeAnntoamassofnerves.Thehotcowboywithaslowsexydrawl(sheusedto

liveoutinthedesertandenjoyedeveryminute)andamaninakilt.(ImagineJamieFraser)Shecan’twait

tovisitScotlandwhereshecangetherfillofthetartancladhottiesfor,umresearchpurposes,ofcourse.

Inthemeantime,herdearhusbandputsupwithhertalkingtohercharactersandgettinglostinworldsonly

shecanimagineasshebattlestobringstoriestothepageforeveryonetoenjoy.

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Document Outline

Title Page
Copyright Page
Table of Contents
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Seventeen
Chapter Eighteen
Chapter Nineteen
Chapter Twenty
Chapter Twenty-One
Chapter Twenty-Two
Epilogue
The Watson Brother series
About the Author

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