Page 198 of Ransom

"And you do it so well." I press a kiss to her temple. "Though I kind of wanted to see what you'd do to them if they actually tried it."

"Trust me," she says with a wicked smile, "they really don't want to find out."

57

CONNIE

The evening breeze carries the scent of wood smoke as Tess steers her golf cart toward the gathering. I grip my cane, ready to make my way to the fire. I never thought I would enjoy these nights as much as I do. But I love these kids, and all the little ones running around. I love being included in their joy.

"Look who's here!" Colton jumps up from his spot, reaching to help me down from the cart, then leans over and drops a kiss on Tess’s cheek. “Hiya, Nan.”

"I can manage, dear." But I let him escort me to the fire anyway. This one acts like a buffoon more often than not. But he's bright, so bright.

And so very kind.

The flames cast dancing shadows across familiar faces as everyone calls out hellos. Janey waves from her perch on Jonas's lap. Micah waves, a sleepy Holly nestled against his chest. I remember how exhausted I was with little babies. I had help of course, but I still woke up with my boys every night.

I miss them so much I ache.

They say time dulls the pain, and I suppose that’s true. But I still miss my sons every single day.

"Mrs. McCauley, right here." Ransom pulls up a cushioned chair next to where he and Blair sit hand-in-hand.

"Thank you, sweetheart." I settle in, joints creaking less than usual in the warmth of the fire.

My gaze drifts across the circle where Tess has joined her granddaughter Cadence and Maverick, her face glowing with contentment. It’s so lovely that they get to spend so much time together.

I miss my grandsons every day. Though admittedly I’m less lonely than I used to be. Spending my time here has helped heal some of my wounded heart. Who would have thought my lonely evenings in Chicago with just my puppies would transform into this? Before Nick started dropping by for tea and cookies, I was very alone. Now I have more family than I know what to do with.

"Can I fix you a plate, Connie?" Ransom gestures toward the spread of food on the picnic table.

"No need, dear. Nan and I had dinner before we came." I pat his arm. "But I do have something to discuss with you both."

Blair leans forward, firelight catching the planes of her face. Such a strong woman. Truly striking. In my day, a woman like her would be called big-boned. People in my day were fools. Blair is lovely, and her strength, both physically and mentally, makes her a formidable woman.

"I've been thinking of relocating here permanently." The words feel right as they leave my mouth. "I would keep my apartment, of course, but I would live with Tess most of the year."

"Really?" Ransom's eyebrows shoot up. "What about your company?"

"The company runs itself these days. I have good people in place." I straighten in my chair. "Actually, that's part of what I wanted to discuss with you."

Blair starts to rise. "I should give you two some privacy?—"

"Sit right back down, young lady." I catch her hand. "This concerns you too. You know, I was married to Arthur for thirty-two years. We were partners in everything—life, love, business. When I look at you two, I see that same connection."

Blair's fingers thread through Ransom's as she settles back beside him. Yes, just like Arthur and I were. The way they move in sync, finish each other's thoughts. Some might call me a foolish old woman, but I know true love when I see it.

"Arthur and I built McCauley Steel together. Every decision, every victory, every setback—we faced it as one." I lean forward, my voice firm. "That's what marriage should be. A partnership."

"That's wonderful you had that," Blair says quietly. "Not everyone does."

"I know, dear. I don't take it for granted." As always, thinking of my Arthur makes me a little misty. I smooth down my blue slacks and gather my emotions. This is a business discussion, after all. No need for tears.

"Is something happening with your company? Do you need some help?" Ransom asks.

He's such a good boy. He understands family and responsibility. That's what makes him the perfect person for this.

"I'd like to discuss the possibility of selling you my company."

---