Page 64 of Landon

Thurston stood, wrapping his arms around his wife with a gentle strength. “I think we’re finished here,” he murmured, his voice carrying a profound relief. “Sitting with the kids for a while will be good.”

Stan also took to his feet and thrust his hand out, once again shaking both Noel’s and Landon’s hands. “If you follow my mom and dad, we’ll be pleased to have you join us.”

As Landon and Noel rose to follow, Landon’s hand found the small of Noel’s back once again. At that moment, a silent promise passed between them, grounding her, anchoring them both as they stepped out to join the family, ready to share in the joy of being safely home.

Soon, they were gathered around the spacious, sunlit kitchen table, the atmosphere infused with warmth and the scent of freshly made food. The kitchen was modern but cozy, with soft wooden cabinets, polished countertops, and a large window that framed a stunning view of the backyard. Beyond, the sprawling ranch stretched out, with mountains towering in the background, casting their peaceful shadows over the land.

Even though he’d eaten on the plane, Landon realized how hungry he was. Margaret had prepared a perfect meal of roast beef and sharp cheddar sandwiches on homemade sourdough, creamy potato salad, vibrant fresh fruit, and slices of golden, flaky homemade pie. He devoured his plate, glancing up to see Penny and Tad doing the same, their spirits visibly lifting with each bite.

He sat across from Noel, initially disappointed not to be beside her, but now grateful for the view. She was eating very little, though she kept her smile bright, effortlessly drawing laughter from the children and calming Margaret’s frayed nerves. Still, he noticed the dark circles beneath her eyes, theoccasional flicker of strain behind her smile. She was running on pure will, and he could feel her exhaustion in his bones.

He wanted to suggest they leave, but Margaret had requested a private moment with Noel after the meal. The kids, full and a bit more relaxed, begged to see their horses, and Stan invited Landon to join them on a short walk to the barn. He hesitated, reluctant to leave her even for a moment, but Noel looked up and gave him a warm, genuine smile. With a wink and a promise in his eyes, he turned and followed Stan and the children outside.

It was heartening to see Penny and Tad in their familiar surroundings, shedding some of the tension of the past days. But he was still restless, his thoughts always drifting back to Noel. After a short while, he saw her and Margaret emerge onto the deck, and without a second’s hesitation, he returned to her side.

Then came the farewells, filled with handshakes, tight hugs, and murmurs of gratitude. When it was time for Penny and Tad to say goodbye, both kids clung to him, their eyes misty with tears.

“Remember,” he whispered softly to each of them, “I couldn’t have asked for better companions on this rescue. One day, you’ll look back and remember your strength, not your fear.”

Tad managed a shaky smile, squeezing Landon’s hand with surprising firmness, while Penny wrapped him in a sweet, lingering hug. Noel had her own heartfelt goodbyes with each of them, her voice tender, her words comforting. Together, they walked toward their vehicles, flanked by the family who’d watched over them with pride and love.

Landon stood at her door once Noel had slid behind the wheel of her small SUV. He noticed her glance, a hint of something unspoken in her eyes. He leaned down and whispered, “Just follow me.”

They drove down the long ranch road, and as they reached the large wooden sign marking the entrance to Fugate Ranch,he pulled over, parking beneath the shadow of the sign. She stopped behind him, stepping out with a curious smile as he came around and wrapped her in his arms. They stood there for a long moment, silent, their embrace deep and wordless as they let the weight of the last few days melt away.

Finally, she leaned back, her eyes soft as she looked up at him. “I’m so glad you did this, Landon. I hated the thought of such a public goodbye.”

He smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her cheek. “Noel, no way was I letting you go without a moment alone.”

They stayed wrapped in each other’s arms, savoring the closeness, until he looked down, his gaze tender. “I know you’re exhausted, but you were incredible back there. Just what everyone needed. I hate that you have to drive home alone, as tired as you are.”

She shrugged, a hint of a playful smile returning. “You have a longer drive than I do.” She laughed, shaking her head. “Although, I have no doubt your stamina’s a bit better than mine right now.”

He resisted the urge to make a teasing remark about exactly how long his stamina could last with her. Instead, he let his thumb gently trace the back of her hand as he spoke his true intention. “I’m going to follow you back to your place.”

Her eyes widened slightly, surprise mixing with gratitude. “Landon, you don’t have to. I don’t want you to go out of your way?—”

His voice was gentle but insistent. “I just want to make sure you get home safe. Please, let me do this for you.”

She laughed, wrapping her arms around his waist, her smile lighting up her face. “If a gorgeous man I happen to like very much offers to see me home, I’d be crazy to say no.”

He bent down, brushing a soft kiss across her lips, savoring the simple, sweet moment. “Good to know.”

“I'll pull in front, and you can follow me.”

He continued to nibble on her lips, mumbling, “Can't wait to have you in my arms again.” With that, they climbed into their vehicles, and with a lighter heart, he followed her down the road.

28

Noel pulled into her apartment building's parking lot, and a thrill ran through her as she watched Landon stop in one of the visitor spots. For the entire drive, she’d had to resist the constant urge to check her rearview mirror, ensuring he was still behind her. And now, here he was.

How has this become my life?she wondered. For a professional dedicated to children’s rights, her world had been full of courtroom battles and advocacy. But somehow, in the past few days, she’d been swept into an alternate reality—a world of security specialists, high-stakes danger, threats, and a one-night stand that, it seemed, wasn’t just for one night.

Now, she had no idea what to expect.Would he want to come in? Would he want to stay for a drink?She let out a soft laugh at herself, thinking of her “drink” options—just water, orange juice, diet soda, or a local pale ale.

Before she could overthink, he was there beside her door, smiling in that quiet, reassuring way. She fumbled for her purse, grabbing her phone as she stepped out.

“I'll get your bag,” he offered, reaching in the back seat to grab her small overnight case and lifting it with ease.

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