Page 8 of Shoshone Sun

“As ready as I’ll ever be,” Peter replied, summoning up his courage and mounting his horse the way his uncle had demonstrated. He was determined to learn everything he needed to about this new and refreshing land. “Let’s go.”

The two rode toward the area Paul had previously scouted out. As they traveled, Peter felt a sense of freedom wash over him. The wide-open spaces were a stark contrast to the cramped confines of the farm back in England. The rolling hills and expansive sky felt like an invitation—a chance to build something lasting. For the first time since the idea had been brought forward, Peter was one hundred per cent confident that this venture was really going to work!

Back at the homestead, Susan settled into a routine that filled her with purpose. After breakfast, she joined Mary in the garden, tending and then harvesting and storing the vegetables. The early October sun warmed her skin, and she reveled in the earthy smell of the soil.

“Look at this!” Mary exclaimed, pulling up a handful of red radishes. “They’re thriving!”

“They are beautiful,” Susan agreed. As they worked, they chatted about everything from the challenges of farming to the joys of family life. Mary shared stories of her early days on the homestead, her voice filled with laughter. Susan felt a bond forming between them, and it was comforting to have a friend during this transition.

Later, she took a moment to walk through the garden alone, admiring the bright marigolds still blooming alongside the vegetables. It was a peaceful oasis, and she often found herself lost in thought, imagining the life they would build here.

When she returned to the house, she found Jane helping Mary prepare lunch. “What can I do to help?” Susan asked, eager to contribute.

“Could you chop these carrots?” Mary requested, handing her a small basket.

As she worked alongside Jane, Susan stole glances at her sister, who seemed more thoughtful than usual. “What’s on your mind?” Susan asked, concerned.

“I’m just thinking about how different life is now,” Jane replied softly. “It feels both exhilarating and overwhelming at the same time.”

Susan nodded, understanding her sister’s sentiment. “It is a lot to take in. But we will make it work. We’re together, and that’s what matters.”

In response, Jane put her hand on her sister’s. “I’m so glad to be here with you!” she said.

After lunch, Jane decided to explore the property. She wandered toward the creek that bordered Paul’s homestead, its gentle chatting soothing her thoughts. The sunlight filtered through the trees, casting spotted shadows on the ground. She found a quiet spot to sit, listening to the sound of water and the rustle of leaves.

As she sat there, memories of Fred flooded her mind. She remembered their walks in the meadow, the way he’d smile at her, the plans they had made together. But those memories now felt like distant echoes, overshadowed by the reality of her new life. She had come to America to escape heartache, yet here she was, carrying that ache with her.

Still, the pain seemed to be fading every day, little by little. Just as Susan had predicted that it would.

After a while, she made her way back to the cabin, feeling slightly lighter. She found Mary and Susan preparing supper, the kitchen filled with the comforting scent of herbs and roasted vegetables. “Can I help with anything?” Jane offered.

“Could you set the table?” Susan suggested, her eyes brightening.

“Of course,” Jane replied, her heart lifting at the simple act of contributing.

As they worked together, the atmosphere in the cabin became warm and inviting. Laughter bubbled up between them, and for the first time since their arrival, Jane felt promising confidence about the future. They were building something new together, and perhaps, in time, the pain of her past would fade.

Later that day, after returning from the land he had decided to claim, Peter couldn’t wait to share his experience with his family. The area was breathtaking—an open meadow surrounded by trees, with a gentle slope leading down to the river. He could already envision a house there, a place filled with memories.

When he arrived home, Susan and Jane were in the kitchen. The warmth of the hearth wrapped around him like a comforting embrace.

“You won’t believe the land I found!” he exclaimed, a grin spreading across his face.

“What was it like?” Susan asked, her eyes lighting up with curiosity.

“It’s perfect,” Peter replied, his excitement intense. “There’s a clear river, plenty of flat land for farming, and the trees provide a natural boundary. I can see our home there, and I know we can make it thrive.”

Jane looked up from where she was sitting with some mending, her interest piqued. “It sounds wonderful, Peter. You must be thrilled.”

“I am! And I can’t wait to get started. With hard work, I know we can build something special.”

As they sat down for dinner, the conversation flowed easily. They talked about their hopes for the land, their dreams of a future filled with laughter and love. Paul joined them, adding his insights and encouragement. “You’re going to need a lot of determination, Peter, but I believe in you. This land has potential.”

Peter felt a swell of gratitude for his uncle’s support. “Thank you, Uncle Paul. It means a lot to have you by my side.”

After dinner, as the family gathered around the fireplace, Peter could sense a shift in the atmosphere. Excitement hung in the air as they discussed plans for the future.

“When do you think we should start building?” Susan asked, her eyes shining with eagerness.

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