Page 15 of Rancher's Healing

Our crowd cheered as we turned to look at them. Jake wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me tightly to his side. “Girls, come stand in front of us.” I said, looking at them. Libby stood in front of Jake, and Skyla in front of me. The flashes were almost blinding, and my stomach flipped when Sky reached for my hand and clung to me.

This was my family, and I couldn’t picture anything I wanted more.

* * *

Night fell over the ranch, and we were warmed by a bonfire. Gathered in a circle with our loved ones was perfect. “When we were little, we used to end Thanksgiving around a fire much like this one. Everyone would say something about what they were thankful for, so tonight I’d like to start that tradition again.” Kipp said as he took a seat beside his wife. “Mom, since you’re the matriarch of this crew, why don’t you start?”

She was sitting across from me, and I could see her eyes glisten. “I’m thankful for this year. It’s been trying in some ways, but so wonderful in many more. My kids are all in one place, I’ve got grandkids galore, and my children have picked wonderful spouses. And I have a wonderful partner.” She reached for Phil’s hand, and he kissed her knuckles.

As everyone spoke what they were thankful for, I felt my dad’s presence wash over me when it was my turn. “I guess you know what I’m thankful for.” I laughed as I gripped Jake’s hand. “But I’m also thankful for Dad. I don’t want to make this sad, but I’m thankful for the legacy he left, the type of man he was, and I’m so thankful he taught me how a man should treat his wife. He’s who I measured every man to, and I’m so grateful I found one that embodies those same morals.” Leaning over, I kissed Jake again. “I love you,” I whispered.

“I love you too.”

We sat around the fire, and people started filing out when they were ready to leave. Once there were just embers, Jake’s parents went to start their car.

Jake, the girls, and I huddled together. “We’ll see you two in a few days,” he said to the girls as we wrapped our arms around their shoulders.

“I’m going to miss you both so much,” I said, squeezing them.

“We’re only going to grandpa and grandmas,” Skyla said.

“I know, but I’m kind of used to you being around.” I laughed as she wiggled out of my hug.

“You two have a nice few days alone. Plan to stay for supper when you pick the girls up,” Jake’s mom said as she hugged me. “We’re so happy to welcome you to the family, Tayla. Thank you for loving my three.”

“They’re easy to love, Mrs. Gordon.” I smiled, still a little awkward around his parents.

“Tayla, it’s Eleanor.” She smiled and ushered the girls to the car.

Jake walked up behind me, wrapped his arms around my waist, and pulled me back to him. Waving as the girls left, he kissed my neck, nibbled on my earlobe, and let a hand travel down my abdomen. “Are you ready to go home, wife?” Pressing against him, I felt how ready he was to get home.

“Yes, husband, take me home.” I pressed my ass against him, and he groaned.

“We might not make it home.”

“I’m sure the loft is free.” I said, as I turned to look at him. Jake grabbed my hand and pulled me toward the barn. Laughing, we barrelled through the door, and Jake turned and pressed me up against it, his mouth devouring mine.

We didn’t make it to the loft. An empty stall was where my dress fell and we made love for the first time as husband andwife. “I’m too old for concrete floors and straw,” Jake said as he rolled off me and caught his breath.

“So let’s go home, have a bath, and crawl into bed?” I traced my finger over his chest.

“That’s the best thing I’ve heard today. Let’s go.” He sat up and we got dressed. Peeking out the door, we ran hand in hand to his truck.

“Good night, Tayla.” Kipp called from his front porch.

“Night, Kipp.” I yelled back, trying to stifle my laughter. Jake and I got in the truck and broke into hysterical laughter.

“He’s going to start locking that barn,” Jake said as he pulled away from the yard.

“If he does, it won’t be the first time I’ve broken into it,” I said as I slid across the bench seat and sat beside my husband.

“What don’t I know about you, Mrs. Gordon?” Jake asked as he ran his hand up my thigh.

“I can’t reveal all my secrets at once. What fun would that be?” I rested my head on his shoulder, and we drove home with the radio playing old country songs.

EPILOGUE

TAYLA

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