Page 23 of A Cowboy Home for Christmas
“The water park,” Clara says at the same time Lark says, “The arcade.”
“I think we could squeeze both in today,” I say.
“Plus, bowling?” Lark asks.
“And ice cream.” Clara makes loud licking and slurping sounds.
“Definitely ice cream.” I squeeze her in a bear hug. “I saw an ice cream bar with sprinkles and chocolate chips and whipped cream.”
“I want extra chocolate chips,” Clara says.
“I want a mountain of whipped cream.” Lark spreads her arms wide apart.
We all laugh before settling back into silence. Early morning and late nights are the only time when the girls aren’t wired with a thousand questions and stories. The rising sun casts a tangerine glow on the mountains and stretches upward into the sky.
“Every sunrise brings a new day.” I whisper the words my ma engrained in me from young.
“New thoughts,” Clara says.
“New strength,” Lark adds.
It’s clear my ma has passed her wise words to her grandchildren.
Lauren’s eyes meet mine. “New possibilities.” The positive way she says it gives me a spark of hope. We’re on the same page. Moving forward together.
We sit outside for a few more minutes of silence, when Clara tips her head up to me. Her brown eyes are the same shape as my brother’s. “Why were you gone so long?”
“I had to take care of some things.”
“Are you leaving again?” Clara asks, and Lark adds, “after Christmas?”
I shake my head. “I’m not going anywhere.”
“What about riding?” Lark spits the word out, like she’s no longer a fan of the sport. I’m sure it has everything to do with her dad.
“I think I’m hanging up my riding boots and buying a pair of ranch boots.”
“You don’t live on a ranch.”
“No, but I plan too.” My gaze lands on Lauren. She doesn’t shy away the way she would’ve yesterday. There’s a spark of something in her eyes. Optimism. Hope. Thrill. Hell, I know there’s loads to talk about, but this is the start we need.
“You’re going to buy a ranch?” Clara squeals loudly in my ear.
“Whose ranch? Where? Close to us?” Lark is equally excited.
“Whoa now, hold on. I just got home. I’ve gotta find the ranch that suits me best.” I have my sights on their ranch.
“We can help.” Lark points at Clara.
“Yes,” Clara agreed quickly. “We know all the ranches. And what to look for in a ranch.”
Lark finishes her sentence. “And what not to look for.”
“Settled,” I announce. “You two are in charge of finding me a ranch.”
“Yay!” They cheer. Lark’s tummy growls.
“Who wants pancakes for breakfast?” Lauren kisses the side of her daughter’s head.
