Page 95 of A Cowboy's Claim
“That’s dramatic,” Jake muttered.
She glared at him. “Cindy contributed to the destruction of a community landmark where dozens of bake sales, harvest dances, and memorable bachelor auctions have been held over the years.” Tansy paused. “Oh. And also, Sydney almost died.”
“Thanks for putting that priority list in order,” Sydney deadpanned.
“Anytime.”
Jake held up a hand. “The police have it handled. They confronted Cindy and she confessed. Which means community service and a serious dent to her reputation. Plus, a strict order to stay away from Sydney.” Jake shrugged. “About as much as the law can do. Bottomline, there will be no more fire-starting rags in her future.”
“That explains the terrible smell when I grabbed the gear,” Sydney said thoughtfully. “I never did go back and recheck later because of my ankle.”
“I’m shocked Cindy confessed,” Declan admitted.
A rude noise escaped Tansy. “Probably realized it was that or wait until Petra tracked her down and kicked in her front door.”
“I could still do that,” Petra offered then winked. “But I’m trying to be the calm, mature version of myself now that I’m going to be a mother. Again.”
Sydney blinked. “Wait, what?”
Petra grinned, her eyes sparkling. “Yeah. We’ve been waiting for the right moment to tell you guys. But yes—I’m pregnant.”
The room exploded.
Tansy leapt to her feet, arms flopping in the air as if she was calling a touchdown. “Oh! Wait!”
She darted out of the room before anyone could say a word.
Aiden shook his head fondly then carried on. “And theagainpart of that announcement is because Jinx’s adoption is now official. Paperwork’s all signed. Just waiting for her new ID cards.”
Jinx ducked her head, but the corner of her mouth lifted. “About time.”
“About time…Dad,” Aiden coaxed.
Jinx dove at him, knotting arms around his and Petra’s necks as laughter swelled. “You guys are the best,” she repeated for the millionth time since the idea had been floated.
Petra kissed Jinx’s cheek. “You’re part of our family in every way now, forever.”
Declan’s heart filled. This—this was what High Water was meant to be. A place for people to land. To belong.
And sometimes to heal. Logan didn’t say anything, but as usual, he watched the tangled hug with intense longing in his eyes.
Tansy came flying back into the room with two paper bags, thrusting one toward Petra and the other toward Aiden. “We planned ahead,” she said proudly. “Well, I had the idea, and Jake made sure it happened. Teamwork!”
Inside were the obligatory candles.
Petra pulled hers out and burst into laughter. The label read,Warning: Hormones May Combust. Light at Your Own Risk.
Aiden’s had a cartoon of a terrified man holding a baby, and it read,You’re Going to be a Dad. Panic Accordingly.He lifted it in a toast to Tansy and Jake. “This I can do.”
“And you’ll do it brilliantly,” Tansy offered as she dropped back into her seat. “I’m not pregnant, but in the vein of sharing TMI, we are trying.”
“Ugh. I didn’t need to know that,” Jinx complained, squirming from the spot on the floor she’d returned to.
Tansy lifted a brow. “Just wait until yourmomgives you the birds and the bees talk. I’m going to draw pictures.”
“And on that note, I’m headed to bed.” Logan rose and gathered his things, obviously looking to escape. But he was smiling, happy to have been included in the announcements. He paused, glancing at each of them. “Good night, everyone.” He dipped his head when he met Declan’s gaze. “I’ll take care of the early chores.”
It was Sydney who slipped to her feet and marched to his side, hooking her arms around him and squeezing him tightly. “Night, you. See you in the morning.”
