Page 81 of Her Cowboy Blind Date

They stopped at the diner to break the trip and arrived at the ranch after the sun had set. The sky had shown off in true Colorado style, providing a kaleidoscope of colors as they drove through ranch country.

The family gathered indoors, the aroma of sizzling beef wafting inside from the veranda. Uncle Joe manned the outdoor grill. His cousins were finishing up a board game at the dining table. Becky had joined Cindy at the table. Aunt Lori and Mom were in the kitchen, preparing salads.

Dad walked indoors, a big smile lighting up his face. A rare occurrence, and unheard of during past visits to the ranch.

Mom moved to his side. “Can we chat for a few minutes before dinner?”

“Sure.” Sam walked with his mother along the hall to the library.

Mom closed the door. “Thank you for praying. God answered our prayers.”

He smiled. “Dad looks happy.”

She nodded, wiping tears from her eyes. “We had a breakthrough this morning. After church. Your father has shared that his ranch issue is related to the house.”

“In what way?”

“He finds it confronting being inside the house. All the memories from after the accident.”

“I’m sad it still bothers him.” Dad’s workplace accident had happened more than fifteen years ago. Sam had been too young to understand the severity of Dad’s anxiety and depression. The physical wounds had healed, but the emotional distress had remained.

“It’s an anxiety trigger. He’s open to the idea of retiring here if we build a new house. We hope to have a bit of money left over for travel.”

Sam nodded. “We could discuss building a house together.”

“I wouldn’t want to intrude on your life.”

“It could be two separate houses under one roof connected with a common wall and lockable internal door. If I’m traveling and away for long periods, you and Dad could look after the house for me.”

Mom’s eyes lit up. “Are you planning a trip to Australia?”

“Maybe. I’ll talk to you and Dad later, after we work out the details.”

Mom hugged him tight. “I’m so happy for you. I was praying you’d find a way to make your relationship with Becky work.”

“God has answered our prayers.” Sam was thankful his parents were making progress on repairing their marriage. He’d talk with Becky after dinner and discuss their future plans.

* * *

After dinner on Easter Sunday, Becky ran her fingers along the spines of the old books lining the library shelves. Antique book smell was her jam. She’d noted the history books on the shelves during her previous ranch visit and planned on browsing the contents of a few books while visiting for spring break.

Sam appeared beside her and draped his arm around her shoulders. He dropped a kiss on her cheek. “We need to talk.”

“Yeah, but I’d like to read. This book collection is amazing.”

“It was my grandfather’s. He collected old books.”

She met his gaze. “Was he a scholar as well as a rancher?”

“His father, my great grandfather, was a professor. One day I’ll tell you the story about how my great grandparents came to settle here.”

“Four generations of cowboys. Impressive.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

She chuckled. “I’m not old enough to be ma’amed.”

“I’d like to know you when you are. We need to talk about the future.” He led her to the sofa and sat beside her. “What do you want to do with your life?”

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