Colorado Cabin in the Pines (Pe - Jill Haymaker

COLORADO CABIN IN THE PINES Book Three in the Peakview Series

Jill Haymaker

Digital Edition Copyright © Jill Haymaker 2016 Colorado Cabin in the Pines is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Except for use in any review, no part of this text may be reproduced, transmitted, downloaded, decompiled, reverse engineered or stored in or

introduced into any information storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, now known or hereinafter invented, without the express permission of copyright owner. All rights reserved. Cover art: Copyright © Jill Haymaker 2016 www.jillhaymaker.com

Books in the Peakview series: Colorado Sunset Breakfast for Two Colorado Cabin in the Pines Coming summer 2016: Colorado Wrangler

Home is where the heart is, This book is dedicated to anyone who was lost and found their way back to love

CHAPTER ONE

“Damn!” Luke swore. The hammer came down on his thumb, still he kept right on nailing the shingles to the roof.

Physical pain he could endure. It was much easier than the emotional kind. “Hey stranger, what you doing up there?” Startled, Luke lost his hold on the nail gun, and before he could grab it, it careened down the slope of the roof toward where she stood. “Look out below!” he barely managed to yell, before the heavy gun crashed to the ground a few feet from where she stood. “Trying to kill me already?” Penny laughed. The sound of her voice, her laughter, it slayed him, just like it always had. What was she doing here? Grabbing on to the peak of the roof for support, he

turned and tried to regain his composure. There she stood, all five foot two inches of her, long blond hair flowing down her back. Dressed in her riding jeans and boots, she looked the same as she had before she left four years earlier. For a moment he thought he was seeing a ghost, but then she spoke again. “I stopped by the ranch house and your dad told me you were up here. Nice cabin, by the way.” Still shaken by her presence, Luke decided he’d better get off the roof before he went the way of the nail gun. “Give me a second, and I’ll come down.” He quickly gathered the rest on his tools and backed down the ladder.

Once on solid ground—at least physically—he looked over at her slim, attractive body. “Visiting your parents?” “Actually, I’m here for the summer. I got a job teaching in Humbolt Park in Chicago starting the middle of August. I thought I’d enjoy some rest and relaxation in the mountains for a couple of months. Once my full time job starts, who knows when I’ll have time to get back to Colorado. It’s good to be home.” “Congratulations. On the job that is. Sounds like what you wanted.” Had the touch of resentment he still felt come through in his voice? Okay, maybe more than a touch of resentment.

All through high school, when everyone referred to them as the school’s most likely to grow old together couple, he’d believed that she loved him and loved their life together in the Colorado Mountains. They’d even talked about building a home right here and raising horses and children together. How wrong he’d been. Apparently inner city Chicago was more to her liking. She left for college and never looked back, breaking his heart. That is—what was left of it after his mom’s death. Penny looked up into those smoky blue eyes. Twenty-two year old Luke looked even more attractive than he’d

been in high school, if that was possible. His skinny body had filled out, and his arms bulged with solid muscle. All his years of working on this ranch definitely kept him in shape. He stood in front of her now—shirtless, tanned, his jeans slung low on his hips. She fought the urge to pull him into her arms. Nope, she definitely didn’t trust herself to touch him. He was her past. They’d both moved on. She needed to keep this platonic. “I met June. She seems nice.” “She’s great. I’ve never seen my dad so happy, at least not since mom died. Although they’d never say it, now that they’re married they need their own

space. I feel like a third wheel sometimes. So here I am, far enough away to give them some privacy, but still on the ranch I love.” Penny sighed. That had been the problem. He still lived a few yards away from his childhood home. At eighteen, all she’d wanted was to experience something other than Peakview County, Colorado. Her world had seemed so limiting—almost suffocating. She had the same friends from kindergarten through high school. She knew that Luke would never leave, so she’d left him behind. “Can I have a tour?” “There’s not much to see, yet, but

I’ll show you around.” Luke turned and headed toward the front door. She followed, her eyes locking on that beat up cowboy hat, the one she had given him for graduation. Her heart started to beat faster. Quickly, she looked up at the cabin. It was amazing. She could tell that Luke had put his heart and soul into building it, making sure he got everything little detail perfect. He’d always been good with his hands. Inside there were only studs, but Luke walked her through anyway, explaining where each room was going to be when it was finished. There would be four bedrooms. This definitely wasn’t intended to be a small

bachelor pad. Was he dating someone? She had wanted to ask her mom, but the last thing she needed was for Mom to start thinking that she cared one way or the other. Her parents had been almost as devastated as Luke when she had moved away. She sure didn’t want to give them any false hopes that this was anything more than a temporary visit home. Her life was in Chicago now. She believed that God had led her to Chicago to help inner city kids, and that’s where she intended to spend her life. She felt needed there. They walked back out the front door of the cabin, as darkness descended and the last trace of the sun disappeared

behind the mountain range. She forgot how quickly it got dark here amid the tall peaks. The sweet aroma of pine from the massive trees surrounding the clearing filled the cooling air. She paused on the wide porch and gazed down at the sprawling Walker Ranch below. “The view from here is spectacular, Luke.” She paused. Just like we always knew it would be. No, she wouldn’t let her mind go there. “I better get back to my parents’ house. They still worry if I’m out riding after dark. It’s good to see you. Maybe we could go for a ride together while I’m here—be like old times.”

“Yeah, maybe.” Luke fidgeted with his hat. “Enjoy your summer.” Penny swung her leg up into the saddle turning Ginger around. She gave Luke a wave before kicking Ginger into a full gallop down through the shadows. She didn’t know what she’d expected, but the flood of old feelings that assaulted her from the moment she laid eyes on him overpowered her. The cool evening breeze whipping at her face relaxed her. She let the horse have her head. Luke Walker was ancient history. He’d been her first love. That’s all. Of course, she’d react to seeing him. Being back here her memories of their amazing years together, stuffed inside and

forgotten in Chicago, obviously seemed more real. She prided herself on looking forward—not back. Her future did not include Luke. As she unsaddled Ginger and brushed her down before letting her loose in the pasture for the night, she had to admit she had, at times, missed her Colorado mountain home. The wide open spaces filled her with a sense of peace. Peace—hard to find in the hustle and bustle of inner city Chicago. Uninvited, Luke popped back into her mind interrupting her calm. She shivered as she locked the gate and headed to the house. Her mind pictured his tan, muscular body up on that roof.

No, the feelings that Luke stirred in her were anything but peaceful. Luke’s eyes followed Penny until she became nothing more than a trail of dust heading over the eastern horizon. He turned and stared blankly at his cabin —the cabin that they’d once dreamed of together. Well, that was over. He struggled to figure out why just the sight of her had upset him so much. Probably because she took him by surprise. He wasn’t going to get any more work done tonight. His mind occupied by ghosts from his past. Besides, it was almost completely dark now. He gathered up his remaining tools and stowed them safely

in the locked tool bin inside of the cabin. Not that there was much danger of anyone taking them out here on the ranch, but he liked to be careful. Accepting defeat for the evening, he untied Geronimo and headed for home. “I was wondering when you’d show up for some food.” His new stepmom gave him a hug as he walked through the back door into the kitchen. “I’ll fix you a plate. Your dad and I already ate.” “Thanks Mom, I’m not really very hungry.” The term “mom” still sounded a little strange. His biological mom died when he was only twelve, but he truly loved June and wanted her to know that he accepted her as family. After almost a

year, it was getting easier. “What? The Walker men are always hungry. Are you feeling, okay?” “Just tired. It’s been a long day. Smells good though.” He smiled when she set a full plate down in front of him. “Oh by the way, Penny stopped by earlier. Did she find you?” “Yeah, she rode up to the cabin.” “She seems nice.” As much as he loved June, he wasn’t in the mood to discuss Penny with anyone right now. He concentrated on his food, hoping she’d let the subject drop. “You two used to date, didn’t you?” No such luck. “Back in high school,

yeah. That was a long time ago. She’s moved on. A Chicago city girl now.” Finishing the last bites of his food, he stood up and loaded his plate in the dishwasher. “Thanks for a great meal as always. I’ll go find Dad. We need to discuss what’s on the agenda for tomorrow.” Females. Why did they always want to talk about everything? Over the last ten years, he and his dad had established a great relationship. Although they loved each other dearly, they didn’t feel the need to get into emotional issues. He found his father kicked back in his recliner in the living room. Although an open book lay on his lap, he appeared

to be doing more dozing than reading. Jeff startled and looked up as Luke entered the room. “How’s the cabin coming along?” See. Here was a subject he felt comfortable discussing. “Roof’s almost done. Ran out of daylight. Hopefully I can get those last shingles on tomorrow and then move to the inside.” Luke sat on the couch across from his dad and listened to his plans for the following day, with thankfully no mention of Penny Anderson. When June joined them carrying a cup of tea for herself and his father, Luke excused himself and headed upstairs. He turned in early. Life on Walker Ranch started

with the sunrise each morning. He usually had no problem falling asleep, but tonight thoughts of a blonde on horseback raced through his mind and sleep was hard to find. It would be a long day tomorrow if he couldn’t push her out of his mind and get some rest.

CHAPTER TWO

Penny squinted as the bright Colorado sunlight hit her eyelids. Opening them a tiny crack, she smiled at the dark blue sky outside her window. She had to admit she’d missed waking up to the blue sky over the mountains. All she saw out the bedroom window of her third-floor city apartment in the old brownstone was the brick wall of the building next door. Besides, in Chicago

the sky was usually overcast in the morning. Colorado sunrises always made her feel like the whole world was out there waiting to be explored. She leaned back on her pillows, reminding herself that she was on vacation. She could stay in bed as long as she liked. She glanced over at the clock on the nightstand. Nine o’clock already? She didn’t want to waste the whole day. Stretching, she climbed out of bed and wandered downstairs to the aroma of fresh coffee. “Mornin’ Mom.” Penny surrounded her mom in a hug from behind, placing a kiss on her cheek. “It’s so good to have you home! Sit

down and I’ll get you some breakfast. Did you sleep well?” Penny reached around her mom to grab a large mug and pour herself some coffee. “I always sleep good in my old bed. So many happy childhood memories surround me in there.” “Got any plans for your first full day back? Ann set a heaping plate of pancakes in front of her daughter. Penny laughed. “You are going to make me fat this summer if you keep this up.” “You look like you could use a little more meat on your bones.” “Then none of my clothes would fit. My starting teacher’s salary won’t pay

for a whole new wardrobe.” She took a bite of a made-fromscratch pancake and sighed in pleasure. She had missed her mom’s home cooking. “Sure is good though. I’m going to try and just relax for a few days and then get serious about my lesson plans for the coming year. Maybe I’ll take a drive into town, and I want to take Ginger on a long ride later.” “Did you enjoy your ride last night?” “Yeah, it felt good to be back in the saddle. Ginger enjoyed going for a run again, too. Even Bandit had fun following along. She reached down to sneak a bite of pancake to her childhood

companion, a miniature white and black Australian Shepherd. “Don’t you be feeding table scraps to that dog. You’ll get her back into the bad habit of begging. She never does that with your dad and me.” “You know who really loves you don’t you, girl.” Bandit wagged her tail in response. Time to change the subject. “I met June Walker last night. It’s strange to have a woman at the Walker place, but she seems great.” “She’s wonderful. She has quickly become one of my closest friends. For an Easterner, she fits right in. Did you see Luke?” There it was. The question she

knew her mom had been dying to ask. She opened the door for that one. “Yeah, working on his cabin. I stopped there for a minute.” “And…” “There’s no “and.” Luke and I…that was a long time ago. I’ve put him behind me. I’m sure he’s moved on, too.” “I’ve never seen him with a girl since you left. June says she worries about him being so alone at his age. He should be out having fun. Such a serious young man. Maybe you two could hang out this summer.” “Mom, don’t go trying to do any matchmaking. My life is in Chicago. You know this is just a vacation, right.”

“Right. How is Darren, anyway?” “Darrell. His name is Darrell, mom, and he’s good. You know we’re teaching together next fall. He’s leading a summer program for at-risk youth at the school and working on getting our classrooms set up. I’m thankful that he’s there for the summer, since I decided to escape. Where is Daddy this morning, by the way?” Since retiring from the Farm Bureau last year, Dad was never far from home. “He’s probably at Violet’s shooting the breeze with his buddies. He’ll be back in a while.” “If you don’t mind, maybe I’ll head that way myself. Catch up on the latest

Peakview gossip. You want to join me?” Penny put her dishes in the sink and took a last swig of her coffee. “Thanks, but no. I have a lot of work that I want to get done in the garden today. You go right ahead. *** Penny pulled her Camaro up in front of Violet’s Café, the one and only hangout in the small mountain town of Peakview—population somewhere around 100. If you wanted to know any local gossip, Violet was your go-to person. She’d run the small café since before Penny was born. Not much

happened in the entire county that Violet wasn’t aware of. Besides, Luke and his dad stopped by there almost daily, and she wouldn’t mind running into him again. She barely opened the front when Violet looked up and smiled. “Well, Penny Anderson. Aren’t you a sight for sore eyes.” The older woman wiped her hands on her apron and walked around the counter to give her a hug. “Gary said you were back for the summer. Let me look at you. You haven’t changed a bit.” “Thanks.” She looked down the counter and couldn’t stop the frown that formed on her face. Luke wasn’t here. If you are looking for your daddy, he left a

few minutes ago with Tom Peyton. They were heading up to Peaktop Ranch. Would you like some breakfast?” “Just coffee, please. Mom already stuffed me full of her homemade pancakes.” She took a seat at the end of the counter and said hello to the few other locals. “So what’s new in our little town?” Violet poured herself a cup and took a seat next to her. “Quite a lot really. You know that Howard and I got hitched a couple of weeks ago?” “Mom mentioned it. Congratulations. Mr. Crandall is such a nice man. I can’t even remember how many times he rescued me when my old

Camaro chose to break down.” “I’d forgotten about that car. Is it still running?” “As a matter of fact, it’s parked right out front. I flew home, so I’m going to be driving it for the summer. Tell Howard he may have some business from me.” “And then there’s Melanie and her daughter Sophie who opened Sophie’s Choice, the bookstore across the street. Melanie is Howard’s daughter. It’s a long story, but he never even knew she existed until a few months ago. I’m so thrilled to have a new daughter and granddaughter.” “I noticed the shop when I drove up.

Is that really the same old eyesore that had sat there deserted for so many years? I remember as kids, we used to think it was haunted.” “Yep, the whole town pitched in to fix it up.” Penny downed the last of cup and asked the question. “So have the Walkers been by today?” “Jeff and Luke stopped by right after sunrise. You have to get here earlier if you want to catch our busy ranchers. Speaking of Luke, if I remember correctly, you and he were an item for quite a while. Have you seen him since you got back?” There it was again. Why had she

thought she could escape her past in her tiny hometown? “Way back in high school, but that over years ago. We’ve both grown up and moved on.” “That’s a shame. He’s such a nice young man. Have you seen the cabin he is building out on the ranch? Looks like the perfect place to raise a family.” “I’m sure that he and any women he ends up with will be very happy there.” “Funny, I don’t think I’ve seen him with a girl since you left.” Penny stood up to leave. “The coffee’s on me. Don’t be a stranger.” “Thanks, Violet. It’s good to see you again.”

Penny started up the Camaro and headed back toward home. Had time stood still in this place? Why did everyone still think of her and Luke as a couple? It had been four years, for goodness sake. She had moved on—she enjoyed her life in Chicago and her relationship with Darrell. She had the life she had always dreamed of, and yet…seeing him last night had thrown her for a loop. When she arrived back home, her mom was still busy in the garden, so she went upstairs and searched the back of her cluttered closet. She pushed her old clothes aside to find the large plastic bin that held all of the treasured mementos

from her life here in Peakview. She hadn’t looked at any of it since she graduated from Mountain High. She lugged the heavy bin over to the center of her bed and flopped down to relive those days. Ever since she caught the first glimpse of Luke’s cabin the prior evening, there was one specific item she couldn’t get out of her head. She didn’t even know if she’d saved it. Opening the first shoebox, she pulled out pieces of her life; football programs, prom tickets, corsages, movie ticket stubs, letters, poems and snapshots, so many pictures—pictures of Luke, pictures of her and Luke, pictures of her and Luke and various other

friends, pictures of Christmas mornings —Luke with her family and her with his. Their lives had been so interwoven for five long years. She couldn’t remember exactly when she first met him. He was in her kindergarten class and pretty much every class after that. She first really noticed him at the beginning of sixth grade at Peak Middle School. He was so good looking! All the girls in her class had fallen in love with him the instant they started noticing boys as more than an annoyance. He was a jock, a superstar at everything he attempted. She was shy and quiet, and he hadn’t given her the time of day.

That all changed the summer after their eight grade year when his mom died of cancer. Being caring person her mom was and being the closest neighbor to the Walker Ranch, her mom had taken Jeff and his boys under her wing. With Penny in tow, they made daily trips to the Walker’s with food, and to help around the house. One day Penny wandered down to the barn while her mom did some laundry. She quietly tiptoed into the horse barn. She loved the sweet aroma of fresh hay mixed with smell of horses. Thinking she was alone, she hummed one of her favorite songs as she petted a horse in the first stall. Suddenly, she jumped. Was that a noise

from the far back stall? Making her way through the semi-darkness, she found Luke, the cocky football star lying in the hay sobbing. She lost her heart to him that second. His back was turned toward her and without thinking, she crouched down beside him and wrapped him in her arms. Instead of pulling away as she feared, he snuggled closer to her. They simply laid there in silence until his sobs finally subsided. This was a much different Luke than the one she’d envied at school. She’d have been content to stay there forever. That was the beginning. By the time their first year of high school started in the fall, they were inseparable.

“What are you doing, honey?” Her mom’s voice brought her back to the present. “Just going through this old stuff from high school. I might throw some of it away, make a little more room in my closet.” “That would be a first. Come on down when you’re done. Your dad and I are sitting on the back deck enjoying the afternoon sunshine.” “I’ll be down in a few.” Penny set aside the remaining shoe boxes, and there underneath was what she had started out to find—her sketch pads. She gently pulled the two large pads out and ran her hand over the

covers. She had once dreamed of becoming an artist, back before she faced the reality that a career should be something you could make a living doing. She’d carried those pads with her all through high school. She opened the first one and began thumbing through the worn pages. There were drawing of horses, and Bandit, and Luke on horseback, and lots of trees, mountains and sunsets, all drawn with her charcoal pencils. How she’d loved those pencils the year she got them for Christmas. When she didn’t find the picture she was searching for, she set the first pad one aside and opened the next. Her mouth fell open. There it was.

It had been a warm summer afternoon following their Junior year. They had taken a picnic lunch and a blanket and made their way on horseback up to the ridge on the Walker Ranch. After eating, Luke stretched out on the blanket and told her this was where they were going to build their future home. They talked about the horses and kids they would raise together. Then Luke laid back, covered his face with his cowboy hat and dosed off. She retrieved her sketch pad from her saddlebag and started drawing. When she finished sketching, there was a perfect likeness of the hill with a log home in center, complete with a large

wraparound porch and picture windows to view the sunsets. At the top, she had written in block letters OUR HOME. Then she punched him in the ribs to wake him up and handed it to him. Luke looked up at her with love in his bright blue eyes and gave her a quick kiss. “It’s perfect,” He’d said. “I’ll build it for you. I promise.” With tears in her eyes, she closed the pad and put it back in the box. What hit her like a ton of bricks last night was true, the house Luke was building was the one she’d sketched that day five years ago. ***

Luke leaned back and twisted his spine from side to side to get the kinks out. This was tiring work. After finishing the roof and installing the doors to keep the weather and critters outside, he moved on to the hardwood floors. With the master bedroom floor completed, he moved a sleeping bag in and now spent most nights sleeping up here in his own space. It had been two weeks since Penny stopped by and he’d managed to avoid her completely. Seeing her again stirred up too many unwanted feelings. If he spent any time with her, he’d get sucked right back in and then be devastated when she left in a few more

weeks. Nope, he refused to put himself through that. So he cut down on his trips into town, and the few times he caught glimpses of her and Ginger out riding, he made sure he headed in the opposite direction. He somehow managed to forestall June’s desire to invite the whole Anderson family over for dinner. He picked up another board and nailed it into place. Dang it, this was supposed to be her home, too. The ghost of Penny loomed strong in the cabin tonight, so he put down his tools, untied Geronimo from where he stood patiently outside, and headed to the one place he always found peace. Geronimo made his way up the

well-worn path almost by memory. Luke reined in the horse as they crested the hill. He climbed out of the saddle and walked over to the marble bench overlooking the small wooden cross and the vast valley beyond. He felt her presence. This was where they’d spread his mom’s ashes and created a memorial to her memory. Had it really been ten years? It felt as if Mom was right here with him. He came here often when he needed to think. He’d talk to her and sometimes it seemed she talked back. Tonight he simply leaned back and watched the sun slowly approach the western horizon. “Mom, Penny’s back. What should I do?”

CHAPTER THREE

Penny tried to stifle her frustration as she saddled Ginger after dinner. She jumped on the horse, called to Bandit and headed to the west toward Walker land. She’d been home two weeks and hadn’t seen Luke once since their encounter at the cabin that first night. She always seemed to just miss him in town. A few times she thought she caught glimpses of him, but he disappeared like

the wind. Well, enough was enough. She didn’t really know what she expected when she came to Peakview, but at least she thought they could forge a friendship out of their past history. Was he avoiding her? Well, not tonight. She’d track him down and make him talk to her. She couldn’t stand this weirdness between them. They needed to face this and move on—one way or another. First she headed to the main Walker ranch buildings. She rode around the entire barn and corral area and saw neither Luke nor Geronimo. Satisfied that he wasn’t there, she made her way up the hill to the front of the cabin. Geronimo wasn’t tied up here either. She

walked up on the porch just as the sun set and smiled at the progress that Luke had made since her last visit. She might as well look around inside. She tried the front door and to her relief it wasn’t locked. “Luke, you here?” Her voice echoed in silence. Guess he wasn’t home, so she shut the door behind her and wandered farther inside. The floors were stunning. One thing she could say for him, he had good taste. She walked into the master bedroom and saw his bedroll. It looked like he’d been sleeping here. Well, she’d just sit down and await his return. She pulled bedding around her shoulders in the cooling air. It smelled like Luke. She

breathed in deep, surrounded by happy memories and lay down and snuggled in to wait. *** By the time Luke decided to head back down the mountain, darkness had fully descended on the ranch. The warm, clear night surrounded him, and he was in no hurry to get back to his lonely makeshift bed. He let his horse meander down the path at his own speed. The full moon on the horizon lit their way. No need for a flashlight tonight. He felt better, as always after a trip to his mom’s resting place. He still didn’t have

any answers, but a calmness filled him now. His mom was always with him, at least in spirit. He absently stared at the trail ahead, not really focusing on anything. The night was silent except for the occasional howl of a distant coyote. Oh, how he loved this land. One thing he knew for sure—he could never leave Walker Ranch. Maybe it was time to forget his past and focus on meeting a girl who shared his love of this life. Once he’d thought that was Penny—but he had been wrong. Entering the small clearing that surrounded his home, Geronimo’s ears pricked up and he whinnied. The sound immediately returned by a horse not far

away. Had one of their herd gotten through the fence again and wandered up to his place? No, his eyes adjusted and there was clearly a saddled horse tied to his porch rail. As he neared, he saw Ginger. Where was Penny and what was she doing here? Now was as good a time as any to let her know he was over her and wanted to be just friends. He couldn’t keep avoiding her all summer. He’d put their past behind him and move on like she had done. The last thing he wanted was any lasting hard feelings between them. He unsaddled and unbridled Geronimo and tied him next to Ginger. Giving the other horse a pat on the neck, he walked up onto the porch.

Strange—all quiet. He pushed his front door open, and Bandit ran up to him, her whole body wiggling in delight. Crouching down to pet his old friend in the dark interior, he said, “Hi there. What are you doing here buddy? Where is Penny?” The little dog wiggled her butt and disappeared into Luke’s bedroom. He followed closely behind guided by a shaft of moonlight streaming through the large picture window. At the doorway, he skidded to a halt. There on his bedding lay Penny sound asleep, her long, blonde hair spilling over onto the floor boards and glistening in the moonlight. God, she was beautiful! He

stood mesmerized, not wanting to wake her and break the moment. Bandit lay down with a sigh on a folded blanket in the corner as if to say she was here for the night. Quietly slipping off his boots and hat and laying them on the floor, he tiptoed over to where she lay. All rational thought deserting him, he carefully laid down beside her. Enfolding his strong, muscular arms around her, he pulled her close. Penny sighed and still asleep snuggled into his chest. He brushed a light kiss on her forehead causing her eyes to suddenly fly open and stare into his. “Hi, sweetheart.” He found her lips and kissed her softly before she could

protest. Penny shook her head to clear the sleep-induced fog from her brain. “I’m sorry. I came by…wanted to talk…I must have dozed off.” “Nothing to be sorry for. I can’t imagine anything nicer than coming home and finding you here.” His voice had taken on a husky quality which caused her body to react as it did when they were in high school. Instead of letting go, Luke tightened his arms around her. His hand softly tangled in her hair as he lowered his face to hers once more and found her mouth. Not soft this time, but with a need and desire. He

kissed her hard, his tongue forcing its way to hers. She heard a moan, maybe from her own throat, and wound her arms around his neck and kissed him with equal intensity. Don’t think, just enjoy. She pulled him closer and felt his desire pressed against her. She could already feel the throbbing sensation between her own legs. The cool summer evening just got a lot hotter. She wanted him, now. She let her hands slide lower and grabbed the waist of his t-shirt. Snaking her fingers underneath, she raked her nails gently up and down his warm back. Luke responded with a deep moan running his hands down her back and cupping her

ass through her jeans, holding her against his throbbing erection. Grabbing his shirt, she maneuvered it over his head, and he did the same with her tank top. He snapped the clasp to her bra and threw it aside with their shirts. Warm touching warm. His hand found its way to her breast and just when she thought she’d burst, he pulled back. “Penny?” “Hummm?” She opened her eyes to gaze into his intense blue pools. “I’m not prepared…don’t have a condom. Do you?” She smiled. “No, of course not. I was just out for a ride. Not something I carry around.”

“Okay, then. Pants stay on. But let me make you come.” Before she could respond, Luke returned his hand to her breast, kneading the soft flesh as his mouth lowered to find her nipple and sucked long and hard. She tangled her hands in his hair and kissing his neck and sucked in his flesh. Groaning louder, he continued to suck at her nipple while moving his hand inside the waist of her jeans and finding her soft, wet center with his fingers. She panted and called out his name as he pushed her over the edge. He groaned in relief, and she felt him throbbing beneath his jeans. “I love you, Penny,” he murmured

gently holding her head against his warm, strong chest. She closed her eyes and drifted into a peaceful slumber. *** A bird chirped outside the window. Penny opened her eyes and rolled over to look at her watch on the nightstand. Holy crap! It was after 5:00 a.m. She needed to get back before her parents woke up. “Luke, wake up. It’s almost morning.” “So?” His eyes opened slowly and he smiled up at her. She found her bra and shirt and slipped them back on.

“What’s the rush?” “What’s the rush? If my parents wake up and discover that I didn’t come home last night, my dad and your dad and the whole county will be out looking for me before breakfast. I need to get home fast.” “Wait.” He sat up and ran his fingers through his tousled hair. “Do you want me to ride with you?” “Of course not. That’s the last thing they need to see—you and I together.” She headed toward the door, slipping on her boots as she walked. Luke stumbled out of bed and pulled on his jeans. “We need to talk about… about last night.”

“We will. Just not right now. Come on Bandit.” The dog looked up from his cozy bed and wagged his tail. Luke grabbed her and planted a lingering kiss on her lips, before she broke loose and ran out the door to her horse. “Have a good day.” She heard from behind her back as she galloped off into the already lightening eastern horizon. What had she done? Luke and her—it was all too confusing. And the last thing she needed—the very last thing—was for her parents to think they were back together. Her mother was up by 6:00 every morning. She needed to get in the house

and into her bed before her absence was discovered. As she neared their property she slowed Ginger to a walk, urging the horse to be quiet. “Shhh,” she said to Bandit. She didn’t need her to start barking now. As if she understood, the dog followed slowly behind her. She dismounted before she got to the corral and tiptoed to the gate, wincing as the hinges swung open squeaking. Across the yard she could see the house. No lights appeared to be on—a good sign. She unsaddled and unbridled the horse. No time to brush her down as usual. She gave Ginger’s neck a quick hug. “I promise to brush you double next

time,” she whispered into the horse’s ear. This time, she climbed over the gate to avoid further noise and called for Bandit to scoot under the rails. Once in the yard, she picked up the little dog and hurried to the door leading to the back staircase. Fortunately for her, her parents had added a master suite to the opposite side of the main floor several years ago, not wanting to deal with climbing up and down the stairs. Also fortunately for her, Peakview County remained such a safe, isolated place that no one, including her parents, ever bothered to lock their doors. What a contrast to Chicago! In a flash, she ran up the stairs, undressed, and snuggled down into her

bed. Bandit did a couple of tight circles and lay down beside her with a sigh as if to say she guessed it really wasn’t morning yet. Penny pulled the covers around her chin and tried to fall back asleep. After all, she didn’t get much rest last night. A few minutes later, she gave up. She smiled, remembering the feel of Luke’s body against hers. She was too wound up to sleep. She pulled her furry friend closer and buried her face in his soft coat. What was she going to do about Luke Walker? After all, she had a life and a boyfriend in Chicago. Darrell’s face popped up in her mind. Oh my God, what had she done? In her

twenty-two years of life she had never cheated on anyone—never even considered it. But now here she was having spent a wonderful night with someone from her past. And the bad part —it didn’t feel wrong. When she awoke to his kiss her world felt right. Right for the first time in four years. *** Luke watched her ride away. He turned and walked back into the cabin, picking up his flannel shirt and pulling it on. He grabbed a Coke from the small cooler and headed back out to the porch. He popped the tab as he slid down with

his back up against the pine rail. The sun was now fully visible in the eastern sky, casting a warm, red glow over the summer dawn. Despite the night he spent with Penny snuggled in his arms, a deep stab of loneliness pierced at his heart. What had he been thinking? This—him and her —wasn’t real. She’d made it clear that her home was in Chicago. Why did she come to him last night? Did she want a summer fling? Well, that wasn’t his thing. He loved her, as he loved her every day since junior high when she found him in the barn. He lost his heart that day and never got it back, even in the four years she’d been gone. What

happened last night was his dream come true, but was it hers? He needed to talk to her, find out once and for all if there was anything more than memories between them. Yeah, the physical attraction was definitely still there, but was that all? He needed to find out. *** Penny winced. That last step always creaked as you walked into to kitchen. “Good morning sweetheart. I didn’t hear you come in last night. Were you enjoying the full moon?” Thankful her mom’s back was turned to her, she felt her checks warm

with the thought of what she’d done in the moonlight. “It was a beautiful night.” She replied as casually as possible. Reaching for the pot, she poured herself a cup of coffee and changed the subject. “What’s on the agenda for today?” “I’m headed out to the garden to do some weeding before it gets too hot. Would you care to join me?” “I’d love to. The main reason I came home is to spend some quality time with you and Dad.” Had she subconsciously wanted to spend some time with a certain sexy cowboy, too? “I’m afraid once I’m teaching full-time that it’ll be harder to get back here.”

“We’ll have to make more trips to Chicago to see you then.” Penny smiled. Her mom meant it, but her dad was a fish out of water in the big city. Doubting that even her persuasive mother could get him to visit often, her heart clench with sadness. She tried to envision Luke coming to visit. Nope that wasn’t going to happen. She had known better than to invite him to visit her at college, he’d have hated everything about the Windy City, and they’d have ended up fighting. She’d been right to end things when she did. There was no other choice, despite how he made her tingle. Penny hooked her arm in her

mother’s. “Come on. There are weeds waiting to be destroyed.” Working in the dirt with her mom always brought a sense of peace to Penny. She was only two or three years old when Mom first starting letting her come out and help. At that age, she pulled out as many vegetables as weeds, but her mom never got mad or impatient. Mom started with an 8x8 patch of soil outside the back door. Over the years her “little garden” grew to almost an acre. Penny didn’t know anyone with a green thumb like her mom. Everyone loved her fresh veggies and came from all over Peakview County to get her produce when she set up her roadside stand each

fall. So being back here, pulling weeds, wasn’t a chore but a happy memory. They worked side by side for most of the morning. The sound of crunching gravel, made both women look up. Following her mom’s gaze toward the gate, she saw a car turn and slowly make its way down their lane, a trail of dust in its wake. Ann wiped her brow with the back of her hand. “I wonder who that could be? I don’t recognize the car.” Her mother stood up, stretched, and walked around the side of the house. Soon she was back, a familiar face following her into the garden. “Darrell! What are you doing here?” She caught herself with her hand,

before she tumbled backwards into a row of carrots. “I thought you’d be happy to see me.” She detected a slight irritation in his voice. Recovering from her initial shock, she stood up brushing the soil from her hands. “Of course I’m happy to see you. I just wasn’t expecting you, that’s all. You should have let me know you were coming.” She walked over to where he stood and gave him a hug. “I wanted to surprise you. I got a week’s break between camp sessions and decided to come see for myself these Colorado Mountains you’re always talking about. Plus, it’s been hard

doing our lesson plans by email. This will give us a chance to sit down and really work some things out.” Remembering her manners, Penny turned to her mom. “Mom, you remember Darrell, from graduation?” “He refreshed my memory. How nice that he came all this way to see you.” Her mom’s comment lacked enthusiasm. “Come on in the house, and I’ll clean off some of this dirt. Would you like something to drink? You didn’t drive all the way from Chicago did you?” Darrell laid his hand across her shoulder as they walked toward to

house. No sparks, no flames, nothing like the way she felt when Luke engulfed her in his arms last night. “No, of course not. I flew into Denver and rented that little Subaru. I have to say, I don’t know how anyone lives this far from civilization. I understand now why you left and came to Chicago.” Penny frowned. Why did his statement make her mad? He was right, that was what she’d done, hadn’t she? This was just a vacation. Last night really did a number on her head. She needed to face reality. She didn’t belong here anymore. It was probably a good thing Darrell showed up now, before she

made any more stupid mistakes. Once cleaned up, Penny added some makeup and a smile. It really was nice for Darrell to come all this way to see her. When she walked into the kitchen, he was seated at the table sipping some of her mom’s fresh lemonade. She walked up behind him and laid her hands on his shoulders. “Would you like to take a drive into Peakview? I’d love to show you my hometown the same way you showed me yours when I first arrived in Chicago.” “I’d like that. Thanks for the lemonade, Mrs. Anderson. Darrell pushed back his chair and stood up to join her.

“Call me Ann. No need to be formal here.” “We’ll be back in a little while, Mom.” Penny gave her mom a hug before they walked out into the sunshine. “I’ll drive.” Penny led Darrell out behind the barn where she parked the Camaro. “Wow, I never thought I’d see you driving an old gas guzzling car like this one.” Penny fought back the anger that rose in her throat at his words. “It’s my car from high school. The Silver Knight holds a special place in my heart. My first love. Besides, I wasn’t going to buy a new car for a few weeks this summer.”

“I guess that makes sense, but still, maybe your parents could trade it in for something more fuel efficient.” What? Get rid of her Knight? She was mortified at the thought. He had no idea the sentimental attachment she had to this car. So many memories…most of them with Luke. She snapped her attention back to the present and peeled out of the driveway, throwing gravel in her wake. Darrell chatted about the kids and summer camp as she drove the three short miles into Peakview. She smiled at the stories of some of their antics. She did miss those kids. She glanced over at the man sitting beside her. When she’d

arrived in Chicago, she’d been so lost, and if she’d admit it, scared. The City, traffic, lights, trying to maneuver the “L”. She met Darrell that very first day of classes. He’d been so passionate about giving back to the South Chicago neighborhood where he was born and raised. He quickly took her under his wing, taught her how to navigate the city and became her best friend. Those first two years it had been purely platonic. He was like the brother she never had. Then her junior year, they had moved off campus into a big old home along with three of their classmates. Somehow living in the same space had gradually turned their friendship into something

more. It seemed a natural progression. Although she enjoyed his passion for his community and admired his determination to help disadvantaged children, she’d never felt the fireworks that she experienced with Luke in high school. The last two years she’d let herself believe that this was what mature love felt like. All those butterflies and thrills were a high school thing. She’d accepted it. That is until last night when all of her former passion came crashing back in Luke’s arms. They curved to the left around the hill, and the small wooden sign bearing the Peakview name came into view. “Here we are,” she announced.

“This is it?” Darrell frowned. “This is a town?” Penny ignored his tone and smiled. “Yep, I love this place. Everyone is like family.” She pulled her car to a stop near the café. “Come on. I’ll introduce you to Violet and anyone else who happens to be around this afternoon.” Penny jumped out of the car, leaving her window rolled down. “Um. Don’t you want to lock it?” Darrell asked. “In Peakview? Heck no. No one will mess with it.” Penny led the way, opening the old wooden screen door with bright neon OPEN sign. A familiar voice greeted them. “Hey Penny. Who do you have with you?”

“Violet, this is Darrell, my friend from Chicago.” “Nice to meet you. Welcome to Peakview.” Penny sat down at the counter and motioned for Darrell to join her. “Violet has the best food and coffee in town.” Violet laughed. “The only food and coffee in town. What can I get you two kids?” “A cup of your wonderful coffee, of course.” Penny smiled. The aroma smelled like home. “Just water for me.” Darrell replied. Violet set their drinks in front of them. “So Darren, how long are you in

town?” “It’s Darrell. I’m staying for the rest of the week. Then I need to get home. It’s a busy time getting ready for the start of the school year. I’ll be glad when Penny is back in a couple more weeks, too.” “Well, it sure is good to have her home this summer. We all miss her.” Several locals came and went, all stopping by to say hello to her and give her a hug. Penny felt so comfortable here, but it was clear that Darrell wasn’t comfortable at all. He fidgeted on his stool and commented about the unhealthiness of the food being served. Her walking tour of the two short blocks that made up “the business district” of

Peakview seemed to leave him equally unimpressed. “What on earth do people do for a living here?” He asked frowning. “There’s a sizable tourist population in the summer. The businesses here in town mostly cater to them. Most everyone else is a farmer or rancher. There are many more cows and horses in Peakview County than people.” “Interesting,” Darrell replied. But she could tell by his tone that he didn’t find her hometown interesting at all.

CHAPTER FOUR

Penny steered the Camaro back into their lane. How she loved the view just as you turned off the main road. The Peak Range to the west, covered in snow most of the year, and the sprawling acres of dark green fields that comprised the Anderson and Walker spreads. You could see it all from here. When she first arrived in Chicago, the city felt so claustrophobic compared to this. She

supposed she’d gotten used to the tight buildings and lack of open space over the years. She turned her thoughts back to her passenger who had come so far just to spend some time with her and smiled. “Oh good, Daddy’s home. I’m so glad the two of you will have the chance to get to know each other.” Her father had met Darrell at graduation, but Daddy had seemed so out of place and uncomfortable in Chicago, the two men in her life hadn’t had the chance to spend much time with each other. In her eyes, Daddy was the perfect man. She needed him and Darrell to like each other.

“I’m looking forward to it,” Darrell said. Penny detected a less than enthusiastic tone to his voice. Before she could respond Gary Anderson walked up to the car to greet them. “Darren, nice to see you again.” Gary held out his hand to the younger man. “Darrell, Dad. It’s Darrell.” “Well, Darrell. How are you enjoying our mountains so far?” “They’re beautiful, sir. This is the first time I’ve been west of Illinois.” “It’s about time you got to ‘God’s country’. You may not ever want to leave.” “I doubt that. I’m really more of a

city boy. I can understand why Penny was anxious to move to the city. It seems very isolated here.” Gary frowned and quickly changed the subject. “I hope you’re hungry. I pulled some huge T-Bones out of the freezer for the grill. Nothing better than Colorado beef grown right here in Peakview County.” “Darrell’s a vegetarian, Dad.” “Oh.” The awkward pause lingered as her dad struggled with what to say next. “In that case, I’m sure Ann can whip you up a salad from the garden. More steak for the rest of us. Come on up on the porch and sit a spell before the food

is ready.” Her dad turned and returned to his rocker. This wasn’t going well. Darrell did seem out of place here. He’d always been so self-assured in Chicago. Why did he come? She frowned and went inside to see if she could help her mother. “Mom, where’s the Tylenol?” She said entering the kitchen. “In the cupboard on the left where it’s always been. Do you have a headache?” “Yeah. It’s been a long day.” “How did Darren like our lovely little town?” Penny was too tired to correct her

mom again. “I don’t think he was too impressed. He was expecting more shops and businesses.” “I guess our way of life isn’t for everyone.” “Darrell’s a vegetarian. Can you make sure he gets a big salad and potato?” “A vegetarian, really? I can’t imagine how the two of you fix meals together. You’ve always loved beef.” “Actually, I’ve been eating a lot more fruits and vegetables. It’s a much healthier diet.” “Don’t let your father hear you talk like that. He might disown you.” Together they set the picnic table in

the back yard with the checkered tablecloth and colorful plates and cups. Mom loved to entertain and serve a good meal. While Dad grilled the steaks to perfection for everyone but Darrell, Mom made sure their guest had plenty of other food to fill him up, along with a big glass of her homemade iced tea. Penny relaxed and enjoyed the warm, sunny June evening, listening to Darrell asking her parents about ranch life in Colorado. *** Luke smiled as he and Dad finished a long, hot day of working with horses.

He leaned back on the stack of hay bales removing his hat and wiping his forehead with his bandanna. He could feel the dirt and grit on his skin. Some men might hate the feeling, but he loved everything about the rancher life. “You coming up to the house for dinner?” Jeff asked. “No, I don’t think so. I’m going to jump in a quick shower and maybe take Geronimo out for a long ride. It’s such a beautiful summer evening.” “That it is. Maybe June and I’ll take a ride after dinner, too. I’ll have her wrap up some leftovers in the fridge in case you get hungry later.” “Thanks, Dad.” Luke entered the

main house by back door which led directly up to the bathroom that connected to his childhood room. As much as he loved this house, he’d be glad when the plumbing was in his cabin, and he could move in full time. As rivulets of brown water ran down his body in the warmth of the shower, his thoughts ran back to last night and Penny. It seemed so right to have her in the cabin, but he didn’t like the way she left in such a hurry this morning. Their time together seemed incomplete. They needed to talk about what the night meant. Maybe there was still a chance for them after all. He’d ride over to the Anderson place. Ask her to spend some

time with him. A long ride together in the sunset could be a great time for them to process how they felt. It had always worked back in high school. Toweling off, he put on a clean pair of his better jeans and chose a deep blue button down western shirt from his closet. Penny had always said that blue was his color, bringing out the sparkle in his eyes. He ran his fingers through his wet hair. It would dry in the wind as he rode. He splashed on some cologne. On the rare occasions when he wore cologne these days, he still wore the same scent she gave him for Christmas when he was fifteen. It reminded him of happier times. Slipping into his boots

and grabbing a less dusty Stetson, he quietly made his way down the back staircase, avoiding being seen by his dad or June. He didn’t want to answer questions about his attire. He wasn’t ready to share his feelings for Penny with anyone but her. Safely out of sight of the house, he jumped on Geronimo and headed toward the Anderson’s place. Before he even dismounted at the corral, he breathed in the tantalizing aroma of grilling steaks and saw a small plume of smoke coming from the backyard. The Andersons must be having a picnic. He’d come at the right time. His mouth watered in anticipation. He

tied Geronimo to the fence and hurriedly walked around the house. Gary stood turning a nice juicy T-Bone to perfection. He looked past the man to the wooden table where Penny sat, and stopped dead in his tracks like a horse encountering a rattler. Gary looked up from the barbeque. “Luke Walker. What a pleasant surprise. You don’t come around near often enough.” Penny’s father wiped his hands on his jeans and walked over to clasp Luke’s hand in welcome. “What brings you over our way?” Luke stood in silence, his hat in his hand, looking over at Penny sitting very close to a young man who had his arm

possessively draped over her shoulders. “Luke, this is Penny’s friend, Darrell, from Chicago.” Remembering his manners, Luke walked forward and extended his hand to the other man who hastily rose to his feet. “Nice to meet you,” Luke mumbled with no conviction. “What brings you to our neck of the woods?” What kind of game was Penny playing? Did she know that Darrell was coming today when she cuddled in his arms last night? This was the last thing he expected from her. Of course, he didn’t really know her any more, did he? Well, he wasn’t about to be a summer fling.

He watched Darrell return to his position beside Penny. “I missed this one. Had to come and see for myself these Colorado Mountains that she’s always talking about.” “Must be pretty impressive compared to the city.” “I guess. I can see why she wanted to get away to civilization.” Penny’s back bristled at Darrell’s words. She loved Peakview and her home. He was right though, she had wanted to get away—at least four years ago she had. And what was Luke doing here? This was a disaster. The way he was glaring at her. Why did Darrell have

to show up today of all days? She slid over slightly, dislodging Darrell’s arm from her shoulder. Her dad’s voice boomed, shaking her from her thoughts. “Join us, Luke. I have an extra T-bone with your name on it.” Have a seat. “I don’t want to intrude.” That’s right, please leave. Penny looked up into those blue eyes for the first time since he arrived. He didn’t understand. This wasn’t her fault. What she saw—hurt—mixed with anger made her want to crawl right under that picnic table as she had as a child. “Don’t be ridiculous.” Her mom’s voice rang out. “Come and sit here next

to me. You’re family. A Walker could never be an intrusion.” Luke slid next to Ann, and Gary plopped a huge steak in front of him. Penny sighed and tried to concentrate on her salad. “Great vegetables, as always, Mom.” “Yes, the salad is excellent, Mrs. Anderson.” Darrell looked over in disgust at the meat on the other plates. “So Luke, what do you do?” Penny jumped in to answer for Luke. She wasn’t sure why, other than that she sure didn’t relish a sparring match between these two. “Luke is our nearest neighbor. He and his father run a horse ranch just to the west. We’ve been

friends since we were kids.” “More than friends,” her mother added. “They dated all through high school.” Penny threw her mom a daggered look. Really, she had to add that? All eyes were on her. “That was a long time ago,” she said hastily. “But we’re still friends.” She glanced up to see that Luke’s blue eyes had turned from shallow calm pools into smoldering embers. She had to change the subject—fast. “Darrell has never ridden a horse. I’m planning a trail ride for him tomorrow to really show him the beauty of Peakview County.”

Luke looked over at the man sitting way too close to Penny. Ha, he’d like to be there to see that. Better have a gentle old horse, or this guy might get hurt. He probably doesn’t even have a pair of boots or a Stetson. If he’s what Penny wants…. “Only way to see this beautiful land is on horseback,” Luke said after he took another bite of the delicious steak. “Make sure you get a horse with some spirit. There’s nothing Penny likes more than a full out run on Ginger. Gary, this beef is wonderful.” He could almost feel Darrell’s discomfort at the idea of galloping across the countryside. Did they even

have horses in Chicago? Ann jumped in and changed the subject, asking about the school where Penny and Darrell would be teaching in a few weeks. Despite his dislike of this intruder, Luke had to admit that he admired what they’d be doing in the classroom. It sounded like those children really needed compassionate teachers, and Penny could be so caring. Likewise, Darrell seemed to truly care about his community. It was time for Luke to accept what he should have accepted four years ago and bow out of her life for good. Finishing the last of the food on his plate, Luke stood. “I best be getting

back. Early day tomorrow. Thanks for a delicious meal.” Ann smiled up at him. “You’re welcome. Any time. Don’t be a stranger. I’m sure we’ll see you again before Penny leaves for Chicago.” Gary and Ann stood up and each gave him a hug. Penny stayed where she was, staring down at her plate. Placing his hat back on his head, he tipped the brim. “Nice to meet you, Darrell.” “You too.” Darrell replied in a dull, flat voice. Luke didn’t dare look at Penny. Too many emotions swirling around inside of him. She’d always been able to read

him, ever since that day in the barn so many years ago. He didn’t need her picking up on his hurt and pain. Better she left Peakview and his life as soon as possible. Climbing back on Geronimo, he walked the horse calmly until he was sure he was out of sight, then spurred him into a fast gallop. The wind in his face always made him feel better. He didn’t slow down until the horse skidded to a halt in front of the Walker corral. “Whoa,” his dad said stepping out of the barn. “Who’s chasing you? It looks like you’re trying to outrun a whole gang of desperados.” He wished that was all it was.

Trying to outrun his emotions was a much harder task. Luke slid off the saddle. “What are you doing out here so late?” “Just cleaning up. Remember June and I are driving down to Denver International Airport tomorrow to pick up her daughter, Mary.” “That’s right. I forgot she was coming. Let me know if you need my help with anything.” “Just hold down the ranch while we’re gone. I’m trusting you’ll spare some time to show Mary around and make her feel at home.” “Sure thing, Dad. I’ll be happy to spend time with my new sister. I hope

she likes our ranch.” Unlike Penny these days. As he unsaddled and brushed down Geronimo, Luke smiled at the thought of his step-sister being at the ranch for a few weeks. He needed something to take his mind off of a certain little annoying blonde. Although he had only met Mary once, she seemed like she could be fun, and that was what he needed—someone his own age to pal around with. Maybe she could even give him some advice about re-entering the dating world. He’d get over Penny Anderson once and for all. ***

Penny rolled over and glanced at the clock for what seemed like the hundredth time since she had climbed in bed last night. Thankfully it read 7:00, and she could give up trying to sleep. Bandit wagged his tail and reached over to lick her face. “I’m glad you still love me.” She put her arms around the dog and drew her close to her face. I’m sure that Luke hates me now. Did he really think that she planned to be with him one night and then Darrell the next? The way he looked at her last evening had said it all. She hadn’t planned anything—not spending the night in his cabin and

definitely not Darrell showing up at her doorstep. Why was life so complicated? After all, she was going back to Chicago. Being with Luke again was a mistake, for both of them. It hadn’t accomplished anything except to bring up old feelings best forgotten. Then why had she spent the entire night dreaming of him instead of Darrell who was in a room just down the hall? She climbed out of bed and tried to mentally prepare herself for a day of riding with Darrell. Maybe he’d surprise her and enjoy it. Penny plastered her best smile on her face as she walked into the kitchen to find Darrell already chatting with her mom. None of this was his fault, and she

resolved to make the most of the rest of his visit. No, her heart didn’t beat faster at the sight of him, but maybe that was okay. It was time to give up childish fantasies. “Good morning. Ready to learn how to ride?” “Ready as I’ll ever be.” Darrell grinned. “I packed a sack lunch for the two of you,” her mom said. “I think Betsy would be a good fit for Darrell’s first ride.” Betsy was Ann’s horse. Over twenty but still sure-footed, she was great for new riders. “You’re the best. Thanks.” Penny leaned over and kissed Ann on the

cheek. Grabbing a quick cup of coffee, she turned to Darrell. “Let’s go.” Penny saddled both horses and packed her saddlebags. She adjusted Darrell’s stirrups and showed him the proper way to mount before climbing up on Ginger. After a brief lesson in the corral on how to hold the reins, signal the horse to start and stop, and how to sit in the saddle, she led the way out through the gate. She would head east along the ridge. Granted the views weren’t as spectacular as those to the west, but west was Walker Ranch, and she wanted to avoid any further run-ins with Luke. Darrell seemed to relax on the

gentle horse. The trail up the mountain narrowed and they had to ride single file, which didn’t lend itself to easy conversation. These mountains were so beautiful and peaceful. She missed them when she was away. They did something for her spirit. Gave her a sense of peace. They neared the top, and the trial widened. She pulled back on the reins to allow her guest ride up alongside. “So what do you think?” “Of the mountains or of riding?” “Both.” He looked at her fondly. “It’s very beautiful. I think my rear end may be sore for days from this saddle, but Betsy and I are getting along just fine. I’m glad

we did this. I can see how this will be a relaxing place for you to visit in the summers.” She was reminded of why she liked him. He could be so charming at times. They conversed casually and easily for the rest of the day. She worried that Darrell might bring up the subject of Luke, but he never mentioned him. She was content to let that go. *** Working side by side with Darrell on lesson plans for the upcoming school year, Penny remembered why she had become his friend. He was truly a caring

person and was going to have an impact in children’s lives. He cared so deeply about his neighborhood and community. She had no doubt that he’d one day make a great husband and father—to the right person. What she was starting to have doubts about was whether she could be that person. Even though the night with Luke was a mistake, she kept reliving the passion she experienced in every inch of her body when she was near him. She needed that. She suspected that even after thirty years together, her parents still had that spark. Surely there was someone in Chicago who could do that for her again. But for now, she tried to appreciate what she liked about Darrell.

Thankfully, there were no more encounters with Luke. By the time Darrell’s last evening in Colorado arrived, Penny felt like they were well prepared for the upcoming year, and she was ready to have some fun. “Maybe we should head to Aspen Ridge. It’s the next town over, a little bit bigger than Peakview. They have a restaurant and bar with a dance floor and live music. It can be a good time. Do you want to check it out?” “Sounds, like fun.” “Let’s go then.” Penny guided the Camaro out onto the highway. “Is this the direction I came when I

got here?” Darrell asked. “Yep, just head back out this way in the morning and stay on this road until you hit I-70. Take a left, and you’ll be back in Denver.” About halfway to the town, she rounded a curve and quickly slammed on her brakes to avoid a group of horseback riders making their way across the road. She saw about twenty children of varying ages clad in helmets, forming a line with a wrangler on each end. She could hear the sounds of laughter and joy rising from their midst. Where had they come from? Peaktop Guest Ranch was in the other direction. Looking off to her right, the front of the long line of horses

entered a wooden gate with a sign that read, Peak Adventure Camp. “I wonder what that place is? I don’t think I’ve ever seen it before.” Penny said more to herself than to her passenger. “Looks like some kind of a summer camp.” “I’ll have to remember to ask my mom about it.” The small dirt parking lot behind the Apple Creek Saloon was already crowded with many vehicles, mostly pickup trucks, when Penny pulled in a short time later. On a Friday night during the summer, it was the place to be in

Peakview County. She led the way into the semi-dark interior. Although smoking had not been allowed for quite some time, a faint smoky odor still permeated from the old rustic siding and farm implements—the décor here for as long as she could remember. “Interesting place,” Darrell remarked as they took a seat at an old wooden table with wobbly chairs. Over the years, people had carved their names into the tables with pride. She was pretty sure a “Penny heart Luke” was carved somewhere. Hopefully not at the table they had chosen. The band was warming up on the small stage, and the place was already loud with conversation.

“What do you think?” Penny yelled above the noise. “It’s different.” “They have the best burgers around.” She stopped short, remembering that Darrell didn’t eat meat. “Sorry, I’m sure their salads are good too.” A waitress, who looked as though she had been there as long as the building itself, took their order. Several people Penny had known since her childhood stopped by to talk. She smiled. Everything about Peakview County was so comforting—so natural. The last few days she’d been racking her brain to remember just why she had

wanted to get away so badly. These people were truly happy with their existence. Could she feel that way here again, too? The band began its first set of rowdy country songs, and since talking became nearly impossible, she turned her attention to the band. A line dance formed, and she grabbed Darrell and pulled him out on the floor. Although he stumbled to keep up, he was a good sport and laughed along with her. Finally a slow song started, and he looked relieved and pulled her into his arms. Penny leaned against his shoulder and swayed with the music as he held her close. Darrell had been good to her for

these past four years, but she felt as though she was dancing with a brother. No tingling—no warm fuzzies when he held her close. Why had she not seen this before? She needed some passion in her life. She longed to feel the way she did when Luke held her in his arms. When she got back to Chicago, she’d have the “just friends” talk with Darrell. She hoped he wouldn’t be hurt, but she needed to find someone she could fall madly in love with for life.

CHAPTER FIVE

Darrell left at the crack of dawn, and Penny sighed in relief as his car disappeared down the road. The next month would go by fast, and she needed some time to relax before the challenging year ahead. Knowing that Darrell had feelings for her she didn’t return made his visit awkward to say the least. She wanted to make things right with Luke. Unfortunately, she was at a

loss as to how to go about it. It was a beautiful morning—deep, blue Colorado sky without a cloud in sight. She breathed in the sweet aroma of pine as she saddled Ginger and set out for a ride. This time she headed west, she’d always ridden through Walker land, and there was no reason to stop now. Spurring Ginger across the meadow at a full gallop, she relished the wind in her hair and the warm sun on her face. Entering the hills on the other side, she slowed to a walk and wound her way up the steep path. At the top she dismounted and plopped down on the small marble bench. She knew Luke came here when he needed to think and

feel close to the mom he’d lost. Over the years, she started coming here, too. She hadn’t known Luke’s mom well. Penny was still a child when his mother passed, but somehow this place gave her peace. She softly began to mouth the thoughts on her mind into the breeze. “I know that I hurt Luke—again. I never meant to. It’s the last thing I ever wanted. How can I make things right with him? I don’t want him to hate me. I love him.” Whoa, where had that last sentence come from? She looked around nervously and was glad no one was there to hear her. She did love him, as a…what? That was the problem. Her feelings became

jumbled after that night she spent in the cabin. Was he just a friend or something more? She wished she knew. She sat for a while in silence until Ginger began to paw impatiently at the ground, then mounted and started back down the rocky, steep trail. She listened to the wind in the pines, as she felt the back and forth movement of her horse’s muscles as she made her way down the path. Reaching the edge of the clearing, she pulled up on her reins. There was the cabin. She couldn’t help but be curious as to what he’d accomplished since her last visit. Maybe she should ride up to the back side and have a peek in the windows. No harm there.

About to emerge from the cover of the trees, she heard the sound of horse hooves and laughter, so she held back. Heading across the meadow were two horses. As they drew closer she saw that it was Luke riding Geronimo with a girl close beside him on another horse. She had striking long, thick, brown hair and a pretty face. She threw her head back laughing at something Luke said. Luke laughed, too. They weren’t close enough for Penny to hear their words, but it was evident they were having a good time. Who the heck was he with? Penny knew almost everyone in Peakview County, and this girl didn’t look familiar. She fought the tentacles of jealousy that crept

up to her heart and threatened to strangle her. Had Luke moved on? Did he have a new girlfriend he failed to mention? She had no hold on Luke. Of course, he had the right to move on. But still…. She held Ginger’s reins tightly and remained in the shadows until they passed. Thank goodness they didn’t see her. All she wanted now was to get home. She spurred Ginger and flashed past the cabin, trying to leave her unexpected pain behind. *** As Penny sat drinking coffee with her mom the next morning, she couldn’t

help feeling restless. She needed something to occupy her time here, especially since Luke had apparently found someone to occupy his. “So Mom, when Darrell and I were driving to Aspen Ridge the other night, we had to stop for some kids on horses, and I noticed a sign saying Peak Adventure Camp. I don’t remember that place.” “Oh, that’s where the old Farley Ranch. It was vacant for some years, ever since Ted Farley died. Ryan and Willow Haywood purchased it, and are running some kind of summer camp. You remember Ryan, he played on the football team with Luke? And Willow

Green? They were a class or two ahead of you, I think.” “I do remember Ryan. Half back, Right? I knew him, but not well. I remember Willow too, but not sure we ever had a class together. They got married?” “Yes, I believe right after they graduated. I saw her at Violet’s the other day. They’re expecting their first child.” Their friends from high school were married and having children? That seemed like such a distant idea in her own life. Not that there wasn’t much else to do here in the mountains…but still. “Seems awfully young.” “I wouldn’t mind having a son-in-

law and a few grandchildren myself one of these days.” Her mom looked over at her hopefully. “Don’t get your hopes up just yet. I have to find the right guy first.” “That guy is not Darrell?” Penny noticed that her mom’s face lightened with the question. “You didn’t like him?” “It’s not that I didn’t like him, he just doesn’t seem right for my baby girl.” She reached over and patted Penny’s hand. “Don’t worry, I am not about to jump into anything.” You know, Luke Walker won’t stay single forever.”

“Mom. That’s the past. We’ve moved on. I’m happy for Ryan and Willow though. Maybe I’ll stop by and say hello.” *** Heading out for her daily ride, Penny rode away from Walker Ranch. She was in no mood to run into Luke and his friend again. She made her way down the trail by the creek and noticed it appeared well-worn from horse traffic. She decided to stop and see what this “Peak Adventure” was all about. She rode through the new wooden gate and headed down the rocky lane. As she

emerged from the trees, there was a cluster of small buildings filling the valley below, with a large barn and corral in the center. Sounds of laughter rose in the air. A scene of pandemonium played out in front of her as children of varying ages ran around in every direction. A couple of wranglers were in the corral hurriedly saddling horses. She walked Ginger up to what appeared to be the main building. An obviously pregnant woman was sweeping off the wide porch. “Willow?” Startled, the women looked up from her chore. “Well, Penny Anderson. How the

heck are you? It’s been ages.” Penny tied Ginger to the rail and walked onto the porch. “Yeah, probably since high school. My mom told me you and Ryan had purchased this place. Congratulations, by the way, on your marriage and the baby. When are you due?” She couldn’t help staring down at Willow’s large belly. “Early October. It’s a boy. We’re very excited. What about you? I heard you went to school back east somewhere?” “Chicago. I graduated in May with a degree in Education. I start teaching there in an inner city school in a few weeks. What have you been up to since

high school besides the obvious?” “Ryan and I got married the summer we graduated and then headed to the University of Denver in the fall. We spent a lot of time working with inner city youth and trying to find ways to help. Shortly before we finished college, Ryan’s grandfather passed away and left him some money. We decided to buy this place.” “What exactly is Peak Adventure?” “It’s our attempt to help inner city youth. Get them out of the city for a couple of weeks and into our beautiful mountains. We cater to kids in minor trouble with the law, kids with family issues, and kids in foster care. Some of

these campers have never been outside of the city before coming here. It’s amazing what a couple of weeks away from home, in the fresh air, and around horses does for their whole outlook on life. Maybe we don’t have a permanent impact, but at least we give them a break from their harsh lives. The hope is that they’re able to take some of what they learn here back home. Time will tell.” “Willow, this is a marvelous thing you’re doing. Where do you get your campers? I bet we have kids in Chicago who’d absolutely love it here.” “Right now, we only have kids from Denver, but we hope to expand nationwide. Of course, our kids can’t

pay to come, so we have to depend on grants and donations. We pick the campers up in Denver. If we expanded, we’d have to think about transportation costs as well.” “Are you only open in the summer?” “Last summer was our first year. We closed at the end of summer and spent the winter fixing the holes in the place. This year we wanted to stay open year round. You know, have tubing, sledding, snow shoeing, cross country skiing in the winter months, but now with our son coming in October, I don’t think we’ll pull it off. Most of our staff are college students, who leave in the fall. Maybe next year.” Willow looked wistful.

“Is that Penny Anderson, I see?” Ryan walked up to the porch and picked her up in a tight hug. “How long has it been?” “Too long. It’s good to see you, Ryan. Willow was just telling me about your camp.” “What have you been up to? Are you back in Peakview? How’s Luke?” Willow lovingly placed her arm around her husband. “Slow down, honey. Ask her one question at a time.” Penny smiled. There’s the kind of relationship she wanted. She explained about Chicago, the work she’d be doing, and that she was home for the summer. “I haven’t seen much of Luke. He and I

were over a long time ago.” “That’s too bad. You two always seemed so perfect together. Weren’t you voted ‘most likely to get married’ in the yearbook?” “Things change.” Not knowing what else to say, she changed the subject. “So, I was wondering if you could use any volunteer help? I have four more weeks of vacation, and I’m starting to go stir crazy.” Ryan smiled. “Are you serious? We’d love to have you. Willow’s not going on as many rides now that she is near the end of her pregnancy, and I could sure use another wrangler with her own horse. How does that sound?”

“Perfect. When can I start?” “We have a new group of campers arriving for two weeks on Sunday. Could you start Monday morning? The campers really get attached to the staff so starting with a new group would work best.” “I’ll be back Monday then.” Penny smiled and waved as she swung up on Ginger and headed back up the lane. She loved working with kids, and getting to do so right here in Peakview was a bonus. She couldn’t wait for next week to begin. Plus, being busy would take her mind off of Luke. ***

Luke trudged up the steep incline from the main ranch to his cabin. It had been a long day. They were breaking a couple of new colts, and it took a lot of patience. He’d been thrown into the dusty corral several times since morning. Working with horses could be hard work, but it was rewarding when one finally caught on and everything started to click. Horses were such intelligent animals. Maybe smarter than most humans he knew. He couldn’t imagine doing anything else with his life. He walked across the newly-stained porch and into the coolness of his log home. Now that the plumbing and

electricity were in, he was staying here full time. He still needed to paint the interior and buy furniture, but for him it was livable. He liked having his own space. He wasn’t much of a cook, but knew he was still welcome at his parents for dinner anytime, and June always sent home leftovers. After heating some of them in the microwave, he grabbed a beer and headed out to the deck on the rear of the cabin to watch the sun go down. He loved the quiet, the sound of the wind in the pines, still— he’d always imagined the sounds of laughter and children playing. Maybe he should get a dog. He startled as he heard the creak of

a floor board and looked up to see Mary walk around the corner of the house. “Hey, Luke. Care if I join you?” His sister sat down on the railing beside him. “It sure is beautiful up here in the evening. “Want a beer? There’s plenty in the fridge.” Mary stood back up. “Don’t get up. I’ll grab one for myself. Luke had really enjoyed having his new sister here these past couple of weeks. Since he had grown up with only a brother, he hadn’t known what to expect, but she was fun and always ready for adventure. She fit right in at the ranch. As much as he loved his father

and June, it was nice to have someone his age around. He smiled as she walked back out on the porch clad in western jeans, boots and a hat. She looked the part of a Colorado cowgirl. “Luke, you need a wife and some kids to share this place.” He coughed as he choked on his beer. “I’m thinking about getting a dog. A friend of mine from high school has some German Shepherd pups that will be ready for new homes soon.” “Well that would be nice. But seriously, do you have a special girl in your life? I don’t picture you as the hermit type.” “Nope, not since high school. Penny

moved to Chicago and left me and my bruised heart in the dust.” “Mom mentioned something about her. Isn’t she back for the summer?” “Yeah. But she’s going back to Chicago soon. She has a teaching job starting in August.” He stopped talking. Penny was leaving again. He didn’t talk about his feelings much. There wasn’t really anyone he trusted enough to share personal stuff. But Mary, she was easy to talk to, maybe she could give him some insight. He inhaled deeply. “I thought there might still be something between us when she first got back, but now I don’t think so. Women are confusing.” Mary laughed. “Not any more than

men. What happened? Did you talk to her about your feelings?” “Nah. She came by one night—I thought there might be a spark. I was going to try and talk to her, but then her boyfriend from Chicago showed up.” “Ouch. Is he still here?” “Don’t know. It’s probably for the best. Could you picture me in Chicago? I don’t want to rob her of her dreams. She loves working with inner city kids. It’s just not meant to be.” “You should get out there. Find someone new. You’re a great catch.” Luke could feel his cheeks warm. “Thanks, sis. Maybe I’ll start dating again.” This was too hard to talk about.

“So how about you? Any guys in your life?” “Not at the moment. I’ve spent too much time traveling the past few years to get attached to anyone. Maybe I should move out here and look for a cowboy.” Mary winked. “Let me know, I have some friends from high school who are still available. A woman could do worse than becoming a rancher’s wife.” Long after Mary headed down to the main house, Luke sat on the porch gazing up at the stars. Why couldn’t he get Penny out of his head? She was history. He did enjoy company of the female variety though. Maybe he should start

dating. Surely there were a few eligible girls his age still around. He needed to get out more. Or maybe he needed to call John and see about a puppy.

CHAPTER SIX

Penny hummed as she saddled Ginger on Monday. She was excited to start the week at Peak Adventure. She’d missed working with children this summer. She swung her leg up over the saddle, and calling Bandit to follow, took off at an easy lope toward the camp. She shivered. Even at the end of June, the air in Peakview County was brisk in the early morning hours.

Crossing the highway, she slowed Ginger to a walk and headed down the steep trail which led to the winding path along the river. The fragrance of pine pungent from the dew still clinging to the branches. She breathed in deeply, inhaling the smells of home. Bandit let out a small yelp of joy and raced ahead, no doubt after some unsuspecting rabbit. The sun’s rays spread warmth in the patches where they peeked through the trees. As the camp buildings came into view, the happy sounds of children’s laughter interrupted nature’s calm. Tying Ginger to the hitching rail in front of the main lodge, Penny made her way to the corral where the group of

twenty-five new campers assembled. Okay, assembled might be stretching it. At least they were all in the confines of the large enclosure. A ragtag bunch of children ranging in age from 8 to 18 milled around. Some running and yelling, some climbing on the fences, others stood quietly to the side, looking uncomfortable and shy. A few stared defiantly, like they’d rather be anywhere else than here. Penny opened the gate and slipped in, careful not the let anyone out in the process, and walked over to where Ryan and Willow were talking with other staff members. “Mornin’.”

“Good morning to you.” Willow gave her a hug. “Welcome to the first day of our new camp session. Always crazy at first.” She turned to the small group of counselors. “Everyone, this is Penny Anderson. She’s going to be helping out the next few weeks.” She turned back to Penny. “We’re getting ready for the first ride. We’ll break the children into two smaller groups—one for those who are older or have some riding experience and a second for those who are younger and may need more help. Penny, I’m going to have you ride with the younger group along with Ryan and Tad.” A nice looking young man with a huge smile shook her hand. “I’m Tad. It’s

nice to meet you. Welcome to the zoo.” Penny watched Willow and a couple others efficiently split the mob into two and herd the older group toward the barn. Eleven kids remained in her group. Ryan asked them to take seats on the benches surrounding the corral as he turned and lead a horse toward them. Penny followed the group over to the benches, noticing a small girl sitting off to the side by herself with tears forming in her eyes. She was dressed in a pink Peak Adventure t-shirt and ball cap, the official uniform of the camp. Her blue jeans were full of holes —not the kind that are put there to be fashionable. The small tennis shoes on

her feet looked as though they’d been on their last legs before being handed down to her. Her thick, dark hair stuck out of the back of her cap in a long ponytail. Penny took the seat next to her. “Hi. I’m Penny. What’s your name?” “Marissa,” she said in a barely audible voice. “It’s nice to meet you, Marissa. Are you excited about getting to ride a horse?” “I…I don’t know. They’re really big.” Her anxious eyes looked up at Penny. Penny pulled her onto her lap. “Horses are really nice. That’s my horse over there.” Penny pointed to where Ginger stood calmly at the rail.

As if sensing the child’s distress, Bandit put her paws up on Marissa’s lap and wagged her stub of a tail. “Do you like dogs?” “I’ve never had a pet.” The small voice squeaked. “Meet Bandit. She loves everyone.” The child leaned down to pat her head and Bandit licked her cheek. Marissa giggled. Leave it to her dog to be able to break the ice better than Penny had been able to. She directed the child’s attention to Ryan who was explaining the parts of the horse and the saddle. “Never walk up behind a horse or make any sudden movements. You don’t want to get kicked. Horses are

very nice animals, but if you scare them, they might react.” He demonstrated how to get in the saddle and hold the reins. Marissa’s dark brown eyes got wider and wider. “Don’t worry. We’ll find you a very small gentle horse.” Instinctively she hugged the small girl to her side. “Have you been to the mountains before?” “Nope.” “I live here. Where do you live?” The child looked hesitantly down at her feet. “I just moved so I don’t know the address yet. Somewhere in Denver, Colorado.” “I’m so glad you are here. Can we be friends?”

The child nodded. “Good. Let’s find you a horse to also be your friend.” She grabbed the child’s hand and walked over to where Ryan and Tad matched kids with horses. “Marissa would like a very nice and very small horse, please,” she said with a grin. “One small, nice horse coming right up.” Ryan smiled at the child. He turned to Penny. “Little Joe should be prefect for her.” He pointed to a small black and white Pinto, who looked considerably past his prime—the hairs on his muzzle fading to gray. Penny led Marissa over to where the small horse stood, looking half

asleep. “Pet his face and let him know you’re his friend.” The child reached up tentatively. “He’s soft.” She smiled. After checking the cinch, Penny helped Marissa climb into the saddle and adjusted the stirrups. All around them, the other children also mounted their horses. “Don’t leave me,” Marissa pleaded. “I won’t. I promise.” Penny grabbed Little Joe’s lead rope. “I’m going to hang right on to this rope until you feel comfortable with me letting go.” With that, she led the horse into the corral and began to walk slowly around the edge, giving instructions and encouragement as

they went. Some of the rest of the staff members were doing the same thing with other children. Ryan, having successfully saddled the entire group, walked up beside them. “Marissa, how are you and Little Joe getting along?” Marissa beamed down at him. “He is my new friend and so is Penny.” Turning to Penny, Ryan added, “The plan is to mainly stay in the corral this morning. Let the kids get used to their horses. If all goes well, we’ll take a short trail ride at the end.” Penny led Little Joe around the enclosure a few more times, watching Marissa visably relax. “You’re doing

such a great job! Do you think you can handle him yourself, so I can go get Ginger and ride with you?” “Yep.” Marissa exuded confidence at her new found skill and fell in line behind the other campers. Penny walked over to Ginger. She couldn’t help wondering about her new friend’s circumstances. She’d make sure to ask Willow about the child later. The next few hours flew by. By the end of the morning session, all of the campers were controlling their horses well enough to leave the corral and ride a circle around the camp itself. Lunch was a picnic in the meadow, with lots of laughter and silliness going on. Marissa

sat by Penny’s side, but by the end of the meal started giggling with the other little girls around them. In the afternoon, they took a short trail ride down by the river and during a break let the kids take off their shoes and wade in the icy water. By the time they rode back up to the barn, Penny needed a break. After hugging the girls and sending them to the craft cabin where some other counselors would lead them in a quiet activity, Penny helped unsaddle and brush down the horses, before walking over to the lodge in search of Willow. As she walked into the cool interior, Willow looked up from the mound of paperwork on her desk.

“How did your first day go?” “Great. I think. I fell in love with each and every child.” “That’s the risk of this job. They all need more love than we can give them. Some of them don’t get much of it at home.” “What’s Marissa’s story?” “I saw that she’d latched on to you. It’s very sad. Dad’s been in prison for years. I’m not sure she even remembers him, which in her case could be a blessing. I hear he wasn’t a nice guy. Mom’s into drugs way more than she’s into raising a child. From what I understand, she’s been on and off the wagon more times than we could count.

Thankfully, Grandma was there to step in and take care of Marissa when her daughter was too high or drunk. Mom finally disappeared a couple of years ago, and Marissa lived fulltime with Grandma. Grandma didn’t have much money or education, but she did manage to keep a roof over the child’s head and get her to school. That is, until a couple of months ago when Grandma became ill. Social workers were called by the her teacher because Marissa reported she only ate at school. Grandma is now in a nursing home, and Marissa was placed in a foster home a couple of weeks ago. I don’t think she’s had time to adjust yet. Fortunately we were able

to get funding to bring her here for a couple weeks of fun. There hasn’t been much of that in her life recently—maybe ever.” “That explains a lot.” Penny felt tears forming in her eyes for her sweet, little friend. Having grown up an only child with two amazing parents, it was hard to fathom what this child had been through. She prayed that in some small way she’d be able to help her during these next couple of weeks. “We do what we can for them and try not to let it overwhelm us.” Willow rubbed her pregnant belly. “You can be done for the day, now that the rides are finished. Thank you so much. Can we

count on you coming back tomorrow?” “I wouldn’t miss it. See you bright and early.” As she turned Ginger toward home, her heart broke for all the neglected or mistreated children. She was reaffirmed in the knowledge that her life’s work needed to be about making the world a better place—one child at a time. *** After letting Ginger out in the pasture for the night, instead of being tired from all of the activity at camp, Penny felt energized. She glanced at her watch and since it was only 3:30, she

decided to drive into Peakview. Several of the children had asked her about the different flowers and rocks along their ride. She had to admit that although she was familiar with some of Colorado’s wildflowers, such as the bright, red Indian Paint Brush and the white and purple Columbines, there were still many she didn’t know by name. She’d noticed the new bookstore in town. It was about time she stopped by and looked around. Maybe she could find some books to help identify the beauty of nature for the children. Her Camaro rounded the curve into town, and there it was—Luke’s unmistakable red pickup parked in front

of the hardware store. Her heart clenched. Would she ever be able to see him and not have a reaction? She pushed the gas harder and sped the remaining few hundred feet to the bookstore. She wasn’t going to let him spoil her good mood today. She quickly parked and entered the store before there could be a chance encounter. “Welcome to Sophie’s.” A petite blond who looked not much older than herself smiled. “I’m Melanie.” “Penny Anderson,” she replied extending her hand. “Oh, you must be Ann and Gary’s daughter.” “Yep, that’s me.”

“It’s so nice to meet you. I just love your parents. You live in Chicago, right? Home for a visit?” “Just for a few weeks, before I start my new job.” “What can I do for you today? Do you need a good romance to read while you’re relaxing? I have some great ones with ranches and Colorado cowboys as heroes.” Penny smiled. She liked Melanie already. “As great as that sounds, what I’m looking for right now is a couple of books with pictures of native Colorado wildflowers and rocks. I’m volunteering over at Peak Adventure Camp, and as much as I hate to admit it since I was

born and raised here, I still don’t know all the names. The kids have been asking.” “You’re in luck. I cater to summer tourists so I have a whole section of Colorado information books—flowers, birds, wildlife, rocks—you name it.” She led Penny over to a book shelf jammed full of books. “Help yourself. Would you like a glass of iced tea?” “That would be great, if it’s not any trouble.” By the time Penny picked out a couple of suitable books with bright colored pictures, Melanie returned from the kitchen and placed two glasses of tea on one of the small round reading tables.

“Have a seat, if you’re not in a rush.” Penny pulled out a chair and sat down. “You’re Howard’s daughter, I hear.” “Yep, it’s a long story. My whole life, I thought my dad deserted me— didn’t want me. That’s what my mom led me to believe. After she died, I became consumed by wanting to find him. My search eventually led me here. Turns out, Howard hadn’t even known that Mom was pregnant when he left. He’s a wonderful man. I couldn’t ask for a better father. He almost single-handedly remodeled this old place. And Sophie, my daughter, adores him.” “Your daughter?”

“The love of my life. She’s thirteen going on twenty-one. She loves it here in Peakview.” “Peakview is lucky to have you. You turned an eyesore into a beautiful addition to the town. Your store is wonderful.” “Thanks. Business has been going pretty well this summer. We’ll see what happens in the fall when tourist season ends. Enough about me. Are you enjoying your summer at home? Did I hear that you and Luke Walker are an item? He sure is a nice guy—handsome too.” Penny felt her cheeks warm. “Not any more. We dated in high school,

before I left for Chicago. That was a long time ago.” “Too bad. I’ve seen that cabin he’s building. It looks made for a family.” Penny didn’t know why, but she had a feeling that Melanie was someone she could confide it. And she needed that. She’d experienced so many mixed emotions regarding Luke since she came home. She really needed to process them. Tears welled up in her eyes. “To tell you the truth, I don’t know how I feel about him. I’ve tried to forget him, really I have. It’s just that no one else makes me feel the way he does. We shared a moment when I first got back a few weeks ago. I thought there might still

be a chance for us.” “What happened?” Melanie handed her a box of tissues. “I don’t know. I wanted to talk things out with him and then Darrell, my friend from Chicago, showed up unexpectedly, and Luke got the wrong idea and now I’ve seen him several times with another girl. I don’t know who she is but I guess he’s moved on. Doesn’t really matter anyway, I’m headed back to Chicago soon. Luke would never leave the Walker Ranch. So that’s that.” “My advice—if it’s meant to be, there’s always a way to work things out. If he’s your soulmate, don’t give up. I

didn’t give up on my dad, and I’m happier than I even thought possible. Miracles do happen. And take it from someone who grew up in big cities, there’s no better place to live than little old Peakview.” Penny smiled and dried her eyes, feeling much better. “How about you? Any cowboys in your life?” Melanie smiled shyly. “Not really, but can you keep a secret?” “I just bared my soul to you, so we’re good.” “There’s a wrangler up at Peaktop Ranch, Hank. He seems really nice, although I don’t know much about him.” “Oh, I like Hank. He’s been there

awhile. I believe since I was in junior high. I don’t know anything about his personal life. I could ask around and see what I can find out for you.” Melanie’s face lit up. “You know, I bet I could find out who Luke has been hanging out with without raising suspicion. Nothing that happens in this county gets by my new step-mom. They both laughed. Violet did keep tabs on her community. Penny got up to leave. “This has been fun. We should do it again soon. What do I owe you for the books and the ice tea?” “The books are marked on the back. The tea is just between friends. I’d never

want to compete with the café by selling beverages. Not when Violet’s been so wonderful to me.” Penny drove out of town with a smile on her face. Luke’s truck was gone —confrontation averted for now. And she’d made a new friend. She’s see what she could find out about Hank. After all, concentrating someone else’s love life would be so much easier than worrying about her own.

CHAPTER SEVEN

Luke spotted the Camaro parked down the street as he loaded the supplies in the back of his pickup. Dang that Penny. Why couldn’t he get her out of his head? He threw in the bag of puppy chow and the new, shiny dog bowls. He was headed out to John’s right now to look at the litter of German Shepherd puppies. If all went well, he’d have a new best friend by nightfall.

He headed north out of town toward Apple Creek, willing himself not to look over at the little red Camaro as he passed. He hadn’t talked to her since the night of her parent’s barbeque. Apparently she had nothing to say to him, he’d been around if she wanted to find him. The past—that’s all she was. He turned into the lane across the road from the creek and memories flooded his brain. John had lived on the small farm since they played football in high school. A couple of years ago, John’s mom developed some health problems, and his parents moved down to Fort Collins to be closer to her doctors and medical facilities. Now

John lived here with his lovely wife Trish and their little girl Emma. Luke sometimes envied his friend’s family life. He stopped his truck, as Trish walked out of the house with Emma in tow. “Luke.” The little girl squealed with delight launching herself into his outstretched arms. He swung her around in a full circle. Putting her back on the ground, he placed his hand on the top of her blonde curls. “You’ve grown since the last time I saw you.” Emma grinned showing off her new teeth. “I’m two now. That’s big.”

“It sure is. Do you want to show me your puppies?” “Yup,” she said jumping up and down with delight. “They’re in the horse barn,” Trish added. “John’s down there somewhere, too.” They walked toward the weatherworn barn with Emma holding his hand and pulling with all of her twoyear-old muscle. “Come on…” Luke grabbed the edge of the old faded red door and pushed it to the side allowing a wave of cool air to escape from the dim interior. As his eyes adjusted to the light, he saw John in the far stall brushing one of the horses.

“Luke. What brings you out here?” John set aside the curry comb and walked out to greet him. “Daddy, he wants to see the puppies. I do, too.” John laughed. His daughter would spend all day and all night in the stall with the puppies if they let her. He led the way to a stall filled with fragrant hay and opened the gate. Gypsy, the mother Shepherd, looked up protectively as four balls of brown and black fur came bounding over to greet them. Emma giggled and plopped down in the hay, as the furry balls surrounded her and covered her face in wet kisses. Luke squatted beside the child and

held out his hand. The biggest of the bunch left his siblings to climb up on his knee and look him squarely in the eyes, his whole body wagging in delight. That was it. Just like that, Luke lost his heart for the first time since that long ago day in the barn with Penny. “That’s Brutus. He was the first born.” Luke scooped the squirming mass into his arms and let him lick his face. “Hey Brutus.” The name seemed to fit him. He set Brutus back down so the pup could join in the wrestling match that had erupted between the other three puppies. But instead of joining his litter mates, Brutus followed Luke over to

where he rejoined John at the edge of the stall and began chewing on the toe of his cowboy boot. Luke moved his leg around slowly and Brutus barked and tried to maintain his hold on his new found toy. “Brutus likes you,” Emma said. “Are they all still available?” Luke asked. Not that he cared about the other three, his mind was made up the moment he saw Brutus. He looked down at the puppy by his feet. “All except for the smallest female over there. They turned eight weeks yesterday, so they’re ready to go to their new homes.” “In that case, I’d better take Brutus,

since he appears to be permanently attached to my boot.” Emma looked up, tears starting to well up in her eyes. “What? You’re taking Brutus away?” John leaned down and gently put his arm on his daughter’s shoulder. “Honey, you remember we talked about this. The puppies are going to go to their new families so they can be their dogs just like Gypsy is our dog. Luke will be Brutus’ new family.” “I know.” She frowned as she settled in her dad’s lap. “But I’ll miss them.” Luke looked over at the child. He knew how hard it was to lose someone

you loved. “You can come and visit him anytime you want.” After talking price with John, Luke handed Brutus to Emma as he walked out to his truck to get his checkbook. “Here, you say goodbye to him while I pay your dad.” The child reluctantly followed them into the yard, holding tight to her squirming bundle. Luke had put a cardboard box with a towel in the bottom in the passenger seat of his truck—just in case. After one last tearful hug from the child, he picked up his new roommate and set him in the box. “Thanks, John. I’ll talk to you soon.

Emma, you come visit any time.” Luke climbed in the driver’s side and looked over at the pup who was already chewing on the edge of the box. “I’m going to have to invest in some chew toys, before you eat everything I own.” He rubbed his friend’s head. He put the truck in gear, but only got about ten feet down the road, when the box tipped on its side and Brutus quickly wiggled onto his lap, his head looking out at the road through the steering wheel. Luke’s heart warmed even more. “Okay, little buddy, you can sit here for today, but we both know that you’re going to get too big to do this before long.”

As he drove back through Peakview, he noticed that the Camaro was no longer there. Penny would love this little bundle he held in his arms. They used to talk about having pets— lots of pets. He looked down. Brutus had laid his head on Luke’s lap, no doubt worn out from his adventure. It was nice to feel love again, even if it was from a dog. *** Penny loved her first two weeks of working at Peak Adventure. She felt alive again—she was making a difference. All of the campers had stolen

her heart, especially little Marissa. Gradually, she watched the child open up more and more, like a small flower just beginning to bloom. The books she purchased from Melanie were a hit. Each day the campers found more flowers to identify. It became a game with the group of younger girls, who named their group, the Columbines, after their favorite, the state flower of Colorado. Penny awarded a small prize each time one of the campers discovered a new flower. Working with kids was as tiring as it was rewarding. She didn’t know how Ryan and Willow did it, being there twenty-four hours a day. At least she got

to go home and relax each evening. Teaching would be like this in the fall, and she had to admit she was looking forward it—getting to spend an entire year with her students. This camp session was already almost over, and she dreaded saying goodbye to these youngsters. As she was saying goodnight to her campers for the night amid many tiny hugs and promises that she’d be back in the morning, Ryan walked up and put his hand around her shoulder. “Can you stop up at the office for a minute before you head out?” “Sure thing, boss.” Penny watched apprehensively as he walked away.

What was that about? She thought she had been doing a good job this week. She hoped everything was okay. She broke away from her small herd of admirers and headed to the office. “Hey, Willow. What’s up? Ryan wanted to talk to me?” Ryan walked out the back room, fresh mug of coffee in his hand. “So Penny, do you have plans on Saturday? I know it’s the 4th of July, and we totally understand if you want to be with your family.” “No, I don’t think we have much going on. Of course, I was planning on heading into town at dusk for the fireworks. My parents will probably be

by the lake at the Peakview picnic most of the day. What’s happening here at the camp?” “We’re thinking about doing a special rodeo. Let the kids deck themselves and the horses out in red, white, and blue and do a big parade into the arena. Thought I’d do some calf roping, and you could show off your barrel racing skills.” Penny laughed. “I’d be happy to, but I’m afraid I’m a bit rusty. I haven’t competed for over four years, not since high school.” “Relax, you don’t have to be a pro here. None of these kids have ever seen a rodeo before. I have one more favor to

ask.” “Anything you need.” “The kids would really enjoy seeing some of Luke’s rope tricks. Could you stop by the Walker Ranch and ask him to help us out?” One hundred and one excuses ran through her brain. She had no idea what kind of terms she and Luke were on these days. But this was for the kids, and from what she remembered, Luke’s tricks were amazing. The kids would love it. She sighed. “No problem. I’ll stop over tonight, and see if I can find him.” ***

Her mom stood in the kitchen shucking sweet corn when Penny got back from camp. “Hi, Mom.” “Hi Honey. Dinner is almost ready.” “It smells wonderful.” She gave her mom a kiss on the cheek. “Is there time for me to have a quick shower before dinner? I got pretty dusty today.” “Take your time. Your dad won’t be back from town for another half hour or so.” Penny made her way up the back stairs to her room. She glanced in the mirror. She was covered in red Colorado dirt. Not the best look for

asking for a favor. She climbed in the shower and watched as the grime melted in small brown rivers of water running down her legs. Her thoughts turned to Luke. He’d always been good with kids. Surely he’d help out, wouldn’t he? That is unless he had holiday plans with that brunette. Well, she’d find out tonight. She prayed she’d find him alone when she got there. She wasn’t trying to impress him, really she wasn’t, but she did put on a nice form-fitting western style blouse and her killer jeans that accentuated her thin figure. She blow-dried her long hair and put a few curls in the ends, and finally spritzed on a small amount to

perfume. She hadn’t dressed up much recently, and it felt good. This was for her, not Luke. “My, don’t you look nice,” Ann said as Penny re-entered the kitchen. “Are you going out later?” “No. I just felt like looking like a girl for a change. I have to ride over to the Walker’s after dinner and ask Luke to help us out at the camp on the Fourth. “Luke would have to be blind not to appreciate how nice you look tonight.” Her dad winked at her. “You tell him I said so.” Penny blushed. All she’d ever wanted was to find a man who loved her as much as Dad. Once she thought she’d

found that in Luke, but that was a lifetime ago. After another amazing garden-fresh meal with her parents, she saddled Ginger, called Bandit to follow, and rode west into the setting sun. She looked down at the reins starting to shake in her hands. What was she nervous about? It was just Luke. Still… if he was there playing house with another woman…she didn’t know if she could handle it. Penny took her time, holding Ginger back from a run. She let out a deep breath as the cabin came into view. The porch light was on, and the rooms inside seemed to be lit also. He must be home.

No avoiding this now. As she entered the clearing, Bandit’s ears went up and she let out a welcoming bark. All of a sudden a flash of brown and black fur, yipping in joy, charged down from the porch and greeted Bandit with its entire body wiggling. “Brutus, come.” Luke’s attempt at a stern voice rang out. Penny laughed. That had to be the cutest puppy she’d ever seen. “Where did you come from boy?” She dismounted, tied Ginger to the railing, and knelt down to be engulfed by puppy kisses. Luke walked down off the porch. “I

see you met Brutus. Sorry he doesn’t have very good manners yet.” “He’s adorable! Is he yours?” “Yep. Got him on Monday.” Apparently bored with humans, Brutus turned his attention back to Bandit in a game of tug with a stick. Penny followed Luke up onto the porch. God, he looked sexy tonight, in a clean white T-shirt over soft, tight jeans, his hair wet as though he just got out of the shower himself. He stopped and turned back to her arching his eyebrows. “What brings you over here tonight?” Before she could answer, the cabin door swung open and out walked the

gorgeous brunette with two cold beers in her hands. “I didn’t know we had company. You must be Penny.” The girl handed a beer to Luke and wiping it on her jeans, stuck out her hand. Penny was definitely at a disadvantage here. The girl obviously knew who she was, but she had no idea as to Luke’s friend’s identity. “And you are?” Luke cleared his throat. “Penny, this is Mary.” She struggled to regain her composure. “How do you know Luke?” Luke laughed. She failed to see anything funny about this situation. She

glared at him. “This is my sister. June’s oldest daughter. I figured you knew she was here.” Penny felt her face warm, sure that it glowed now a brilliant shade of beet red. How embarrassing. She’d let her jealousy show when there was no foundation for it at all. She must look like a complete fool. Her mom told her that June had daughters. Why hadn’t she thought of that instead of jumping to the conclusion that Luke had a new girlfriend? And why did she care so much anyway? Luke handed his untouched beer to her and retreated into the cabin to grab

another for himself. She touched the icy bottle to her cheek, trying to cool away her burning face. “It sure is nice to finally meet. Luke told me all about you. I was afraid that I’d go back to Ohio without ever getting to know you.” Penny took a long swig of the beverage and sat down in one of the Adirondack chairs. What exactly has Luke told his new sister? “It’s nice to meet you, too. Are you here for the whole summer?” “No, I’m off to my dad’s for a few weeks, and then I start grad school at Ohio State. I’ve loved my time here. I hate to leave. Luke even taught me to

ride a horse.” “Well, good luck to you. I leave in a few more weeks myself to start my teaching job in Chicago.” Luke rejoined them and perched himself on the porch railing his long legs crossed in front of him. He looked sexy tonight—too sexy. Her heart skipped a beat. She looked away, trying to calm her raging hormones, and saw a deer walk out of the trees into the edge of the clearing. Brutus saw it too, and flew off the porch barking as he ran. “Brutus! Come!” Luke charged off the porch after him and disappeared into the trees. She glanced over at Mary who

laughed as hard as she did. “Luke is going to have his hands full with that one.” They both stared into the forest, looking for signs of the man and his dog. Penny startled as Mary reached her hand over and laid it on her arm. “I wish I had more time to get to know you this trip. He cares about you, you know.” “I care about him, too. It’s complicated. My job’s in Chicago. He belongs here. It’s impossible.” “Love is never impossible.” Mary squeezed her hand and laughed as Luke reappeared—a wiggling puppy thrown over his shoulder. “That’s a well-trained dog you have there.” Penny looked down at Bandit,

lying at her feet half asleep. Luke set the puppy down on the porch. “STAY. Don’t forget, I remember when you first brought Bandit home. It took some time to train her, too.” “You’re right. Have fun with that.” Once Luke regained his breath, he looked over at the stunning blonde sitting on his porch. Why had she come? “So is there a reason for your visit tonight?” “As a matter of fact there is. I need a favor. I’ve been volunteering over at Peak Adventure Camp. You know Ryan and Willow’s place.” “Yeah, I heard they had a camp going over there. I saw Ryan a few

weeks ago at Violet’s.” “It’s wonderful. They bring city kids with family or other issues who can’t afford a regular camp up for a couple of weeks. The kids love it.” No wonder she wanted to be a teacher. Her eyes lit up like stars when she talked about the kids. “We’re putting on a little rodeo for the campers on Saturday afternoon, and Ryan wanted to know if you’d come and show them some of your rope tricks? I know its short notice. We’ll understand if you have other plans.” “I can make it work. I don’t know how good I am these days. I haven’t practiced much recently. I’ll need to

bring my monster with me, if that’s okay. He tends to destroy things if he’s left alone in the cabin. Teething.” He smiled down at Brutus who was chewing a stick into tiny pieces. “I can see that. Mary, you’re welcome to come, too.” “Thanks, but I’m actually leaving tomorrow afternoon. Just came up to say goodbye to my favorite brother and thank him for entertaining me these past few weeks. I hope we can get to know each other better when I’m back for the holidays.” “I’d like that. If I make it home.” Penny stood up and gave Mary a hug. Luke was going to miss his new

sister. He enjoyed her company. She’d managed to take his mind off Penny for a little while. He smiled as she threw herself into his arms and gave him a huge kiss on the cheek. “I’m going to miss you, bro. Keep in touch. And Penny, keep him and Brutus out of trouble.” “I’ll see you in the morning before you leave.” Luke watched his sister until he saw her walk onto the porch of the main ranch house and then turned back to Penny. It took his breath away seeing her sitting on his porch—the porch she’d designed for them. Brutus had wormed his way into her lap and had fallen asleep his head against her chest. Lucky

dog. He smiled imagining laying his own head in her lap. “What? Penny looked at him suspiciously. “Nothing. I see my dog has charmed you already.” “He’s a sweetheart.” “Yeah, when he’s asleep.” It felt too natural sitting on his porch, she needed to leave before she decided to stay. Hugging the sleeping puppy to her chest, she stood up and carefully handed him over to Luke. “I need to get home and get some rest. Tomorrow is another busy day at camp. See you Saturday?”

“I’ll be there.” Was it her imagination or did his voice sound husky? She looked up into his pale blue eyes, and warmth spread through her body like a ray of sunshine on a summer day. She turned and walked quickly over to Ginger, grabbing the reins and putting her foot in the stirrup, not looking back until she was safely in the saddle and turned toward home. Only then, did she turn her face toward the man and his dog and wave. “Goodnight, Luke.” She kicked the horse and took off at a canter not waiting to see his response.

CHAPTER EIGHT

The Fourth of July was one of Penny’s favorite holidays. She hoped today went well. Not only did the camp have a big day planned for the holiday, it was also the last day for her first group of campers. When she agreed to do this, she didn’t realize just how attached she’d become to these kids, especially Marissa. It was going to be so hard to say goodbye to the child’s innocent face,

made all the worse by the fact that Penny knew the child would be going home (if you could call it home) to a less than perfect situation. She needed to develop a tougher skin. Once she started teaching she couldn’t become emotionally involved with every student. Still…this was not going to be easy. She loved Independence Day. Along with her blue jeans, she put on a red and white striped shirt and even painted her fingernails red, white and blue. She stuffed the bottles of polish into her front pocket—she bet the girls at camp would love having their own patriotic nails. She planned on riding over early to help everyone get ready for the big day.

“Mornin’ Mom,” she said grabbing a freshly-baked warm muffin from the kitchen table. “I’m headed to camp to get ready for our rodeo. I’ll see you at the fireworks later?” Her mom smiled. “You know your dad and I wouldn’t miss the Peakview celebration. We’ll head down to the park late afternoon to join the Walkers and Peytons for our traditional picnic. Are you bringing the campers to the fireworks?” “That’s the plan.” She took a swig of coffee to wash down the muffin. “We’ll see you there. Have a good day.”

*** By the time Penny rode into the camp, the children had finished breakfast and were already running around in excited chaos. Her foot barely out of the stirrup, Marissa ran up and hugged her legs. “We’re going to make Fourth of July t-shirts. Want to help?” “Of course I do. Lead the way.” She tied Ginger to the corral and helped herd everyone toward the craft cabin. White shirts of all sizes covered the long tables along with small bottles of red and blue puff paint and containers of glitter. “Let’s make matching shirts,”

Marissa exclaimed. “That’s an excellent idea. That way when we wear them after today we can think about each other.” The child’s smile turned to a frown. “I’m going to miss you.” “I’m going to miss you, too, honey. But maybe we can write to each other and keep in touch. Would you like that?” “Yep.” Marissa’s smile returned as she grabbed them some paints. “We should make hearts because we love each other.” They spent the next half hour covering the front of both shirts in small red and blue hearts, drawn carefully by Penny and covered in glitter by Marissa.

Penny helped the other children fashion stars, flags, stripes, and other colorful designs. While they waited for the shirts to dry, Penny became the main attraction, painting each and every girl’s nails in various colorful patterns. Once dry, she slipped her shirt over her head and saw the smile erupt on Marissa’s face. Penny’s heart felt like it might explode. Others could have their designer clothes, nothing would ever make her as happy as wearing this shirt made from the heart. Once all the campers finished, they moved on to the horses, braiding red, white and blue ribbons into manes and tails. Of course, at the insistence of the

campers, Ginger got her fair share of decorations. By mid-afternoon when the rodeo was supposed to begin, Penny was exhausted. She slumped down for a moment of rest on a worn wooden bench beside the corral, appreciating the lemonade that the cook brought out. Bandit, lying in the dirt by her side, suddenly jumped up and let out a welcoming yelp. She looked up to see Luke and Geronimo heading down the hill. He, too, dressed for the holiday, wearing a bright red western shirt with white pearl snaps and a fairly-clean white Stetson. She sat mesmerized by the way the muscles in his arms flexed with the movement of the horse. Her not-so-

pure thoughts were quickly interrupted as she was almost knocked over by the rush of campers that swooshed by her in a race to be the first to greet Brutus. “Look at the cute puppy! Can we pet him?” Brutus didn’t need permission to jump up and start licking faces as he was surrounded by the swarm of giggling youth. Luke dismounted and looked over at her for guidance as Ryan walked up to shake his hand. “Welcome to our camp. Thanks for coming. I see your dog’s a hit already.” “It looks like you have your hands full here. Is it always this crazy?”

“Most of the time.” Penny grinned as she joined them. “But they’re especially wound up today with all of the special things going on for the holiday. I hope you brought your energy.” “I can handle it. It’ll take more than a few kids to get the better of me.” He gave her one of his heart-melting smiles. “We’ll see,” she laughed. Luke had to admit that he was a little intimidated by the mob of screaming children. He did well with kids one-on-one but this…It didn’t matter, there was no way he would let Penny see his fear. She looked cute in

her home made T-shirt covered in sparkly hearts. Of course, she always looked cute in anything she wore. He reluctantly tore his attention away from her chest and introduced himself to the campers. Penny and the other wranglers somehow got each camper on their horses and organized in a line. Ryan handed him a large American flag while holding an equally large Colorado one in his other hand. “Here partner. You and I are leading the grand procession with the flags. If we’re lucky all of the campers will follow in our wake.” Climbing back on Geronimo and positioning the flag as securely as

possible, he walked Geronimo side by side with Ryan with the group of riders followed them into the large arena. He lost sight of Penny, but knew she was back somewhere in the midst of the children. After they all entered, and the gate was closed behind them, they continued to circle a few times at a slow walk. There Penny was, bringing up the rear, but now directly in front of him. Beside her, a very small girl with long flowing black hair and a shirt that matched Penny’s beamed up at her. This was how he pictured their life together, Penny teaching their own daughters or sons the love of horses. He snapped back to reality. Ryan

yelled, “Let’s pick up the pace.” They smoothly broke into a trot for a couple of rounds and then just as easily broke into a slow canter to the delighted whoops of the campers. Penny’s blond ponytail bobbed up and down in front of him. He could hear her laughter. All too soon, Ryan slowed and brought everyone to a standstill. The games began. The children participated in egg and spoon races and several relays. Then everyone moved to one end of the arena, and he watched Penny tear in and race Ginger around the barrels to cheers and shouts of excitement. He knew it had been several years since she competed, but you’d

never tell by the way she raced. How he’d loved going to the small mountain rodeos and watching her compete back in high school. She looked so happy on a horse and had loved winning all of those blue ribbons. How had she walked away? He bet she didn’t even have a horse to ride in Chicago. Penny rode back to where they stood amid shouts of “Can we try, can we try?” “Of course you can, let me teach you.” She walked slowly around the barrels this time, showing them the correct path. Each camper took their turn walking around the pattern, with Ryan and some of the others leading the

smaller children. Then the older ones got the chance to try it at a trot and finally at a canter. Luke couldn’t help noticing the small girl on the paint pony, alone in the back of the crowd. The one wearing the same sparkly heart t-shirt as Penny. The older campers maneuvered their way to the front of the line to race. He walked over to where she sat. “Hi. I’m Luke. What’s your name? “Marissa.” He could barely hear her timid whisper. “You and Penny have matching shirts.” Her lip turned up ever so slightly. “Yep, she’s my bestest friend.”

“She’s my friend, too. Do you think we could be friends?” She looked at him, her eyes filled with the suspicion of a small lost puppy. “Maybe.” “Don’t you want to try barrel racing?” The little girl shrugged and looked down at her pony, petting his neck. “Little Joe is not very fast. I want to go fast like Penny did.” Luke’s heart clenched for this tiny girl with huge, sad, brown eyes. “Well, you’re in luck because Geronimo here is very fast, and I bet if you got up in the saddle in front of me and held on real tight, we could do it together.”

Marissa’s eyes got even bigger. “Really? “Of course. Cowboys don’t lie.” He climbed down and walked around Little Joe. “Ready?” Marissa nodded, and he effortlessly scooped her out of her saddle and hoisted onto his large one. She couldn’t weigh more than a sack of grain. “Now hold on tight to the saddle horn.” He swung up behind her and guided the horse into the line of waiting children. Penny lost track of Luke’s whereabouts as she stood at the front of the seeming endless line of campers waiting to learn the art of barrel racing.

What fun it was to share something she loved so much with these young people. Someday she wanted to do this with her own kids. Kids she always imagined she’d have with Luke. Although she didn’t see him, she felt his presence like a warm breeze against her heart. After cheering Tommy across the finish line, she turned to see who was next in line. Much to her surprise, there was Marissa, not on her small pony but beaming down from the saddle of Geronimo, over 16 hands high in the air. She’d never seen the child look so excited. “Luke and I are going to race together,” she exclaimed. Penny glanced up into Luke’s blue

eyes. He looked almost as excited as Marissa. If it wasn’t already hard enough to not fall back in love with him this summer, this could be the straw that broke the camel’s back. She fought unsuccessfully to stuff the feeling of love away. She raised her eyebrows at him. “Marissa was worried that Little Joe might be too old to race the barrels, so she agreed to help me with Geronimo.” “Be careful.” Luke was somewhat of a daredevil on the back of a horse having learned to ride almost before he could walk. “We will,” the two said in unison. Before she could decide whether or

not this was a good idea, Luke spurred the horse forward into a trot and holding on to the reins with one hand and the child with the other, he made his way around the three barrels with the child giggling in delight. When he passed the last barrel, he clucked to Geronimo who shifted into an easy lope for the straight run home. Penny left one of the other workers in charge and ran over to where the duo stopped. Marissa giggled even louder now. “Penny, did you see how fast I went?” “I sure did. You were a star.” She reached up and grabbed the child down from Luke’s arms. “What do you say to

Luke for taking you on that ride?” Marissa still grinning, looked up at the cowboy. “Thanks, Luke.” “My pleasure ma’am. He tipped the brim of his hat as he started to turn away. “And Luke, I decided you can be my friend.” Luke smiled back at the child. “Luke, you can be my friend, too.” Penny said in a voice that sounded strangely hoarse to her ears. Oh boy, she was in real trouble here. Once all the children had competed in the events, they dismounted and climbed up on the rails of the corral fence to watch Luke work magic with his lariat. Penny joined in their cheers as he

flew the giant loop through the air and lassoed a calf that Ryan had let into the arena. He swung the rope round and round his body and even let a couple of the older campers come down and stand in middle of the rope with him. After much begging he even lassoed a few of the campers, being careful to throw the rope gently and not hurt anyone. “Rope Miss Penny,” a few campers yelled. Good naturedly, she jump into the arena and ran slowly in front of him to let him capture her. Little did they know that he also captured her heart. ***

After the rodeo and an outdoor barbeque complete with a watermelon seed spitting contest—a hit with campers and male counselors alike, Ryan pulled the two large tractorpowered hay wagons up to the hill where they would load the campers for the trek into town for the fireworks display. They’d take a trail along the river so it would be safe for everyone sitting on bales of hay and not belted in. Still, Ryan went through a long list of safety precautions including no standing or moving around while the wagons were in motion and no sitting too close to the edges. There would be several

counselors on each wagon to hopefully keep all of the children under control. Penny walked up to the kitchen and brought the snacks for the ride. Heading toward the wagon, she heard Marissa’s small voice. “Come sit by us, Penny. I saved a seat for you.” She jumped on the end and saw the child sharing a bale of hay with Luke. Great. So much for trying to keep some distance between them. She wove her way through the campers, careful not to step on any fingers or toes. Marissa popped up making room for her. She sat down, and the warmth of Luke’s arm next to hers send tingles all the way up to her heart. Marissa, usually shy around

any male, plopped herself down in Luke’s lap. Penny looked over at him. “You don’t have to come with us, you know.” “What and miss the fireworks with my favorite campers?” He winked at Marissa and she burst into giggles. “I promised this one that we’d find the very best seat for the show, and I intend to keep that promise. You may want to stick with us.” “Cowboys don’t lie,” Marissa said looking up at him with adoration in her young eyes. Oh boy, hers wasn’t the only heart that was in danger of Luke’s charm. The wagon lurched forward, and Luke put his

arm behind her back steadying her. She didn’t mind being this close to him—she didn’t mind at all. For tonight, she decided to relax and enjoy the ride. Everyone in Peakview County had turned out for the big show. Spreading several blankets on the grass for the campers, Penny told them to stay close. Local kids ran up and down the hill, lit up with glow sticks around their necks and arms. Luke and Ryan purchased one for each camper, and soon they glowed in neon colors. Spotting her parents seated nearby with the Walkers and Peytons, Penny excused herself to say hello. Luke

followed behind her, his hand touching the small of her back. She couldn’t help noticing the interested glances of their friends and neighbors and sped up her steps to get out of his reach. She didn’t relish being the subject of local gossip tomorrow. “Penny, glad you made it.” Her mom stood up and gave her a hug. “And Luke, it’s good to see you, too.” Ann looked back and forth between the two of them. “Luke was nice enough to stay and help us get the campers here in one piece,” Penny said desperately trying to downplay the fact that they were together. Cutting the conversation short, Penny headed back to blankets filled

with campers. Luke stayed right on her heels. Of course, Marissa had saved a seat on each side of her for the two of them. The last rays of sunlight disappeared behind the mountians. Howard Crandall stood up amid the cheers of the crowd to announce that the show would begin shortly. Luke looked over at Marissa. “Now the only way to properly watch fireworks is to lay flat on your back so that you can see the whole sky above you.” He removed his hat and set it beside him and laid back, his hands locked behind his head. “Then as each one shoots into the air, you yell ‘ooh and aah’ really loud. Here use my chest as a

pillow.” Marissa lay back against him and stared into the sky. The first explosion went off. “Ooh, aah!” Ooh, aah, is right. Explosions were going off in her brain, but it wasn’t from the fireworks. She gazed down at the two people lying beside her. She noticed the crease in Luke’s hair where his cowboy hat had sat for the day and the muscles in his arms stretched behind his head. But most of all she noticed the small child resting on his chest, yelling in unison with him with each new explosion. This is what she had dreamed about for all those high school years. Her and

Luke—with children, enjoying holidays together. It might be just a fantasy, but it felt right. On impulse she moved over next to the child and laid her head on Luke’s lap, too. Although, the night air had turned chilly, warmth radiated off of him, and her body melted. Could he feel it too? A perfect moment. One that she wouldn’t soon forget, when she returned to Chicago. Luke sucked his breath in deeply as her head settled in his lap, fighting the reaction of his lower body parts to that simple motion. He was treading on unsteady water here and was about to sink. In a few weeks she’d walk out of

his life again. He didn’t want to be left broken-hearted, but it might be too late. Might have been the moment he saw her ride up to his cabin last month. His heart belonged to her—always had. For now, he’d just enjoy their time. He’d be sad later. The ride back to the camp was much more subdued than the ride to the show. Most of the kids, worn out from the long day, fought to keep their eyes open. Marissa settled in Penny’s lap, and Luke could tell by the way she held on tight to the child that she was thinking about having to say goodbye in a few short minutes. He left them alone and joined with a few of the counselors singing

camp songs until they pulled up in front of the bunkhouses. “It was nice meeting you Marissa. Be a good little cowgirl, and maybe we’ll see you back here next summer.” He gave the child a hug and walked over to help Ryan unload the wagon. He would wait to make sure Penny got home safely. He knew she needed some time to say goodbye to Marissa and the other campers. “You want me to drive you and Penny home? You can come back and get your horses tomorrow,” Ryan offered as they finished putting things away. “Thanks, but the ride home will be good. Penny needs some time to process

saying goodbye to her first set of campers. Besides it’s a beautiful night, and the dogs could use the exercise after being closed up in the lodge while we were at the fireworks. The full moon will light our way.” Luke looked at the moon and stars, loving the beauty of the mountains away from city lights. He glanced over. Penny and Marissa held on to one another, tears streaming down both of their faces. Penny wiped hers away as the child clung to her legs, plastering a weak smile on her face. He heard her say, “It’s okay. We’ll always be friends, I promise. We’ll write each other letters, and I’m going to stop down and see you

in Denver before I head back to Chicago.” She gently eased out the child’s grip and encouraged her to head to the bunkhouse. “I won’t forget you.” “I won’t forget you either,” the child squeaked as she let go and joined the others. “You’ll always be my best friend.” Penny turned to him, tears welling up in her eyes once more. “Let’s go.” She called Bandit and climbed on Ginger and followed him out of the gate, not looking back. Luke wanted to console her—try and make things better, but he sensed that she needed some space, so he led the way down the narrow path by the river, shining his

flashlight ahead to light their way in silence. A full moon had risen, and the tree tops glistened in the pale light. He remained quiet until they cleared the trees at the edge of the Anderson land, where he pulled back on Geronimo to let her ride up alongside him. “You okay?” he reached out and entwined her fingers with his. “Yeah, I’m fine. That was a hard one. I guess I’ll need to get used to goodbyes once I start teaching. It would be easier if I knew she was going back to a loving place, but…” He squeezed her fingers and held on until they stopped in front of her barn. Dismounting, she unsaddled Ginger and

let her loose in the corral. “Thanks for riding home with me.” She turned and faced where he stood trying unsuccessfully to calm down his puppy. “You better get Brutus home, before he takes off by himself.” He wanted to kiss her pain away— hold her and never let go. Instead he brushed a light kiss across her forehead and headed Geronimo down the lane. *** Penny walked across the lawn to the house, letting tears flow freely down her face. She’d held her emotions inside for too long today. She sighed in relief to

see that all the lights were out inside the residence. No doubt her parents had already retired from a long day. She wasn’t in the mood to talk to anyone right now. She made her way up the back staircase with Bandit at her heels. The tears continued to flow as she undressed and slipped on the oversized T-shirt that served as her pajamas. It was one of Luke’s old shirts that she had snagged in high school, she liked falling asleep surrounded by his scent. Even though it had been washed at least a hundred times since then, she still swore it smelled like him. Bandit jumped up on the bed beside her and whined attempting to lick away her person’s

tears. “I’m okay.” Penny said softly trying to reassure her companion. She pulled the dog into a tight embrace. What were her tears all about? It had been sad to say goodbye to Marissa, but it was more than that. Luke Walker. What was she going to do about Luke? He acted so sweet all day long, not only to her but to Marissa as well. What did he think was happening between them? Did he want her to give up her career to move home to the Walker Ranch? For that matter, what did she want? She was so confused. Maybe it was a mistake to come back here. She loved Luke. There she’d said it.

She did love him, but she needed more. She’d never be happy just being a rancher’s wife. She needed to make a difference in the world, help others, have her own career. How could she do that in Peakview County? She had no answers—only questions.

CHAPTER NINE

The next weeks passed. A new group of campers came and went, as adorable as the first group, but none that she got as attached to as Marissa. Maybe she was learning to be compassionate, yet separate her job from her personal feelings. A skill she’d no doubt need as a school teacher. She hadn’t heard from Marissa since the child left camp. As more and more days went by, her worry

over her small friend threatened to get the best of her. At her request, Willow contacted the child’s social worker and got permission to give Penny the telephone number of the child’s foster mother. Following a restless weekend, she made the call on Monday morning. “Mrs. Grant? My name is Penny Anderson. I was one of Marissa’s camp counselors at Peak Adventure Camp. I’m going to be in Denver later this week and was wondering if I could stop by and take Marissa to lunch?” “Her caseworker told me you might be calling. I suppose it would be okay, as long as you clear it with me ahead of

time. I can’t plan my schedule around you. It is always good to get one of them out of my hair for a while. Summers are brutal with eight kids in the house.” Get her out of her hair? Penny felt her temperature rising to a boiling point. She let out a deep breath and counted to five before answering. It wouldn’t help Marissa if she lost her temper with this woman. Then she might never get to see the child. She pulled out her sweetest voice. “How about this Wednesday? I could be there about 11:00 and can keep her all afternoon if you like. “I guess that would work.” “Do you think I could talk to her for a minute, let her know I’m coming?”

“She’s outside somewhere. I’ll let her know. Goodbye.” Penny leaned back in her chair. Eight kids? Was Marissa getting any love in this home? She wiped away the stray tear that trickled down her cheek. She needed to show the child that she was important, special, even if only for one afternoon. The morning was filled with the chaos of a whole new group of youngsters. She admired Willow and Ryan more and more each day. How did they do this? And live there, too? At least she got away to the peace and quiet of her parents’ home every evening. She hadn’t seen Luke since the

Fourth. It was probably best to keep her distance until she left Colorado. She didn’t need to start depending on him again—it would just make it that much harder to say goodbye. Still, she missed his warm blue eyes and irresistible smile. And the way he had been with Marissa…he would make an excellent father someday. *** Luke rode down to the main house with Brutus bounding ahead. The puppy had already learned that Grandma was an easy target for lots of dog treats. It had been a long, dusty day of working

with cantankerous horses. July was the hottest month in Peakview County. The brilliant sun shining down through the crystal blue sky could zap all of your energy by the end of the day. Even the horses seemed to feel it. Usually, he just crashed at his cabin, content with the company of Brutus, who seemed to gain a couple of pounds each day. If this kept up, he’d be as big as one of their foals soon. But tonight, he needed some human company. He hadn’t seen Penny in a couple of weeks, and missed her laugh in spite of himself. As he walked up the wide porch step, June called out to him from the old wooden swing. “Hey Luke. Good to see

you. Sit down and I’ll grab you some iced tea.” “You don’t need to get up, I can get my own,” he replied. His stepmom was already on her feet. “No, you relax. You’ve had a long day. I’ll be right back.” “Where’s the old man?” “In the den working on the books. I’d recommend steering clear. You know how much he likes the numbers part of the business.” “Good advice.” Luke plopped down on one of the padded lawn chairs and watched in amusement as Brutus unsuccessfully tried to get one of his parents’ dogs, Shep or Laddie, to chase

him. The older dogs seemed content to lie in the yard and soak in the last rays of sunshine for the day. When June reemerged, however, Brutus gave up and sat politely at her feet salivating at the thought of what she surely must have in her pocket. Luke laughed. “You’re spoiling my dog, already.” “That’s what puppies are for. Right Brutus?” June produced a bone from her pocket and leaned down to receive a slobbery kiss before turning over the treat. “How’s everything going? Is Penny still around? You two looked like you were having a good time together on the Fourth.”

“I haven’t seen her since. I think she’s here for a couple more weeks.” He gazed off toward the Anderson place. “It’s really none of my business, but you still have feelings for her, don’t you?” Luke knew that his stepmom was very perceptive. Probably woman’s intuition. “It doesn’t matter if I do, she’s leaving and that’s that. I can’t make her stay somewhere she doesn’t want to be.” “Are you one hundred percent sure that she doesn’t want to be here with you? Have you asked her?” Luke looked into June’s kind eyes, fighting back unmanly tears that threatened to escape like wild horses

from his eyes. “I can’t ask her to give up her dreams. I love her too much for that.” There he’d said it, he loved her— always had—always would. “Well, take it from someone who’s had a little bit of experience in finding love, if it’s true love, it’s more important than any job or location. I took a huge chance coming back here from Ohio to be with your dad, and look how well that turned out.” June’s face still lit up every time she mentioned his dad. He wanted that feeling. “If you truly love her, then tell her. Let her make the choice. Don’t leave words unspoken that you’ll regret.” “Thanks, Mom. I’ll think about it.”

Luke downed the rest of his tea and stood up and gave her a hug. “Come on, Brutus. Let’s get home. Tomorrow starts early.” Luke trudged back up the hill to his dream home. The home he shared with no one. *** Penny turned off Peaktop Highway and headed down 1-70 toward Denver. Usually she enjoyed singing along with her favorite country radio station as she drove, but today she was too distracted to listen. Even though Marissa’s foster mom had agreed to let her pick up the child and spend the day with her, she had

no idea what she would find when she got there. It had been almost three weeks since her young friend had left camp, and she hadn’t heard from her once. She feared the worst but hoped for the best. Another two weeks and Penny would be on her way back to Chicago—too far away to watch out for her. She wouldn’t be around for Marissa, and she doubted that anyone else would be there either. She wanted to trust the system to take care of the child, but she knew that didn’t always happen. When she got into Denver, she followed her phone’s directions and turned off the Interstate and headed down East Colfax Ave. The houses got

smaller the farther she drove, and her nerves kicked in as she turned into a shabby neighborhood. She maneuvered through several turns down small narrow streets, driving slowly to avoid children playing outside without any adult supervision. Her phone indicated she’d arrived at her destination, and she stopped in front of a small, one-story home that looked as though it had not been painted in this century. Two teenage boys lounged on the front porch smoking cigarettes—at least she hoped they were cigarettes. “Excuse me. Is this the Grant’s?” One of the young men looked up at her with a frown. “Who wants to

know?” “I’m Penny Anderson. I’m here to see Marissa.” “Mom,” he yelled without getting up. “There’s someone here to see one of the little brats.” A worn-looking woman appeared at the screen door, she held a cigarette in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other. “Come on in, I’ll get her.” Penny stepped inside and looked around the small, dark living room. Although the furniture was shabby, the room generally appeared to be clean. Three children sat together on the only couch watching cartoons. “Marissa, your friend is here,” Mrs.

Grant yelled not bothering to leave the room. “I think she’s in the bedroom. Would you like some coffee?” “No, thanks.” Marissa ran down the old, wooden staircase, jumping over the last two steps in her excitement. “Penny!” The child ran across the room and launched herself into her arms. “I missed you.” “I missed you too.” She hugged the small child close. “Let me look at you. You’ve grown since you left camp.” Marissa giggled. Penny turned to Mrs. Grant. “I’d like to take her to lunch, maybe to the park. Is there any time you need her to be back?”

“Keep her all day if you want. One less child that I need to keep track of. Thank god school starts soon.” Penny had to bite her tongue. From what she could tell this woman didn’t really keep track of anyone. She forced a smile and told Marissa to get her shoes. “Thank you for letting me spend some time with her. I’ll have her back later this afternoon.” The child reappeared with some flip-flops and grabbed her hand. “Let’s go.” Penny noticed that she didn’t say goodbye to her foster mother, nor did the lady say anything to her. As they walked off the porch, the

boy who had spoken to her earlier, yelled behind them. “You can keep her, we won’t miss her.” Both boys laughed. Penny held tighter to the child’s hand, helped her into her back seat, and fastened her seatbelt. She couldn’t drive away fast enough. Once she turned back on the main street, she put on her best happy voice. “What would you like to do today?” “Can we go back to camp?” “No, not today, but I’ll help you get signed up for next summer. Little Joe misses you.” “Can you give him a carrot from me?” “You bet. I’ll be sure to give him

several tomorrow. Now speaking of eating, let’s get some lunch.” Penny pulled into a fast food place with some outdoor tables where they could enjoy the summer sun. Once they began their meal she asked, “So how’s everything going at your new home?” Marissa looked down at her sandwich. “It’s okay. It’s kinda crowded with eight kids, and the “real” kids aren’t very nice. She made quote signs as she said the word real. “Real kids?” “Yeah, Mr. and Mrs. Grant’s own kids. They say that the four of us who are foster kids aren’t real kids.” “Those boys who were on the porch

when we left?” “Yep, they’re mean, but me and Susie, we just try and stay out of their way.” “Susie?” “Yeah, she’s nice and just two years older than me. It’s her third foster home. She knows how to stay quiet and not get in trouble. She said she’d teach me the ropes. Sometimes I hear her crying at night though.” “How about Mr. and Mrs. Grant? Do you like them?” “They’re okay. Mr. Grant works most of the time, but Mrs. Grant is home with us. The older kids aren’t mean when she’s in the room.”

Time to change the subject. Clearly it made Marissa sad to talk about her situation, and it wasn’t helping her own mood either. She came to have fun with the child. It wouldn’t help to get herself upset about a something she couldn’t change. She wished she knew a nice family that wanted an adorable eight year old. She watched Marissa quickly finish all of the food on her plate and wondered if the child got enough to eat at the home. “Shall we go see if we can find you some new school clothes?” Marissa’s face lit up. “Really? You’re going to get me some new clothes?”

“Of course. That’s one of the reasons I came. Are there any stores where you like to shop?” “Um, I haven’t gotten anything new in a while except for hand me downs from my cousin. Sometimes, Grandma used to take me to Goodwill or Arc. They have lots of clothes.” Penny’s heart sunk further. Had this child ever had any new clothes? She thought back to the shopping trips her and her mom had made every August to Cherry Creek Mall to get her school clothes for the year. Those had been fun times, and wearing all your new stuff the first few weeks of school was the best. She might not be able to change

Marissa’s life, but at least she could let her have that experience. Penny parked in the familiar parking structure and took hold of her friend’s hand, and they walked through the main entrance to the Mall. She looked down at Marissa, whose eyes were wide, taking in all of the sights and sounds. “Have you been here before?” “Never.” “Well, you’re in for a treat. This is where my mom brought me to get school clothes when I was your age. Let’s see what we can find.” An hour and a half later, the two walked out of the mall, all four of their hands loaded with bags containing their

purchases. Penny spent more than she’d intended, but the huge grin on the child’s face made it all worthwhile. “Would you like to go play at a park for a while before I have to take you back home?” “I love parks. My gramma used to take me sometimes.” “A park it is then.” The rest of the afternoon flew by too quickly. Penny could feel the child’s happy mood vanish as she drove up in front of the Grant residence. “Thanks for spending the day with me, Marissa. I had fun.” Marissa looked over at her, tears welling up in her eyes. “I had so much

fun. Thanks for the clothes. I never had such pretty things to wear.” Penny fought the tears forming in her own eyes. She needed to put on a happy face for this dear child. “Penny? If you ever decide you want a kid, I’m available. I think you’d make an awesome mom.” She pulled the frail child into her arms and held her tight. She didn’t want to give her any false hope, but at the same time didn’t want to make her feel worse by stating that it could never happen. So she just held her in silence. When Marissa’s tears subsided, she walked her to the front door. Fortunately, the older boys were nowhere to be seen.

“Have a great school year. I’m sure you’ll have a really nice teacher. I’ll write you a letter when I get to Chicago and tell you all about my class. Hopefully, we’ll see you back at Adventure Camp next summer.” “Bye, Penny.” She got to her car. Looking back she saw Marissa’s small face pressed up against the screen. She drove away, tears falling freely now. *** Penny’s Camaro rounded the corner past Peak Adventure Camp. She let out a deep breath—almost home. Her tears

dried up on the three hour drive since Denver, but her mood hadn’t elevated. She felt helpless—a feeling she hated. She looked up at the nighttime sky filled with a million stars. You couldn’t see stars like these in any city. Why did people choose to live in cities? The thought no sooner left her brain, when she realized that she had become one of those people. “Of course, they live there for jobs,” she said out loud. The old saying “follow your heart” didn’t pay the bills. Although Peak Highway was all but deserted at this time on a weekday night, out of habit she switched on her blinker to signal her turn into her parent’s lane and then turned it off again

as she drove on by. She loved her parents—they were the best ever—but right now she didn’t want to answer their inevitable questions about Marissa. She wasn’t ready to talk about it. She slowed and downshifted the Camaro maneuvering through the large Walker Ranch archway and heading down the lane, before turning up the small dirt path that was now Luke’s driveway. She needed peace and comfort, and this was where she’d always found it. She slowed her car to a crawl. She didn’t want to wake anyone or run into any unsuspecting wildlife on the narrow path. Rolling down her window, she breathed in the scent of

pine trees and sage. It calmed her. Turning off her engine outside the cabin, she leaned her head back on the seat and gazed at the stars through her T-top. Wherever God was up there, she prayed that He’d give her some answers. She couldn’t tell if Luke was home, the cabin appeared dark, but a dim light shone from an interior room. She got out and closed her door quietly behind her. A board creaked as she stepped on the porch and knocked on the front door. Instantly she heard Brutus’ excited yipping. She smiled. He wasn’t old enough yet for watchdog bark. It sounded more like a welcoming hello to whoever might be coming by to pet him. She

almost turned to leave, when the porch light came on, and Luke opened the door. “Penny? Is everything okay?” Luke, clad in only a loose fitting pair of sweat pants slung low on his hips, smiled down at her. His chest was bare and his washboard abs had filled out—in a good way, since his high school days. His hair lay damp and rumpled on his head. Oh my god, he was gorgeous. It took her breathe away, and she just stood there taking him in. “Penny?” His low voice snapped her back to reality. “Come on in. Sorry, I just got out of the shower. Wasn’t expecting company.” Sorry? No, he definitely shouldn’t

be sorry. She watched him close the door behind them and walked straight into his arms, laying her head against his chest and wrapping her arms around his slightly damp, warm back. He smelled like soap and aftershave and the heat from the shower still radiated off his body. Sensing her mood, Luke wrapped his arms around her gently and stroked his fingers through her long silky hair. He wasn’t sure what she needed, but he longed to give it to her. He felt tears leave her eyes and run down his chest as she sobbed against him. He let her cry holding her tighter and feeling his body

react to her nearness. After her sobbing subsided, he gently touched her chin and moved her face to look up at him, wiping the tears away with his thumbs. What’s wrong, sweetheart? Are your parents alright?” She looked up at him with shining blue eyes. “Yeah, they’re fine.” She sighed. “It’s just that I went to visit Marissa today….” He pulled back and held her at arm’s length. He’d never be able to concentrate on what she was saying with her that close. “Do you want to talk about it? Come and have a seat.” He motioned to the big, comfy leather sofa. She plopped down, and he turned and

grabbed a flannel shirt off the back of a chair and slipped it on before heading to the kitchen to grab them both a beer. When he came back into the room, Brutus was sitting in her lap licking what remained of her tears off of her face. “Brutus!” “It’s okay. He’s just giving me some love.” Penny laughed. He was glad to see a smile back on her face. Handing her a bottle, he sat down beside her, willing himself to keep a small distance between them. “Brutus, get down and let me talk to our guest.” The puppy reluctantly gave up his seat and lay down across the room with a

chew bone. He watched her take a long swig of the cold Coors. “Thanks. I’m sorry to bother you.” “No bother. Tell me about your day?” Penny recounted her visit and the living conditions she observed at the child’s foster home. “I’m just so worried about her. I’m not sure she is getting any love at that home. I took her to Cherry Creek Mall. She’d never been to a mall before. Every child should get that experience.” “Poor kid, but she knows that you love her. That’s something.” “Yeah, but I’m leaving, and to her

Chicago seems like a million miles away. Heck, to me right now it seems like a million miles away. I wish there was someone here to watch out for her.” “I could go visit her every few weeks.” “You’d do that? Really? She does like you.” Penny closed the gap between them and setting her beer down, she reached up and put her arms around his neck, giving him a big hug. Her fingers, cold and damp from the beer, tangled in the hair at the nape of his neck and sent chills down his spine. Did this woman have any idea what she did to him? “Of course. I’d be happy to spend some time with her. We bonded on the

Fourth. Do you think she’d be happy to see me?” “I think she’d be happy to see anyone who doesn’t view her as a burden.” She looked into his eyes, and all thoughts he had of Marissa scurried away like mice across the cabin floor. “Penny,” he murmured in a voice that sounded husky even to his own ears. His lips found hers, kissing her gently at first until she responded with an urgency that overwhelmed him. He deepened the kiss, parting her lips and finding her tongue with his. He heard her small moan and grabbed her legs, pulling then across his lap to caress her soft thighs

below her shorts. She clung to him, removing one of her arms from his neck so her hand could find its way inside his open shirt to his chest. He heard another moan and realized it had come from him. He moved his hand up and found her breast under her tank top and massaged it gently. Penny’s breathing quickened. “I want you, Luke.” She pressed her body closer to his. He deepened his kisses and felt another part of his body harden. Her hand slipped lower and played with the string of his sweats. He had nothing on underneath the flimsy jersey material. He wanted this more than he’d ever wanted

anything in his life. He’d wanted this for four long, lonely years, but against all odds, his brain kicked into high gear. No! Not like this. Penny was not a one night stand—she was his forever love. If they made love now, he couldn’t let her walk away again. Did she really want him, or just want to feel better about her bad day? He wanted her with all his heart, but not like this. Slowly and excruciatingly, he lessened his kiss and pulled back from her, removing her hand from his waistline. “Penny, we can’t do this. Not like this. Not to make you feel better.” “But…” She looked at him, sadness returning to her eyes.

“Trust me, as much as I’d like to make love to you all night long, we’d both regret this in the morning.” He smiled and reached over and tucked a stray hair behind her ear. “You’d better get on home. You can count on me to look out for Marissa.” Penny struggled to get her emotions under control. She pulled her tank top down and ran her fingers through her hair. She needed to leave. She wasn’t about to beg for sex, and that’s exactly what she’d end up doing if she stayed any longer. She stood up and downed the remainder of her beer in one long gulp. “Thanks, for looking out for her and

for making me feel better.” She set the empty bottle down and headed for the door, stopping to scratch the puppy’s head. “Do you know what Marissa said to me when I left? ‘If you ever want a kid, I’m available.’ It broke my heart.” Unable to look at him any longer, she turned to leave. “Goodnight, Luke,” she said over her shoulder as she let herself out the door into the cool mountain air.

CHAPTER TEN

Penny stopped in front of her parent’s house and let out a sigh. Why had she gone to see Luke? Sure, she felt a little bit better about Marissa, knowing that he’d visit the child, but throwing herself in his arms? That had been a mistake. And now the sexual tension built up inside her was almost unbearable. What was it about Luke? She prided herself on being rational

where members of the opposite sex were involved. After all, she was an adult now, not some romantic high school kid with Prince Charming fantasies. But when she saw Luke tonight—practically naked—all rational thoughts had left her brain like horses fleeing a barn. She wanted was to be in his arms, to heck with the consequences. On some level, she knew he was right in sending her home. It would have been a mistake. But oh, what a wonderful mistake. Her body tingled just at the thought. A light shone from the living room. Her parents had waited up. Of course they had. No matter how old she got, she was still their little girl. How different

her childhood had been from the one that Marissa faced. She couldn’t picture Mrs. Grant waiting up to give anyone a hug. She walked through the front door confronted with a familiar scene. Her dad leaning back in his favorite recliner, the one he had as long as she could remember. Its arms were worn—an ugly faded green color. She knew her mom had been trying to upgrade for years, but he wouldn’t hear of it. A book lay open on his chest, but his eyes were closed. Her mom looked up over the top of her glasses and lay her crocheting aside. “There you are. I was starting to get worried. How was Marissa?” Penny walked in and kissed her

mom on the head. “I love you, Mom, but you really don’t have to wait up for me.” “I know, but I wanted to make sure you were safe. There are some crazy drivers down in the city.” Penny hesitated. Should she be honest and tell her about stopping at Luke’s? She decided against it. “Marissa is okay. We had a fun day. I took her to Cherry Creek Mall. Reminded me of all our back-to-school shopping trips. Her foster home isn’t great, but I doubt that many of them are. I don’t think she’s in any immediate danger.” Penny sat down on the foot stool by Mom’s feet. “Well, it was nice of you to go and spend the day with her. I’m so proud of

how compassionate you are. I know you’re going to make an excellent teacher.” “Thanks, Mom.” She laid her head in her mother’s lap. “I owe it all to you and Dad. I hope that I’ve told you how much I appreciate the wonderful life you’ve given me.” “We did our best.” Her mom glanced over at Dad with love in her eyes. “Gary! Wake up. Penny’s home. We need to get to bed.” Mother and daughter both laughed as he startled and attempted to pretend that he’d been awake the whole time. “Goodnight baby girl.” He got up and headed to the bedroom.

“That’s my cue.” Her mother stood up and turned out the light. “See you in the morning.” Penny made her way up to her room. She wasn’t surprised to find Bandit already sound asleep in her bed. Now that she was older, her hearing wasn’t what it once was, and often she failed to greet Penny at the front door. She quickly put on her pajamas and climbed in beside her fluffy companion, pulling her close. She stared up at the stars glowing on her ceiling. “Homecoming?” they spelled out. She remembered her junior year in high school, when her mom had let Luke into her room. He’d spelled out the question in the small florescent

stickers so she’d see it just before she fell asleep. It had been a magical date with a magical boy. She could have taken those stickers down years ago, but they remained. She wanted to sleep, but she couldn’t get her time with Luke out of her head. Oh how she longed to make love to him. She willed her brain to slow down. Marissa popped into her head. Finally she fell into a restless slumber only to jolt awake a short time later. In her dream, Marissa had been standing alone in the snow, no shoes, no coat, and calling out her name, but for some reason she couldn’t get to the child. She shook her head to make the

dream disappear. She sat fully up in bed, took a drink of water, and talked to Bandit trying to vanquish the stark images. She didn’t want to fall back into the same dream. When she finally fell back asleep, she once again woke with a start, sweat running down her face. In the second dream, she had made the decision. She needed to be with Luke. She ran up to his cabin to tell him the good news, but when he opened the door, he held a small toddler in his arms, and there was a very pregnant wife standing beside him. Shaken, she looked over at the bedroom clock—4:30 a.m. This time she got out of bed and grabbing a blanket,

curled up on her window seat. She didn’t want to risk falling asleep again. Who knew what her subconscious mind would come up with next? Nope. She turned on her small lamp and got lost in her current romance novel. Better to deal with someone else’s fantasies. When she finally heard someone stirring below, she made her way into the kitchen and poured herself a cup of coffee. Mom looked over at her. “Did you not sleep well? You aren’t getting sick are you?” Her mom felt her forehead. “No. Too many things on my mind, I guess.” She took a big swig of the hot liquid. “Nothing a little coffee won’t

fix.” She had decided to take this last camp session off, partly because she was leaving in the middle, and partly because she wanted to spend a little more quality time with her parents before returning to Chicago. Her phone rang, and she looked down to see Darrell’s number pop up. Why was he calling so early? Oh yeah, it was two hours later in Chicago. “Hi. What’s up?’ “Just checking in. You’ll be back here so soon. I can’t wait to show you all I’ve done to our classrooms.” She tried to focus on what he was saying. What was wrong with her brain

recently? Finally giving up she said, “Can I call you back in a couple of hours? I just woke up.” “Sorry. I forgot the time difference. Talk to you in a while.” “Is everything okay with Darrell? You didn’t have a fight, did you?” Her mom joined her at the table sounding almost hopeful. Penny gave her a weak smile. “It’s nothing like that. I just need to wake up a little bit.” “Relax, you’re going to make a wonderful teacher.” Why didn’t she tell Mom about her mixed feeling regarding Darrell and Luke? She had always been able to

discuss everything with her. She valued her mom’s opinion more that anyone’s, but in this case, Mom was definitely not neutral. She didn’t need her trying to sway her in one direction. Maybe she’d go into town and talk to Melanie. Melanie didn’t know her well enough to be prejudiced either way. *** Luke and Jeff sat down at Violet’s counter for their usual morning cup of coffee. “Do I smell fresh baked biscuits?” Luke asked. “I took them out of the oven right before you walked in. Would you like a

couple?” “Yes, ma’am.” “Jeff?” “No thanks. We ate breakfast before we left home. I swear this one is a bottomless pit.” Violet smiled. “He’s still a growing boy. She set a steaming plate down in front of Luke and topped off his coffee. “What’s new out at your place?” “Nothing.” Luke said probably too quickly. His father glanced over at him. Like hadn’t slept much last night after Penny left. Besides the physical issue her visit had caused, his mind wouldn’t shut off. “Is Penny still home?”

And there it was. Would people in this town ever stop thinking of them as a couple? “She leaves in a few more days.” “Tell her to stop by before she goes. We’ll miss her around here.” “If I see her, I’ll let her know.” Luke didn’t want to be rude to Violet, but he didn’t know if he’d see Penny again before she left. After last night, there wasn’t much else for them to say to each other. Better that she went on her way. He didn’t need a tearful goodbye. She didn’t love him the way he loved her. He had to accept that. He’d find someone else. After all, look at Violet. If she could find a second chance at love at her

age, there might still be hope for him. He vowed to start fresh, think positive, and go on with his life. That’s what his mom would want for him. His dad went on after her death. Penny wasn’t dying. He could survive her leaving. *** Penny spent the morning working in the garden with her mom. Most of the vegetables were ripe, and neighbors stopped by regularly to pick fresh produce. She’d help her parents set up a small roadside stand on the highway this weekend. She loved the end of summer and beginning of fall in Peakview

County. Sadness hit her that she was heading back before the Aspens turned this year. “Hey neighbors.” Penny looked up to see June Walker round the corner of the house, a large basket over her arm. Ann wiped her hands on her jeans. “June. Good to see you. Need some vegetables?” “You bet. I’m trying to introduce some healthy eating over at our place. I’m afraid Jeff and Luke are more of the meat and potato kind of guys, but I’m working on it.” She smiled. “Next year I may even try my own little garden.” “Good for you. Pick what you

want.” June filled her basket to the brim. “Penny and I were about to take a break. Will you join us for a glass of iced tea?” “I’d love that.” The three women made their way onto the large wraparound porch, and Mom excused herself to get the beverages. “So Penny when do you head east?” “Middle of next week.” “I bet you’re excited to begin your teaching career.” Penny tried to sound more enthusiastic than she currently felt. “I love helping disadvantaged kids. Watching how they grow and thrive

given a little encouragement. It’ll be a good year.” “Luke told me about little Marissa. We’re hoping maybe he can bring her up to our ranch for a weekend sometime this fall. I’d love to meet her and spoil her a little bit, like my own granddaughters.” Luke wanted to bring Marissa up to the mountains? That shouldn’t surprise her—he’d always been a caring person. She was happy for the child. A small twinge of jealousy stabbed at her heart. Life here would go on without her. “I’m sure she’d love that.” Mom joined them, and Penny continued to talk about her teaching

plans for this fall. “You must be so proud of your daughter. It’s hard having them long distance though, isn’t it? Now that Mary is back in Ohio and Alexis is in Louisiana, I miss quality motherdaughter time. I’m already counting the weeks until we are all together for Thanksgiving.” June sighed. “I guess we have to let them grow their wings, but it’s been wonderful having Penny here all summer. I’m going to miss her terribly.” “Luke is going to miss her terribly, too.” June looked over at her. “Enough, I’m right here,” Penny said to change the direction of the

conversation. How much had Luke shared with his stepmom? “You two are going to make me sad. I’ll be home to visit again before you know it.” As June drove away, Dad came up from the barns. “I’m heading into town to pick up some things from the hardware store. “Can I treat my two favorite ladies to lunch at Violet’s?” Penny climbed into the cab of the pickup next to her parents. Her mom laid her hand on his father’s leg as he drove. The affection they shared after almost thirty years of marriage astonished her. That’s what she wanted—a love to last a lifetime. The lunchtime rush had subsided

when they entered the café. They chose one of the booths, and barely sat down when Violet came bustling out of the kitchen bringing them some water. “If it isn’t one of my favorite families. Want some lunch? The special is a chicken salad.” “Sounds perfect.” Mother and daughter said in unison. Her father frowned. “I’ll have a burger well-done and fries. That special sounds way too healthy to me. And a cup of coffee, please.” Violet returned with their drinks. “So, Penny. When are you leaving us?” “Next week. The summer’s gone by fast.”

“We’re going to miss you around here. Some of us more than others.” Violet winked as she walked away. There it was yet again. Although unsaid, she was positive that Violet was referring to Luke. This town would never be able to separate the two of them. Her father smiled and waved at Jim Peyton and Hank seated at the counter. She wondered if Melanie had made any progress in the Hank department. She’d been so busy at camp, she hadn’t talked to her new friend in a few weeks. When they finished the delicious meal, and her parents headed to the hardware store, she excused herself to walk across the

street and find out. Melanie was just finishing up a purchase with a couple of tourists. “Penny. Good to see you. Can I help you find something?” “Just came to visit, if you have a few minutes. My parents are shopping at Sam’s. That always takes a while. But now that you mention it, a romance novel might be good to read on the plane back to Chicago next week.” “I’ve got just the one for you. Did you know that Jill Shalvis has started a new series in the Colorado Mountains?” “Sounds great. Now tell me what’s new. I saw Hank over at Violet’s. Have you made any progress there?”

Melanie joined her at the small reading table. “No. Peaktop has been full to capacity all summer, so he hasn’t been in town much. Even Sophie hasn’t been able to ride these past couple of weeks, not enough horses to go around. Maybe I only imagined that he showed an interest in me. It’s probably for the best. My relationships with men have never ended well.” “Don’t give up. School’s starting and tourist season is winding down. He’ll need someone to keep him warm this winter.” Penny winked at her friend. “Not counting on it. But thanks for putting that image in my brain. It only makes me want what I can’t have.”

Melanie sighed. “I know how that feels. Penny fought the tears welling up in her eyes. “I’m leaving—Luke’s staying. Enough said.” A lone tear escaped down her cheek. “Hey, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you sad. What are the tears all about?” “I don’t know. I’ve worked really hard to get to where I am. I’ve got an awesome job waiting for me in Chicago. Darrell’s there waiting for me, too. I should be so excited for my future. But when I’m around Luke, I start to question everything. Is the job what I really want? Or do I want to stay in Peakview and

make babies with him?” “You can’t have both? It is the twenty-first century, you know. We woman folk don’t have to choose between a man and a career.” Penny smiled in spite of herself. “I know. It’s just that there aren’t any inner city schools within 200 miles of Peakview. I don’t see myself teaching at Peak Elementary. All of those kids have supportive families who love them. I want to do more.” “What about Darrell?” “I don’t know. I thought we had something. But the more I’m around Luke, the more I want passion, excitement, wild crazy sex. I just don’t

have that with Darrell. He’s a nice guy, but is nice enough?” “Don’t ask me. I’ve never dated a nice guy. I’d like to try it sometime. Maybe you’ll find what you’re looking for in Chicago. I’m sure there are a few sexy men in a city that size, if Darrell’s not the one.” Melanie handed her friend a tissue. “I know. Luke just scrambles my brain. He’s nice, and supportive, and so very hot. He’s the whole package. Am I crazy to walk away from him again?” Melanie looked over at her. “All joking aside, follow your heart. I followed mine here to find my dad and I’ll never regret it. Whatever you decide,

I’m behind you one hundred percent.” “Thanks, I’ll be fine once I’m back in Illinois.” Penny sighed again. “And then there’s Marissa.” “Marrisa?” “Yeah, a girl I met at the camp. You may have met her on the Fourth.” “The one with the gorgeous long brown hair and the t-shirt that matched yours?” “That’s the one.” “What about her?” “I just can’t get her out of my mind. I went to visit her in Denver. She’s in a foster home. Not much love there. I wish there was something I could do to help her.”

“That’s rough. Sophie was friends with a foster girl one year in Columbus. I always felt so bad for her when she was at our home. We didn’t have much, but at least we had love, and each other. Just when she and Soph were becoming close, she was moved to a different home in another part of town, and we never saw her again. Everyone needs to know someone cares. Can you email her? Skype?” “No, she doesn’t have access to a computer. I’ll write her letters. I hope it brightens her day.” “I know you’ll do what you can. Think of all those children in Chicago who need your help, too. Go and change

the world. When will I get to see you again?” “Hopefully at Christmas. I have a two-week break and plan to head home for the holiday. And by then, I want to hear all about your romance with Hank.” Melanie laughed. “I doubt that, but I’ll love to sit down with some nice hot chocolate and catch up with you.” “You deserve some romance in your life, too. I wish you luck my friend.” The bell on the door dinged as a group of women walked into the tiny shop. Penny stood to leave. “I’ll let you get back to work. See you in December.” Melanie walked over and gave her a big hug. “Good luck to you. Here’s

hoping that you find your true path.” When Penny walked out to the street, her parents were already loading supplies into the back of the pickup. She climbed in the front seat between them and enjoyed the comfort of being surrounded by those she loved.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

On Friday, Penny helped her mom sort through some of her old belongings from high school. No need to keep cluttering her parent’s home with things she’d never use again. Soon she’d have a permanent home in Chicago. She grabbed her cell phone as it blared out her familiar Rocky Mountain High ringtone. “Hello.” “Penny, it’s Willow. Ryan and I

were wondering if you’d come over and have dinner with us tonight?” “I’d love that. I’ve been meaning to come by and thank you for letting me be a part of the camp this summer. What time?” “The campers are having a cookout in the meadow, so maybe after that. Say around seven? Is that too late? Ryan and I often like to have a late dinner by ourselves after the troops are settled in for the night.” “Sounds perfect. See you then.” Penny turned to her mom. “That was Willow. They invited me over for dinner tonight. I’ve been meaning to get back over there and say goodbye.”

“They sure are a nice young couple. Why don’t you take some of these old clothes with you? Maybe they’ll have some campers who could use them.” Her mom continued to sort through her closet. “You have so many books in here. Do you think the campers might enjoy some of them, too?” “Those are both great ideas. So many campers arrived in thread bare clothes, and I doubt their families have much money for books. Some of my favorites I’m taking with me for my classroom, but the rest I’ll take over to camp. Thanks, Mom. You’re the best.” The scent of pines, mixed with

smoke from the campfire, filled Penny’s nostrils as she parked near the camp’s lodge nestled in the trees. It smelled like home. She pulled a flannel shirt over her t-shirt as she got out of the car and headed up the hill to the private residence. Since she ended up with several boxes of clothes she’d outgrown over the years, she drove her Camaro instead of riding Ginger. Although still August, the crisp, evening air held a slight chill. She shivered and picked up her pace. Fall came early at over 9000 feet above sea level. Willow opened the door to her knock. It had only been a week since Penny

has seen her, but it looked like her belly expanded another couple of inches. “You look great.” “Great big you mean,” Willow said with a laugh. “I’m about ready for this kid to make an appearance. Another six weeks, and I may not fit through the door.” Ryan walked in from the kitchen. “Welcome to our home.” “Who’s minding the campers? They’re not running wild in the woods, are they?” “Nope, the counselors have it under control tonight. It’s one of the perks of being the boss. Sometimes you can delegate work to others. Seriously,

we’ve had a great staff this summer. I hate to see them leave next week.” Willow ushered Penny into the dining room and returned with a steaming tuna casserole. The aroma made Penny’s mouth water. Ryan poured a glass of water for his wife and white wine for himself and their guest. “One more reason I’m ready for junior to get here. I miss a good glass of wine at the end of a long day.” “Thank you so much for having me to dinner. I wanted the chance to say thanks for letting me volunteer this summer. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I brought some boxes of my old clothes and books, if you think the campers

could use them.” “That’s a great idea. We have been talking about setting up a small, free store of sorts. Fill it with gently used, donated items. Let the campers each pick out a few things.” “And we enjoyed having you. The kids adored you. You have a true gift.” Willow raised her glass in a toast. “We wanted to say thanks, and also to share our good news with you.” Willow glanced over at her husband. Ryan winked at her and turned to Penny. “One of our grant applications was accepted. We’re going to be able to keep Peak Adventure open year round.” “That’s fabulous,” Penny got up and

gave each of them a hug. “Of course, we won’t be open during the week in the school year, but we can host campers almost every weekend. Hiking and horseback riding in the fall; tubing, snowshoeing, and maybe even skiing in the winter; enjoying the first flowers and the thaw in the Spring. We’ll have an extended weekend camp over Thanksgiving Break. Show these kids what a real Thanksgiving feast is all about. And there’s the Peakview Harvest Fest—maybe even a Halloween themed weekend. The possibilities seem endless.” Out of breath, Ryan paused. “I’m so excited for you, and for the kids. How great to get kids out of the

city and into nature year round.” “Exactly. The only issue, at least for this year, is that Willow’s due in a few weeks. She’ll obviously need to take some time off after the baby is born, and I’d like to spend as much quality time with the two of them as possible. Fortunately for us, the grant includes a salary for a full time assistant camp director.” Penny frowned. “Where are you going to find someone who is right for the job? Do you have any ideas?” Willow joined in the conversation. “We’re looking at her.” “What? Me?” Penny’s mouth fell open. “But, I…”

“Before you turn us down, please think about it. You’ve fit right in since day one, and the kids all love you. You know the trails and countryside of Peakview County as well as we do. We know you have a great job in Chicago waiting for you, but we got the impression that you might be having second thoughts about leaving Peakview. It’s hard to get this place out of your blood.” “I don’t know what to say. I wasn’t expecting this. Tell me more about the job.” “Obviously, you’d only actually be with kids on weekends. Weekdays would be full-time too, though. Planning

for each weekend’s activities, doing some long term planning for next summer and beyond, helping with maintenance and improvements, and maybe even some of the grant writing. It would be your job to contact the various agencies and get the campers and their scholarships lined up. And, of course, driving campers to and from Denver. It may be challenging at first, but it may prove to be a very rewarding job.” Ryan mentioned the compensation, and she was surprised that it was slightly higher than her starting teacher salary in Chicago. “There’s a small apartment on the second floor of the main lodge. You could fix it up however

you like and stay here, or you could live at your parents and drive back and forth. Totally up to you.” Her thoughts spun like a top out of control. “It sounds wonderful, although I’d hate to let my school down at the last minute. Can I have a few days to think about it? I don’t want to hold you up. You probably need to hire someone soon.” “Sure. Take some time. We know we sprung this on you, and we want it to be the right fit. We have another week of summer camp, and then we’ll shut down for at least a couple of weeks to clean up and regroup for the fall season. We really haven’t considered anyone other

than you. You’d be so perfect for this job, but we also want the job to be perfect for you. Just get back to us as soon as you can.” “I will. I’m flattered.” Ryan and Willow’s excitement proved contagious. She spent the rest of the meal listening to all of their plans for the new grant money. Each month from September through May provided a unique opportunity for camp activities. There would be holiday-themed weekends, and others that would change with the seasons. By the time they got to dessert, Penny came up with several ideas of her own. She felt as though she was already onboard. She thanked her

friends for the offer and the wonderful meal and promised to get them an answer by the beginning of the week. Back in her Camaro, she headed toward the little cabin in the pines. This was not a decision she could make on her own. As enticing as the job offer was, she’d only stay in Peakview if it meant a future with Luke. She couldn’t imagine living in the small town any other way. Luke wanted her to stay, didn’t he? She parked her car in front of the now familiar cabin, as doubts started to seep in like an overflowing mountain stream. The last time she came here he had turned down her advances. Was it because she was leaving? Maybe he had

gotten over her. She let out a deep breath. She was about to find out. Walking onto the porch, she felt like she was coming home. She knocked on the door and waited. Although she heard Brutus’ welcoming bark, no other sound came from inside. She knocked again, harder this time. A sinking feeling hit the pit of her stomach. Where was Luke? She walked behind the swing and peered in the window. Brutus caught sight of her and barked louder, his whole body wagging with his tail in excitement. Nope, definitely no one home. Luke couldn’t have gone far, could he? She sat down on the wooden swing. Such a beautiful

late summer night. She pulled her flannel tighter around her. She’d wait for him to return. Maybe he’d gone down to the main ranch house for something. At the creak of the swing, Brutus began to whine and scratch at the door. The longer she sat there, the louder he got. Dang it. This wasn’t fair. The poor dog didn’t understand why she wasn’t coming in to see him. She could look around to see if Luke had hidden a key somewhere. No, that was being a little too forward. She hadn’t earned the right to trespass into his home. Discouraged, she got up and moved back to her car. Maybe the dog would think she left and quiet down. She sat in the car and stared

up at the stars through her T-top. It was peaceful here. Why had she ever wanted to leave? The heavens seemed so close. Lost in thought, a half hour passed and still no sign of Luke. She shivered, the night air cooled down even more, and a breeze picked up. She glanced at her phone. 10:30. Could he be with someone else? Maybe it was too late. Maybe she’d lost the love of her life. She put her key in the ignition and started the car, wiping back the tears that started to run down her checks. Luke where are you? She slowly backed down the path through the dark pine trees. The wind whistling through the branches now seemed ominous. Her heart, so full of

excitement a couple hours ago, ached in dread. *** Luke wandered over to the bar and ordered another beer. He wasn’t sure why he had let Chip, an old friend from high school, talk him into coming to the Apple Creek Saloon. It seemed better than spending another Friday evening at home alone with his dog. While Chip spent most of the night on the dance floor with several different girls, Luke sat at their table nursing his beer. A couple cute girls stopped by and asked him to dance, but he declined. He thought that

being out in public might make him feel better about Penny leaving, but the sight of all the happy, laughing couples just made him feel worse. Would he find someone to love him again? He could see himself growing old on that mountain —becoming a sad, lonely hermit. “Hey buddy, why aren’t you out on the dance floor? You can drink beer at home.” Chip placed his hand on Luke’s shoulder. “This is Samantha.” He smiled at a pretty blonde standing by his side. “Darling, do you have any friends who might like to dance with my friend here?” The blonde motioned to a petite girl with long, thick brunette hair. “Lucy, this

is…. I’m sorry, what was your name?” Luke set his beer down on the bar. “Luke Walker. Nice to meet you.” He stuck out his hand to shake with both of the young women. “Lucy’d love it, if you’d ask her to dance.” Despite his misgivings about interacting with members of the opposite sex tonight, he was too polite to decline a direct request. Lucy smiled up at him. The band was playing a two-step, and he was fairly adept at that. At least he and Penny were at one time. Turning to the girl beside him, he mustered his best smile. What was her name? “Would you like to dance?”

“I thought you’d never ask.” She took his arm and led him onto the floor. She proved to be a good dancer, and he admitted that moving around the dance floor cheered him up. They danced to two of the upbeat songs, and then paused as a slow one began. Nope, he wasn’t ready to hold another woman close in his arms. “Let’s take a break. Can I buy you a drink?” Although disappointment crossed her pretty face, she agreed, and they stopped by the bar to pick up his beer and one for her before returning to the table to join Chip and Samantha. The girls were talkative, no doubt in part due

to the beer consumed. Both were born and raised in Aspen Ridge and worked together at the local hair salon. They seemed extremely content with life in the small community. Although neither appeared to have much ambition, they were entertaining, and he found himself laughing in spite of himself. The rest of the evening passed quickly. When the bartender announced last call, it was clear that Chip wasn’t ready to say goodnight to the girl at his side. Why hadn’t Luke brought his own truck? “Can we give you lovely ladies a lift home?” Chip stood and threw some money on the table for a tip. “That would be wonderful.”

Samantha smiled at him, grabbing his arm. “We live just a couple of miles down the road.” Once in the parking lot, Chip opened the passenger door to his old pickup. How were they all going to fit in the truck? Samantha climbed in first and slid over as close to the driver’s seat as she could get. Now what? “You get in, and I’ll sit on your lap.” Lucy smiled. On top of the fact that this arrangement violated of all the seatbelt laws, Luke wasn’t ready to have a pretty girl in his lap—at least not one who wasn’t Penny. He couldn’t think of a polite way out, so he climbed in and

offered his lap. She leaned back against his chest, her soft hair brushing against his face. It smelled like strawberries. As the truck started down the road and she jostled against him, he had to admit this wasn’t all bad. Maybe there was hope for him yet. Chip stopped in front of a small bungalow and jumped out to help Samantha down from the driver’s side, walking her toward the door. It was clear that he intended on enjoying a nice, long goodnight kiss before leaving. Luke wasn’t ready to kiss anyone, so he sat awkwardly where he was praying Lucy would say goodnight and get out of the truck by herself. Instead she rifled

through her purse, and handed him a neon pink business card. “I had fun tonight. Here’s my number in case you’d like to call me sometime.” She leaned her head down intending to place a kiss on his lips, but he turned his head slightly so it landed on his cheek. “Goodnight.” He patted her arm and shifted to help her out of his lap. “It was nice to meet you.” Thank goodness, she got the hint and climbed out of the truck not looking back. He watched as she awkwardly squeezed past the other couple—engaged in a passionate embrace—and entered the house. Luke fastened his seat belt as Chip

pulled out of the driveway. His friend looked over at him with a frown. “Not sexy enough for you?” Luke ran his fingers through his hair. “Just not ready.” “You need to get over Penny. It’s been four years, man. Time to get on with your life.” “You’re right. I got Lucy’s number. Maybe I’ll give her a call.” Back in his cabin, Luke emptied out his pockets onto the nightstand. He picked up the bright pink card and turned it over in his hand. A beautician. Next time he needed a haircut, he’d give her a call. But a possible lifetime partner? He’d keep looking.

CHAPTER TWELVE

Penny awoke to the sounds of her parents downstairs after a fitful night. Her mind would not shut off—even for a second. Looking out her window, stars twinkled in the still dark sky. It was the day of their annual vegetable stand down by the main road, and her father was determined that they’d be ready to set up at first light. She climbed out of bed, grabbed her robe, and called to a sleepy

Bandit to follow her down the staircase. The dog gave a weak wag of his tail and obeyed. “Mornin’, darling. How was your dinner with Ryan and Willow? I didn’t hear you come in last night.” “Dinner was good. They’re excited about the baby.” She grabbed some coffee and walked out onto the back porch with Bandit. Guilt crept up inside her. She hadn’t said anything, so why did she feel like she was lying to her parents? Because she always shared everything important in her life with them. She just couldn’t tell them about the job offer. Not yet. She didn’t want to let them down, and if they thought there

was a possibility that she might stay, they’d get excited. No. She needed to make a decision first. And to do that, she had to talk with Luke. She committed to spending the day at the stand, but once done she’d try again. She walked into the yard, breathing deeply to take in the pine fragrance in the morning dew. The dark shadows of mountain peaks loomed to the west, as the first rays of sunshine broke the eastern horizon. It was going to be another gorgeous, late summer day. Not a cloud in the sky. How she loved this place—it was home. Maybe she had needed to leave to appreciate what she already had.

The screen door behind her banged signaling her father had joined her. “Let’s get these baskets of produce loaded into the back of the truck and down to the road.” Her mother followed closed behind, her face lit up like a firefly. She loved getting to show off what she had grown for the year. This day was one of her favorites, rivaling even Christmas. “Be careful Gary. Don’t let any of the bushels fall on each other. We can’t sell damaged produce.” “Yes dear. I’ve got it under control.” He glanced over at Penny. “You’d think I hadn’t done this every year for 16 years.”

Penny jumped on the back of the flatbed truck with the baskets and promised to watch over them while they drove the short distance to the table they’d set up yesterday. The truck bumped along the rutted path. Her cell phone began to ring, and she pulled it out of her pocket. Darrell. She hit the decline button. No, she couldn’t talk to him either, not until she made her decision. By seven, the stand was up and running. Several early risers had already made purchases. This day was as much of a social event as it was a moneymaking endeavor. Neighbors stopped by to chat and catch up on the latest local

gossip. Apparently, old Mrs. Whittaker, who had taught English at Mountain High School since time began, was becoming senile, and everyone questioned the motives of her niece who arrived recently to be her caretaker. Penny smiled to herself, she thought Old Lady Whittaker (as the students referred to her) was senile long before she endured her for a year of Freshman English. Of course, everyone asked about her plans, when she was leaving, and her upcoming school year. She tried to answer, staying as non-committal as possible, but the women of Peakview County were relentless. Around noon, a couple of her former classmates from

high school stopped by and wanted to hear all about life in Chicago. “I always thought you’d end up with Luke Walker.” One of them said. “Have you seen him this summer? If it’s possible, he looks even better now than he did in high school.” “Don’t be silly,” the other said. “They’re ancient history. She moved on years ago. Looks like he has, too. Did you see that cute brunette he left the saloon with last night?” “Yeah, she’s from Aspen Ridge.” She turned back to Penny. “Do you have a gorgeous city guy waiting for you in Chicago?” Penny barely heard the question.

Her head spun. So that’s where he was last night. What brunette? She prayed it wasn’t too late and changed the subject abruptly. Over the course of the morning, she received three more calls from Darrell, and eventually turned off her phone and stuck it back in the cab of her father’s truck. Finally, she left the stand all together and busied herself arranging the produce on the back of the truck. As much as she loved all of their friends and neighbors, she was about talked out. The hot Colorado sun combined with her lack of sleep the night before made her want to curl up in a ball and take a nice long nap. She seriously contemplated

doing just that when she looked up at the crunch of tires and watched the familiar red pickup pull up alongside. “Hiding out?” Luke jumped out of the cab, his smooth western drawl making her heart beat faster. “Taking a break.” “Get enough gossip for one day?” His bright blue eyes twinkled in amusement. “For the year.” She laughed. “Need some veggies?” “Yeah, I need to add something healthy to my normal diet of microwavable meals. I love my cabin, but the food sure isn’t as good as it was down at my parents.” Luke reached up to

grab her hand as she brushed off her jeans and jumped down from the truck. His hand lingered a second more than necessary, his fingers caressing the palm of her hand. Shivers danced up and down her spine. “Well then, you’ve come to the right place.” She led the way to the table and helped him fill a sack with a variety of produce. “It’s good to see you.” Her mom walked up to give Luke a hug. “Don’t be a stranger, once Penny leaves, we’ll need some young people to stop by and keep us company.” “I’ll do that. Especially if it happens to be dinnertime.” They all

laughed. Who was he kidding? He really hadn’t come here for vegetables, he’d come by to see Penny. Sure she was leaving next week, but between now and then he’d take any excuse to spend time with her. She looked cute today dressed in overalls and a flannel shirt with her hair pulled back in a ponytail. She was sexy without any makeup or frills. This was the way he remembered her from junior high school. Natural. When had that all changed? Ann took his money and handed him a full bag. He didn’t have a reason to linger, so he walked back to his truck

where he was greeted by a whining, wiggling Brutus. You’d think he’d been gone for days, not the few minutes he was out of the truck. Placing the bag in the back, he hugged his companion before shoving the ever-growing puppy over out of his seat, and frowned seeing the side window which was completely covered in nose prints. He’d better sign up for some obedience classes before the Brute got much bigger. He loved the dog, but some manners would be nice. “Sit!” he said in the sternest voice he could muster, pushing the dog’s rear down on the passenger seat. He turned on the engine and reached behind him to roll down the dirty window.

“Hi there, Brutus.” He startled at the sound of her voice, and turned to find her leaning on his window edge, her face on her elbows looking over at him with big round eyes. His face broke into a grin. “Hi there, yourself. Did I forget something?” “Nope. I was just wondering if we could talk?” “Sure, go ahead. I’m not in a rush. What’s on your mind?” He reached over to turn off the engine. “Not now. Could I stop by the cabin this evening after we finish up here? That is, if you’re going to be home.” “Not plannin’ on going anywhere.

Stop by whenever. Bring Bandit, someone needs to wear this guy out.” He ruffled the fur on the dog’s neck. “Okay. See you then.” She turned and walked away from the truck, her rear looked good in those overalls. And that blonde ponytail flipping in the breeze. How he longed to pull out the rubberband and run his hands through her long locks. Time to drive away. He slowly pulled back onto the highway willing his heartrate to slow down. What did she want to talk to him about? He had no idea. It seemed like everything had been said the other night. Still…. whatever it was, he was happy to get to spend some time her. He wasn’t

so sure about his willpower though. He didn’t know how many times he could be alone with her, before he gave in to his urges and made mad passionate love to her—to heck with the consequences. *** The sale proved to be a huge success. Penny smiled and helped her parents unload the table and chairs and what little produce remained. “If that’s the last of it, I’m going to head upstairs and wash off all the dust before dinner.” “You do that, honey. I can finish up here.” Her dad gave her a big hug. “Thanks for all of your help today. We

sure are going to miss you around here.” When she stepped back from his embrace, she thought she saw a tear in the corner of Dad’s eye. By tomorrow hopefully she could give her parents news that would bring them tears of joy. She took her time in the shower washing away her fears with the day’s soil. She wanted to look her best tonight. Was she being silly? It was just Luke. But that was the problem. He wasn’t just Luke, he was the man she wanted a future with—the man she wanted to have children with. She searched through her dresser drawer until she found a lavender, lacy bra and matching panties —just in case…. She sprayed on some

perfume and then wiggled into a clean pair of form-fitting jeans and nice lavender, western shirt with pearl snaps down the front. She turned on her rarelyused curling iron and put some long curls in her hair, and although she seldom wore makeup, she added a little mascara to her eyes. Lastly, she dug her lavender, suede boots, out of the closet and slipped them on. She hadn’t worn them since her barrel racing days. “Not bad.” She said to Bandit as she looked in the full length mirror. She wagged her tail in response. “My, don’t you look nice.” Her mother said when she sat down at the kitchen table for dinner. “Are you going

out?” “I’m riding over to Luke’s. It’s a nice night, and Bandit needs the exercise.” She glanced over to catch her dad winking at her mom. “What?” “Nothing dear. You’re pretty dressed up for a horseback ride.” Her mom smiled. “Well, I don’t want to look like a farmer all the time.” She changed the subject to the day’s events. Her mom had no shortage of stories she’d heard from their neighbors, passing the rest of the meal in laughter and casual conversation. Penny stood up from the table. “Thanks for a wonderful meal as

always, Mom. I’ll be back in a while.” “No rush. You know how early your father got me up this morning. We’ll be heading to bed soon. Enjoy your time with your nice young man.” “Okay, Mom.” Penny laughed. She called Bandit and shut the door behind her. Once she headed out of the corral, she took her time walking Ginger across the open meadow which connected the Walker spread to theirs. The clouds over the mountains to the west turned bright shades of pink and orange as the sun began its decent. Above the clip-clop of Ginger’s hooves, she heard the chirping of grasshoppers, scurrying to get out of

their way. The long grasses, turning brown in the late summer heat, rustled against her boots. She could smell the sage brush mixed with pine. She missed those scents in Chicago where the smell of car exhaust overwhelmed her senses. A feeling of all-consuming peace came over her—this was where she belonged. No doubt was left in her mind. Luke was pacing, and he knew it. The more he circled his living room like a stallion in a stall next to a bunch of mares, the more excited Brutus became. “Alright, boy. Let’s go out and find a stick to throw.” He opened the door, and his puppy almost knocked him over in

his excitement to get into the great outdoors. Yep, some training was definitely in order. He tried to relax. He had no idea exactly when Penny’d arrive. At this rate he’d be a nervous wreck before she got here. He had taken a long shower to wash off all of the days’ dirt and grime and put on a fresh pair of clean jeans and a nice western shirt. He even dabbed on some cologne. If this was the last time he saw her before she left, he wanted to leave a good memory in her mind. Was he too dressed up? In the end, he decided to stay barefoot, just to add a casual feel to his attire. He walked off the porch and found a

large stick and tossed it in the direction of his dog. Brutus instantly grabbed it and ran full speed back to him. No fancy store bought toys needed for Brutus. Sticks were his favorite thing in the world. Luke felt his muscles relax as he threw the stick over and over. Brutus’s tongue hung out of his mouth, but he didn’t slow down. Not until he gave out an excited yelp and dropped the stick to run across the field to greet Bandit. The setting sun cast a bright shadow of light around Penny emerging from the trees. Almost like the glow of an angel. She was his angel. Always had been, since that day in the barn when they first became friends. He couldn’t let her go,

not this time. Walking over to Ginger, he reached up and caught her by her slim waist as she slid out of the saddle. Dang, she smelled good. He touched her hair lightly, pushing a stray strand out of her face before stepping back to regain his composure. “Hi,” she whispered, smiling up at him. Man, was he in trouble. Only one word out of her mouth and his body already reacted. He took a deep breath and walked over to grab the stick from Brutus. “Trying to wear out the beast.” Penny laughed that magical, infectious laugh she had. She sat down

on the steps of the porch and joined him in throwing sticks to the dogs. As the sun disappeared and darkness descended, both dogs lay down at their feet panting in happy dog bliss. Penny was enjoying herself immensely. The urgency she felt earlier vanished on the ride over. This seemed right—and normal. She pictured herself coming home from a long day at camp and simply throwing sticks in the yard to their dogs or chasing their kids around until dark. And then tumbling into bed, happy and exhausted—but not too exhausted. She shook her head to bring herself back to the present and stop that

train of thought. “You wanted to talk. Come inside and have a beer?” “I’d love that.” She followed Luke and the dogs onto the porch and inside. After emptying the water bowl in fast gulps, both dogs lay down on the cool hardwood floor to recover. Luke grabbed two Coors from the fridge and handing a frosty bottle to her, settled on the couch next to her. Although a couple of feet separated them, she could feel heat radiating off his body. He clinked his bottle to hers, and took a long swig. “So what do you want to talk about?” No time like the present. She took a

deep breath. “I had dinner last night with Ryan and Willow, and they had an interesting proposition.” She paused and watched Luke take another drink. She wanted those lips on her. “They received a grant for an assistant camp director, and they offered me the position.” The smile that popped onto his face reminded her of the sun bursting above the horizon. It engulfed his entire face. In response, she smiled back into those sterling blue eyes. “Did you accept?” “Not yet. I wanted to talk to you first.” He set his beer down on the coffee table and moved a few inches closer.

“About?” “About you and me. If there is still a you and me.” “I wasn’t sure you wanted there to be.” “Well, I do. Maybe I always have.” She put her bottle down beside his and slid her legs across his lap. He responded, putting his arm around her back and pulling her into him. She gazed into his warm eyes now only a few inches from her own. “After that night with you when I first got back, I haven’t been able to get you out of my head. I don’t even know any more why I ever left. I guess I just didn’t want to be useless. Peakview seemed like a dead

end. I’ll never be content to be just a housewife. Helping disadvantaged kiddos means the world to me. I didn’t think I could have both you and a fulfilling job. But now….” “What about Darren?” “It’s Darrell, and that relationship is over, regardless of where you and I end up.” Luke was still smiling—a good sign. “What do you want to do? This is your decision, not mine. I don’t ever want to be that person who keeps you from your dreams.” “Peakview is home. While I thought I was coming this summer for a short vacation, I soon realized it was more

than that. It felt good—right. I love our little mountain community. And there you were on the roof. Still here and building my dream home. That was unfair you know.” She reached her arm up and tangled her fingers in the hair at the back of his neck and gently touched his lips with hers. “I can’t be here and not be with you. It would be too hard. All my memories have you in them. All my dreams. Can I have another chance? Or is it too late?” “Why would it be too late?” He brushed her lips gently back with his own. “I came by last night to talk. Rumor has it that you were at Apple Creek

Saloon with a cute little brunette.” She searched his eyes for the truth. Luke laughed. “Are you sure you want to move back to a small town? Nothing is ever a secret here. I went there with Chip. He badgered me until I danced, a two-step, with the roommate of the girl he was trying to pick up. That’s all. I promise. Not that she wasn’t cute, but my heart belongs to you. Always has—always will.” She started to reply but he touched her lips gently with his finger, and pulled her closer. “I love you, Penny.” His voice sounded husky as he found her mouth with his. His kiss, gentle at first, deepened with an urgency that matched

her own. Encircling her other arm around his neck, she held on for her life. She didn’t ever want the kiss to end. Losing all track of time as his tongue tangled with hers, every inch of her body lit on fire with need. There was no turning back now. When he slowly pulled back, she opened her eyes to gaze into his. The corners of his luscious mouth turned up. “Bedtime,” he breathed and picked her up in his strong arms and carried her to the bedroom, kicking the door behind them with his foot to the dismay of the two dogs. “No interruptions tonight. They’re on their own.”

Without turning on a light, Luke moved to the big four-poster bed and laid her gently down on his soft, comforter covered in images of deer and elk. A beam of light from the full moon outside shone through the window casting a soft glow around the love of his life. Good choice not to wear any shoes, less to worry about now. He reached down and slowly pulled off both of her boots and then the socks beneath them and paused to plant light kisses on her toes. He heard her breath catch. After reaching in his nightstand and pulling out one of the small foil packets, he carefully lay down beside her.

“You’re so beautiful. I want to look at you. All of you.” He kissed her as gently as he could muster in his current stage of excitement, before grabbing both sides of her blouse and ripping the snaps apart. Penny moaned and lifted slightly to allow him to slip the shirt from her arms. Throwing it on the floor, he reached back and unfastened her bra with one quick movement and threw it the way of the shirt. Before he could lie down beside her, she reached up and did the same to his shirt, sliding it off his arms and making his skin tingle with every touch of her fingers. Joining her, he felt warmth of her skin on his as they melded together on the bed.

Penny held him close, running her fingernails up and down his bare back as she felt his hardness press against her thigh. She moaned. She’d never get enough of this man. She felt her own body react, getting wetter with each touch, each kiss. He pulled his mouth from hers and made his way down her neck until he found her nipple and began to suck. At the same time his hand slid beneath the waist of her jeans and cupped her butt pulling her tightly against him. She groaned and moved her hips against him. He sucked harder now, biting at her nipple and she heard herself call out his name as she tumbled over the edge in the most intense orgasm. She lay

back and put her hand on his chest to feel his heart beating as fast as hers. “I love you, Penny.” “I love you, too. I want you now. Inside of me.” She unzipped his jeans and pushed them down his hips. He returned the favor doing the same to hers. They both wiggled out of their pants and underwear leaving nothing separating their throbbing bodies. Slipping on the condom, he shifted and then he was inside her. They were as one at last.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

At some point in the night, they managed to crawl underneath the covers, and after several rounds of lovemaking she fell asleep cuddled at his side. He loved the way her chest moved up and down and her mouth fell open as she slept. He wanted this since his wet dreams when they were twelve. As tired as he was, he didn’t close his eyes right away, he’d watch her sleep in his arms

all night if he could stay awake. When he awoke to sunlight streaming through the window, she still slept on his chest. He kissed her awake and made love to her again. “What time is it?” She said groggily. “Who cares? It’s Sunday—a day of rest. Maybe we should stay in bed all day.” Penny laughed, that sweet, sparkling laugh that could turn any day into a sunny one. “Good plan, but I have important stuff to do today.” “Such as?” “Such as accept my new job offer and talk to my parents. They’ll be so

happy.” “You haven’t told them yet?” “No, I didn’t want to get their hopes up.” Penny glanced at her phone. “Luke it’s after 10:00. They’ll already be on their way to church.” “Well, then we’ve got at least another hour. Reverend White is not known for his short sermons.” Penny pushed herself up on her elbows and tweaked the end of his nose. “Slow down. We’ve got a lifetime ahead of us. Let’s not wear ourselves out in the first twenty-four hours. I’d love some coffee.” Reluctantly, he climbed out of the warm bed and found a pair of sweats to

pull on. “Stay there. I’ll be right back.” He opened the door only to be almost run over by two excited dogs. They made a beeline for the bed, and he turned to see Penny laughing as she was smothered in doggy kisses. “Come on dogs. Time to go outside.” Penny slid into her underwear and a shirt of Luke’s which she found lying on the floor. After running a brush through her hair and rinsing off her smeared mascara, she followed the aroma of coffee to the kitchen. The dogs stood side by side, each trying to eat faster than the other. “I feel terrible that we

forgot about them this morning.” “They survived. I gave them a little extra food for the wait.” Luke turned around and grinned handing her a steaming mug. “Nice outfit. I could get used to this in the morning.” That’s when it hit her. She was happy. Really happy—for the first time in as long as she could remember. “Want some breakfast? I could make you a bowl of cereal.” “No thanks. Coffee is fine. I probably should get home soon. Maybe beat my parents home from church.” “Are they going to be upset that you didn’t come home last night?” “Normally I’d say yes, but when I

tell them my news, they’re going to be so excited, they’ll overlook it.” She perched on the edge of a stool at his kitchen counter. She liked waking up with Luke. She could picture herself doing this for the rest of her life. They hadn’t really talked about their future, but he appeared to be on the same page. Her decision made, she was anxious to put her plans in motion. “What’s your agenda for the day?” He sat down next to her and ran a finger up her leg and under the shirt that rode up on the stool leaving her leg exposed. Her body reacted instantly, quivers running up to her heart. “Behave, or I’ll never get out of

here.” “That’s the plan.” He grinned at her. That silly, heartwarming grin of his. “Seriously. I need to talk to my parents and Ryan and Willow.” She also needed to return Darrell’s five million phone calls, but she saw no point in mentioning that to Luke. She’d take care of it and be free to give all of her love to him for the rest of her life. “Can’t they wait?” “They could, but so can you.” She stood up and gave him a playful swat to the side of his head. “Don’t worry, I won’t go far away.” He pulled her to him then, laying his forehead again her chest and holding her

tight. “In case I didn’t tell you enough last night, I love you.” “Love you, too. Now let me find my clothes.” *** Dad’s pickup was not in the driveway when she got back. She poured herself another cup of coffee and grabbed a banana from the bowl on the counter and headed out to the front porch. She stretched out on the chaise lounge letting the warm, morning sun beat down on her. She closed her eyes for a second and was almost asleep, when she heard the crunch of tires in the

driveway. Pulling herself awake, she sat up and watched her parents cross the yard. “I wondered when you’d show up.” Her mom stopped next to her, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Did you have a nice time with Luke?” Penny felt her cheeks warm. “Yes, I did. I have something I want to discuss with you and Dad. Can we talk for a minute?” Her parents sat down on the porch swing. Dad automatically placed his arm around Mom’s shoulder. She loved their small gestures of affection even after almost thirty years of marriage. She wanted that with Luke. She could have

that with Luke. “What’s up baby girl?” Her dad leaned back and looked at her. “Well, I was wondering if you’d mind having me stay for a while longer?” “What?” A smile broke out of her mom’s face. “Ryan and Willow received a grant to keep Peak Adventure open year round and offered me a job as assistant manager. I think it’s time I come home to stay. Luke agrees.” “Oh honey, I’m so happy. This is what I’ve always dreamed of.” Her mom almost spilled Dad out of the swing jumping up to hug Penny.

Dad smiled at his two favorite girls. “You can stay as long as you like. You know that. This is your home. I don’t think I’ve seen your mom this excited since the day we brought you home from the hospital. What changed your mind?” “It felt right to be back all summer. And there’s Luke…honestly, I never stopped loving him. But I worked so hard to get my degree, and I really want to help youth in trouble. I just couldn’t figure out how I could stay in Peakview and follow my dreams at the same time. Then this job offer—it’s an answer to my prayers. Now, I get to be home, and help children in need. It’s perfect.” “God works in mysterious way. I

asked Reverend White to pray for you and your path this morning, God must have been listening. When does the job start?” Her mom sat back down on the swing. “Pretty soon. Ryan and Willow are going to take a few days off the end of next week after summer camp ends. Then we’ll start right up. They offered me a room at the ranch, if you’d rather I get out of your hair.” “Nonsense. We couldn’t be happier to have you. I’m sure you’ll be more comfortable in your own room. Now, what’s going on between you and Luke?” Penny could hear the joy in her mother’s voice and see the sparkle in her

eyes. “We’re going to try and be a couple again. Don’t rush things, Mom. We’ve both grown up over the past few years. I can’t picture my life without him, and he feels the same way about me.” “This calls for a celebration. Get ahold of that young man and invite him over for Sunday dinner.” “Okay, Mom. But first, I need to ride over to the camp and let Ryan and Willow know that I accept their offer.” *** Penny held the reins loosely and let Ginger meander at her own pace along

the path by the creek. Life was good. Ryan and Willow were so excited when she gave them her decision. They’d be wonderful bosses. Ryan was going to write up an employment contract, and she agreed to meet with them one night later in the week to go over final details. At a high spot in the trail where she knew that she’d have cell reception, she reined Ginger to a stop and tied her to the nearest tree, before climbing up a large boulder that overlooked a small waterfall below. She smiled remembering that this had been one of her favorite places to meet Luke when they were in high school and needed some time alone together. She could still

feel his lips and the way he gently kissed away all her worries. Now, hopefully, he’d do that for many years to come. She thought back to last night, and her body responded to the memory. Luke was an amazing lover. She’d always known he would be. She couldn’t imagine ever getting enough of him. She brought herself back to the present, pulling her phone out of her jean pocket before sitting down. She hit the familiar number. “Hey, it’s me.” “Hey, beautiful. Do you miss me already?” Penny laughed. “Mom and Dad insist that you come over for Sunday dinner. Is that okay?”

“Sure thing, as long as your dad doesn’t intend to shoot me for compromising your virtue last night.” Penny laughed harder. “You’re in luck. They’re so excited that I’m staying, all they want to do is celebrate. See you in a couple of hours.” Penny disconnected and frowned at her phone. She had to face the music sometime. She took a deep breath and hit the button to call Darrell. “It’s about time. I’ve been trying to call you for two days. I was beginning to think something bad happened to you. We need to talk about the start of the year.” He paused to take a breath, and she

plunged in. “That’s why I’m calling. I’ve decided to stay in Peakview— permanently.” Silence. “What? You’re kidding, right. You have a job that starts in a few days. I don’t understand.” More silence. “It’s that cowboy isn’t it? I knew there was something between the two of you. Has our whole relationship been a lie?” “It’s not like that.” “Then what’s it like, Penny? You tell me. You’re not only letting me down but also the school and the kids. Do they even know you aren’t coming back? How could you do this?” Darrell’s voice

cracked. “I’m sorry. I really am. It’s just that being back here this summer made me realize that this is where I belong. I’m not a city girl. Never will be. I got offered a job at the camp where I’ve been volunteering. I’ll be able to help kids and live in the mountains. I’m going to call the school tomorrow and let them know. I’m sure they’ll find someone to take my place.” She paused to let him talk, but was only greeted by more silence. He wasn’t making this easy. “Good luck to you this year, I know you’re going to be a great teacher. I hope we can be friends.”

“I don’t think so, Penny. Goodbye.” She heard the click as the line went dead. She wanted to remain friends. Darrell hadn’t done anything wrong. He was a good guy. He just wasn’t right for her. If not before, she knew that for certain last night. She needed passion in her life. Nothing beat the feeling of being madly and hopelessly in love. She had that with Luke, in the past, in the present, and hopefully for the rest of her life. A weight lifted off her chest as she climbed back down to where Ginger waited patiently. She leaned her head against the horse’s soft face and put her arms around her neck. She was home.

*** Luke couldn’t sit still or wipe the silly grin off his face. Last night all his dreams came true. After cleaning the cabin and sweeping off the porch, he whistled for Brutus. “What do you say we get outside and go for a nice long ride?” The puppy wagged his tail and barked in response. Luke walked out to his corral and saddled Geronimo watching his companion run crazy dog circles around the enclosure. As if picking up on his good mood, the dog seemed even more energetic than usual. Brutus had already learned to follow

close behind his horse and not wander off too far unless he gave him the okay. He wound his way down into the large meadow behind the main barns, and signaled to Brutus to go ahead and run. Then with a slight kick of his heals, he let Geronimo take off at a full gallop around the field. Around and around they went, until Brutus started to lag behind, his tongue falling out the side of his mouth. He looked down at the dog and laughed, he might just have worn him out —at least for a few minutes until he got his next burst of energy. Riding up to the main barns, he noticed his dad’s pickup parked in the driveway, signaling that he and June

were back from church. He couldn’t keep his good news to himself any longer. Letting the horse loose in the small corral next to the barn, he watched as Brutus took giant gulps of water from the horse trough and then promptly lay down under a big oak tree. Luke walked up to the back entrance of the ranch house and took all three steps in one giant leap before opening the door into the kitchen. June turned around from where she stood at the sink. “Luke. Good to see you.” Giving his stepmom a hug, he reached around her and poured himself a large glass of water and sat down at the

kitchen table next to his dad. “What are you up to today, son?” Jeff looked up from the Denver Post and laid the paper aside. “Just trying to wear out Brutus. Geronimo and I ran him around the meadow a few times. Mission accomplished, at least for now.” June made herself a cup of tea and refilling Dad’s coffee, sat down to join them. “Do you want to stay for dinner? I’ve got a roast in the oven.” “Thanks, but the Andersons invited me over for dinner.” June raised her eyebrows and glanced over at him. “Doesn’t Penny leave this week?”

Unable to contain it any longer, Luke felt his face stretch into the biggest grin. “She’s staying.” “What?” his parents said in unison. “When did this happen?” “Ryan and Willow are turning their adventure camp into a year-round operation. They offered Penny a full time position as assistant director, and she said yes. I love her, Dad.” Luke watched his father’s forehead wrinkle with concern for him. “Don’t worry, it’s all good. We talked. She loves me and the life we can build here. She just needed to go away for a while so she could find her way back home.” “Well then, I’m happy for you, son.

For both of you. Jeff reached over and patted Luke on the back. Luke took another big swig of his water and asked the question he’d been thinking about all morning. “So I was wondering about Mom’s ring. Would it be alright if I gave it to Penny? I know it meant a lot to you and mom. I can’t think of a better way to ask the love of my life to marry me.” Luke watched his dad’s eyes pool with tears, an unusual sight for the strong, silent rancher. “I’d love that, and I’m sure your mom would, too. I’ve got to imagine she’s looking down from heaven and smiling right now. All she ever wanted

was for you boys to be happy.” “It’s an excellent idea. That way, you and Penny will always have a piece of your mom with you,” June reached over to squeeze his hand. How lucky he felt to have a stepmom who understood about his birth mom and never displayed any jealousy toward her memory. “Thanks, Mom.” He squeezed her hand back. “If all goes according to plan you and Ann will have a wedding to put together soon.” June beamed. “We’ll love that!” After a leisurely conversation about the upcoming week’s workload, Luke headed back to his cabin—a small felt box tucked safely in the front pocket of

his jeans. He showered and put on clean clothes, it was just dinner but he wanted to make a good impression on his future in-laws, and he had a very important question to ask Gary. He didn’t feel right going to dinner empty-handed. He thought about bringing a bottle of wine, but it was Sunday, and Peakview Liquors was closed. He was almost out the door when he remembered that John and Trish had brought him a bottle of champagne when he’d moved into his cabin. He’d stashed it in the pantry, unopened. He turned around and retrieved it. Today was a day to celebrate.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Luke usually rode Geronimo over to the Anderson’s, but today he decided to drive his pickup instead. He shouldn’t smell like a barn—not today. Penny walked out on the porch as he pulled to stop. She wore a yellow and white sundress, her hair loose and blowing in the warm August breeze. Just the sight of her made his heart skip a beat. How was it that someone so beautiful loved him?

He must be the luckiest man alive. He thought he lost her for good, but there she stood smiling and welcoming him back into her life. He vowed to spend the rest of his life making her happy. “Are you going to get out?” Penny walked across the yard to his truck. Pulling himself back to reality, he opened the door and engulfed her in his arms, laying a light kiss on her full lips. “Hey, beautiful. Did you miss me?” She smiled up at him. “Always.” “Luke. So glad you could join us.” Gary’s booming voice rang out from the porch breaking their embrace. “I always enjoy Ann’s cooking. Thanks for having me.” Luke linked his

arm with Penny’s, and they walked up to the house. “I brought some champagne. Penny’s decision to stay in Peakview calls for a celebration.” “I couldn’t agree more.” Gary ushered them into the kitchen, where they were greeted by the aroma of freshcooked sweet corn, and if he wasn’t mistaken, cherry pie. He wouldn’t go home hungry tonight. Ann hugged him with enthusiasm and poured him a big glass of iced tea. After Gary said grace, Luke’s plate was heaped full. The conversation flowed easily and was full of laughter. Although it had been four years since he’d sat down to eat with this second family, it

felt like no time had passed at all. The muscles in his shoulders relaxed. He felt at home. Penny shared the plans she was making for the camp. Her face glowed when she talked about the kids. If any part of him felt guilty for his part in her giving up her job in Chicago, it vanished listening to her now. This job was a perfect fit for her—just as she was a perfect fit for him. When he couldn’t manage another bite of food, he pushed back from the table. “Thank you, Ann. The meal was wonderful.” “You’re more than welcome. Now that Penny is staying, we expect you to be a regular at our dinner table.”

“I’d like that very much.” He reached over and squeezed Penny’s hand and gave her a quick wink. “Well, I’d better get the horses fed,” Gary said standing up and placing a kiss on his wife’s forehead. “Mind if I tag along?” Luke stood to join him. “I’d enjoy the company.” Luke followed the older man into the corral and helped lift the bales of hay. Not that Gary needed any help. Much like his own father, years of working on a ranch had kept him slim and trim and in great shape. After working in silent companionship for several minutes, Gary turned and looked

him square in the eye. “Glad things are working out between you and my little girl. I’ve got to say, that Chicago dude—Darren? He wasn’t right for her. A vegetarian. Can you imagine? I was beginning to question her judgment.” Luke laughed. He agreed one hundred percent. “Speaking of Penny, there is something I wanted to ask you.” Luke paused and took a deep breath. “You know I’ve always loved her, and now by some miracle, it looks like she shares my feelings again. I’d like to ask her to be my wife. Would that be okay with you?” Luke watched Gary’s eyes mist with

tears. In all the years he’d known Penny’s father, he’d never seen him cry. “Okay? Of course, son. Nothing would make me happier.” He wiped a tear from his cheek and gave Luke a quick hug. “I know you’ll treat her the way she deserves to be treated. And having her right next door—an added bonus. I can’t wait to spoil the grandkids. Luke laughed again. “Slow down. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. There’s plenty of time for that later. Thank you for your approval. It means a lot to me.” When they returned to the house, Penny and her mom were sitting on the porch swing enjoying the Colorado

sunset. Ann jumped up and looked at her husband. “Come on, Gary. Help me with the dishes. These young people are probably tired of our company.” Luke started to protest, but she waved him off. “Have a seat by Penny. It’s a beautiful evening.” Luke sat down on the swing and casually laid his arm around Penny’s shoulder. They both stared off into the yellowing sky to the west with Luke’s long legs gently pushing the swing back and forth. “Are you happy with your decision to stay? No second thoughts?” “Nope, not one. I belong here. With you.” He pulled her to his side and gently

caressed her lips with his. She molded into his arms, and he deepened the kiss, tangling his tongue with hers. He could hold her like this forever, but her parents were only a few feet away in the kitchen, so he slowly backed off. Not the time to let things get out of control. “What are your plans for the week?” “First, I need to call the school in the morning and let them know they need to find someone to take my place. My mom said something about taking a trip to town to do some fall clothes shopping. I need some new warm ranch wear for this fall. This may be my last week off for a while, so I plan on relaxing a bit. You?”

“It’s a busy week at our place. Hay harvest starts tomorrow—a hot and dusty week for sure. Usually, I fall into bed at the end of the long twelve hour days, but I’ll try and find some time for you.” “Don’t worry. I’m not going any place. Do what you have to do, and we’ll have more time once the harvest is over. Besides, I know where you live if I start to feel lonely.” She reached over and kissed him again, drawing the contact out and making every inch of his body respond. Luke forced himself to break the embrace and stood up to leave. “I’d better get back. My day starts before

sunrise tomorrow.” He stuck his head inside the screen door. “Thanks again for a wonderful meal. I’ll see you soon.” He walked off the porch, fighting to get his body and his emotions under control. He couldn’t wait until she became his wife, and he could come home to her every night. Now that he had Gary’s blessing, he needed to come up with a plan for his marriage proposal. *** Penny hung up the phone and breathed a sigh of relief. She was glad that was over. The school administrator she’d spoken with was all business and

didn’t throw a guilt trip on her for resigning so close to the beginning of the year. Even though she felt compelled to ramble on about it being a family situation and her being needed in Colorado, all the neutral voice on the other end of the line wanted was her basic information. Her reasons were irrelevant to him. Good. Her life in Chicago now behind her, and it was time to move forward. She glanced around her room—not much had changed since she was in high school. Her old posters and trophies still adorned the walls. Now that she intended to stay should she give it a major overhaul? Transform it into a

more adult space that reflected who she was today? She’d like that, but the more she thought about it, the more she hoped this situation was short-lived. She really wanted to live in Luke’s cabin. The one she’d designed for them all those years ago. She already thought of it as home, and she was fairly certain that if she showed up tonight with her belongings, Luke would welcome her in. But no, she wasn’t going to rush it. They hadn’t really talked about their future since the other night. Her mind already darted ahead to a wedding and children, but was he on the same page? She thought so. He hadn’t mentioned marriage. She’d wait until he brought it

up. Besides, Saturday night aside, her parents wouldn’t be thrilled with them living together until they were married. She didn’t want to disappoint the people she cared about most. Nope, she and Luke had a lifetime in front of them, and she’d stay right here until their wedding night. She just wanted that night to come sooner rather than later. She needed something to occupy her mind and time while Luke was busy with the harvest this week, so when her mom suggested a shopping spree in Denver for Tuesday, she jumped at the opportunity. The wardrobe she had for the Chicago school year wouldn’t cut it at camp. She wanted to get some more

authentic western wear to look the part of a true cowgirl and some warm outer clothing for sledding, hiking, and other outdoor activities was a must. Her list grew as the day went on. Thinking of lists, she picked up the phone and dialed Peak Adventure. “Willow, its Penny. My mom and I are headed to Denver tomorrow. Is there anything you’d like me to pick up while I’m there?” “Actually, Ryan and I are putting together some new brochures for our school year weekends. Do you think you could drop some of them off at a couple of agencies for us? Let them know our plans.”

“I’d be happy to.” “Can you stop by on your way out in the morning? That’ll give us this evening to get them printed.” “Sure thing. See you then.” Despite the fact that she’d decided against her redecorating idea, she spent the day sorting through old belongings and packing up some of her memorabilia. Maybe tomorrow she’d at least buy a new bedspread and some artwork for her walls that didn’t scream sixteen year old girl. *** Penny enjoyed the drive into Denver

with her mom. Once a yearly tradition, they hadn’t made this trip together since her senior year in high school. Talking to her mom about Luke and her hopes and dreams made everything seem right in her world. Although Mom had reluctantly supported her decision to move to Chicago, now she appeared truly happy about her future. After dropping off the brochures, they made stops at a large Western wear store and REI. Despite her protests, her mom insisted on paying for all of her purchases. The back of the SUV was literally stuffed full of shopping bags by the time they parked by their favorite lunch place across the street from Cherry

Creek Mall. “I’m buying,” Penny insisted sliding into a booth. “Thank you for all of the wonderful clothes. You’re the best. I can’t imagine not having a mom who loves you.” “You’re thinking about Marissa, aren’t you?” “Yeah, the last time I was here was with her. It’s so sad, Mom. And there’s so many other children like her out there. I hope working at the camp I can brighten some of their lives.” “I know you will.” Her mom reached across the table and patted her hand. “Do you think after we get what you

want at the mall, we could maybe stop by and see her? I want to tell her that I’m staying in Colorado and about the camp being open year round.” “I don’t see why not. We’re in no hurry. Is that allowed for you to just drop by?” “I really don’t know, but I guess we’ll find out.” After helping her mom with her shopping list, Penny directed her to the neighborhood of the foster home. They turned off the main street and headed down the narrow side streets. “Oh my. This doesn’t look like a very safe neighborhood. Are you sure she’s okay here?”

“I’m not sure of anything, Mom.” They pulled up in front of the worn down bungalow. Grateful that there were no older boys hanging out on the porch this time, she climbed out of the vehicle. Her mom joined her and they walked onto the rickety porch. Mrs. Grant frowned as she opened the door to Penny’s knock. “No one told me you were coming today.” “I’m sorry, I didn’t call. We were in town and wondered if we could spend a little time with Marissa. This is my mom, Ann.” “You’re supposed to let me know ahead of any visits.” “Penny?” Marissa’s excited squeal

rang out. The child burst through the door. “You’re not in Chicago?” The smile that covered Marissa’s small face warmed her heart. “Maybe you’d like to get some ice cream, so I can tell you all about it?” Marissa looked up at Mrs. Grant’s sour-looking face. “Can I pleasssse?” The woman frowned again at Penny. “Well, I guess this once. But from now on you follow the rules and call first.” She looked down at the child. “Go get some shoes on. Have her back in an hour.” She turned and walked into the house. “Goodness.” Her mom’s face wrinkled with concern.

Marissa scurried out the door flipflops now on her feet. Her hair didn’t look as though it had been brushed in a while and her clothes were rumpled, but the smile on her face showed her beauty. “Marissa, this is my mom, Ann.” “Hi,” she said softly. Penny remembered how shy the child was when they first met. “It’s so nice to meet you, Marissa. Penny has told me so much about you, and Bandit talks about missing you all the time.” The child giggled climbing into the back seat. “Dogs don’t talk.” She turned to Penny. “So why aren’t you in Chicago?”

“My plans changed. I’m not moving. I’m going to stay in Peakview and work at the camp. They’re going to be open on weekends during the winter now.” “Yea!” The small face lit up like a Christmas tree. “When do I get to come back to camp? Can I come home with you now?” Penny smiled. “You need to stay here and start school next week, but I promise we’ll get you up there for a weekend real soon.” “Maybe you could even come and stay at our home with Penny some weekend, too. Would you like that?” Her mom added. “Could I really? This is going to be

the best year ever. Could you be my grandma?” Her mom smiled at the child. “Well, you can call me grandma, if you want, but don’t you already have grandmas?” “I guess.” Marissa stared down at her lap. “I don’t know my dad or his mom. He’s in prison. My grammy is real sick.” “Do you have grandkids?” Mom winked at Penny. “Not, yet. But someday.” “Have you seen your grammy recently?” Penny asked. “The caseworker lady took me last week. She was in a big building, in a bed. She was very sleepy, but so happy

to see me. She told me so. I told her I wanted to live with her again, but the lady said she was too sick to take care of me. I’m pretty good at taking care of myself. I wish I could take care of Grammy.” Marissa sighed. Penny tears started to well up again. How could she make this better for this child? “I want to share my family with you. Would that be okay?” Marissa smiled for the first time since they conversation started. “Yup. You already shared your friend, Luke, with me. How are Luke and Brutus?” “Luke’s great, and Brutus is growing so fast he’s going to be the size of a small horse soon. Next time you’re

in Peakview, how about we go up to Luke’s cabin and visit them?” Marissa beamed. “Really? Can we do that? What flavor of ice cream are you getting?” It felt so good to hear the child’s giggles and see her smiling face. Was she happy all the time? As they neared the home after their treat, however, the child’s sunny attitude slowly changed. Tears filled her eyes as she hugged Penny goodbye on the front steps. “I don’t want you to leave me.” Penny fought back her own tears. It wouldn’t help for the child to see her cry. “It’s okay sweetheart. I’ll see you soon, I promise.” She turned and got

back in the car before Marissa could see her own emotions. Penny fell silent as her mom drove out of town and headed up I-70. This world was so unfair sometimes. She thanked God she was staying in Colorado where she could watch out for this little one. Marissa deserved a permanent home where she’d have parents and grandparents who loved her forever, not some temporary foster home. She made a mental note to call the department of human services and see what she could find out about the child’s grandmother, and if there were any other options for this poor child. She’d make sure that Marissa didn’t fall through the

cracks of the overcrowded system.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Luke plopped down in one of the Adirondack chairs on his deck, too tired to even make it inside the cabin. It had been a long, hot week. Baling hay was a strenuous, dirty job, but they were almost finished—for this year at least. The extra workers they’d hired and the hot dry days let them get the work done in record time. He hadn’t seen Penny since Sunday,

and he missed her smiling face and all the other parts of her, too. Somehow he survived four long years without her, but now…. a few days seemed too long. He smiled, going over his plan for tomorrow night one more time in his mind. He pushed his aching body up and went inside to grab a cold Coors and his cell phone. Brutus followed, looking almost as tired as he was. The puppy had been with them in the fields all week, running who knows how many miles chasing rabbits and anyone who took time to play with him. Luke decided against sitting on any of his furniture until some of the day’s dirt and grime was washed off, so he whistled for

Brutus and went back out on the porch. The sun was already setting to the west and the gentle evening breeze cooled his sunburned skin. Penny answered on the first ring. “Hey, stranger. How’s your week been?” A smile covered his face at the mere sound of her voice. “Exhausting—dusty —hot, but we’re almost done.” “Glad to hear it. Do you want some company? Ginger and I could head over that way.” “Tempting. Very tempting, but I’m covered in dirt, and as soon as I can drag myself into the shower, I’m going to hit my bed.” His body reacted as his mind pictured her in the shower with

him. “How about we wait until tomorrow night when I don’t have to be up at the crack of dawn? “Oh, okay. I guess we can do that.” His heart broke at the sound of disappointment in her voice, but he wanted their next time together to be special. “We’re going to be done working early tomorrow. Want to come over around five? We can take a nice long evening ride and then put together some dinner.” “I’d love that. See you then. And Luke, think about me tonight. I’ll be picturing you in bed beside me.” He groaned. “No fair. And you can count on it. Sleep tight, my love.”

He stood up and disconnected. If he sat any longer he would fall asleep in the chair. Stripping out of his grimy clothes and climbing into the warm spray of water, his thoughts turned back to Penny. He couldn’t wait until she stayed here every single night. He needed her as much as he needed his life here on the Walker ranch. She completed him in every way. Stepping out of the shower he toweled off, and fell into bed naked, soon fast asleep dreaming of his soul mate. ***

How was it only two o’clock? Penny glared down at her watch for the umpteenth time today. Awake at the crack of dawn, the day had crawled by. She’d worked on plans for camp all morning. When Mom asked her to accompany her into Peakview to pick up some supplies at the hardware store and grab a late lunch at Violet’s, she jumped at the chance to get out of the house. Make the time pass quicker. Arriving at Violet’s she was the center of attention. Any tidbit of gossip spread like wildfire in their tiny town, and the news that she was staying in Peakview was apparently the news of the week. Neighbor after neighbor

stopped by their booth to ask about her job at the camp and, of course, what this all meant for her and Luke. Finally, they were the last remaining customers in the café. Violet, the queen of Peakview gossip, slid into the seat next to her mom. “So you and Luke are a couple again? I always said the two of you were meant to be together. I’m so happy for you. When’s the wedding?” Penny blushed. “Everyone needs to slow down. He hasn’t even asked me yet.” She patted the older women’s hand. “Don’t worry. I’m sure when he does you’ll be the first to know.” “If I see that boy, I’m going to ask him what he’s waiting for. Life’s too

short to waste time. Men! I didn’t think my Howard was ever going to get around to proposing. I guess he was worth waiting for though. Ever since our wedding, our nights are pure heaven.” Violet smiled and winked at her. Penny forced a smile. Now she was picturing the sixty-something year old couple in bed together, not a welcome image. “When he does pop the question, keep me in mind. I’d be happy to cater the reception.” Penny jumped at the chance to change the subject to food. “I’d like that. I’ll let you know.” The door creaked open, and Penny

turned to see Melanie. Her friend hugged her as she slid in next to her. “I hear you’re staying. I’m so excited to get to spend some more time with you. And congratulations on you and Luke being a couple again.” “Thanks. And thanks for being such a good friend and giving me some excellent advice.” Violet looked over at her stepdaughter. “Now we just need to find a good man for you. Penny, do you have any ideas?” “I think I have enough to handle with the bookstore and Sophie. I don’t need a man to complicate my life. Just concentrate on getting one person

married off at a time.” Melanie turned back to Penny. “So has he asked you to marry him yet?” “Not yet, but as I just told Violet, I’m sure everyone in this town will know when he does.” Normally she’d enjoy all the friendly conversations, but not today. She glanced at her watch again. All she wanted was for the day to end so she could be with Luke—feel his arms around her and his lips on hers. It had been almost a week since they’d spent the night together—a week too long. ***

At exactly 5:00 p.m., Penny hugged her mom goodbye. “Don’t wait up,” she said before crossing the yard to the barn. She climbed on Ginger and called Bandit to follow her as she headed out the gate and across the field that led to the Walker Ranch. She’d stressed about what to wear, which was ridiculous. It was just a horseback ride, still…she wanted to look her best. She’d curled her long, blond hair and left it down, putting on some nice, clean jeans, her good boots, and a white tank top. She tied a flannel shirt around her waist, since even on these hot, Indian summer days, the air cooled as the sun went down. She rode out of the trees and the

cabin came into view. Luke stood on the porch, and she heard the welcome “woof” as Brutus came charging down to greet Bandit. Luke waved and walked down to greet her, catching her by the waist as she slid from the saddle. “I missed you,” he breathed in a husky voice as his lips found hers, kissing her gently at first and then deepening the kiss, pulling her body close until they molded together as one. She wound her arms around his muscular neck and tangled her fingers in the hair. A moan escaped her throat as she pressed against his warm, hard body. She could easily skip the ride and dinner and start making love to him right now.

Too soon, Luke pulled back and gazed into her eyes, his voice still husky. “We should take that ride, before the sun goes down. There’ll be plenty of time for other activities later tonight. I don’t plan on letting you leave until morning.” Her body quivered at the thought of a whole night together, but he was right. It would be a shame to miss out on such a gorgeous evening. Cold weather would be here soon. She did love riding with him. She reached up and touched the peeling skin on tip of his nose. “You’re sunburned. Is all the hay in?” “Yep.” He grinned, that charming boyish grin. “I’m all yours.”

He’d saddled Geronimo before she arrived and tied him to the hitching rail in front of his cabin. The saddlebag on the back held the small velvet box, along with a bottle of champagne and two glasses. If all went well, he’d slip a ring on her finger before the sun slipped behind the western mountains. After they’d mounted their horses and called the dogs to follow, Luke led the way down the hill to the main ranch and through the gates into the vast meadow west of the barns. As they entered the field, Penny rode up beside him and he reached over and took her hand in his. Her skin was soft. He remembered the first time he’d reached over and

entwined his fingers with hers while on a ride. It must have been almost ten years ago. They were in Junior High, and it was the first time he’d ever held hands with a girl. He remembered the tingling sensation that had cursed through his body. Not much different than the sensation it gave him today. Fortunately for them, Ginger and Geronimo had grown up together. Just as they had. The horses were content to walk side by side. As they rode slowly through the grass, he asked her about her week, and enjoyed her stories about her plans for the camp. “I saw Marissa when Mom and I were in Denver.”

“How’s she doing?” “Okay, I guess. I promised to get her up to camp soon. She wants to come visit you and Brutus.” He looked over at her, a sadness showing in her eyes. He rubbed his thumb against her palm. “I’d love to see her. Maybe she can come for dinner sometime or spend the day riding with us.” “She’d love that. I’m glad I’m going to be around to keep an eye on her situation. Her grandma, the only real family she has, is sick and in a nursing home. She seems to feel all alone in the world. The foster home doesn’t give her much love. I’m so happy right now, I want to share some of my happiness with

her.” Her voice trailed off. “Oh, and we seem to be the main topic of Peakview gossip right now.” He laughed. “I could have guessed that one. That’s life in a small town. I wouldn’t trade it though.” “Me either.” She looked back over at him. “Although when Violet started to get into her sex life, I changed the subject fast.” They both laughed. He recounted some humorous stories from the week’s harvest. In the cooling air, Luke breathed in the sweet scent of new mown hay. There was nothing in the world that compared to that fragrance. Home—it smelled like home. He hoped their kids

would grow up with the same appreciation for the land. They had reached the far end of the meadow, and he turned Geronimo toward the small path leading up the hill. “Let’s watch the sun set from the ridge.” “Sounds nice.” She reined Ginger in behind him and they wound up the narrow, rocky path to the top. They fell into a comfortable silence, surrounded by sounds of the wind in the aspen leaves, the water falling gently down the creek bed, and the occasional rustling of the dogs forging their own paths through the brush. When they emerged from the trees near his mother’s memorial, he reined to a stop. This was it. The

biggest event in his life since the day they had spread Mom’s ashes here among the rocks. Only this time, his heart was full of hope and happiness. His mother deserved to be a part of this moment, and he felt her presence surround him. Penny dismounted and after tying her reins to a nearby tree, and followed Luke over to the small bench which had been placed on the edge of the hillside in remembrance of his mother. She sat down beside him and took his hand in hers. Gazing out at the orange and purple sky outlining the setting sun, she knew how much this place meant to him. She

felt honored that he was willing to share it with her. It was windier up here out of the protection of the trees. She shivered and untied the shirt from around her waist. Luke reached over and took it, helping her thread her arms into the sleeves. He grabbed the front edges and pulled her to him, placing a light kiss on her lips. “I love you Penny Anderson.” “I love you, too, Luke Walker.” She pressed her lips to his. “I’ll be right back.” Luke stood up and walked over to Geronimo and opened his saddlebag. Had he brought a blanket for them? Instead, he pulled out a small box, a

bottle and two glasses. Her heart began to race like a stallion running from a storm. She could feel it pounding against her chest. Luke walked back and got down on one knee in front of the bench. She felt her left hand tremble as he grabbed it in his own strong hand. “Penny, would you do me the great honor of becoming my wife.” His eyes filled with tears—tears of joy. “Yes, yes, yes! A thousand times, yes.” She shouted into the wind as he slipped the ring onto her finger. She looked down. It was simple, yet beautiful. “Do you like it? It was my mother’s ring. It has a special place in my heart. I

know she would be thrilled for you to wear it.” He looked at her hopefully. “I love it. It’s perfect. And I’m honored to wear her ring.” She blinked back the tears that filled her own eyes as he rejoined her on the bench, and his mouth found hers. The kiss lasted a long time, she wanted it to last forever. Suddenly she felt large paws on her lap and opened her eyes to a warm tongue licking her cheek, as if to say, “hey, don’t forget about us dogs.” Luke started to scold the puppy, but she stopped him. “Hey, its fine. I guess I’m going to have two furry kids now. They’ll be good training for the real thing. You still want to have kids, don’t

you?” “As many as you want. I built our cabin to be filled with children. Any time you want to start practicing…” He smiled that devilish smile that had won her heart for a second time. “One step at a time. Let’s plan a wedding first.” Luke picked up the bottle of champagne and shot the cork over the edge of the cliff. He filled the glasses and handed her one. “A toast to us and our future here on Walker Ranch.” She clinked glasses with him, and took a sip. “To our future.” The sun had completely disappeared behind the mountain by the

time they saddled up and headed down the steep trail. Fortunately, the horses knew the trail and the way home. Luke led the way, shining a large flashlight in front of them on the path. She smiled— he came prepared. As they neared the edge of the meadow that led to the cabin —her cabin, Luke reined in Geronimo and let her ride up alongside him. A full moon was just rising in the East illuminating the landscape like daylight. Luke returned the flashlight to his bag and looked over at her with mischief in his eyes. “Last one home cooks breakfast.” “You’re on.” Luke spurred Geronimo who took

off at a full out run across the meadow. Laughing she slapped Ginger’s rump with her reins and galloped into her future.

Peakview, Colorado-Where everyone has a chance at love. Go back to where it all began and pick up a copy of COLORADO SUNSET, and BREAKFAST FOR TWO available at Amazon.com. Melanie Gentry came to Peakview, Colorado to find a father she never knew existed. In this small mountain town, along with her fourteen year old daughter, Sophie, she’s establishing a new life. But will her new life include romance? Read on for a sneak peak of

chapter one of COLORADO WRANGLER coming in the summer of 2016:

CHAPTER ONE

Melanie pulled open the blinds on the picture window of her book store, Sophie’s Choice. Really? It was snowing? But it was only the first week of September. When people said they had bipolar weather here in the mountains of Central Colorado, they were right. She looked down at her feet. At least, she had chosen boots for today. Although they were far from snow boots,

at least they should keep her feet dry. She had saved all her change from tips at her previous waitress job in Columbus, Ohio for many months to splurge on these boots. Their soft tan leather and three inch spiked heels, accented her not so long legs. At thirty-one, she prided herself on her still thin frame and her long blonde hair. She shrugged into her daughter’s jean jacket hanging by the front door and prepared to dash across the street to Violet’s café for her morning coffee. As she stepped outside into the large falling flakes, it didn’t look too bad, not much more than an inch of the fluffy stuff was covering the ground. She

pulled the jacket around her neck, and hurried to cross the deserted highway that ran through the center of the small town of Peakview. About half way to her destination, one of her heels hit a patch of ice hidden by the new snow, and she went down hard. As she struggled to right herself, she could feel the icy, wet snow seeping through her jeans. Gosh, she hoped no one was looking out of the windows at Violet’s to observe her klutzy move. She wiggled her right ankle and winced in pain. “Are you okay? Here let me help you.” The familiar strong, masculine voice rang out from behind her back. Great, the one person in all of Peakview

County that she cared about impressing had seen her fall like a flatlander. “I think I’m fine,” she managed to say as the tall, sexy cowboy stepped into her view. From her embarrassing vantage point in the middle of a snow covered street, she looked up into his big brown eyes. His large tanned hands reached down and grabbed hers pulling her to her feet. She winced again as she put weight on her ankle. “You sure you’re okay?” He looked at her with concern in his eyes. “Yep. I must have twisted my ankle when I fell.” “He looked down at her boots and frowned. “No wonder you slipped on the

ice. What are you doing wearing those heels in the snow?” She glared up at him. “What is it doing snowing the first week of September?” His handsome face crinkled in a smile. “Darlin’ you’re not in Kansas anymore. You best invest in some snow boots before winter really sets in.” He reached around her and brushed the snow off the back on her jacket, then lowered his hand to brush off the back of her designer jeans. His fingers paused and lingered on her butt. Suddenly the chill she was feeling from the wet denim was replaced by a burst of warmth that ran all the way up her body. Quickly he

stepped back, his cheeks turning as bright a shade of crimson as the bandana he wore around his neck. Had he felt it, too? “Grab ahold of my arm and let me get you safely inside.” “Sounds wonderful.” She clutched on to his elbow and leaned against him for support. She didn’t need a man to support her, but right now she wasn’t complaining. A warm blast of air assaulted them as they walked through the door of the café. “Mornin’ Violet.” Hank removed his Stetson as they entered. Seeing Violet’s grin, Melanie

quickly let go of his strong, muscular arm. Although she loved her new stepmom more than she could describe, everyone knew that all local rumors started here in the café. She had no idea what was going on between the two of them, and the last thing she needed was the whole town gossiping about them before she’d had the chance to figure it out. Ever since her dad and Violet found marital bliss last spring, Violet was determined to find it for everyone else in the small town, too. “My goodness. What happened to you?” Violet gave her a concerned look. “Nothing really. I slipped on the ice outside, and Hank was kind enough to

give me a hand up. I’m fine.” “You need some better boots for this weather.” Violet glanced down at her feet. Why did everyone keep repeating the obvious? She wasn’t a total idiot. And who prepared for snow when summer wasn’t technically over yet? “I’ll work on that. She plopped down on a stool at the counter next to her rescuer. “Two strong cups of coffee and a couple of orders of your fresh biscuits.” Hank looked at her and smiled. “Saving damsels in distress is hard work.” A collective chuckle rose from the other local ranchers who filled the café. “Funny.” She punched him in the

ribs with her elbow and grabbed the hot mug that Violet set in front of her and cupped it to warm her cold fingers. Time to change the subject. “I want to thank you for all the time and energy you’ve put into teaching Sophie to ride. Horses are all she talks about these days. She wants to get one and keep it in our small backyard.” “My pleasure. She’s a great kid. And she’s becoming a great horsewoman, too.” The way his eyes crinkled when he smiled. Did he have any idea how much sex appeal he exuded? “I know you’re busy. Just let her know if she gets in your way.”

“Speaking of riding, when are you going to come up to Peaktop Ranch for a lesson of your own? Sophie keeps talking about how much she wants you to ride with her. Now that our prime dude season has come to an end and the local kids are back in school, I have plenty of time during the week. We’re only busy on weekends.” As much as she liked the idea of spending more time with this cowboy, she wasn’t sure about the horse thing. She’d never been much of an animal person, and horses were huge. She was still nervous about her fourteen-year-old being on one. Falling off into the dust would be even more embarrassing than

slipping in the street. “I…I don’t want to impose. I’m sure you have better things to do with your time.” “Can’t think of one. Come on out any time this week, and we’ll get you mounted up. You’ll love it. I promise. Of course, you’ll need some better boots.” There was that smile again. And those dimples on each side of his face. “Well, I think I should wait a few days until the snow goes away at least.” “You really need to learn about Colorado weather, darlin’. Look outside, with that sun peeking through the clouds, it’ll all be gone before noon. Could be 80 degrees tomorrow.”

With that he stood up and threw some bills on the counter. “The young lady’s breakfast is on me, Violet.” She started to protest, to tell him that her parents didn’t charge her for her meals, but thought better of it and stopped herself. Chivalry was attractive on him. “Thanks.” “No problem.” He placed the Stetson back on his head and tipped the brim as he headed for the door. “You be careful walking back across the street.” Her eyes followed his ass as he walked across the room. Then he was gone, and she let out an unconscious sigh. “A woman could do a lot worse than that cowboy.” Violet’s voice made

her jump as she refilled her coffee. “Not in the market.” Melanie hugged the older lady before heading to the door, herself. “Have a nice day.” *** Hank cranked the key several times before the old ranch pickup sputtered to a start. He made a mental note to buy a new battery before winter set in. As he pulled out of the sleepy little town, he smiled as his thoughts returned to the events of his morning so far. What was it about that little blonde that got to him? He didn’t have much use for women in his life. In the eight years that he’d

been the head wrangler for the Peytons who owned Peaktop Dude Ranch, he’d successfully managed to avoid any entanglements with members of the fairer sex. He liked it that way. He’d always related better to horses than females. Not that there hadn’t been plenty of opportunities. Many lady guests from back east seemed to want a quick affair with a real, live cowboy. Even some of the married ones had made him sly offers. He knew better than to mix business with pleasure though and politely declined all requests. None of them really wanted him, just the idea of him. Living the cowboy life as he did in the small room above the saddle barn,

offered little to a woman in the long run. Of course, he’d had a few one night stands years ago when he’d been on the rodeo circuit and was young and foolish. But now that he was about to turn forty, he had closed the door on that part of his life—forever. Still, as he parked the truck behind the barn, he hoped that Melanie would take him up on his offer for riding lessons. It wouldn’t be awful to spend a little more time with her. *** Melanie was extra careful as she made her way back across the icy street.

She pushed open the unlocked door and turned the sign to OPEN. Not that she thought many people were likely to come in today, but any sales helped out. She was surprised with how well the little shop did since opening last May. The summer tourists had kept her busy, but now that her daughter was back in school and most of out-of-state tourists had returned home, she had some extra time on her hands. She could sit there all day and daydream about Hank’s chocolate eyes, but she had work to do. Time to order some more books. She wanted to replace some of the wildflower and hiking guides, which had been her best sellers during the summer,

with some about skiing and snowshoeing for the winter. And maybe she should carry some more romance novels, ones featuring sexy, rugged cowboys. She laughed to herself. She had never been one for reading romances. She was a realist. Her life had been hard, and men who crossed her path generally were huge disappointments. She didn’t believe in happily ever after. Not since Sophie’s low life father left before his daughter turned one. Nope, the love of her life had been her daughter for fourteen years, and she intended to keep it that way. On the other hand, it was important to Sophie that she share in her new found

love of horses, just like they’d shared everything since the child’s birth, so she supposed she could spend a little time with an attractive cowboy to make that happen. She was so engrossed in her book orders, that she barely heard the front door open a couple hours later. “Melanie? You here?” Penny Anderson’s cheerful voice called out. “Here in back. I’ll be right out.” When she entered the main store, Penny had already taken off her coat and sat down at one of the round reading tables. “What brings you to town on this cold morning?” “I needed some girl talk. Do you

have some coffee?” “Let me grab you a cup.” She poured one for her friend and freshened her own. It wasn’t as good as Violet’s, but a pot keep her going throughout the morning. Although ten years her junior, Penny had rapidly become her best friend in Peakview. “How are the wedding plans coming along?” Penny had recently returned to her home town and fallen back in love with her high school sweetheart, Luke. “Good, I guess. My mom and June are all over it. We’ve set a date. December 31st. Mark your calendar.” “I’m so excited for you. Let me

know if there is anything I can do to help.” “Actually that’s one of the reasons I stopped by. I was wondering if you would be my maid of honor?” “Really?” Tears formed in the corner of Melanie’s eyes. “I’m flattered, but don’t you have a friend from high school you’d rather ask?” “There’s not anyone I’m that close to anymore. You were such a big help when I was trying to figure out how I felt about Luke. I can’t tell you how much it helped. I’d be honored if you would stand up with me.” “In that case, I accept.” She walked over and hugged her friend.

“So what’s new on the Hank front?” Melanie had almost forgotten that she’d brought up Hank to her friend. “Funny you should ask.” Penny laughed as she recounted the events of the morning in all their glorious detail. “So you are going to take him up on his offer of riding lessons, aren’t you?” “I don’t know. Horses scare me. What if I’m awful at it?” “It’s easy, you’ll see. I bet you’ll love it. There’s nothing like the feel of the wind in your face on a ride. Of course, I was riding before I learned to walk, but you can learn. I’d teach you myself, but something tells me you’ll have more fun with Hank.” Penny

winked. “What’s stopping you? I’m sure he’ll take it nice and slow at first until you get the hang of it.” Melanie felt her checks warm as her mind immediately turned to other things she wanted Hank to take nice and slow. She hoped Penny hadn’t noticed. “You’re right. I’m going to do it. But he’s right, I need the proper attire, maybe some cowboy boots and cute new jeans?” “Now you’re talking about something I can help you with. I’m headed down to Fort Collins tomorrow to start looking at dresses for the wedding. Can you close the store for the day? We can kill two birds with one

stone. You can help me with ideas for bridesmaid dresses, and I’ll help you find some killer boots.” “It’s a deal.” As much as she loved living in Peakview, she had to admit that a day back in civilization sounded fun. The next time Hank saw her in boots, she hoped he’d be more impressed.

Acknowledgements: I would like to thank all of my fellow author friends who are taking this amazing journey called writing with me. As always, I thank my critique partner, Cassidy Jo Wells, who has spent countless hours reading and rereading my writing and helping to make it better. I’d like to thank my friend L.A. Sartor for so much great advise on the selfpublishing world, and for helping me to take my photography and make it into

amazing book covers. I thank everyone in the Front Range Christian Fiction Writers group for all of your friendship, advice and encouragement. It is such an inspiration to be surrounded by such talented authors. Thanks Malia Martin for being willing to read critique all of my books, and to everyone else who read all the different versions of this book and gave me feedback. Thanks to my new editor, Susan Spiker, for polishing my work. And thanks to my wonderful daughters for all of your support and encouragement along the way. You both inspire me each and every day.

FROM THE AUTHOR

Dear Readers, I hope you enjoyed reading this story. I was born and raised in Indiana and Ohio. I attended Bowling Green State University and law school at

the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, Nebraska. In addition to writing romance, I practice family law in Fort Collins, Colorado. I have three grown children, a son and two daughters, and three granddaughters. Colorado Cabin in the Pines is the third book in my series of novels centered in the small town of Peakview, Colorado. The fourth book in the series, Colorado Wrangler, will be released in summer 2016. I have published several short stories in Chicken Soup for the Soul books. My latest story can be found in Chicken Soup for the Soul, The Joy of Less. When not practicing law or writing,

I enjoy gardening, long walks with my Shetland Sheepdog, Laddie, and spending time with my children and grandchildren. I enjoy all kinds of sporting events. I am an avid football fan and love to cheer on the Broncos, the CSU Rams, and the Huskers. My passion is working with high school youth - as a youth group leader at my church, a coach of a high school Mock Trial Team, and volunteering with high school Cross Country and Track programs. I’d love to hear from you! Jill You can reach me at: Email : [email protected] Website and blog

at:

www.jillhaymaker.com Twitter @jillLHaymaker or on Instagram at: JillHaymaker Like my facebook page: Jill Haymaker, Author If you’d like to receive my monthly newsletter, please click the link on my webpage.

Table of Contents CHAPTER ONE CHAPTER TWO CHAPTER THREE CHAPTER FOUR CHAPTER FIVE CHAPTER SIX CHAPTER SEVEN CHAPTER EIGHT CHAPTER NINE CHAPTER TEN CHAPTER ELEVEN CHAPTER TWELVE CHAPTER THIRTEEN CHAPTER FOURTEEN CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Acknowledgements: FROM THE AUTHOR