Saving You
Chapter Nine "Thankful"
Disclaimer: I own nothing but my made up characters!
Thursday, November 23rd
"Good morning!" I greeted Dad and Gabe cheerfully. Aunt Cindy and Ross sat at the table drinking coffee and sharing the newspaper. I was fixing egg sandwiches before Ross, Gabe, and I went to feed. The turkey was in the oven and I had all non-refrigerated ingredients all over the counters in the kitchen. After we worked with the guys, I'd come in immediately to get everything started for our Thanksgiving dinner.
"Morning Char." Dad kissed my cheek. "Smells good. You making your old man one?"
"Of course Dad." I handed Ross a plate with his bread and egg before cracking another one into the pan. After finishing up, I washed the pan quickly.
Dad looked so amused; I asked him what was so funny. "You." He answered with a laugh. "You've always been somewhat responsible but here you are a ranch owner, working, managing a ranch almost by yourself, and being a homemaker at the same time. I'm impressed."
I laughed with him. "I guess some people, like me, really step up when they're met with challenges." I shrugged. "I love the ranch and am doing what I have to do to keep it."
Ross, Gabe, and I left the house to feed and I shivered at the cold wind. "So when are y'all going to tell your Dad and my mom that you're dating?" Gabe asked as we mixed the feed for the horses. Ross and I met each other's glances but neither spoke. Gabe smirked at the both of us. "You can't hide it forever. I'm surprised he hasn't noticed with the way you two look at each other." Gabe made kissy sounds towards me.
I blushed but rolled my eyes. "I'll tell him on a day that is not Thanksgiving thank you very much. No need to make a holiday dinner awkward."
Gabe chuckled as he went towards the saddle horse's pasture while Ross and I went to feed the program horses.
"He's right." Ross said sounding pained. It was probably a horrible scenario for him—he probably imagined conflict and of course, there'd be a lot of talking, something he hated.
"I know, just not today. We can keep our secret for a little while longer."
"Keeping secrets is never good." We both jumped at Bryan's voice and he smiled at us from where he stood near my office. "Do I know the secret you're keeping?"
I let out a relieved laugh. "It's just that we haven't told my father we're dating but we want to keep it under wraps for a little longer."
Bryan nodded and crossed his heart with his fingers. "Well your secret is safe with me. How are these guys doing?" Bryan reached over to pat Malachi. "You ready to do some work, boy?"
We fed the horses and talked about our plan for the guys today. We would continue to work on leading since it was going well but they still needed work. Within twenty minutes, the arena/barn area was louder with the sounds of the guy's voices and the officer's behind them.
"Happy Thanksgiving everyone!" I greeted them with a smile. They returned my sentiments with sleepy looking smiles and they went straight to their horse's stalls, haltering them. Bryan and I exchanged proud looks as we watched them get the tack boxes and start grooming their horses.
I noticed my father standing off to the side watching them and me. "Crazy how this ranch has changed so much." He said quietly to me. "It's been a cattle ranch as long as I can remember, then your Grandma made it the mustang sanctuary and now you're keeping her legacy going and making one of your own with this program."
"It's what this place is made of. Legacies." I smiled thinking of the land that surrounded us and all the memories that came with it. "Grandpa was a great cattleman, Grandma and Preston were known for their big hearts, and I'm known as the crazy city girl."
We both laughed at my words. "Well soon enough, they'll have to realize you're not so city anymore. You've come a long way already in the short time you've been here. I miss you at home, but I'm so proud of what you're doing here."
"Told you that I needed a pony." I made the joke to keep myself from getting emotional like I wanted to.
…...
Mystery POV
I watched her son and daughter walk across the ranch grounds with that stupid new dog of the granddaughter's. They were laughing at something and I just wanted to shoot them right then and there. That would certainly get everyone's attention wouldn't it?
Not yet. I had to remind myself. There was a time and place where I'd make them pay. But it angered me to watch them going about their business, celebrating the holidays.
Sometimes it was really hard to control myself.
…
Charlie POV
"You guys have done great! You're partnering well with your horses, they're responding so well. This is just so great." I wasn't sure my smile could get any bigger. "This is going so much better than I ever imagined."
"Charlie's right. You're all doing a great job." Bryan echoed my words. "With the pace we're at, I wouldn't be surprised if you're starting to ride by the end of December. Of course, that all depends on you and your horses. Haltering and leading is one of the easier tasks you'll face. The real moment of truth will be putting on those saddles and getting on them. Even domesticated horses can be a real rodeo."
"Well don't scare them." I scolded Bryan and he grinned. I turned back to them. "Bryan is right that saddling and riding is a big moment in the training but if you really gain your horse's trust, have patience, and take your time with them, I have no doubt you all will succeed."
"Okay, okay. Enough speeches. Let them eat!" Gabe rolled his eyes and I smacked his shoulder.
Turning back to the guys, I said "Put your horses into their stalls and make sure the door to their corrals are open. Don't forget to put out a few flakes of hay. It's getting really cold and the hay in their bellies helps them keep warm."
I watched them as they did as I instructed. Ross helped them out, bringing a few bales over to where the horses were stalled. It was nice to see him involved with the guys. He could be a good mentor to some of them.
….
"Take a seat, wherever you can find one." I gestured towards the long table set up in the large kitchen. Ross and Gabe had removed the regular kitchen table, replacing it with this long store-bought one. Aunt Cindy had helped me set it up with plates and plastic silverware. Red solo cups sat in their plastic bag on the counter where there were jugs of tea, lemonade, water, and multiple soda choices.
Chuckling to myself, I thought about where all my real knives were. Officer Juneau had warned me, no real knives or silverware. While the inmates in the program weren't viewed as violent and had no violent offenses, it wasn't a risk they wanted to take. So, plastic it was. Plus, less clean up.
I hugged Dallas and Pepper as they joined us and made introductions. We all sat down and after Dad cut the turkey, we all started filling our plates. Dad met my eyes and cleared his throat, causing everyone to turn towards him.
"This is a very different Thanksgiving than we're used to, but I'd like to follow one tradition. Every year, Charlie, my sister Cindy, Gabe, and I say what we're thankful for on Thanksgiving. I'd like everyone to say what they're thankful for. I'll start."
"I am thankful for…my daughter, who knows what she wants out of life and goes after it with determination. I love that she's following her dreams and I get to see it." I smiled a bit emotionally at my father and then he looked towards Michael, the inmate next to him.
As we went around, some things that they were thankful for were seemingly "silly" like "good turkey" "Soda" and "soft chairs" but there were serious ones too.
"Thankful for this program and the opportunity to work with these horses." John was completely serious. "It's making my days good days."
I smiled at that one. Henry was next. "I'm thankful that I got to see my son the other day."
"You have a son?" I asked, his words tugging at my heart. Henry smiled big, the first time since we met.
"Yeah, he's nine months old. Looks just like me."
"Poor kid." Jamie ribbed Henry good-naturedly and Henry shook his head.
"You're next, Ross." Jamie looked over to him expectantly. I managed to see Pepper's grin in Ross's direction and Ross met my eyes. I saw what he was thankful for in his eyes, but I knew he didn't want to say it.
"I'm thankful for…good people in my life. And Tank, my horse." Ross added softly, never looking away from me while he talked. For a moment, I just wanted to jump up and kiss him. But that would give away our secret.
"Charlie?" Dad looked at me and he was waiting to hear what I was thankful for.
Taking a deep breath, I started. "I'm thankful for this ranch that my grandma left me and the work I can do with the mustangs. I'm thankful for the opportunity to work with some great people." I smiled at the guys and officers. "I'm thankful that we get to have this Thanksgiving together and for my family. I'm also thankful for the new people that have become like family to me in the past few months." I glanced at Ross, Dallas, and Pepper as I spoke. "People who have accepted me and helped me out every chance they could."
We all lifted our cups and took drinks together. Looking at Ross as he talked to John, I knew that I wanted to tell my dad and aunt about us. Because no matter the age gap between us, it didn't make any difference because of the wonderful man Ross was. Gentle, caring, and supportive. Behind me, every step of the way.
After finishing up the main course, Aunt Cindy and I brought out dessert. Pumpkin pie, of course, but some chocolate pie, mini pumpkin spice cookies, a family tradition.
"Oh God, I haven't had pumpkin pie in over two years." John groaned as he took his first bite. I smiled at his enthusiasm.
"It really is the best thing about Thanksgiving." I said to him. "Besides all the leftovers."
"Cold turkey is the best." Michael sighed. "A cold turkey sandwich."
I could see Peter talking with Ross and I felt surprised, but happy that Ross was talking. Watching the gestures Ross and Peter were making, I could tell they were talking about horses.
Aunt Cindy leaned over. "So, Charlie, tell me about Bryan. He seems pretty cute."
I blushed hotly and noticed Ross was hiding his smile. "Bryan's a friend, Aunt Cindy. He's really great and has been a great partner in starting the program, but that's it."
Aunt Cindy sighed. "No sparks at all?"
"Ah, no. Just friends." I repeated, wanting off this subject. Peter elbowed Ross with a grin.
"Better watch out, man, your girl's family is trying to set her up with someone else." I froze at Peter's words and felt my father's eyes on me. Silence filled the room. Peter frowned, confused at the sudden silence. "You two are still together, right?"
"Yes." I answered Peter with an attempt at a smile. "Yes, we are."
Conversation resumed, but I could tell there was going to be a talk after the guys left. Before they returned to the jail, we took carrots out to their horses and they said goodbye. It took my mind off everything for a few minutes and filled me with happiness to see how they and their horses had already started bonding.
I watched the bus leave, waited until it was out of sight. I felt warmth next to me and looked over at Gabe. "How bad do you think this will be?"
Gabe shrugged. "You're twenty-three. Not much anyone can do, plus you're an adult. He's certainly going to want to know why you didn't tell him though."
I saw Ross leaning against the porch, waiting. I took a deep breath. "Okay, guess I gotta face the fire."
Ross grabbed my hand as I got to the porch. "We face this together." He said softly and I squeezed his hand.
"Always."
Dad and Aunt Cindy were sitting in the living room, drinks in their hands. Dad looked up as we entered the room, holding hands.
"Dad, Aunt Cindy, I want to...properly introduce you to my boyfriend, Ross."
Dad stood up and offered his hand to Ross. Ross shook his hand. "Why don't you both sit down?"
So we did, side by side, keeping our hands intertwined. Dad looked at Aunt Cindy, who gave him a look and then he sighed. "Charlie, why didn't you tell me about you and Ross? We talk almost every day."
I shrugged and looked anywhere but him. "I don't know, Dad…I didn't know how you'd feel about the age difference."
Dad exhaled loudly. "Well Charlie, I can't say I feel great about it. It's an eight year difference."
I squeezed Ross' hand as he looked uncomfortable. "I know that, Dad. We both do…but it's not that big of a difference and we actually have a lot in common. That's why Ross and I work."
Aunt Cindy smiled. "Now that I know about you two, I can think back and see it since we've been here. The way he is around you, the way he watches you. I mean just the way you two work together with the horses and the way you talk about him."
I smiled over at Ross who gave me a half smile, still a bit uncomfortable then I took a deep breath and faced them both. "Dad, Aunt Cindy, I know I should have told you both sooner and I'm sorry I didn't. But, I really care for Ross and he cares for me and trust me, I couldn't find anyone better than him."
Ross lifted my hand and kissed it before facing my father. "Mr. Allen, I…well I know this has to be weird for you. I promise you my only intention is to support her, care for her, and be there for her when she needs me. Like Charlie said, we have so much in common and I have so admiration and respect for her. I promise, I don't intend to hurt her."
Tears stung my eyes at Ross' words and I thought about how he was brave enough to speak to my father, even though this was such an uncomfortable situation for him, and stand by me with this…truly awkward conversation.
Dad sighed. "Well I know Charlie is an adult and can make her own choices…and I trust her judgement. So if she's happy, I'm happy."
Later that night, Ross and I were checking on the horses one last time. We held hands as we put the older three horses in the barn, bedded down with some hay and their blankets on.
"Yes, my Calico girl, you are so beautiful." I murmured to the pretty pinto mare. I gave her a kiss on her velvety nose and moved onto to make sure Ginger was settled in too.
Watching as the horses settled in for the night, I looked at Ross and smiled. "Well, today went pretty good."
Ross nodded. "Coulda been a lot worse."
"I talked to Bryan earlier. He's going to watch the ranch while we're off in Wyoming at your cousin's wedding. He'll stay here with Ranger and take care of the horses."
Ross smiled. "So you'll come then?"
I nodded. "I'll come."
….
Friday, December 1st Charlie POV
"Ranger's pretty good about hanging out with himself if you decide to go anywhere. His toys are in a basket underneath the coffee table." I pointed it out to Bryan and tried to think of anything else to tell him. "Calico has been acting a little jittery lately, so just be careful around her. I don't know what's gotten into her."
I rubbed my forehead as Ross grabbed my duffel bag. "You, of course, have my cell number and the number to our hotel if you need anything. Jeff will be the deputy on duty tonight and I've already let him know that we'll be gone this weekend. Oh! And I stocked the fridge with the drinks you like and food. Feel free to help yourself to whatever you want."
Ross chuckled and Bryan grinned at me as they both sensed the anxiety in my words. "Charlie, it's all gonna be okay. You're only gone for the weekend and believe it or not, I've handled a ranch by myself before." Bryan said, giving my arm a pat.
I rolled my eyes at myself. "I know, I know, I'm an anxious mess. I trust you with the ranch and Ranger. Okay, we're gonna leave now. Thank you so much again for doing this. You're the best!" I gave him a quick hug before crouching down to give Ranger a hug. "I'll be home Sunday night buddy."
Ross said goodbye to Bryan and then pulled me out the door. I got into the passenger side of my truck as Ross tossed our bags into the back of the truck.
He gave my hand a squeeze as he started the truck. "It's all going to run smooth this weekend."
I nodded. I knew Bryan would be fine on the ranch—most of my stress and anxiety about leaving the ranch was more about if something happened. There hadn't been any incidents lately. Everything would be fine, I told myself.
We got onto our flight with no issues and we were headed to Wyoming.
"Snow!" I said excitedly as we exited the airport. Ross chuckled at my excitement and nodded towards a cab.
"I guess we should get over to our hotel before it gets too bad."
We arrived at our hotel ten minutes later. "This looks nice!" I said as we walked into our room. Ross's cousin had cleared out a block of hotel rooms for her wedding so Ross had gotten the information from his mom and I had booked the room.
"A King, huh?" Ross said glancing at the bed as he sat his bag down.
"Yep. I found a deal where it was the same price as a two doubles room, so I grabbed it, thinking of all the space." I laid back on the big bed and sighed in happiness.
Ross laid down beside me and kissed my cheek, looking like he was blushing. "You okay?" I asked him, turning to face him.
"I, ah, told my parents and brother that we'd meet them for dinner after we got settled in." He seemed unsure as to how I would take the news.
I smiled. "Okay, let me change and then we can go meet them."
"Sorry I didn't ask. Mom was just so excited." Ross mumbled, looking sheepish.
I shook my head. "Don't be sorry. You met my family and now it's my turn."
I changed into a pair of black fleece lined leggings—super comfortable—and a long burgundy sweater. Glancing at the shoes I brought, I decided on my gray Bearpaw boots I had gotten last Christmas. I ran a brush through my hair—back to my natural blonde state—so it fell onto my shoulders.
Feeling a bit self-conscious, I dabbed on some lip gloss. I turned to show Ross what I was wearing. "What do you think? Do I look okay?"
Ross just smiled. "You look beautiful."
Smiling back, I walked over to him. "You're so sweet." I reached up to kiss him. "Where are we meeting them at?"
Turns out, there was a steakhouse down the street so Ross and I walked down to the restaurant. His parents and brother weren't there yet but the hostess took us to the table his mom had reserved earlier.
"Is there anything I should know before they get here?" I asked, feeling a little anxious at the thought of meeting Ross's family.
Ross took my hand and gave it a squeeze. "Not really. Just relax."
"Ross!" We both turned and I saw a couple heading towards us. Ross stood up and I did the same. It must be his parents.
His mother was tall—probably five nine or five ten. It wasn't surprising as Ross was tall himself. She had dark brown hair and blue eyes. His dad was about Ross's height and had the same dark hair, brown eyes.
"Oh we're so glad to see you." Ross's mother gave him a tight hug before turning to me. "You must be Charlie! So nice to meet you, I'm Diane." I expected her to extend her hand but instead she pulled me into a hug. Surprised, I hugged her back.
"It's great to meet you, Diane." I said as we stepped back from each other.
"I'm Rick." Ross's dad shook my hand and he gestured for us to sit back down.
"How was your flight?" Diane asked glancing at me.
"It was good. When we got off the plane, it was snowing, so I think we got lucky." I answered and Ross took my hand again. I could see his mom's eyes light up at the action.
"Yeah, there's a small storm moving through. Just enough to grace us with some snow for the weekend but not too serious." Diane said with a nod then she glanced up. "There you are!"
I turned to see a guy a little older than Ross—besides the ages and different eyes, they could almost be twins—and a brunette woman walking towards us. "Charlie, this is my son Ray and his wife, Kara."
We all shook hands and then sat down on the other side of Ross. The waitress, seeing the table was now full, came to grab our order. At his mother's insistence, I ordered a glass of wine along with her and Kara. The men ordered beers.
The waitress left to grab the drinks and I turned to find all eyes on me. My face must have shown my embarrassment because Kara laughed. "Sorry, I know we're all staring, but we just really want to get to know you!"
I smiled. "Ask away."
"So Ross says you co-own a ranch in Nevada?" Kara asked, leaning towards me.
I nodded. "Yes, my grandmother left my cousin Gabe and I her ranch. It's actually been quite a few things during the time my family has owned it. Cattle ranch, mustang sanctuary, training program for inmates."
"Inmates?" Diane glanced over at me, almost in shock. I guess Ross hadn't told her that.
After thanking the waitress for my drink, I turned to Diane. "Yes, I recently started a program with a local jail where a group of inmates comes out to work with the mustangs at my ranch and help train them. It's provides the horses with training and the men with skills that become valuable in their search for employment upon release." I explained.
His brother, Ray, nodded. "I remember hearing about those types of programs. Wyoming has a few too, I believe."
I smiled. "It's a great program—for both the horses and the inmates. I started it after taking over the ranch. I recently started work with the BLM—Bureau of Land Management—though if the program works like we want it to, I'll be more of a contractor to the BLM, taking in mustangs and directing the program."
Rick looked to be a bit astonished. "Wow, that's pretty big for someone your age."
Ross gave my hand a squeeze and said "Charlie is very ambitious."
I flushed at the pride in his voice. "My parents raised me to believe that I could do anything I wanted to, as long as I was willing to work for it. The horses, the ranch, the program, I'm so willing to work for it."
"And your ranch is by the one that Ross works at?" His mom asked. I started to answer but the waitress came back to get our food order. We ordered and then I looked at his mom to answer.
"The ranches are probably a twenty to thirty minute ride on horseback. Very close."
As the time passed, I learned that Kara was a guidance counselor at the local high school and Ray was the Principal at the same school. It's how they met.
"That is adorable." I said after Kara told me. "So you both get to see each other all the time!"
"Sometimes too much." Kara said jokingly and we laughed as Ray rolled his eyes.
"I'm going to cut your funding." He mock-threatened her and I couldn't help but smile at their easy banter.
Diane had been a stay at home mom with Ross and Ray until they got to middle school. "Then I decided I wanted to pursue my dreams. I went back to school and got my nursing certification. I'm retiring next year so me and this one can do some traveling." She elbowed Rick and smiled.
"Should be interesting." Rick muttered as he took the last drink of his beer.
Ross spoke sometimes—about River Bend, Tank, Dallas and Pepper but mostly the rest of us kept up the conversation. I showed his mom and Kara pictures of Ranger, then the horses. They fell in love with them immediately. I saw pictures of Kara and Ray's two labs—and their newest member, a little gray kitten named Smokey.
"Our children." Ray said with a chuckle.
When it was time to leave, Diane hugged me again and Kara pulled me in as well.
"I'm so glad you came out with Ross. It's been so long since he's had someone special." Kara whispered into my ear and I pulled back with a smile.
"I'm glad I did too. It was great meeting all of you."
We waved goodbye as we started our walk back to the hotel and I noticed the snow had stopped. "It's so beautiful out." I said to Ross, moving closer to his warm body.
"Not as beautiful as you." He squeezed my hand and warmth spread through me at his words.
"You're so sweet." I whispered and he shook his head.
"Just tellin' the truth." He held open the hotel door for me and we walked into the warm lobby.
As we crossed the lobby to the elevators, someone called out Ross's name. I turned to see a taller woman with long black hair. From Ross's sharp intake of air, I realized this wasn't someone he wanted to see.
"What a crazy coincidence to run into you here!" The woman said loudly, throwing her arms around him, breaking us apart.
I stepped back in shock, wondering who exactly this woman was. Ross's face was red. I had a sneaking suspicion that it was possibly this was an ex.
Finally she noticed that he wasn't alone. "Hi, I'm Sarah. Ross and I used to date."
Suspicion confirmed, I held out my hand with a smile. "Hi Sarah, nice to meet you. I'm Charlie."
Ross's body language was clear: he was uncomfortable with the whole situation.
The woman—Sarah—turned back to Ross, her back to me. "You must be here for Kelly's wedding. I heard she was getting married. I'm back in town for work. How are you?"
Ross glanced down at the ground. "Fine."
Sarah tossed her hair back, nearly striking me with it. I stepped back again, irritation seeping in. "I feel like it's been forever since we've seen each other, you look so good! Ranch work certainly suits you." She touched his arm in an intimate fashion and suddenly, it was more than irritation rushing through me. "Why don't we head over to the hotel bar and catch up?"
Ross looked up and shook his head. "No thanks. I'm actually here with Charlie, my girlfriend." Ross moved past her to grab my hand. "G'night."
Ross pulled me along to the elevator and I glanced back to see Sarah's face. It was not a happy expression. Turning back around, I couldn't help the smirk that overtook my face.
Once we were back in the room, Ross sat down on the bed and ran his hands over his face. After sliding my boots off, I sat down beside him.
"You okay?" I asked, laying my head on his shoulder.
Ross exhaled and shook his head. "A bit shocked."
I wanted to say more, ask questions but I didn't. If Ross wanted to tell me, he would. I rubbed his arm. I wanted to let him know I was here for him.
Glancing at the clock, he gestured towards the bed. "Probably should head to bed soon. You wanna watch some TV first?"
I kissed his shoulder. "Sure, let me get changed."
Grabbing my pajamas, I went into the bathroom. It was no big deal, I told myself silently. Ross wasn't talkative anyways—so what if he didn't want to talk about that relationship or the woman that he so clearly was still affected by?
Coming out, I grabbed my phone off the nightstand. I texted Bryan to ask how things were.
He texted back almost immediately. Included was a picture of Ranger on the couch with him. Good, horses are bedded down for the night. Ranger is hanging with his new best bud (me). All is quiet on the home front. Don't worry about us, enjoying the many snacks you left.
I smiled at the picture and leaned over to show Ross. He smiled but it wasn't his normal smile.
I texted Bryan back. Aw, loooove the picture! So glad he is doing okay. Glad you are enjoying the snacks. Thanks again Bryan for doing this. I'll shoot you a text tomorrow morning.
Bryan shot back: Goodnight!
….
Ross POV
Sarah. The moment I had saw her face, it was like someone had socked me in the stomach. Then she had ran up to me and threw her arms around me, her perfume assaulting my senses.
Had it really been two years since we had seen each other last?
I thought about Charlie's face as Sarah forced us apart and as Sarah stood between us, her back to Charlie. I should have spoken up, pushed Sarah away sooner but I was in shock.
I still was, if I was being honest with myself. How much of coincidence was it that we both just happened to be in Battlecreek at the same time? In the same hotel?
Shaking my head, I glanced over at Charlie. She was on her phone, checking emails she said. Facing away from me. I grimaced. That wasn't good.
I reached over for her and pulled her back against my chest. Her body was tense and I buried my face in her shoulder.
Her body relaxed after a moment and she moved to put her phone on the charger.
When she turned to face me, gave me a kiss before cuddling into me like she normally did, I knew things were okay, at least for the moment.
….
Charlie POV Saturday, December 2nd
I stood at the hotel mirror, trying to apply some makeup. I had blow dried my hair and straightened it for the first time in months. I wore more makeup than usual. I wanted to look good at the wedding.
Not too good of course, as it was the day for the bride and groom, but I liked dressing up when I was with Ross.
Thinking of Ross, I thought about how he had brought me breakfast this morning. I had woken up to him coming back into the room with coffee and breakfast pastries.
"From a bakery down the street." He had said, giving me a kiss.
After we had spent some time laying around in bed eating, he asked if I wanted to use the hotel's indoor pool since we had plenty of time before the wedding. "It's heated. I know you like swimming."
So we had went down and swam. It was different seeing him shirtless and in shorts—not that I hadn't seen him shirtless before—but I did really enjoy the sight. Ranch work did suit him.
We had the pool to ourselves and we had spent most of it attached to each other, Ross moving us along in the heated pool.
We had lunch in the hotel bar/restaurant downstairs before coming back up to start getting ready.
The shower stopped running and Ross stepped out a moment later. "Forgot my clothes."
I tried hard not to stare as he walked out in a towel. I wasn't very successful as I could watch him easily in the mirror.
Stop looking. I told myself as my eyes trailed over his muscles shoulders and down his arms to his stomach.
His eyes met mine in the mirror and then he smiled as if he could read my mind.
Blushing, I looked down and stuffed all the makeup back into its bag. Ross's hand slid over the small of my back as he went back into the bathroom to get dressed. I stiffened at his touch but then looked in the mirror.
Get a grip. I ordered, telling myself to get into the dress I was wearing.
I slipped the dress over my head and smoothed it out over my body. It was a dark green sweater dress that came down to my knees. With its long sleeves and thick material, it would keep me warm.
I was wearing black tights underneath so the rest of my legs wouldn't freeze and small black heels. I hoped I wouldn't fall on my face in them.
Hearing the bathroom door open, I turned. Ross looked handsome in his dark blue jeans, long sleeve button up burgundy shirt, and his boots. He had let his hair grow in the last two months and it was slicked back. I saw him reach for his hat on the nightstand.
Smiling, I walked over to him. "Your hat really completes your outfit." I kissed him. "You look so handsome."
Ross slid his hands down my arms. "I like this dress on you."
"I think we coordinated pretty well without even talking." I said, referencing the Christmas type colors we both wore.
Ross chuckled. "Guess we did."
I slipped on my heels and grabbed my phone. "Ready to head over?"
"Let's go." Ross said, sticking the hotel key into his pocket.
…
The church parking lot was pretty packed. I saw a group milling by the entrance and I spotted Kara with Ray standing in the group.
I waited as Ross paid the cab driver then he took my hand, glancing over at me. "You ready for this?" He asked quietly as the group started to notice us.
"As I'll ever be."
Kara reached us first and gave us both hugs. "You both look great! Come and meet some more of the family Charlie!"
Kara introduced me to Ross's Aunt Betty and Uncle Randy. I met a few of his cousins—trying to remember all their names—and their kids.
As the group moved towards the church, Kara took my arm and leaned close to my ear. "I'll be here to remind you of everyone's names. I know it's a lot to remember."
I smiled gratefully at her and took in the beautiful church. It was smaller than most, made for a smaller crowd. I loved the stain glass windows and the aisles had poinsettias lined along them with Christmas colored bows on the pews. There were candles surrounding the front of the church, giving the church a comforting, glowing feel.
Kara waved Ross and I in next to her and Ray. Diane and Rick were on the other side of them.
Diane complemented my dress and we made small talk until music started. I watched as the flower girls made their way down, tossing petals onto the ground. Then came the bridesmaids in dark green dresses and finally, the bride.
When it was time for the vows, the bride and groom read their own vows off. Ross put his arm around me and I leaned into him. Even though I didn't know either of them, I could hear their love and devotion to each other as they spoke. Their sense of humor towards each other as well.
I felt tears prick my eyes as the groom read a quote to his bride, about how when you meet the one you want to spend the rest of your life with, you want the rest of your life to start then.
Thank God I had worn waterproof makeup or I knew I'd be a mess.
…..
Ross POV
I glanced down at Charlie as my cousin's new husband, Cliff, read a quote to her. I could see tears brimming in Charlie's eyes even as she smiled. I rubbed her arm and kissed the top of her head.
Weddings were something entirely different and stirred something else in people when they were at them. Even I could feel it in the air as Kelly and Cliff kissed.
At the end of the ceremony, Kara insisted we ride with her and Ray to the reception. Charlie seemed fine with the idea and I could see that her and Kara got along well, even with their age difference.
The reception was at a local club hall and we were seated at a table with my parents, Kara, and Ray.
People milled around and talked. Kara and my mother took Charlie off to introduce her to everyone. I gave her a smile as she glanced back at me.
"Charlie seems nice." Ray said pouring himself a glass of water from the pitcher on the table. "When I heard you were dating someone so young, I was feeling like I'd have to talk some sense into you."
I froze at his words. Ray smiled to reassure me. "No, everything's good. I really like her, Ross. She's not like most girls her age. Most like to go out and aren't looking to be committed. Charlie seems to care about the horses and the ranch."
I nodded. "She does. I call her an old soul. She's determined and knows what she wants."
"For what it's worth, I like her too. A lot more than…well the last one." My dad said, glancing over at me.
I must have made some face because they both stared at me. "What was that face?" Ray asked, pointing at me.
I started to shake my head but then sighed. "We kinda ran into Sarah last night in the hotel lobby."
"Oh boy." Ray said, trying not to laugh. "That must have been hell for you."
I shrugged. "We got through it."
"And what did Charlie think about it?" Dad questioned, sitting back in his chair.
"She handled it just fine, kept her cool, though Sarah certainly pushed it."
Dad chuckled. "What an awful coincidence."
I nodded, turning my head looking for Charlie. I wanted her by my side.
….
Charlie POV
So many people. So many introductions. I loved meeting Ross's family but boy was it a lot of people.
I was talking with one of his cousins—Meredith—who had the most adorable children. She had six kids ranging from two months to eight years old. I had to give her credit too—they were so well behaved.
Once she learned that I had a ranch, had horses, she seemed to light up.
"My husband Derek and I have been thinking about getting a few horses. I used to ride as a kid and I loved growing up around horses. I want that for my kids." She told me and I smiled, thinking of how I had loved all animals growing up.
"That sounds wonderful. Do you live in Wyoming?" I asked her and noticed one of the little girls scoot closer to me, staring at me with her blue eyes. I smiled down at her and she returned the smile with one of her own.
"No, we live in Utah. We traveled here for Kelly and Cliff's wedding." She answered, shifting the baby to her other hip. Her husband stepped closer and grabbed the baby for her. She smiled at him before turning back to me. "Could you answer some questions for me?"
So we ended up talking about horse care, acreage—I learned they had ten acres, pony or horse and barn or run-in sheds. I answered as much as I could for her and then catching Ross's eye, beckoned him over.
He came and they caught up—as much as you can with Ross's quietness. I told him about Meredith and Derek wanting to get horses and suggested that maybe he could help with some of their questions.
As the DJ came on the microphone, we started back to our own tables with me promising to get Meredith my number so she could call me.
"Thought you might need this." Ross handed me a drink and I tried not to gulp it all down at once. I was parched from talking.
The groom and bride were sharing their first dance. They danced to Perfect by Ed Sheeran.
"Oh I love this song." I whispered to Ross as we watched them move across the dance floor with each other, staring into the other's eyes as if it were only them.
Later, when Kara and I were in the restroom "freshening up" as she put it, she asked about our run-in with Ross's ex last night. "Ray mentioned it while you two were talking with Meredith."
I laughed humorlessly. "It was certainly interesting." I told her about Sarah's actions, the way she ignored me, and then suggested to Ross they catch up over drinks at the bar.
Kara gasped. "She did not!"
I nodded. "She did. She literally acted as if I wasn't there." Feelings of frustration resurfaced just from talking about it.
Kara rolled her eyes. "Sarah was a bit…self-absorbed. When her and Ross were together, it was all about her. And you know how Ross is…so quiet that he gets walked over sometimes. None of us were quite sure why they were together as they were complete opposites but it was something that kept them together over those two and a half years."
Wow, so she had been a serious ex. Feeling like I was asking a question I shouldn't but not being able to help it, I asked "Why'd they break up—do you know?"
Kara sighed. "I don't have the whole story but it sounded like to me that she wasn't happy that Ross hadn't proposed. She was always hinting at about marriage and how this friend or that friend had just gotten engaged. Ross didn't feel as if that was what he wanted, so they broke up and a week later she was with someone else."
My mouth dropped open. "She was going on about marriage and then a week after their breakup she got with someone else?"
Kara nodded, her lips pressed together in disapproval. "Yep. But it was the best decision Ross could have made. He's free of her and now he's found you." Kara smiled over at me then she glanced at the door. "We better get back out there before they send a search party for us."
I analyzed everything Kara had told me in the restroom. Why had Ross stayed with Sarah for that long? It seemed they were complete opposites and then when Sarah had mentioned marriage—he hadn't wanted it. Nothing about Ross said commitment issues.
We walked back into the reception and I smiled as I heard the song that was starting to play.
Ross stood up when I got back to the table and nodded towards the dance floor. "Want to?"
So I took his hand and we danced to the song that we had danced to on our first date. 'Cowboys and Angels' by Dustin Lynch. I was beginning to think it was our song.
Dancing with Ross to this song, his arm around my waist, I couldn't imagine a better night.
….
A/N: Hey readers! So sorry it's been awhile. Hope this 7,000+ word makes up for it! I'm currently re-reading the series (boy was it hard to find some of the books to buy again!) and it's so fun to be in Sam's world again (even though I'm older reading it) and to remember all the characters. I'm also making use of this three day weekend to try to kick out some updates on most of my stories, so keep checking in for more updates on your favorite stories!
Let me know your thoughts on this chapter in a review!
To my reviewers:
Jessica: Thank you AGAIN for your loyalty to me (though I always leave you hanging for a while between updates!) and your review! I also love the idea of her training Faith—though I'm wondering how easy it would be. We all know Brynna has Penny and trained/retrained her after she was blind, so it can be done. Gabe—I wish he was more in the stories! I really liked him. I have always been kind of in love with the programs that work with inmates and horses. Even more so after I worked at a non-profit law firm working with people to help clear their criminal records and worked with clients in jail and non-jail settings. People deserve a second chance. Girl, you still haven't gotten an account, four years later! (LOLOL ? ) You should! Hope you got to read the update so Savannah's Journey. Let me know your thoughts on both the new chapters! Thank you for staying with me through all this!
As always, thank you all for reading!
-Quinnandsethsgirl15
