Chapter 24
Shadow Valley, Texas - June 1873
Samantha and Bethany had found their place on the ranch, tucked away in one of the cozy cottages reserved for families. The main bunkhouse housed most of the workers, but Buck, the ranch foreman, provided cottages for his supervisors with families. The arrangement suited everyone.
Samantha, regaining her strength, could now walk with ease. Bethany, discovering a passion for cooking, insisted on contributing by handling dinners for the ranch staff every night. The ranch hands savored not only the company of the ladies but also Bethany's newfound culinary skills.
Desiree, on the other hand, had vanished from their lives, leaving only a single spiteful letter behind. Buck, fearing its negativity would only hurt her daughters, intercepted it and burned it. When he announced his upcoming engagement, Samantha and Bethany, eager to help and excited for him, insisted on meeting his fiancée. Buck, filled with hope, had explained the entire situation to Honor in detail, praying for her acceptance.
A month before the wedding, Honor arrived at the ranch, moving into the cottage with Samantha and Bethany. To Buck's relief, any concerns about the women getting along vanished within a few days. They seemed to be bonding and enjoying each other's company. However, a flicker of surprise still lingered in Honor's eyes ever since Buck's revelation about being the ranch owner, not just an employee.
Unfortunately, stolen moments with Honor were scarce since her arrival. Most of her time was spent with Samantha and Bethany, wedding planning in full swing, or with Buck tending to ranch duties. He couldn't wait until their wedding so he could spend some time with her alone.
Meanwhile, Buck had offered Justice a job at the ranch, contingent on selling their farm. He genuinely believed this move would bring Honor joy, reuniting her with her beloved brother and sister. He and Justice conspired to keep it a secret, planning to surprise Honor at the wedding.
Taking a deep breath, Buck straightened his crisp white shirt and donned his black jacket. A glance in the mirror confirmed he was ready. He smiled as Teaspoon's voice cut through the quiet, "You ready, son?"
"As I'll ever be," Buck replied with confidence.