It was a perfect night…

When Brad had parked on the mountain, he came around to open her door, then took her hand and led her to the lone stone bench.

When they were seated, Sarah tried to withdraw her hand. But Brad held on to it. After a few minutes, he brought it to his lips.

“What are you doing?” Sarah whispered.

“Kissing your hand.”

“Why?”

“Because I like to.” He kissed it again. “Because I think you’re very sweet and thoughtful. And because I believe you’re strong for your brother and sister and so I want to be strong for you.”

He kissed her palm this time, then up to her wrist.

If a gentle, harmless kiss like this could make her heart race and her mouth dry, Sarah wondered, what would a real kiss from Brad Logan do to her?

Judy Christenberry has been writing romances for fifteen years, because she loves happy endings as much as her readers do. A former French teacher, Judy now devotes herself to writing full-time. She hopes readers have as much fun reading her stories as she does writing them. She spends her spare time reading, watching her favourite sports teams, and keeping track of her two daughters. Judy’s a native Texan and lives in Dallas.

Judy Christenberry

has written over seventy books for Silhouette Books®, and she’s a favourite with readers. Now you can find Judy’s heartwarming books in Mills & Boon® Romance!

Step into a world where family counts, men are true to their word— and where romance always wins the day!

Look out for Judy’s next book in December

This is one Christmas cowboy you won’t want to miss!

INHERITED: INSTANT FAMILY

BY

JUDY CHRISTENBERRY

www.millsandboon.co.uk

MILLS & BOON

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CHAPTER ONE

BRAD LOGAN was late.

He should have left his friend’s wedding back in Pinedale hours ago, and now he was still twenty miles away from home. His brother would be angry if he woke up Abby. Though they had a couple months to go before being born, the twins in her belly were already not letting her sleep.

Because he was speeding by, Brad almost missed the flicker in the pasture to the left, a bit of land the Logans rented from the government. Braking to a stop, he backed up to see if it could be true. He thought everyone knew not to have a campfire on government land.

There it was, almost hidden behind a small hill. He had to snuff it out.

His headlights picked up tire tracks leading off the macadam. Following the tracks, he came upon a darkened old car and the offending campfire right beside it.

Only after parking his truck and walking up to the fire did he notice the young woman who sat beside it, obviously in deep thought.

“Ma’am?”

Startled, she jumped, losing her balance on the rock on which she sat. Getting up, she dusted off her rear, sputtering, “Wh-who are you?”

“The name’s Brad Logan. My family rents this land from the government. You’re not allowed to camp here. And you’re definitely not allowed to have a campfire.”

“We’re not doing any harm.”

“Lady, it’s been a dry year. We can’t take any risks of a forest fire. I’m sorry, but the fire has to go.” He kicked dirt onto the fire, but the woman stopped him.

“If you knew how long it took me to get that fire started, you wouldn’t so cavalierly destroy it!”

He shook off her hand. “Look, you don’t even have any business being out here. We’ve had bears down this low. What would you do if a bear attacked you? You need to go back to Pinedale and get a motel room.”

“No! No, I can’t!” The woman appeared distraught.

“Why not?”

“I don’t— Money is tight!”

“There’s a campground at Yellowstone. I doubt they’re crowded on an October night.”

“Uh, yes, thank you.”

Something in her face told him she wouldn’t be going to Yellowstone, despite her verbal acceptance. Wherever she went, he couldn’t leave her here.

“Do you have any water?”

“Yes.” She turned toward her darkened car.

“I need it to be sure the fire is completely out.”

Disbelief shone on her face when she spun on her heel. “You’re going to pour it on the fire? I don’t have much and the kids will need it in the morning.”

His eyes darted around the car. “You’ve got kids here?”

She gave a brief nod, backing away from him. “Look, we’ll go, but I need what water I have.”

“Where are the kids?”

“They’re sleeping.”

“Lady, you need to do a better job raising your kids!”

“And you need to mind your own business!”

Not knowing what else to do, Brad took out his cell phone and called the sheriff. After filling him in, he asked, “Shall I bring her in?”

He was watching the woman as he spoke and when he mentioned taking her in, her eyes opened wide and she immediately began gathering the few things she had out. “We’ll be on our way!”

Before she could reach her car, such as it was, Brad caught her arm. “The sheriff said for me to bring you in.”

“But we haven’t done anything!”

“Then you won’t mind talking to the sheriff, will you?”

“Yes, I do mind. I don’t want to leave the kids.”

“Of course not. We’ll take them with us…in my truck.”

“No! I can’t leave my car here!”

“If the sheriff says it’s okay, I’ll bring you back in the morning.”

He walked over to the old car and looked through the window to see two kids sleeping in the two seats. “Where were you going to sleep?” he asked the woman.

“That’s none of your business!”

He opened the car door, waking the children. “Hi, kids. Your mom has agreed to come to our ranch for the night. Is that okay with you?”

A small girl, maybe eight or nine, and a little boy who looked to be about five, the same age as his nephew Robbie, stared at him.

The children looked out for their mother, and he realized he’d never introduced himself. “Sorry, I forgot to tell you who I am. My name’s Brad. We’ll take my truck to the ranch. Okay?”

“Is that your truck?” the little boy asked, getting on his knees and looking out the window.

“Yeah. Do you like trucks?”

He nodded. “I can ride in yours?”

“Sure. Ask your mom.”

“But she’s not here.”

Brad turned to look at the young woman. “She’s not your mother?”

“No,” the little boy said sadly.

Just what the hell was happening here? Brad wondered. Not wanting to upset the boy, he said calmly, “Well, buddy, why don’t you come ride with me? She’ll follow us.”

“Will you come, Sarah?”

“Yes, Davy, I’ll follow you. I’m not leaving you behind.”

The little girl got out of the car and moved to Sarah’s side. “Sarah, I don’t think you should let Davy go with him. We don’t know him.”

She put her arm around the girl and smiled. “It’s all right, Anna. We’re going to follow right behind.”

Then the woman moved closer to Brad and whispered, “Don’t even think of trying to take Davy from me.”

“I won’t, as long as you follow me.”

She moved away from him and hugged the boy. Then she and the girl got in the old car and started the engine.

Brad helped the little boy into his truck and fastened the seat belt for him. “Davy, I’m glad you’re going to ride with me. I don’t like riding alone.”

“Me, neither.”

“Okay, we’ll be home in twenty minutes.”

But after five minutes, he noticed the woman—Sarah—wasn’t behind him. He made a U-turn and found her car dead on the side of the road. “Davy, I need to see if I can help her. Sit here.”

When he got to the car, Sarah had tears running down her cheeks.

“Are you okay?” he asked.

Quickly she wiped her tears away. “I’m fine.”

“Do you know what’s wrong with your car?”

“No.”

“Okay, why don’t you and Anna come get in my truck with Davy. We’ll see what we can do about your car tomorrow.”

“We—we need our suitcases.”

“Where are they?”

“In the trunk. I’ll get them.”

Despite her independence, Brad retrieved the two suitcases from the trunk and put them in his truck.

“Here, Anna, let me help you up,” Brad said to the little girl. Then he turned to the young woman, but Sarah had already climbed up into the backseat.

“Put your seat belts on,” he directed as he got behind the wheel. “We’ll be at the ranch in a few minutes.” He pulled out onto the highway.

None of his three passengers responded. The children looked like they’d gone to sleep, but he could see Sarah watching his reflection in the rearview. When his eyes met hers on the mirror, she diverted her gaze.

She looked to be in her early twenties, with light brown hair that framed her face and fell to her shoulders. Her eyes were big, though in the dark he couldn’t detect a color. Under ordinary circumstances, Brad suspected it would be a beautiful face, but right now worry and tension had painted dark circles under her eyes and tightened her mouth.

He wanted to ask Sarah who the children were to her, and why they were in her care, but he gave her her way and was silent for the rest of the ride.

When he got to the house, he turned to her with an arm across the seat and said, “My sister-in-law is seven months pregnant with twins. She has trouble getting back to sleep if she wakes up, so I’d appreciate it if you’re quiet.”

Sarah got out of the truck and helped Anna down. Then she opened Davy’s door and helped the little boy.

“What are we doing here?” the woman asked. “I thought you were taking me to talk to the sheriff.”

He’d taken her to the Logan ranch, his home. The sheriff, who happened to be his mother’s second husband, had agreed to meet him there.

“This is my family’s ranch. The sheriff’s meeting us here. That’s his car.”

At the mention of the sheriff, her face seemed to blanch. “Are you all right?”

Her eyes, when she looked at him, were dark brown. “We didn’t do anything wrong.”

For some reason he felt compelled to reassure her. Maybe it was the way she obviously cared for the children, or because he’d discovered a soft spot for damsels in distress. Either way, he motioned with his hand for her to follow him.

He opened the door to the kitchen and allowed Sarah and the children to enter. The sheriff was sitting at the big oak table. “Mike, this is Sarah, Anna and Davy.”

Mike stood. In his early fifties and with gray hair, he still cut a formidable figure. “Hello. I’m Mike Dunleavy, the County Sheriff. Have a seat. Would you like some coffee?” He nodded toward the counter, where he’d obviously put on a fresh pot as soon as Brad had called.

“No, thanks. But c-could the kids have some milk?” Sarah asked, as if asking a big favor.

Brad spoke up. “Of course. I’ll get it.”

After he had delivered the two glasses to the children, Mike began his questioning. He started with her name.

“Sarah Brownly.”

“Are you on vacation?” he asked Sarah.

She pressed her lips together. Then she said, “Sort of. I lost my job and—and we decided to move.”

“And those are your only bags? Your only belongings?”

She kept her gaze lowered. “Yes.”

“Are these your children?”

Again she hesitated. Only this time it seemed minutes had passed before she finally shook her head.

“Where are their parents?”

“Anna and Davy are my half siblings. Our mother died recently.”

Mike raised his brows. “I’m sorry,” he said in a gentler tone. “It must be hard for you. For all of you.”

Sitting across from her, Brad saw the tears form in her eyes. If she was lying, she was a damn good actress.

The little boy, who’d been quietly sitting, drinking his milk, slid from his chair and tugged on her sleeve. “I’m sleepy, Sarah.”

She took Davy into her lap. Anna scooted her chair close to Sarah and leaned against her, too.

Again Brad was struck by the tenderness that Sarah displayed toward the children. He couldn’t help but feel sorry for the kids. “Davy, my nephew is about your age. He has an extra bed in his room upstairs. Would you like to sleep in it?”

Davy looked up at Sarah for permission. When she nodded, he asked Brad, “Won’t he mind?”

“I doubt he’ll wake up before morning. Come on. I’ll show you.” Brad led the little boy to the bedroom.

At the open door, Davy hesitated. “I think I want to go back to Sarah.”

“Why don’t you just lie down for a little while? Sarah’s going to be fine.”

After a moment’s deliberation, the comfy bed won out. Davy climbed up into it and settled under the blanket. He glanced over at Robbie, still sound asleep in his own bed.

“Does he have a mommy?” Davy asked, pointing at the boy.

Brad nodded. “Uh-huh. My sister-in-law, Abby. She’s asleep in another room with her husband, Nick. He’s my older brother. He’s in charge of this ranch.”

The boy considered his reply. Then said, “My mommy’s in heaven. My daddy killed her. He’s in Denver.”

Though he spoke the words quietly, they struck Brad with the force of a warrior. He had to hold onto the bedpost to keep from reeling back. Scores of questions assailed him, but he knew now was not the time to voice them. If what he said was true, this little boy had been through enough. He deserved to sleep like an angel. Sarah could answer the questions.

When Brad came back to the kitchen, he heard Sarah pleading with Mike to let her and her half siblings go. She promised she wouldn’t camp out anymore.

Brad couldn’t wait. He cut her off and blurted, “Davy said his dad killed his mom.”

Sarah’s face drained of color and he thought she was going to faint. He stepped closer.

“Is that true, Sarah?” Mike asked, watching her carefully.

This time she couldn’t hold back the tears. Anna put her arms around Sarah, both of them hanging on to each other. “Yes,” Sarah whispered.

“Did you report the murder?” the sheriff asked.

“Yes.” After a moment, she continued, “The kids and I had gone to the grocery store. When I started bringing the groceries into the kitchen, I saw my stepfather choking my mother. I grabbed a chair and broke it over his head. I pulled him off Mom, but—but I couldn’t help her.” She choked back a sob, no doubt seeing the scene once again in her mind’s eye. “He was out…my stepfather. I got the kids back in the car and I threw some things into our suitcases and left. Then I called the police and told them that my stepfather had choked my mother to death.”

“Why did you run?”

“Because my stepfather is—he lies. I couldn’t leave without the kids. He’d kill any of us if he thought we knew what he’d done. He wasn’t a good father. I paid most of the bills and bought the groceries. He drank what little he earned. He had even started my mother drinking.” At that confession, Sarah cried again. “I tried to get her to not drink with him. He was a fighter when he drank and she…She was a different person.”

“I still don’t understand why you ran off. You’d already called the police.”

“Sheriff, have you come across people who do bad things but aren’t punished for them? Because no one can prove it? Or because he tells a sad story and is let off easy? I couldn’t risk hanging around to see what happened. He would claim he loved his children and the cops would believe him.”

Mike seemed to ponder that, then he nodded, as if he’d understood her as well as agreed with her. “Look, why don’t you and the children sleep here tonight? The Logans won’t mind, right, Brad?” He looked up at Brad, who nodded his agreement. “I need the names of your mother and stepfather.”

“Alice and Ellis Ashton.”

“Let me contact the police in—You never said where you lived.”

“I don’t think I should tell you.” She was trembling, but her chin was strong, as if determined to keep their former whereabouts a secret.

“I believe Davy said it was Denver,” Brad said softly.

Sarah jumped to her feet. “You had no right to question Davy!” she protested. “He’s just a little boy!”

“I wasn’t questioning him. He volunteered the information.”

Mike put up his hands to still the argument. “Sarah, we’re not trying to harm you or your siblings. We’re just trying to find out what happened. Believe it or not, we want to protect you.” Once Sarah settled down a bit, he continued. “Do you have papers giving you the right to remove your brother and sister from their home?”

“If he gets the kids, he won’t take care of them! He might—might even hurt them!”

At that, Anna began crying, and Brad questioned their judgment in speaking so candidly in front of the young girl.

Sarah picked her up and held her tightly. “Please, Sheriff! You can understand! I couldn’t help my mother anymore, but—but don’t let him take the kids!”

“Sarah, are you over twenty-one?” Mike asked.

“Yes, I’m twenty-four.” She wiped her cheeks, but the tears kept coming.

“If you have to go back to testify against your stepfather, I’ll try to help you get custody of the children. I can write a letter to the judge in support of that action. We’ll keep the kids here if you go testify. If they don’t give you custody, I’ll—I’ll look away for a day or two so you can disappear. Okay?”

“You promise?” she asked.

“You have my word.”

“Thank you, Sheriff. They’re good kids.”

“I can tell that.” He smiled at Anna. “Everything’s going to be fine,” he crooned to the little girl. “No need to cry.”

Brad thanked Mike. “Is that all you need for tonight? I think Anna is pretty tired, too.”

“Yeah, that’s all for tonight. I’ll check with the Denver PD to see if they’ve got an Ellis Ashton in custody.”

“Then, Sarah, if you’re ready, we’ve got an empty bedroom for you two to share tonight. Want me to carry Anna?”

“No, thank you. I’ll carry her.”

Brad picked up the suitcases and led the way down the dimly lit hall. He opened the farthest bedroom door and turned on the bedside light. “There are extra pillows and a quilt in the closet, in case you get cold during the night.” He told her where to find the bathroom and fresh hand towels. All the while Sarah just stood there, holding Anna. She looked frozen to the spot, almost shell-shocked. He couldn’t even imagine what she’d been through, how awful it must have been, how terrified she was. An urge to reach out to her and wrap her in his arms suddenly overtook him, hard and strong. He took a step toward her, but she backed up.

Looking at him, her brown eyes red-rimmed and bloodshot, she shook her head, but said in a small voice, “Thank you, Brad. Thank you for helping us.”

Brad rose the next morning and showered and shaved, then dressed. After that, he headed for the kitchen, where he knew he’d find his brother cooking breakfast.

“Morning,” he greeted Nick as he stepped into the doorway.

“Morning.” Then Nick continued before Brad could say anything. “You got back kind of late last night, didn’t you?”

“Yeah, but—”

Robbie raced into the kitchen, interrupting what Brad was going to say. Following him was Davy. “Daddy, look!”

Nick looked at his son and suddenly realized Robbie wasn’t alone. “What the—”

“That’s what I was going to tell you, Nick,” Brad hurriedly said.

“He belongs to you?” Nick asked. “Something you forgot to mention, brother?”

“No, he’s not mine, but I brought him here. I found him and his sisters camping out on the government land last night.”

“That’s not allowed,” Nick said.

“I know that, but— Anyway, I put out the fire and I brought them here to talk to Mike.”

Brad was glad he got those words out because he heard more steps coming down the hall.

Sarah and Anna came into the kitchen. He noticed how much they looked alike, the same coloring and facial features.

“Good morning,” Sarah said softly.

“Hello,” Nick said. “I’m Nick Logan.”

“I’m Sarah Brownly and this is Anna. And also Davy. If we’re intruding—”

“Not at all. Have a seat. I’ll have breakfast ready in a minute.” Then he looked at Brad. “Can you get some silverware and drinks for our guests?”

“Sure.” Brad got the silverware and poured three glasses of milk. After he brought those to the table, he filled a mug of coffee for Sarah and put it on the table. “Have a seat,” he added.

Brad hoped Nick would not ask questions. He could explain the events while they rode after breakfast.

Nick didn’t say anything until he’d dished up breakfast for everyone. But when he sat down to eat, he asked, “Where are you from?”

Sarah didn’t want to tell him, but after a look at Brad, she replied, “Denver.”

“It’s an unusual month for a vacation with kids. Won’t they be missing school?”

Sarah looked at Brad, a plea in her gaze.

“I’ll explain after breakfast,” Brad said. “Eat up, Sarah. Nick wants to get the kitchen clean before we go.”

“I’ll be glad to clean the dishes. I don’t know what— I mean, I’ll be waiting to hear from the sheriff.”

Nick looked at Brad, as if wondering if he could trust Sarah.

Brad said, “That’d be good, Sarah, if you don’t mind. The kids can watch cartoons while you work.”

“Can I stay home and watch cartoons, too?” Robbie asked eagerly.

“No, son. You know you have to go to school. Mommy would be upset if you stayed home for no reason.”

“Aw, Daddy. Why—”

“Eat up,” Nick ordered.

They had all finished in a couple of minutes. Nick took Robbie out to wait for his school bus, planning to meet Brad in the barn afterward.

As they left, Brad turned to Sarah. “My sister-in-law is sleeping in. Can you cook breakfast for her?”

“All right. Thank you for reassuring Nick without—without upsetting the kids.”

“No problem,” Brad said as he walked out of the house.

In the barn he saddled both horses and waited for his brother.

Minutes later he arrived, and he was barely in the saddle when he blurted, “Okay, what’s the story?”

Nick might not have been prepared for the violent story, but Brad held nothing back. He told his brother as much as he knew.

In the end, Nick could only shake his head. “What a story.”

“I know. And I only saw them because I caught a flicker of a fire. I stopped and went back. I put out the fire and told her she had to take the kids and leave. It was pretty obvious she thought she could just tell me she was leaving. I called Mike and he said to bring them in.”

“She’s lucky you found them,” Nick said. “Been a shame if they’d made it away from the father and been attacked by the bears out there.”

“That’s what I told her.”

But as Brad rode out beside his brother, he couldn’t help wondering if he’d really brought Sarah to safety.

CHAPTER TWO

SARAH wondered if this ranch was as safe a place as the Logans and the sheriff had told her. She hated to think she’d led her brother and sister to more danger. After checking on them in the family room, where they were watching television, she returned to her kitchen chores.

She would’ve done a lot more work in return for the night’s sleep at a good bed and breakfast. Lord knows she couldn’t have gone without rest again. After running, she’d driven half the night and then parked in a rest stop to close her eyes for a few minutes, sitting up on watch for most of the first night. Then there was last night’s fiasco in the national forest.

She hadn’t thought about bears.

Thanks to Brad Logan, she and the children had been taken care of. A safe house, warm beds and good food. What more could she ask for? Sighing, she realized she owed Brad a lot. And to think she’d been angry at him when he barged in on her makeshift campsite last night. The sternness she’d seen in his eyes had softened to concern, then sympathy. She didn’t want his sympathy, just his compassion. And the handsome cowboy had offered it.

After sweeping the kitchen floor, she heard footsteps coming down the hall. Her unknowing hostess, perhaps?

The brown-haired pregnant woman came through the door and stopped in her tracks when she saw Sarah. “Hello?”

“I’m Sarah. Your brother-in-law let us stay last night. May I fix you some breakfast?”

“No, I— Well, okay, if you don’t mind.”

“Of course not. There’s still some hot coffee if you—”

“No, the doctor says I can’t have coffee. I’ll take a cup of tea, though, with milk and sugar in it.”

Sarah not only fixed her the tea, but made toast, bacon and scrambled eggs. After she served the woman, she said, “I’m sorry if I startled you before—”

Abby held up a hand. “It’s fine. I just wasn’t expecting anyone to be here.” She picked up her fork. “So, did you meet my husband this morning?”

“Yes, he cooked breakfast for all of us. I volunteered to clean the kitchen to repay him.”

“That was nice of you. Do you want some coffee? It won’t bother me, I promise.”

“I’d love another cup. I was saving it for you.” Sarah got up and poured the last cup of coffee and sat back down again.

“Are you a friend of Brad’s?” Abby asked.

“No. We’re—we’re on the run from my stepfather. He—he killed my mother two nights ago. I was afraid he’d kill all three of us if we didn’t get out of there.”

Apparently Abby wasn’t expecting such a gruesome story. She nearly dropped her teacup and her eyes flew to Sarah’s. “Oh, no! I’m so sorry.”

“Thank you,” Sarah said, blinking rapidly to hide the tears that sprang to her eyes.

“You said we. Who are you with?”

“My two half siblings. They’re watching TV in your family room.”

“How old are they?”

“Five and nine.”

“You certainly have your hands full, don’t you?” Abby reached across the table and patted her arm, and the gesture was Sarah’s undoing.

She broke down, releasing all the fear, anxiety and tension of the last few days in a flood of tears.

“These are good cookies.”

Little Davy sat at the kitchen table munching on the homemade sweets that Kate, Abby’s mother-in-law, had sent over. Even Anna seemed to like them, though she sat quietly.

After her breakdown, Sarah had brought the children in to meet their gracious hostess. Abby took to the children immediately.

“I’ll tell her you like them,” Abby said. “She’s a wonderful grandmother to Robbie.”

Sarah smiled. “I’m sure she is. Is he her only grandson until your babies are born?”

“Yes. Nick’s the only married child of her brood.” After a minute, Abby looked around the kitchen. “I probably need to think of something for lunch.”

“I think you should just tell me what you want done.”

“I can’t ask you to do that!”

“Yes, you can. You know your husband doesn’t want you risking your babies.”

“Well, yes, but— Do you mind?”

“Of course not. Just tell me what you have in mind. I’ll fix it.”

As Sarah got up, the phone rang. She looked at Abby with a question in her eyes.

“Yes, please,” Abby said with a smile.

Sarah answered the phone. “Logan Ranch.”

“Is this Sarah?”

“Yes.”

“This is Kate Dunleavy, Mike’s wife.”

“And Robbie’s grandmother?”

“Exactly. You’ve learned all of us already, haven’t you?”

Sarah said, “Do you want to talk toAbby?”

“Yes, please.”

The telephone had a long cord and she carried the receiver to Abby.

While Abby was talking, Sarah took a quick inventory of what food they had on hand. The stocked cupboard and refrigerator were astounding for Sarah. She wasn’t used to such abundance.

Abby said goodbye and Sarah was beside her to take the phone back to the wall.

“Kate’s bringing over a casserole for lunch. We just need to cut up a salad.”

“Okay.” Sarah quickly got to work. Setting the table for six, she put the salad out and heated up some black-eyed peas. When Kate arrived, everything was ready.

“You did all this?” Kate asked. “Abby, you know you shouldn’t. I was going to do the work.”

“I didn’t, Kate. Sarah did everything. Isn’t she great?”

“She certainly is.” She walked over to the newcomer and put out a hand in greeting. “Hello, Sarah. I’m glad to meet you.”

The woman, who looked to be in her fifties, with graying light-brown hair, was so welcoming that Sarah returned her handshake. “I’ll—I’ll go call the kids.”

Kate watched the young woman leave the room. “Mike says she’s a good person.”

“I think so, and she’s had a horrible time of it. Does Mike think he can help her?”

“Yes, he thinks so. He’ll tell her his news after we all eat. He doesn’t want to talk in front of the children.”

“Oh, of course—”

Sarah entered the kitchen, followed by Anna and Davy. Anna pressed closer to Sarah. Davy didn’t seem too concerned.

“Kids, this is Kate, the cookie lady,” Abby said.

“I like your cookies!” Davy said with a big smile, which Kate returned.

“I’m glad. It’s nice to meet you, Davy. You, too, Anna.”

“Come on, kids, sit down at the table.”

“I like Robbie,” Davy said, grinning.

Kate seemed thrilled. “Perfect,” she said. “Maybe Mike’s idea will work out.”

Sarah’s head snapped up. “What idea?”

Mike entered at that moment. “Hi. How’s everyone doing?”

Sarah nodded to Mike, smiling a little. “We’re fine.”

“Good. I’m starved. Are you ready to eat?”

“You’re always hungry,” Kate teased her husband. But she held out a seat next to hers at the table.

Sarah could barely eat. She was too concerned about whatever idea the sheriff had come up with. She was grateful when the meal ended and she took her siblings back to the family room.

As soon as she entered the room, she turned to Mike. “Did they arrest him?”

Mike sighed. “Yeah, but you were right. Ashton told them he didn’t know who killed his wife. He said he was knocked out and couldn’t help his beloved wife.”

“I told you he lied.”

“And he wants to know what happened to his children.”

Sarah’s hand flew to her chest. “No! I told you. They can’t go back to him.”

Mike tried to calm her down. “I just told you what he said. However, the police did a thorough job. They’re holding him in jail until he can make bail for $250,000. They’re hoping he won’t.”

“Good.”

“They also want to interview you.”

“No!” She felt as if she were on a seesaw, up one minute, down the next with the type of news Mike delivered.

“Sarah, you remember what I said? I talked to the police about you being appointed guardian of Anna and Davy. They agreed to pursue that for you, if you’ll come talk to them.”

She blinked her eyes, staring at her hands, clenched tightly in front of her. “I—I can’t!”

“I think Brad would go with you. I’m going to talk to him in a few minutes.”

“Why would he do that?”

“Because you need someone with you, Sarah. It won’t be an easy thing.”

“I know—and what about the kids?”

“Well, I thought they might like to go to school while they’re here. I’ll set it up. It will be hardest on Anna. Davy will have Robbie to go to school with.”

“But I can’t leave them! It would be too hard for them.”

“It will be even harder if you don’t get custody.”

Abby took her hand. “We’ll take care of them, Sarah.”

“But you’re supposed to rest,” Sarah protested.

“If they’re at school all day, I can rest.”

The sheriff looked at Sarah. “You have to answer this question. Is it worth going to testify against Ellis Ashton? You’ll get custody of the kids and keep them safe.”

When he put it that way, Sarah knew there was really no choice. She drew in a deep breath and said, “I’ll go. But I don’t need to bother Brad. I can manage on my own.”

The sheriff shook his head. “He’s going with you, Sarah. It’s part of the deal. Nick and Abby will take care of the kids and Brad will take care of you.”

“I don’t want him to take care of me! I can manage on my own.”

“Why don’t you want him to go?”

“The only man in my family killed my mother. Why would I want anything to do with any man?”

Mike drew a deep breath. “He’s just escorting you, keeping you safe. So you can come back to your siblings.”

“I—I don’t know what—”

“I’m thinking you should leave Monday morning after the kids go to school.”

“Their first day? No, that’s impossible! Anna can’t— She’s very shy!”

“It’s all right,” Kate said. “I’ll take her to school that morning and make sure she’s happy. Abby will be here to help.”

Sarah looked around the room at all the encouraging faces. “All right. I can tell her you’ll go with her?”

“Of course.”

Mike stood and kissed Kate goodbye and thanked Sarah for her cooperation. Then he left.

“Can you tell us what the children wear to school? Is there somewhere we can buy something for her to wear?”

“Yes. I can take you and Anna, and Davy, too, this afternoon, if you want.”

“Thank you, Kate. I think it will help Anna feel good about herself.” She just wished she knew how to pay for the clothes.

Nick and Brad came into the house for lunch a little later, only to find it empty.

“Where’s Abby?” Nick mused out loud.

“I don’t know. I guess we’re on our own today.”

“If she’s gotten involved with those people you drug in, I’ll—”

“Hi, boys,” Mike called as he stepped into the kitchen. “Are the ladies out?”

“Yeah,” Nick said in angry tones.

“Do you know where they are?”

“No. They didn’t even leave a note.” Nick couldn’t believe his wife would disappear without leaving word of her plans. Not in her condition!

“Hey, here’s a casserole I can warm up. I think there’s enough for all three of us,” Brad said.

“Ah, that’s one of the casseroles Kate made,” Mike said. “I’ll set the table.”

“How did you know about the casserole?” Nick asked.

“I had a quick lunch earlier with the ladies. But I didn’t get enough to eat,” Mike assured Nick and Brad.

Nick shrugged his shoulders. “Okay, I’ll make us something to drink. Is coffee okay with both of you? I think the wind got colder today.”

It wasn’t until they were finished eating that Brad realized it was unusual for Mike to be out there during the day. He asked his reasons.

“I came to talk to Sarah,” he explained.

“Why? Is something wrong?”

“No, not really, but I need some help.”

Nick spoke up. “To do what?”

“To escort Sarah to Denver.”

Neither man seemed upset.

“Who you gonna get?” Brad asked.

Mike just looked at him.

“Oh, no! Not me. Don’t you have any deputies to handle the job?”

“You know I don’t have as many deputies as I need to take care of the county. I can’t send one of them away.”

“But I think she’ll feel better with a deputy.”

“That’s why I’m going to deputize you before you go,” Mike assured him with a grin.

Sarah was sitting at the kitchen table that afternoon, trying to make sense of her life the past few days. Not that she was complaining. She seemed to have fallen into a good situation. Abby had offered her the job of housekeeper for at least three months at a generous rate plus room and board for all three of them.

Kate had taken them all shopping, even Abby, and she’d charged all the clothing for Anna and Davy, promising to take it out of Sarah’s salary after she’d insisted. Sarah had bought more than she should, because the two kids had so little, but she didn’t regret it. It was little compared to what they deserved.

All their lives Anna and Davy had suffered from their father’s behavior. Even with Sarah living there and providing food, it wasn’t enough. Children shouldn’t have to live the way her siblings had.

The kitchen door opened and Brad walked in.

She jumped to her feet. “Do you need anything?”

Brad looked at her in surprise. “No, I was just going to get some water. The wind is cold at night, but the temperature is warm this afternoon. I was going to get a couple of bottles of cold water.”

“I’ll get them for you,” Sarah said.

He stood there while she got the water.

“Uh, where did you go today? We didn’t see anyone when we came in for a late lunch.”

“But you found the leftover casserole, didn’t you?”

“Yeah, Mike said Mom made it.”

“Yes, she brought lunch for all of us. Did Mike eat lunch with you, too?”

“Yeah, you’d think he couldn’t handle two lunches. I keep thinking it will catch up with him, but it never seems to.”

After a second, Sarah got up enough courage to ask if Mike had talked to him about going to Denver.

“Yeah, he mentioned it.”

“Did you say yes?”

He looked at her then and she noticed the dark eyes with gold flecks that matched his dark brown hair, the lines at the corners of his eyes, no doubt from working outside on the ranch. He was a handsome man. A man’s man.

A man she could fall for.

But she couldn’t. Not now.

Before he could answer, she blurted, “I don’t need you to go. I can manage on my own.”

“You need an escort.”

“It’s ridiculous for you to leave your job to go with me. I’ll be fine.” She turned away from him and pretended to wipe the cabinet.

“I’m going. Mike’s going to deputize me, so my presence will be official.”

“There’s no need.”

“How big is Ellis Ashton?”

“Why?”

“I just wondered if he’s scary.”

“He’s not quite as tall as you, but he’s big enough around to make two of you.”

“Hmm. I guess he could take me in a fight.”

“Probably not. He’s slow…and dumb.”

Brad gave a half smile. “So, maybe I could take him?”

“Maybe. But it’s neither here nor there. There will be no fighting!”

Brad shrugged his shoulders. “I was just thinking.”

“Well, don’t think. Just tell Mike no.”

“Why don’t you want me to go with you?”

“I don’t know you! You’re more of a stranger to me than my stepfather!” And what she did know—how good-looking he was—was a danger.

“Sarah, I’m going along to protect you.”

“I can take care of myself.”

“You want to compare muscles?” Brad asked with a grin.

“You’re being silly!”

Brad turned serious. “Even if your stepfather were a ninety-pound weakling, you need someone with you, to lend moral support if nothing else.”

“I told Mike I could go alone. He’s holding Anna and Davy as hostages! What more does he need to guarantee that I’m coming back?”

“Maybe he thinks you’re planning on dumping your responsibilities and cutting loose.”

Sarah immediately headed for the quickest exit.

“Why are you running away? Was I too close to the truth?”

She whirled around and charged back to him. “How dare you even insinuate that! Don’t you ever say that to Davy and Anna!”

“Are you planning on coming back?”

“Yes! I won’t dump Davy and Anna on your family! Unless—unless I can’t come back,” she said, ending in a whisper.

“Of course you’ll come back. That’s why I’m going. To make sure you do.”

“If—if something happens to me, will Abby find a home for Davy and Anna? I know your family won’t have room, but—but maybe a nice family in the area? And keep them together?”

“Quit worrying about it, Sarah. You’ll be back in a couple of days, and things will go on just like they’ve been doing.”

“Abby hired me to be her housekeeper,” Sarah informed him.

“That’s good. You seem to do the work well.”

“I guess. She’s offering me too much money.” She named the dollar amount.

“I guess Nick figured it in the budget. It’s worth it if it keeps Abby from going into labor early.”

“Yes. I’m grateful for the work…and for her taking in the kids. Kate said she would come over after school and fix them a snack and make a casserole that Nick could take out of the oven.”

“That sounds like a good plan.”

Sarah collapsed at the kitchen table. “I don’t know what to do!” she exclaimed, covering her face with her hands.

Brad sat down beside her. “You do what Mike tells you to do. He’s older and wiser. He won’t steer you wrong.”

“You have a lot of confidence in him, don’t you?”

“He’s married to my mother. We wouldn’t have let her marry him if he wasn’t a good guy.”

She gave a bitter laugh. “You think you’re always in control, don’t you?”

“Most times. My family has lived here for over a hundred years, leaving me with a great tradition and enough money to make it.”

She got up from the table and turned away from him.

“Yes, well, that’s not our family.”

“Why did your mother marry the man?” Brad asked, still sitting at the table.

“Alice was widowed and didn’t have any job skills…and she had a teenage daughter—me.”

“Did he drink then?”

“Yes, but he kept it under control. At least for a year or two. Then he’d just stop off for one beer that turned into four or five. He’d drag home about eight or nine and roar for his dinner.”

“That sounds sad. I guess you didn’t have much of a life then.”

“No. I never knew if he’d come home drunk or not come home at all. It was embarrassing.”

“When you moved back home, how old were the kids?”

“Anna was six and Davy was two.” She’d had no choice, really, but to leave the city and move back in. Her own life wouldn’t have been worth living if she knew her siblings were in danger.

Brad stood and moved to Sarah’s side. “Don’t worry, Sarah. Nick and Abby are going to take good care of your little family.”

“They’d better!”

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