Page 40 of Montana Groom of Convenience (Montana Cowboys #5)

C arly stood in the circle of Sawyer’s arms, her head tipped back against his chest, his chin resting on her head. “It’s been lovely,” she said. Five days alone in the secluded line cabin. Time to enjoy their love without dealing with family.

“I’m grateful Kate agreed to let Beth stay with Jill and Father while we were away.”

Sawyer made a rumbling sound. “I’m grateful for so many things I can’t begin to name them.”

She turned to face him. “I’d like to hear some of them.”

He kissed the tip of her nose. “You are the first and most important. You have made my life complete.”

She rewarded him with a kiss.

“Then there’s Jill and your father and the ranch and—” His voice deepened with emotions that he freely shared with her. “And there is the life we will build together. A family where there is love and shelter and hope.”

She sighed. “We are so blessed.” She rested in his embrace a bit longer. “I suppose we should be going.” It was time to return to the ranch and to their responsibilities. Though, sharing her work and life with Sawyer would make every chore a joy.

They returned to the cabin and gathered together their belongings. She lingered in the doorway. “I will cherish the memory of the time we spent here.”

“Me, too.” He brought the horses forward, and they rode toward home.

Jill must have been watching for them, for she stood on the hill by the barn, waving a welcome.

They dismounted and hugged her.

“Did you miss us?” Carly asked.

“I had fun with Beth.” Jill tried to sound like that was enough, but then she sniffled. “But I missed you both.” They hugged her again.

“We will always come back,” Sawyer assured her.

“I know.”

They walked to the barn and took care of the horses, and then Jill pulled them toward the house. “I have a surprise for you.”

They stepped into the house. Father sat at the table, looking pleased with himself. Beth stood in the background, and then Carly saw it.

“My shepherdess.” She picked it off the table. “You can hardly tell it was broken.”

“Granddad and Beth and I fixed it for you,” Jill said. “I’m sorry I broke it.”

Her eyes wet with tears, Carly hugged Jill. “I long ago forgave you.” She set the figurine in the middle of the table. “I’m going to leave her where we can all see her and remember how much God loves us.”

Sawyer caught her to him and, ignoring the others, kissed her gently. He lifted his head, his glance circling their family.

“Love,” he said, “will always be present in our home.”