by Danni Roan
Chase lifted his head, hope filling his heart. Was she saying what he imagined? “How so?”
“I think I’ve come to understand how a heart, a soul, can be renovated. Maybe it can’t be put back to the way it was before, but it can be new, just the same.”
Kneeing his roan closer, Chase reached out, laying his hand over hers. This was the change he had seen in the light of her eyes, and his soul leapt with joy.
Chapter 18
The cows, now somewhat accustomed to the slow amble of the trail, moved along, hemmed in by guests and ranch riders alike.
“We’ll be at the camp in about an hour.” Chase commented. “It’ll be nice to have some time to sit and talk.”
He’d barely finished his sentence before kicking his horse into a gallop, swinging wide around a preteen girl on a gray horse, who had strayed too close to an agitated steer.
“Trust your horse,” Chase directed the girl. “He’ll keep you out of trouble with the cows, but you need to listen.”
Phil smiled as the man calmly settled the girl’s nerves, helping her adjust her reins and seat. The girl smiled shyly, sitting up straighter in the teal and black saddle on her gray.
It was another thing that Chase had been right about. Younger riders loved the garish saddles. She smiled, realizing that she enjoyed the crazy contraptions as well.
She smiled again when Chase looked back over his shoulder, a gentleness in his deep eyes.
It was no wonder she had begun to develop feelings for him that went far beyond the carnal thoughts she’d harbored before. This was not only a man of honor, but a man with compassion and conviction; qualities that she’d never considered important before, but ones that made her heart swell now.
“What?” Chase questioned riding back to her as a hired hand moved in next to the young rider.
“I think you have an admirer,” she teased.
“I like kids.”
“Kids like that are rather impressionable.”
Chase looked at the girl, who was now speaking with a student from the local high school; a teen with more years’ experience in the saddle than all the guests combined.
“I can’t control what other people think, only what I do.”
“And what do you want to do now?” Phil’s voice was inviting.
“The truth?”
“Uh hum.”
“I wouldn’t mind kissing you again.”
Phil threw back her head and laughed as a hint of red tinged Chase’s ears.
“That doesn’t sound like a bad idea,” she finally replied. “I think we have a lot to talk about.”
As the sun moved westward, the cattle picked up the pace, the smell of water from the slow stream near the ranch quickening their steps.
“I’ll meet you at the chuck wagon.” Chase smiled, tipping his hat, and headed back to the herd.
Phil watched him ride away, tall and straight in the saddle. Something told her that the bronc buster was here to stay, both at the ranch and in her heart.
Phil merged with the guests, who had been aimed toward the cheerful fire at the chuck wagon. She was secretly thrilled at the comments her clients had to offer. They seemed to think that the staged event was the real deal, clueless that their efforts to move the collection of cattle were largely unnecessary.
Pulling Amy up short, she sat in her saddle, watching the guests dismounting and heading for a tub of water and discretely hidden port-a-potties.
Sunset was less than an hour away now and the scene before her was ideal. Wranglers settling fat cows in the green pastures, Kade and Randall helping guests off horses and pointing them toward the comfort facilities, and an old chuck wagon cook stirring chili in a large cast iron pot.
Mrs. Wade had done it again with Mr. Kephart. The former short order cook had agreed to filling in, as needed, at the Broken J and jumped at the chance to show case his award-winning chili at the end of the trail. The fact that the old man had a hundred and one cowboy tales to share with his diners didn’t hurt either.
“Ms. Phil,” Kephart called, “we’ll have everything ready by the time folks get washed up. Seems’ their kina’ hungry after one of these here shindigs.”
Swinging down from her horse’s back, Phil waved. “I can identify, just the smell of that brew is enough to make my mouth water.”
As the guests gathered around the crackling fire, grabbing cold drinks from an old water barrel, Phil felt a sense of contentment she couldn’t remember ever having before.
In the distance, she watched Chase take a turn around the scattered herd and head back toward her at a trot.
“You hungry or do we have a few minutes?” Chase asked, coming to a stop and looking down at her.
“I’ll get Amy,” Phil replied, about to turn.
“No need,” Chase said, reaching a hand toward her.
Phil looked about her at the guests and ranch workers, then took Chase’s hand, stepping into his open stirrup and swinging up behind him on Romeo.
“Where to?” she asked, wrapping her arms around his firm middle.
“There’s a little cove downstream.” Chase’s voice vibrated through her hands, and she snuggled tight.
The smell of fresh air, horse, and man filled her nostrils, and she sighed at the sent.
“I used to ride out this way as a boy when I came to stay here with Kade. Even then, things were lean for his family. It was always fun, though.”
“Why was it so hard for the Ballards?” Philomena asked.
“Kade’s uncle. He was always trying to push them out.”
“It’s sad when family has a falling out.”
Chase’s chuckle was answer enough.
“Any word on the case?” Phil’s mind went back to his recent legal hassle with his father.
“Ruling’s for me, but that doesn’t mean Dad won’t kick up a fuss. He was making money after all.”
Phil squeezed tighter, offering what comfort she could.
“Life’s often hard,” Chase continued, guiding the roan through some trees. “Your attitude in hardship is what’s important.”
“So, you’re a philosopher now?” Phil asked, receiving a soft chuckle in reply.
The horse came to a stop as the sound of trickling water reached her ears. Chase’s warm hand gripped hers and she slid off the horse’s haunches.
Chase Haven slipped to the ground and pulled Phil to him, kissing her. She tasted sweet and dusty from the drive.
“It’s pretty here,” Phil commented when he released her.
“Some things are prettier than others,” Chase teased.
“So, what did you want to talk to me about?” Phil finally asked, stepping away from him, admiring the stream bubbling over stones under a fuchsia sky.
“I used to come here to think when I was a kid. Kade didn’t mind if I took some time to myself when I was here. He understood a need for silence.”
Phil watched the cowboy who was quickly stealing her heart, her violet eyes bright with feeling.
“Do you need to think now?” she finally spoke into the soft silence.
“I’ve been thinking.” Chase took a step closer. “From the first time I saw you, I felt something.” Placing his hands on her upper arms, he studied her face. “The attraction was mighty strong.”
Phil reached up, pushing his hat back on his head, admiring the strength in his face.
“I can’t deny I enjoyed what I saw when you stepped out of that truck.” Phil ran a finger down his jaw.
“Things are different now though,” Chase continued. “I’m afraid I’ve grown to care for you.”
“Is that bad?” Phil’s heart sank at his words.
“That depends,” the cowboy cocked a brow, his blue eyes searching hers, “it’s good if you’re heart’s where it belongs.”
A warmth bubbled up in Phil’s chest. “Not so long ago, my heart was far less a concern than my success,” she mused. “Now I realize that the things that truly last are
love, hope, faith.” She met his gaze, waiting to see his response.
“I do things for keeps, Philomena,” Chase said, his voice husky. “If you’re in, it’s for the long haul…” his voice trailed off, letting her absorb the question.
Phil stroked her hand over the back of his neck, pulling him close, and smiled at his shiver. “When I came to the Broken J, I was looking for permanence, for a chance to make something of my own.” She paused gathering her thoughts. “I was prepared for the changes I would make to the ranch. I didn’t know how it would change me.”
Chase pulled her close, cradling her head in his strong hands. “I hope you like those changes,” he whispered against her hair.
“I never knew I could feel this kind of joy.”
Chase leaned back, looking into her eyes, and pushed a lock of dark hair behind her ear. “It’s kind of like growing up,” he said, studying her face. “Each day you grow a little, learn a little, make mistakes sometimes.”
Phil placed her lips on his, then spoke again. “I hope that’s not a mistake.”
“Not in my book.” He smiled and kissed her again. “You’ll think I’m crazy, but I’m pretty sure I’m falling for you.”
“That sounds serious.” Phil said, “Is there a cure?” she added, struggling to keep her face straight.
“How about I tell you in forty or fifty years?” Again, he kissed her. “We’d better get back.”
“Sad, but true.”
Together they walked back to his horse and climbed aboard, returning quietly to the camp fire and supper as a local country band started to play old cowboy songs.
“You have a nice ride?” Kade Ballard asked with a smile, reaching up to lift Phil from the horse.
“Yep,” she said, tipping her chin and walking to the fire.
“She’s had a change of heart, Kade,” Chase said, stepping down from his horse. “She’s let God in to her life and invited me, too.”
Kade slapped a hand on his friend’s shoulder, almost causing his knees to buckle. “I’m happy for you both,” he said smiling. “Maybe more than this old place is getting a second chance.”
Chase laughed, watching his friend walk away. He hoped that someday his friend would find someone to love.
Chapter 19
“Michi, you have to come, you’re the closest thing to family that I have.”
“I don’t know if I can, Phil,” Michelle’s voice was strained on the other end of the line. “Work and everything…” her voice ran out lamely.
“You own your own business and work from home,” Phil spat, her voice agitated.
“Phil, I’ll, I’ll try.” The sound of tears threatening softened Philomena’s voice.
“I can’t say I understand, Michelle, but you’ve been my friend longer than anyone else and I trust you. If you say you can’t be here, I’ll understand. I won’t like it, but I’ll understand.”
“I’ll do all I can to be there Phil, honest.”
“Alright, but it’s my wedding.” She resisted the urge to whine.
“I know.” The hitch in Michelle’s voice tore at Phil’s heart.
“Just let me know if you’re going to make it. I refuse to ask anyone else to be my maid of honor.”
“Okay.” Michelle replied, her voice steady again. “You know I love you.”
“I love you to. I’ll talk to you later.” Phil dialed off, brushing a tear from her eyes. Michelle was becoming more and more unreliable.
Phil shook her head. “If something’s wrong, she’ll tell me,” she said to the empty room.
“What’s wrong?” Chase suddenly stood in her door, his eyes soaking her in.
“Nothing.” Phil reached for him and pulling him close, waited for his kiss.
Chase lingered over the kiss a few seconds longer than he should as he reveled in the love she offered.
“Phil?”
“It’s Michelle. She’s not sure she can make it.”
“But she’s your best friend.”
“I know. Something must have happened, but she won’t tell me.”
“Can I do anything?” Chase offered, feeling protective and concerned as he pulled her close.
“Pray,” Phil answered, burrowing into his strong arms.
***
“Don’t you look wonderful!” Mrs. Wade gushed. “I never thought they could bring that old dress back to life, but just look at it.” The older woman clasped her hands together with a smack.
Phil twirled in the long dress.
“The blue has faded a might, but it’s still pretty as can be,” Mrs. Wade continued, “and with your dark hair…” She shook her head.
“It’s our first ranch wedding.” Phil said, adjusting the rose buds twined into her dark tresses, whirling as her door banged open.
“I’m here!” Michelle squeaked, rushing to her friend and squeezing her tight.
“Oh honey, I was so worried you wouldn’t make it. Are you all right?”
“I’m wonderful, really,” Michelle replied, wiping a tear from her eye. “Now let’s get you married.”
Phil laughed, her tears drying rapidly. “You look just right,” she said, looking at the dress her friend wore. “How did you know to wear white?”
“You told me about the dresses when you first found them in that old trunk,” Michelle said, tossing her thick curls over her shoulder.
“When is this thing starting?” a gruff voice called through the door, making Phil’s eyes flash.
“Hello, Charles,” she drawled, not trying to disguise the disdain in her voice. She’d never liked Michelle’s boyfriend, and she couldn’t understand why a smart girl like her friend stayed with the loser.
“I see you’re not wearing white,” the thick-necked man said, turning on his heel and walking off down the hall.
“I’ll keep him out of trouble, I promise,” Michelle said, dropping her eyes.
“It’s time,” Mrs. Wade said, looking between the two young women.
Grabbing her friend’s hand with a grin, Phil raced through the kitchen, skirt in hand.
“Phil, slow down,” Michelle cried, trying to keep up with her friend’s much longer legs. “Besides, I’m supposed to go first.”
Phil stopped suddenly, wheeled and pulled her petite friend into a fierce hug. “Alright, but hurry up. I’m ready to be hitched.”
The walk down the aisle moments later was painstaking as Phil put one foot in front of the other until she stood before Chase.
She’d loved the way the man looked in his flannel shirt and jeans but in a smoke gray suit, he was drop-dead gorgeous, pure masculinity wrapped in suave demure.
The wedding flew buy as Philomena’s heart soared, bound once and for all to the man she’d fallen in love with so completely.
She’d been growing to know him a little more each day even as she learned about him and her heavenly Father. They’d established a time of Bible study and reflection and completed their pre-marital counseling with the preacher who droned on even now.
How could life be so completely beautiful and unpredictable?
As the preacher finished uttering his final words, Chase smiled at her, leaning in to plant a passionate kiss on her lips.
The whole world evaporated as Phil’s lips met Chase’s one more time. All the hours of planning, all the arrangements, all the catering choices seemed to mean nothing compared to the kiss; the promise of a lifetime.
Epilogue
The ranch was buzzing with activity and Phil had bookings filled through Christmas. She and Chase had forgone the traditional honey moon in favor of some time off later, when the Broken J could do without them for a bit.
“You look mighty pretty,” Chase said, walking into the office and placing a kiss on her forehead.
“I’m trying to figure out what to wear for this special event of Michelle’s. She said semi-formal, but...” she twirled slightly.
“You look good in purple,” Chase offered, his eyes slowly raking o
ver his wife’s form, wrapped in the knee-length dress.
Phil turned toward their room and the full-length mirror.
“I’ll miss you while you’re gone,” Chase said, following her and wrapping his arms around her.
“I’m only going to be gone for a day,” Phil laughed, snuggling back in to his arms, feeling warmth trickle through her whole being.
“I could go with you,” Chase offered, waggling his eye brows. “Make a weekend of it.”
“What, and leave Mrs. Wade to her own devices?”
Chase laughed, nuzzling her neck. “I guess we do have a week away after Kade’s trip.”
“I look forward to traveling with you,” Phil said. “It seems like we’ve already come so far,” she added, turning and wrapping her arms around his neck.
“We have a lifetime a head of us,” Chase purred, kissing her ear.
Phil pulled away from her husband, looking into his eyes. “It feels like every day is an adventure, even the ones where all we do is cuddle up with a bowl of popcorn and watch a movie.”
“Life is beautiful in its own way,” Chase said. “You never know what might happen.” Leaning forward, he kissed her soundly.
“Anyone here?” a scratchy voice called as the screen door banged closed.
Phil felt Chase tense in her arms and scowled as he released her and turned away.
“Chase?” she asked, confused.
“Dad.” The wranglers voice was strained.
Phil gasped, hurrying to Chase where he stood in the doorway of the office. Silently, she lifted a prayer and slipped her hand into his.
“This must be your new wife,” an older man said, examining her with deep blue eyes. “Afraid I was on the road when your invitation came, through.” He raised his eyes to his son. “Surprised me getting that card in the mail.”
“You’re my father, you had a right to be there.” Chase pulled Phil beside him, wrapping an arm around her possessively. “Phil, meet my dad, Jason Haven.”
“Hello,” Phil offered, unsure if she should be welcoming or rude.
“Nice to meet you, young lady,” the older man said. “Can we talk, Chase?” he asked, looking at his son.
