Page 66 of Snowed in With My Small Town Billionaire

“That sounds more like it,” Sawyer said.

“Make that two, please,” Gunner replied.

They took a seat in the back of the restaurant and Sawyer told him everything, including the situation with Gwen.

“That’s tough. Maybe she’ll change her mind.”

“I don’t want to be the guy who makes her lose Brent and who makes Brent lose the only good thing in his life right now.”

“That’s not on you. That’s on Jerome. I understand how you feel, though. Who knows, maybe he’ll change his mind.”

Sawyer shook his head. “I don’t see that happening.”

“Who knows? If she truly loves you, she’ll find her way back.”

“We’ll see. Do me a solid, though and please don’t say anything to anyone tomorrow. I don’t want to talk about it with any of them.”

“I understand. They mean well, especially Willow, but I can see why you wouldn’t want to deal with their comments, helpful advice, or offers to straighten out Jerome,” Gunner laughed.

They ate lunch and Sawyer went grocery shopping before heading home. Bubba insisted on playing ball for an hour before the both of them were completely worn out. Sawyer stretchedout on his bed to take a nap with the giant dog next to him. As much as he loved being in the comfort of his home, a tiny part of him wished he was still on the mountain – as long as Zaid was healthy.

He spent the rest of the day watching television, playing ball with Bubba, and trying to decide whether or not to shave his face before heading out to the ranch the next day.

****

The sun was shining high in the sky and it was a warm day for winter in Meadow Springs. All ten of his siblings were at the ranch, as well as the wives of his three older brothers. Franny, the cook, Della, the housekeeper, and the ranch hands, Robert and Sam, were hanging out as well – they were considered an important part of the family.

Everyone rushed around him as he and Bubba got out of his truck and ambled over to the gathering. They were all talking at once, asking about his trip and what happened.

He held up his hand, laughing, and told them the whole story, leaving out any mention of Gwen and her family. The only reference to them was when he said that a little boy got lost, fell into a ravine, and nearly froze to death. Then, his older sister got lost a few days later.

Colton, the second oldest brother, grinned at Sawyer. “So, when are you taking your next vacation?”

“Not for at least another five years,” Sawyer exclaimed.

After everyone was done exclaiming about his adventures, Ryder said, “Sadie and I have some news, as well.”

Sawyer looked at his brother and grinned. “Let me guess. There’s another little Johnson on the way.”

“That’s right. This one is a girl,” Sadie said.

“At this rate, the three of you are going to double the population of Colorado. You guys are practically multiplying by the minute. Taylor and Lane have a little one and are about to have another. Talia just gave birth to Sean, and now Sadie is going to have a baby. I’m going to have to pick up some new patients just to be able to afford all the Christmas presents.”

Willow, the youngest of the ten Johnson kids, and the only girl, nudged Sawyer playfully. “I guess you’re next in line to get hitched. I could help you set up some profiles on the online dating apps.”

“No, thank you. I’ve heard horror stories. I’m happy just spoiling my nieces and nephews.” He shot a look at Gunner. “That makes Gunner next in line. Maybe you can set him up.”

Willow looked at Gunner, put her finger on her chin, and said, “Hmmm, there’s something to work with there.”

He held up his hands in mock horror. “No. Not me. I’ve got a horse ranch to run. I don’t have time for a woman.”

They sat around, chatted, laughed, and had fun. As much as he loved his family, though, he was happy to be back home with Bubba.

He thought about Gwen and his heart hurt. Sawyer knew that the wound was fresh and the pain would ease.

“We’ll be just fine, by ourselves,” he told Bubba.

28

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