Page 70 of Her Redeemed Protector

“If I told you, it wouldn’t be a surprise anymore.” I delight in the suspense that dances across her face.

She offers me an affectionate smile. “Okay. I’m in your capable hands.” It’s not just a passing response. Her trust warms me more than I expect.

As we reach the car and I swing it around, heading back toward Helena, the plot of my surprise thickens in my mind. I can’t wait to see it unfold. “Buckle up, sweetheart. It’s going to be an unforgettable ride,” I quip, hoping my driving isn’t as suspenseful as my surprises.

25

HUXLEY

After a whirlwind packing session at Savannah’s, I steer us westward, bound for Seeley Lake and the home I’ve been yearning for—the Starfire Ranch. Sav’s trusty collies, Ranger and Ruby, wag their tails as if embracing their adventure. Also in tow is Savannah’s majestic mare, Misty, whom we’ve just fetched from the stable.

“You’re not bringing any clothes?” Savannah asks with a hint of amusement.

“I’ve got plenty of clothes left at the ranch,” I reply, grinning at the thought of slipping back into my old cowboy gear.

Her lips twist, clearly picturing the transformation. “Can’t wait to see that.”

We arrive at Starfire just as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in strokes of fire and gold. My mom’s reaction is priceless. She’s shrieking with joy, sprinting toward us like a teenager, making me wonder when I last saw her this animated.

I know she’s already smitten with Savannah, not just because Sav’s charm is undeniable, but because she carries the spirit of the ranch in her veins. Knowing Sav has comewith her four-legged friends seems to bring out the ‘please be my daughter-in-law’ expression on her face.

Mom’s excitement bubbles over until she smacks my shoulder.

“You should’ve told me first! So I could whip up a proper dinner!”

“Don’t worry, Mrs. Cometti,” Savannah steps in. “We’ll rustle up something for everyone tonight.”

Mom’s laughter rings out, warm and hearty. “I can’t remember the last time someone called me Mrs. Cometti. Please, call me Bianca.”

“Sure, Bianca,” Savannah replies, her smile bright and easy.

“You’re a guest. I won’t have you fussing about in the kitchen!” Mom insists, her eyes twinkling. “Actually, Micah’s itching to test his new meat pie recipe. Micah!” she calls out.

“Your brother?” Savannah turns to me, a curious gleam in her eye.

Right on cue, Micah appears over the crest of the hill, his frame broader than the last time I saw him. A sharp gust of prairie wind tugs at his shirt as he walks, emphasizing his bulk. He’s the spitting image of Dad when he was younger, rugged and relentless.

“Hux!” Micah’s voice booms across the distance before he wraps me in a bear hug that could rival any seasoned ranch hand.

I pat out his biceps, his muscles rippling beneath my palm. “Look at you, man. You’ve, like… sprouted up overnight.”

He flexes his arms, showing off a bit for us. “Just trying to keep up with you.”

“How are you?” I ask, stepping back to take a better look at him.

“Yeah, same. Same,” he replies with a shrug, his eyes scanning the horizon as if measuring the day’s work yet to be done.

“Brother, this is Savannah.” I gesture to her. Savannah steps forward with a warm smile, extending her hand.

Micah’s eyes light up with a mix of curiosity and respect as he takes her hand. “Nice to meet you, Savannah. Welcome to the madness that is our little slice of country.”

Savannah laughs, her gaze flicking to me briefly. Micah’s in for a surprise about just how country my girl really is.

“Thank you, Micah,” Sav replies. “Hux hasn’t been shy about you. Only the good stuff, of course.”

A blush creeps across Micah’s cheeks, his eyes lingering just a tad too long on Savannah, clearly taken by her easy manner. “Well, damn, Hux, you’re a lucky man!”

I chuckle, clapping Micah on the shoulder, feeling a surge of pride. “Tell me something I don’t know, brother.”

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