Page 13 of Samuel

“What about the other investors?”

“Just one other. Garrett Langdon. ”

“Is he local?”

Sam nodded. “He has a large ranch between Bell Ridge and Lark Lake. Was my dad’s best friend my whole life. But he’s a silent partner. We haven’t seen him since my dad passed away.”

“I’m so sorry. That seems cruel.”

“It is what it is.”

“What about Derrick and Zeke? They live on the ranch, right?” When Sam’s eyebrows raised, Evie clarified how she knew that information. “I’ve seen two men walking from the barn to the little house beyond the paddock a few times now. I figured that’s where they stayed.”

He nodded. “You’re right. They both live on the ranch. Zeke’s been here longer than Derrick, but they are like family.”

“That’s really nice.”

Sam shrugged, and the silence that fell between the two of them was enough to let Evie know he was done talking for now.

“Knock knock!” An older woman, with beautiful silver hair captured in a tight bun at the top of her head, walked into the office just as Evie was turning back to her computer. She stood up from her chair, smoothing the fabric of her shirt down over her stomach.

“Mom, I told you I would bring Evie up later to say hello.”

His mom. She was absolutely stunning, and she could see the same blue eyes sparkling at her as she’d stared into when meeting Sam a few days before.

“Nonsense! You were taking too long and I couldn’t help myself.” She turned to Evie, who moved to the front side ofher desk and held out her hand. “Oh, no, honey. I don’t do handshakes.”

Evie’s face went red, her hand falling back down by her side.

“I’m a hugs only kind of lady!”

Sam’s mother took two steps forward and wrapped her arms around Evie. “It’s so lovely to meet you.”

“Lovely to meet you too, Mrs. Cooper.” Evie pushed down the wave of emotions crashing through her. She hadn’t been hugged like that in years. It felt warm, maternal, and safe. There was no way she could allow herself to sink into those feelings, especially not with how serious Sam was about getting rid of her.

“Oh, none of that ‘Mrs. Cooper’ nonsense. I’m Sylvie. Although, as my granddaughter will tell you, I will also reply to ‘Goddess’ when necessary. Are you settling in okay in the apartment? Is there anything you need?”

“Everything has been perfect. I’ve been meaning to say thank you to Sam for the generous accommodations, but the morning got away from me.”

“I see. It looks better in here than it ever has. You’re already leaving your mark. I like it.”

“Thank you.”

“You’ll come up to the house one day soon for lunch?” Sylvie asked.

“Oh, I…” she looked over her shoulder at Sam, who’s eyes were focused as sharp as a longhorn’s, well, horn on her. “You know, I would really love that, Sylvie. Thank you for making me feelso welcomed.”

“Well, it’s not just you we’ve got to welcome to the family, now is it?”

Sylvie’s hand landed on Evie’s belly and she smiled as she patted her bump.

“Did Sam mentio?—”

“I didn’t say a thing. Mom, do you really think that’s appropriate? I’m sure Evie doesn’t want to be touched.”

How wrong could this cowboy be?Evie was desperate to have someone to share her excitement with. She’d love nothing more than to sit down with Sylvie and fuss over her baby.

“Oh, I’m so sorry. I wasn’t thinking.”

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