Page 14 of Samuel

“No, please. I don’t mind at all. I’d love to come to lunch one day, and I’d love to talk about the baby.”

Sylvie’s eye’s held an ocean of compassion and Evie prayed her voice would stay steady as all her emotions burned the back off her throat.Stupid hormones.

“Good. I’m in my garden most mornings. Just pop up to the house and let me know what day works for you.”

“I will.”

“Perfect. I’ll let you two get back to business. It was so nice meeting you, Evie. I know you are going to be right at home here on the ranch.”

Evie spun and gave Sam a smug smile. “I’ve been trying to tell your son that all morning, but it seems I still have to prove some things to earn my spurs in his eyes.”

“I wouldn’t worry about spurs, honey. It’s his hat you need to watch out for.”

“Mom.” There was a warning in Sam’s growl, but for what, Evie had no idea.

Sylvie just laughed as she walked out of the room.

Five

Evie drove into Bell Ridge early that Saturday morning. It was her first chance to check out the sleepy little town. And she was curious to see if she could meet some of Sam’s friends. Daisy had invited her to stop by her booth at the farmer’s market, and there was no way Evie could resist.

So there she was, strolling down Main Street with her canvas bag and a few dollars in her purse in search of her very first Texas treasure. Her eyes widened as she took in the number of booths lining the street. It was impressive, and slightly overwhelming.

She strolled and enjoyed looking at the trinkets, taking her time at one booth that had precious handmade blankets and sleeper outfits. She’d definitely need to go back and buy a few for the baby.

“Evie!” Hearing her name startled her. But as soon as she turned around, her eyes caught Daisy waving wildly at her, Sunny strapped in an adorable sunflower covered carrier on her chest. She made her way across thebusy street.

“I’m so glad you made it!” Daisy gave her a side hug while Sunny giggled as Evie tickled her feet.

“Me too. This market is incredible.”

“It’s really grown over the last few years. Oh,” Daisy turned, looking at the man standing in her booth. “Honey, come here. I want you to meet Evie.”

“Evie, this is my husband, Hank. He’s the Sheriff here in Clarence County.”

“Nice to meet you, Evie.” Hank extended his hand out and she shook it. “If you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to come over to the farm.”

“Thank you.”

“So, who have you met on your adventures this morning?”

“Oh, well I had a really nice chat with an older woman at the bookstore. And there was a really nice teen who helped me check out with my groceries.”

“Meaning, you haven’t really met anyone?”

“Yeah,” she laughed nervously.

“Okay, time to introduce you around.” Daisy hooked her arm through Evie’s and started walking away from her booth. “You’ve got it from here, Sheriff.”

“Sure thing, Sunshine.”

Evie assumed they would stroll a bit before stopping, which is why she tripped over her own feet when Daisy stopped at the very next booth. She immediately recognized the logo: A large “R” surrounded by two circles. The Red River Ranch brand.

“Abby! I’ve got someone I want you to meet.”

Evie watched as a little girl, probably four or five years old, bounded out from behind the table. Sam’s sister was handing cash back to a customer, but never took her eyes off the little girl. It had to be her daughter. They both had the same bright smile.

“Katy. Wait for me, please.” Abby rounded the table and wiped her hands on her apron.

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