Page 111 of Wylder Ranch
CHAPTER 26
Alexander
It’s a funny thing, life.
Watching the sun break on the horizon, its yolky orb casting a glow over the valley, is both magical and incredibly peaceful. There’s nothing like it.
Everywhere, as far as I can see, is layered in white. Pure, fresh, and beautiful. And on the last day of the year, it feels like a calling to start again, the beginning of something hopeful and promising.
No one can tell you what’s around the corner, and no one can predict what’s going to happen. It’s been a year since I was last in Aspen, and in the time that’s passed, I’ve fallen in love and become a father. What’s more, I have a future to look forward to.
Steam from my coffee curls in the cold morning air before disappearing, and the only sound I hear is my daughter hungrily sucking down her milk as she lies in my arms.
My heart is so full that I feel it brimming over.
The new year comes with the weight of expectation.
Resolutions, vows, the idea that you’re going to do things differently come January first.
But looking at Everly, I can honestly say that I want everything to stay exactly how it is—Haven, Everly, andme.
Perhaps with one tiny tweak.
The screen door squeaks open, and I turn to see Haven with a blanket wrapped around her like a mummy, looking sheepish. It brings a smile to my face. She doesn’t say anything when I lift my arm for her to join us. She just shuffles over and curls into my side, dragging the blanket along the floor with her.
Leaning forward, I pick up my coffee and hand it over. She groans in satisfaction through her first mouthful, cupping the mug in her palms, as she smiles at Everly.
“Are you mad at me?”
My lips find her temple. “No, why would I be mad?”
“Because of Mike?”
I shake my head. “I wish you had told me, but I don’t care.”
“It doesn’t change anything?”
I twist around so I can look at her, just to check she’s not joking. Because that question is crazy thinking. But she’s looking at me, serious as a heart attack.
“What? That you went on a couple of dates with some fucking clown at the beginning of the year?” I chuckle. “No, Haven. It doesn’t change that I love you.”
“Oh.” She snuggles back down into my side. “Good.”
I take the coffee mug from her and sip. It’s only a matter of time before she brings up the other of last night’s revelations, and I’m debating whether I should wait or put her out of her misery. Because it’s definitely something I have thoughts on.
And sitting out here watching the sunrise has only helped solidify them.
“But,” I begin. “We need to talk about Aspen?—”
“I was thinking we would stay in Valentine Nook.”
I blink. That isnotwhat I was expecting, and again, I’m checking her face to make sure she’s not joking. All I see are her big green eyes peering up at me,hopeful.
“Wait. You want to stay in England?”
She nods. “I do. I want Everly to grow up there.”
“Haven—”
