Page 30 of A Surprise Wedding for the Cowboy

What was going through his mind? Tate had no clue. All he knew for sure was that he wanted to marry for life and not throw in the towel like his parents had done. That Mom had kept working for Grandfather — albeit remotely — was testament to how well she’d once fit into the Sullivan family. And neither parent had ever dated since the breakup, at least not that they’d told their sons about.

“How many days are you here for, Dad?”

“I’m not sure. Less than a week. Why?”

“Does there have to be a reason? I’ve missed seeing you.”

“It was your choice to spend the winter in Kansas.”

“Because of Jamie.”

Sorrow crossed Dad’s face, and he rubbed his forehead. “I know. Where is the boy?”

“At my cabin with his nanny.”

Dad’s eyebrows angled up. “You’ve already hired someone?”

“Yes. Grandfather expected all of us to hit the ground running. We’ve only got another five weeks before we open to the public.”

“Well, nice you found someone quickly, then. When can I see my grandson?”

Tate glanced at the clock. “Stephanie will bring him to the lodge for lunch in about half an hour. Then it’s his nap time after that.”

“Maybe I’ll come by after dinner and spend some time with him. And you.”

“Sure… but you should know Mom has pre-empted you. You’re both welcome, of course.”

Dad rolled his eyes. “Of course, she has. We’ll see how the day goes, in that case.”

“Have you been to Sweet River before?”

“Theodore and I flew out a couple of days before your generation descended.”

“So, you’ve met Nadine and her sons?”

Dad grimaced. “Yes. I can see why your grandfather wants to make amends, but I wish he hadn’t dragged the rest of us into it.”

“Uh… they’re family?”

“We’ll see about that. Say, have you seen the ranch from the air? I’d be happy to take you up while I’m here. All of you.”

“I’m sure Stephanie and Jamie would enjoy that.”

“I meant your brothers. Cousins.” Though Dad said the last word with distaste.

“Them, too.” Tate met his dad’s gaze. “But I’d like Stephanie to see it, too.”

“She’s the nanny.”

Here went nothing. “We’re also in a relationship.”

Dad blinked. “You’re certainly not letting grass grow under your feet. May I caution you to slow down? Your mother and I rushed in where angels feared to tread, and look what happened to us.”

“Do you feel the length of time you knew each other was a significant factor?”

“Who knows?” Dad harrumphed. “But it can’t have helped.”

“James?” Grandfather had shifted closer. “Would you show Maribel to her room, please? She’s in #204 and would like to freshen up before lunch. You know how challenging I find the stairs.”

---