Cowboys & Navy SEALs

Epilogue

ONE DAY LATER …

It was a perfect evening—the kind that was good for the soul. Members of the Romeo family who were in the vicinity had gathered to make hot dogs and s’mores around the large fire-pit behind the main ranch house. Lemon was grateful to be included among the bunch. She and Jaxson were sitting on a double Adirondack chair. Jaxson had his arm draped around her shoulders, his ankle propped up on a large, moveable stump that served as an outdoor ottoman.

Lemon nestled into the curve of Jaxson’s arm to ward off the slight chill in the air. Her gaze went to the fire in the pit. For a second, she let her mind get lost in the mesmerizing glow of the feathery orange flames licking up the logs. She looked around the circle of people, catching flutes of laughter as well as bits and pieces of the various conversations taking place around her. Zoe, her children, and Briggs were sitting together. A grin curved Lemon’s lips. Briggs was helping Madison slide two marshmallows onto a roasting stick. Watching Briggs interact with Milo and Madison, one would have assumed that he was their dad.

Seated to Zoe’s left were Knox and Birdie, happy as two lovebirds in a nest. Lemon still had a hard time believing that they weren’t actually together.

Madison held the marshmallows straight into the flames of the fire.

“Careful, Mads,” Birdie warned, “or they’ll catch on fire.”

Briggs caught Madison’s arms and pulled her back slightly. “There, put it near the flame, not directly in it.”

Lemon’s gaze moved to Ramsey and Hartley who were snuggled up together, their heads nearly touching. Both wore the radiant expressions of a newlywed couple. Lemon was a big fan of Hartley’s music. Never, in a million years, would Lemon have thought that she would be closely associated with her. Hartley was as gorgeous in person as she was on TV with her vivid blue eyes and copper hair. Ramsey and Hartley decided to stay in Franklin for an extra day before returning to their honeymoon in Maui so that Ramsey could assist Chief Blankenship in wrapping up the loose ends of the Wesley ordeal.

A shiver slid down Lemon’s spine. The entire thing was so harrowing. She didn’t want to think about how close she’d come to not only losing her life, but also Jaxson. Had Ramsey not been such a great marksman … she shook her head, pulling her thoughts away from the darkness as she offered a silent prayer of gratitude. A feeling of overwhelming love rose in her breast as she glanced at Jaxson’s handsome profile. She could hardly believe that she was here with him and that they were back together. She’d been given her innermost desire—a second chance with the love of her life. She intended to utilize that second chance to the fullest, holding nothing back.

It was nice being here, feeling like she was part of a family. Lemon was glad that Lucas and especially Lexi were here tonight. Lemon owed Lexi a lot. Had Lexi not given her the pepper spray, last night’s events might have played out much differently. Lucas was sitting beside Jaxson with Lexi on the other side of Lemon. Shockingly, Jaxson and Lucas had actually been having an amicable conversation about the ranch.

Ramsey tipped his head back, laughing at something Hartley had said. It was impressive how put-together Ramsey was considering that he’d shot two men dead just the day before. Then again, in Ramsey’s profession, he was probably used to tense situations and death. Lemon, on the other hand, knew it would take a long time before her brain would stop replaying the horrible sight of Wesley and his goon splayed out, lifeless on the asphalt.

“You okay?” Jaxson asked with a note of concern.

She offered a quick smile in response. “I’m good.”

Before Jaxson could question her further, Lucas cut in, “I know you think Vance Bryant can walk on water, but I’m not sure that he’s the best guy for the job. Walter McIntosh and his group have been begging for our business. I’ll bet they’d fix the feeder for half what Vance charges. I say give ‘em a shot to show us what they can do.”

Jaxson grunted. “Vance charges more because he’s the best.”

Lucas’s voice rose. “You’ve gotta get your head out of the sand, cousin, and get with the times. Vance is older than the hills.”

Back and forth they went. Lemon sighed. Maybe the conversation between Jaxson and Lucas wasn’t so amicable after all. She supposed that’s how it would always be between the two rivals.

Lexi touched Lemon’s arm. “How ya feeling about everything?”

Lemon swallowed. “I’m doing okay.” She really was okay, all things considered. It would take her time to fully heal, but she was hopeful about the future.

The corners of Lexi’s mouth turned down. “I’m really sorry about your mom.”

A lump rose in Lemon’s throat. “Me too.” She still found it hard to believe that her mom was gone. It was surreal. A few hours earlier, she’d spoken to a rep from the care center. The plan was to have the body sent back here where they would have a quiet memorial service and then put her body to rest at a local cemetery. The police were opening an investigation into her mother’s death. Lemon figured that Wesley had covered his tracks well. Still, she hoped the investigation would lead police to the hired killer.

“What will you do about your business?” Lexi asked.

Lemon felt Jaxson tense slightly. She grinned inwardly, sensing that he’d suddenly become interested in her and Lexi’s conversation. “I don’t plan to make any rash decisions, right away. I’ll work remotely from here. Eventually, I might decide to sell Shade my portion of the business and try my hand at another venture. Something I’ve been thinking about for a long time.”

“What venture?” Jaxson asked.

“Eavesdropper,” she taunted with a grin.

Jaxson tightened his hold on her shoulders, chuckling. “You can’t fault a man for wanting to know about his woman.”

A warm glow moved through her body as she smiled, liking that he’d called her his woman. She reached for his hand, linking her fingers through his. “Well, if you must know, I’ve been thinking about exploring the idea of starting a horsemanship therapy program for troubled youth.”

“Really?” he asked enthusiastically.

She angled to face him. “That is, if I could find the right ranch.”

He pursed his lips. “Yeah, that might be difficult.” A playful light danced in his eyes as he leaned closer and murmured. “Although, if you were really good at persuading—throw around a few more of those dull, boring kisses—I might be able to hook you up with a ranch manager who could help you out.” He made a point of looking at her lips.

Heat wafted through her as she laughed. “I’ll see what I can do.”

Her skin trembled when the tips of his fingers brushed her cheek. “A therapy program,” he mused. “That’s fantastic.” A large grin curled his lips. “You know, I seem to remember someone wanting to do that before. I guess we’re coming full circle.”

The significance of his words settled into her heart. “I guess so,” she answered, a feeling of contentment enveloping her. She looked deep into his warm, liquid eyes, getting a peek into heaven. “Full circle is good,” she uttered.

“Yes, it is.”

Zoe rose to her feet, yawning. “We’d better call it a night, so we can get these kiddos to bed. They have school in the morning.”

Briggs also stood.

“Aw, come on, can’t we stay a little longer?” Milo argued, his face contorting into a sour expression.

“I wanna make another s’more,” Madison said.

“You’ve had plenty, toots.” Zoe tousled Madison’s dark hair.

Zoe looked across the fire, giving Lemon a warm smile. “I’m so glad you and Jaxson are okay … and that you can put that horrible mess behind you.”

“Me too,” Lemon agreed. Growing up, she’d always liked Zoe. Lemon looked forward to them resuming their friendship.

“We’re glad you’re here,” Zoe added, making a point of looking at Jaxson. “He needs you.”

“Yes, I do!” Jaxson agreed.

After they’d gathered up their things, Briggs gave a farewell wave to the group. “Goodnight.”

“It’s good to see Zoe so happy,” Knox observed after they’d left.

Pulling her sweater tighter around her, Birdie nodded. “It was a long time coming.”

Knox’s voice grew wistful. “First, Noah and Piper. Now, Ramsey and Hartley. Zoe’s getting married in December. Cash and Ava won’t be far behind.” A playful grin tugged at his lips as he looked at Lemon and Jaxson. “What’s the word? Us old folks could use some good news.”

“We’re not old,” Birdie guffawed, giving him a slight shove.

“Well?” Knox pressed.

All eyes in the group lasered in on Lemon and Jaxson. Heat flamed her cheeks. She didn’t know how to answer.

“Don’t rush us,” Jaxson protested. “We’re only just now back together. Who knows if we’ll even stick this time?”

Lemon’s jaw dropped as she spun around. “Really?!”

A deep, throaty laugh rumbled in Jaxson’s throat. “Gotcha,” he quipped, giving Lemon a cocky grin.

“Ha ha,” she said, only partially amused by his antic.

“You deserved that.” Jaxson squeezed her shoulders. “Don’t worry,” he chimed loudly. “Lemon and I are great.”

Lemon rolled her eyes. “We were doing great, until that comment,” she retorted.

This earned her laughter from Birdie and Lexi.

“She’s good,” Birdie said, winking at Lemon. “I certainly don’t have to worry about Lemon holding her own.”

“No, you don’t,” Jaxson drawled, giving Lemon an affectionate look.

Knox turned to Ramsey, his voice growing serious. “Did everything go okay at the police station today?”

Lemon realized what was happening. Knox had waited until Milo and Maddison left to discuss yesterday’s events. The longer Lemon was around Knox, the more her admiration and respect for him increased. He was the noble king of his family, and Birdie was his cherished queen. Lemon couldn’t imagine Knox having an affair on Birdie. It blew her mind. She was grateful that they’d mended their relationship. The two were dynamic together. It was obvious that their children worshipped the ground they walked on.

Ramsey sat up straight. “It went as well as can be expected. Of course, the press is having a field day considering who Wesley Livingston was.”

Knox grimaced. “I don’t reckon that Ellis took it too well when he found out.”

“Do you think Ellis will try to retaliate?” Ramsey asked, a clear note of concern in his voice.

Goosebumps popped up on Lemon’s arms. Retaliate? That thought hadn’t even entered her mind. She’d heard a lot about Wesley’s dad. She knew Ellis was a powerful man, but she’d never met him.

Knox took in a long breath. “I don’t think Ellis would try anything, but it’s hard to say for sure what people are capable of. I guess we’ll have to just keep our eyes open.”

Lemon’s stomach churned as her words trembled out. “I’m so sorry to have put your family in this situation.”

“It wasn’t your fault.” Birdie gave Lemon a reassuring smile. “We’re just glad you’re okay.”

“You don’t need to apologize,” Jaxson stated firmly. “You’re family. We take care of our own.”

Tears misted Lemon’s eyes. “Thank you,” she said hoarsely.

Ramsey spoke. “I found out some additional news about Jacklyn, the girl who fell.”

Lemon tensed, waiting for him to continue.

“Jacklyn worked for the Livingstons as a maid.”

Lemon’s eyes widened. It made sense. In her dream, Jacklyn was her maid. That bit had puzzled Lemon as she’d never been inside Wesley’s estate. Her brain must’ve inserted the part about the gowns as a way to cope with what she’d seen.

“Jacklyn’s family reported her missing,” Ramsey continued. “She left her parents’ home, saying she was going to the grocery store. She never returned. Her car and body have yet to be recovered.”

A combination of anger and sorrow stirred inside Lemon. She was glad that Wesley would never be able to hurt anyone else. Maybe that’s how Ramsey dealt with the deaths, knowing that his actions were making the world a better place, protecting innocents from terrible people.

Silence settled over the group, the only sound the crackling fire.

“We have a lot to be thankful for,” Knox said, his gaze meeting Lemon’s. “I’m glad that the good Lord brought you back to Jaxson. And that He kept you both safe yesterday.”

Tears rose in Lemon’s eyes. “Me too.”

Jaxson turned, a tender smile softening his features. “God put you in my path.”

“Yes, he did,” Knox asserted with conviction. “Have y’all ever thought about the night of the accident? Think about the odds of Jaxson being the one to come around that corner to find Lemon standing in the middle of the road.” His penetrating gaze moved from Jaxson to Lemon. “Y’all are meant to be together.”

The truth of Knox’s words sank into Lemon’s soul. Moisture rose in her eyes as she blinked to stay it.

Ramsey sighed deeply. “Well, as helpful and sappy as this conversation is, we’d better head out.” He stood, reaching for Hartley’s hand and lifting her up with him. He encircled her waist, pulling her to him with a forceful movement as his eyes moved over her face. “I’d better get this woman home so we can get reacquainted.”

Hartley guffawed, hitting his chest with the flat of her hand. “Hold your horses, superman. You know I’m not that kind of girl.” She glanced at Birdie like she was embarrassed.

Ramsey laughed like he was getting a huge kick out of teasing Hartley. “We’re all adults here, babe. It ain’t no secret what we’ve been doing on our honeymoon.”

Hartley shook her head in exasperation. “I can’t take him anywhere.”

Everyone laughed.

Knox turned to Birdie. “I reckon we’d better head out too.”

She nodded as she stood. Lexi and Lucas also got to their feet.

Lemon was about to stand up as well, but Jaxson caught her arm. “Let’s stay out here for a while,” he suggested, “watch the fire die down.”

“Sure.” Lemon welcomed the chance to sit by the fire with Jaxson.

Lexi leaned over and gave Lemon a quick hug. “I’ll catch up with you tomorrow.”

“Sounds good,” Lemon answered.

As everyone was saying their goodbyes, Hartley made her way over to Lexi. “Hey,” Hartley began, touching Lexi’s arm, “I got a call from a friend of mine. He’s one of the producers for the upcoming season of The Singing Bachelor. One of the bachelorettes had to back out at the last minute. They’re looking for a replacement. I thought of you.”

“Really?” Lexi gurgled.

“Would you be interested in being a contestant? It’ll give you lots of exposure.”

A disbelieving giggle rose in Lexi’s throat. “That would be fantastic!” she gushed.

Lucas was standing nearby. He frowned. “Isn’t that one of those moronic shows where the dozen or so girls throw themselves at the one guy?”

“Yeah,” Lexi said warily.

“What’s wrong, Luke?” Jaxson teased. “You wishing you could be the lucky bachelor?”

Lucas scowled. “I’m worried about my sister.” He gave Lexi an accusing look. “You didn’t even ask who the bachelor is.”

Lexi’s hand went to her hip. “That’s because the identity of the bachelor isn’t revealed until the start of the show.”

Lucas made a face. “What if he’s dawg ugly?”

Lexi’s voice shot up several octaves. “On The Singing Bachelor?” She giggled. “I can assure you, bro, the guy won’t be ugly. No one would watch the show if he were.”

“He could still be a scumbag,” Lucas grumbled.

“Technically, the premise of the show is about musicians connecting and finding love,” Hartley explained, “but that rarely ever happens.” She looked at Lexi. “What will happen, however, is that people all over the nation will be tuning in to watch you sing. You’ll get an instant fan base.”

“That would be wonderful,” Lexi trilled. “A once in a lifetime opportunity. Thank you.”

“I’ll have Trent give you a call,” Hartley promised as the two exchanged numbers.

Lexi was over-the-moon excited. Lemon could totally understand Lucas’s reservations about the unknown bachelor. Nevertheless, she was thrilled for her best friend. Maybe this would be Lexi’s lucky break.

Lucas stepped up to Lemon and reached for her hand. “I’m so glad you’re okay.” A sentimental smile tipped his lips. “You always were the prettiest girl in the room.” He brought her hand to his lips and planted a soft kiss.

“Thank you,” she stammered, delicately pulling her hand away from Lucas’s grasp. She glanced at Jaxson whose jaw had gone harder than the rocks on the fire-pit.

Lucas cut his eyes at Jaxson, but not before Lemon caught a glimmer of amusement. “Don’t you think it’s time to tell him what really happened? Put the poor guy out of his misery?”

“What’re you talking about?” Jaxson growled.

“Ask your woman,” Lucas said, winking at Lemon as he swaggered away.

“What was that all about?” Jaxson demanded.

“I’ll tell you after everyone leaves.” She touched his arm. “Be patient.” She didn’t know whether she should thank Lucas or slug him for opening up the conversation. She grinned inwardly. Maybe thank him . This conversation was long overdue.

The minute everyone left, Jaxson shifted to face her. “Spill it,” he ordered.

She clucked her tongue. “So bossy.”

He pushed out a heavy sigh. “Just tell me, Lemon.”

“Okay, here goes. You got it all wrong.”

His brows bunched. “What wrong?”

“That night after the graduation party when you came up on me and Lucas. It wasn’t what you thought.” She looked him in the eye. “I was upset. Lucas was trying to console me. Before I even realized what was happening, he leaned over and kissed me. The next thing I knew, you were there—going berserk.” Dang, it felt good to get that out … after all these years.

His face fell. “Why didn’t you say anything?”

“I would have, but you never gave me the chance. You punched Lucas, started yelling at me. Then, I got ticked, thinking Well, if that’s how little you thought of me, then I’d just let you believe it.”

“All of these years,” he uttered. “We could’ve been together.” He grunted out a sharp laugh as he rubbed his forehead. “Wow, I guess I’m the idiot here. I’m so sorry,” he said quietly. Regret deepened the faint creases around his eyes.

She cupped his cheek with her palm. “Don’t be.” A smile touched her lips. “No more apologizing, remember?” He nodded in agreement, but she could feel his pain and regret, tying a tight noose around them. She sought for the words to help him understand. “It was for the best. I needed to go away and explore my dreams.” She swallowed the tightness in her throat. “It was easier for the two of us to be on the outs. Had we not been, I don’t think I could’ve mustered the strength to let you go.”

“Why didn’t you come back sooner?”

She lowered her hand as she raised an eyebrow. “I wanted to, but by then, you were dating half the countryside.”

“Only because I couldn’t have you,” he shot back, eyes narrowing a fraction.

“I know that now. Truly.” A mercurial smile moved over her lips. “Don’t you think it’s time to move on—forgive and forget?”

Surprise zinged through his eyes before the tension on his face dissolved into an amused grin. “I think I’ve heard that somewhere before.” He searched her face, his voice growing ponderous. “Speaking of forgetting, you sure you’re not gonna go off again to the big city, forget all about little ole’ me?”

His voice was playful, but she could sense the gravity of his words, could feel his vulnerability.

She looked him in the eye, speaking with a fierce determination so there would be no mistaking her intent. “Never again will I ever forget you—literally or figuratively.”

A large, pleased smile broke over his features. “That’s good to know.”

Her eyes misted. “I love you, Jaxson. I always have.”

“I love you too.” He leaned closer, his voice going husky. “Now, how about giving me one of those dull, boring kisses?”

Gentle laughter rose in her throat, bringing with it a burst of undiluted joy. “I can do that, Mr. Hotshot Cowboy. But only for you,” she quipped as her lips found his.

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