Back at the ranch, the moon was just rising over the western horizon. While Jenny opened the pasture gate to let the other horses return to the barn, Cole eased Apollo and Dahlia out of the trailer. When they returned everything to the tack room, Cole watched Jenny smile to herself as she lightly traced her fingers over the pattern on her new saddle.
She looked up and saw him watching her. Its beautiful and I love it. Thank you again.
He nodded, pleased. Youre welcome. Im so happy you like it.
Jenny hugged herself stiffly. And thank you for everything else, too. I mean, the presents of course, but for taking me riding and showing me the giant sequoias, and for dinner She trailed off, shifting her weight uncomfortably.
Despite his words to the contrary, Cole could see she still thought of herself as damaged, still convinced that he saw her that way, too. He went to her and took her hand, lifting it to his lips and lightly kissing her palm.