George Pettigrew and his papa must leave the California rancho they'd lived on since his birth. They end up in New York City, where Papa marries and George gets a new beloved mama. George also meets Frank and Bart who become fast friends, and in Bart's case, even more.<br><br>The start of the Civil War leaves George the man of the family, but although he’s found a job, it’s difficult to pay the ever-increasing rent. Then Papa dies at Appomattox and Mama falls ill.<br><br>After Mama dies, her father takes George’s siblings. When George learns his younger sister is being abused, he rescues the three children. But will dressing his sisters as boys and himself as a woman be enough of a disguise to keep them safe until they can reach the valley he’s dreamed of? Will Bart leave behind his own family and go with the man he loves?

Home Before Sundown

George rode behind Bart, taking the opportunity to slip a hand under his belt when no one could see. “Behave,” Bart murmured, “or I’ll make you pay later.”


George’s prick hardened. “Is that a promise?” He nipped the back of Bart’s neck and chuckled when Bart reached back and pinched his thigh.


“Get a move on, you two!” Charlie rode with Noelle on Socks.


Charlie giggled. She enjoyed dressing like a boy and got a kick out of being referred to as one as well.


Frank and Mr. Fox fell in beside them, and they rode into town.


They tied their mounts to the railing in front of Weatherford’s Mercantile and entered the store. Mr. Fox purchased chamomile tea for his wife, and George bought some rock candy for Bart and his sisters and saved a few pieces for Thomas and the Fox children.


“Is there any place we can have a bath in this town?” Frank asked the man behind the counter.


Chapter 105