Chapter 41: The Unwanted Dinner Guest

Butterflies filled me from head to toe as we made our way toward what was now Luke’s ranch. The once-empty pastures leading to the house were now full of cattle. We all oooh’d and awed at their vast numbers.

“Where are the horses?” Marco asked with excitement.

“They live in the barn behind the house,” I explained.

“Are you going to get horses now that you live here?” he questioned.

I don’t live here now,” I corrected him “but maybe we can get a horse for when we visit,” I added with a smile, romanticizing the idea.

“Wow. Look at this place. It’s absolutely beautiful, and look at that charming

house!” Marcia exclaimed, putting the car in park.

“You okay?” she asked, noticing the anxiety on my face.

“I just wish this was all under different circumstances, you know?”

“I know. One day at a time,” she nodded, patting my arm.

“A dog! The cowboy has a dog!” Marco squealed with glee.

“Mama, can I get out… can I get out… can I get out?” Marco chanted enthusiastically.