Emma's Wish

Trying desperately to hide the laugh threatening to bubble up, Sam grunted something about wasting time talking when they had things to do.

As they rode back to the ranch, Joseph's comment came back to Emma.

Stupid.

He had hit the nail on the head. She'd been incredibly stupid allowing Sam's lips and his touch to make her forget the reality - that she was disfigured, that her body was something to be pitied, not desired.

She really should thank the boy for reminding her of the truth.

Chapter 11

"That was a fine meal, Emma, as always," Sam said, wiping his mouth then setting the crumpled checkered napkin back on the table. "You keep feeding me like this

and pretty soon you'll have to let out the seams in my pants."

Emma flushed at his compliment, and he smiled. He still couldn't get over it. She really had no idea what a prize she was. He'd never get used to the fact that she didn't expect thanks for all she did for him and the children.

She worked day and night to make their home warm and inviting, and never once had he heard a complaint. To top it off, she had no idea how desirable she was. She kept her creamy skin hidden beneath high collars and long sleeves she insisted on wearing no matter how warm the weather. The few glimpses he'd had of that skin made him crave her more than he'd ever thought possible.

He loved her, and he was almost positive she cared for him, too. He was a happy man.

Yessir, life was good.

"Can we go now, Pa?" Joseph asked, gulping down the last of his milk and running the back of his hand across his mouth. "We want to go outside and play with Apollo."

"You finished your chores?"

Both boys nodded. "Yes sir."

Sam looked at Emma. "Anything you need the boys to do?"

"No."

Sam turned back to the two boys. "Fine. A half hour."

Their chairs scraped against the floor as the boys raced from the table and disappeared out the door, letting the screen slam behind them.

"Me go play, too," Becky cried out, sliding down from her chair.

Emma scooped her up before she followed the boys outside. "It's bedtime, Becky."

Becky's bottom lip slowly formed a pout, and her eyes narrowed. "No."

"Yes."

"No," Becky repeated, her small body squirming in Emma's grasp. "Me play."

"Hush," Emma said. "You can play in the morning. Right now, it's time for you to get ready for bed. Why don't I read you a story? Would you like that?"

Becky's protests died on her lips. "Story. Read me a story."

Emma chuckled, then set Becky down. "Go and get your nightdress and find a storybook. I'll be up to help you in a few minutes, as soon as I finish the dishes."

Becky turned and ran out. Seconds later, Emma heard her footsteps clomping on the stairs. She turned and dipped her hands in the hot dishwater.

"You're so good with them." Sam got up and came to stand behind her.

Emma tensed. He was too close. The scent of leather - and Sam - washed over her, and heat pooled in her belly.