The Rancher's Redemption

“Before I agree to anything, we have to run this by the whole family,” Adam said firmly. “It’s only fair to hear what everyone has to say.”

Leanne smiled at him and then at Jeff. “I think that’s a great idea. We can do it after dinner tomorrow evening.”

Adam’s father grumbled under his breath, but reluctantly agreed to their request. He wandered off to get another beer, leaving Adam alone with Leanne.

“Just so you know, you are all mentioned in my will, Adam. None of your siblings will ever be short of money, or not have the ability to buy a home.”

“You must’ve done pretty well for yourself in New York,” Adam replied.

Leanne chuckled. “Well, to be honest, after I got married again I didn’t do much other than manage Declan’s family trust fund and sit on a lot of fancy boards.”

“Family trust?”

“Yes.” She held his gaze. “Which is why you don’t have to worry.”

“Won’t all that money go to your daughter and to any other kids he might have?”

“Most of it will go to Eileen and her half sister, but there’s plenty left over. When I met Declan he was volunteering at the soup kitchen Patrick and I helped out in. I had no idea who he was, or what he did for a living. I just thought he was a really decent guy.” She sighed. “His son from his first marriage had developed a drug problem and despite all their efforts ended up on the streets. He died of an overdose at twenty-three, which was why Declan was always willing to put his money, and his time, into helping the homeless.”

“He sounds like a good guy.” Slightly ashamed of his cynicism, Adam attempted to make things right again.

“He was the best man I’ve ever met.” Leanne’s smile faltered. “I loved him very much.” She busied herself finding a tissue in her purse. “All I’m trying to say is that you shouldn’t feel bad about taking on the ranch.”

“I decided not to block the sale of the Cortez ranch. Rio Martinez is going to buy it.” Adam tried to offer her something personal in return.

“It must have been hard for you to let it go,” she said gently. “I kept all kinds of things from our ranch for years until it dawned on me that all my memories, all that really mattered, were branded deep in my heart and in my head.” She pressed her fist to her chest. “Rae somehow managed to get my brother’s address, and send me pictures of you all growing up. Even though I wasn’t there, I at least got to see a glimpse of you.”

“I wish—” Impulsively, Adam leaned forward and then stopped talking as his dad rejoined them. He stood up instead. “Look, I’ve got to go. I’ll see you both later.”

“Off to see Lizzie?” His dad winked at him and Adam wanted to die. “She’s a lovely girl. You should ask her up to the ranch, let her stay the night. I wouldn’t mind.”

“Dad . . .” Adam knew he sounded like a scandalized teen, but he couldn’t help himself. “Knock it off, okay?”

His dad waggled his eyebrows and sat down next to Leanne. “You never know who you’ll meet in our kitchen in the middle of the night these days.”

“Jeff Miller!” Leanne nudged him in the side. “Adam’s right. Knock it off.”

As his parents laughed their asses off, Adam was already halfway out the door and he wasn’t looking back.

Chapter Twenty

Lizzie walked into Henry’s office and smiled at Chloe. “Is he in?”

“Yes, and he’s expecting you.”

Lizzie went through into the rear office and was brought up short by the sight of Miranda conversing amicably with Henry.

“Hi!” She stayed by the door. “Do you want me to wait outside?”

“No, come in!” Henry waved her forward. “Mrs. Smith has something she wishes to say to you.”

“Okay.” Lizzie came in and sat down, her gaze fixed on Miranda who was smiling at her. “What’s up?”

“I wanted to have one last chat with you before it all becomes official,” Miranda said.

Lizzie didn’t reply, and waited for Miranda to continue.