Austin glanced at Mina. “I happened to ask Yancy if he knew of a vacancy coming up at the bank. He told me he was leaving to go back to his hometown but hadn’t mentioned it to anyone. Listen, if I’d known how happy it was going to make Mina, I’d have paid the man to leave.”
Will grinned. “Sure perked up Lily. My parents had just retired and agreed to move with us. What a job it was to sell two houses and decide what to get rid of and what to keep. We were sure lucky to find buyers for each house.”
Bert clapped Will on the shoulder. “Well, you’re here now and that’s what’s important.”
Austin gestured to the wagon. “Bert brought the wagon for your luggage but it doesn’t look as if you brought much.”
That’s when Mina noticed there were only three valises and a couple of suitcases waiting on the boardwalk in front of the stage depot.
Will shrugged. “We had so much between both couples that we’re having a freighter bring the rest from where we got off the train in Millsap.”
Austin winked at Mina. “Imagine that. They didn’t bring all they owned with them.”
Mina elbowed him gently. “He still teases me about the number of trunks I brought. Everything is being used, though.”
Olivia said, “We didn’t have a choice. There was barely room on the stage for us. I’m sure you noticed that two men had to ride on the stage roof.”
The four men in their group quickly loaded the luggage into the wagon.
Mina hugged her sister again. “You ride with me so I have a chance to talk to you at least a little. Cindy and Bert’s home is only a few blocks.”
Will helped Lily into the buggy and handed Faye to her. “I’ll help with the wagon. Darla and Billy can ride with me and Danny with Mama and Papa.”
Mina called, “Thank you, Will. We’ll see you in a few minutes.”
Having her sister and young niece in the buggy made Mina overly cautious. “I’m so happy you’re here. I’ve missed you so much.”
Lily appeared ready to cry. “I really was depressed, especially close to time for Faye to be born. You were there for the others. I wondered if I’d ever see you again. Then, when your baby was born, I wasn’t there for you.”
Mina pulled up at in front of the Kennedy home. “I was so glad when the opening at the bank came up and Bert wired you. This is a dream come true.”
“I guess you won’t be mad at me if I tell you I’m the one who wrote that Lovelorn column that Cindy sent you. I also wrote her to be on the lookout in case it was answered.”
“Lily, did you? The Lovelorn’s advice gave me the gumption to come west and see Cindy.”
“I counted on Cindy seeing it if my letter was answered. I’m so grateful now. I know she’s always read that type of column and would be especially vigilant after my request. You know we wanted the best for you.”
“You plotted well. No wonder the newspaper clipping sounded as if I could have written it. You tailored it to me.”
Lily giggled. “I sure did.” Her eyes widened. “Oh, my, this is Cindy’s home? It’s huge, but we’re sure to fill the place.”
“You’ll love staying with them. You remember how Cindy loved to entertain. She’s even better at it now.” She set the brake and looped the reins around it.
“I’m so impressed you can handle this buggy by yourself.”
“Austin rode on the wagon so you and I could be alone. I’ll be glad when you come to the ranch.”
Will and Austin hurried over to help them down and they went inside.
The laughter and chatter thrilled Mina. Her family was together at long last. She wanted to shout for joy. She smiled at the thought that she’d have to shout to be heard.
Austin went upstairs to get Chip. She loved seeing him with their son. He always beamed with pride and love when he held Chip.
They visited for a couple of hours after Cindy gave the newcomers a tour of the house.
Mrs. Brown served dinner a little early.
Lily and Olivia appeared exhausted. Mina imagined the men were, too. When dinner was over, Mina and Austin said their goodbyes. Austin carried Chip to the buggy.
Bert hurried from the house. “Hey, Austin, I’ll hold Chip while you help Mina into the buggy. Be careful on the way home.”
He handed Chip to Mina when she was seated. “Don’t forget the party on Friday evening.”
Austin released the brake. “We would never willingly miss one of your parties.” He snapped the reins and they headed home.
Mina cradled Chip to her. “He must have tired himself out playing with the twins.”
Austin looked at the sky. “Nice night. Lots of stars on display just for you.”
“I love riding on evenings like this. I love going anywhere with you.”
“I hope so. I’d be a mess without you, my love.”
“Oh, Austin, I can’t imagine being without you. We have a magnificent life at the ranch. Now that Lily and her family are going to be in Palo Pinto, I have everything I’ve ever wanted.”
He glanced at her. “Everything?”
“Well, I’d like another couple of children. In fact, I believe our second is, as some say, in the oven.”
He pulled on the reins and they stopped. “You’ve made me the happiest man alive. Now I have everything I ever wanted.” He pulled her into his arms, careful he didn’t crush
