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Reunited In The Rockies
Mindy Obenhaus


A fresh start…and an old love reignited? A Rocky Mountain Heroes romance For widow Kayla Bradshaw, restoring a historic Colorado hotel means a better life for her and her soon-to-arrive baby. But she needs construction help from Jude Stephens, the love she lost through a misunderstanding. Working with Kayla, the police officer finds himself forgiving her—and longing to rebuild her shattered confidence. But can they trust each other enough to forge a future together?







A fresh start...and an old love reignited?

A Rocky Mountain Heroes romance

For widow Kayla Bradshaw, restoring a historic Colorado hotel means a better life for her and her soon-to-arrive baby. But she needs construction help from Jude Stephens, the love she lost through a misunderstanding. Working with Kayla, the police officer finds himself forgiving her—and longing to rebuild her shattered confidence. But can they trust each other enough to forge a future together?


It took MINDY OBENHAUS forty years to figure out what she wanted to do when she grew up. But once God called her to write, she never looked back. She’s passionate about touching readers with biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. Mindy lives in Texas with her husband and kids. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking and spending time with her grandchildren. Find more at mindyobenhaus.com (http://mindyobenhaus.com).


Also By Mindy Obenhaus (#u56af6160-b028-594f-aefc-9d3a0fa42795)

Rocky Mountain Heroes

Their Ranch Reunion

The Deputy’s Holiday Family

Her Colorado Cowboy

Reunited in the Rockies

The Doctor’s Family Reunion

Rescuing the Texan’s Heart

A Father’s Second Chance

Falling for the Hometown Hero

Discover more at millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)


Reunited in the Rockies

Mindy Obenhaus






www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)


ISBN: 978-1-474-09732-1

REUNITED IN THE ROCKIES

© 2019 Melinda Obenhaus

Published in Great Britain 2019

by Mills & Boon, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF

All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form. This edition is published by arrangement with Harlequin Books S.A.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, locations and incidents are purely fictional and bear no relationship to any real life individuals, living or dead, or to any actual places, business establishments, locations, events or incidents. Any resemblance is entirely coincidental.

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www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)




Note to Readers (#u56af6160-b028-594f-aefc-9d3a0fa42795)


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“Kayla? Are you okay?”

Jude quickly moved to her side. Had her passing out done something to the baby?

She faced him, her chestnut eyes suddenly alight. “I think I just felt the baby move.” She placed her other hand beside the first, her smile growing wide. “There it is again.”

Kayla reached for Jude’s hand and pressed it against her protruding belly. “Do you feel it?”

He hesitated at first, wanting to pull away, but not wanting to hurt her feelings. Then he felt it. The slightest kick beneath his fingers.

His own eyes widened. “You might have a punter in there.”

She set her hand next to his. “Or a soccer player.”

Looking into Kayla’s eyes, Jude wasn’t sure he’d ever experienced a more precious moment in his life. And as he watched her, one thing became perfectly clear.

He would do everything in his power to protect Kayla and her baby.


Dear Reader (#u56af6160-b028-594f-aefc-9d3a0fa42795),

As I contemplated Jude, the fourth brother in my Rocky Mountain Heroes series, I knew he’d had his heart broken by a lost love and that he still carried a torch for that woman. But imagine coming face-to-face with that person again, only to discover that she’s pregnant! And thus began Jude’s journey.

The power of love as God intended it—patient, kind, protective, trusting, hopeful and persevering—is hard to resist. Having been wounded both emotionally and physically in the name of love, Kayla had to rediscover love the way God meant it to be. And Jude was more than happy to show her.

I hope you enjoyed this story as much as I did. I like watching people fall in love, but there was something special about this couple. Perhaps it was the desire to see Kayla find her way home to the kind of love she so deserved.

The next and final story in this series belongs to Daniel. And I have a feeling the youngest Stephens brother’s tale is going to pack the biggest punch yet.

Until then, I would love to hear from you. You can contact me via my website, mindyobenhaus.com (http://mindyobenhaus.com), or you can snail-mail me c/o Love Inspired Books, 195 Broadway, 24th Floor, New York, NY 10007.

See you next time,

Mindy


Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

—1 Corinthians 13:7


For Your glory, Lord.


Acknowledgments (#u56af6160-b028-594f-aefc-9d3a0fa42795)

To Cheryl Leyendecker, thank you for your friendship and enduring countless questions about cattle ranching.

To Betty Wolfe, thanks for putting up with me.

To Richard, the best support system a girl could ask for.


Contents

Cover (#u59212ba9-a46d-50f5-a033-8049b8a438bd)

Back Cover Text (#ufd60e764-028d-504f-b6e8-fa84db1bb059)

About the Author (#uea2803f8-b868-5ae6-8ad2-0e42f287094a)

Booklist (#u77a73d4e-9830-59c7-b6d5-358261e51741)

Title Page (#ua2e928cf-c130-5ceb-b7cd-f4725864ad28)

Copyright (#ud07bf733-5682-5025-8bb9-36464f507772)

Note to Readers

Introduction (#u4a50a2c2-1105-565f-81dc-6e37d4c535ea)

Dear Reader (#u633ff4b6-795b-5501-b872-d7c0a3b2a17c)

Bible Verse (#ufca0f5e3-3101-5e5b-8efc-6751f4492c7b)

Dedication (#u76b40254-c996-5784-8db5-344390020c60)

Acknowledgments (#u01b87d86-96d1-563a-b15c-fb999c2c8b5d)

Chapter One (#u937a88a9-6f6a-5ec1-8315-aa7e3ddda758)

Chapter Two (#ucf22e597-402b-51f1-8935-a1a7fa0235fa)

Chapter Three (#u13529de9-8179-5829-b1fb-643f16eaad65)

Chapter Four (#u3d55d8b2-ee92-5d8f-b45e-6c2e6d5c9f02)

Chapter Five (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Six (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Seven (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Eight (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Nine (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Ten (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Eleven (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Twelve (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Thirteen (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Fourteen (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Fifteen (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Sixteen (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Seventeen (#litres_trial_promo)

Chapter Eighteen (#litres_trial_promo)

Extract (#litres_trial_promo)

About the Publisher (#litres_trial_promo)




Chapter One (#u56af6160-b028-594f-aefc-9d3a0fa42795)


Twenty-four hours ago, Jude Stephens had his life figured out.

Then his father started talking about retirement, and he clearly viewed Jude as the heir apparent to the business he’d spent decades building.

Hands clutched around the steering wheel of his police SUV, Jude made another pass down Ouray, Colorado’s Main Street, looking for anything out of place among the rows of quaint Victorian-era buildings. He was honored that his father thought so highly of him that he was willing to entrust him with the business he’d started with nothing more than a dream and a small patch of land. Problem was, Jude did not want to be a cattle rancher.

Clouds obscured the sun, spoiling what should have been a beautiful October day. Helping his father out was one thing; he’d done it all his life. But the man had four other sons. Why not turn the business over to one of them?

Jude drummed his fingers on the dash. Because he was the one Dad counted on while his brothers were out chasing their dreams.

He shook his head. Just because he was the only brother who had never left Ouray didn’t mean he didn’t have dreams, too. If only his father would recognize his woodworking for the viable business it was instead of just a hobby. Jude was passionate about the work he was doing, and his custom and reproduction millwork was already providing him with more income than his job as a police officer. He’d even talked with the chief about his desire to resign. He was simply waiting until they hired another officer. Then he’d be free to focus on his business and take it to the next level.

But first he’d have to find a way to tell Clint Stephens he wanted no part of his cattle operation. And with the man getting older, that wasn’t going to be easy. That bout of pneumonia he’d had last year had everyone concerned.

Passing the hot springs pool, he roughed a hand over his face. Couldn’t his father just sell off the cows and leave Jude to follow his own path? Dad knew all about dreams, after all. He’d chased his own all those years ago when he and Mama first started Abundant Blessings Ranch. Now, Jude’s oldest brother, Noah, had built a successful rodeo school on the land, and Jude longed to do the same with his business. All he needed was a bigger shop. Something he was more than capable of paying for.

So when are you planning to tell the man?

Good question. He should have said something about his plans to resign after talking to the chief. But he hadn’t. Now he was faced with the very real threat of disappointing his dad. And just the thought of that nearly killed him. The last thing he wanted was to destroy the good relationship they had.

He straightened in his seat. Lately he’d been doing a fair amount of work for a builder in Telluride. Maybe that would help his father understand. Unfortunately, the majority of his sales were done online, and that was something his father couldn’t comprehend, no matter how many times a week that big brown shipping truck came rolling up the drive.

He wound past the sparsely populated RV park that had been bursting at the seams only a couple of months ago. Perhaps Noah would have some advice. Despite their eleven-year age difference, he and his eldest brother were quite close. Close enough that Noah had asked him to be his best man.

Jamming his fingers through his hair, Jude released a frustrated sigh. He was going to drive himself crazy if he kept dwelling on his father. He needed to think about something else. Like the meeting with his soon-to-be sister-in-law, Lily. He didn’t have a clue as to why she’d asked him to meet her at the old Congress Hotel after work. The historic building had been closed for years and fallen into disrepair. Was Lily thinking about buying it? Restoring it, perhaps? If anyone could afford to do that, it was her. And in the right hands, the once grand structure definitely had the potential to be magnificent yet again.

He eased into Rotary Park to make his usual turnaround, noting a blue pickup truck near the ice rink. Not out of the ordinary. However, the woman standing beside the vehicle, staring at a flat tire, was a call to action.

Her back was to him as he pulled up beside her. Silky dark brown hair fell to her waist, reminding him of someone he once knew. Someone he’d never forget.

Killing the engine, he continued to watch her. Even her stance was familiar. The way she stood with her hands perched on the backside of her hips.

His heart raced. What if it was her?

You wish.

He reached for the door handle. His mind was all kinds of messed up today. As if Kayla would suddenly show up in Ouray after seven years.

The woman glanced over her shoulder as he stepped onto the gravel, though not long enough to give him a good look.

“I see you’re having a problem.” He rounded the front end of his vehicle, glimpsing her pancaked back tire. “May I assist you?”

Slowly she turned, and his world shifted as though he’d been transported back in time to the best summer of his life. The summer he fell in love for the first and only time.

“Hello, Jude.” The sweetness of her voice washed over him, along with more memories and regrets than he cared to count.

“Kayla?” He visually traced the face that still lived in his mind. All these years, he’d wondered what had happened. He only knew that one day they were talking about seeing each other again, and then the next there was nothing. She had never even returned his calls or texts. “What are you doing here?”

She hesitated a moment, seemingly transfixed on the tire. “My friend is getting married.” Her chestnut eyes finally met his. Gorgeous eyes he’d lost himself in thousands of times. “I’m Lily’s matron of honor.”

“Lily?” Wait, Noah’s Lily? Shifting his weight from one booted foot to the other, he scratched his head. “Lily Davis?”

A breeze hissed through the towering conifers.

“Yes.” Kayla casually tucked her hair behind her ear, the reappearing sun highlighting the gold band on her left hand.

His gut tightened as unwanted disappointment stole through him. After all these years, he shouldn’t care that Kayla was married. Not when she was the one who’d decided to end their relationship without even bothering to let him know. No, he shouldn’t care.

Unfortunately, he did. A fact that annoyed him more than he cared to admit.

Her hand fell to her stomach. Only then did he notice the bump beneath her fitted T-shirt.

Great. The woman who still haunted his dreams was not only married but pregnant. And she was his future sister-in-law’s best friend. The one he’d be forced to spend who knows how much time with in the coming days before walking her down the aisle a week from tomorrow.

He should have stayed in bed this morning. “You and Lily are friends?”

“Yes. We met back in Denver a few years ago.”

“You live in Denver?” When he’d known her, she’d been enjoying a nomadic lifestyle with her parents. Always roaming about the country, never staying put for more than six months. They were headed to Denver the last time he and Kayla spoke. Had she been there all this time?

“After my father died, I decided it was time to settle down.”

She couldn’t have done that in Ouray? “I’m sorry for your loss.”

Nodding, she took a step back. “Look, I’m sorry for creating such an awkward situation. I knew Noah was your brother, yet I never said anything to Lily about you and me. If I had, she could have at least prepared you.”

True. And he could have relegated his best man duties to one of his brothers while he hightailed it out of town. “No big deal.” He shrugged. “I’m just kind of surprised you’re here so early. I mean, the wedding isn’t for another week.”

“I wanted to be here to help Lily with some of the preparations.” Her hands went to her hips again as her gaze traveled from the redstone cliffs that hugged the back of the park to Mount Hayden’s peak at the opposite end of town. “That and I needed a change of scenery.”

“Well, we’ve got plenty of that around here.” Though he had no business doing it, he found himself staring again. She was even more beautiful than he remembered. Yet while the hair and eyes were the same, something was different about Kayla. She seemed...troubled. Maybe it was just the awkwardness of the moment.

Shaking off the notion, he added, “But then, you already know that.”

She peered up at him through long lashes, sending his heart slamming into his ribs. “I wasn’t sure if you were still in Ouray.”

Wasn’t sure? Kayla knew better than anyone that this was where he belonged. “It’s my home. Where my roots are.” And while that was the exact reason he could never leave, it was also what had prevented him from asking her to stay. Kayla needed to roam, meaning their relationship would have been doomed from the start and he would have ended up brokenhearted anyway.

Looking for an escape, he turned his attention to her tire. “I’ll get this taken care of so you can be on your way.”

“You always were the chivalrous one.” Her smile did strange things to him. Had him feeling things he had no business feeling for a married woman. Things that were going to make this next week excruciatingly long.

* * *

Kayla Bradshaw had known that agreeing to be in Lily’s wedding could mean coming face-to-face with the first man she ever loved. Something that seemed relatively benign, until now.

Jude still had that slightly dangerous look about him. Those piercing dark eyes that seemed to see right through her. To read her thoughts and know her heart. His dark hair had a military cut with close-cropped sides and the longer top brushed to one side. But, oh, that smile...

Pulling out of the park with a fresh tire, she gave herself a stern shake. It wasn’t like her to be so affected. Then again, a lot of things were different with her lately. Chalk it up to pregnancy. Or stress. After all, when her husband died five months ago in a single-car rollover, she hadn’t even known she was pregnant.

She continued into the old mining town, eyeing the mountains that enveloped Ouray. She hoped God forgave her for the relief she felt following Shane’s death.

If only she’d known he was an alcoholic before they married. He was a different man when he drank.

After his death, she’d wanted nothing more than a do-over. A fresh start for her and her baby. And while she had yet to find that perfect place to begin anew, Lily had done her best to fill in the gap.

When Kayla decided to sell the house she’d shared with Shane, Lily had encouraged her to move into her place and house-sit while she and her kids spent the summer in Ouray. Four months later, she was still there.

Kayla puffed out a laugh. She never would have imagined that her friend would decide to stay in Ouray, let alone fall in love with the brother of the man who’d captured Kayla’s heart seven years ago and given her a glimpse of how good life could really be.

She was surprised, if not a little disappointed, to see that Jude was a police officer, though. With his woodworking talents and love for historic buildings, she’d thought for sure he’d follow his passion.

Slowing her speed as she entered town, she tried to ignore the question that had been plaguing her brain. But like a nasty mosquito bite, it refused to be ignored. Was Jude married?

Not that it mattered. Their time together was water under the bridge. He’d made that clear during their last phone conversation. He’d said he was done. Then he’d hung up. And she never had the opportunity to talk to him again.

She had no doubt Jude assumed she was married, though. The way his gaze moved from her left hand to her baby bump.

Taking in Ouray’s Main Street, she was happy to see not all that much had changed. Sure, the names on some of the businesses were different, the paint colors may have been altered, but the essence of the town remained the same. Warm, inviting... The kind of place she’d longed for her entire life. A place she could not only call home, but where she felt at home.

Looking back, she wished she’d had the guts to tell her parents to leave Ouray without her. But she’d been too immature.

In Denver, though, she’d finally put her foot down, thinking that staying there would satisfy her desire. No more traveling around the country in an RV. Then she’d married and Shane owned a house. Something she’d never had. Yet her longing was far from fulfilled, and her dream turned into a nightmare.

If only she’d made better choices. If only—

“Would you stop thinking about Jude already?” Pounding her fist against the steering wheel, she made a left turn onto one of the side streets. “You’re here for Lily, not to relive seven-year-old might-have-beens.” She wasn’t that carefree young woman Jude had once known. Her two years with Shane had changed her. Made her more cautious and unable to trust her own judgment.

A right turn one block later had her searching for the bed-and-breakfast where she would be staying. According to Lily, Granger House Inn was a historic home owned by another of Jude’s four brothers and his wife. Fortunately, she’d never met this brother, so there’d be no need for explanations. Yet.

She eased her truck to a stop in front of an impressive sea-foam-green Victorian home with loads of intricate millwork and a gracious front porch. Since Lily’s SUV was parked in the drive, this had to be the place.

Kayla turned off the ignition, stepped out of her vehicle and stretched as she drew in a deep breath of mountain air. The clouds had disappeared, leaving a beautiful autumn day in their wake.

She moved up the walk, onto the porch and rang the bell.

A few moments later, Lily swung the antique-oak-and-leaded-glass door wide. Her long reddish-blond hair was pulled back in a ponytail and her smile was wide. “Kayla!” She hugged her. “I’m so glad you’re here.”

“Me, too.” It did her heart good to see her friend so happy. In recent years, Lily had endured some tough times. Yet, through it all, she’d clung to her faith. And now she’d found a man who shared that faith and recognized Lily for the special woman she was.

Kayla could only hope to be so fortunate.

Lily released her. “Where’s your stuff?”

“In the truck.”

“Well, let’s get you unpacked because I have something I can’t wait to show you.”

“Such as?” Kayla watched her friend as they started off the porch.

“You’ll have to wait and see.”

When they returned with her things, another woman stood just inside the door, holding a tiny baby.

“Look who’s finally awake.” Lily grinned at the child, setting Kayla’s suitcase on the wooden floor. “Kayla, this is Carly, my soon-to-be sister-in-law.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Kayla.” The woman had blond curls and smiled warmly, her countenance one of contentment.

“And this little guy here—” Lily reached for the babe’s fisted hand “—is Lucas.”

Moving closer, Kayla couldn’t stop staring. From his downy dark hair to his barely there nose and slow-motion movements... “He’s so little. How old is he?”

“Five weeks tomorrow,” said Carly.

Kayla could hardly believe that in only four short months, she’d be holding her own baby.

“When are you due?” Carly noted her belly.

“February.”

“Do you know what you’re having?”

“No, she does not.” Lily frowned. “And the suspense is killing me.”

Clearing her throat, Kayla regarded her friend. “As a very wise person recently said to me, you’ll just have to wait and see.”

“Fine.” Lily rolled her green eyes and reached for the suitcase. “Come on, I’ll show you your room.” She started for the stairs that swept up one side of the parlor.

“Kayla, I put you in the Hayden Room,” Carly called after them from the parlor below. “Not only does it have a great view, it’s the farthest away from our room down here, so you shouldn’t hear the baby.”

“I’m sure it’ll be perfect. Although, I guess I should get used to hearing a baby’s cry.” She’d be alone, after all. A truth she sometimes found rather terrifying.

“Ah, don’t rush it.” The blonde looked lovingly at her child, then back to Kayla. “Enjoy the uninterrupted sleep while you can.”

Entering the room at the end of the hall, Lily set the suitcase on the plush gray carpet. “What do you think?”

Kayla moved behind her. “This is gorgeous.” From the magnificent view through antique glass to the four-poster queen bed with luxurious bedding...

“Check out the claw-foot tub in the bathroom.” Lily nodded in the general direction.

Dropping her hanging clothes and overnight case onto the antique settee, Kayla hurried into the adjoining bathroom with its black-and-white mosaic floor, white beadboard wainscoting and, yes, a claw-foot tub.

“Lily, I may never want to leave this place.”

Her friend appeared in the doorway. “Are you referring to your room or Ouray?”

“My room. Though Ouray is pretty inviting, too.”

“I’m glad to hear you say that.” Turning, a grinning Lily moved back into the bedroom.

As if Kayla wouldn’t follow. “Why?”

Lily crossed to the clothes Kayla had left on the settee and picked them up. “Because I have a proposition for you.” She opened the door of the small closet and hung them on the rod.

“What kind of proposition?” Kayla eased onto the side of the bed, her fingers digging into the softness.

“Are you familiar with the old Congress Hotel?”

“White wooden structure on the other side of town?”

“That’s the one.”

“I think I went inside it once. As I recall, it had some pretty cool features.”

“Yes, it does.” Lily met her gaze. “Which is only part of the reason I bought it.”

Kayla’s eyes went wide. “You bought it? What kind of shape is it in? I mean, it wasn’t that great seven years ago.”

“And it’s been closed up for at least the last five, so I’m sure it’s even worse than you remember.”

“Yet you bought it?”

“Kayla, I have fallen in love with Ouray. It’s my home. And that hotel is a part of this town’s history. A history that needs to be preserved for future generations. I want to restore it to its former glory.”

“You’re going to restore it?” While Kayla had no doubt that Lily could afford such a venture, she couldn’t quite picture her wealthy friend wielding a hammer, let alone refinishing floors.

“Not me personally. I’m going to hire someone to do the work.”

“Okay, so what does that have to do with me? You want me to help you find a general contractor?”

“Sort of.” Looking rather sheepish, Lily sat down next to her. “I’d like you to be that contractor.”

“Lily, a restoration like that could take months. Maybe years.”

“I’m aware of that. And I know the baby is coming and everything, but you know historical renovations better than anyone. I mean, you’ve been doing them for years.”

“Lily, I’ve never been a general contractor before.”

“You didn’t have the title, but you certainly had all the duties. That’s why you always talked about starting your own business.” Lily lifted a shoulder. “Even contemplated doing it somewhere other than Denver.”

Lily was the only person in this world Kayla would have shared that with.

“This could give you that fresh start you’ve been looking for. An opportunity to view life from a different angle. I mean, just look at how Ouray has changed my life.”

It all sounded wonderful. Too good to be true. But after seeing Jude...

Kayla eyed her friend. “You’ve put a lot of thought into this, haven’t you?”

The corners of Lily’s mouth lifted. “Been running this conversation through my head for weeks.”

“Seriously? You have a wedding to plan and you’re dwelling on a conversation with me?”

“I wouldn’t call it dwelling. More like carefully calculating so I’m sure to play up all the right points.”

Where would she be if God hadn’t brought this woman into her life? She nudged Lily with her elbow. “Have I ever told you how much I love you?”

“Sweetie, you’re the sister I never had.”

“If that’s the case, then you’re the annoying sister.”

“A distinction I will wear proudly.” Lily paused, her expression turning serious. “So, what do you say?”

“Let me see the place first. After I put my feet up for a few and grab a snack.”

“You do look a little tired.” Bottom lip pooched out, Lily reached for her hand. “And here I am, pushing you to do all sorts of stuff. I’m sorry.”

Kayla set her free hand atop Lily’s. “You’re just excited, that’s all.”

“Still, that doesn’t give me the right to be rude.” Her friend stood. “You take all the time you need. Though I should tell you that Carly just made an apple crisp that is to die for.”

“Ah, that’s what I smelled downstairs. Made my stomach growl.”

“That happens when you’re eating for two.” Lily moved toward the door. “I’ll see you in a bit.” She reached for the knob and started to pull it closed.

“Lily?” Kayla rested her back against the plethora of pillows and stretched her legs out on the bed.

“Yes?”

She grabbed a throw pillow, hugging it against her chest. “Don’t expect me to give you an answer right away. I’ll have to think on this one awhile.”

Lily grinned. “I know you will. And I’ll be praying that God will lead us both to the right decision.”




Chapter Two (#u56af6160-b028-594f-aefc-9d3a0fa42795)


Jude eased his truck into the parking spot next to Lily’s SUV, still trying to get Kayla out of his mind. Between last night’s conversation with his father and seeing her today, he was wound up tighter than a two-dollar watch.

God, I sure wish I knew what You’re trying to teach me. Because whatever it was, he’d just as soon learn it and move on.

This might be a good night to lock himself in his shop and sort through his thoughts while he turned some spindles. That always seemed to relax him.

Killing the engine, he stared at the old Congress Hotel. The three-story wooden structure that had once been labeled “the finest on the Western Slope” seemed to be disintegrating before his eyes. The white paint was either peeling or completely gone, the open veranda on the second floor that extended over the sidewalk sagged and much of the trim appeared damaged by the elements and countless years of neglect. He hated to see it. Though its restoration would be a major undertaking for anyone.

Noting that one of the two doors on the front of the building stood open, he climbed out, eager to learn what Lily was up to.

Still wearing his uniform—a black tactical shirt and gray cargo pants—he continued across the sidewalk and up the concrete steps until he stood on the vintage wooden floors that graced the hotel’s lobby. With its tin ceiling and antique furnishings, it felt as though he’d stepped into another place in time.

The sun had already dipped behind Twin Peaks along the town’s western edge, and the remaining daylight struggled to make its way through the hazy stained-glass-rimmed windows along the front.

“Lily?” He glanced up the staircase to his left before continuing past the ornately carved registration desk. Hearing sounds coming from the dining room, he moved in that direction.

“Lil—” The sight of Kayla standing on a ladder stopped him in his tracks and sent his mind racing back to their first meeting. They’d both been hired by a local contractor to help with the restoration of one of the largest Victorian homes in town. She’d been standing on a ladder that day, too. And he’d been smitten the first moment he saw her.

Hauling his traitorous mind back to the present, he cleared his throat. “Do you think it’s wise for you to be up there in your condition?”

She shot him an annoyed look before returning her focus to the peeling wallpaper. “Trust me, I was doing this long before I was in this condition.”

“True, but your center of equilibrium is different now. What if you were to fall? What would your husband say?”

Using what looked like a pocketknife, she carefully pried another sliver of paper away from the plaster. “I doubt he’d care.”

Confused, he took a step closer and set a hand on the ladder, just in case. “Why do you say that?”

She closed the knife, tucked it into the pocket of her jeans and stepped down. “Because he’s dead.”

He stood there, blinking, feeling as though someone had just hit him with a left hook. Her husband was dead? He glanced at her swollen belly. Leaving Kayla to raise their child alone. “I—I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be.” She collapsed the ladder and leaned it against the wall. “My baby and I are doing just fine.”

“Sorry, I took so long.” Lily breezed into the room then, stirring up the stale air. “Jude, I’m glad you’re here.” She looked from him to her friend. “Kayla, this is Noah’s brother Jude. He specializes in historic millwork reproduction.”

He waited to see what Kayla would do. Would she tell Lily that they already knew each other? That they’d fallen in love? Or at least he had. Something that, apparently, hadn’t been reciprocated.

Kayla’s gaze drifted to his. “Historic millwork?” He thought he saw a hint of a smile. “So, you’re not just a police officer.” Why did that seem to please her? And why did her reaction bolster him?

“No, he is not,” Lily responded before he had a chance. “I’ve seen his work, and he’s quite talented. He can replicate almost anything, and you would never know it wasn’t an original.” Turning, she sent him a grin. “Which is why I asked you to meet me here.”

He shoved his hands into the pockets of his cargo pants. “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t curious.”

“I want to restore this building. The hotel, restaurant, perhaps—” she strode to the center of the room “—and I can just envision this dining room being used for wedding receptions and parties...”

His suspicions had been right. Scanning the decrepit dining room with its water-stained wallpaper and warped wooden floorboards, he could see Lily’s vision, but—

“You’re looking at a lot of work, Lily, and that’s going to translate to money.” He crossed to stand beside her. “This room alone looks as though it has a fair amount of water damage. I don’t know where the water came from, but if it was overhead, then the damage is likely worse on the two upper floors.”

She eyed him matter-of-factly. “I’ve already seen it. And yes, it is. But if someone doesn’t come in here and do something soon, things will continue to deteriorate, and it’ll cost even more.” She sent him a pleading look. “Jude, Ouray has blessed me in so many ways. If I can help save a part of its history, then I don’t care what it costs.”

He smiled down at the likable woman who had more money than he could ever fathom. “Even if you weren’t marrying my brother, there’s no way I could say no to that. Just tell me what you want me to do.”

“There’s lot of damaged millwork throughout the building. I’d like you to replicate it and oversee the installation.”

“Sure, I can do that. Who’s your contractor?”

“I’m not certain yet.” Lily strolled toward Kayla. “However, my sweet friend here has worked as a house flipper for a number of years.”

“I work for a house flipper.” Kayla was quick to correct.

“He purchases the homes, but you’re the one who oversees all of his projects. And you do a fair amount of the work yourself.” Taking Kayla by the arm, Lily again faced Jude. “Since her specialty is historic homes, I’m hoping she’ll agree to act as general contractor for me.”

Whoa, what? Kayla as general contractor? That meant they’d be working together again. And while he trusted Lily’s judgment...

He scraped his boot across the worn floorboards. Man, why had he been so quick to say yes?

His only hope now was that Kayla would say no. Because from the sound of things, she already had a job. Sure, she and Lily were friends, but why would she give up that job and move to Ouray for one project? Especially when she was pregnant.

His gaze drifted across the room to the dark-haired beauty. Then again, she was used to a more itinerant lifestyle. Perhaps, now that her husband was gone, she’d decided she’d been in one place for too long.

Pink tinged Kayla’s cheeks. “Lily, I told you I’d think about it.”

“I know you did. So let’s go have a look at the rest of the place.” Lily motioned for them to follow her as she started back into the lobby. “Perhaps that will help convince you.”

Or scare her away.

They were almost to the stairway when Lily’s phone rang. She looked at the screen. “Sorry, guys, I need to take this.” Aiming for the front door, she added, “I shouldn’t be long.”

A silent moment passed before Kayla turned to him. “I’m relieved to hear you’re still doing your woodworking.” She lifted a shoulder. “After seeing you at the park, I was afraid you’d given it up in favor of police work.”

“No way. That was just to tide me over until I could make a living with the woodworking. Now I’m planning on giving up the day job so I can devote all my time to millwork.” Why had he told her all that? Even if he wasn’t faced with the possibility of breaking his father’s heart, it was none of her business.

“Wow, that’s great.” She smiled. “I’ve often thought about starting my own flipping business. Only historic homes, though.” She absently smoothed a hand over her belly. “Of course, now I have to look at the bigger picture and think about how my decisions will affect others.”

He inched closer. “Speaking of decisions, you’re not really considering taking Lily up on her offer, are you?”

Her brow lifted. “Why shouldn’t I? There’s nothing tying me to Denver.”

He searched her dark eyes. So much for settling down. Evidently, the wanderer in her still couldn’t stand the thought of being stuck in one place for too long.

Good thing he hadn’t asked her to stay all those years ago. No matter how badly he’d wanted to.

“Or are you afraid the job might be too much for a woman in my condition?” Her words flew all over him.

Maybe he had stepped in it with that comment. Yet while his mother had raised him and his brothers to be gentlemen, she’d also been an example of just how capable women could be. Something Kayla knew good and well, having spent a fair amount of time with the woman.

Standing toe-to-toe with her, he said, “I think you know me better than that.” For a second he thought he saw her wince.

Then she perched her hands on the backs of her hips and glared up at him. “Do I?”

“You would if you’d stuck around.” Realizing what he’d said, he jammed a hand through his hair and turned away. He must be more stressed than he thought. He was talking like a crazy man.

Thankfully, Lily whisked past him. “We’re running out of daylight, so we need to hurry if we’re going to manage even a cursory look.”

As he followed the two women up the broad staircase, he couldn’t help wondering what he’d gotten himself into.

* * *

Kayla stared out the window of Lily’s SUV, eyeing the lights of Main Street on the way back to Granger House Inn. You would if you’d stuck around.

Again, Jude’s words played through her head, confusing her and messing with her already tired mind. Had he wanted her to stay all those years ago?

Her eyes briefly fell closed. Foolish. She’d given him every opportunity in the world to ask her to stay and he hadn’t. Despite all of her comments about loving Ouray and how it felt like a good place to call home, he’d let her drive away with her parents without so much as a wish that she would stay.

None of that mattered now anyway. He was the one who’d deemed their relationship over. She’d moved on with her life. Gotten married. She had a baby on the way, and Lily had offered her an incredible opportunity.

What was her problem then? Why was she finding it so difficult to say yes? Like she’d told Jude, there was nothing tying her to Denver. The house she’d shared with Shane had sold months ago, what little stuff she had was in storage and since she’d been living at Lily’s there was no lease to worry about. All she had was her job. One she was already considering leaving to start her own company. Throw in the fact that Ouray was the one place she’d always dreamed of settling down...

Except you’d dreamed of settling down with Jude.

She blew out a breath, fogging up the window. That was seven years ago. She’d been twenty-one and still traveling from place to place with her parents in an RV. Of course she’d wanted to settle down. She’d spent her entire life roaming. She’d wanted a place to call home. To make friendships that lasted more than six months and have the opportunity to fall in love and start a family.

Things she’d ultimately achieved in Denver. Aside from her friendship with Lily, though, her life wasn’t the fairy tale she’d envisioned. Instead, she’d found herself perpetually walking on eggshells, always hoping and praying Shane would come home sober. When he did, he could be the most charming person in the world. But if he didn’t...

Now she had a baby to think about. What if she made the wrong decision and messed up her child’s life the way she had hers?

“You’re awful quiet over there.” Lily glanced at her across the center console.

Darkness had fallen over Ouray, so Kayla couldn’t say she was taking in the view. “Just thinking.”

“In that case, I have something else for you to ponder.”

“As if I need more.” Twisting, she feigned annoyance.

“Sorry.” Lily stared straight ahead, her brow puckering. “That was my Realtor who called earlier.” Making a right turn, she glanced Kayla’s way. “We received a full-price offer on the house today.”

She straightened. “Full-price? That’s excellent.”

“It is.” Lily let go a sigh. “However, it also means that you’re going to have to find another place to live.”

“Lily, you were doing me a favor, remember?” And while Kayla had been looking, she had yet to find anything that felt like home. “We knew this was inevitable.”

“I know, but...” Her friend hesitated. “I’m not trying to pressure you or anything, but I should let you know that I’ve already spoken with Andrew and Carly and if you do decide to stay in Ouray, you can live in Livie’s House, the little folk Victorian next door to Granger House Inn. It belonged to Andrew and Jude’s grandmother, but now it’s used as an extension of the bed-and-breakfast. You’d have the whole house to yourself.”

She remembered that house. She and Jude used to stop by to play cards with his grandmother, a sweet lady who made some of the best chocolate chip cookies Kayla had ever tasted.

“I will take that into consideration.” Again, she stared outside. God, You’re trying to tell me something, aren’t You?

She was still wrestling with herself when they eased to a stop in front of Granger House Inn.

“Lily, there’s something I need to share with you.”

Unfastening her seat belt, her friend looked concerned. “What is it, sweetie?”

“You know how I told you about me and my parents spending time in Ouray?”

“How could I forget? Your glowing accounts were what made me decide to come here.”

“Well...” Kayla picked at her barely there fingernails. “What I failed to tell you is that, during those six months, I fell in love. With Jude Stephens.”

Lily’s jaw dropped. “You’re kidding me.”

She’d never seen her friend’s eyes so big. “I wish I were.”

The lights of the dashboard glowed as Lily turned in her leather seat. “That is crazy. I mean, what is the likelihood that... Wait, do you still love him?”

“Lily, I was married to another man.”

“Okay.” Lily brushed a stray hair away from her face. “Maybe love wasn’t the right word. But do you still have feelings for him?”

Kayla had feelings all right. A jumbled concoction of them, most of which were probably brought on by the child growing inside of her. She shrugged. “He was my first love, so, yeah, it was kind of exciting to see him again.”

“He’s not married, you know.” Lily grinned with what Kayla was sure was matchmaking glee. “How do you think he felt about seeing you?”

“That’s easy. Stunned.”

“Stunned?”

“Of course he was. I mean, we tried to stay in touch, but you know how that goes.” Especially when one person says they’re done and the other loses her phone, along with every contact she had stored in it. “He had no idea I was your matron of honor.” She shook her head. “And that’s my fault for not saying something to you as soon as you told me you were marrying Noah.”

“Wait, have you met Noah?”

“No, he was on the rodeo circuit when I lived here. And Andrew was living in Denver. The middle brother—”

“Matt?”

“Yeah, he wasn’t around either. But I spent a lot of time at their ranch, so I got to know Daniel and their mom and dad. I loved Mona.”

Lily’s countenance fell. “I hate to tell you this, Kayla, but she passed away a few years ago.”

Tears pricked the backs of Kayla’s eyes. Tilting her head upward, she tried to blink them away. Mona was the one person she was really looking forward to seeing again. Because if anyone could make sense of Kayla’s crazy life, it was Jude’s mother. “How?”

“Cancer.”

The same stupid disease that had taken her father. She pressed her back against the seat. “That stinks.”

“Yes, it does. Noah’s told me a lot about her. I wish I’d had the opportunity to meet her.”

Kayla rolled her head to stare at her friend. “She would have loved you, Lily.”

“You think so?”

“I know so. Mona loved everyone.”

Lily wrinkled her nose. “I suppose I should warn you that Clint has a girlfriend. Hillary Ward-Thompson. She’s very sweet.”

“How do the guys feel about that?” If there was one thing she knew for certain, it was that the Stephens’ boys were crazy about their mother.

“They’re okay with it. Probably because she and Clint were old friends and it’s been a very slow growing relationship. Noah says she’s good at keeping his father in line.”

They both chuckled.

“I seem to recall Clint being a bit of handful,” added Kayla.

Sobering, Lily said, “I know you have a lot of other things to consider, but is Jude part of the reason you’re having a hard time making a decision?”

“Honestly, I’m too tired to think. Plus, it’s only been, what, three, four hours since you sprang this on me? I thought we’d be talking about wedding stuff, not renovations.”

“Don’t worry, there will be plenty of wedding stuff.”

“I hope so, because I’m looking forward to all those girlie things. For now, though—” Kayla unhooked her seat belt “—I think I just need some dinner and a good night’s rest.” One that was, hopefully, not interrupted by a dangerously handsome police officer and images of what might have been.




Chapter Three (#u56af6160-b028-594f-aefc-9d3a0fa42795)


Jude breathed in the calming aroma of sawdust while the hum of his lathe provided the white noise that usually relaxed him. Tonight, though, he was neither calm nor relaxed.

He removed the freshly turned spindle from the machine, ran a hand over the smooth wood grain before setting it aside, then put another block of wood in its place. He needed to escape reality for a while and take some time to collect his thoughts. He hadn’t felt this torn, this discombobulated since...since the day his mother died.

He wished she was here now to listen and help him sort through the chaos banging around inside of him.

He had already made his decision to resign from the police department when his father approached him about taking over the cattle business. The man was nothing if not proud. Proud of his family and the business he’d worked hard to build. How could Jude tell him he wasn’t interested? Dad wasn’t getting any younger, after all. It was only natural he’d want to step aside, assured that his legacy would live on.

And then there was Kayla. Widowed, pregnant and back in Ouray for Noah’s wedding. Longer, if she agreed to take on Lily’s hotel project.

Shaking his head, he set the lathe to spinning. He quickly shaved off the corners of the wood with his roughing gouge, leaving him with a plain cylinder.

Perhaps what irked him the most was his reaction to seeing her. She was the one who’d broken off all contact with him, yet all he could think about were the good times they’d had when she was here. Working together by day, long talks at night. They’d been practically inseparable.

Some weeks, Kayla spent more time at the ranch than she did with her own parents. They’d shared their hopes and dreams, went to church together and had a mutual respect for Ouray’s history, particularly the architecture. Over 70 percent of the town’s Victorian-era structures were still in use today. Everything from Queen Anne style to Italianate to Colonial Revival, Craftsman and more. And during Kayla’s time here, the two of them had analyzed each and every one, verbally renovating those that had fallen into disrepair and noting the finer points of those that had been restored. Even one he’d thought would make the perfect house for the two of them to raise a family.

He swapped his gouge for a chisel. No, he’d never met anyone quite like Kayla, either before or since. He supposed that made her one of a kind. Problem with that was that every other woman paled in comparison.

What would he do if Kayla decided to stay? Was he man enough to work alongside her again, knowing they would never be anything more than friends? If they were even that after the way they butted heads today.

A sudden burst of cool evening air had him glancing at the door to see Noah coming toward him.

Nudging his cowboy hat back a notch, his brother surveyed the space. “Figured I’d find you here.” His gaze shifted to Jude, then the lathe. “You working or hiding?”

Jude slid his goggles to the top of his head. “You know what they say about killing two birds with one stone.”

“Who or what are you hiding from then?” Noah picked up a spindle and studied it.

“Dad.”

His brother paused. “What did the old man do now?”

“Has he said anything to you about retiring?”

Noah thought for a moment, then shook his head. “No, I don’t believe so.”

“You’re sure?”

“I think I would have remembered that. Why?”

The knot in Jude’s stomach tightened. Dad talked to Noah about everything. But if he hadn’t mentioned Jude taking over the cattle business, perhaps Jude shouldn’t bring it up either.

How was Jude going to dig his way out of this? “I was just curious, that’s all. He is getting older...”

“Old or not, Dad’s too ornery to retire.” Noah returned the spindle to the pile. “Besides, who’d run the ranch if he did?” His dark gaze narrowed on Jude. “Unless you’re wanting to take over.”

“No way. I—”

“Jude, I was hoping you’d be in here.”

He looked in the direction of the door to see Lily moving toward him with purposeful steps. A smile lit her face when she spotted Noah.

“Hi, honey.” Wading through a pile of wood chips, she pushed up on the toes of her boots and gave her fiancé a brief kiss. “Where are the kids?”

“Watching TV with Dad.” Their father had grown quite fond of Lily’s children, ten-year-old Colton and seven-year-old Piper. And like his other two nieces and nephew, they seemed to bring out the best in the old man.

She turned her attention back to Jude and let go a sigh, her petite shoulders sagging. “Kayla told me about the two of you. I hope you don’t think I was trying to pull one over on you. I had no idea you knew each other.”

“It’s all right, Lily.” He sent her a reassuring smile.

“Are you still going to be all right with everything? After all, seeing someone you cared about after such a long time can be quite a shock. And then with her being pregnant and all.”

“Whoa...time-out.” Noah formed a T with his hands. He looked at Lily. “Kayla is your matron of honor?”

“Yes.”

Still confused, Noah faced Jude. “And you know her?”

“Knew her. It was a long time ago.”

Lily nodded. “Seven years.” Her comment had Jude wondering what else Kayla had told her.

Noah crossed his arms over his chest. “Just how well did you know her?”

“Jude, we got a problem.” Dad blew into the building.

Got that right. Jude might need to start locking the door.

“Oh.” The old man’s steps slowed when he spotted Noah and Lily. “Sorry, didn’t know you had company.”

“It’s all right, Dad.” Noah turned. “We were just discussing Lily’s matron of honor, Kayla.”

“Kayla?” Their father’s brow creased. “Jude, you knew a—”

“Yeah. It’s her.”

“The one that got away?” Why had Dad felt the need to add that?

“Got away?” Arms still crossed, Noah puffed out his chest all big-brother-like. “Is there something else you’d care to tell me?”

Lips pressed tightly together, Jude shook his head. “Nope.”

“You were head over heels for that one.” Dad rubbed the stubble lining his chin. “Never could figure out why you didn’t ask her to marry you.”

Noah and Lily exchanged a look.

“I was twenty-two years old. I didn’t know what I wanted.” Yes, you did. You wanted Kayla. But given his uncertainty about what he’d wanted to do with his life, not to mention her need to roam... “What’s the problem, Dad?”

The old man’s brows shot up. “Problem?”

“When you came in here, you said we had a problem.”

“Oh, that. Sheriff’s department called. Said we got a couple of cows wandering around on the county road.”

We? Jude didn’t own any cows. And he’d prefer to keep it that way.

“Fence must be down somewhere.” Dad shoved his hands into the pockets of his Carhartt jacket. “The faster we get it taken care of, the better off we’ll be.”

“Need me to help?” said Noah.

“No, you got your hands full with the rodeo school.”

Jude could hardly believe his ears. Noah had always helped them. Now that the rodeo school had opened, he was too busy? Meanwhile, Dad still thought Jude’s woodworking was only a hobby. He shook his head.

“Utility vehicle is waiting outside.” The old man started toward the door. “Grab a jacket and we’ll head out.”

“I’d better check on the kids.” Lily brushed past Jude and followed his father out the door.

Jude’s breathing grew quicker. He felt his nostrils flare. He did not want to fix any fence. He didn’t want any cows. He wanted to be in his shop, working on his business, following his dreams. To do that, though, he’d have to break the news to his father. See the hurt and disappointment in his eyes.

And he didn’t have the strength for that tonight.

* * *

The sun was shining and the air was crisp when Kayla emerged from Granger House Inn the next morning. Perfect weather for a walk. And after the breakfast she’d just eaten, she might need a long one. Carly had prepared a delectable spread of homemade muffins, ham-and-cheese quiche, bacon, sausage, biscuits...and Kayla had sampled it all.

She rubbed her tummy. “Don’t get too used to that, little one. Mommy can’t afford to eat like that all the time.” She’d never be able to fit into her clothes.

After twisting her hair into a single braid, she continued down the steps of the sprawling porch and shoved her hands into the pockets of her denim overalls, noting the pale gray folk Victorian house next door. With its white trim, flower boxes and cozy porch, it reminded her of a quaint cottage instead of the run-of-the-mill older home it had been the last time she’d seen it. And she’d get to live there if she decided to stay.

Which led her to this morning’s mission. Revisiting the old Congress Hotel. Between the dim lighting last night and her rapidly dwindling energy, Kayla owed it to herself and her friend to take another look at what the project might entail before making any decisions. When Kayla had texted earlier, Lily had responded that she’d have the Realtor, who lived nearby and still kept an extra key for occasions such as this, unlock the door.

While Kayla had slept well last night, she’d awoken early, her mind ablaze with the options that lay before her. If she stayed in Denver, she’d have to find a new place to live right away, which meant she’d probably have to settle for something less than perfect and then move again within a year. Unless she was able to find an older home she could flip at some point. Still, having a house like that baby-ready in four months would be a challenge even if she wasn’t pregnant. And, of course, any notions of starting her own business would have to wait until after the baby came and she’d settled into motherhood.

Lifting her gaze, she took in the rustic beauty of the conifer-dotted redstone cliffs at the town’s northeastern edge. Ouray was a unique beauty. Majestic and awe-inspiring, yet comfortable. It had that welcoming vibe that invited a person to stick around for a while. She’d felt it when she was twenty-one, and now, Lily had presented her with the perfect opportunity to linger.

Overseeing a job as big as the Congress Hotel would boost Kayla’s career to another level, perhaps giving her recognition she’d never gain doing homes. She’d also have a house provided for her and a boss she would desperately miss if she went back to Denver.

But then there was Jude. For the life of her, she couldn’t figure out why he was such a sticking point. Their relationship was over long ago. She’d loved her husband and had determined to stay with him for better or for worse.

She focused on the sidewalk. Though sometimes, when things were at their worst, she’d allow her mind to wander back to a time when she didn’t have a care in the world. And there was a man at her side who treated her like a queen.

She squeezed her eyes shut. Forgive me, Lord. I know it was wrong of me to think of Jude when I was married to Shane. Even if they were only innocent thoughts of feeling safe and protected. Forgive me.

Looking up, she eyed a couple of aspens bearing a mixture of green and gold leaves. By this time next week, the trees were apt to be completely golden, creating a perfect backdrop for Lily’s wedding photos.

The two of them would be making a run to Grand Junction in a couple of hours to pick up their dresses. Lord willing, Kayla wouldn’t grow much more before next week. Though, considering the breakfast she just ate, she hoped the seamstress left a little extra room in hers.

Nonetheless, that was precisely the type of thing she had been looking forward to most this week. Aside from Lily, Kayla didn’t have many friends, making girl time a rarity—and almost nonexistent since Lily had been gone.

Sounds like another good reason to take Lily up on her offer.

She continued across Main Street and straight ahead to the hotel. From farther away, it didn’t look so bad. But the closer she got...

Yeah, the outside was in pretty bad shape. Far more than paint alone could remedy. It was a cool-looking building, though. It had an Old West flavor with a touch of Italianate.

The door was unlocked, as promised, and Kayla left it open when she went inside, hoping some fresh air might filter into the musty space. Since she’d already gotten a pretty good look at the main floor, she headed upstairs.

Though carpeted, the steps seemed solid, so that was a plus. However, depending on the wood, they might want to consider replacing the tattered carpet with a runner, leaving the wood exposed at the edges, the way they would have when the hotel was built.

Reaching the top, she continued across the hall and opened a solid wood door. Inside was a smaller-than-small guest room with an iron bed frame and not much else, except for a pile of clutter in the corner that had her doing a double take. Had something just moved?

Taking a step back, she narrowed her gaze as a rat bolted from the heap.

Kayla screamed and rushed into the hall, slamming the door closed behind her. That’s when she heard the sound of footsteps pounding up the stairs.

Her heart thudded wildly. She looked up and down the hall. There was nowhere to hide except for another room. What if it had rats, too?

“Kayla?” Jude’s panic-stricken face came into view as he neared the top of the stairs.

“Jude? What are you—”

“I heard you scream.” He moved toward her, his dark gaze probing. “Are you all right?”

She struggled to catch her breath. “I—I did scream, didn’t I?” She slumped against the water-stained wallpapered wall.

He was beside her now. “What happened?” Concern creased his brow.

With a final gasp, she straightened but refused to look at him. “There was a pile of junk in there, and a rat ran out of it.”

“A rat?”

She nodded.

“Wait a minute. Don’t you work on old houses all the time?”

“Yes.” She lifted a shoulder. “He startled me, that’s all.”

“That’s all?” Hands perched low on his denim-clad hips, he started to pace. “You scared me half to death.”

“You? Why were you scared?”

He faced her again. “Bloodcurdling screams have a way of doing that.”

Heat crept into her cheeks. “Sorry about that. I... Wait, why were you here in the first place?”

“I wanted to look at the place in the daylight. I saw the door was open...”

“And you couldn’t have let me know you were here?”

“I’d barely walked in when you screamed.”

“Oh.” She glanced at the crusty blue-green carpet on the floor. Why did he have to show up now? Acting like a white knight, no less, hurrying to her rescue. “Well, I’m fine, so you’re free to go about your business.”

“My business is here. We may as well join forces and check the place out together.” The corners of his mouth lifted. “In case there are any more rats.”

She glared at him. “For the record, I usually carry a baseball bat when I’m at my job sites. Just in case.”

“Ever used it?”

“A couple of times.”

His lip curled. “Ew.”

“Yeah, it wasn’t pretty.” She absently played with her braid. “But seriously, I’m fine. You just go check out whatever it was you came to see.”

He studied her for a long moment. “Are you sure you shouldn’t go lie down or put your feet up or something? You had quite a scare.”

Did he really just say that? “I’m sorry, but who are you to tell me what to do?”

“I’m not trying to tell you what to do, I’m simply trying to make sure your baby is safe.”

She crossed her arms over her chest. “You’re a doctor now?”

“No, but—”

“And when was the last time you were pregnant?”

“All right, that’s it. I’ve had enough of you treating me like I’m some sort of male chauvinist pig. Can’t a guy just be concerned?”

Not when he’s too chivalrous for my own good. “Not if he keeps trying to tell me what to do.” Her days of being bullied were over.

“Since when have I tried telling you what to do?”

“You just told me to lie down and put my feet up.” She took a step closer, her father’s Irish temper getting the best of her. “So just to make things clear, not only am I not going to put my feet up, I’m going to take Lily up on her offer and turn this hotel into the greatest thing Ouray has ever seen.”




Chapter Four (#u56af6160-b028-594f-aefc-9d3a0fa42795)


What had she done?

From the passenger seat of Lily’s luxury SUV, Kayla studied the mesas in the distance as they approached Grand Junction. Why had she let Jude get to her like that?

She straightened. Because after Shane’s death, she’d promised herself that she would always stand her ground and never again allow herself to be intimidated by another person. But instead of behaving rationally, she’d dug her heels in and made a snap decision before she’d even finished looking at the building.

A decision she was now second-guessing. Renovating the Congress Hotel would be a major undertaking for even the most experienced contractor, let alone a pregnant widow plagued with self-doubt. Never mind the fact that she’d be having a baby in four months, followed by weeks of recovery. Between now and then, there would be permits to obtain, crews to hire, furniture would need to be removed...and that was all before a hammer could be swung. Throw in Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s to slow things down, and they’d have barely begun by the time the baby arrived. How would she oversee things then?

Yet, in the nearly two hours since she and Lily had left Ouray, all they’d talked about was the wedding, a pleasure Kayla had been looking forward to for weeks. But the subject of the hotel was one she could no longer avoid. Not after opening her big mouth in front of Jude.

Kayla studied the woman in the driver’s seat, the one who’d offered her the opportunity of a lifetime. Lily had way too much faith in her. What if Kayla did something wrong? Cost her friend even more money? Or worse, let Lily down?

The vehicle slowed, and Kayla eyed the city limit sign. And to think, she used to be so bold. Approaching life and all it offered with such confidence. But thanks to her bad choices, that girl no longer existed.

She cleared her throat. “So...about the hotel project.”

Lily glanced her way, her expectant smile instantaneous. “Have you made a decision?”

“Um...have you thought this through, Lily? Like I said, it may be a month or more before anyone could even get started. By then we’ll be rolling into the holidays, and shortly after that the baby will be here.”

“Something I can hardly wait for.” Her green eyes fixed on the road ahead, Lily beamed like a proud aunt. And while they weren’t related by blood, Lily was the closest thing Kayla’s child would have to an aunt.

“You realize this baby’s arrival is likely to keep me away from the job site for several weeks while I recover, right? I mean, I might be able to pop in occasionally, but that’s it.”

Lily eased onto a side street, her brow furrowing. “You don’t want to do it, do you?”

“It’s not that I don’t want to. Any other time I’d kill for a job like this. I’d be working for you. Best boss ever. But I don’t want to disappoint you.”

Lily reached for Kayla’s hand. “Sweetie, I considered everything you mentioned before I asked you to be my contractor. It’s not like I have a deadline for this project. I just want to see the hotel brought back to life, because right now it’s a sad piece of Ouray’s history that’s slowly going away.”

Kayla couldn’t argue with that. Back when she and Jude used to walk the town, studying the older buildings, he’d told her that the Congress Hotel had been an integral part of Ouray. Built in the early 1890s, it survived the depression years of the silver crisis that struck in 1893, thrived during the Gold Rush later in the decade and carried Ouray into the twentieth century. Kayla didn’t want to see it vanish either. Not when it still had so much potential.

Lily pulled into a small parking lot, and Kayla glanced at the brick building in front of them as they came to a stop. Discussion of the hotel would have to wait. This appointment was about Lily and her special day.

“I can’t wait to see your dress.”

“Mine?” Her friend killed the engine. “You haven’t even seen yours yet.”

“No.” Kayla had simply sent her measurements. “But I trust your judgment.”

Lily reached for her door, then paused, looking at Kayla over her shoulder. “Just like I trust yours.”

While Kayla knew what her friend was saying, there was a lot of difference between a historic building and a bridesmaid dress.

Outside the vehicle, the sun touched her skin, warming her as the two made their way inside the shop. The owner, a well-dressed silver-haired woman Kayla guessed to be in her sixties, promptly greeted them.

“Lily, I’m so glad to see you again.” The woman enveloped Lily in a brief hug.

“Monique, this is Kayla, my matron of honor.”

Smiling, Monique clasped her hands against her ample chest. “Kayla, you are even more beautiful than Lily said you were.” Her gaze lowered. “And that little girl growing inside of you will be just as lovely as her mother.”

Kayla laid a hand atop her belly. “Oh, I don’t know what I’m having.”

The woman gasped, touching the tips of her fingers to her mouth. “I’m sorry, I’ve given it away.” She winked at Lily then, wagging a finger. “But I am never wrong.” With that, she turned and sashayed toward the U-shaped counter in the center of the space.

Kayla and Lily exchanged a look before Lily shrugged and followed Monique.

“Would either of you care for a snack before we get started?” Monique held out a silver tray adorned with hors d’oeuvres and miniature cupcakes.

Considering it was almost two and Kayla hadn’t had anything since breakfast, she helped herself to a finger sandwich while Lily went for a cupcake.

“If you ladies will excuse me for one moment.” Monique set the tray on the counter before disappearing into a back room.

Nibbling on her chicken salad sandwich, Kayla took in the array of dresses on display in the upscale shop. Princess gowns, strapless gowns, mermaid and sheath dresses. Some were covered in lace while others sparkled with jewels. Good thing she’d ditched her overalls for a pair of black yoga pants and a short-sleeved tunic top. Not exactly the height of fashion, but at least she didn’t look like a construction worker.

Sandwich devoured, she returned for a cupcake. She recalled the joy of choosing the perfect dress for her wedding. If only the memories of her marriage were as pleasurable. Shortly after Shane’s death, she’d opted to donate her gown to Goodwill, praying it might serve as a sweet remembrance for the next person who wore it.

“Come look at this, Kayla.”

She joined Lily in a far corner of the shop where numerous wedding photos adorned a brick wall.

“I love the rustic arbor in this photo.” Lily pointed.

“That is pretty.” Kayla eyed the simple squared arch made of cedar. “Is that what you’re planning to have?”

“No.” Her friend faced her. “All the planner had to offer was one that was painted white. I wanted something with character. You know, that has that rustic feel.”

Kayla nodded at the photograph. “Well, that would definitely do the trick.” And if they were back in Denver, she could easily create one just like it. But without her power tools or a place to do it...

“Oh, well.” Her friend shrugged. “There’s not much I can do about it now.” She inched closer, a twinkle in her green eyes. “So, I guess you’re having a girl.”

Kayla scanned the area to make sure Monique was no where in sight. “You don’t really believe her, do you?”

“She says she’s never wrong.”

“There’s a first time for everything.”

“True. But a little girl would be so much fun. Just think of all the cute—”

“Ladies, I have your dresses ready.” Monique waved them toward the dressing rooms.

Kayla waited as Lily slipped into her dress, helped her with the zipper, then stared at her friend. The simple ivory cap-sleeved satin sheath dress was as elegant and understated as the woman wearing it. “Lily, it’s perfect.”

“You think so?” She glanced at her profile in the mirror, smoothing a hand over the nipped waist.

“It’s sophisticated and classic. Just like you.”

“Not too much for a rustic wedding?”

“Never.”

Lily grinned. “Your turn.”

“Okay.” Kayla hurried into the next room to don her dress.

A few minutes later, Kayla joined her friend at the mirrors in the main part of the store, feeling somewhat uneasy. Though the long flowing dress with a fitted bodice and off-the-shoulder sleeves exceeded her expectations for a maternity gown, it was a far cry from the jeans and T-shirts she was used to wearing.

A grinning Lily tugged her in front of the mirror. “You look absolutely stunning.”

Kayla wasn’t sure about that. “It’s been a long time since I’ve worn something so feminine.”

“Do you like it?”

She pondered her reflection a moment. “It is flattering.” It even camouflaged her baby bump. “And I love the color.”

“Me, too.” Lily peered at the shop’s owner. “Monique and I agreed that plum was the perfect shade for you.”

The older woman set to work then, scrutinizing the fit of each of their dresses, making certain they were just so.

Once they’d changed back into their regular clothes, Lily and Kayla grabbed their dresses, said their goodbyes and climbed into Lily’s vehicle for the drive back to Ouray.

“I have a confession to make.” Kayla eyed her friend as they began to pull out of the parking lot.

“Uh-oh.” Lily put on the brakes. “You hate the dress, don’t you?”

“No, not at all. There’s just something I haven’t told you.”

Still skeptical, her friend continued down the road. “And that would be...?”

“I kinda already told Jude I was going to accept your job offer.”

Knuckles white around the steering wheel, Lily said, “What do you mean, you kind of told him?”

“I got mad when he started trying to tell me what to do.”

Stopping at the corner, Lily looked right then left before making her turn. “Telling you what to do? Like what?”

“When I was at the hotel this morning, something startled me, and I screamed. Jude came rushing to my rescue, then suggested I go put my feet up so the baby wouldn’t be stressed.”

Lily laughed then.

“Why are you laughing?”

“Because I can totally hear Jude saying that. And Noah and Clint... That’s the Stephens men for you. Gentlemen to the core, thanks to their mother. Or so I’ve been told.”

“Yeah, well, it gets annoying.”

Lily reached across the console to lay a hand on her arm. “Kayla, Jude’s not Shane. He wouldn’t try to make you do anything you didn’t want to do.” She glanced her way. “But then, I think you already know that.”

Somewhere deep inside, she did. Recent history had her on high alert, though. “I not only refused to put my feet up, I told him I was going to turn the hotel into the greatest thing Ouray had ever seen.”

A slow smile split her friend’s face. “Does this mean...?”

She nodded. “If you’re certain, then I guess so.”

“Yay! Now we’ll really have something to celebrate tonight.”

“What’s tonight?”

“We’re all having dinner at the ranch. Didn’t I tell you?”

“No...” She would have remembered that. And then tried to come up with a way to bow out so she wouldn’t have to face Jude again today.

“Hmm. Guess I only thought I told you. The whole family is getting together for dinner tonight, and you’re invited, too.”

“Sounds like fun.” Or not. Now she really wished Jude’s mother was still alive. Despite everything, she would have made Kayla feel welcome and right at home. This time, Kayla had to find her own way.

* * *

This was one family dinner Jude did not want to attend.

Not that he wasn’t used to them. But in the past year and half, they’d added what would soon be three sisters-in-law, three nieces and two nephews to their numbers. And while he mostly enjoyed family gatherings, occasionally he felt left out because he didn’t have someone to share his life with.

That feeling had amplified since Kayla’s return. And her presence at tonight’s supper would likely make things even more challenging.

She’s staying in Ouray, buddy, so you’d better get used to it.

A sweet aroma met him as he emerged from the hallway into the living room of the ranch house. “Something smells good.”

“That would be pumpkin crunch cake.” Armed with pot holders, Matt’s wife, Lacie, pulled a baking dish from the oven in the adjoining kitchen.

His other sister-in-law, Carly, cleared a spot on the counter while Dad’s girlfriend, Hillary, closed the oven door.

“Well, if it tastes as good as it smells...” He continued toward the wooden dining table where his infant nephew, Lucas, sat quietly in his seat, oblivious to all of the activity. Jude nudged a finger under the baby’s fisted hand until he took hold. “How’s it going, buddy? You keeping these ladies in line? Where’s everyone else?” he tossed over his shoulder.

“Outside.” Hillary moved beside him, smiling at Lucas.

He glanced at the woman who’d found a place in all of their hearts. “Dad manning the grill?” Hillary had given it to the old man for his birthday, and he’d been like a kid with a new toy ever since.

“Of course.” She shook her head. “I don’t know what he’s going to do once winter sets in.”

“Jude,” said Carly, “could I get you to take these baked potatoes outside for me?” She gestured to the large cast-iron pot atop the stove.

“Sure thing.” He freed himself from Lucas’s grip, grabbed the pot and made his way through the mudroom and outside onto the deck that spanned one side of the house.

Strings of patio lights illuminated the area as Lily smoothed black-and-white-checkered tablecloths over the two wooden picnic tables. His nieces Kenzie, Matt’s daughter, and Piper followed behind her, setting out mason jars full of sunflowers as centerpieces. Meanwhile, Noah ignited two patio heaters to ward off tonight’s chill.

In front of the deck, his niece Megan, Andrew’s daughter, and Lily’s son, Colton, took turns adding wood to the metal firepit as orange flames reached toward the night sky.

“All right, you two.” Andrew eyed the preteens over the railing. “That’s enough wood for now.”

Jude continued on to the far end of the deck where his father and brothers Andrew, Matt and Daniel stood near the grill, no doubt solving the world’s problems while the steaks cooked.

“Potatoes are ready.” He set the pot beside the grill as the sound of tires on gravel met his ears. That could only mean one thing. Turning, he saw Kayla’s blue truck ease to a stop near the opposite end of the deck.

Lily hurried down the wooden steps to greet her with Noah in tow.

Jude watched as Lily introduced the two. Both smiled and shook hands before Noah wrapped an arm around his intended and pulled her close.

“Guess we’d best go say hello.” Dad started across the expanse, followed by Matt and Daniel.

Andrew paused, looking at Jude. “Aren’t you coming?”

“Why?” After their run-in earlier today, she probably wasn’t that eager to see him either.

“Okay, but you’re likely to have the old man barking at you if you don’t.”

Reluctantly, he dragged himself away from the warmth of the grill as the other women spilled from the house, giddy with excitement. He watched as everyone welcomed their guest, recalling the first time he’d brought Kayla home to meet his family. Was she as nervous now as she’d been that day?

Of course, back then, his mother had quickly put her at ease.

When she finally made her way onto the deck, Jude found it difficult to breathe. She was still the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen. Gone were this morning’s braid and overalls, replaced by an ultrafeminine purple sweater, skinny jeans and riding boots. And her hair. He’d always liked it when she wore it down. Dark as chocolate and smooth as silk. Even now he could remember the exotic fragrance of her shampoo and wondered if she still smelled the same.

She stopped beside him, her lips tilting upward as her dark gaze captured his. “We meet again.”

Unable to stop himself, he inhaled deep. But it was the aroma of an open fire and sizzling meat that brought him to his senses. “Guess we should get used to that.”

“If you ladies want to bring out the rest of the food.” Dad nodded at Hillary, Carly and Lacie. “The steaks are ready, so let’s eat.”

The meal had barely begun when talk of the wedding started, escalating Jude’s desire to retreat. But for the sake of Noah and Lily, he hung around and enjoyed dessert. At least until Lily decided to walk Kayla through the layout of the event that would take place at the ranch next week.

After helping clear the tables, he made his escape, certain no one had seen him. Not that the entire family wouldn’t know where to find him.

Once inside his shop, he flipped on the lights and breathed in the scent of wood. He needed to get ahold of himself. So what if Kayla was staying in Ouray? He was an easygoing guy. A cop, for crying out loud. He knew how to keep his cool. Yet twice in the last two days he’d lost it in front of her. She’d never gotten to him like that before. Why now?

Because Kayla had wounded his ego and broken his heart. One day they were talking and texting, making plans to see one another, and then nothing. She never communicated with him again. And though he called and texted until he was blue in the face, there was nothing until the recording saying her number was no longer in service.

Yet, like a fool, he’d continued to hold out hope that he’d hear from her again. The least she could have done was give him an explanation instead of leaving him to wonder.

Needing to redirect his thoughts, he moved to the packaging area of the shop to double-check an order. Then he heard the door open.

He looked up, surprised to find Kayla moving toward him.

His gaze narrowed as he rounded the worktable. “Are you lost?”

“No, I was looking for you.” Stopping in front of him, she said, “I wanted to apologize for my behavior earlier today. You were only thinking of the well-being of my baby.”

Unexpected disappointment wove through him. As if she would have said that she’d made a mistake. That she’d once loved him, too, and wanted to try again. Stupid.

“No big deal. It’s not like no one’s ever gotten in my face before.”




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