For disclaimers, please see part 1.

Strength of the Heart

Part V

Chapter 17

"Let me go on the record as saying, if it were up to me, you’d go to trial." The handsome county prosecutor glared at the two men across the table from him. Robert Campbell had spent the better part of the morning in a meeting with Sheriff Bristol and Judge Packer. The three men had come to the conclusion that justice would be better served to try and work out a plea bargain with Hubert Walters, since their only concrete connection between the former parties was now in the morgue. He decided that a little acting was in order, so that Hubert’s lawyer wouldn’t realize they didn’t have much of a case for conspiracy to commit murder.

Kirk Trumbull nodded, the relief showing clearly on his face. He had been up all night trying to figure out how to keep from going to trial. He had never actually made any court appearances, except when he’d sat with Hubert in his attempt to try and take the ranch away from Lex. "So you’ve said, several times," he grumbled. "What kind of deal are we talking about here? Time served? Or maybe probation?"

Robert laughed. "You’ve got to be kidding me. We’ve got your client’s confession. Not once, but twice." He looked over at Hubert, whose several days growth of beard was liberally peppered with gray, unlike the completely black hair on his head. "With the charges brought against you, Mr. Walters, you could be looking at some serious time in the state penitentiary."

"That’s bullshit! It was all Bobby’s doing. All you have to do is catch him." Hubert looked from the prosecutor to his lawyer. "Help me out here, Kirk."

"Actually," Robert smiled. "We’ve already caught Robert Sammons, but he’s not talking." Dead men tell no tales, he thought wryly. "You’re going to take the fall, all by yourself."

Hubert jumped up and pointed at the smirking man. "Fuck that! There’s no way I’m taking the blame for what that psycho has done." He grabbed his attorney’s arm and pulled, hard. "You need to fix this! Why the hell do I pay you?"

"Calm down, Hubert." The sweating lawyer pried the younger man’s fingers away from his arm. "Sit down and shut up."

Looking as if he were going to argue, the agitated man grudgingly resumed his seat and glared across the table.

"If you can’t control your client, Mr. Trumbull, you can wait and discuss all of this with the judge." Robert waited until both men were silent. "As I was saying, we’d like to save the taxpayers some time and money. So, I’m prepared to offer you a deal--four years in the State Penitentiary, with a chance for parole in two."

The prisoner leaped to his feet again. "You’ve got to be out of your fucking mind! Four goddamned years? No way in hell."

Robert smiled and gathered up the papers that were in front of him. "Fine. Go to trial, and when you’re found guilty of attempted murder, enjoy spending at least fifteen to twenty years in prison." He stood up and placed the papers in his briefcase.

"Wait!"

The prosecutor looked at Kirk, who had stood up as well. "Yes?"

"Give me a couple of minutes with my client, Mr. Campbell. Please?"

"Certainly. I’ll be outside waiting for you."

Once the younger man left the room, Kirk leaned over his friend. "Now you listen to me, Hubert. We don’t have a whole lot of options, here. You’re going to go to prison – there’s no doubt about that." When his client refused to look at him, Kirk grabbed his shoulder and squeezed. "Do you understand me, boy? When they find you guilty- -"

"How do you know they’ll do that?" Hubert objected, impatiently shoving the hand off his shoulder.

"Because," the lawyer sat down so he could look Hubert in the eye, "they’ve got two confessions from you, you idiot. Make no mistake about it, you’re going to prison. But it’s up to you exactly how long you’ll be there."

Defeated, the accountant lowered his head into his hands. "All right. Tell him we’ve got a deal."

***************

Lex smiled indulgently as Amanda opened the passenger door of the truck. She climbed into the cab gingerly, mindful of the small burns on her back. When the younger woman slipped the seat belt around her and locked it, the rancher chuckled. "Thanks, sweetheart. But you don’t have to- -"

"Humor me, all right?" Amanda asked, gently closing the door and jogging around to the other side. Once she was buckled in, she turned to face her partner. "Are you sure you want to do this?"

"Yeah, I’m sure," Lex admitted. "It’s something I really need to do." She leaned back carefully in the seat as the large vehicle rumbled to life. "But you don’t have to stay. I’m sure I can get a ride home."

With a rueful shake of her head, Amanda checked all the mirrors and pulled out of the hospital parking lot. "I don’t think so. We’re in this together, love. I’ll be glad to go with you."

"Thanks." She closed her eyes and fought off the nagging pain of the burns. "It shouldn’t take long, anyway."

Fifteen minutes later, Lex, Amanda and the sheriff stood outside a small room. "Thanks for giving me this chance, Uncle Charlie." She looked over at her partner, who was peering through a two-way glass and watching the inhabitant with some amusement. "What are you giggling at, Amanda?"

The blonde looked up, a guilty smile on her face. "Sorry. It’s just that he looks so different. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him in bright orange." She was getting a deep sense of satisfaction at seeing the man in the jail’s normal attire.

"I’m glad you got here when you did, sweetheart. Otherwise, you would have had to drive to Huntsville. He’s being transported out in the morning." Charlie put a gentle hand on Lex’s arm. "Do you want me to go in with you?"

"No. I really need to do this by myself." She looked up into his concerned eyes and grinned. "But I don’t mind if you want to stand out here and keep an eye on things." With a final look at both of them, Lex squared her shoulders and opened the heavy door, closing it quietly behind her.

Hubert looked up as the door opened. His face wore several days growth of beard and his normally well-coifed hair sat plastered against his head. His reddened eyes glared into the similar pair that belonged to his sister. "Well, well. Come to gloat, little sister?" he snarled.

Lex stood across the table from him, her hands gripping the back of the folding chair. "No, Hubert. I came to see if there was anything you needed for me to do for you before you left." She studied his face for a long moment. "Maybe bring you some shampoo, or an electric razor?"

"Bitch!" He jumped to his feet, his chair clattering noisily to the floor. Hubert pointed an angry finger at the tall woman. "This is all your fault, you know. I bet our old man is rolling around in his grave, seeing what you’ve done to me."

"Don’t you dare invoke our father’s name with me, you pathetic excuse for a man." Lex placed both hands on the scarred wood and leaned across the table. "He asked for you every day he lay dying in that hospital, but you’d have nothing to do with him. So you have no right to speak of him now."

He reached for her shirt, but found his hands batted away almost effortlessly. "Fuck you! At least I didn’t kill him!" Hubert leaned back against the wall and ran both hands through his greasy hair. "You disgust me."

Refusing to be baited, Lex straightened up. "Yeah, well. Being disgusting to a prick like you really hurts," she quipped, turning and walking back to the door. She stopped and faced him one last time. "I hope you make lots of new friends in prison, big brother. Have fun." Lex stepped through the door and closed it, hearing a muffled yell through the wall as she exchanged looks with Charlie. "He’s all yours, Uncle Charlie. Thanks." She held out her hand to Amanda, who wordlessly grabbed it and escorted her down the hallway.

***************

The drive back to the ranch house was a quiet one, as Lex continued to mull over the conversation she’d had with her brother. A part of her was hurt that once again, her brother had disregarded her peace offering. Another part was angry with herself that she had even tried. She continued to stare out the passenger window, torn by her warring emotions.

"Penny for your thoughts." A soft voice broke through her reverie as a small hand squeezed her thigh.

Lex turned away from the window and shook her head. "Doubt if they’re worth that much. I was just thinking."

"About what?"

"My own stupidity, I suppose." When Amanda opened her mouth to argue, Lex waved her hand. "No, really. All my life, I’ve tried to live up to some twisted sense of family where Hubert is concerned. I guess it just took all this time to finally realize that he’s never going to change." She dropped her left hand to cover Amanda’s. "It just hurts, losing another part of my family."

Amanda frowned. "Honey, he may have been related to you by blood, but that bastard was never a part of your family." She felt her temper flare at the incarcerated Hubert. "He doesn’t deserve the right to be a Walters, Lex. You’ve given your family name more honor by your actions than he could ever hope to buy with his schemes – don’t let that man take anything away from you. He’s not worth wasting another thought over." She reluctantly removed her hand from the strong grip and used it to turn the truck onto the private road to the ranch.

"I know you’re right, Amanda. I guess I was just hoping for a miracle." Lex reached across and ran her fingers through the blond strands. "Thanks."

Driving over the old bridge brought a certain sense of déjà vu to the younger woman. She still got butterflies in her stomach each time she drove across the wooden structure. Amanda unconsciously tightened her grip on the steering wheel as she fought with the urge to close her eyes.

"Amanda?" Lex felt her lover tense as the truck rumbled through the bridge. "What’s wrong?"

"Nothing." Once they had crossed through to the other side, Amanda visibly relaxed. "Oh! I almost forgot. Martha wanted us to stop by her house, if you think you’re up to it. She’s probably whipped up a late lunch, or something." She smiled as the ranch house came into view. The outside looked much nicer since it had been rebuilt, and the brick was a pleasant change from the dirty-looking stucco that it had replaced. Amanda glanced over at Lex, who was also studying the clean lines of their home. The older woman had a faraway look on her face, and the edges of her mouth were turned upward into a slight smile. "Whatcha thinking about?"

"Hmm?" Lex turned and looked at her friend, which caused her smile to widen. "You."

Amanda blushed as she parked the large truck behind the house. "Umm - -"

"Hey," Lex reached over and touched the younger woman’s arm, "you’re cute when you blush." Deciding to have pity on her embarrassed friend, she unbuckled her seat belt and opened the door. "Let’s go see what’s on Martha’s mind."

"I have a pretty good idea," Amanda mumbled, climbing out of the vehicle and following the tall woman down the well-traveled stone path.

Moments later, both women were greeted at the cottage door by Martha, who pulled them inside and wrapped her arms around them. "Goodness! I didn’t expect you to come over the second you got home, girls." She stepped back and looked at Lex. "Honey, you look like you’re about to fall down. Come sit down on the sofa."

"Mada, I’m fine," Lex argued, but allowed the older woman to guide her into the living room. She sat down and leaned back carefully as the burns on her back began to ache. This is getting tiresome. Her eyes closed against her will, the emotionally draining morning catching up to her.

The housekeeper stood quietly for a moment, shaking her head as she watched Lex drift off to sleep almost immediately. She felt a light touch on her arm and turned around to see Amanda nodding towards the kitchen. With a return nod, she turned and walked down the small hallway behind the blonde. After the door closed behind her, Martha wrapped her arms around the younger woman. "You look like you could use this," she whispered in Amanda’s ear.

With a gasping sob, Amanda released all the stress and worry she’d held in for the past few days. She buried herself in the welcoming arms and allowed her emotions to let go.

"Shh, baby. It’s all right," Martha crooned gently, helping the crying woman into a nearby chair. She sat down and continued to hold Amanda, stroking the blond head gently.

"God, Mada," Amanda choked out a few moments later, "how do you handle it?" Taking a deep breath, she leaned back in the chair and wiped her face with one hand.

Martha pulled a clean handkerchief from her apron pocket and wiped the tear-stained face across from her. "I wish I could tell you it gets easier, sweetie. But that kid of mine is definitely a handful. Trouble just seems to find her." She stood up and opened the refrigerator, pulling out a pitcher of tea and pouring two glasses. "You realize what’s coming up next week, don’t you?"

Amanda accepted the glass with a nod. "I’d almost forgotten, until we pulled up to the house a little while ago." She played with the ring adorning her finger. "Do you think we should postpone it?" The plans had been finalized almost a month ago, before Lex’s father had become hospitalized.

"Changing your mind?" a voice asked from the doorway.

"Lexie. You should be resting," Martha scolded, taking the rancher by the arm and leading her to a chair. She brushed the unruly hair out of Lex’s eyes and shook her head. "Looks like it’s about time for another haircut, baby."

The dark-haired woman nodded. "Probably so, since I want to look my best next week." She looked over at Amanda uncertainly. "Do you still…?"

"Of course! I just wasn’t sure about the timing." Amanda looked at Martha, who gave her a brief nod.

"If you two will excuse me, I have a load of laundry to check up on." She exited the room quietly, giving the young women some much-needed privacy.

Lex watched her leave, a tiny smile appearing on her face. "Not very subtle, is she?" Her attention turned back to her friend, who was wiping away the condensation on her glass with one finger. "Amanda?"

Hearing her name, the younger woman looked up. "Hmm?" Seeing the unasked question in Lex’s eyes, Amanda scooted over and sat next to her. "I’m sorry." She took the larger hand in hers and pulled it to her lips, kissing the knuckles softly. "I still very much want to marry you. I just didn’t know if it was a good idea to have the ceremony this soon after your father passed away."

"I was kinda wondering the same thing," Lex admitted. "I haven’t been the easiest person to live with, lately. Thought that maybe you’d want to wait until things settled down some."

"You’re kidding, right?" Amanda asked, reaching with her free hand and stroking her lover’s cheek. "Lex, you’ve had a lot of things to work through, but you’ve done it. And you’ve been no harder to live with lately than usual," she murmured with a small smile. Tears filled the eyes across from her, slowly spilling down the tanned cheeks. Amanda wiped them away with her fingertips, then leaned forward and kissed the tracks left behind. "I love you, Lexington Walters. Will you marry me?"

Heaving a sigh of relief, Lex nodded. "It’s a date," she whispered hoarsely. After clearing her throat, she leaned forward and kissed Amanda tenderly. "I love you, too."

The kitchen door opened, and a smiling Martha breezed in. "Glad that’s settled," she warbled, patting both women on the head. "Why don’t y’all stay for dinner, and we’ll go over all the details again?" She didn’t wait for an answer, reaching into the refrigerator and pulling out a package. "How does meatloaf sound?"

Lex looked at Amanda and grinned. "Sounds great, Mada."

***************

After dinner, Charlie followed Lex outside, at her request. "What did you want to talk to me about, honey? Is something wrong?"

She sat down on the top step of the porch and patted the space beside her. "Wrong? No. Have a seat."

The sheriff scratched his head in confusion, but did as he was asked. He turned so that he could look directly into her face. "What’s on your mind? Are you upset about your brother?"

"Not really," Lex snorted derisively. "I’d say the son-of-a-bitch finally got what’s coming to him." Leaning back on her hands, she smiled at him. "Umm…you know that our ceremony is coming up next week, right?"

"Yep. Martha and Anna Leigh Cauble have been burning up the phone lines, making sure that everything is ready." Charlie reached over and touched the young woman’s shoulder. "You’re not going to postpone it, are you?" He knew that Lex had been deeply upset by her father’s death. Not that I’d blame her in the least. The poor kid’s had a rough time of it, lately.

Lex shook her head. "No." She sat up and ran one hand through her hair. "After what’s happened the past couple of days, I don’t want to take one more minute with Amanda for granted. If everything were ready, I’d marry her tomorrow. Life’s too short to not spend it with the person you love."

He smiled. "That’s good to hear, Lex. But it doesn’t explain what - -"

"Sorry," Lex interrupted. She grabbed his hands and held them still. "I guess you know that we have asked for a fairly traditional ceremony. Amanda’s dad is going to walk her down the aisle, and Jeannie will stand beside her as her maid-of-honor."

"Right," he nodded.

"And, well…I’ve asked my grandpa to walk with me." Suddenly Lex felt shy. "And since I’m not wearing a dress, I figured I’d go ahead and buck tradition even more." Lex waited until she was looking directly into Charlie’s eyes. "Would you stand up with me, Uncle Charlie?"

He stared for a long moment, then blinked. "Me?" his voice squeaked. "With you?"

"You’re the best man I’ve ever known," she said in all seriousness. "I can’t think of anyone I’d rather have."

Feeling a lump rise in his throat, Charlie didn’t even try to hold back his tears. "I would be greatly honored, sweetheart." He found himself wrapped in a strong bearhug, and could feel Lex’s tears dampen his shoulder.

"Thanks, Uncle Charlie," she whispered, hugging him as tightly as she could.

***************

Even in the soft glow of the firelight, the small burns looked painful to Amanda’s eyes, although the antibiotic cream she was applying didn’t appear to be causing her partner any pain. She had offered to apply the medication after a long and playful shower together. Lex was stretched out in the floor of the master bedroom nude, her eyes closed and her body relaxed. She had her head pillowed on her folded arms, and her breathing was slow and even. "There. I think that does it," Amanda whispered, running one fingertip down the smooth skin. When the body beneath her flinched, she felt bad. "I’m sorry. Did that hurt you?"

"No," Lex sighed sleepily. "Cold hands." She reached back with one hand to stroke Amanda’s thigh where the younger woman had straddled her hips. "Your touch never hurts, love. Thanks for always taking such good care of me."

"You’re welcome. I just wish I didn’t get so much practice." Her hands continued to roam the muscled form. "That bruise is already beginning to fade," Amanda commented, lightly tracing around Lex’s shoulder blade. "That was too close."

Lex rolled over slowly, sitting up and wrapping her arms around her lover’s equally naked body. "Not really. The man was an incompetent idiot, sweetheart. He just got in a lucky shot." She mentally slapped herself when she felt Amanda tense. "I mean, he caught me off guard. I should have - -"

"Shhh." Amanda shook her head and looked into the blue eyes. "Let’s not talk about that any more, okay?" She kissed Lex on the chin and nestled her head into the nearest shoulder. "Would you do me a favor?"

"Sure. Name it."

"I’ve got an appointment at the physical therapist tomorrow. Would you come with me?" Part of her didn’t want Lex to meet Peter Chatwick, but a louder voice inside of Amanda’s head begged for her lover’s presence at her next appointment. Something about the therapist didn’t feel right, and she wanted someone else to accompany her and set her mind at ease.

Kissing the blond head beneath her chin, Lex nodded. "I’d love to." She felt the body in her arms relax, and wondered to herself what could cause such a reaction in her normally open friend. "Are you all right?"

"I am now," the younger woman whispered. The only log left in the fireplace crumbled, sending out a momentarily flash of orange before settling down and fading out. Amanda looked up and could barely make out Lex’s expression in the gloom. "Guess we should go to bed, huh? It is getting kinda late."

Lex grinned, her white teeth showing up very well in the near dark. "Oh, yeah. Bed is a very good idea." She allowed Amanda to stand, and took the offered hand that helped her up. "Thanks." A warm hand patted her bare bottom as she walked across the room. "Amanda…"

"What?"

"C’mere, you." Lex sat down on the bed and pulled Amanda into her lap, causing them both to laugh. Her roaming hands stopped trying to tickle the fair skin, and began a light caress instead.

Moaning quietly, Amanda fell back onto the bed, closing her eyes and enjoying the feeling of her lover’s hands. The sensations that Lex’s touch gave rise to caused her to tremble. "Mmm…"

"Are you cold?" Lex asked, her warm breath tickling Amanda’s ear. "I may need to warm you up," she mumbled, lowering her head and kissing a particularly sensitive spot beneath the ear. Her hands continued to stroke and tease, the blonde’s moans fueling her passion.

"God, Lex," Amanda breathed, her hands reaching up and tangling in the dark hair. Each kiss from the rancher set her nerve endings on fire, and her hands couldn’t stay still when moist lips blazed a trail down her chest.

With an evil chuckle, Lex slowed her descent and focused her attention on a small patch of skin beneath Amanda’s ribs. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the taste and texture of the younger woman’s skin as a giggle escaped through Amanda’s clenched lips.

"Not fair, Slim. You know I’m tickl…oooooh." Her complaint was cut short and all thoughts disappeared when Lex continued on her course, laughing softly.

Chapter 18

The small waiting room was empty when the two women entered. Amanda walked over and signed in at the desk, while Lex took a moment to look around. The pale blue wallpaper was textured, the pattern matching the chairs in the room exactly. "Nice place," Lex commented. She finished her tour and sat down next to Amanda. "Not a very busy place, is it?"

Amanda shrugged. "Doesn’t look like it. I was the first person to sign in today, and it’s already after ten."

A door on the other side of the office opened up and a smiling blond woman peeped around it. "Amanda Cable?"

"Cauble," Lex corrected, standing up with her friend. "Mind if I come in with you?" she asked Amanda quietly.

"Not a bit. I’d really appreciate the company." She stepped through the doorway and smiled at the nurse.

Brown eyes studied Lex’s tall form intently as the nurse slowly scanned the rancher from head to toe. "My, my. You are a tall drink of water, aren’t you?"

Lex easily stepped around the curious woman. "So I’ve been told," she admitted wryly. "Which room?"

"Oh, you can’t go in while Peter is working. He doesn’t like an audience." The nurse winked at Lex. "But, I can show you where our lounge is, and give you a cup of coffee."

A door at the end of the hall opened up, and Amanda waved to her partner. "Lex? You coming?"

"On my way, Amanda." Lex smiled politely at the nurse and hurried down the hall. "Thanks," she whispered to her friend as she closed the door behind her. "I thought I’d never get away from her."

"No problem." Amanda looked around the room nervously, then sat down on the paper-covered table. She was relieved when her partner sat down in the chair next to the table and took her hand. Stop it, Mandy. There’s nothing to be nervous about. I’m sure it was just my imagination.

Feeling the unusually clammy hand, Lex looked at her lover in concern. "Are you all right?" She rubbed the hand in hers until Amanda relaxed. "Do you need to leave?"

Shaking her head, Amanda sighed. "No, I’m fine. Guess I’m just a bit nervous." When the door opened, she unconsciously pulled her hand from Lex’s and gripped the edge of the table tightly.

"Amanda! It’s great to see you again." Peter reached out and grasped her shoulder, squeezing it gently. "How’s your leg feeling?" He pulled up a rolling stool and grabbed her leg, sliding the leg of the red sweatpants up past her knee. His hands began to knead the muscles lightly as they worked their way to the inside of her thigh. Suddenly he was pulled from behind roughly, almost falling from his stool as he hit the far wall. "What the…?"

Lex stood over the confused man, her hands clenched at her sides. "Just what the hell do you think you were doing, slimeball? That was completely inappropriate!"

"And who are you?" Peter asked, standing up and looking down at the enraged woman. "I’m her physical therapist – it’s my job to massage the tissue before we begin the exercises."

"Massage? Looks to me like you were copping a feel, you pervert," Lex yelled, refusing to back down from the much larger man. When he pushed her backwards, only Amanda’s hand around her arm kept Lex from taking a swing at the handsome man.

"Honey, wait."

Peter’s smile turned into a nasty sneer. "Honey?" He wiped his hands on his shirt. "And you called me a pervert?" His eyes bulged as Lex gathered two handfuls of his shirt and shoved him into the wall.

"Watch your damned mouth, asshole," Lex growled. "I ought to kick your ass for touching her like that – she’s a lady, not some piece of meat."

Amanda stepped in behind her lover and began to lightly rub her back. "Lex, please. It’s all right." As much as she wanted to see pieces of the therapist all over the room, she didn’t want to have to bail Lex out of jail. "Come on, love. He’s not worth it."

Closing her eyes for a moment, Lex took a deep breath. I want to rip this son-of-a-bitch apart. Slowly releasing the hold she had on his clothes, she lowered her hands and stepped back. Lex never saw the fist until right before it made contact with her face. She stumbled back into Amanda, and they both tumbled to the floor.

"You fucking dyke!" Peter screamed. He leaned down to pull Lex up and hit her again, but the foot that connected with his chest slammed him into the wall again.

"Shut up," Amanda groused, climbing to her feet and pulling Lex up with her. She wiggled her right foot and smiled. "Looks like my leg is just fine, after all. Guess I won’t be back." Without looking back, she pulled her partner out of the small room.

***************

The small hand gently probed the tender area, causing the woman to gasp and pull away. "Ouch," Lex complained as Anna Leigh placed the bag of ice on the bruise under her left eye.

"I’m sorry, Lexington, but the ice will make it feel better," the older woman assured her. She turned her head to look at her granddaughter, who was standing at the kitchen counter making several sandwiches. "Are you going to press charges, Mandy?"

"No. We discussed it on the way over here and decided to just let the entire matter drop. But I plan on calling Dr. Anderson and telling him what a slime Peter Chatwick is. That man is a disgrace to the medical profession." Finishing up, she put the fixings back in the refrigerator and carried the three plates to the table.

Anna Leigh shook her head. "I can’t believe he had the nerve to try anything while Lexington was in the room. Not very bright, if you ask me."

"I don’t think he saw me, Gramma. I was sitting in this little chair almost behind the examination table, and he zeroed in on Amanda, anyway." Lex accepted the plate with a smile, but continued to hold the bag of ice against her eye. "Stupid jerk sucker-punched me. I should have kicked his a - -"

"Lex!"

The rancher pouted. "Well, I should have. He deserved it." She picked up half of her sandwich and took a tentative bite.

"Oh, Lexington," Anna Leigh laughed. "You are something else." She reached over and patted the irate woman on the arm. "I’m glad you were there to protect our Mandy’s virtue."

Lex snorted, then groaned as the movement jarred her sore eye. "Protect her? You’ve got to be kidding me! She leveled that son-of-a…" A dirty look from the woman in question stopped her in mid-sentence. "Uh, I mean, she knocked him on his rear with one swift kick."

"Lex, please. It wasn’t like that," the blond disagreed with a sigh. "I just pushed him away from you with my foot."

"Yeah, right. You pushed him so hard, he’ll probably be nursing bruised ribs for a week." She laughed. "The bas…um, the bum deserved it." Ignoring the look of outrage on her friend’s face, Lex continued to gingerly eat her sandwich, mindful of her own bruise.

Deciding a change of subject was in order, Amanda purposely looked at her grandmother. "What time is Reverend Hampton supposed to be here? I probably need to go upstairs and get out of these sweats."

Anna Leigh smiled. "In about half an hour, or so. He was certainly thankful that you decided to meet him here, instead of making him drive all the way out to the ranch."

"I was really surprised when Martha told me he was interested in performing the ceremony, so I didn’t think it would be fair to have him drive that far," Lex admitted, munching on a chip. "Thanks for letting us borrow your house."

"No thanks necessary, dear. This is as much your home as it is ours."

Lex smiled her thanks. "Well, I still appreciate it." She removed the ice and blinked slowly. "Damn. I hope this stupid thing goes away before the ceremony."

"Oh, I dunno, love. I think it makes you look quite…rakish," her lover teased.

"Gee, thanks. Don’t you need to go change?"

Amanda nodded. "I suppose." She stood up and kissed the top of the dark head. "Try to stay out of trouble until I can get back downstairs, all right?"

Ignoring Anna Leigh’s chuckle, Lex sighed. "Yes, dear." She covered her eye with the ice once again, a little harder than she meant to. "Ow."

***************

Lex sat next to Amanda on the sofa, nervously picking at an imaginary spot on her jeans. They had been discussing everything but the ceremony for what seemed like forever to the rancher, and she was quickly becoming bored. A sharp elbow in her side caused Lex to look up. Amanda frowned at her and nodded to their guest. "Huh?"

"Are we boring you, Lexington?" the Reverend asked with a smile. "Perhaps we could find something more to your interest?"

"No, no. I’m sorry," Lex apologized as she sat up straighter. "What were you saying?"

The cleric stood threw back his head and laughed. "You haven’t changed a bit, my girl. I couldn’t keep your attention in church, either." He winked at Amanda. "Lexington used to come to my church with her mother, God rest her soul. Poor Victoria always had her hands full with this one."

Amanda patted her lover on the thigh. "I know the feeling, Reverend. She’s still a handful."

"Hey!" Lex tried to look insulted, but failed when her own smile broke through. "Look who’s talking." She decided to change the subject, before he told too many stories about her. "You don’t mind performing the ceremony away from the church, do you?"

"Not at all, dear. But can I ask why you won’t consider the church? I’m sure it’s large enough to accommodate your needs." He looked from Amanda to Lex, the latter finding something on the toe of her boot suddenly very fascinating. "Lexington?"

Blue eyes looked up guiltily. "Umm, well. It’s mostly me, I’m afraid."

The minister’s face frowned in concern. "What’s the matter? Is there something that I could help you with?"

"It’s just me, Reverend. The last time I was in church, aside from Martha’s wedding, was when my mother died." Lex ran one hand through her hair nervously. "I don’t feel comfortable there."

"Can I ask you a rather personal question, Lexington?" He leaned forward and placed one hand on the anxious woman’s knee. At her nod, he continued, "Do you believe in God? Or is that a part of the problem you have with the church?"

Lex contemplated the question seriously. "Probably not like you do," she finally answered. "I mean, I believe there is a higher power, but I don’t feel the need to dress up and drive into town every Sunday to prove it. I’ve put up with enough hypocrites who are ruthless and nasty, and they seem to think that showing up in church on Sunday makes everything else that they do okay." She looked into his eyes. "Is it so wrong of me to feel that way, Reverend? Does that make me a bad person?"

He shook his head. "No, Lexington. It’s not wrong at all. As long as you have a relationship with God, he doesn’t care where you worship. And I understand your feelings completely. So," Reverend Hampton smiled at Amanda, "I hear from your grandmother that you were considering an outdoor ceremony."

"That’s right," Amanda agreed, taking one of Lex’s hands in her own. "We were going to have it out at the ranch, but Gramma suggested having it here in her backyard, instead. What do you think?"

"Well, since it’s just going to be a small family gathering, I say we go out back and take a look." He stood up and held out a hand to the smaller woman, who accepted his aid and stood up as well. "Lexington? Would you care to join us?"

"Sure. You two go on ahead, I’ll be right behind you," the rancher waved them out of the room. After they had left, she leaned back against the sofa and closed her eyes. Feeling someone else in the room, Lex opened her eyes and saw a concerned Anna Leigh standing in the doorway. "Hi, Gramma. You just missed them."

Anna Leigh walked over to the sofa and sat down next to Lex. "No, I didn’t, dearest. I saw Amanda showing Reverend Hampton the way to the back yard, and thought I’d come in and check on you." She reached over and brushed the dark strands out of the younger woman’s eyes. "How are you feeling, Lexington? You look a bit tired."

"It’s been a long week," Lex admitted. "And now with all this talk about the ceremony, I guess I’m just a bit out of sorts."

"Out of sorts? Are you having second thoughts, dear?"

Lex shook her head and hurried to try and explain. "No, nothing like that. I just never thought I’d be getting married." She smiled at the older woman. "I’m not exactly the settling down type, and living and working out on a ranch isn’t usually the best place to meet people." She sat up and turned so that they were looking eye to eye. "Do you think Amanda will be happy, living the rest of her life out at the ranch?"

Seeing the worry in the face across from her, Anna Leigh reached down and clutched both of the rancher’s hands. "Lexington, I think that if you were living in a cardboard box in your barn, Mandy would be happily sitting beside you. But, she adores the ranch, and I think you’d have a horrendous fight on your hands if you tried to move."

"You really think so?" Lex wanted to believe her. Still, there was a small knot of apprehension deep inside of her that feared losing the woman she loved. Everyone else I’ve ever loved has left me, one way or another. Much to her dismay, Lex felt tears well up in her eyes and slide down her cheeks.

"Oh, Lexington." Anna Leigh wrapped her arms gently around the crying woman and pulled her close. She continued to hold the weeping rancher, rubbing the top of the strong shoulders in a comforting gesture. "Shhh…it’s all right, honey. Let it go." Once Lex’s sobs quieted down to sniffles, she felt her pull away.

Lex rubbed her wet face with her hands, embarrassed by her outburst. "I’m sorry. I don’t know what’s come over me, lately," she mumbled. She bowed her head, unable to look the other woman in the eye.

Reaching behind the sofa, Anna Leigh grabbed a nearby box of tissue. She pulled out several, and wiped at Lex’s face. "You have nothing to apologize for, Lexington. I believe that a good cry cleanses the soul."

"Well, mine should be nice and spotless, considering how much I’ve done this lately," Lex muttered. "I haven’t cried this much in my entire life." Although she was still bothered by her outpouring of emotion, she felt strangely relieved, as if a large weight had been lifted from her shoulders. She accepted another tissue from Anna Leigh and quietly blew her nose.

"Perhaps it’s because you feel so much more, now," Anna Leigh offered wisely.

The dark head nodded. "You’re probably right. Having Amanda in my life has certainly brought my emotions out."

Anna Leigh frowned. "Is that a bad thing, dear?"

"Not at all," Lex hurried to assure her. "Before I met Amanda, I wasn’t living - - just existing. Nothing held any interest for me except working on the ranch, and even that wasn’t very fulfilling. She’s made my life all the richer for being in it."

"Now that’s one of the most honest statements of love I’ve ever heard," Reverend Hampton voiced from the doorway. "I’m sorry to interrupt, but we were growing concerned when Lexington didn’t join us." He was standing behind Amanda, whose eyes were glistening with unshed tears.

Anna Leigh patted Lex on the leg and stood up. "I’m afraid that was my fault, Reverend. Why don’t we go into the kitchen for some refreshments, and you can tell me what you think of our plans for the wedding."

Needing to connect with Amanda, Lex stood up and met her in the center of the room. Arms wrapped around bodies as both women tried to meld into one another. "You heard all that, huh?" Lex asked, her voice muffled by Amanda’s hair.

"Every word," the younger woman admitted, her words hard to hear through Lex’s shirt. She turned her head and rubbed her face against the soft cotton. "That was beautiful, love."

"Just the truth." Lex pulled back slightly, waiting until Amanda did the same so that they could see each other’s faces. She reached out and cupped the tear-stained face below hers. "I love you with all my heart, Amanda. There’s not a moment in the day I don’t thank God for bringing you into my life."

Amanda felt her heart skip a beat as Lex’s face came closer and their lips met. Every kiss is as powerful as the first her mind marveled, while her hands tangled themselves in the dark hair and she found herself lost in the emotions.

***************

"Stop laughing. You’re next, you know."

Janna slumped in the uncomfortable chair and covered her mouth with one hand. She enjoyed watching the sales clerk fuss over her friend as Barbara tried on dress after dress. "You’re not getting me in one of those. I don’t care who’s getting married."

Brown eyes narrowed in the mirror’s reflection. "That’s not what I meant." Barbara gently slapped a slim hand away from the strap on her shoulder. "Could you give us a few minutes alone, please? I’ll wave if we need anything."

The matronly sales woman frowned, then sighed. "I suppose. But don’t try to hang up the dresses on your own – that’s what I’m here for, dear." She walked away, mumbling under her breath about young people not appreciating good service.

"Now," the brunette walked over and knelt beside Janna’s chair, "what’s wrong? You’ve been snappish all day."

"Have I? I certainly don’t mean to be." Janna felt her hand grasped and looked down into the concerned face. "I’m sorry. I don’t know what’s wrong with me lately."

Barbara smiled. She had a pretty good idea what the accountant’s problem was. She’s been like this ever since we got the invitations to Lex and Amanda’s wedding. Their own relationship had been moving along slowly, and she couldn’t understand what was holding Janna back. A few kisses, a little snuggling. Why is she so reluctant to go any further? "Maybe we should wait and finish shopping another day," she offered.

Janna shook her head. "No, that’s okay." She glanced around to make sure no one was looking at them, then ran her fingers through her friend’s light brown hair. "You know, I really liked that last dress." The pale yellow silk had draped across Barbara’s body, accentuating the bank teller’s soft curves and bringing out her brown eyes.

"You did, huh?" Although she hated to admit it, Barbara enjoyed the way Janna’s eyes lit up after she had stepped out of the dressing room in the outfit. She was just afraid the dress was too sexy for a small wedding. "You didn’t think it was too much?"

"On the contrary," the blonde murmured, leaning closer until they were inches apart. "I thought it was perfect." Suddenly realizing where they were, Janna sat back quickly. She cursed herself for her cowardice. Why can’t I just tell her how I feel?

The moment broken, Barbara sighed. "All right, then. Guess I’ll take the yellow dress." She started to stand, but was stopped by a pull on her hand. The anguish in Janna’s blue eyes tore at her heart.

"Can we go someplace quiet and just talk?" Tired of fighting her feelings, Janna was determined to tell the other woman what was in her heart, before she lost her nerve.

"Sure. How about my place? It’s not that far from here." Barbara stood up and smoothed the dress she was wearing. "C’mon, you can unzip me," she teased, trying to lighten the mood while her heart worried at what Janna needed to talk about.

***************

Janna watched as Barbara straightened the magazines for the third time. "Why don’t you come over here and sit down? The coffee table looks fine." She knew that her reticence was the main reason her friend was so nervous, and vowed to herself to make it up to Barbara any way she could.

"I’m sorry. It’s just - -"

"No," Janna pulled the younger woman down to sit beside her. "I’m the one who should be apologizing. We really need to talk."

Here it comes, Barbara thought to herself. The old, "It’s been fun, but let’s just be friends," speech. She willed herself not to cry. "So, talk."

Confused by the brunette’s brusque tone, Janna mentally shook off the hurt her words caused. "These past few months have been some of the best of my life, Barbara."

"But?"

"Huh?"

"But? These little talks always have a ‘but’." Barbara jumped up and started to pace the floor. "Am I not attractive enough to you? What is it about me that you find so repulsive? I’ve tried, and tried, but every time I want to go further, you stop us." She stood on the opposite side of the room with her back turned, angrily wiping away the tears that fell down her cheeks. "Do you find me that hard to like, Janna?"

Janna quickly stood up and crossed the room, reaching out and lightly placing her hands on the quaking shoulders. "Hard to like? God, no." Her voice cracked on the last word. "I love you, Barbara," she whispered, wanting so badly to take the hurt away. She was surprised when the smaller woman spun around in her arms.

"You what?" Barbara searched the other woman’s face for any indication that she had misheard her. "Did you say…?"

"I love you," Janna repeated, louder this time. She reached up and brushed the dampness away from Barbara’s face. "I’m so sorry I didn’t say it sooner."

Barbara smiled. "I love you, too." She linked her hands behind Janna’s neck and pulled her face closer, pressing their lips together.

***************

At Martha’s insistence, the entire family gathered at the ranch house for dinner. The new dining room held everyone comfortably, with a couple of leaves removed from the formal table allowing everyone to sit together.

"The ham was wonderful, Martha," Jacob exclaimed at the end of the meal. "I’m going to harass you unmercifully for the recipe to the glaze, you know."

Amid the laughter, the proud cook glowed. "You’ll do no such thing, Jacob. I’ll write it down for you before you leave tonight." Emboldened by the company with which they were surrounded, she decided to have a little fun. "Lexie, when do you want to go shopping for your dress?"

"What?" The rancher’s fork clattered noisily on her plate, as conversation stopped and all eyes focused on her.

"A dress. You can’t get married in boots and jeans, you know."

Lex looked at Amanda fearfully. "We hadn’t really discussed what we’ll be wearing."

"Oh, Lexington. I know the best little boutique in Austin. I’m sure we can find you just the perfect thing," Anna Leigh added, picking up on the game.

"A…buh….umm…."

Amanda was trying hard not to spray iced tea through her nose, as she had just taken a sip when Lex began stammering at her. She quickly swallowed, and patted the nervous woman on the back. "I’m sure you’ll look beautiful, honey. Why - -"

Shaking her head, Lex tried to speak, but only a squeak came out of her mouth. She leaned back in her chair, and would have fallen backwards except for Travis’ hand against her back.

"Settle down, child. I think they’re pulling your leg," he laughed, as the other three began to laugh as well.

"I am so going to get you back for this, Amanda," the rancher growled.

The blonde smiled. "I can’t wait," she whispered back with a wink. Amanda looked across the table at her grandmother, then at Martha, who was sitting near Charlie at the other end. "Gramma, speaking of what to wear, I really do need to go shopping. Martha, would you like to go with us?"

"I’d love to, sweetie. When are you thinking about going?" Martha smiled at her husband, who, with the other men at the table, had stood up and begun to clean off the table. "Thanks, honey."

Charlie leaned over and kissed the top of her head. "No problem, sweetheart. Since you cooked this fabulous meal, how about letting us guys do the cleanup? You ladies can discuss wedding plans."

"That’s a great idea, Charlie," Jacob agreed. He and Travis picked up several items from the table and followed the sheriff into the kitchen.

Ronnie, who had been quiet until that time, shook his head at Lex’s expression. "Good luck," he mouthed to her, receiving a wink in return.

"Maybe I should just help in the kitchen," Lex offered, standing up and reaching for a plate.

"Oh no you don’t." Amanda slapped her hand and then stood up. "You’re going to listen to the wedding plans, and you’re going to participate, too." She smiled at the other women. "Why don’t we go into the den, and the guys can join us there later?"

Anna Leigh stepped around the table to link her arm with Lex’s. "That’s a splendid idea, Mandy. We can also talk about the sleeping arrangements for the guests coming in. I’ll save your old bedroom for you, so you can stay with us the night before the wedding."

"What?" Amanda stopped in the doorway, causing Martha to run into her.

The housekeeper patted her on the back. "You said you wanted a traditional wedding, dear. One of the traditions is not seeing each other before the ceremony." She gently pushed the silent young woman through the hallway and into the den. "It’s only for one night."

***************

Later that same evening, Amanda was snuggled against Lex, her head pillowed on the older woman’s shoulder. "How on earth did we let them talk us into that?" she asked. They were lying in bed, the only light a flickering candle on a nearby table.

"Don’t blame me," Lex muttered. "I was ready to elope days ago." She really wasn’t upset, the happy glow on Martha’s face more than making up for any discomfort the wedding plans might cause. "I don’t think Mada ever thought she’d be getting to do all this."

"They are having fun, aren’t they?" Amanda asked, a small smile on her face. "I just don’t see why we can’t go shopping together, though."

Lex sighed, and kissed the blond head beneath her chin. "Another one of their silly traditions. We can’t see each other dressed for the wedding until it’s time. Bunch of hooey, if you ask me." She thought for a moment, then swallowed heavily. "Do you really want me to wear a dress?"

Knowing her lover was serious, Amanda held back her laughter. "No. It was fun to tease you about, though." She rolled off the sturdy body beneath her and leaned over Lex. "This is as much your wedding as mine, love. You can’t enjoy it if you’re uncomfortable the entire time."

"Are you sure? Because I’d do anything to make it perfect for you - - even wear a goofy looking dress." She unconsciously reached up and tangled her fingers in the soft blond hair.

"The only thing you have to do to make it perfect for me is be there. I don’t care if you’re in your boxers and tee shirt." Amanda chuckled at the mental image. "As long as it wasn’t those horrid black boxers with the red lips on them. Those are scary."

The rancher laughed. "You shouldn’t have bought them if you didn’t want me to wear them," she teased. "Teach you to try and mess with me." When Amanda had joked about all of Lex’s cartoon shorts, the older woman told her if she wanted to see her in more "grownup" clothes, to buy her some. The black satin boxers had been a gag gift, which Lex had promptly worn regularly ever since.

"I know, I know. Never dare you to do anything, right?" Amanda leaned down until their lips were almost touching. "I bet you won’t kiss me," she whispered.

Lex raised up and covered Amanda’s lips with her own. She kissed her slowly, deepening the kiss and rolling the smaller woman over onto her back. "You lose again," she mumbled, bending down and kissing Amanda again.

Nuh-uh. Amanda thought happily. I win again.

Chapter 19

"I’m not coming out," Lex yelled. "I look like a complete idiot."

Martha rolled her eyes and shook her head. "God grant me the patience to get through this day," she muttered, trying to ignore Anna Leigh’s laugh. Since they knew she would be the harder of the two to fit, the two women had decided to take Lex shopping first. They left Amanda at work, her pleas for them to take pictures of the event falling on deaf ears.

"Lexington," Anna Leigh called from outside the dressing room door, "it’s only the two of us out here. I’m sure you look lovely." She watched under the door as one athletic-socked foot stomped childishly.

"No."

The housekeeper sighed, and moved to stand next to the Amanda’s grandmother. "Lexington Marie Walters! You get yourself out here this instant, or I’m coming in after you."

Damn. Lex glared at her reflection in the mirror. She would, too. She unlocked the door and stepped out, wanting to be anywhere but where she was. This just sucks.

The ivory dress had multiple ruffles, the two largest circling the sullen woman’s shoulders and knees. Both older women suddenly covered their mouths with their hands, attempting to hold back their laughter. "Oh, my," Anna Leigh finally choked out, understanding why Lex had refused to step out of the dressing room.

"Who the hell picked this one out?" Lex grumbled, the lower ruffle looking even more absurd against her white socks.

"I believe it was that last saleslady," Martha offered. "The one you told to go to - -"

"Okay, okay. I get it." Lex waved one hand in a dismissive gesture. "Can I please get out of this monstrosity?" Her patience was wearing thin. She had been trying on dresses for the past several hours, each one more ridiculous than the last.

Martha patted her arm. "Of course you can, sweetie. You go on, and we’ll send something else over in a minute."

Muttering about elopement and jeans, Lex slunk back into the dressing room and slammed the door.

"Excuse me, ma’am?" A young woman holding a light-colored garment tapped Anna Leigh on the shoulder. "I hate to interrupt you, but I accidentally overheard your conversation." She handed the hanger to the older woman. "Try this." The young woman looked around, hoping that no one was listening. "I’m new, so I’m only in charge of hanging up the clothes, but this looked like it would fit." She rushed away before either woman could thank her.

"Well? I suppose we don’t have anything left to lose at this point, do we?" Anna Leigh asked Martha, who shrugged. She handed the garment to the housekeeper, who quickly draped it over the door.

A loud groan followed its appearance. "Not another one?" Lex pleaded.

"This is the last one, I promise."

"Okay. But I’m gonna want that in writing," the tired woman grumbled.

Moments later, Lex stepped out of the dressing room, a thoughtful look on her face. "Well?" She held her arms out wide. "I think I can handle this."

Martha stood speechless. She glanced over at Anna Leigh, who had a similar look on her face. The three-piece outfit appeared to be tailor-made for the tall woman, the soft ivory silk contrasting nicely with her tanned skin. Wide-legged pants, sleeveless blouse, and a matching lightweight jacket complemented Lex’s broad shoulders and slim hips. Finding her voice, Martha finally declared, "You look beautiful, Lexie,"

"She certainly does," Anna Leigh agreed, reaching out and touching a silk-clad arm. "What do you think about it, dear?"

Lex shrugged. "It’s not that bad," she conceded. "At least it’s not some slinky dress." She stood in front of Martha, concerned. "Are you sure it’s all right, Mada? You look kinda upset."

"Oh, honey," Martha cried, wrapping her arms gently around the taller woman. "You look perfect. I guess it’s just finally hit me that you’re getting married, that’s all." She pulled back and smiled. "My little girl has really grown up. It’s a hard adjustment."

"It’s not like I’m going anywhere, you know." Lex reached out and caressed the older woman’s cheek. "We live a few yards away from you; nothing’s gonna change."

The housekeeper shook her head. "It’s not that, sweetie. You’ve got your own life, now. You don’t need an old woman bogging you down."

"I’ll always need you, Mada. Getting married doesn’t change that." Lex leaned down and kissed the housekeeper on the head. "I love you." Deciding to lighten things up, she grinned. "Think my boots will look okay with this suit?"

"Boots? Oh no you don’t, Lexington Marie." Martha swatted Lex on the rear. "Go get out of these clothes before you ruin them. We’ll find you just the right shoes, won’t we, Anna Leigh?"

"We’ll certainly try," the retired realtor laughed. "I hope the shoe store is ready for us."

***************

Muted conversation mingled with the normal sounds of a busy restaurant. Silverware against china and the tinkling of ice in glasses blended in well with the sounds of hurried footsteps as servers rushed from one table to the next. At one particular table, a beautiful young woman sat down next to an older man, placing her purse under her chair and sitting down with a smile.

"You didn’t have to buy me lunch just to see me," Amanda chastised. "I’ve missed you too, you know."

Michael laughed. "Well, between both our busy schedules lately, this was about the only time we had free." His photography studio was constantly busy, and the former executive was seriously thinking about hiring an assistant. "You about ready for the big day, sweetheart?"

She nodded. "Almost. I’m supposed to go shopping for a dress with Gramma and Martha tomorrow." An evil grin found its way onto her face. "Although, after today I don’t know if either one of them will be ready to go shopping ever again."

"Why’s that?" he asked, raising his glass of water and taking a drink.

"Because they’re shopping with Lex today." She laughed at the look on her father’s face.

He struggled to keep from spraying water all over the table, and coughed several times after swallowing. "You’re going to put Lex in a dress?" Michael gasped, wiping his chin with his napkin. "I don’t mean to sound tacky, but people would pay to see that."

"Excuse me, folks. What can I bring you to drink, today?" A teenaged waiter stood at their table, notepad in hand.

Amanda smiled at the earnest young man. "I’ll have iced tea, please." Her father nodded, indicating he wanted the same. Once the waiter had taken their order and left, she responded to Michael’s question. "I told Lex that I wanted her to be comfortable for the ceremony. She could wear boots and jeans, for all I care."

"I’m sure she appreciates that thought, honey. But knowing Lex like I do, I’ll bet that she wants to dress in keeping with the occasion. Although, I do feel sorry for Mom and Martha," he added with a smile.

"Me too," she agreed.

Michael’s expression sobered as he reached across the table and took Amanda’s hand in his. "Sweetheart, I want you to know how proud I am of you. It does my heart good to see you so happy."

"Thanks, Daddy." She looked down at their linked hands, and then smiled back up at him. "I never thought I’d be getting married."

"To tell you the truth, neither did I," he admitted. "Especially after you told us you were gay." Michael took a deep breath and gazed intently into his daughter’s eyes. "It wasn’t the life I wanted for you, honey. I hoped that you would find some nice fellow who would look after you, so that you could settle down and start a family." When she opened her mouth to interrupt, he shook his head and squeezed her hand. "No, wait. Let me finish." At Amanda’s silent nod, he continued. "I’ve come to know Lex well these past few months. And now I can honestly say that I’m glad you’ve found each other. The way she looks at you lets me know that I don’t have to worry about my little girl any more. And that’s all a father can ask."

Amanda closed her eyes for a long moment. When she opened them, tears of happiness tracked down her cheek. "She’s the best thing that has ever happened to me, Daddy. Thank you for understanding."

Choking back his own tears, Michael nodded. "Thank you for giving me a second chance to try, Amanda."

Plates being set down in front of each of them broke the somber mood. "Here you go. Is there anything else that you need right now?" the waiter asked, not realizing the moment he’d interrupted.

"Ah, no. We’re good," Amanda answered, pulling her hand back and wiping at her eyes. She winked at her father. "Right?"

"Yes, honey. We’re great," Michael agreed, his smile almost as broad as his daughter’s.

***************

Lex rubbed her eyes, the small words on the computer monitor beginning to blur. She had closeted herself in the office after returning from the shopping trip, deciding that she might as well look over the information Janna had emailed her the day before. The ranch was prospering under her firm guidance, with the previous quarter showing more earnings than she’d anticipated. She stretched her legs out under the desk gratefully. Her denim jeans were a pleasure to wear, especially after spending all of the morning and part of the afternoon trying on clothes. "Thank God for boots," she muttered happily. A soft knock at the door caused Lex to look up. "Yes?"

The door opened slightly, and Travis’ gray head poked inside. "Lexie? Are you real busy?"

"Not a bit, Grandpa. Come on in," she offered, standing up and walking around the desk. Wrapping her arms around the taller man, Lex squeezed him as tightly as she dared. She held the embrace for a long moment, then released him and pointed Travis to a chair. "Have a seat. What’s up?"

"What makes you think something’s up?" he asked, bending his long form to fit into the comfortable chair. "Can’t a man just want to see his granddaughter?"

Duly chastised, Lex sat down in a chair close to his. "Um, sure. I didn’t mean - -"

Travis laughed. "You’re just too adorable, Lexie." He reached across the small space and placed his hand on her arm. "Actually, I did want to talk to you. Have you girls decided where you want to go for your honeymoon?"

"Honeymoon?"

"Yes, honeymoon. The trip you take after you’ve been married," he explained with mock seriousness. "I plan on sending the two of you someplace nice to start your life together. Maybe somewhere in Europe? Paris, perhaps?"

"Paris? France?" Lex was having a terrible time absorbing the conversation.

He shook his head and laughed again. "Of course, France. Although Paris, Texas, is a lovely place, I don’t think it’s quite honeymoon material," Travis joked.

Lex paled. "B…b…but, that would mean we’d have to fly," she stammered weakly. A sudden feeling of helplessness washed over her as she flashed back to when she was much younger.

Eight-year-old Lexington was so excited she could barely contain herself. Her father had agreed to let her accompany him on a cattle-buying trip to Colorado. She sat in the pickup truck seat next to him, her eyes taking in the scenery as they drove to the small airstrip a few miles north of Somerville.

"Of course you’d have to - -" Travis stopped when he saw the look on the younger woman’s face. "Lexie?" Why on earth would flying upset her so? He slid out of his chair and knelt next to his granddaughter, putting one arm around her shoulders. Realizing that she was dangerously close to hyperventilating, he rubbed her back encouragingly. "Take slow, deep breaths, Lexie. It’s going to be all right."

Several moments later, Lex found herself in her grandfather’s arms, tears streaming down her face. She blinked several times and looked around. The flashback to the accident seemed so real to her, as she struggled to remember the rest of the details. "What happened?" she asked Travis, who was wiping the tears from her face.

"I’m not sure, honey. You zoned out on me for a few minutes, there. Are you all right?" His own hands were shaking in response to the look of terror that had crossed her face.

"I think so." She paused while her heart rate slowly went back to normal. "I don’t like to fly," she acknowledged.

Travis nodded. "I pretty much figured that out on my own, Lexie," he teased, trying to lighten the mood in the room.

Lex shook her head and chuckled at herself. "Yeah, I suppose you did." She swallowed hard and tried to fight the feelings that threatened to overtake her again. "When I was eight, Dad took me on a buying trip with him. We were in a friend’s small plane, and had to make a crash landing. Guess I blocked it out for all these years."

"Dear God! Was anyone hurt?" Travis squeezed her tighter, feeling the strong body he held shiver slightly.

Accepting the comfort, Lex wrapped her arms around him and held on tight. "No. The pilot was good, and managed to get us down safely, but I completely freaked out," she admitted. "At least now I know why I don’t like to fly."

"I don’t blame you, sweetheart." Travis gently rocked his granddaughter. "I’m sorry I brought it up."

"Don’t be, Grandpa." Lex pulled back and took a deep breath. "We could never figure out why I wouldn’t fly. I guess Dad never told anyone about the accident."

He frowned. "Why on earth would the man keep such a terrible thing secret? He should have known how traumatized you were."

Lex laughed. "I think he was embarrassed." She remembered the threat of a beating if she ever told anyone about Rawson’s shame. "He kinda had his own accident, if you know what I mean."

Travis threw back his head and laughed along with her. "Oh, Lord! I would have paid to see that!" Realizing he was still kneeling on the hard wood floor, he slowly stood up. "How about we go raid the kitchen for some cookies? We can talk more later about sending you on your honeymoon."

"All right," Lex agreed, standing up with him. "As long as you don’t mention flying." She followed him out of the office, both of them still chuckling.

***************

"I just wish we had known before now," Martha groused as she took her place at the dining room table. She had been extremely upset when Lex and Travis had related Lex’s sudden onslaught of memories from long ago. "Why on earth wouldn’t Mr. Walters have told me? Poor Lexie was so upset after that trip, and I never could figure out why."

Lex looked up from her plate, where she had been using her mashed potatoes to dam up the rich brown gravy that covered her roast. "I was? I don’t remember."

The housekeeper nodded. "You most certainly were, honey. After you got back, you suffered from horrible night terrors, and slept in my room with me for nearly a month. ‘Til your daddy found out and threw a nasty fit." At that time, Martha had lived in a small room next to the kitchen, which had been converted into a mudroom after Lex built her a house nearby. After the ranch house had recently been gutted by fire, that same room had made way for the dining room they were all sitting in.

"Did he ever give you any explanation for why I was so upset?"

"No, baby, he didn’t. All I could get out of the man was that you’d had a bit of a scare. He never would go into any detail for me." Martha reached across the table and patted Lex’s hand. "I think he felt responsible, and was ashamed to admit what had happened."

Amanda squeezed the strong thigh on which her hand was resting. "That sounds like your dad, honey. He was a proud man, and I bet it really bothered him that he couldn’t help you get through something like that. When he realized that you had blocked the whole incident out of your mind, I’m sure he was relieved."

"Maybe."

Charlie, who had been quiet up to that point, decided to change the subject. "I hear you went shopping today, Lex. Did you have a nice time?" His wife laughed, and the only response he received from Lex was a low growl. "What did I say?"

"I’d have had more fun getting my fingernails removed…without anesthesia," Lex grumbled.

Martha shook her head. "It wasn’t that bad," she argued. "Especially after Miss Grumpy Gus over there left the poor salesladies alone."

The rancher glared across the table. "That last woman had it coming, Mada. She was a complete horse’s a…"

"You watch your language, young lady," Martha interrupted. "You’re not too big to have your mouth washed out with soap."

"Yes, ma’am," Lex sighed. She pointedly ignored the giggling woman beside her. "Anyway, Uncle Charlie, a good time was not had by all. It was sheer torture."

The housekeeper moaned. "Oh, puhleez. It wasn’t half as bad as make out."

Lex snorted her disagreement. "Two words for you, Mada." She smiled evilly. "Shoe store."

Rolling her eyes, Martha sighed. "I’d almost forgotten about that," she moaned.

"What happened?" Amanda asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.

"That clerk shouldn’t have tried to cram my foot into that goofy-assed pointy shoe." Lex looked at Travis and Charlie, expecting sympathy. Both men appeared to be trying to contain their mirth. "What was I supposed to do?"

"Certainly not kick the poor woman," Martha chastised. "In the chin, of all places."

The dark-haired woman chuckled. "She left me alone after that, didn’t she?"

Charlie couldn’t hold back any longer, and guffawed loudly. "Good grief, girl! It’s a wonder I wasn’t called in to file an assault charge."

"You probably would have been, dear, if we hadn’t bribed the unfortunate woman with more sales," Martha reported. She looked over at Amanda. "I hope you’ll be needing shoes tomorrow, Mandy."

Amanda laughed. "If not, I’ll buy some anyway if it will keep Lex out of jail so close to the time for our wedding. You will be going with us tomorrow, won’t you, Mada?" She smiled as the housekeeper nodded. "Good. I promise to be a little easier to shop with." A hard poke to her leg under the table caused her to look at her lover. "Well? It’s the truth."

"Brat."

"Grump," Amanda retorted, sticking out her tongue. "I’m really looking forward to tomorrow. I just love to shop."

"Smartass," Lex grumbled. At the glare from Martha, she rolled her eyes. Damn woman has the ears of a rabbit. "Well, I’m glad all I have to do tomorrow is take Michael riding. He’s really come along great with his lessons. My day should be a piece of cake," she announced with pleasure.

Chapter 20

"How about this, Mandy?" Anna Leigh pulled a pale yellow dress from the rack. "I believe it would look quite lovely on you, dear."

A very unladylike snort came from behind Amanda. "She’s getting married, Gramma. Not going to the prom," Jeannie commented. She and her husband Frank had arrived late the night before, and she had practically begged to be included on the shopping trip to Austin.

"Jeannie!" Amanda slapped her older sister on the arm and smiled apologetically at their grandmother. "It’s a beautiful dress, Gramma. But I was hoping for something more…traditional."

Anna Leigh brightened and exchanged knowing glances with Martha. The housekeeper had been standing by quietly, enjoying the by-play between the two sisters. "Excellent! Then we have just the shop," Anna Leigh exclaimed. She gathered up their other bags and led the small entourage from the store.

Half an hour later, the foursome stood outside an exclusive boutique. Amanda gazed at the doorway, then shook her head vigorously. "Oh no, Gramma. I can’t go in there."

"And why on earth not?" the older woman asked, crossing her arms over her chest.

"Because it’s too expensive, that’s why. I can’t afford to buy stockings in there, much less an entire gown." Although she had been given the ability to withdraw money from her trust fund at age eighteen, Amanda lived off her wages from the real estate office. Out of sheer stubbornness, she refused to touch the money that had been bequeathed to her upon the deaths of her maternal grandparents, except to donate large sums to her favorite charities.

Jeannie grabbed her sister by the arm and began to pull her into the shop. "You are so pathetic, Mandy. Unless you’ve gone on one heck of a shopping spree in the past year or so, I happen to know that you’ve got more money than you know what to do with."

"Hey! Leggo," Amanda pleaded, struggling to break free of the older woman’s grasp. "Jean Louise! Let go of me!"

A frowning woman, who appeared to be near the same age as Anna Leigh, met them just inside the door. She watched with disdain as the two younger women argued, the smaller of the two finally throwing up her hands in defeat. "May I be of some assistance to you, ladies?" she asked. Her demeanor changed when she saw one of the older women behind the quarreling siblings. "Martha Rollins?" The round face of the clerk softened as she recognized her friend.

"Deborah Sue Fosselmeyer. I can’t believe it’s you!" Martha easily maneuvered around Jeannie and embraced the other woman. They hugged for a long moment before pulling back and looking at each other. "Actually," Martha waved her left hand under her friend’s nose, "it’s Martha Bristol, now."

"Really? That’s wonderful!" Deborah looked behind the smaller woman. "Are those your daughters?"

Martha smiled. "Not exactly." She turned and waved to the other women. "Although this cutie," she pulled Amanda over, "is about to become my daughter-in-law. Amanda Cauble, I’d like for you to meet my closest friend from high school and college roommate, Deborah Sue Fosselmeyer. We haven’t seen each other for over twenty-five years, I’d imagine."

"It’s very nice to meet you, Ms. Fosselmeyer," Amanda acknowledged, taking the other woman’s hand and shaking it. "Let me introduce you to the heathen I was fighting with when we came in." She held out her free hand and motioned her sister over. "This is my sister, Jeannie Rivers. And," a proud smile lit up her face, "our grandmother, Anna Leigh Cauble."

Anna Leigh stepped forward after Jeannie. "Lovely to meet you."

"Please, call me Deborah." She looked back at Martha. "You mentioned that Amanda is about to become your daughter-in-law? Then I’m sure that means you’re here for a wedding dress," she surmised. "Do you have any pictures of your son?"

Martha looked at Amanda, who shrugged. "Why don’t you and I go have a quick little chat, while these girls look around a bit?" she suggested to her old friend. "I’m sure Anna Leigh can keep them out of trouble for a short while."

Deborah nodded. "I’d like that, Martha. "Come to the back room with me, and I’ll show you pictures of my children from my last three marriages."

"Three marriages?" Martha exclaimed, following her friend. "You never could make up your mind, Debbie," she laughed, as they walked away.

Jeannie, who had been quiet up to that point, looked at her sister. "Do you think she’ll be okay?"

"Martha?" Amanda asked. "I’m sure she’ll be fine. It’s her friend we should be worried about," she teased. "Heaven help her if she says anything bad about Lex."

"Or you, dear. Martha is very protective of you both," Anna Leigh chimed in. She rubbed her hands together and looked around the boutique. "Well? Shall we get started?"

Amanda giggled. "Yes, we shall." She allowed her grandmother to lead her to the corner of the store which held the wedding gowns. "I hope Lex is having a good time."

***************

"Damn it all to hell!" Lex growled. "Keep your smelly carcass still, you stupid fool." She tried to get a better grip on the mud-covered body, but it slipped through her fingers again. "Don’t move, dammit!"

"Are you sure there’s nothing I can do?" Michael asked.

The rancher slipped a bit further, coming dangerously close to being buried in the muck. "No. Stay put," she commanded. "One of us in this mess is more than enough." Giving up on trying to stay clean, Lex wrapped both arms around the neck of the bawling calf. It had somehow fallen down a steep embankment and into a spring-fed section of the creek, its tiny hooves unable to escape the tall, six-foot walls.

"Okay," Michael sighed. He was standing above the creek, holding the reins of the horses. The photographer almost pulled his camera from the saddlebag, but changed his mind. I don’t think that Lex would appreciate a shot quite that candid. He grimaced as the calf suddenly began to struggle more vigorously.

"Calm down," Lex commanded, even as she was pulled further under the thrashing animal’s body. One sharp hoof dug into the fleshy part of her thigh. "Son of a bitch," she cried, getting madder by the moment.

"Are you okay?" Michael asked, stepping closer to the edge. He had heard the pain in her voice and was becoming concerned. A loud buzz suddenly sounded from the creek, and the two horses that Michael was holding shied, dragging him backwards.

Lex felt her heart begin to pound furiously. "Damn." She looked around slowly, trying to locate where the noise was coming from. As the steady buzzing continued, she spied the source on a rocky ledge, three to four feet away from her and the calf. Rattler. No wonder this calf was going nuts. "Michael?"

"Whoa," Michael crooned, trying to get the wild-eyed animals back under control. He had been dragged several yards away from the creek, and now both horses refused to follow him back. "Come on, guys. Give me a break here. I’m new at this sort of thing," he pleaded, pulling on the reins. Both horses pulled back, almost sending him tumbling to the ground. He heard his name called from the creek, and glared at the stubborn equines. "Hold on, Lex," the agitated man called over his shoulder, as he gave up and tied both animals to a sturdy looking tree.

"Not too close," Lex cautioned, her voice suddenly very quiet. "We’ve got a little problem."

***************

Jeannie held an ivory, intricately laced gown across her body. "Oooh, Mandy. Look at this one."

The blonde’s eyes widened, and she looked to her grandmother for support. "Umm, well…"

"For goodness sake, Jeannie. The ceremony is being held in our backyard, not in the cathedral," Anna Leigh quipped. She smiled slyly at her eldest granddaughter. Teach her to be smart with me.

"Gramma," Jeannie moaned. She put the dress back on the rack, eyeing it sadly. Seeing her sister staring over her shoulder, she turned around. "What?"

Amanda pointed with one finger. "Over there," she said, walking in the direction she had just indicated. She turned and looked at her grandmother, who had seen what she did and nodded her approval. "Maybe I’ll just try this one on," Amanda decided, pulling the dress down and holding it close.

In the backroom of the boutique, Martha smiled at her old friend as Deborah Sue brought them each a cup of coffee. "It’s been way too long, hasn’t it?"

"That it has, hon," Deborah agreed. "After your mother’s funeral, we lost touch," she lamented. Taking a sip of her coffee, she sighed. "Did you end up as a teacher somewhere, after all?"

Martha laughed. "Not exactly. You remember the job I took at that ranch, helping that poor woman who became bedridden during her pregnancy?" At her friend’s nod, she shook her head sadly. "I’m afraid that Mrs. Walters passed away, shortly after delivering her baby."

Deborah gasped. "Oh, my. That’s just horrible."

"It certainly was. Those three children, left without a mother," Martha related sadly. "Anyway, I stayed on to take care of them."

"Oh! And you married their father!" Deborah exclaimed.

Waving her hands in front of her in negation, Martha laughed again. "No, no. Nothing like that. I did care for the children as if they were my own," she admitted quietly. "After a while, I was so attached to them, I couldn’t have left if someone had tried to make me." She reached into her purse and pulled out a small photo album. "Amanda is going to be exchanging vows with the middle child, Lexington."

The chair she was in squealed in protest as Deborah scooted it around near her friend to look over her shoulder. The first picture was of three young children, ages four, eight, and fifteen. The oldest, a scowling teenage boy, glared at the camera while digging his fingers into the shoulder of the girl sitting beneath him. She was holding the four-year-old in her lap, happily smiling. "Gracious. Look at that dark hair and eyes. He’s quite handsome."

"Yes, he is. But Hubert is just plain ornery, I’m afraid."

"He’s got to have some redeeming qualities, to get a sweet girl like Amanda." Deborah paused. "Oh, the oldest boy’s name is Hubert. Then, that means that - -"

Martha turned the page, to a smiling young woman, standing next to a large black horse. The animal’s head was draped over her shoulder, and the black hat on her head couldn’t shade her bright blue eyes. "This is my Lexie, Deborah Sue. My pride and joy," she added strongly, daring the other woman to say something derogatory. To her surprise, Deborah laughed.

"You’re kidding me!" she chuckled, standing up and walking over to a cabinet to remove her purse. "That pretty young girl out there is getting married to another woman?" She stepped back over to the table and sat down. Seeing the angry look on Martha’s face, she patted the other woman’s arm in a placating manner. "Wait, I’ve got something you need to see." Deborah dug through her purse and pulled out her wallet, opening it up to show a small photograph of two handsome young men. One of the men was sitting in a wicker chair, while the other leaned forward and had his arms wrapped around the first. Both were smiling at the camera. "This is my son, Donald," she explained, still chuckling, "and his partner, Lloyd. Don is the one sitting down."

"Goodness," Martha exclaimed, looking back up and into her friend’s eyes. "Looks like we’ve more in common than we thought," she joked.

***************

Peering over the edge of the embankment, Michael felt the blood rush from his head. "Oh, God." The rattlesnake was coiled and looked ready to strike at any moment, its attention solely on the tall, mud-covered figure a few feet away. It was at chest level to the still woman, who cautiously looked up at Michael out of the corner of her eye.

"Attached to my saddle is a small shovel," Lex told him evenly. She carefully raised her left hand, until it was slightly higher than her body. "Would you mind bringing it to me?"

"Sure," he agreed, slowly backing away. Once he was clear of the creek, Michael ran back to the horses and struggled with the leather tie that secured the folded shovel. "What the hell is she going to do with this? Dig her way out?" he mumbled, shaking his head. "I don’t think I want to know." He jogged back towards the creek, stopping before he got to it and slowly stepping to the bank’s edge. "Everything okay?"

Lex stared at the snake, which continued to rattle ominously. "Just ducky," she mumbled. "You wanna hand me that shovel? Open it up first."

"Okay." Michael fought the latch before the shovel clicked open. "You’re not going to try and kill the snake with this, are you?" he asked, turning the tool around and slowly placing the handle in her gloved hand.

"You got a better idea?" When she didn’t get a response, Lex smiled. "Step back, Michael. If I miss, I don’t want him coming after you."

Doing as he was told, the older man swallowed nervously. "You’d better not miss, Lex. I’m looking forward to welcoming you into my family in a few days, and I don’t like to be disappointed." He watched as the shovel was raised slowly over her head, and the buzzing sound grew in intensity. Michael closed his eyes for a short moment, opening them just in time to see the utensil swing down suddenly. The black hat disappeared from his view, and he rushed to peer over the edge of the embankment.

Lex was lying back against the muddy wall, her eyes closed. Bits of pink flesh clunk to the shovel that was still in her left hand, and half of the snake could be seen hanging from the rocky wall where it had been perched. "Damn, that was too close," she mumbled, opening her eyes and grinning up at the frantic man. "You okay, Michael?"

"Am I okay? Have you lost your ever-loving mind? You could have been bitten!" he ranted, shaking a finger at the laughing woman. "What the hell are you laughing about?"

She wiped a smudge of the snake’s blood from her cheek. "You know, a few months ago you probably would have cheered for the rattler."

Michael dropped to the ground, swinging his legs over the side of the creek. He nodded in agreement. "Unfortunately, you’re probably right."

"We’ve come a long way, haven’t we?" Lex asked, looking up into his face.

"That we have, Lex." Michael agreed, before jumping down into the mud beside her. "I think between the two of us, we can get this little guy out of here," he offered.

Lex smiled. "Probably so." She bent down and pulled the calf’s rear feet free. "Put your thumb and index finger together, and make a ring in his nose. Once I get him free, he should follow you out without any problems."

Looking at his hand, and then the calf, Michael frowned. "You want me to put my fingers in a cow’s nose? Is this some sort of payback for that punch in the face I gave you when we first met?"

"Nah. It’s just the easiest way to lead him out of here," she assured him. "Trust me."

I do, Lex, Michael thought, as he followed her instructions. Otherwise I’d never let you marry my daughter.

***************

Martha and Deborah Sue returned to the dressing area just as Amanda stepped from the small room, wearing the dress that she had picked out. They stood beside Jeannie, who clapped her hands with joy.

"I do believe we have a winner, folks," she exclaimed, rushing over to her sister to ooh and aah. "Gosh, Mandy. You look beautiful."

Amanda ducked her head and smiled. "You really like it?" She turned around and glanced at herself in the mirror. The sleeveless ivory satin accentuated her body well, and the scoop neckline showed off her heart necklace. She turned back to her grandmother. "Do you think it’s too short?" The hem came to just above her knees, and the small scar where her leg had been operated on after the accident was partially visible. Amanda scowled at her reflection. "Maybe I should go with a floor length."

"I think you look perfect, dearest," Anna Leigh commented, as she stepped up behind the worried woman and placed her hands on Amanda’s shoulders. "Remember, this is a casual, outdoor afternoon affair. I think this dress would complement Lexington’s outfit perfectly."

"Oh? And what’s she wearing?" Amanda asked, turning around to stare at her grandmother.

Martha stepped forward. "Oh no you don’t, young lady. We’re not going to spoil the surprise for you." She looked the young woman over carefully. "You really are beautiful, honey. I love the dress."

"Thanks, Mada," Amanda murmured. "I hope Lex thinks so, too."

"I know she will. My Lexie always looks at you through love’s eyes, Amanda. You could wear a flour sack and she’d think it was a ballroom gown," the housekeeper teased.

Jeannie stood next to her younger sister and put an arm around her waist. "Isn’t that the truth? I know that Frank loves me, but sometimes I wish he’d look at me like Slim looks at you."

"Aw, Jeannie, stop it," Amanda sniffled, waving one hand in front of her face. "You’re going to make me cry."

Deborah Sue tapped her friend on the back and waved Martha away from the other women. "She certainly makes that dress look good," she whispered, pointing back to where Amanda was still fending off the compliments from her family.

"That she does," Martha agreed proudly. "And she’s just as beautiful on the inside, too."

"After just being around her for a short time, I believe you. I want her to have the dress, Martha." Deborah shook her head as the other woman opened her mouth to argue. "Please. Consider it a wedding present. Look at this place." She opened her arms and held them wide. "My second husband was quite well off, you know. This boutique is just something to keep me from getting bored in my old age."

Martha laughed. "You’re not getting old, because that would mean that I’m getting old, and I refuse to accept that." She wrapped her arms around her friend and pulled her close. "If you can get Amanda to agree to accept the dress, then thank you, Debbie. Would you like to come to the reception? I’d love for you to meet my girl."

"With an invitation like that, how can I refuse?" the shop owner accepted. "From the pictures you showed me, she looks like a beautiful young woman to be proud of."

***************

"Damn, I reek," Lex moaned, flicking another clump of mud from her jeans. "Amanda’s going to kill me." She stretched in the saddle, fighting the tightening of her overused muscles. "I thought we’d never get that calf out of the mud."

Michael scratched the back of his neck, feeling the skin tighten where the mud was. "I’m sorry about that, Lex. If I hadn’t let go when the little devil sneezed, he wouldn’t have dragged you down like that."

She looked over at her father-in-law to be. "That’s okay. You look as bad as I do." It was true. Michael had tried to help Lex out of the mud. But when he reached down to give her a hand, the calf half-butted him and caused him to lose his balance, causing Michael to fall face first right next to his daughter’s partner.

"Do I?" He scratched his head, the drying clumps of mud tumbling away. "Well, it’s only fair, I suppose." Trying to get his mind off of his itching skin, Michael decided a change of topics was in order. "I know this isn’t the best of circumstances, Lex, but I’d really like to talk to you."

"Sure. Do you want to stop somewhere, or keep riding?" The tall woman tried to put on an unaffected air, but her hands shook slightly at his serious tone.

His laugh calmed her a bit. "Let’s keep going. The sooner I get this mud off of me, the better." Pulling his horse closer to hers, Michael looked into the worried woman’s face. "I thought about asking Amanda, but she’d probably just tell me what she thought I wanted to hear," he started. "I’m sure she’s told you that my divorce was final not too long ago."

Lex nodded. "Yeah. Congratulations."

"Thanks. I feel one-thousand percent better, knowing I’m not legally connected to that viper any longer." He shrugged his shoulders. "I’ve, umm, been dating recently," he mumbled, "and I was wondering if I could bring Lois to the wedding."

Surprised, Lex almost fell from her horse. She reached out for the saddle horn to keep astride Thunder. Pulling the animal to a stop, the rancher looked at Michael for a long moment. "Is this the lady from the bar?"

He nodded. "Yes, Lois Compton. I wasn’t sure if you’d remember her or not."

"I was pretty tanked that night, wasn’t I?" Lex admitted. "Is it serious between you two? Or is it really none of my business?"

"Uh, well," Michael suddenly found the mud caked on his saddle fascinating. "I wasn’t looking for anything serious," he admitted, "but she’s just the most incredible person. I can’t stop thinking about her, Lex."

Oh, boy. I’m sure that listening to Amanda’s father talk about his love life wasn’t on my list of today’s things-to-do. What am I supposed to say to the man? Lex began to panic? What if he asks me…?

"Can you fall in love with someone in such a short amount of time?" Michael asked, unaware of the internal conversation Lex was having with herself.

"Huh?" She didn’t see the tree Thunder walked under, and was almost swept off the horse. "Damn!" Lex growled at the animal, pulling him to a stop. With a heavy sigh, she climbed down from the saddle and took the reins. "I think I’d better walk for a bit," she admitted.

Michael laughed. "I think I’ll join you." He stepped down and began to walk beside her, leading his horse behind him. "I’m sorry, Lex. I didn’t mean to upset you."

"No, no. I’m not upset, really. Just thinking about how to answer you." They walked for a couple of minutes in silence before she spoke again. "You asked if I thought you could fall in love with someone in just a few weeks, right?"

"Right," he agreed. "This is all very new to me. I’ve never been in love before, Lex."

Amanda is going to owe me big time for this one. "Neither had I, before I met your daughter." Lex kicked a rock with her boot, unable to look at him. "It’s hard to explain, but the moment I saw Amanda, I knew I loved her. There we were, walking along during a thunderstorm after I had fished her out of the creek. Both of us drenched to the bone, and every word, every touch from her was like a healing balm to my soul." She blushed when she realized what she had said. Jeez. He’s going to think I’m some sort of lunatic.

Feeling the emotions that accompanied the words, Michael stopped in his tracks. He reached out with his free hand and grasped Lex’s arm, turning her to face him. "That has got to be one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard, Lexington Walters." Tears shone in his eyes, as well as a new respect for the woman standing next to him. "I’m damned honored that you’ve chosen to share your life with my daughter." Not caring about the mud covering them both, Michael pulled the tall woman into a bone-jarring hug. "You’re going to make a damned fine daughter-in-law, Lex."

"Thanks, Michael," she whispered, overcome with emotions herself.

"You can call me dad, if you’d like."

Lex pulled back from the embrace and smiled, her white teeth shining through the dirt liberally coating her face. "I’d like that a lot, Dad."

***************

"I really appreciate you coming with us today, Martha. It made the shopping trip much more fun," Amanda commented to the older woman. They were walking from Martha’s house after parking the Explorer. "I still feel guilty for letting Deborah Sue just give me that beautiful dress. It wasn’t cheap, you know."

Martha laughed as they climbed the back steps to the ranch house. "Don’t you fret any over her, honey. Debbie has more money than she has good sense." She stopped when she saw two heaps of mud, which appeared to have once been two pairs of boots. "Oh, lordy. What has that child gotten herself into now?" She pushed the door open and shook her head. Clumps of mud and grass formed a distinctive trail down the long hallway. Martha knew that if she looked, the route would lead up the stairway and into the master bedroom.

Footsteps could be heard jogging down the stairs. Amanda watched as Martha stepped further into the house and stood in her usual "Lexington is dead meat," stance. To both women’s surprise, the person rounding the corner of the staircase wasn’t Lex, although he was wearing a set of her sweats.

Michael skidded to a stop, his socked feet sliding on the hardwood floor. "Oh! Uh, hi there." His hands were full of muddy clothes, and the expression on his face caused his daughter to burst out laughing.

"Oh, Daddy! You look like you got caught with your hand in the cookie jar," she giggled. Amanda had to lean against the housekeeper to keep from falling on the floor, she was laughing so hard.

He looked down at the pile of clothes in his hands. "Umm, I didn’t - -"

"Hey, Dad. Did you…" Lex stopped at the foot of the stairs, also carrying a large pile of mud-covered garments. "Oops." She broke out into a huge smile, and tried to hide the clothes behind her back. "I didn’t hear y’all drive up."

Dad? What went on this afternoon? Amanda walked over to her father and shook her head. "Just what were you two doing today? I thought you went for a ride."

"We did," Michael admitted. "But there was this calf stuck in the creek, and - -"

"My Lord. You sound like one of the kids, Michael," Martha chastised. She reached out and tried to take the clothes out of his hands. "Give me those, and I’ll put them in to soak."

Michael turned around and looked at Lex, who shrugged. "Better do as she says, Dad. You don’t want Mada chasing you around with a spoon," she teased. She pulled the mess from behind her back and walked up to the housekeeper. "Want me to carry these for you?"

"No, I don’t." Martha took the bundle from Lex and turned around. "Blasted kids, always getting into trouble," she muttered, as she walked back down the hallway and stepped into the laundry room.

"Is she mad?" Michael asked as he watched the housekeeper walk away.

Lex stepped up beside him and put a companionable arm around his shoulder. "Nah. She wouldn’t know what to do with herself if it wasn’t for me," she told him.

"I wouldn’t have as many gray hairs," Martha yelled from the other room.

Amanda shook her head. "One of you is almost as bad as the other," she lamented, her heart secretly proud of the two people standing in front of her. "Who’s going to tell me what you got into today? It’s got to be a great story."

"Not much to tell," Lex replied, backing up slowly. "Things were going just fine until that damned rattlesnake caused such a ruckus." She grinned and ran.

"Rattlesnake?" Amanda’s face grew pale. "She didn’t say - -"

Michael patted his daughter on the back. "It wasn’t really that close to her head, honey. And she was able to kill it with a shovel."

"Shovel?" Amanda watched as the rancher disappeared in the den. "Lex!" she yelled. "I’m going to have to hurt her," she grumbled, following her lover. She tried to shut out her father’s laughter as she walked away. He’s next, he decided.

Chapter 21

Lex watched the younger woman place her makeup in the overnight bag. "Tell me again why you have to go so early? The wedding is tomorrow, and it’s only," she looked at the clock on the nightstand, "ten-thirty in the morning." She stood up from the bed and followed Amanda into the bathroom. "I can take you over to your grandmother’s later this afternoon."

"Honey, please. It’s only for one day. We’ll see each other tomorrow." Amanda turned around and almost ran into her lover. "Just pretend that I’m at work. You probably won’t even miss me." Although she was having just as rough a time at the thought of leaving, she tried to put on a brave front. One of us falling apart is enough, Amanda thought as she reached around Lex to grab her toothbrush. "You know how Gramma and Martha are. If I don’t get downstairs soon, one of them is going to come up here and get me."

"I already miss you," the tall woman pouted. Lex stepped behind Amanda and wrapped her arms around the small waist. "You know," she bit gently on the blonde’s earlobe, "I’m sure we can find something to do up here." One hand snaked its way under the light-colored tee shirt that her friend was wearing, and Lex began to trace a gentle pattern across Amanda’s skin. Small hands reached up and tangled themselves in her long hair as the rancher continued to nibble on her neck.

The sound of a throat being cleared caused both women to look to the doorway, where a red-faced Jeannie stood. "Don’t you guys ever get enough?" she blustered as she tried to ignore the blush that stained her face. "Gramma sent me up here to get you, Mandy. She said you two can pick up where you left off tomorrow after the reception."

"Give us just five more minutes," Lex asked, hating the pleading tone in her voice.

"Oh, no. Gramma said that you might beg. But I’m supposed to not show you any mercy." With her hands on her hips, Jeannie glared at the tall woman. "What’s the big deal, Slim? It’s only for one night."

Not able to even explain it to herself, Lex stayed quiet for a moment. She’s right. I spent plenty of nights alone before Amanda came into my life. I can do this. She watched as Amanda gathered up the rest of her things and closed the small suitcase. "I’m being silly, aren’t I?"

Feeling sorry for the rancher, the auburn-haired woman reached out and placed one hand on her arm. "Actually, I think it’s incredibly sweet." Jeannie leaned closer to whisper into Lex’s ear. "I’m glad my sister has you to love her, Lex." She wrapped her arms around the startled woman and squeezed.

Lex felt a feather-light kiss on her cheek before Jeannie pulled away. "So am I," she mumbled, smiling at the woman who would soon be her sister-in-law. Picking up the suitcase, she grunted. "Good grief, Amanda. Did you pack your favorite bricks, or something?"

"No, silly. Just the things that I’ll need tomorrow." The blonde linked her arm though Lex’s free one. "Walk me downstairs?"

"Sure, if I really have to."

Jeannie quietly followed the couple, amused at their loathing to separate, even for one day. They'll probably be just like this on their fiftieth anniversary, she mused.

Two frowning faces met the trio at the foot of the stairs. Martha had her hands on her hips as she glared at the tallest of the group. "It’s about time you dragged yourselves down here," she fussed. "We were just on our way up."

"C’mon, Mada. It’s not like we’re on a time schedule today," Lex grumbled. She stepped past the older woman and yelped at the slap she received on the rear. "Hey! What was that for?"

The housekeeper shook a finger at Lex. "For sassing me, that’s what. You know that tradition says you’re not supposed to see each other twenty-four hours before the ceremony. So yes, we are on a schedule."

Lex fought to keep the pout off her face. "Yes, ma’am." She looked down at her lover, who was fighting a losing battle to hold back her giggles. "What’s so funny?"

"You look like a little kid, when you pout like that," Amanda chortled, shaking her head. She leaned up and kissed Lex on the cheek. "Walk me out to the car?"

"Yeah," the rancher sighed, leading her fiancée down the hallway.

***************

Travis, Charlie and Jacob all stood up as Anna Leigh made her way through the lunch crowd at The Crossing and stepped up to their table. She gladly accepted the chair her husband pulled out for her. "Thank you, dearest."

"We were afraid you wouldn’t make it," Martha commented, catching their waitress’s eye and waving her over.

"I almost didn’t," the smaller woman acknowledged. "Mandy kept wanting to follow me around. I think she misses Lexington already."

Martha laughed. "I know what you mean. If it wasn’t for Morris and Kevin staying out at the ranch, I don’t know how I would have gotten away from Lexie. She’s just as bad. Although she finally took off on that monstrous horse of hers, so maybe she’ll come home in a better mood."

A heavyset older woman stood by the table, waiting until they had finished talking. "Excuse me, folks. I hate to interrupt, but is there something I can bring you, ma’am?" she asked Anna Leigh.

"Yes, please. I’ll have tea and the fajita salad." She handed back the menu that had been lying on the table. "Thank you, dear."

"You’re welcome, ma’am. I’ll bring your tea right over, and it’ll be just a few minutes for your salad." The server left quickly, bringing back the glass of tea and retreating silently again.

Anna Leigh looked at the happy grin across the table. "All right. It looks like you’ve got something to share. Travis? Care to tell me what I missed?"

"Well, like we had agreed to on the telephone, I think all of us were concerned that the girls hadn’t made any plans for a honeymoon." Seeing the nods from everyone, he rubbed his hands together. "Since Lexie doesn’t like to fly, we were extremely limited as to where we could send them."

Jacob sighed. "That certainly leaves out some of the more typical honeymoon spots. We don’t want to send them by bus," he joked. "Maybe a cruise?"

"That might have worked," Martha agreed. "But I can tell you from experience, those cabins on board ship are tiny. And since they’d probably spend most of their time in their room, the poor things would probably go nuts. So, Travis and I put our heads together, and came up with something I think everyone will like." She nodded to the older man. "Why don’t you tell them? It was your idea, after all."

Travis shrugged. "Certainly." He looked around the table to make sure he had everyone’s attention. "As you know, I still have my limousine and driver from my home in Dallas. Well, Martha and I were talking the other morning, and we were trying to figure out someplace close that we could send Lexie and Amanda. She mentioned that she had always wanted to see New Orleans."

"Of course! What a splendid idea." Anna Leigh reached over and clasped Martha’s arm. "Absolutely wonderful, dear."

"Thank you," the housekeeper blushed slightly. "But I can’t take all the credit. Charlie and I have been discussing going to New Orleans for a while now. We both would love to see Bourbon Street and the French Quarter. I just thought it would be someplace close that the girls could take a car ride to."

Charlie put his arm around his wife’s shoulders and hugged her. "Don’t be so modest, honey. I know you spent half the night on the Internet, searching for hotels." He looked up and smiled. "Martha’s a whiz on the computer. She can find just about anything."

"She sure is," Travis agreed. "We found this wonderful old hotel, the Hotel Monteleone, right in the French Quarter. With a quick phone call, we were able to get their nicest suite for the week. I think the girls will be pleasantly surprised."

Anna Leigh’s eyes widened. "I’ve heard of the Monteleone, Travis. It’s quite elegant. I can’t imagine what a suite would cost for an entire week, especially on such short notice."

"You don’t want to know," Martha groaned. She pointed a finger at the older man and shook it. "But you’re going to let us know how we can pitch in, aren’t you?"

Although he had more money than he could ever spend, Travis understood where Martha was coming from. They had all agreed to join forces for the girls’ honeymoon, and he knew that if he offered to pay for everything, the rest of the family would be terribly upset. "Well, the room is already paid for, but I think we can come up with something."

Jacob jabbed him in the ribs with an elbow. "Good answer, my friend," he whispered.

Before another word could be spoken, the waitress returned, bearing their meal on a large tray. "All righty, everyone. Here you go." She placed the appropriate plate down in front of each of them and then scuttled away.

***************

The morning and afternoon dragged along for Lex, who had spent the majority of the day on horseback. Morris and Kevin had each offered to ride with her, but she preferred to spend the time alone, covering a large portion of the ranch. She had found herself at the creek, not too far from where Amanda’s Mustang had been thrown into the water. Lex stared into the slow moving water, her mind drifting back to several months before. The animal beneath her stretched out his neck and shook his head, snorting. "I hear you, Thunder." She stepped down from the saddle and dropped the reins, allowing the horse to walk away and graze.

"It looks so peaceful, now," the rancher muttered, bending down and picking up a rock to toss into the water. She stood on the bank, fighting the sudden onslaught of memories. Seeing the small car washed into the raging creek, the race to pull the unconscious woman from the vehicle, and the pain of the debris slamming into her as she swam back across, carrying the young woman on her back, Lex dropped to her knees as she thought about how that day could have turned out. If she hadn’t been repairing the fence at that exact place, that very moment, they could have just as easily pulled Amanda’s body from the car days later. "Dear God," the shaken woman gasped, wrapping her arms around her body and bending forward. Lex felt tears of loss fall from her eyes, as she imagined a life without her lover.

Lex had no idea how long she had knelt there, but was brought back to the present as Thunder butted her in the back with his nose. Wiping her face with her shirtsleeve, she stood up and scratched the curious equine between the eyes. "Thanks, buddy. Guess I’m on emotional overload today, huh?" Lex checked her watch and sighed. "Guess we might as well head back to the house. Mada will give me a whipping for sure if I miss dinner."

After brushing the stallion until his coat gleamed, Lex slowly walked back up to the main house. She knew that she was still early for the evening meal, so she continued to walk until she stepped onto the large wraparound porch. The new swing was in place along the front of the house, and Lex heaved a sigh of relief as she dropped her weary body onto its padded surface. Stretching her long legs out in front of her, the tired woman leaned back and pulled the front of her black cowboy hat down over her eyes. Quiet footsteps alerted her to someone else’s presence, but she stubbornly refused to acknowledge them.

"Uh, Lex?"

Damn. She sat up and raised the brim of the hat back. "Hey, Morris. What can I do for you?"

He looked at her uncertainly. "I saw you ride back to the house, and when you didn’t come inside, I was worried. Are you okay?"

Lex rubbed her eyes with one hand and exhaled heavily. "Yeah, I’m all right." She patted the empty space next to her. "Have a seat."

"Thanks." Morris accepted the rancher’s offer and sat down beside her. They sat in silence for several minutes before his hands began tapping a nervous tune on his thighs.

"What’s on your mind?"

Morris looked at her innocently. "What makes you think something’s on my mind? Maybe I just wanted a bit of fresh air," he theorized, his hands continuing their rapid thumping.

Rolling her eyes, Lex reached over and grabbed his hands. "Yeah, right." When she thought it was safe to release him, she removed her hands and leaned back against the swing. "C’mon, Morris. You’re as nervous as a nun in a whorehouse. Spill it."

"God," he laughed, "you’re something else, Lex." The veterinarian turned so that he could look directly into her eyes. "I was wondering if I could bring someone else to the wedding tomorrow."

"Oh? Friend or family?"

He bit his lip. "Family, actually."

Confused at the older man’s nervousness, Lex studied him carefully. "Family?" Her eyes narrowed. "Just what part of the family are we talking about?"

"My sister," he mumbled.

***************

Amanda watched through the back door glass as several workmen puttered around in the back yard. Since the weather forecast called for clear skies, they were already setting up everything for tomorrow’s ceremony. She didn’t hear the footsteps behind her, and almost screamed when a large hand grasped her shoulder gently.

"Sorry, squirt. I didn’t mean to frighten you," Frank apologized. He peeked over her shoulder. "Looks like they’re about done, huh?"

"Yeah," she mumbled.

He had just come from the living room, where Anna Leigh had asked him to talk to her granddaughter. She told him how Amanda had moped around the house all day, not even showing any interest in arguing with her sister. "Want to go for a walk? I have it on good authority that dinner isn’t going to be ready for another half hour, or so."

Why won’t everyone just leave me alone? Although she felt like snapping at her brother-in-law, Amanda sighed, "I guess."

"Try and contain your enthusiasm," he teased, taking her hand and leading her through the house. "I’m not that bad of company, am I?" Frank opened the front door and bowed. "After you, ma’am."

The blonde walked slowly down the steps, never releasing his hand. "You’re fine, Frank. I guess I’m just not in much of a mood for company."

"You should be bouncing off the walls, Mandy. I thought you’d be more excited about tomorrow." Frank led her down the sidewalk, gently swinging their linked hands. "Are you having second thoughts?"

"No!" Looking at her feet, Amanda shook her head. "I love Lex with all my heart. I can’t wait until tomorrow."

Frank stopped. He reached down and lifted her chin with his free hand. "Then why have you been so sad today, honey?"

"You’ll laugh."

"Try me, squirt. We’ve been friends for a long time, haven’t we? Have you ever known me to laugh at something that was important to you?" The ex-football player shook his head. "I’d never make fun of you, Mandy."

Looking into his earnest face, Amanda knew what Frank said was true. Unlike her sister, he had never broken a confidence, and had never teased her when she spoke her heart. "I hurt inside," she whispered, tears pooling in her eyes. "I miss Lex so much, and we’ve only been apart for less than one day." The feel of his gentle fingers wiping away her tears caused Amanda to fall against the big man and burst into sobs. "I feel like such an idiot."

"Shhh. It’s okay, sweetheart." Frank wrapped his arms around her. "You’re not an idiot, Mandy." He gently rocked the crying woman. "I think it’s nice to see someone so much in love."

"You do?" she sniffled, leaning back and wiping her face with one hand.

He nodded. "Sure." Pulling a handkerchief out of his back pocket, Frank took a moment to wipe the tears from his friend’s face. "I hope Lex realizes how lucky she is."

Amanda smiled. "I’m the lucky one." She accepted the handkerchief from him and gently blew her nose. After placing the cloth in her pocket, Amanda took his hand and began walking again. "You should see the way she looks at me, Frank. Those gorgeous blue eyes practically sparkle with love."

"I’ve seen that," he admitted. "When you came out to California, and we were in that bar. She looked across the room and practically glowed. After I saw who she was looking at, I knew that you were in good hands."

"Yeah," the younger woman sighed. "And her voice can just melt me. Lex can say the sweetest things." She continued the walk, feeling her spirits lift.

***************

"Are you out of your ever-lovin’ mind?" Lex bellowed, jumping up from the swing to stand over the smaller man. She clenched her fists, fighting the urge to gather him up and toss him over the porch railing.

Morris held up his hands. "What do you…oh, no!" He reached up to touch her arm. "Wait, Lex," he pleaded, as she turned around and started to leave.

The angry woman felt his hand grab the back of her shirt, and she spun around and slapped him away. "Don’t touch me," she growled. Lex could feel her control slipping, but she couldn’t stop the words from leaving her mouth. "Of all the people in the world, you should understand why I don’t want to see that woman. You know how much Amanda means to me, and yet you want to bring the woman who almost killed her to our wedding?" She raised one fist and held it close to his face, her entire body trembling at holding back.

"Wait, Lex, please," Morris begged, taking his life in his hands and gently wrapping his fingers around her fist. "That came out all wrong. I’d never invite Elizabeth to any family gathering, unless it was her own sentencing," he tried to joke. "I was talking about one of my other sisters…Christina."

"Christina?" Lex echoed as she blinked several times to get her bearings. "You have other sisters?"

He nodded. "Yes. Two others, as a matter of fact. Paula, and Christina."

Lex looked at her fist, which was still held tightly in his. "Oh. Jeez, Morris. I’m sorry. I should have let you explain, before I threatened you like that." She sat back down on the swing, even more exhausted than before. I can’t believe I went off on him like that. I’ve got to get myself under control. Ducking her head, Lex stared at her boots in shame.

"Hey, don’t apologize." Morris sat down next to her and patted Lex on the leg. "I should have been a bit more clear, myself. I didn’t know that you hadn’t heard of my other sisters."

"Yeah, well. I could have just asked, before almost knocking you off the porch," she muttered, still embarrassed.

Morris laughed. "Well, no blood was shed, and no punches were thrown. I’d say we both survived just fine." He draped one arm around the back of the swing, pulling the rancher close. "Let me tell you about my family, so we won’t have any more misunderstandings, all right?"

"Sure." She still wouldn’t look at him.

"Once upon a time, in a land far away…let’s call this land Los Angeles," he decreed. "Anyway, there was this king and queen." Morris leaned over and whispered in the tall woman’s ear. "Actually, he was a shipping tycoon, and she was a society matron, but I digress."

Unable to help herself, Lex laughed.

"Good. Now, where was I? Oh, yes. The king and queen were very happy. Or, at least as happy as two people could be, that were told they had to furnish a male heir to their very wealthy and nasty sovereigns. So, just a bare six months after they were wed, a child was born to them. Paula was a very sickly baby, and soon drove all the hired help wild with her demanding ways." He covered his mouth in feigned shock. "Imagine the surprise of all when another child was born, a little over a year later."

Lex laughed again and shook her head. "You’re crazy."

A happy smirk was her only answer. "Elizabeth was the surprise child. You’d think people with that much money would know what causes such things, but…" He shook his head sadly. "Since they still had no son, the couple waited a few years before trying again. I suppose two royal brats were too much for them, for a while. Anyway, several years later, another daughter was born. Christina was the sweetest of children, yet constantly tormented by the evil older siblings. She soon learned how to hide in plain sight, or better yet, go along with whatever the others asked of her." His face saddened at the thought.

"That’s a shame," Lex sympathized, knowing exactly what Christina had gone through. Her own brother treated her like his personal punching bag when they were growing up. Lex learned to either stay away from him, or pick something up and use as an equalizer, such as a large stick or rock. "Since you’re sitting here, I see that they finally succeeded in producing a male heir," she teased, trying to lighten the mood.

"So true, dear lady. But, alas, by the time the son they wanted came along, he was no longer needed. Another branch of the family tree had the requested male heir, and I was but an afterthought." He laughed. "Not to mention that the son looked better in heels than the eldest daughter. I swear, my sister Paula is what you would call a handsome woman."

Snickering, Lex leaned back in her seat. "Handsome?"

"Oh, yes. Believe me, she’d look much better pulling a hansom cab than dressed in a ballroom gown." Morris broke out in laughter at his own joke. "She looked just fine before her last face lift. But now her eyes are pulled so far back on her face, she has to turn her head to see something with both of them."

Lex laughed so hard she fell off the swing. "Damn, Morris," she wheezed from the ground, "next time warn me before you say something like that." She looked up in surprise when the front door opened and Martha looked out.

"Lexington Marie, whatever are you doing lying on the porch like that? Get yourself up and go get cleaned up for dinner." Martha turned around and stomped back to the kitchen, muttering under her breath about crazy kids.

***************

"Where on earth have you two been? We’ve been worried sick," Jeannie scolded. She had been sitting on the front steps reading a magazine, and jumped to her feet when her husband and sister walked across the lawn.

Amanda bent down and picked up the magazine. It was one of those women’s rags that had tips on how to keep your husband or boyfriend happy, and was opened to a "rate your mate" quiz. "I can see you’ve just been beside yourself," she teased, glancing at the questionnaire. Hmm. Looks like old Frank has his work cut out for him. Better not tell my sister how Lex would rate - - she’d be jealous.

Jeannie saw what her sister was looking at. She blushed and jerked the paper out of Amanda’s hands. "Gimme that!"

"What’s the matter, honey?" Frank asked, knowing how his wife loved to take the quizzes. He caught her shredding her answers one time, and learned that she was always too embarrassed for anyone else to see them.

"Nothing!" she snapped as she stomped into the house.

The two people left standing on the porch looked at each other and burst into laughter. "Sisters," Amanda chuckled. "Can’t live with them, can’t kill ‘em." She linked her arm through Frank’s and followed the upset woman inside.

"You two are just in time," Anna Leigh greeted from the kitchen doorway. "Jacob just put the finishing touches on dinner."

"Thanks, Gramma. We’ll go upstairs and get washed up." Amanda waved at the older woman and hurried up the stairs with Frank on her heels, both of them still laughing.

During dinner, Jeannie continued to glare at her sister. Her sullen attitude kept Amanda in high spirits, and the younger woman couldn’t help but tease her. "You know," Amanda said in between bites of food, "Lex and I took one of those magazine quizzes one time." She looked across the table at Frank, who almost choked on his food.

"Which quiz was that, dearest?" her grandmother asked, glad for the conversation. She couldn’t understand what was wrong with Jeannie, but was thankful that Amanda seemed to be in a better mood.

"You know, the one in the last month’s edition of the one Jeannie reads. To see how compatible we were in bed."

Jacob sputtered, having just taken a drink from his water glass. "Are you sure you want to share that bit of information with us, Peanut? I’d think that would be a little personal, don’t you?"

"Yeah," Jeannie agreed, glaring at her sister.

Amanda laughed again. "Aw, c’mon. It’s all in fun." She winked at her brother-in-law. "You’re curious, aren’t you?"

"Sure," he agreed. "Ow!" The sharp pinch to his thigh caused Frank to cut his eyes at his wife. "Whatcha do that for?" he whined.

Jeannie huffed and tossed her auburn hair back over her shoulder. "No reason, big mouth." She looked at her sister and sighed. "Okay. So go ahead and tell us how compatible you two are, like we don’t already know," she grumbled.

"Well," Amanda put her fork down and looked around the table, "Lex took the test first, and scored almost a perfect high score. It said that she shouldn’t be too close to combustible materials, because she’s so hot." She winked at Frank. "I’ll have to agree with them on that one."

"Oh, for God’s sake," Jeannie moaned, "spare me the details."

"You’re just jealous," the blonde taunted.

Frank looked up from his plate, indignant. "Hey!"

Amanda shrugged and cast him a pitying glance. "No offense, Frank."

"None taken, I guess," he pouted.

Anna Leigh stifled a laugh at the antics of the younger people. "Children, please. No fighting at the dinner table." She waved a hand at Amanda. "Go ahead, dear."

"Thanks, Gramma." She gave her sister a snotty look. "As I was saying, before I was so rudely interrupted, Lex rated so high on their scale, she should be encased in ice to protect everyone else around her."

Jeannie made a gagging sound, but didn’t say anything.

"What about you?" Frank asked, his curiosity peaked.

"Me?" Amanda blushed, suddenly very shy. "I did all right."

Her sister tossed a pea across the table at her. "Oh, no, Miss Smarty Pants. You’ve gone this far. Finish your story."

Amanda bit her lip and looked down at her plate. She could feel her face growing redder by the minute. "I scored…" The last few words were mumbled, and unintelligible.

"What’s that? I didn’t quite hear you," Jeannie quipped, cupping one ear with her hand and leaning over. "Speak up."

"I said, I scored one point below Lex," Amanda almost yelled, then looked around the table in horror as her words almost echoed in the quiet room.

Frank smiled broadly. "No wonder Lex is so happy," he joked. "You go, girl."

The young woman jumped up from the table and fled the room in embarrassment.

Jeannie slapped her husband on the arm and jumped up as well. "Now look what you’ve done," she chastised, following her sister from the room.

***************

Kevin looked across the table at Lex, who was picking at her food. He leaned over and whispered in his partner’s ear. "So? Did you ask her?"

"Sorta," the redheaded man acknowledged. "We were called in for dinner before we got finished."

"I’m not deaf," Lex muttered, glaring at the two men across from her. "Tell me more about your sister, Morris."

Charlie exchanged glances with his wife, who shrugged her shoulders. She looked at Travis, who appeared to be as confused as they. "Sister?" the sheriff asked.

Morris nodded. "Yes. I asked Lex if it would be all right if I asked my sister Christina to the wedding. Although she hasn’t seen Mandy since her high school graduation, we’ve kept in touch." He placed his fork beside his plate and looked around the table. "I was pretty much kicked out of the family that day, and both Elizabeth and our oldest sister Paula threatened to make life miserable for Chris if she went against their wishes."

"Why now? Isn’t she still afraid of them?" Lex asked, still trying to decide if it would be in Amanda’s best interests for another family member to suddenly show up.

"You all know how Liz was," the veterinarian started. "She and Paula ruled over our family like they were some sort of royalty. Christina often bore the brunt of their tyrannies, and over the years she found that it was just easier to go along with them. But now that Elizabeth is locked away, she really wants to get to know Mandy again." He smiled at the dark-haired woman. "And you, too. When she found out that you owned a ranch, she practically begged me to get permission for her to visit. Chris just loves horses."

She can’t be all bad, then, Lex decided. "How does she take your relationship with Kevin? I don’t want another homophobic woman harassing Amanda."

Kevin laughed. "Uh, well…considering her inclinations, I don’t think you’ll have much of a problem." Seeing the understanding cross the rancher’s face, he nodded. "Although their marriage was pretty much on paper only, finding her husband with the gardener really upset her. After she divorced the bum, Christina moved to Boston, presumably to start over. But she actually stayed with us for a while, until she met Samantha. I think Chris was as surprised as we were when she realized she was gay."

"Samantha, huh?" Lex grinned.

Martha patted Morris on the arm. "Does she want to bring Samantha to the wedding with her? I’m sure we have enough room for two more."

"That would be great! Let me give them a call. They’re staying in a hotel in town, just in case." Morris jumped up from the table and hugged Lex. "I can’t wait to see the look on Mandy’s face." He hurried from the room to use the phone.

"Me neither," Lex sighed. "I can’t wait to see her, period."

***************

Finding Amanda’s door closed, Jeannie paused for a moment. Maybe she wants to be left alone. Hearing her sister’s sobs, she knocked lightly on the wood. "Mandy? C’mon, let me in," she pleaded quietly. The door was unlocked and slightly ajar.

"Go ‘way."

"No." Feeling like a first-class heel, the older woman pushed the door open and stepped inside. The room was dark, but she could just make out her sister’s form lying across the bed. "Mandy, please, talk to me." Without permission, Jeannie sat down next to Amanda and placed her hand on the crying woman’s back.

The gentle touch only made Amanda cry harder. "I don’t think I can do this, Jeannie," she sobbed, her face partially buried in a pillow.

Oh, God. I was afraid of this. She wants to back out of the wedding, but doesn’t know how. "Oh, sweetie. Let me help." She stroked the blond hair tenderly. "Do you want me to break it to Lex for you?"

"No, I don’t want to upset her." Amanda sniffled and rolled over onto her back. "She’d probably drive over here in the middle of the night."

Jeannie’s pulse quickened. I didn’t think that they had that kind of relationship. It’s worse than I thought. "Are you afraid of her, Mandy? We can always have the whole family with you, if you want."

What? Amanda reached over and turned on the bedside lamp. She looked up at her sister in confusion. "Jean-Louise, what on earth are you babbling about? Why would I be afraid of Lex?"

"You said you can’t do this. I thought you were talking about the wedding."

"Oh, for Pete’s sake!" Amanda slapped her sister’s leg and began to laugh. "I meant that I didn’t think I could go until tomorrow without some contact with Lex."

The older woman laughed along with her. "I didn’t think you two had a relationship like that, but you’ve been acting really weird today. What was I supposed to think?"

Amanda sat up and pulled her sister into a hug. "Thanks, Sis. Even though you’re misguided at times, I still love you."

"Thanks, I think." Jeannie leaned back and grinned. "So? What are you going to do? Sneak out of the house like a teenager?"

"Probably not. But if I don’t at least talk to her tonight, I’ll lose my mind," Amanda admitted.

***************

Lex stared up at the ceiling, unable to sleep. After dinner, she had gone back down to the stables and brushed all the horses, stacked new hay in the barn, and even polished her boots. She had been wandering around in the den after midnight when her grandfather found her and sent her to bed. "Treating me like a child," she grumbled, crossing her arms over her chest. Whipping the bedcovers off of her, Lex was about to get up when the phone rang. A quick glance at the clock showed one-thirty, and she hurriedly grabbed it before it woke anyone. "Hello?"

"Lex?" a small voice whispered.

"Yeah. Amanda? Is that you?" Lex sat up in bed and leaned back against the headboard. "Why are you whispering?"

"Because I don’t want to wake anyone up. I’m afraid Gramma wouldn’t let me talk to you, and I missed you."

"I miss you too, sweetheart," Lex admitted, lowering her voice for no reason other than to match the other woman’s whisper. "Are you okay?"

A sniffle from the other end of the phone. "I’m fine. Just missing you like crazy. I’ve almost driven my family insane today with my mood swings," Amanda admitted with a small chuckle. "I think Jeannie was on the verge of having me committed."

Lex closed her eyes and soaked up her lover’s voice. "I’ve been just as bad," she confessed. "I rode out to the bridge today, remembering when we met."

"Oh, lord. That was pretty wild, wasn’t it?"

"Yeah. It was the best day of my life," the rancher murmured.

"Really? Even with the broken ribs?"

"Uh-huh. I wouldn’t change one second of our time together, love." Lex felt a lump form in her throat. "Every minute with you is precious, Amanda. I treasure them all."

There was a quiet throat clearing on the other end of the phone, as Amanda tried to control her emotions. "I love you, Lex."

"I love you too, Amanda. Do you think you can get some sleep, now?" As much as she wanted to keep her lover on the phone, Lex knew that tomorrow’s events would be tiring. "You wouldn’t happen to know what happened to my nightshirt, would you? The last time I saw it, I had left it on the bed this morning."

"I accidentally packed it." A smile could be heard in the quiet voice. "I’m wearing it, as a matter of fact."

Lex shook her head and laughed. "Well, at least I know it’s being put to good use," she teased. She looked at the silky gown that was bunched up around her own pillow. "I’ll take good care of yours, too."

"Thanks," Amanda laughed. "Goodnight, honey. I love you."

"Goodnight, love. I’ll see you tomorrow." Lex waited until she heard the phone click before she hung up. With a satisfied sigh, she pulled the nightgown up to her face and drifted off to sleep.

Chapter 22

The morning sun struggled through the window shade, inching its way across the down-filled pillow in search of eyes to shine into. Hitting its mark, the bright streak showed no mercy. With a disgusted groan, Amanda grabbed her pillow and rolled over. Minutes later, the gentle knock on her door caused her to growl, "Go ‘way."

"I’m sorry, dearest. But you asked me last night to wake you this early," Anna Leigh reminded her. She was swathed in a colorful cotton bathrobe, the lavender flowers that covered it going well with her beautiful silver hair. Sitting down on the bed next to her granddaughter, Anna Leigh pulled the pillow away from the younger woman’s face and shook her head. "You don’t want to miss your wedding day, do you?"

Amanda grumbled and rubbed her eyes. "Of course not." She blinked several times and sat up. "What time is it?"

"Almost nine, sweetheart. Since you were up so late last night, I did let you sleep in this morning." Her hand reached up and began to comb through Amanda’s unruly hair. "How was Lexington?"

Green eyes widened in alarm. "How did…" Amanda shook her head. "Sometimes I swear you have the house bugged, Gramma. I never could hide anything from you." She pulled her pillow up to her chest and sighed. "She wasn’t doing any better than I was. But we had a really good talk before we went to sleep."

Anna Leigh chuckled and placed her hand on Amanda’s cheek. "I’m glad, dear. You could have called her earlier, you know."

"But I thought we weren’t supposed to - -"

"The tradition is to not see each other before the wedding, Mandy. I don’t think it meant you couldn’t talk on the phone." Feeling sorry for her granddaughter, the older woman patted her on the leg. "Come downstairs for breakfast. I’m sure your intended will be calling again soon."

Amanda smiled. "She’s already called this morning?"

"Oh, yes. Around seven, if I remember correctly. Jacob told her that as much as he valued true love, he wasn’t about to wake you up before nine."

"She’s so thoughtful," the blonde sighed with a dreamy grin.

Her grandmother laughed. "She’s impatient, I think." Anna Leigh started to stand, but was pulled back down by Amanda.

"Thanks, Gramma. For everything." Amanda gave the older woman a fierce hug and kissed her on the cheek. "I love you."

Struggling to keep her tears at bay, Anna Leigh pulled her out of bed. "I love you too, dearest. Let’s go downstairs and see what your grandfather has whipped up for you on your wedding day."

***************

"Lexie, quit your pacing around and sit down," Martha commanded, tired of watching the tall woman stomp around the kitchen. She carried a plate full of food over to the table and set it down.

The rancher turned away from the window and checked her watch. "It’s almost nine. Maybe it’s okay to call, now." She started to leave the room when her belt was grabbed from behind.

"You’ll do no such thing, young lady." The agitated housekeeper dragged Lex across the room and pushed her into a chair. "Now eat your breakfast before it gets cold."

"But - -"

Sitting down next to the younger woman, Martha placed a hand on her arm. "No buts, honey. Today is going to be crazy, and this may be the only time you have to sit down and eat."

Lex lowered her head and stared at her plate. "I know you’re right, Mada, but I don’t know if I can keep any food down right now. It feels like a team of horses is stomping through my stomach."

"Honey, that’s just nerves talking. I felt the same way on my wedding day," Martha laughed.

"Really?" Blue eyes raised, pleading for reassurance.

Martha nodded. "Oh, yes. As a matter of fact, if you didn’t have such a strong grip on me when we were walking down the aisle, I probably would have fallen flat on my face."

Lex laughed, feeling relieved. "It’s good to know I’m not losing my mind, then. I wasn’t this nervous the first time I tried to break a horse."

"Well, of course not, sweetie. You weren’t going to spend the rest of your life with the horse." The housekeeper stood up and patted Lex on the shoulder as she walked by. "Just remember why you’re doing this, and you’ll get through the day just fine."

"God, I hope so," Lex mumbled. She dutifully began to put food in her mouth, not tasting a thing. I hope Amanda is doing better than I am.

***************

Amanda glanced down at her plate and sighed. "Tell me again why I’m doing this?" she requested of no one in particular. When she had come downstairs a short time earlier, she had gently refused any type of food, telling her grandfather that she was afraid it wouldn’t stay down.

"Because if you don’t eat now, you’ll pass out during the ceremony," Anna Leigh admonished her. "Just try a few bites, dear. You really do need to put something in your stomach."

The big man sitting across from the two women studied Amanda carefully. "You look kind of tired, Mandy."

"I didn’t get much sleep last night," she grumbled to her brother-in-law.

Jeannie nodded knowingly. "Ahhh. Scared?"

"No."

"Nervous?" Frank asked, helpfully.

"Lonely, actually," the blonde sighed. She picked up a forkful of scrambled eggs and stared at them. "Do I like these?"

Jacob stood behind her and put his hands on her shoulders, rubbing them gently. "Normally you do, Peanut. Would you rather I make you something else?"

Amanda shook her head. "No, this is fine, Grandpa. I just don’t have much of an appetite." She began to slowly bring food to her mouth, chewing automatically. When the phone rang, she dropped her fork and jumped from the table. "I’ll get it!" The young woman raced from the room and headed to the den, where she could have more privacy. "Hello?" Amanda answered, breathless.

"Amanda? Are you okay?" Lex’s concerned voice poured over her like a relaxing balm.

Curling up in a large chair in the corner of the room, Amanda sighed happily. "I am, now. Let’s never do this again."

"What? Get married?"

"No, silly. Sleep apart," Amanda corrected her. "I’ll marry you every day for the rest of our lives, as long as I don’t have to leave you."

There was a short silence on the other end of the line. "That’s the best idea I’ve heard in a long time, sweetheart," Lex finally said, her voice soft. "God, I miss you."

Amanda closed her eyes. "I miss you, too." She was content to sit and listen to her lover breathe. "Only a couple of more hours, Lex. Think we’ll make it?"

"Of course we well," the rancher assured her. "The wedding will be a cinch. It’s the reception afterwards I’m not looking forward to."

"Why not? It’s just a little party for the people who won’t be at the wedding itself."

Lex sighed. "Exactly. And we’ll have to stay, and visit, and make small talk, and…"

The blonde giggled. "And we won’t be alone until later this evening, right?"

"Yeah."

"Don’t worry, love. We’ll have some time alone if I have to sneak you out the back door and make out in the truck." Amanda smiled at that thought. Before she could say anything else, the front door opened and she heard her father’s voice.

"Where’s the beautiful bride-to-be? I’ve got something for her," Michael yelled. He didn’t see her in the den, and walked into the kitchen to search for his youngest daughter.

"Was that your dad?" Lex asked, knowing that their phone call was about to be cut short.

"I’m afraid so, honey. I guess we’d better start getting ready, huh?"

Silence from the other end of the phone, then Lex cleared her throat. "I guess," she grumbled.

Amanda could almost picture the pout on her intended’s face. I wish I were there to kiss those pouty lips. "Lex? C’mon, hon. In just a couple of hours, we’ll see each other again. And I don’t intend to let you out of my sight."

"Okay," the rancher sighed. "I guess I’ll see you then." She paused for a short moment. "I love you so much, Amanda."

"I love you too, Lex." She waited, but the other end of the line was still open. "You need to hang up, honey."

"You hang up first," Lex said childishly.

Good grief. "I love you," Amanda whispered, gently pushing the button on the phone to disconnect the call. I hate being the grownup, sometimes. With a heavy sigh, she stood up and went in search of her father, wondering what he had brought for her.

***************

After she hung up the office phone, Lex leaned back in her chair and closed her eyes. She could almost feel Amanda’s gentle touch, and she ached with needing to see her lover. "God, help me get through this day," she whispered, swallowing the lump that seemed to have taken up residence in her throat since yesterday. A quiet knock at the door caused her to open her eyes.

"Lexie? Are you all right, honey?" Martha stood in the doorway with a worried look on her face.

"Yeah." The rancher yawned, standing up and stretching her arms over her head. "Just having a bout of self-pity." She reached out and pulled the startled housekeeper into a bear hug. "I don’t know what I’d do without you, Mada."

Martha returned the hug, concerned about the younger woman. "No place else I’d rather be, sweetie."

"How can a person become so dependent on someone else in such a short amount of time?" Lex asked. "I don’t feel complete without her here," she whispered.

"That’s what love is all about, baby. As much as it hurts sometimes, there’s no greater feeling in the world." Martha turned and placed one arm around Lex’s back. "C’mon. Let’s go get you dressed for this shindig."

Lex nodded. "Good idea." She leaned down and kissed the top of the housekeeper’s head. "I love you, Mada. Thanks for always being here for me."

"I love you too, honey. Let’s get you upstairs," Martha directed, leading the way out of the office.

***************

Her sister caught Amanda outside of the den and proceeded to pull the smaller woman upstairs. "Hey,wait! I heard Daddy come in," she cried, fighting to break the grip on her arm.

"Yes, you did. Gramma told me to get you upstairs and dressed, and he’ll be up in a little while to see you." Jeannie stepped into Amanda’s room and closed the door behind them. "You wasted a lot of time on the phone, you know."

"It wasn’t a waste of time," Amanda defended, finally shaking off the death-grip Jeannie had on her. "What’s the big hurry?" She looked at the clock next to the bed and her eyes widened. "That clock isn’t right, is it?"

Jeannie nodded. "Yep. You two sat and listened to each other breathe for almost an hour. And you haven’t even had your bath, yet." She began to untie the bathrobe that Amanda wore, pulling her hands back as they were slapped away.

"Stop that. I’m perfectly capable of undressing myself," the blonde muttered, fussing with the knot. "Blast it!" Amanda struggled with the heavy tie, finally giving her sister a pleading look. "Well, don’t just stand there. Help me," she cried.

Downstairs, Michael sat at the kitchen table with the rest of the family. He kept turning around and glancing back into the foyer, while playing with his coffee mug. "I never thought I’d see this day," he admitted quietly. "My little girl getting married."

Frank bristled at the comment. "Why? Because she’s gay?"

"No, no," Michael assured him. "Because she just never showed any interest in anyone." How would I have known? I was so wrapped up in myself, she probably could have gotten married and had several children before I realized it.

Seeing the distant look on the older man’s face, Frank reached out and touched his arm. "Hey, Mike. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you."

Michael looked at his son-in-law and smiled. "You didn’t. I was just kicking myself for being out of touch with my family for so many years."

"That’s all in the past, son," Jacob assured him, patting the younger man on the hand. "You’re here now, that’s the important thing." He looked over at his wife, who nodded. "Why don’t you go on upstairs and see your daughter? I’m sure she’d like to share this day with you."

Standing up, Michael reached out and squeezed his father’s shoulder. "Thanks, Dad." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small jewelry box. "If you all will excuse me, I’m going to go give my daughter a present on her wedding day."

Halfway up the stairs, Michael almost ran into Jeannie. "Hi, honey." He wrapped her in a firm hug, which she happily returned. "After we get your sister married, I hope you have plans for spending time with your old man."

"Of course, Daddy. We don’t have to be back in California until next week, so we thought we’d just take a mini-vacation while we’re here." She kissed his cheek and pulled away. "Go on up. She’s dressed already."

"Thanks, sweetheart." He continued his trek up the stairs, until he found himself standing outside of Amanda’s door.

***************

"Would you just look at you," Morris gasped, as he walked around the quiet woman. He and the other men had been waiting downstairs in the den while Martha helped Lex get ready. "Honey, you look positively radiant."

Lex’s eyebrow raised at the older man’s words. Her dark hair shone. and Hanging loose around her shoulders, it spilled gently onto the ivory jacket she was wearing. At her request, Martha had taken the slacks up slightly, but they still draped delicately on her slender hips. She held her arms out while Martha continued to fuss over the fit.

"Honey, these pants are loose. I swear, if you don’t start eating better, I’m going to - -" The housekeeper’s words were stopped by a gentle hand to her mouth.

"Mada, please. They fit fine, really. Don’t worry so much." Lex looked down into the concerned brown eyes and smiled. "You know I can’t eat when I’m nervous. After today, you’ll probably have to let out all of my pants."

Travis chuckled as he stepped closer. "Especially if you eat everything Martha cooks. I swear I’ve gained several pounds since I moved in here." He put his arm around his granddaughter’s shoulders. "It’s about time we leave, Lexie. You ready?"

She nodded. "As ready as a person can be, Grandpa." Looking around the room, she counted heads. "I don’t think we can all fit in the truck, though."

"No need to worry, sweetheart. I’ve already taken care of that," Travis assured her. He led the way to the front door, opening it and gesturing ahead. "You first, Lexie."

Travis’s large white limousine was parked in the driveway, the uniformed chauffeur holding the rear door open. Lex turned to her grandfather and shook her head in disbelief. "When did…how…what…"

He guided her down the steps slowly. "You don’t think I’d allow my only granddaughter to drive herself to her own wedding, do you?" He turned around to the others who stood on the porch gaping at the long car. "There’s more than enough room for us all. Come on."

***************

The bedroom door opened, and Michael became speechless. His youngest daughter stood in the doorway, her hair pulled up on top of her head with tiny tendrils falling against her neck. "You…you look, beautiful, sweetheart," he finally uttered as she pulled him into the room and closed the door.

"Thanks, Daddy." Amanda sat down on the bed and patted the space beside her. "I’m so glad you’re here."

Michael sat down and took one of her hands in his. "Me too, angel. I, uh, brought you a little something for today." He reached into his pocket and pulled out the jewelry box. "I saw these in a window, and they looked like something you’d like." He handed the box to her and held his breath, hoping he’d done the right thing.

"Oh, Daddy, you didn’t have to get me anything," Amanda whispered, opening up the box and peering inside. The light hit the earrings and caused them to sparkle. "They’re beautiful."

"They’re half-carat channel set diamond hoops," he supplied helpfully. "I was afraid that anything bigger would pull your ear off."

Amanda looked up into her father’s eyes. "Thank you."

He shrugged. "I know they’re not much, but - -"

"No. Thank you for being here," she said, wrapping her arms around him and burying her face in his neck. "I love you, Daddy."

Michael fought back his tears. "I love you too, baby." They sat holding each other for a few minutes before he pulled back and smiled. "Why don’t you put your earrings in, and then we’ll wait for them to call us. I thought I heard a car door slam a couple of minutes ago."

***************

"What’s taking so damned long?" Lex demanded, pacing back and forth in the den. "I’m here, I know Amanda’s here. Why can’t we get this show on the road?"

Travis watched his granddaughter in amusement. He had already chased everyone else out to the backyard until it was just the two of them. "Calm down, honey. They have to make sure everyone is seated before the ceremony begins." A timid knock on the doorframe caused them both to turn around.

"I’m sorry to disturb you," Ronnie stammered, "but the Reverend says he needs the rings."

Lex looked down at her hand, where her ring rested on her finger. "Oh, yeah. I forgot all about that." She took a deep breath and pulled the white gold adornment off. That’s the last time I’m letting this ring leave my finger, she vowed. She wordlessly handed it to her grandfather, who in turn gave it to the young man at the doorway. "Thanks, Ronnie."

He nodded. "Thanks for having me here, Lex. I know how important today is to you." Ronnie turned to leave when his arm was grabbed from behind. "What?"

"You’re right. Today is probably the most important day of my life. That’s why I wanted to be surrounded by my family," she told him. Lex put one arm around his shoulders. "You’re a part of this family, now. I’m proud to have you here."

"Thanks, Lex." He fought back tears of happiness and wrapped the rancher in a bone-jarring hug. "Being a part of this family is the best thing that has ever happened to me." Pulling back, he held his fisted hand up near his face. "I’ll just get these out to the reverend, now." Ronnie quickly scurried from the room, leaving behind a much calmer Lex.

Travis put his hand on his granddaughter’s shoulder. "That was a nice thing you said to him, honey."

"I meant every word, Grandpa. He’s a good kid."

Another knock and Morris stood at the doorway. "They’re ready for you," he announced, smiling and heading back outside.

Lex hugged her grandfather and took a deep breath. "Thanks for not giving up on me, Grandpa. I just wish Grandma Lanie were here, too."

"She is, honey," he said, leaning back and tapping her gently on the chest. "Right here. Now, let’s go get you married."

***************

Ronnie stood at the back door and smiled. He nodded at Lex and Travis, and stuck his head outside and waved one hand. The signal given, the small quartet that the Caubles had retained began to play a soft rendition of classical music. Lex and Amanda had both decided they didn’t want the traditional wedding march played, but instead agreed to a subtle string melody. Since neither wanted to play the "male" role, it had been decided that they would be escorted separately to the minister by a member of their family.

Lex held on to her grandfather’s arm tightly, now understanding what Martha had meant about passing out. I can’t believe I’m this nervous. This is ridiculous. She smiled at the housekeeper as she made her way up to the front of the aisle. Travis kissed Lex gently on the cheek. "Be happy, honey." He turned and sat down next to Martha, while Charlie stood up beside the tall woman as her "best man".

All eyes turned back to the door, as Michael began to escort Amanda down the steps. Lex felt her breath catch in her throat as she caught sight of the blonde for the first time. She smiled as she realized that they had each picked out similar outfits, the only difference being that hers were slacks while Amanda’s was a knee-length dress.

Michael stopped in front of the rancher and grinned, tears of happiness escaping from his eyes. "Take care of her," he choked out, giving Amanda’s hand to Lex and kissing the tall woman on the cheek. "I love you, baby," he told his daughter, kissing her and going back to his seat.

Amanda handed her bouquet of flowers to her sister, who stood off to her left as her maid of honor. She turned back around and smiled at Lex as they both turned to face the minister.

"Friends and family, we are all gathered here today, in the sight of God, to celebrate the union of these two people." Reverend Hampton smiled down on the couple. They had requested an abbreviated ceremony, and he was more than happy to oblige. "To make my job easier, they’ve decided to recite their own vows. Lexington Marie." He handed Lex her grandmother’s ring and nodded.

Lex cleared her throat nervously. Her mind went blank, and then she looked into Amanda’s eyes and smiled. "Amanda. You’re my best friend, and I love you with all that I am. I promise to cherish every moment we have together, to listen to and encourage you, to be there beside you in good times and in bad times. I promise to take care of you if you’re sick, and laugh with you when you’re happy. I promise to always put you before anyone else, and never take you for granted. These promises and more I give to you always, now and forever." With a shaky hand, Lex placed the ring on Amanda’s finger, looking back up into her lover’s watery eyes. "I love you."

Amanda could barely contain the tears of happiness that were threatening to cascade down her cheeks. As Lex withdrew her fingertips after the wedding ring was in place, Amanda began to speak. "If someone had told me a year ago that I'd be standing here, feeling what I do now, I'd have never believed it. But here I am, and I feel wonderful. When I look at you, I see every dream I've ever had come true. You are the love of my life, Lex." Amanda lifted Lex's hand to her mouth and kissed her ring finger, then slowly began to place the wedding ring there. "I promise you," Amanda began, nearly too choked up to continue, "I promise you my heart, my love, and my life because you are all those things to me.' The tears that she'd been holding back ran freely down her face. Lex was overcome as well, and Amanda concluded her vows in the comfort of her partner's arms. "Forever, Lex. I will love you forever."

Reverend Hampton smiled broadly at the couple. "That was beautiful, ladies. Now the fun part," he whispered. "Go on, seal it with a kiss."

Smiling, Lex reached out and cradled Amanda’s face in her hands. "I love you," she whispered, leaning forward and gently touching their lips together. She pulled back after a moment, and laughed when the blonde captured her face and pulled her back for another kiss.

"I love you too, Lex," Amanda murmured after they broke apart. Both looked back up at the minister, who began to laugh.

He looked out among the small gathering and held his arms open wide. "You have all witnessed the beginning of their lives together. May I present the happy couple, Lexington and Amanda."

The string quartet broke into song, playing their version of the Corrs’ "Runaway". Their families immediately surrounded both women, as everyone began to talk at once. Congratulations and celebratory hugs were passed around amid laughter and happy tears.

Morris tapped Amanda on the shoulder. When she turned around, her eyes grew big. "Aunt Christina?" she cried, embracing the woman next to her uncle. "I can’t believe you’re here."

The smaller woman accepted the embrace happily. "You can thank Morris for that," she told her niece. Her once plump figure had been replaced by an almost athletic build, and her light brown hair had been colored and was short and neatly styled. She reached beside her and grasped another woman’s hand. "I’d like for you to meet my partner, Samantha Moore."

"Congratulations, Amanda. It’s really nice to meet you," the other woman offered, holding out her hand. She was a few inches taller than Christina, and her shoulder-length blond hair was streaked with gray. "I’ve heard a lot about you from your uncle."

Partner? Amanda grinned. All right, Aunt Christina! She accepted Sam’s hand, then pulled the older woman into a hug. "Welcome to our family, Samantha. I hope we’ll get to know you a lot better."

A few feet away, Janna shook Lex’s hand and pulled her into a hug. "Congratulations, my friend. I hope you both enjoy the best life has to offer, for many years to come."

"Thanks, Janna." The dark-haired woman stepped back and smirked at her friend. "So, when are we going to be invited to yours?"

"W...w…what?" Pale blue eyes widened in alarm. "I don’t know what you’re talking about."

Lex nodded. "Uh-huh. Just remember, I want an invite." She was about to torment the older woman more, when Michael interrupted.

"I’m sorry, Lex. But Mom wants to go ahead and get all the pictures out of the way before you two go and change."

"Me? Change?" the rancher teased. "Nah. You’re stuck with me just the way I am, Dad." She wrapped an arm around his shoulders and winked at her friend. "Remember what I said, Janna," she said as Michael led her away.

Barbara walked up beside Janna and grasped her hand. "What was that all about?"

"Huh?" Janna turned her head and looked at her friend. "Um, nothing. She’s just giddy with relief, I think. Want to go watch them cut the cake?"

"Sure," Barbara agreed, a confused look on her face.

After all of the pictures had been taken, Jacob stood next to a large table and waved his hands over his head. "Excuse me, everyone! If I can have your attention, please." Once the guests had gathered around, he pulled Lex and Amanda forward. "We thought you could cut the cake here, and that would leave you free to socialize more at the reception." Handing them a large knife, he placed both women behind a large, three-tiered white cake.

"It looks almost too pretty to cut," Lex mused aloud. She looked at her partner, who smiled up at her. "You ready?"

Amanda nodded. "Yep." Her hands were entangled with Lex’s on the handle of the knife, and together they brought the blade down in slow motion.

Cheers and catcalls were heard from the people watching, as the couple was encouraged to feed each other a piece of cake. Amanda took a slice first, raising it slowly to the rancher’s mouth. With an evil grin, just as she was about to place the cake on Lex’s lips, she smeared it all over the bottom portion of the tall woman’s face.

Lex licked her lips slowly. "Not bad," she smacked, reaching down for her own piece. With cake still falling from her face, she raised a portion up to Amanda’s face and gently fed her. When the crowd booed, Lex smirked and leaned down to kiss her wife, making certain that her face rubbed Amanda’s thoroughly.

"Cheater," Amanda growled, bits of frosting and cake falling from her chin. She reached up and swiped at Lex’s face. Then, using her most sultry voice, she teased, "We’ll finish this later," and gave Lex a lascivious grin and a wink, much to the crowd’s delight and Lex’s embarrassment.

***************

Feeling large hands grab her from behind, Amanda almost screamed as she was pulled into the darkened kitchen at the Ladies Auxiliary Hall and pinned against the wall. Warm lips covered hers, and she raised her hands to run them through her captor’s hair.

"I’ve been wanting to do this for hours," Lex growled once they broke apart to breathe. "If one more guy tries to dance with you, I’m gonna start breaking legs!"

Amanda sighed, dropping her head to rest on her lover’s chest. "I know what you mean. Nobody said that half the town would show up." Her eyes adjusted to the semi-darkness, she reached up and caressed Lex’s cheek. "What do you say we tell our family goodbye and go home? I really want to get our honeymoon started."

Lex nodded in agreement. "That’s the best idea I’ve heard all day. But first - -" She leaned down and once again covered Amanda’s mouth with her own.

Ten minutes later, both women stepped out of the kitchen, their faces flushed and their clothes in partial disarray. Lex tucked her blue cotton shirt back into her jeans, while Amanda ran her fingers through her hair to straighten it. They spied the majority of their family at a nearby table and headed towards them.

"I know what you two have been up to," Jeannie teased.

Amanda glared at her sister. "Grow up, Jean-Louise. You’re just jealous." She looked at Frank. "No offense."

"None taken," he winked.

His wife tossed her hair over one shoulder in disgust. "Why would I be jealous?" Lex leaned down and whispered something in her ear, causing Jeannie to blush furiously. After the rancher pulled away, the auburn-haired woman fanned her face with one hand. "Never mind."

"What did you tell her?" Amanda asked in a whisper.

Lex winked. "I’ll tell you later." She stood behind Travis and placed her hands on his shoulders. "Folks, as much fun as we’ve had today and this evening, I think Amanda and I are about to leave."

Jacob exchanged grins with Travis and looked up at the happy couple. "So soon? But it’s only six o’clock. You know the party has just begun."

"We know." Amanda stood next to Lex with her arm around the taller woman’s waist. "But to tell you the truth, we just want to be alone for a while."

Anna Leigh stood up, as did the rest of the table. "We can certainly understand that, can’t we?" She waved to get Martha and Charlie’s attention from across the room. The other couple made their excuses and headed to the table.

"Don’t tell me," Martha said, walking up and standing next to Lex. "You two newlyweds are ready for the honeymoon.

The rancher blushed. "Mada, please."

"Well, if you girls are that set on leaving, at least let us walk you out," Travis offered.

Not seeing a reason to argue, Amanda nodded. "Sure."

As the group stepped outside, the long white limousine stood by, the driver holding the rear door open. Lex turned to her grandfather and smiled. "Thanks, Grandpa. I kinda forgot how we got here. It’s a long walk back to the ranch."

"About that, Lexie," Travis grinned. "We all got together and decided that you girls needed a proper honeymoon."

Lex shook her head. "Now, Grandpa - -"

"It’s not completely his fault, dear. After such a beautiful wedding, don’t you think the two of you deserve a week to yourselves?" Anna Leigh interrupted. She prodded her husband, who pulled something out of his jacket pocket.

Amanda accepted the envelope tentatively. "What’s this?"

"That’s your confirmation page that I printed off the computer," Martha added proudly. "You shouldn’t need it, but we wanted you to have it just in case."

"Confirmation?" Lex looked at her grandfather. "We’re not flying, are we?"

Travis shook his head. "No, sweetheart. We wouldn’t do that to you. Or Amanda," he teased.

"Then what…?"

Jacob stepped in. "You’re staying a week in a suite at the Hotel Monteleone, in New Orleans," he announced happily. "It’s all taken care of."

The newlyweds looked at each other in shock. "New Orleans?" Lex asked. "How are we supposed to get there?"

"In the limo, of course," Travis assured her. "Room service is included, and the driver’s cellular number has already been programmed into your phone," he said, handing the phone to Amanda. "He’ll be at your disposal for the entire week. You’d better keep up with this, honey. We know how Lexie is."

"But…" Lex stammered. "What about our clothes?"

Charlie put his arm around his wife. "All packed, in the trunk."

Amanda began hugging everyone individually. "Thank you so much! I don’t know what to say," she sniffled, while Lex followed behind her and also gave everyone a goodbye hug.

"Say goodbye," Jeannie teased, pushing her sister at the car. "I want to go back inside and dance."

"Goodbye, brat," Amanda yelled good-naturedly from the doorway of the car, pulling Lex in behind her.

The driver closed the door and saluted the family, hurrying around and climbing in behind the wheel.

Once they were on the road, Amanda leaned back in Lex’s arms as they leaned across the back seat together. She had her eyes closed but wasn’t sleeping. "Whatcha doing?" she asked, knowing that her lover had been quiet for several miles.

"Just thinking," Lex admitted, while she watched the passing scenery through the window. The sun was beginning to set, and the red and orange sky was soothing.

"About what?"

Lex tightened her hold on the smaller woman, rubbing her cheek against the blond hair. "I was just thinking how much I wish Dad could have lived to see today," she murmured wistfully.

Amanda shifted slightly, so that she could look up into the troubled blue eyes. "I’d like to think he did, love."

"What do you mean?"

"These past few months, you two had really gotten closer. He knew how important this day was to you, honey. I’ll bet you anything that he was looking down on us today, probably with your mom and grandmother."

Wanting to believe, Lex swallowed the lump in her throat. "Do you really think so?"

"I certainly do," Amanda admitted. She brushed the dark hair away from Lex’s eyes and smiled. "Why don’t you close your eyes and think about your dad? It’ll make you feel closer to him."

Lex placed a gentle kiss on her wife’s lips. "I will. Thank you." She leaned her head back and closed her eyes, picturing her father as he was when she was younger. Tan, fit, and riding the old dun gelding that he was so fond of.

They had ridden for a while in silence, Amanda dozing lightly on Lex’s chest. The rancher opened her eyes and gazed out at the sunset, blinking when she saw a rider in the distance. The man was riding a dun-colored horse, the way he sat achingly familiar to her eyes. As she watched, he raised one hand to her and spurred the horse on over the horizon. "Thanks, Dad," Lex whispered, feeling herself at peace at last. She buried her face in the blond hair beneath her chin and fell asleep, as the limousine drove them to their future.

The End