The Rancher's Prospect by Callie Endicott

Author:Callie Endicott
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2016-07-31T16:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER ELEVEN

TARA WAS BUSY every possible minute over the next week, which was the way she liked to be.

Between party preparations, she finished shifting boxes and other miscellaneous stacks in her search for current paperwork. It was amazing the spots she found things tucked out of sight, old mixed with new. Of course, the most intriguing items were the documents and ledgers from over a hundred years ago, including a Bible with a singed cover. Walt’s eyes had gleamed when she’d told him what she’d found so far.

“I wonder if my great-grandfather’s journal is around anyplace,” he’d mused. “My mother thought it was lost when the first house burned.”

Tara had winced, thinking of the history that might have gone up in flames, but she was eager to explore whatever had survived. Both she and Walt had discussed whether they’d find information about the sapphires and what to do if they did.

By Saturday everything was in good shape for the big event. Huge tents had been erected, and the largest barn would be used for dancing. In addition to the pasture prepped for parking, another had a softball field laid out in it. Horseshoes, croquet and volleyball were also available, along with portable bleachers for people who just wanted to watch the various athletics.

Lauren hadn’t wanted to go, but Tara convinced her to attend. They arrived before the official starting time, and her sister’s eyes widened as they wandered around. The serving tables in the food tent were weighed down with platters and bowls from the caterer and partygoers, the barn was strung with Japanese lanterns, and a country band was already playing.

Tara grinned at her sister’s wide-eyed surprise. “Pretty good, isn’t it, to get this together in such a short time?”

“No wonder you were busy.”

“To be honest, everyone was so enthusiastic about this event, there was practically a stampede of people getting involved.”

A tall cowboy immediately claimed Lauren for a dance, and Tara went looking for Walt, only to see Josh talking with a couple of women. She instantly turned the other direction and found Walt sitting with his daughter along the barn wall.

He struggled to his feet. “Here’s the gal who pulled this all together,” he announced.

“Nonsense,” Tara declared. “I simply did what you said. Everyone else was just waiting for the okay.”

Sarah McGregor pulled her into a huge hug, and Tara caught her breath; it was warm and sincere, and for a split second it was the way she’d always imagined a mother’s embrace might feel. It was a foolish, sentimental fancy, something she usually avoided.

“Thank you,” Sarah murmured. “You’ve been good for Dad.”

Unexpected emotion filled Tara’s throat, but before she could say anything, Sarah straightened and waved at her son approaching them.

“Josh, take Tara for a dance. She deserves it after all her hard work.”

“That’s what I came to do.”

Tara couldn’t tell whether he was sincere or if a hint of sarcasm tinged his voice.

Together they joined the crowd of couples.

“You don’t need to dance

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