Page 71 of A Cowboy to Call Her Own

Now he was home again. And breathing easier. Asher carried his suitcase into the house and heard water running in the kitchen. He veered that way and found Big E standing at the sink, a cup of coffee cradled in his hands.

“Welcome back.” Big E’s smile was slow and knowing. “This is unexpected. I thought we were having a phone call with the potential buyer for River Run, not an in-person meeting?”

“I changed my mind.” About a few things. But he would get to those in time. Asher set his suitcase down and continued, “I don’t want to sell River Run.”

Big E placed his coffee on the island, took another mug from the cabinet and poured a cup for Asher. Handing it to Asher, he said, “I get the impression you have a lot on your mind.”

Asher took a deep sip, then realized he was still restless. Caffeine would not help. He gripped the mug and paced around the kitchen. “River Run and I have a sort of bond.”

“And you don’t just trade that away,” Big E stated.

“Exactly.” Asher paused. “I want to give River Run his second act.” And perhaps have one for himself.

“That sounds like it’s not only River Run who will be sticking around here.” Big E tipped his head toward Asher’s suitcase. “I guess my next question is where are you putting that this time around?”

Asher curved his fingers around the coffee mug. “I thought I might try a bedroom this time around.”

Big E’s grin drifted out. “Then you’re thinking of staying for more than a bit.”

“I was thinking more likefor good.” Asher leaned in to the promise. It felt like he was finally going in the right direction.

“That’s the best news I’ve heard today.” Big E lifted his coffee mug in a toast.

“The day has barely gotten started,” Asher said, a tease in his words.

“Don’t make light of it,” Big E cautioned. “Your father would have been proud of you. I know I am.”

That settled inside Asher, not lightly, but rightly. As if the words fit. He intended to keep on making them proud.

“This place needs a Blackwell caring for it. Looking after it,” Big E continued. “You will do well by it.”

“I hope the staff agrees,” Asher said, a hint of uncertainty in his words.

“Prove to them you mean to stick.” Big E put a hand on Asher’s shoulder. “Show them how much you care, and they won’t doubt you or your intentions.”

“I should get changed so I can get to work on that.” Asher picked up his suitcase and turned toward the bedroom wing.

Big E stopped him and said, “I cleaned out Walter’s room, painted and changed the furniture.”

Asher turned to look at Big E and asked, “Why?”

“To get it ready.” Big E met Asher’s gaze and held it. “For the next generation.”

Asher looked away, then nodded and turned toward the private wing for the primary bedroom suite.

Big E said, “Of course, you can change whatever you like, it’s yours now. And you’ll be wanting to update the other rooms I’m sure, but you’ve got time for that.”

He did, didn’t he? Asher stepped into his parents’ old bedroom and stopped short. He didn’t recognize it. The light gray walls, white trim and neutral tones were gentle to the eye and welcoming. The natural wood furniture and other fixtures everything he preferred.

Asher set his suitcase in the walk-in closet and headed toward the French doors and patio. An old-school-style notebook on the dresser caught his attention. There was a handwritten note stuck to the cover.Asher, seeing is believing. Found this in your dad’s office.

He picked up the notebook and sat on the padded bench at the end of the king-size bed. Opening the cover, Asher found another note, this one from his father.Asher, you’ve always gone your own way. Cowboy to cowboy, I respect that. But this father misses his son. Here’s hoping you find your way home one day. Dad.

Asher squeezed his eyes closed, but that only acted like a dam, backing up his tears so when he blinked, they all fell at once. The scrapbook turned out to be a photo album of Asher’s highlights growing up. Each picture was labeled and dated in his father’s handwriting. In the back was a collection of articles written about Asher during his years in New York.

It was a bittersweet, but necessary walk down memory lane. He knew there would always be regret for not making the time for one last conversation with his father. And he would always miss his twin. But for the first time, Asher was at peace in his family home and knew he was where he belonged.

Big E tapped on the door and said, “I’m heading down to the stables. Wanted to see if you are ready?”