Embracing Hope (Cowboys of Sagebrush Rose #5)

Epilogue

Six months later

Each of the Rose sisters stood around the Christmas tree, tears flowing down their cheeks.

“I can’t believe he’s been gone for two months,” Freedom said between sobs.

“Nothing is the same without him,” Liberty sniffed loudly.

“Our first Christmas without him,” Honor dabbed a tissue at the corners of her eyes.

“Are you okay?” Hope asked Justice who held the custom-made ornament made in Sam’s honor.

“I-I think so. He would really like this ornament.” Justice lovingly touched the glass shaped horse with their daddy’s name etched on the front.

“Go ahead. Place it on the tree,” Liberty encouraged.

Justice found the perfect branch where all could see it. They came together to hug and then parted as they scattered off to join the husbands in the kitchen to finish Christmas dinner.

Hope stayed behind, taking in the beautifully decorated tree, remembering as kids how Daddy would make the holiday a spectacular event. She imagined that he and her mom were together again, celebrating Christmas together.

Comforting arms wrapped around her and she smiled. “Hi, hubby.”

“Hi, baby.” He gave her a squeeze and kissed her cheek. “Are you doing okay?”

“I’m doing good. I just needed a moment to absorb all that has happened.” She planted her palms against her growing belly. Their son would be born before she knew it. She couldn’t wait.

Isaac laid his hands over hers in a loving gesture. “Have I told you today that I love you?”

“Yes, but you can always tell me again.”

“I love you.”

She turned and laid her cheek against his chest, feeling so happy even through the sadness of the loss of her daddy. In the end, he got what he wanted. His daughters married. The merger was a success. And grandchildren. She’d be sorry that he’d never get the chance to hold her and Isaac’s son but she had a feeling he was here, surrounding his family.

Not the end but only the beginning