The Cowboy’s Claim (Men of Copper Mountain #7)

Epilogue

I ndie–one week later

The night air on Devil’s Peak is sharp and cool, wrapping around me like a whispered secret. The stars above are brilliant, scattered across the inky sky like diamonds spilled from a careless hand. I draw in a deep breath, the crispness grounding me, but it’s the sight of King standing at the edge of the clearing that steadies my heart.

He’s facing away, his broad back to me, framed by the soft glow of the string lights Zane and Winter hung earlier. His stance is relaxed but commanding, like he owns this mountain, this moment, this world. And he does—he owns me, too, though he’d never demand it. That’s what makes it impossible not to give him everything.

“Cold feet?” Zane teases from beside me, his deep voice laced with humor.

“Never,” I reply, my voice steady. “I’d marry him in a blizzard, barefoot.”

Zane chuckles, shaking his head. “Good. That’s the kind of woman he needs.”

Winter adjusts my shawl over my shoulders, her hands warm against my skin. “You look perfect,” she says softly, her eyes shining. “He’s not going to know what hit him.”

I glance down at my simple ivory dress, the fabric whispering around my legs in the faint breeze. It’s nothing like the elaborate gowns I used to see in the glossy magazines my mother shoved in front of me, but it’s me. Soft, understated, and just enough sparkle to catch the moonlight.

When I step forward, the slight crunch of snow beneath my boots seems to echo in the stillness. King turns, his eyes finding mine instantly, and the rest of the world disappears. The breath leaves my lungs in a rush. He’s in a dark shirt, sleeves rolled to his elbows, and jeans that cling to his muscular frame. No tux, no tie—just him, rugged and real. His beard catches the soft light, and his piercing eyes hold mine with an intensity that makes my knees weak.

“Damn,” he murmurs, his voice low and rough as I approach. “You’re gonna ruin me, woman.”

I feel my cheeks heat, but I manage a teasing smile. “You don’t look so bad yourself.”

He steps closer, his hand sliding to my waist as if he can’t help himself. “You ready for this?” His thumb brushes the curve of my hip, a barely-there touch that sets my pulse racing.

“I’ve been ready since the moment you rode up on that horse,” I say, my voice soft but sure.

His grin is slow and wicked. “Careful, Indie. I might start thinking you’re just in this for the cowboy fantasy.”

“Maybe I am,” I shoot back, but the warmth in my tone gives me away.

Zane clears his throat, stepping forward with a grin that says he’s enjoying this far too much. “If you two are done with the foreplay, we’ve got a wedding to get to.”

I laugh, the sound easing the tightness in my chest, and step into place across from King. His hands find mine, calloused and warm, grounding me in the moment.

Zane begins, his voice steady but laced with his usual humor. “We’re gathered here under the stars to witness something most of us thought we’d never see—a Steele brother tying the knot.”

Laughter ripples through the small group of family and friends gathered around us, their faces lit with smiles. I glance at Margie, Zane’s mom and find her wiping at her eyes, and Flint and Juniper, who are standing suspiciously close together. Juniper set up her tripod and camera so we can bring the video back to Copper Mountain for Aunt Betty and King’s family to watch our wedding ceremony.

Zane continues then, his words weaving a story of love, resilience, and belonging that brings a lump to my throat.

But it’s King’s vows that undo me.

“I never thought I needed anyone,” he begins, his voice deep and steady, eyes locked on mine. “I was fine with the mountain, the ranch, and being alone. Then you showed up in Copper Mountain, Indie, with your big heart and your fire, and you showed me what I was missing. You’re my home. My everything. And I swear to spend the rest of my life making you as happy as you’ve made me.”

My breath catches, and I blink rapidly to keep the tears at bay. I squeeze his hands, my voice trembling as I begin my vows.

“I came to the mountains looking for a fresh start, for peace, and for a place to call home. What I found was you, King Steele. You’re my calm and my storm, my greatest adventure. I promise to stand by you, to love you fiercely, and to never stop believing in the magic of us.”

His eyes shine with emotion, and when Zane declares us husband and wife, King doesn’t wait a second before pulling me into his arms. His kiss is searing, a brand, a promise, and a celebration all rolled into one. The cheers around us fade into the background as he holds me close, his lips claiming mine with a hunger that sets my skin aflame.

“You’re mine now,” he murmurs against my mouth, his voice low and possessive.

I smile against his lips. “Always.”

Later, the clearing is filled with music and laughter as we celebrate under the stars. King keeps me close, his arm draped around my shoulders, his lips finding excuses to brush against my temple, my hair, my cheek. Every touch is a promise, every glance a reminder that I’m his.

“Dance with me,” he says suddenly, his voice low in my ear.

I turn to him, raising a brow. “You dance?”

“For you, I’ll try.”

He leads me to the center of the clearing, pulling me into his arms as a slow song drifts through the air. His hand rests low on my back, his movements sure and steady as he guides me.

“You’re good at this,” I murmur, my fingers brushing the back of his neck.

“Don’t spread that around,” he says, his lips twitching in a smirk. “I’ve got a reputation to protect.”

I laugh softly, leaning into him, letting the world fall away until it’s just us, swaying under the stars.

When the song ends, he takes my hand and leads me toward the edge of the clearing, away from the crowd. The air is colder here, the silence deeper, but his presence is a fire that keeps me warm. He stops and turns to me, his gaze heavy with meaning.

“I meant what I said, Indie,” he says, his voice rough. “You’ve changed everything for me.”

I step closer, sliding my hands up his chest. “And I’d do it all over again just to get here with you.”

His eyes darken, his hands finding my waist and pulling me flush against him. “You’re all I’ll ever need, Mrs. Steele.”

His kiss is slow and deliberate, a claiming that leaves no doubt of his intentions. When he finally pulls back, his forehead rests against mine, his breath mingling with mine in the cool night air.

“Let’s get out of here,” he says, his voice a low rumble, “I’m sick of sharing you with everyone. Need you all to myself, baby.”

I laugh softly, letting him lead me back toward Devil’s Peak Lodge, my heart full and my future brighter than the stars above.