The spread’s small size meant it proved manageable and with Cole away so often this fact was a godsend. Yes, Julia would have preferred more space for their horses and the two barns required urgent fixing, but all in all nothing would be too daunting over the coming months. Even as the winter took hold, the snow from the mountain tops encroaching downwards to nibble at the outer edges of the fields, she felt comfortable and safe.
Sometimes, if he was not on duty, Sterling Roose would ride over from town and keep her company. She liked Sterling and, now that he had completely forgiven her for laying him out cold when she helped Burroughs to escape, they were good friends, sharing stories and laughter over freshly made coffee. She’d feel a tug at her heart when Cole’s friend would announce
