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Fifty-one
Last Updated:
2022-09-05 12:05:02Related chapters
Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Fifty-two
Word of her return had come in quickly. The buzzing of gossip followed me everywhere and even though people no longer mentioned her name when I was around I knew by the look in their eyes who they were talking to. She had arrived hours ago, and most likely was in bed by now. Staring at the darkened house told me everything I needed to know. Her father's second heart attack had finally drawn her home. But she didn’t seek sanctuary at my house, no she’d chosen her old home. Funny, it was mine but that was semantics. Ours was a set-to-fail relationship, she was too tame and I was too wild, for a second she almost got me to settle, to care but the more I cared and the more I wanted to get away. I didn’t blame her for running away from me and adding to it the constant calls from Cynthia. The arrangement had been her idea but it had stayed with me days later, and when she said no. That got me thinking, a pretty wife and land because she was pretty, too pretty and innocent. Had she staye
Last Updated : 2022-09-13Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Fifty-three
After letting Buddy out for the second time I leave her locked inside my room while I prepare breakfast for Cameron. He barely says a word as I move about the kitchen. His eyes are full of curiosity, but he occupies himself with the black cup of coffee as I finish the eggs and toast. “Where’s your shadow?”“Upstairs.”“Don’t worry about me, let her out.”“She gets too riled up in new spaces, once you’re gone I will let her explore.” Once the steamy plate of eggs touches the table he pulls in and thanks me. We might not have been able to get along before but now we can at least civil towards each other. He praised my food and I smiled, we talked a little about nothing at all and then continue eating in silence. “McKinnon came by.” Until he said that. I froze, my fork in mid-air, his expression serious. “He almost walked into your bedroom.” An awkward silence followed until we both heard a loud bark coming from upstairs. “Buddy.” He nodded. “That would have stopped anyone.”I had b
Last Updated : 2022-09-22Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Fifty-four
It was like a sixth sense, I felt it. Being watched. My window outlook the side of the house, towards the back road, and in the darkness all was visible were the silhouettes of the trees. The set snow shone under the moonlight. The red fiery dot was what gave him away. It could have been anyone but my gut told me it was him. Leaning onto the big oak that once had a tire swing hanging from his big branches. I watched him for a few minutes, trying to guess what he wanted but it was obvious. The cold immediately made me regret stepping outside. “Sit,” I told Buddy before closing the door behind me. The porch was nude, aside from the two old rocking chairs on the left. I waited until he apparated from the shadows, flicking the cigarette to the side and watching its light disappear on the cold ground. He was dressed in a warm winter coat and leather gloves. “Wife.” He said, his voice thick. “Husband.” He kept walking forward until there was any space between us. I felt his gaze taki
Last Updated : 2022-09-24Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Fifty-five
What a couple of years can change or that’s what I thought as I watched the scenery in front of me. We were no longer heading towards the house I almost called home for six months, instead, we just passed it and continued north. Behind the tall trees, a big two-story structure could be seen from the distance. Apparently, he bought the old Rice place and with that united the land from what it seemed. Which meant that he had been very busy while I had been gone. The big house had pillars on the front, a big circular driveway, and a huge lawn, all was covered in snow but still, I could see that once summer came it would be covered with flowers and shrubs. The massive house became larger and larger as we came closer, he stopped a few feet from the entrance, and without a single word, he got out and proceeded to call someone. Soon two people appeared from the darkness, my suitcase was already sitting on the wet ground when I hopped out. Grabbing Buddy by her collar I stood frozen watchin
Last Updated : 2023-01-17Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Fifty-six
The silence is unnerving, as the seconds go by I try to tell myself that he fell asleep, that he just didn’t hear. He’s choosing to ignore me. That’s it. My ears are ringing, all the blood is rushing through my head. The moment of braveness is gone, just as soon as the words slipped out. I’m blinking trying to see the shapes in the darkness, I know he’s next to me. I can feel him. He’s right there, but neither of us moves. The whole room seems as if it was charged with electricity. Tension maybe is me. Maybe I wasn’t loud enough for him to hear, I’m constantly having one-way conversations but that mostly happens when Buddy is in the room. God, who hasn’t said something? Minutes, maybe hours have gone by and he hasn’t moved or made a sound. When I rise he doesn’t react and when I pad slowly to the door and twist slowly on the knob he doesn't rouse. He’s dead to the world or a very good actor. The light on the other side is soft on my eyes but bright enough to catch the resentful
Last Updated : 2023-01-18Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Fifty-seven
Once I started talking I couldn’t stop.She dabbed her eyes with a crumpled paper napkin as I told her about Melanie’s last days, how Buddy was gifted to me, and how I couldn’t leave her after seeing how much she needed a friend.“Poor family.”“I wanted to come back, I really did but…”“I understand.” Our cups are half full most likely lukewarm, with the dog at my feet we conversed. I told her about my friends back in the little town. How Connie had taken me in and about my job and the kids. How much I loved my independence and how much I dreaded their hate. “But I could never hate you.”“Lacey,” I started licking my lips, tasting the salt of my tears. “She came and she definitely hates me.”“You had your reasons.”“He doesn’t want me.” There it is, telling one person doesn’t give me peace but lifts a little weight off my shoulders. “He just wanted the land.”“No, Rebecca, you can’t say that.”“He never touched me or treated me like his wife. We pretended for his sake and then the m
Last Updated : 2023-03-01Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Fifty-eight
Sunshine lights up the room. I frown as I try to recall last night's events. The blurry memories start building up slowly as I continue to stare into the hazel eyes that seem to watch mine. Andreas was sick, the power was out and now he looks at me with angry eyes, his eyes always look like he’s angry. At the world, at me. Mostly me.“Your dog is whining.” Oh shit. I didn’t set the alarm.Pushing myself onto a seating position I look around the room, the sheets sticking to the side of my face. My brain is hazy and my limbs are heavy. Last night was an adventure, walking in the darkness was nerve-racking. Shaking my head as I crawl off the bed, trying to get rid of the sleepy cobwebs around my brain.Putting on a thick sweater and rain boots I take Buddy’s leach and close the door behind me. She knows better than to pull while we walk down the path, I have little energy and she can read me too well. “I’m going to sit here and you enjoy yourself.” She looks at me with her big brown ey
Last Updated : 2023-03-03Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Fifty-nine
The big three in the backyard provided enough shadow for a picnic. The sun is out, is hot enough to sit on the plastic chairs laid out and enjoy the little warmth the day offers after days and days of rain.Buddy trots from here and there, while I skim the pages of a romance book. Looking over my shoulder every time I’m outside has become a habit, right now I know I’m safe but knowing he’s around on the property gives me a sense of anxiety. “Rebecca.” Buddy barks and runs toward the old woman. “I have been calling your name for a while now.”“I’m sorry, I was lost in my thoughts.”“I can see that.” She holds a big brown bag. Is Thursday, and she usually comes Wednesday but with guests staying at the old house she’s been busy.“What are we making today?”“Something simple, spaghetti, and vanilla muffins.” For two months she and I have our small meetings, girl's days. Sometimes Andreas drops us off. Ever since that comment, and John Clark being at the ranch he hardly ever leaves me
Last Updated : 2023-03-14
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Kingdom Ranch: Western romance One-hundred-and-four
Rebecca sat on her porch, covered in a warm blanket, as the first snowflakes of the season began to fall. Buddy, her ever-faithful companion, sat by her side, contentedly enjoying the quiet moment with her mistress. The previous year had been an emotional rollercoaster, but they had made it through together, stronger than ever.The love she shared with Andreas was worth every hardship they endured. If only Lacey were here to share her happiness. She couldn’t wait to tell her, but first Andreas.Just then, the sound of a car approaching broke her reverie. Andreas pulled into the driveway, his smile as warm as the fireplace awaiting them inside. He stepped out of the car and hurried towards her, his breath creating small puffs in the cold air."Hey, beautiful," he greeted her, leaning in for a sweet kiss.Rebecca's heart skipped a beat as she returned his kiss. "Hey, yourself," she replied with a grin. "You're home early."Andreas chuckled, his eyes filled with affection. "I couldn't wa
Kingdom Ranch: Western romance One-hundred-and-three
She watched, her eyes drinking in his naked form. He stepped towards her, his eyes never leaving hers. He pressed his lips against hers, kissing her hungrily. Their passion intensified as their bodies pressed against each other, and their tongues explored each other's mouths. The room filled with the sound of their heavy breathing, fueling their desire for each other.She opened her mouth eagerly for him, tasting him with her tongue.He moaned and began to kiss her again, moving his hands to her waist. She could feel the heat between them intensify as his hands explored her body, igniting a fire within her. With each kiss, their desire grew stronger, and their bodies became one in a passionate embrace.He pulled her closer to him, his hardness rubbing against her stomach. She could feel the heat emanating from between them, and she trembled. As their bodies pressed against each other, their breathing quickened, and the anticipation built. Their kisses grew more urgent, fueling the fla
Kingdom Ranch: Western romance One-hundred-and-two
His hand reached out, his fingers tracing a delicate path along her jawline, sending shivers down her spine. "I want you, too," he admitted, his voice husky. Rebecca's breath caught as his thumb brushed over her lower lip, and she leaned into his touch, her eyes fluttering closed. The intimacy of the moment and the electricity in the air made her feel more alive than ever. His fingers trailed down her neck, sending tingles of sensation wherever they touched. She could feel the heat between them, the anticipation growing with each passing second. Her hands found their way to his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heart beneath her fingertips. Andreas leaned in, his lips brushing against hers in a teasing, featherlight kiss. It was a promise of what was to come—a tantalising taste that left her craving more. She leaned in, deepening the kiss, their mouths moving together in a dance of passion. Their bodies pressed closer, the heat of their desire igniting like a wildfire. His ar
Kingdom Ranch: Western romance One-hundred-and-one
With a warm cup of tea in her hands, Rebecca watched as the sun fell below the horizon from a seat on the porch. The previous week had been a tornado of feelings and encouragement. Now that John was no longer a danger, she felt relieved, but the recollections persisted in the back of her mind. She inhaled deeply, attempting to shake off the residual anxiety. Andreas walked up behind her and placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. She looked up at him, offering a small smile. He had been her rock through it all, supporting her in every way possible. "How are you feeling?" he asked softly. Rebecca sighed, leaning into his touch. "Better," she admitted. "The weight feels a little lighter now that he's gone." Andreas nodded, his gaze full of understanding. "I'm glad you're safe," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "And I'm here for you, always." She reached up and touched his hand, a silent thank you passing between them. They sat in comfortable silence, the sounds of the evening
Kingdom Ranch: Western romance One-hundred
Rebecca’s heart pounded in her chest as she watched the flashing lights of the police cars in the rearview mirror. John had been trying to evade them for miles, but they finally caught up to them as they attempted to cross the state line. She begged him to stop, to give up, but he only revved the engine and pushed the pedal to the floor. The car swerved through traffic, cutting off other vehicles at a dangerous speed. Rebecca gripped the armrests, her knuckles turning white. She tried to reason with him, telling him that they would only make things worse, but he only laughed maniacally and continued to weave in and out of traffic. Suddenly, a loud bang echoed through the car, and the vehicle next to them spun out of control on the freeway. Rebecca’s head slammed against the window, and she let out a scream. Rebecca was panicking, looking out the window and watching the police cars in pursuit. John was driving recklessly, swerving and dodging as the car hit high speeds. "John, pleas
Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Ninety-nine
Andreas felt his heart racing as he picked up the book from the floor. It was one of Rebecca's favorites, and he knew she had been reading it before he left to run his errand. The rumpled sheet and Buddy's whining only added to his growing anxiety. He called out for Rebecca, but there was no answer. Panic started to set in as he frantically searched the house, but there was no sign of her. He tried calling her cell phone, but it went straight to voicemail. It was then that he knew that John had taken her again. Andreas felt a wave of anger and frustration wash over him. How could he let this happen again? He had promised to keep her safe, and he had failed. He felt a sense of responsibility and guilt for leaving her alone, even if it was just for a few minutes. He quickly pulled out his phone and dialed Sheriff Hughs' number. He knew he couldn't do this alone. The sheriff arrived quickly, and together they searched the house and the surrounding area. They scoured the nearby woods, b
Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Ninety-eight
Rebecca tried to calm herself down, taking deep breaths to steady her nerves. She couldn't panic; she needed to think clearly. She looked around the trunk, trying to find anything that could help her escape. But there was nothing, just some old blankets and a spare tire. She tried to open the trunk, but it was locked from the outside. She pounded her fists against the trunk, yelling for help, but she knew it was useless. Her mind raced with different scenarios, wondering where John could be taking her and what he had planned. She had to get out of there, but how? She thought of trying to break the taillight and attract attention, but she didn't want to alert John. She needed to come up with a plan that wouldn't put her in more danger. As the car continued to move, Rebecca's mind drifted back to the moment John had taken her. She thought about her options. She could try to kick her way out, but that would be difficult with her legs cramped in such a small
Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Ninety-seven
John had been sequestered in a small apartment in another state, watching the news constantly for any developments in his case. He was astounded by how quickly everything had degenerated since that evening. Despite his meticulous planning and careful execution, one slip-up caused everything to fall apart. He sorely missed Rebecca because of the way she made him feel alive by laughing at his jokes. He couldn't allow Andreas to separate from him for her. He had been working on a plan, biding his time until the right moment. He knew he couldn't just show up at her doorstep; that would only scare her away. No, he needed to be more subtle and strategic. He had to make her believe that he had changed and that he was a different person. He couldn't risk losing her again. He spent his days researching and gathering information about Andreas and his life. He needed to know his enemy. He needed to know what he was up against. John knew he had the advantage when it came to money, but Andreas w
Kingdom Ranch: Western romance Ninety-six
Andreas sat across from Sheriff Hughs in his office, worry etched deep in his features. They had been discussing John Clark and his ability to stay hidden for so long."He's got enough money to make it happen," Sheriff Hughs said, leaning back in his chair. "But what worries me is the possibility of him returning. You know what he's capable of."Andreas nodded grimly. "Rebecca's nightmares have diminished; she's sleeping better, but she's almost always looking behind her. I've noticed how she starts to have mini attacks whenever she finds herself alone. Not even Buddy has been able to keep her at ease."Sheriff Hughs sighed heavily. "I wish there was more we could do. We've had people keeping an eye out, but he's just too good at covering his tracks."Andreas clenched his jaw. "We can't let our guard down. I won't let him hurt her again."Sheriff Hughs nodded. "I know. We'll keep looking."Andreas stood up, ready to leave. "Thanks for the update, Sheriff. Let me know if you find anyth
