Page 45 of A Redemption Mountain Christmas
“I’ll figure it all out.”
“I’ve got an idea,” Booker said, his mouth tipping up at the corners.
Lucien didn’t return the slight smile. “I’m listening.”
“Julia’s comfortable here. She feels safe, likes the people. She even went to church for the first time since we were young.”
“Did she drag you along?” Ford asked.
Booker chuckled. “Tried. Julia’s relentless when she gets an idea in her head.”
“It’s a matter of time.” Ford grinned.
“Afraid it might be.”
Lucien drummed fingers on the table, waiting, considering what to do after getting the children. “And Julia?”
Taking a swallow of coffee, Booker set the cup down. “I’ve got some money tucked away. Julia needs a place to live away from a saloon. You and your kin need a place.” He shrugged as if the solution was obvious.
Ford barked out a laugh. “How long has it been since you shared a house with someone, Lucien?”
He thought of his wife and daughter, knowing they were a topic for another time. “Not since leaving home.”
“Seems Booker’s come up with a fine idea.”
Standing, Lucien grabbed his hat, settling it low on his head. Heading to the door, he turned back, narrowing his gaze on Booker.
“Might work.”
The bitter wind whipped at Lucien’s face as he and Booker rode the winding trail toward the Pelletier ranch. Their breath came in icy puffs, vanishing in the chill. Pulling his coat tighter, he anticipated the warmth of the ranch house awaiting them.
His thoughts turned to Booker’s suggestion about combining their money to buy a house large enough for everyone. AsLucien mulled it over, hope began to rise in his chest. Having a permanent home could allow him to locate his daughter. A chance at a new life, a stable life. It was a tempting idea.
They crested a small rise, and the sprawling Pelletier ranch came into view. Lucien took in the sight. The large two-story ranch house with smoke curling from several chimneys, the big barn, and several smaller outbuildings made an impressive sight.
They rode to the front of the house and dismounted. Lucien paused, steadying himself as he prepared for the reunion. His nephew and niece were here, family he hadn’t seen in years. How would they react to seeing him again after so long?
Anticipation and nervousness twisted Lucien’s insides. He wanted this to go well. With a deep breath, he nodded to Booker, and they approached the front door.
Rachel Pelletier opened the heavy oak door, stopping short at the sight of the two unfamiliar men on her doorstep. She studied them with curious eyes, taking in their solemn expressions.
“Afternoon, ma’am,” the taller one spoke, dipping his head respectfully. “Name’s Lucien Hunt. I’m looking for Tommy and Sherilyn.”
Rachel’s eyes narrowed. “And what business do you have with the children?”
Before Lucien could respond, Eliza Gladstone joined Rachel at the door. The doctor eyed the men with equal wariness. Lucien cleared his throat.
“I’m their uncle. Their father was my brother.”
Rachel and Eliza exchanged a surprised look.
“You’ll forgive us for wanting some proof of your claim,” Rachel said.
Lucien nodded. “Of course. I’ll explain everything, if you’ll allow me to come inside.”
Rachel considered a moment before stepping back and gesturing them in. “All right then. Please come in.”
The two men stepped into the warmth of the house. Eliza helped relieve them of their coats and hats before leading them into the parlor. Rachel fixed Lucien with an expectant look.
