Just the sight of her sister made Dana instantly wary. She couldnt help but be mistrustful given
their past.
Her sisters gaze went to Danas stomach. Oh, my. Youre pregnant.
We need to get Dana in the house, Hud said, giving his sister-in-law a nod of greeting. Stacy opened the door and let them enter before she followed them in.
Dana found herself looking around the living room, uncomfortable that her sister had been inside the house even though it had once been Stacys home, as well.
The house was as it had been when her mother was alive. Original Western furnishings, a lot of stone and wood and a bright big airy kitchen. Dana, like her mother, chose comfort over style trends. She loved her big, homey house. It often smelled of something good bubbling on the stove, thanks to the fact that Hud loved to cook.
Dana preferred to spend her time with her children outside, teaching them to ride or watching a new foal being born or picking fresh strawberries out of the large garden she grewjust as her own mother had done with her.
As she looked at her sister, she was reminded of some of her mothers last words to her. Families stick together. It isnt always easy. Everyone makes mistakes. Dana, you have to find forgiveness in your heart. If not for them, then for yourself.
Her mother had known then that if anything happened to her, Jordan, Stacy and Clay would fight her for the ranch. Thats why shed made the new will.
But she must also have known that the will would divide them.
Its been a long time, Dana said, waiting, knowing her sister wanted something or she wouldnt be here.
I know I should have kept in touch more, Stacy said. I move around a lot. But shed always managed to get her check each quarter as part of her inheritance from the ranch profits. Dana instantly hated the uncharitable thought. She didnt want to feel that way about her sister. But Stacy had done some things in the past that had left the two of them at odds. Like breaking Dana and Hud up eleven years ago. Dana still had trouble forgiving her sister for that.
Stacy shifted uncomfortably in the silence. I should have let you know I was coming, huh.
Now isnt the best time for company, Hud said. Danas doctor has advised her to get off her feet for the rest of her pregnancy.
But Im not company, Stacy said. Im family. I can help.
Hud looked to his wife. Why dont you go. Its fine, Dana said and removed her coat.
So youre pregnant, her sister said.
Twins, Dana said, sinking into a chair.
Stacy nodded.
Dana realized Hud was still in his coat, waiting, afraid to leave her alone with Stacy. Are you going to pick up the kids?
He gave her a questioning look.
I thought you probably had more kids, her sister said. The toys and stuff around.
Dana was still looking at her husband. She knew he didnt trust Stacy, hated shed been alone in their house while they were gone and worse, he didnt want to leave the two of them alone. Stacy and I will be fine.
Still he hesitated. He knew better than anyone what her siblings were like.
Stacy, would you mind getting me a drink of water? The moment her sister left the room, Dana turned to her husband. Ill be fine, she said lowering her voice. Go pick up the kids. I promise I wont move until you get back. She could tell that wasnt what had him concerned.
He glanced toward the kitchen and the sound of running water. I wont be long.
She motioned him over and smiled as he leaned down to kiss her. At the same time, he placed a large hand on her swollen stomach. The babies moved and he smiled.
You have your cell phone if you need me?
Dana nodded. The marshals office is also on speed dial. Ill be fine. Really.
Stacy came back in with a glass full of water as Hud left. Im glad things have turned out good for you. Hud is so protective.
Thank you, she said as she took the glass and studied her sister over the rim as she took a drink.
I would have called, Stacy said, but I wanted to surprise you.
Im surprised. She watched her sister move around the room, touching one object after another, seeming nervous. Her first thought when shed seen her sister was that shed come here because she was in trouble.
That initial observation hadnt changed. Now though, Dana was betting it had something to do with money. It usually did with Stacy, unfortunately.
Years ago Dana had found out just how low her sister would stoop if the price was right. She had good reason not to trust her sister.
The place hasnt changed at all, Stacy was saying now. Except for the pile of toys in the sunroom. I heard Hud say he was going to pick up the kids?
Hank and Mary, five and four.
You named your daughter after
mother, thats nice, Stacy said. I thought you probably would. She seemed to hear what shed said. I want you to know Im not upset about mother leaving you the ranch. You know me, I would have just blown the money. She flashed a self-deprecating smile. And youre pregnant with twins! When are you due?
Eight weeks. When she finally couldnt take it anymore, Dana asked, Stacy, what are you doing here?