Spanking Her Highness (14 page)

"Now about getting married," he started.

She giggled. "Always back to that."

* * *

Two days later, as they were preparing to leave for the county Justice of the Peace's office, Queenie got a call from the local sheriff.

"I got your ex-husband again."

Queenie sighed. "I can't help you, Sheriff."

"Thought you'd like to know. He's got a long list of drug-related charges now. Ain't gonna make it out of county jail anytime soon, 'cause his daddy has written him off. His girlfriend ain't any better."

"Girlfriend?"

"Yep. I figure she's the one behind your road accident, though I can't prove it." He paused. "Yet."

It was a huge relief to know that, at least for a time, her problems with Harry were over. "Thanks, Sheriff, for letting me know."

They rang off and Queenie told her family, who were milling around, waiting for her.

"Great. Now I don't have to strangle that idiot," Will declared.

Leo added his two cents. "I never did like the bastard."

"Me, neither," Ace said.

Deuce put his arm around his little sister. "You're taking a big step up in the world, Q."

She nodded. She definitely was. Beaming, she took Will's hand and tilted her head. "You gonna take me to get married now?"

Will smiled and put on his best Hoss impression. "I've a hankerin' to, little lady. Let's ride."

Everyone laughed, but Queenie's heart expanded. He was a good man, a strong man. He was a man she could count on and trust. Her family was right. And, although his name might be Mazie, Will was a Journey now, sure as shootin'.