Wild Horses (24 page)

“That man is a treasure,” Patty said. “Hold onto him.”

Castaña nodded, but didn’t answer. Jake hadn’t made any promises and he probably had to go back to Phoenix soon. Donovan and Hinkson’s trial would begin in a few months and she might see him again then, but he hadn’t said anything about a permanent arrangement.

The afternoon dragged on, until finally around five, only Jake, Eagle and Patty were left. The church ladies would come in the morning and clean, but Castaña didn’t want to leave the hall in a mess, so she began clearing Styrofoam cups and plastic silverware. The others jumped in and began to help. In a short time, they had the place restored to order and Eagle and Patty both hugged Castaña and told her to call them in the morning.

After they left Jake took her in his arms and held her tight. Castaña rested her head on his chest and listened to his heartbeat. His arms circled her and she felt safer than she ever had. She had to enjoy the feeling while it lasted. He would go back to his life, and she to hers.

“What are you thinking?”

“That I still have a lot to do.” She sighed. “I need to return all of all those baby things in the morning. I wish Arielle was Martin’s daughter and he had someone to carry on his legacy.”

Jake stroked her hair. “He does. You. As long as you’re alive you carry a part of him with you.”She sniffed. She’d cried more tears in the last week than she thought possible. When her mother died she thought she’d die, too. Her father’s passing hurt, but she managed to get through it. But this was different. She hadn’t said goodbye. The last time she and Martin had spoken they ended the conversation angry at each other. Maybe being here, near his final resting place, she would be able to heal faster.

“I think I’ll stay here. In Payson.”

Jake loosened his hold on her and stepped back enough to look into her eyes. “You’re not returning to Dallas?”

“No. I contacted a trainer I know in Phoenix, and he agreed to send me some of his horses. I’m going to be living right here.”

He cupped her face and kissed her. “I’ve been hoping you’d stay here with me. I’ve been transferred to the Payson field office.” He kissed her again. “I love you.”

“Oh, Jake! I love you, too.” Tears welled in her eyes, but this time from joy.

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