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Logan hesitated a moment. “Seems so.”
“I don’t want you to worry about anything. I’m driving out for the service.”
“You don’t have to do that, Pop. I know it would be awkward for you at home.”
“Sally wants to come with me.”
“Say again.”
“Quinn’s mom insists on attending the service. When Sally makes up her mind, there’s no changing it. I’d appreciate it if you get us a place to stay.”
Logan felt unexpected relief at his father’s announcement. “Sure, Pop. I’ll take care of it.”
“And Logan?”
“Yes.”
“Don’t worry about the cost. I’m paying for whatever you decide.”
Chapter Twenty
Claudia’s service was short, marked by a few personal details from her life. Logan was mentioned, but the pastor never touched on his father.
Logan held Sam’s hand the entire time, his heart full of gratitude toward her, his father, and Sally. Quinn and Abigail showed up as the service started, surprising everyone.
True to his word, Wallace had already spoken to the funeral home representative about the expenses. He refused to discuss his decision with Logan, who insisted on hosting dinner at a local restaurant.
The entire day, Logan didn’t get more than a few feet away from Sam. She’d been his rock, a friend he never wanted to disappoint. If he were honest, the woman he’d come to love.
The days before the service had been spent going through Claudia’s few belongings. She wasn’t a hoarder, which made their work easier than expected. Logan and Sam packed a few items which held special meaning, taking everything else to a local charity. Claudia didn’t own her place, so nothing had to be done after packing and cleaning.
A few people from her workplace attended the service. Each stopped to speak with Logan. The last handed him a card with her name and contact information, informing him about a small life insurance policy the company provided all employees. He’d tucked it in a pocket, planning to call her when he returned to the ranch.
A week after leaving, Logan and Sam checked out of their rooms for the drive home. Unlike the trip to Claudia’s, the mood had shifted. Logan had come to accept his mother’s death, even making a few decisions about his future. The most important being he didn’t want their engagement to be fake.
He parked the truck at Whistle Rock Ranch long enough to carry Sam’s lone suitcase to her front door. She stood beside him, removing the key from her pocket.
“Thanks, Sam. I don’t know how I would’ve gotten through everything without you.”
“You would’ve done fine.”
He shrugged. “Maybe, but that’s not the point. I’m glad you were there.”
Before Sam knew what was happening, he slid an arm around her to pull her close. A second later, his mouth was on hers. It wasn’t a long kiss, but it conveyed much of what Logan wanted to say.
Without another word, he walked back to his truck and drove away.
Sam touched her lips several times, attempting to figure out the meaning of his kiss. Could it have been meant to convey gratitude for accompanying him? Or helping him sort out Claudia’s belongings? Maybe just being there during a difficult time.
None of those made sense for that kind of kiss. It was warm and meaningful, with enough heat to get her heart thumping.
If he’d intended for it to mean something, why hadn’t he stuck around? That was easy. He didn’t know what to say. In truth, she didn’t know what to say about the kiss either. Except…wow!
Sam decided to tuck the subject away to bring up later. Preferably when Logan was around.
Changing into her normal work clothes of jeans, a long-sleeved blouse, boots, and hat, she headed outside. Work on the barn had progressed, though not as rapidly as after the first time it had burned down. Spotting Virgil, she waved, waiting as he walked toward her.
“I didn’t know you were back.”
