Charlie Grace sighed dreamily. “That man is smitten.”
Capri waved off the comment. “He’s…well, he’s Jake. That’s saying a lot.”
Charlie Grace handed her a glass of wine. “Oh, it’s saying plenty.”
Capri worked to keep her face neutral. “It’s saying he’s Jake. That’s all.” She wouldn’t be able to keep the secret for much longer, but for now, it was hers—untouched by opinions, unshaken by questions, a quiet joy she could hold close just a little while longer.
Lila exchanged a knowing glance with Reva. “That’s all?”
Reva tilted her head, studying Capri like a puzzle missing its last piece. “Funny. I seem to remember a time when you barely tolerated the guy.”
Capri shrugged, keeping her voice light. “People evolve.”
Charlie Grace folded her arms. “Uh-huh. And what exactly has Jake evolved into?”
Capri busied herself by swirling the wine in her glass, watching as the legs ran down the sides. “He’s…dependable.”
Charlie Grace let out a dry laugh. “So is my dog.”
Capri shot her a look. “Fine. He’s kind. Thoughtful. He listens.” She stopped, realizing she was saying too much. “And he’s handy with a hammer.”
Lila narrowed her eyes. “I don’t know, Capri. You sound suspiciously like a woman in love.”
Capri forced a laugh, reaching for a deviled egg off the platter. “So, what if I am?”
Reva pressed a hand to her chest, eyes twinkling. “So, you admit you have feelings for Jake?”
Capri fumbled the deviled egg, nearly sending it rolling off her plate. She recovered fast, popping it into her mouth and chewing, buying herself a second to steady her pulse. “Let’s talk about something else,” she mumbled around the bite, avoiding their knowing stares.
Later. She’d tell them later. But for now, she just smiled and changed the subject. “So, Charlie Grace, what’s new with you? I know you’ve been busy since the big find. Give us a full update.”
Charlie Grace leaned back in her chair, stretching her arms overhead with a satisfied sigh. “So, it’s done. The trusts are officially in place for Dad and Jewel—airtight. Gibbs can huff and puff all he wants, but he won’t weasel a dime.”
Reva gave an approving nod. “Smart move. That man could charm a snake out of its skin, but even a snake knows better than to steal what it can’t swallow.”
Charlie Grace smiled, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “That was priority one. The second? I set up a foundation and fully funded it for Thunder Mountain. The town’s been good to me, and I wanted to give back. The money will go toward community projects, emergency relief, scholarships. I’ve named it after Alf Morgan, the original owner of the trunk—and I’ve appointed the three of you as the trustees. Providing you agree to serve.”
Lila’s eyes widened. “Charlie Grace, that’s incredible.”
Capri let out a low whistle. “That’s a legacy move.”
Reva’s eyes lit up. “And what an honor it is. Of course, we’ll serve—right, girls?”
Charlie Grace grinned, their reactions seeming to fill her with warmth. “I just want to make sure this place thrives for years to come. Which brings me to the next big thing—expanding Teton Trails Guest Ranch.”
She leaned forward, excitement flickering in her gaze. “I’ve already hired contractors. We’re adding new luxury cabins—still rustic but with high-end amenities. Think stone fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, heated floors. The kind of place where you can spend the day riding trails and come back to something first-class.”
Reva grinned. “That’s smart. People want the charm of the mountains but the comfort of a resort.”
“Exactly,” Charlie Grace said. “We’re also expanding the main lodge—bigger dining space, a full-service spa, and a yoga deck overlooking the valley. I’ve even brought in a marketing company to help put us on the map. High-end travel magazines, influencers, custom branding—the whole deal.”
Lila shook her head, impressed. “You’re turning this place into a world-class destination.”
“That’s the goal,” Charlie Grace admitted. Then she grew quiet, her gaze drifting out toward the spread of pines beyond the porch. “You know, I was thinking earlier…remember when you girls built the first website for the ranch? How you helped me get this place off the ground?”
Capri smiled. “How could we forget? You were starting your guest ranch on a wing and a prayer. It was the least we could do to help.”
Lila shook her head with a soft smile. “That’s what friends do. This town has a way of showing up for each other, and that’s what makes Thunder Mountain so special—the kind of place I want my grandbaby to grow up in.”
