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The noise ceased, and the judge continued. "Cade, Zane and Trey, I'm sorry for your loss, and I apologize for the actions of the Silverdale sheriff and for the years you've spent seeking justice. You're all free to go."
Chairs scraped across the floor as the spectators rushed to congratulate Cade and his cousins. Isabella hung back until Cade's eyes met hers and he forced his way through the crowd to reach her. Taking her in his arms, he kissed her.
Her throat tightened, and tears clouded her vision. "Finally," she whispered.
At that moment, Zane and Trey approached and shook Cade's hand. "We're getting out of here," Zane said.
"Heading home?" Cade asked.
Trey shook his head. "There's a poker game with a seat being kept warm for me. I'll be back in a while."
"What about you?" Cade asked Zane.
"I thought I'd head down Texas way, see what's going on, but I'll be back by Christmas."
"Stay safe, both of you," Cade told them. And thanks again."
"I suppose you'll be going back to Rocky Ridge now," Isabella said to Cade after Zane and Trey were gone.
Cade shook his head. "Not yet."
Her eyes widened. "Why not? You got what you wanted. You finally got your revenge. What else would keep you here?"
"You."
For a long moment, she gazed at Cade's face, the face – the man – she'd loved as far back as she could remember. "Are you sure? We don't really know each other any more."
"You said you wanted a man who would be your friend as well as your husband."
"I did say that, didn't I?" she whispered.
He cradled her chin in his hands. "I've always been your friend, and I'd like to be your husband."
Her tears spilled unchecked down her cheeks. "I hear Rocky Ridge is a wonderful place to raise a family."
"It is," he said, planting a kiss on her lips that left her breathless.
She smiled, her heart full. "Then the sooner we get there, the better."
