“They’re at peace now. Oh, Smoke, I’m so sorry.” She went to him then and hugged him tightly, giving him the compassion and consolation he needed so badly, though he would never ask for it.
By then, the working hands had ridden into the ranch yard. All but one headed for the hot meal awaiting them. Bobby Jensen, who had seen Smoke Jensen’s horse at the tie-rail, broke from the rest and raced to the main house. He burst through the kitchen door and threw himself at Smoke.
“You’re home! I jist knew you’d be here today,” the boy said.
“Did you now?” Smoke tousled Bobby’s white-blond hair.
“Are you gonna take me along the next time?” Bobby asked through his pleasure at seeing Smoke again.
Suddenly Smoke’s thoughts rebounded to Tommy Olsen. He reflected on how the boy, only a year older than Bobby, had become a man in the crucible of their shared hardship. He wanted so much that such suffering would never visit Bobby. But then, the lad was growing up. He held Bobby out at arm’s length.
“Bobby, it is sometimes wise to be careful what one wishes for. You might just get it. As to going with me…not the next time. I think when you turn fourteen will be soon enough. We’ll go find us an adventure then.” And a tame one at that, Smoke promised himself.
Sally Jensen joined her husband and adopted son and embraced both her men. Smoke was home and wise as always, and all was well in her world.
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Copyright © 2006 by Kensington Publishing Corp.
Spirit of the Mountain Man copyright © 1996 by William W. Johnstone
Ordeal of the Mountain Man copyright © 1996 by William W. Johnstone
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This novel is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or events is entirely coincidental.
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