“You were pretty lucky in that match,” George said with a laugh.
“I knew Brielle would end up on the ranch, and the first time I met Colt, he was an ornery cuss, but I liked and respected him. I had hoped sparks would fly, but hadn’t held out much hope for it,” Richard said. “I knew when I told the kids what I wanted from them that they would all be mad, but I also knew that Brielle would take the longest to accept her challenge, and there was just no way any of the boys would want anything to do with ranching. It seems each of the businesses I purchased has landed in the right hands, at least so far.”
“Are you ever going to tell her you were hoping she and Colt would find each other?” George asked.
“Are you insane? She’d skin me alive.”
“Yeah, that’s pretty much how our kids feel,” Joseph said. “But that doesn’t matter. All that matters is the end result, and that’s a lot of grandbabies and great-nieces and -nephews. I only wish we’d known each other when this ‘journey’ you’ve placed your children on started. There’s nothing I like more than a bit of meddling.”
“I couldn’t agree with you more, brother,” Richard said. “Plus, I’m way behind in the grandchild department, so it will be a pleasure catching up with you.”
“From the way Colt and Brielle were looking at each other on our last visit, I bet it won’t take long at all,” Joseph told him.
“I think it’s time to visit with Lance again. I want to see what that boy is up to. I have a feeling he’s going to be my favorite nephew,” George said with a smile.
“Ah, they’re all my favorites,” Joseph said, and he meant it. There wasn’t one of the kids he loved more than the other. Okay, he did have to admit that his granddaughter Jasmine had an extra-special place in his heart.
“Even the strongest of them fall, George. Lance will fight to the end, but it’s only a matter of time before he gives in to his destiny, and that certainly includes true love…” Richard said.
The three men clinked glasses.
THE END