“Actually, no,” he said, smiling at her, “but since this drive to visit me was unprecedented and a little difficult for you under the circumstances, I’m sure I’m going to get some.”
“I’m just concerned. And Jake is concerned about his sister. She’s hurting, and I came to see for myself how you’re faring.”
“I’m faring fine,” he said, startled to hear about Lindsay. He’d figured she had gotten on with her life and wasn’t giving much thought to him. He knew she had stopped working with the men.
“Mike Calhoun’s wife is expecting her baby this month, which is exciting. We’ll have the three new babies, plus Cody and Scotty. Our families are growing and I think it’s exciting and wonderful.”
He smiled at her. “At the moment, you’re in love with Jake, having his baby, and the whole world looks rosy to you,” he said, studying her and realizing she looked happier and prettier than ever before.
“You’re right,” she agreed. “Are you okay?”
“I’m absolutely fine. And you’re looking good yourself. I think marriage and motherhood really suit you.”
“I’m happy, Tony. So happy with Jake,” she said.
“Our dad should have stayed out of your lives and not deceived you about Jake, as well as driving him away,” Tony said quietly. “I don’t know how you can ever forgive him. Dad and I have butted heads since I was able to talk back to him. I paid for it, but I never got along with him the way Wyatt and Nick did.”
“Wyatt is quiet and peaceful. Nick’s the politician who’s going to please the world and he started by pleasing Dad. And I always, well, until high school, did what he wanted. I never dreamed he would interfere in my life the way he did.” Her frown disappeared and she smiled. “That’s over. Jake and I are married, having a baby and I’m happier than I ever dreamed possible.” Impulsively, she reached out to squeeze her brother’s hand. “I hope you find that with Lindsay, Tony. You can’t imagine how wonderful marriage can be.”
He laughed. “I do believe you’re in love, sis. That’s good. You and Jake deserve all the happiness in the world. I’m amazed Jake hasn’t punched Dad out.”
“Jake isn’t going to hit an elderly man, much less hit my father.”
“He has a right to.”
“Whatever,” she said, flipping back her hair. “Anyway, I’m glad to hear you’re okay. I just wanted to see for myself. I’m excited our babies will be fairly close in age. December and May aren’t really far apart after the first year or two.”
“Madison, you didn’t drive out here to tell me how thrilled you are about our babies being close in age. You could have done that on the phone.”
“Well, I more or less did. And to see if you’re okay.”
“I’m quite okay. But what’s wrong with Lindsay?”
“I think she’s just unhappy.”
“Well, Jake should realize that being pregnant has put a big crimp in her lifestyle. For corn’s sake, look how she’s always lived—like one of the guys. Suddenly, she’s a woman andher body has limitations because of her pregnancy. She’s not accustomed to that, didn’t expect it and evidently is having difficulty adjusting to it.”
“Just be nice to her, Tony. It’s a big change and for Lindsay, without a husband, without planning for a baby, changing her entire life and future is an enormous upheaval.”
“She’ll adjust. And she could have a husband if she wanted,” he said, unable to keep the bitterness out of his voice. “She turned me down absolutely. Lindsay will handle this just like she handles everything else—in full control.”
“You think a lot of her, don’t you?” Madison asked.
“Sure, I do. Every rancher in the area does. She’s capable and intelligent.”
“You didn’t take her out because she’s capable and intelligent.”
He laughed. “No, she can be fun and pretty.”
“Lindsay has the looks of a model when she wants to. I saw her at the auction. Anyway, you be nice to her. She needs you now.”
“I’ll be nice to Lindsay,” he said with amusement. “Though I don’t think she needs me or wants to see me or talk to me.”
Madison sat quietly so long that he turned to look at her. “What?” he asked.
She stood. “I’ve seen that you’re doing fine. I don’t want to pry into your life with Lindsay. I just want you to know that I’m excited about your baby. I should go home now.”
“That was a short visit, but I’m glad you came. Madison, let me know when Mike’s baby is born. I might not hear about it.”