OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!
Grab my new series, " Faith and Love on the Frontier", and get 2 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!
A few years later
“Look at all this, Boone! Can you believe how far we’ve come?” Tilly exclaimed, her eyes twinkling as she surveyed the bustling yard filled with tables laden with food and decorations.
Boone, standing beside her, squeezed her hand gently. “I reckon it’s more than I ever dreamed, Tilly. All thanks to you and your big heart. And having little Ellie running around sure adds to the joy.”
The late afternoon sun bathed the boarding house yard in a warm, golden light, creating a festive glow that seemed to ignite the spirits of everyone present. The community feast was in full swing, with laughter ringing out and music playing softly in the background. Long tables covered in white linens were heaped with an array of dishes: platters of roasted meats, bowls of fresh salads, freshly baked bread, and pies in every conceivable flavor.
Children ran around playing tag, their laughter mingling with the strums of a guitar from a small group of local musicians who sat near the oak tree, their tunes drifting lazily through the air. Men and women from the town, dressed in their Sunday best, chatted amiably, plates full of food in hand, as they shared stories and caught up on each other’s lives.
Tilly moved through the crowd, greeting everyone with a warm smile and making sure each guest felt welcome. Her dress, a soft blue and fluttered about her as she moved, and her hair was pulled back in a neat braid, adorned with a few sprigs of wildflowers. Every now and then, she glanced over to where Boone was watching their daughter Ellie, who was gleefully chasing a butterfly.
“Mrs. Tilly, this potato salad is just divine!” Mrs. Langley, an elderly lady who had been one of the boarding house’s first supporters, declared, patting her stomach contentedly.
“Oh, I can’t take credit for that, Mrs. Langley. That’s all Cora’s doing,” Tilly replied, pointing towards a young woman serving food at one of the stalls. “She’s become quite the cook over the years!”
Nearby, Boone was deep in conversation with a group of men who were discussing the upcoming cattle drive. His presence, once that of a stranger in their midst, was now a pillar of the community, his strong, reliable nature something everyone had come to depend on. He laughed heartily, lifting Ellie into his arms as she ran up, breathless from her play.
As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting long shadows over the yard, Tilly stood up on a small wooden crate near the musicians. Clapping her hands for attention, the chatter slowly died down as all eyes turned towards her.
“Friends, neighbors,” Tilly began, her voice clear and full of warmth. “A few years back, I stood in front of many of you, unsure and scared, not knowing if the dream of this boarding house could ever be realized. But look around you—see what your kindness and support have built. This feast isn’t just to celebrate the boarding house’s success; it’s to honor each and every one of you who have been a part of this journey.”
Cheers and claps erupted from the crowd, and Boone whistled loudly, his face breaking into a proud grin.
“As we share in this food and fellowship,” Tilly continued, her eyes scanning the crowd, “and watch our children grow together here, let’s remember that this is more than just a meal. It’s a symbol of our unity and our strength together. And as long as I have anything to say about it, this boarding house will always be a place of refuge and a home to those in need.”
The applause that followed was thunderous, filled with the love and respect of a community united. As the music picked up again, Tilly stepped down, her heart full, Boone at her side, their hands intertwined, ready to continue celebrating into the evening, with little Ellie tugging at their skirts, ready to dance with her parents.
Near the edge of the bustling yard, under the shelter of an old walnut tree that had seen many such gatherings, stood Sarah. The young woman, whose arrival at their doorstep years ago marked with fear and uncertainty, was now a beacon of strength and compassion within the community. Her once tentative steps had transformed into confident strides as she moved among the townspeople, her condition no longer one of a desperate refugee but a proud, contributing member of their fold. She even found a husband soon after seeking Tilly and Boone’s help, a local rancher. Boone and Sarah played a little part in getting them together.
Sarah was arranging a small table with a display of hand-sewn quilts and intricately woven baskets, her handiwork being sold to raise funds for the local school. Her smile was gentle yet radiant as she chatted with the buyers, explaining the time and love woven into each piece.
“Sarah’s got a gift, doesn’t she?” remarked Boone, observing her from a distance, admiration lacing his tone.
“She certainly does,” Tilly agreed, watching the young woman with a mixture of pride and affection. “Remember when she first came here? Scared and alone. Look at her now, helping others just as she was helped. And so happy”
It was a testament to the boarding house’s mission, a cycle of kindness and support that continued to uplift its beneficiaries long after they had overcome their initial adversities. Sarah, once in need of shelter and a friendly hand, now extended the same to others, embodying the spirit of community that Tilly and Boone had strived to foster.
As a couple approached Sarah’s table, their interest piqued by the vibrant patterns of the quilts, Sarah greeted them with a warm welcome. “Each one has a story,” she was saying, her hands lightly touching the fabric. “This one here was inspired by the sunrise over the mesa. It reminded me of new beginnings, much like the one I found here.”
The couple listened, visibly moved by her words, and exchanged a glance before selecting one of the quilts. As they handed over their payment, the man said, “It’s more than just a quilt, isn’t it? It’s part of this town’s heart.”
“And a part of Sarah’s heart too,” the woman added, smiling at Sarah, who blushed with humility and gratitude.
Watching the scene unfold, Tilly felt a familiar warmth blossom in her chest. The boarding house was more than just a place to stay; it was a place where lives were rebuilt and futures were forged with the collective effort of all who passed through its doors.
Later, as Sarah took a brief pause from her bustling activity, Tilly approached her, Ellie now hitching a ride on Boone’s shoulders, giggling as she pretended to steer him like a horse.
“Sarah, you’ve outdone yourself with these,” Tilly gestured to the table laden with crafts. “You’re making a real difference.”
Sarah looked up, her eyes glistening slightly. “I learned from the best,” she replied, her gaze sweeping over Tilly and Boone. “You two showed me what kindness and a helping hand can do. Now, I just try to pass that on.”
“Keep on doing just that,” Boone chimed in, setting Ellie down who immediately clung to Sarah’s leg. “You’re a part of this family, Sarah. Always will be.”
As the trio shared a tender moment, the lively chatter and laughter continued to ripple through the gathering. Among the throngs of familiar faces, a newcomer stood on the outskirts, his eyes alight with fascination and a canvas propped against his leg. The man, dressed in slightly worn clothes with a satchel slung across his shoulder, carried an assortment of brushes and paints that jangled softly with his movements.
Ellie, ever curious, tugged at Tilly’s skirt and pointed towards the stranger. “Who’s that, Mama?” she asked, her small finger directed at the artist.
“I’m not sure, darling,” Tilly responded, her interest piqued. “Let’s go find out, shall we?” Hand in hand, with Boone following closely behind, they approached the man who was now setting up an easel with a practiced ease.
“Good evening,” Tilly greeted warmly. “I’m Tilly, and this is my husband Boone, and our daughter Ellie. Welcome to our community. I don’t believe we’ve met before.”
The artist, a man with keen eyes and a gentle demeanor, tipped his hat politely. “Good evening to you all. My name is Samuel. Samuel Edwards. I was just passing through, but I found myself captivated by the spirit of your town. I hope you don’t mind me capturing some of it on canvas.”
“Not at all,” Boone replied, his voice friendly. “It’s not every day we get an artist visiting. What brought you to our town?”
Samuel smiled, mixing some colors on his palette. “I’ve been traveling across the country, painting different communities. I heard about your town from a fellow traveler and thought it would be just another brief stop. But there’s something quite special about this place.”
As they spoke, Samuel began to sketch quickly, his eyes flitting across the scene before him, capturing the essence of the feast. Children playing, couples dancing, the old oak tree—all found a place on his canvas, brought to life by swift, confident strokes.
Ellie watched in awe, her eyes wide. “Are you going to paint us too?” she asked.
Samuel chuckled. “Would you like that?”
Ellie nodded vigorously, and Tilly laughed. “It seems you’ve got your first commission, Mr. Edwards.”
With a nod, Samuel set to work, sketching the small family. As he did, more townsfolk gathered, watching the artist at work, marveling at how quickly he translated life into art. It wasn’t long before a portrait of Tilly, Boone, and Ellie began to take shape, their likenesses emerging beneath his skilled hands.
As the portrait progressed, Samuel spoke of his travels, his art, and the places he had seen, but he confessed that few places had touched him as deeply as their little town. “There’s a warmth here, a sense of community that’s truly rare. It’s quite inspiring.”
Moved by his words and the beauty of his art, Tilly felt a surge of pride. “You know, Samuel, if you ever decide you want a place to stay for a while, our town could always use a resident artist. We could even set up a space for you to work and teach, if that interests you.”
Samuel paused, considering her words, then looked around at the gathered faces—all beaming with encouragement. “You know, I think I’d like that very much. This seems like a good place to put down roots.”
The agreement was met with cheers from the onlookers, pleased at the prospect of welcoming a new member to their fold. Boone clapped Samuel on the back, and Tilly squeezed his hand, their hearts full as the sun set, casting a soft glow over the new bonds being formed.
As the crowd began to disperse, with folks heading home after a day full of joy and celebration, Tilly and Boone found a quiet moment by the edge of the now-empty tables.
Boone, looking out over the yard where laughter had echoed just moments ago, felt a profound sense of contentment. “What a day, huh?” he said, pulling Tilly close.
“It was perfect,” Tilly agreed, resting her head against his shoulder. The twilight cast a serene glow, enveloping them in a peaceful hush that contrasted with the day’s earlier festivities. As they stood there, Tilly’s heart raced with the secret she had yet to share. The moment felt just right, the day’s joy providing the perfect backdrop for her news.
“Boone,” she began, her voice soft but filled with excitement, “I’ve been keeping a little something from you.”
Boone looked down at her, a smile playing on his lips. “Oh? And what might that be?”
Taking a deep breath, she took Boone’s hand and placed it gently on her abdomen. “We’re going to have another baby,” she whispered, her eyes shining with tears of happiness.
Boone’s face lit up with astonishment and joy. “Truly?” he asked, his voice choked with emotion. As the realization sank in, his smile broadened, and he pulled Tilly into a warm embrace.
“Yes, truly,” Tilly laughed, her heart swelling with love. “It seems our family is growing right along with our town. Ellie is going to have a little sister or a brother.”
As they stood together, the last light of the day fading into the starry night, Boone kissed her forehead tenderly. “I can’t think of a better way to deepen our roots here,” he said. “You and the children are my heart, Tilly. This town, these people—they’re our future.”
Tilly nodded, her hand still over his on her belly, feeling the promise of new life stirring within her. “Our beautiful, bustling, blessed future,” she murmured, her gaze fixed on the horizon, where the first stars of the evening twinkled, heralding the night’s embrace. Here, in the heart of the community they nurtured, their love and legacy would continue to flourish.
Readers who read this book also liked
 |
 |
 |
 |
OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!
Grab my new series, " Faith and Love on the Frontier", and get 2 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!
Hello, my dear readers! I hope that you enjoyed my story and the extended epilogue. I’m looking forward to reading your comments!
I truly enjoyed this book.it wasrealy nice she kept open to help women who were having problems.it was fantastic that they caught the man who killed her husband the store owner. I recommend this book to other readers.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the book and appreciated the themes of support and justice. Your recommendation means a lot to me!
I really enjoyed reading this book. I loved the story line. I love how the town flourished and grew and how each of the people connected to the boardinghouse were each successful in their lives. I’m not very good at expressing myself but I hope you understand what I was trying to say.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled that the story and characters resonated with you.
Wonderful story. Boone’s introduction into the world may not have been stellar, but his mother was a heroic to take them to better, honest life. Boone took those lessons to heart to be a wonderful character. Tilly part to stop Wayne is fitting.
Thank you Ms Lilah Rivers
Thank you so much for your thoughtful feedback! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the story and found the characters compelling. Your words mean a lot to me.
Great read Lilah, once I started reading, I couldn’t stop. Loved It! Keep up the great work.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the book and appreciate your support.
Enjoyed the story and the array of characters, especially Tilly and Boone. Really kept me interested!
Thank you so much! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the story and connected with Tilly and Boone. Their journey means a lot to me, and I’m glad it resonated with you.
This was a very good book. I enjoyed it immensely and was very hard to put down. The extended epilogue was also good. Keep up the good work.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the book and found it hard to put down. Your feedback means a lot to me, and I’m glad you appreciated the extended epilogue. I’ll definitely keep striving to deliver more stories you’ll enjoy.
Thank you for writing a clean romance. I loved Tilly and Boone and all the surrounding characters. I appreciated the theme of overcoming adversity and how kindness makes a difference to both the giver and receiver. Well done.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled that you enjoyed Tilly and Boone’s story and the themes of overcoming adversity and kindness. Your appreciation means a lot to me!
I so enjoyed this book, and the wonderful things that you have illustrated, that should be a part of every believers life! Loving, caring, forgiveness, and sharing! As Jesus commanded, “love one another as I have loved you.”
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m delighted that the themes of love, care, forgiveness, and sharing resonated with you. Your encouragement means a lot to me. Blessings!
What a wonderful entrance to your books & discovering you, a fantastic author. I usually don’t stray from the few authors I read. So was a good accident I found you.
This book was awesome, sweet and tender romance and a loyal group of ladies to take a risk and prove Boone’s innocence. I love how Boone said he would wait forever for Tilly and Tilly was not
about to let Wayne kill another one of “her” men.
Bless you for giving us 2 Epilogue’s I just love books with Epilogue’s.
Thank you,
Pam
Thank you so much for your kind words, Pam! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the book and that you connected with Boone and Tilly’s story. Your support means the world to me. Happy reading!
Well, seems you have been covered with lots of praise and rightly so. Leaves me little to say but ” What a great read”. I could go on and on but guess it would be redundant. But, on the other hand, it was clean, interesting, heartfelt, loving , and Christian based. Thank you so very much. Think I better try to sleep now as, oh my goodness, it is 6:00 a.m. WOW!!!
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the book and appreciate your heartfelt feedback. Sleep well!