To Love a Stranger (38 page)

Zoey saw a shadow pass over Pierce’s face and knew exactly what he was thinking. She squeezed his hand in commiseration. “Don’t fret so, love. Chad will come to his senses soon and return home where he belongs.”

“It’s been months since anyone has heard from him. He could be dead for all we know.”

“You would have heard. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if both Chad and Ryan found women to love?”

“It won’t happen,” Pierce contended. “Both my brothers are confirmed bachelors.”

Zoey’s eyes twinkled mischievously. “So were you, until you found love.”

He gave her a lopsided grin. “Maybe you’re right. Neither one has met a determined woman like you. If either of my brothers is lucky enough to find someone to love, I’ll wager he’ll fall as hard as I have.”

“Can I come in?” Cully poked his grizzled head around the door, obviously anxious to see Zoey and the baby.

“Come in, Cully,” Pierce invited.

Cully walked into the room, twisting his battered hat in his hand. “You look plumb happy, Miz Zoey. A mite tuckered out, but that’s to be expected.” He glanced longingly at the cradle.

“Go ahead and take a peek, Cully,” Zoey said. “He looks just like his father.”

“He’s a mighty fine boy, Miz Zoey. Your pa would have been proud as a peacock. What are ya gonna name him?”

“We haven’t decided,” Zoey said.

“Yes, we have,” Pierce corrected. “We’re naming him for Zoey’s father.”

Cully appeared pleased. “He’d be right tickled. Well, reckon I’d best be getting back to the chores.”

“Thank you,” Zoey told Pierce once they were alone.

Pierce bent and kissed her softly on the lips. “No, love, thank you for loving a stranger.”