Bossing the Cowboy (Circle B Ranch #4) - Kennedy Fox Page 0,71
with us, they’d play games after, and soon, it became their evening tradition.
As Rose talks to them, I smile at the two girls who have my whole heart.
“Good luck,” Elle says over the phone as I drive to New Mexico. “Just remember that whatever happens, I’m here for you.”
My heart hasn’t stopped racing all morning. Though my lawyer will be with me in court, I’m still nervous and not sure what to expect.
“Thank you, baby. I’ll call you as soon as I can.”
“Olivia and I will be waiting.” I hear the smile in her voice as she tries to lighten my spirits. Since I knew this day was coming, no clinic appointments were scheduled so Elle could be on call for emergencies only. Olivia invited her over for lunch, so now they’re hanging out at my parents' until I return.
Aside from the anticipation of today, the past month has been a dream come true. Being with Elle and having my daughter home is everything I ever wished for. I’ve fallen so hard for Elle, I’d never recover if I lost her.
I arrive at the courthouse thirty minutes early and meet up with Jacob. When I see Vivian, I’m actually shocked she showed and looks presentable. She avoids eye contact with me, which doesn’t surprise me. What does, though, is when her lawyer tells the judge that she’s decided to sign over her physical rights and to give me sole custody. I’m confused as hell as to why she’d do that, but I’m not complaining. Jacob leans in and explains what’s going on.
“I overheard earlier that she’s moving to California with some guy, and since you had shared custody, she would’ve needed permission to take Olivia with her. This way, she signs over her rights and can leave, but if she wants to visit, she needs your approval first.”
I shake my head at her selfishness. Of course she’d pick a guy over her daughter. Though I shouldn’t be that surprised, I am. She’s not the same woman I married all those years ago, and I hardly recognize her anymore. I’m saddened for Olivia because she doesn’t deserve this, but I’m happy too. This way, she’ll have everything and more with me in Eldorado.
After Jacob accepts the new agreement on my behalf, the judge closes the case. It’s finally over. I blow out a relieved breath and can’t wait to tell everyone the good news. Vivian leaves without a glance, and I shrug. She’ll live to regret this, but that’ll be on her conscience, not mine. I’m not sure what I’ll tell our daughter, if anything. Eventually, she’ll wonder and ask where her mom is, and then I’ll have to decide what to say. I’ve found the truth is always best.
Once I make the drive back to Eldorado, I sweep Olivia in my arms and hug her tightly to my chest the moment I get out of the car. “I missed you so much.”
“Daddy…I can’t breathe.” She giggles when I release her.
“Sorry, baby. I’m just happy to see you.”
“You’re just in time. Elle just showed up again.” Olivia laughs.
“Oh, where was she?” I ask as we walk toward the house.
“The Buchmans’ had an emergency, so Elle rushed there to help but said she’d be back by dinnertime, which she is,” she confirms as if she’s my little assistant.
“Oh great. I can’t wait to hear all about your day.”
“Are you gonna marry Elle?” Olivia’s question stops me in my tracks.
I kneel in front of her. “Why do you ask that?”
She shrugs with a sly grin. “I just wondered because I really like her, and Grammy said she’d make a pretty bride.”
I release a breath at the image of Elle in a wedding dress, walking down the aisle to me. I’d be lying if I said the thought hadn’t crossed my mind. Marrying her is everything I want.
“I think you’re right, baby. Elle would be a beautiful bride.” I give her a smile, then we go inside.
Once I walk into the kitchen, I greet Elle and my parents. They smile as if they’ve been waiting for me. I direct Olivia to wash her hands so I can quickly tell them what happened. They’re just as relieved as me and couldn’t be happier with the outcome.
“Wanna take a walk with me?” I ask Elle after dinner. Olivia’s reading a bedtime story with my mom, so I take the opportunity to get Elle alone.
“I’d go anywhere with you, Cowboy.” She smirks, taking my hand.