“Don’t you dare. Turnabout’s fair play, if I recall.” She raised an eyebrow at her sister.
“Fine. I’ll only use them for the direst of circumstances.”
As they all laughed together, John wheeled Granddad over. “Well, this looks like fun.”
“Apparently, there are some interesting stories about Maddy getting into trouble.” Daniel pulled her even closer.
“Just Maddy?” John shook his head. “These ladies have a plethora of tales on each other.”
“I look forward to hearing them all.” Daniel kissed her forehead, then looked deep into her eyes.
Oh my.
“But first . . .” Havyn began.
Madysen pulled herself from Daniel’s spell and turned to her sister.
Havyn took John’s hand. “Since you all are here. We have news to share––”
“We’re expecting a baby!” John nearly shouted it, a beaming smile on his face.
Hugs and congratulations went all around, and Maddy’s heart soared. How could she have ever considered leaving? This was where she belonged. Where they all belonged. Together.
Mama would be so proud.
Daniel hugged Havyn, almost lifting her off her feet.
He was perfect.
A perfect match for her. A perfect helper for her whole family.
How could she ever have doubted that God had brought them together? And look how He did it. Through healing, laughter, love, family . . . manure.
She grinned.
And sheep. She mustn’t forget the dear sheep.
Daniel walked back to her. Once she was safely ensconced in his arms again, he whispered in her ear, “I can’t wait for us to start our life together.”
And then he kissed her. A kiss that made her knees weak.
Cheers sounded around them.
Madysen leaned against Daniel, willing her wobbly knees to steady.
He grinned as if he knew exactly how she was feeling. “Are you ready to go, my love? I’m guessing your family won’t mind celebrating on their own.”
“I’m ready”––she leaned her head against his chest––“but my knees aren’t yet.”
“Well then, allow me.” His strong arms went around her, and he lifted her, cradling her against his chest.
The cheers sounded again.
And followed them as he carried her out the door.
THE END
A Note from the Authors
There are times in this life when mercy feels easy to give and other times when it seems impossible. The struggle can be overwhelming. This past year, during the global pandemic, it has been eye-opening to see people’s reactions to different circumstances. More than ever, we need mercy. And we need to extend it.
We pray that you have had the opportunity to get away to a different time and place through this story, and hopefully, you’ve had the chance to share the mercy of our Savior with someone else.
We can’t wait to share Whitney’s story with all of you next January.
Kim and Tracie
Acknowledgments
Tracie and I would like to thank our invaluable team at Bethany House. Dave Horton, Dave Long, Steve Oates, Noelle Chew, Amy Lokkesmoe, Paul Higdon, Kate Deppe, and all the other team members that make this happen. It is a joy to work with all of these phenomenal people.
Huge thanks also goes out to our brilliant editor, Karen Ball. Whew, she makes us work, but the story is so much better because of her.
To my critique group: Kayla Woodhouse Whitham, Becca Whitham, and Darcie Gudger, where would I be without you? Becca, you went above and beyond for this story. Thank you.
To our husbands and families—we love you. Thanks for all you do to help us on this journey.
And to our Lord and Savior—the Giver of true endless mercy. Thank You.
Tracie Peterson is the award-winning author of more than one hundred novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her many bestselling series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. Visit www.traciepeterson.com to learn more.
Kimberley Woodhouse is an award-winning, bestselling author of fiction and nonfiction. A popular speaker and teacher, she has shared the theme of “Joy Through Trials” with hundreds of thousands of people across the country. Kim is a pastor’s wife and is passionate about music and Bible study. She lives and writes in the Bitterroot Valley in Montana. Visit www.kimberleywoodhouse.com for more information.
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Table of Contents
Cover
Half Title Page
Books by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse
Title Page
Copyright Page
Dedication
Contents
Dear Reader
Prologue
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Epilogue
A Note from the Authors
Acknowledgments
About the Authors
Back Ads
Cover Flaps
Back Cover
List of Pages
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