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“Are you sure you’re comfortable, darling?” Emil asked, his brow furrowed with concern as he knelt beside Petunia’s chair. His hand rested gently on her swollen belly, feeling the faint kick of their baby beneath his palm.
Petunia chuckled softly, her fingers brushing through his hair. “Emil, you’ve asked me that at least ten times today. I’m perfectly fine.” She shifted slightly in the chair, the warm summer breeze fluttering through the open windows of their parlor. “Besides, our little one seems to be just as eager as Janey is to join us.”
Janey, perched on a nearby footstool with her eyes bright and eager, piped up, “I can’t wait to meet the baby! Do you think it will be a boy or a girl, Mama?”
Petunia smiled, feeling the excitement radiating from her stepdaughter. “I suppose we’ll just have to wait and see, won’t we? But no matter what, they’re going to have the best big sister in the world.”
Janey grinned, puffing out her chest with pride. “I’ll help with everything! I’ll even change nappies if I have to.”
Emil laughed, standing up and ruffling Janey’s hair. “That’s quite the promise, my little helper. We might just take you up on that.”
A knock on the door interrupted their conversation, and Emil crossed the room to open it. John stepped in, his face beaming with joy. “Well, well, look at you all,” he said, giving Emil a hearty handshake and nodding at Petunia. “How are things coming along? Any signs yet?”
“Not quite yet,” Petunia answered, though she could feel the anticipation building in the room. “But soon enough, I think. How are things with you, John? Any news on your front?”
John’s smile widened, and he leaned against the doorframe, a light blush creeping up his cheeks. “Well, funny you should ask. I wanted to tell you both that Mary and I have decided to make it official. We’re courting now.”
Emil’s grin matched his friend’s, clapping him on the shoulder. “That’s wonderful news, John! I was beginning to wonder when you’d make it official. She’s a fine woman.”
Petunia’s heart swelled with happiness for their dear friend. “I’m so pleased for you both. Mary is lovely, and I can already tell you’re both well-suited. It’s about time you found someone special.”
John’s smile softened. “Thank you, Petunia. That means a lot coming from you. I’ll have to bring her by soon for a proper visit. Once you’ve settled in with your little one, of course.”
“You know you’re always welcome,” Emil replied, his arm slipping around Petunia’s shoulders. “We’ll be a full house soon, what with the baby and Petunia’s sister coming to stay with us.”
Janey bounced on her footstool. “Aunt Lydia is coming to live with us! I can’t wait! Is she going to stay forever, Papa?”
Petunia laughed softly. “Well, she’s coming to help with the baby and start a life here, but I’m sure she’ll have her own adventures soon enough. It will be wonderful having her close by.”
***
“Petunia! I see them coming down the road!” Janey’s excited voice rang out as she peeked through the window, practically bouncing on her toes.
Petunia smiled, resting a hand on her belly as she carefully rose from her chair. Emil appeared by her side in an instant, offering his arm. “Are you sure you want to stand, darling?” he asked softly.
“I’m fine, Emil,” Petunia said with a soft chuckle, her heart fluttering with excitement. “I wouldn’t miss seeing my family’s arrival for anything.”
Together, they walked to the doorway, where Janey had already flung the door open wide, her face lit with anticipation. Down the lane, Petunia could see the familiar figures of her father’s cart, with her father guiding the horse and her younger sister, Lydia, sitting beside him. The sight filled her with warmth—after so long, her family was finally coming to visit.
“Is that Aunt Lydia?” Janey asked, eyes wide as she waved eagerly toward the approaching cart.
“Yes, sweetheart,” Petunia answered with a smile. “And she’s going to stay with us for a while.”
As the cart rolled to a stop in front of the house, Petunia’s father, Mr. Sunderland, climbed down first, his weathered face breaking into a grin as he hurried over to embrace her. “My dear Petunia!” he exclaimed, wrapping her in a careful hug. “It’s been too long.”
Petunia hugged him back tightly, though she could feel Emil’s watchful gaze on her, ever protective. “I’ve missed you, Papa. How was the journey?”
“Long, but worth it,” her father replied, stepping back and nodding toward Lydia, who was already climbing down from the cart with a wide smile. “And here’s your sister, excited as ever to be in the countryside.”
Lydia rushed forward, her auburn hair catching the sunlight as she pulled Petunia into a gentle hug. “Oh, Petunia! You look radiant,” she said, her eyes sparkling as she took in the sight of her sister’s rounded belly. “And ready to pop any day now, I’d say!”
Petunia laughed softly, patting her stomach. “It feels that way, I assure you.”
Emil stepped forward, greeting Mr. Sunderland with a firm handshake and a respectful nod. “Welcome to our home, sir. We’ve been eagerly awaiting your visit.”
“Thank you, Emil,” Mr. Sunderland replied warmly. “It’s a fine place you’ve made here, and I can see my daughter is well taken care of.”
Lydia smiled at Emil as well, then turned her attention to Janey, who was standing close by, eyes wide with curiosity. “And you must be Janey,” Lydia said kindly, kneeling to the little girl’s height. “I’ve heard so much about you.”
Janey blushed and giggled, hiding slightly behind Petunia’s skirts before stepping forward. “Are you really staying with us, Aunt Lydia?”
Lydia nodded, her eyes twinkling. “I am! And I can’t wait to spend time with you—and help with the new baby.”
Janey grinned widely. “I’m going to be the best big sister ever! I’ll help with the baby, and I’ll show you all my favorite places around the ranch.”
As the family exchanged joyful greetings, Petunia felt a deep sense of peace settle over her. Her father and sister were here, safe and sound, and the days ahead promised the warmth of family and the excitement of new life.
“Come inside,” Petunia said, gesturing toward the house. “You must be tired from the journey. We have tea waiting, and I’m sure Janey will be eager to show you her favorite spots.”
They all began to head inside, the conversation light and full of anticipation. Petunia’s heart swelled with happiness, knowing that despite all they’d been through, this was exactly where she was meant to be—surrounded by love, family, and the promise of even brighter days to come.
“Papa, can I hold the baby now?” Janey asked eagerly, her eyes wide with excitement as she stood next to Petunia’s bed.
Petunia smiled softly, cradling the newborn in her arms. “Of course, sweetheart. But remember to be gentle.” She glanced over at Emil, who was watching the scene with an expression of pure adoration. “Emil, help her up.”
Emil nodded, lifting Janey carefully onto the bed next to Petunia. “Here we go, big sister,” he said softly. “Are you ready?”
Janey nodded vigorously, her little hands reaching out toward the tiny bundle in Petunia’s arms. Petunia shifted gently, placing the baby into Janey’s waiting arms, her heart swelling as she watched the care and awe on Janey’s face.
“She’s so small,” Janey whispered, her voice full of wonder. “And so soft.”
“That’s because she’s still very new,” Petunia explained, brushing a hand over Janey’s curls. “But you’ll get to help take care of her as she grows.”
“What’s her name again?” Janey asked, her eyes never leaving the baby’s face.
Petunia and Emil exchanged a warm look. “Her name is Eliza,” Petunia said softly. “Eliza Jane, after your mama.”
Janey beamed, her eyes glistening with happy tears. “I love that name.”
“You’re going to be a wonderful big sister, Janey,” Emil said, his voice low and full of pride. “Eliza is lucky to have you.”
Just then, the door creaked open, and Lydia peeked her head in, her eyes lighting up at the sight before her. “Is this a good time?” she asked softly, stepping into the room.
“Of course,” Petunia said, smiling. “Come in, Lydia. Meet your new niece.”
Lydia walked over, her face glowing with happiness. “Oh, Petunia,” she murmured, sitting at the edge of the bed. “She’s beautiful. Just like her mama.”
Petunia blushed slightly, her heart full. “Thank you, Lydia.”
Lydia reached out to gently stroke the baby’s cheek. “It feels like such a blessing to be here, with all of you,” she said. “I can’t wait to help with Eliza—and with Janey, of course.”
Emil smiled at Lydia. “We’re glad you’re here, Lydia. You’ve been such a comfort to Petunia, especially these last few months. And I know Janey will love having you around.”
“I already do!” Janey chimed in, still gazing at Eliza in her arms.
The room was filled with warmth, the soft crackle of the fireplace in the background as the family shared this precious moment. Petunia felt a deep sense of contentment wash over her—this was everything she had dreamed of and more.
As the day stretched into evening, the baby was carefully tucked back into her crib, and Petunia found herself seated by the fire with Emil, Lydia, and Janey curled up beside them. The peace and joy that filled the house was palpable, and though the challenges of the past seemed distant, they had all shaped this present moment.
“John’s coming by tomorrow,” Emil said, breaking the comfortable silence. “He wants to introduce Mary properly to everyone.”
“I’m so happy for him,” Petunia said, resting her head on Emil’s shoulder. “He deserves love, just like we do.”
“That he does,” Emil agreed. “I’m looking forward to seeing him settled. He’s been there for us through everything.”
As the fire crackled, Petunia couldn’t help but feel as though this was the perfect end to a perfect day. Her family was growing, not just with the arrival of little Eliza but with the bonds that had deepened among those she loved most.
“Papa, Aunt Lydia is going to read us a story before bed!” Janey exclaimed as she skipped into the room, her excitement barely contained. “Can we stay up just a little longer?”
Emil laughed, catching Petunia’s eye. “I think we can allow it this once,” he said, ruffling Janey’s hair as she climbed onto the sofa beside Lydia, who was holding a well-worn book in her lap.
“I’m happy to oblige,” Lydia said with a smile. “It’s been a while since I’ve had a chance to read aloud to anyone.”
Petunia, seated comfortably beside Emil, glanced over at her sister, her heart full of gratitude. “It’s wonderful having you here, Lydia. You’ve made these last few months so much easier.”
Lydia gave her a warm smile. “I’m just happy to be with you and the family, Petunia. Helping with the children—it’s something I’ve always dreamed of.” She opened the book, and Janey snuggled closer to her, eagerly awaiting the story.
As Lydia began reading, Petunia leaned her head against Emil’s shoulder, her hand resting on his. “I’m so thankful,” she whispered softly. “For everything. For you.”
Emil turned slightly, his gaze tender as he brushed a kiss against her forehead. “And I’m thankful for you, Petunia. Every day.” His eyes flickered to little Eliza, who was sleeping peacefully in her cradle nearby. “We’ve come so far. I never thought life would feel this full.”
Petunia nodded, her heart swelling with love and joy. “It’s almost hard to believe sometimes. Two years ago, everything was so different, and now… look at us.”
“Look at us,” Emil echoed with a grin, his eyes reflecting the firelight.
As Lydia’s soft voice filled the room with the words of the story, there was a gentle knock on the door. Petunia glanced up in surprise, wondering who could be visiting so late. Emil rose to answer, his tall frame casting a shadow as he opened the door.
To Petunia’s surprise, Sheriff Maxwell stood on the porch, his hat in hand and a hesitant look on his face. Petunia tensed slightly, the memories of the past briefly resurfacing. But then she noticed the change in his demeanor—gone was the arrogance he once wore like armor.
“Evening, Emil,” Sheriff Maxwell said in a subdued tone. “I didn’t mean to disturb you, but I wanted to drop by and let you know that I’m leaving town in the morning.”
Emil raised an eyebrow. “Leaving, are you?”
Maxwell nodded. “I’ve paid my debt, and the people here deserve someone they can trust. Uhoia’s sheriff has asked me to stay on as a deputy over there, and I reckon that’s a better place for me to start fresh.”
There was a pause, then Petunia rose from her seat, moving to Emil’s side. “Well, I wish you well,” she said kindly, surprising even herself with the softness in her tone. “Everyone deserves a second chance.”
Maxwell gave a short nod, his eyes flickering with something like gratitude. “Thank you, ma’am. You’ve been more gracious than I deserve.”
Emil extended his hand, and after a brief moment of hesitation, Maxwell shook it. “Good luck, Maxwell. I hope you find what you’re looking for.”
With a final nod, Maxwell turned and disappeared into the night, leaving the family in peaceful silence once more.
Emil closed the door, turning to Petunia with a faint smile. “Things have certainly changed, haven’t they?”
“They have,” she agreed softly, her hand slipping back into his. “But it’s a good change. It feels like a new chapter.”
He nodded, leading her back to the warmth of the hearth where Janey was now fast asleep, her head resting in Lydia’s lap. Lydia glanced up from the book with a knowing smile. “Looks like storytime has come to an end.”
Petunia chuckled, brushing her fingers through Janey’s hair. “It’s been a long day.”
As the fire crackled softly and the room filled with a sense of peace, Petunia felt the weight of the past finally lifting. The future stretched before them, full of promise, love, and family. Emil’s arm wrapped around her, pulling her close as they watched their family together, safe and happy at last.
“You know,” Emil whispered, his voice low and full of warmth, “I think we’ve found everything we’ve ever needed, right here.”
Petunia smiled, resting her head on his shoulder. “I couldn’t agree more.”
And in that quiet, perfect moment, she knew that no matter what challenges the future might bring, they would face them together—stronger than ever, and with love at the heart of it all.
OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 5 FREEBIES FOR YOU!
Grab my new series, "Brave Hearts of the Frontier", and get 5 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!
Hello my dears, I hope you enjoyed the book and the Extended Epilogue! I will be waiting for your comments here. Thank you 🙂
I agree with everything Virginia said. Very disappointing and now I remember why I typically don’t read the EEs.
Enjoyed the book but definitely not the epilog. It was pretty much totally disconnected from the book. What a let down!
Enjoyed the book; however, the extended epilogue was confusing. What happened to John’s wife Merry and the baby. Also, where did Petunias’ sister come from. In the book she only had brothers.
I loved the story, but this the second book in a row that the extended story had errors. In the actual book John was married to Merry and they were expecting. In the extended story John was courting a women named Mary. What h happened to Merry and the baby?
The other book had the main character giving birth to a baby boy she named Henry. In the extended she had 3 children the oldest being a girl Willa who her husband told her that he would love Willa as if she was his own child. Otherwise both books were very good.
Lovely book however was disappointed in the epilogue?? Petunia had 3 brothers, where did the sister Lydia come from? John was Emil’s foreman married to Merry, where did Mary come from that had yet to be introduced to them?
I’ve love ready your book,great story and some mystery too. Keep tgebooks coming.
The main story is sweet reading.
This extended epilogue seems to be written by another author. Petunia has three brothers and no sisters. Would it be Petunia’s mother arriving for the birth, since her health is improving near end of main narrative.
John Woolworth is married to Merry and her sister, Agnes arrived in Climber’s Creek at the same time as Petunia. Agnes came to town to be with Merry for the birth of Merry’s first child. Emil’s first wife is named Tamsin. Janey is nickname for Emil and Tamsin’s daughter Jane Tamsin Cotton. Question what happened to Petunia’s brother Reggie? Since both Emil and Petunia discussed in the main story about bringing him to Ohio thinking that environment would be better for his breathing problem.
Thank you Ms Lorelei Brogan
My thoughts as well. Very disappointing and now I remember why I typically don’t read the EEs.
I truly enjoy your books, but the extended epilogue for this book did not match the book. The characters were completely different.
Thank you for all of your wonderful books.
Something doesn’t fit in this epilogue. John, Mary, and Petunias family. What happened to John’s marriage to Merry who was pregnant and her sister Agatha? The brothers of Petunia are no longer mentioned. This needs a rewrite!
This was a good plot and story but the EE does not look like one of Loreli’s books and Ext epilogue.
Where is the proof reader? John-Merry; John marries Mary. Petunia only has brothers yet a sister is mentioned in the EE.
Ok this was just awlful. It wasn’t written by the author and nothing matches the story. After such a wonderful story, this just leaves you feeling empty.
Agreeing with all of the above, the errors make it appear that the author really doesn’t care what was written. The enticer to the epilogue names looking to what became of two people who were never mentioned in the story. Sorry to say very sloppy.
The EE throws a spanner in the works. Spoils the rest of the story when it’s out of wack. Would love to hear about Reggie also John and Merry’s baby.
Loved this story with all the action one could want.
enjoyed the story very much but the EE was totally messed up !! i caught all the errors mentioned in the other reviews..it really kinda messed up the story for me..i was disappointed by the epilogue .!!
Disappointed in the extended epilogue.Too many errors and left the storyline incomplete.
It was a great read until the epilogue. The epilogue too away the joy. Characters were not the same. Some added some forgotten?
I have to agree the extended epilogue does not jive with the story although I liked the story.
I agree, the ee was all wrong. It sounded like it came from someone who did not read the story. I enjoyed the story just not the ee.
I agree with Virginia.. different writer. Didn’t bother to finish.
I’m afraid I have to agree with the other comments. There are more discrepancies than consistencies. Where pray tell are the proof readers in any of these books? What about her father as well showing up in his cart? He was in New York. And the supposed sister was there for “several months” when she showed up when Petunia is gettting close to labor. The story is sweet with, of course, the necessary intrigue, but the Extended Epilogue must have been written by someone else (who maybe didn’t even read the book) as Ms Brogan is an excellent writer.
I am totally confused by this EE. None of it goes with the main story. The characters are wrong. Was the author sleeping while writing it or did someone else who didn’t read it to start with?
Another botched EE for a good story. Please, please, have WHOEVER is writing these EE’s to read the book before writing one. This is getting ridiculous. The last several I have read has been screwed up.
The story was good but the epilogue was a turn around I thought the ill brother was supposed to come live with them
Was confused on ending. No brothers mentioned no sisters in main story. John and Mary were already married and were expecting their baby. Didn’t”t say anything about mama.
I loved the story, but the extended epilogue was a disappointment. John and Merry were already married when Petunia arrived. Also Merry’s sister Agatha arrived at the same time as Petunia to help Merry, who was pregnant. Petunia had three brothers and no sisters, the youngest one was a sickly boy who was going to live with petunia and Emil.
The epilogue isn’t enlightening all characters are incorrect. In the story John was married to a pregnant Merry. Petunia also had three brothers and no sister. I would rather there was no epilogue than an inaccurate one. Because of this it will be a while before I read this author again. The epilogue ruined a great story.
I loved the book, but the extended epilogue was not worth reading. I was very disappointed, as it seemed to be written by someone who had not read the book.
Please forward all the above comments to the author. The EE needs to be totally rewritten!