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Several Years Later…
The sun cast a warm, golden glow over the picturesque landscape of Utah, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange as it began its descent behind the rolling hills. In the Carson family homestead, nestled in the heart of this tranquil setting, life had settled into a peaceful rhythm.
Ellie Carson, once a spirited young woman plucked from the bustling streets of Boston, now stood as a testament to resilience and adaptation. Her marriage to Jesse McCallister had been forged in the crucible of uncertainty, but over the years, it had grown into a love as strong and enduring as the rugged wilderness that surrounded their home.
As Ellie watched her twin daughters, Lily and Rose, playfully chase each other through the yard, she couldn’t help but smile. They were the embodiment of the wild spirit that had drawn her to the American West. With their fiery red hair and bright blue eyes, they were a perfect blend of their parents, and Ellie had every intention of raising them to be strong, fierce, and independent, just as she had become.
“Momma, look what we found!” Lily exclaimed, holding up a freshly picked bouquet of wildflowers.
Ellie knelt down to her daughters’ eye level and admired their treasure. “Oh, those are beautiful, just like the two of you,” she said, brushing a lock of hair away from Lily’s freckled face.
“We thought they would make the house pretty,” Rose added with a mischievous grin.
“Well, let’s put them in a vase, and they’ll make the house even lovelier,” Ellie replied, taking the flowers and leading her daughters back inside.
Inside the cozy homestead, the walls were adorned with family photographs and warm memories. Ellie’s parents, Anne and Charles, had relocated to Utah as well, not far from their daughter’s home. It was a decision made easier by the undeniable bond they had formed with Jesse and his father, Jasper, over the years.
Anne, once the voice of reason and guidance in Ellie’s life, had found new purpose in her role as a grandmother. She doted on Lily and Rose, sharing stories of their family’s history and instilling in them the values of love, loyalty, and strength. She had embraced the spirit of the Wild West with open arms, and her heart was forever tied to the land and the people who had become her extended family.
Daisy, Ellie’s cousin, had also found her place in this tight-knit community. She had married a kind-hearted doctor named Benjamin, and their home was filled with hope and anticipation as they awaited the arrival of their first child. The Carsons and the McCallisters rejoiced in Daisy’s happiness, knowing that the trials and tribulations of the past had given way to a brighter future.
As the evening sun bathed the room in a warm glow, Ellie, Jesse, Anne, and Daisy gathered around the dining table for a hearty meal. The rich aroma of a home-cooked roast filled the air, a testament to the culinary skills Ellie had honed over the years.
“So, Jesse,” Anne began, her eyes twinkling with mischief, “have you finally convinced Ellie to share the secret of her famous apple pie?”
Jesse chuckled, a contented smile on his face. “I’m afraid not, Anne. She keeps that recipe locked away like a treasure.”
Ellie leaned over to plant a kiss on Jesse’s cheek. “Some secrets are meant to be kept,” she teased, earning a loving grin from her husband.
The meal was filled with laughter, stories, and shared moments that spoke of the deep bonds that had formed between these once-strangers. They were no longer defined by their pasts but by the love and unity that had grown from the seeds of uncertainty.
After dinner, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape, the family gathered on the porch to enjoy the serenity of the evening. Their contented silhouettes were a testament to the enduring power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.
And as the stars began to twinkle in the clear Utah sky, casting their celestial light upon the land, there was a sense that, in this corner of the American Wild West, a new chapter had begun—a chapter filled with hope, happiness, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
The passage of time had brought not only peace and happiness but also an intriguing mystery to the Carson-McCallister household. Every few months, like clockwork, an unmarked letter would arrive at their doorstep. The letter contained cryptic updates and friendly greetings, leaving them all with a sense of intrigue.
On this particular evening, as the family gathered on the porch, the mysterious letters became a topic of conversation once again.
“Any news from our elusive correspondent?” Jesse inquired, glancing at his father, Jasper.
Jasper chuckled softly, his eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief. “Not a word. Our mysterious friend continues to keep us guessing.”
Ellie’s curiosity got the better of her. “Do you have any theories, Daisy?”
Daisy, who had always been fascinated by mysteries, leaned forward with a thoughtful expression. “I’ve considered a few possibilities. Maybe it’s someone who wishes to remain anonymous but wants to ensure we’re doing well.”
Anne nodded in agreement. “That’s a possibility. But it’s strange that they never reveal their identity.”
As they discussed the mysterious letters, Lily and Rose played nearby, their laughter adding to the sense of warmth and unity that permeated the gathering.
Jesse’s father, Jasper, decided to add his own theory to the mix. “Perhaps it’s someone from our past, Jesse, someone who wants to keep tabs on our progress and make sure we’ve left our old lives behind.”
Jesse frowned, his mind briefly drifting to memories he had long buried. “It’s been years since I walked away from that life, Father. I hope whoever it is can find peace in knowing we’ve all moved on.”
Anne’s voice carried a touch of concern. “I just hope it’s not someone with ill intentions.”
Daisy attempted to lighten the mood. “Well, whoever they are, they certainly have a flair for the dramatic. It’s like we’re characters in one of those thrilling dime novels.”
The evening continued with laughter, speculation, and a sense of unity that had come to define their family. Despite the mystery of the letters, they were determined to focus on the present and the happiness they had found together.
As the night sky filled with stars once more, they couldn’t help but feel grateful for the bonds of love and friendship that had carried them through their trials. They knew that, whatever the future held, they would face it together, as a family united by both blood and choice.
***
Several more years passed, and life continued to unfold in Grandville, Oregon. Jesse and Ellie’s twin daughters, Lily and Rose, had grown into spirited young girls with a deep love for adventure, much like their parents. They had inherited their mother’s independent spirit and their father’s sense of curiosity.
On a warm summer afternoon, Jesse and Ellie sat on the porch, watching their daughters play in the yard. The laughter of children filled the air, a sound that brought immeasurable joy to their hearts.
“They’re growing up so fast,” Ellie remarked, her eyes fixed on the twins.
Jesse nodded in agreement. “Seems like just yesterday they were born, and now they’re exploring the world around them.”
As if on cue, Lily and Rose came running toward their parents, their faces flushed with excitement. “Mama! Papa! Look what we found!” Lily exclaimed, holding up a beautifully colored butterfly in her hands.
Rose chimed in, her eyes shining with wonder. “It’s the prettiest butterfly we’ve ever seen!”
Ellie and Jesse shared a smile, both grateful for the simple joys their daughters brought into their lives. “It’s lovely, girls,” Ellie said. “But remember, we must always be gentle with nature’s wonders.”
Jasper, now in his twilight years, joined them on the porch, his presence a testament to the enduring bonds of family. “Speaking of wonders, I received another one of those mysterious letters today,” he announced.
Ellie’s curiosity was piqued. “Any clues this time?”
Jasper opened it and read its contents aloud, evoking a sense of nostalgia.
‘’Dear McCallister family,
I hope this letter finds you all in good health and high spirits. Life has its way of surprising us, doesn’t it? As I reflect on the path we’ve taken, I’m reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and its capacity for transformation.
I may remain a shadow in your lives, a presence never fully revealed, but I want you to know that I’m grateful for the second chance life has afforded me. I’ve found my own path to redemption and peace, far from the darkness of my past.
Jesse, Ellie, I’m thankful that you found each other and built a loving family. Your daughters are a testament to the love that has flourished between you. May they grow into strong, independent women, as I’m sure you’ve taught them.
Jasper, your unwavering support and love have been a beacon of hope in my life. I may never fully repay the debt I owe you, but please know that you’ve made a difference in my world.
To the Carson and McCallister families, I send my best wishes from afar. May your lives be filled with happiness, and may you continue to find strength in each other’s love.
With warm regards,
A Friend from the Past”
The family sat in thoughtful silence, their hearts touched by the letter. The mystery of Cynthia’s transformation remained unsolved, but they felt a sense of closure and forgiveness in her message.
Raising their glasses for a toast, Ellie spoke the words that had become a mantra of their lives: “To family, to love, and to the journeys that shape us.”
Embracing the uncertain future hand in hand, they knew their bonds were unbreakable, and the love they shared would continue to light their way.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the ranch, Ellie took Jesse’s hand in hers. “We’ve come a long way from Boston, haven’t we?”
Jesse smiled, his eyes reflecting the love he felt for his wife. “Indeed, we have. And I wouldn’t change a thing.”
With their daughters at their side and their family gathered around, they watched the stars appear in the evening sky, a celestial reminder of the mysteries that life held. It was a moment of contentment, a pause in their journey, and a celebration of the life they had built together.
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OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!
Grab my new series, "Brave Hearts of the Frontier", and get 2 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 🙂
It was confusing at the end, who is living in Utah and who is living in Oregon? Are sthe families living both places?
Also, in the book Daisy marries Ben, at least that’s the plan. In the Epilogue it says Daisy married a Doctor.. What happened to Ben? What happened to their store? Where was Anna in the EE?
Thank you, I was just as confused! It seems as a different writer was finishing the story.
It was a good story I loved the characters of Ellie and Jesse. Only the EE was very confusing all the names were different.
Your extended epilogue seems to be written by someone else. Anna became Anne throughout. I notice that kind of issue with a lot of the extended epilogues, and I don’t mean just yours.
I did enjoy the book very much as I always do.
I loved the book. At times I was on the edge of my chair. So glad it turned out this way. And I can guess who the letters were from.
Enjoyable tale, but confusing with mention of Utah & then back to Oregon as if it were the same place. Seemed more like using the same tale from another book then adding to the one just read. Also change of names using Anne as the mother Inlaw & not the original or using it as the Aunt Anna. Was disappointed. Although the book itself was delightful, & look forward to more. Just maybe not the add on. Thank you for the story.
A little confusing… had them in Utah and Oregon and Ellie’s parents names wrong. Ben was not a dr….
I use to proof read newspapers and books
They lived in Oregon, but in the extended episode, you said Utah twice. It was the McCallister homestead and not the Carson homestead. Daisy married Ben, a carter, not a doctor.
Good catch, Karly!
I loved the story.. was confused with the Daisy Benjamin story. I look forward to reading more of your books.
Thank you so much! I’m glad you enjoyed the story. I appreciate your feedback on the Daisy Benjamin part—I’ll keep that in mind for future books. Looking forward to sharing more stories with you!
A wonderful story. Unfortunately things from a person’s past can come up and cause problems – with lots of truths and dangers arriving causing problems.
One question – In the book, Daisy was making plans to marry Ben, a carter, who delivered produce & other items to be sold elsewhere. But the EE says she married Benjamin, kind-hearted doctor. So just what was Ben????
I loved the story & the families! There was just enough bad guys & drama especially with Jaspers secrets!!!!!!!!
I loved Jesse & Ellie’s story!!!!
The EE was great …i was a bit confused about Ben//Benjamin??
This was a wonderful read!!
I also loved the story, but am also confused by Ben’s job. Also thought that Ellie’s dad’s name was Paul. What about Anna? She was left out of the EE altogether.
Ellie’s mother name is Julia not Anne, in the book, but here Ellie’s parents Paul and Anne move to Utah to be closer. Anna is the aunt, Daisy’s mother and a sister to Paul.
Utah or Oregon. Ben the Carter or Benjamin the doctor?
Same questions as Bets, Celia and Connie.
Made the ending confusing
Ellie’s parents are Julia and Paul. Ben is not a doctor but a carter, one who delivers. Utah mentioned but I thought it was Origin. Why the confusion and changing up of details?
A very good book. I thoroughly enjoyed it reading it in 2 days. Thanks for good clean books 📚
Great story but some confusion at the end of who is who doing what?
I felt the basic story line was great. It was exciting and interesting, however I was very disappointed with the errors in the writing. Words missing, or wrong words used—the editing was poor.
I was especially disappointed with all of the errors in the EE. It said they were living in Utah, then later it was back to Oregon. Ellie’s mother was Julia in the main story, but Anne in the EE. But Anna was Daisy’s mother in the book. Very confusing. How did Ben suddenly become a doctor?
I do appreciate your storylines as I have read other books authored by you. I do suggest better editors.
I loved the book but not the extended epilogue. I don’t care for those extended epilogues. They never match the story and are by a different author. I think the author might be better off writing and extending their own epilogues. Those extended epilogues ruin the whole story. I think I could have written a better one myself. I loved every person in the book and didn’t like them being all mixed up. I wonder if the person writing the extended epilogue even read the book.
Thank you for your feedback! I’m glad you enjoyed the main story, and I appreciate your thoughts on the epilogue. Your perspective is valuable, and I’ll definitely consider it for future projects.
I so enjoyed the story I could not put it down. Such trials and supence. Love everlasting. Everyone has a past and skeletons but with faith and love all comes to pass. So glad for the extended epilogue and knowing Allie and Jessie had children. Did not know Ben was a Doctor???
I agree. Why change characters. It seems the author didn’t know their own story or the EE was written by someone who didn’t read the book.
Nice love story ,with enough excitement and mystery to drive it along. Good likable characters ,including Ben the handsome reliable friend. So that brings me to the epilogue, what happened to Ben.? How come Ellie’s mom changed her name from Julia to Anne. And what did Utah have to do with anything. they were still living in Oregon and what became of Aunt Anna? I do read these extended epilogue when a book is a single novel and there’s now book 2 to see if everything turns out …
These are all good points! I will get back to you.
Book was very good. The EE stunk. Could have done without it.
Was sorry I read the extended epilogue. It was like it was written about another family.
Like others have mentioned I was confused by the epilogue, I think it requires a little revision
My comments mirror BETS, the career for Ben stood out. The story was extremely entertaining…I DREAD multi-book collections as I feel (normally) that they arevtoo short and disconnected to make it feel complete. You changed my perspective. Few typos which I noted. An À+ BOOK.
Wondering about all the things mentioned in comments also?