Midnight Thunder(INCR) by Vicki Lewis Thompson

and men are prone to fall on their swords for the glory of the cause. Even Herb has a touch of that. If he could come up with a grand gesture at great personal cost, he’d do it without another thought.”
    Lexi smiled. “You’re right. He would.”
    â€œDon’t get me wrong. I love those guys with all my heart, but I don’t trust their judgment when it comes to something like the ranch. It sheltered the Brotherhood from the storm. I know it did, and they have a right to be sentimental about it, but not if it means giving up everything they’ve worked for.”
    â€œExactly.” Lexi studied Rosie. “So how are you feeling? Because you look pretty perky to me.”
    â€œTo be honest, seeing those three boys has done me a world of good. Also, I wasn’t eating right. And worrying interferes with your digestion, too. I’ve been feeling stronger every minute. I’m viewing this as a warning not to let this situation take me—or anyone I love—down.”
    â€œUnderstood. But what’s next? Are you planning to tell them or just let them find out by themselves? They will, you know. They won’t leave town without figuring it out.”
    â€œAnd Cade’s not leaving at all.”
    Lexi blinked. “He told you that?”
    â€œDidn’t have to. He could stay away as long as he didn’t come back for a visit. But now that he’s home, the glue is taking hold. The other two boys, I’m not so sure. But then again, they didn’t leave a sweetheart here.”
    â€œRosie, don’t get your hopes up about—”
    â€œI won’t, I won’t. I have enough to keep me busy without obsessing about you and Cade. As to your question, I’d like you to tell them. Tonight.”
    â€œTonight?” Her voice squeaked in surprise.
    â€œI know it’s a big thing to ask, but I’d like you to drive back with them and have a powwow around the kitchen table. You know they’ll have a powwow with or without you. I want you to be a part of it. And break the news.”
    â€œOh, Rosie, I don’t know. I think they’d rather hear it from you or Herb.”
    â€œNot necessarily. If one of us tells them, they’ll have to be careful what they say. If you tell them, they’ll be free to cuss and carry on as much as they want. I’ve been thinking about this ever since Cade showed up this morning, and you’re the right messenger. I’m sure of it.”
    â€œThat makes some sort of crazy sense.” Lexi had wanted to be part of the reunion tonight, anyway, but now she’d come bearing bad news. She might not be a welcome guest for long.
    â€œBesides, they have a slight transportation problem. I’ve heard them arguing about it. If all three of them ride home in Cade’s truck, one of them has to go in the back or they have to somehow cram into the front. Damon and Finn aren’t happy about either option. If you go, too, you can remedy that situation.”
    â€œWhat if they don’t want me there?”
    â€œI personally think they’d love to have you there, but if you’re worried about it, just offer to give Damon or Finn a ride to the ranch. They’ll invite you to stay for a drink and you’re golden.”
    â€œOkay. I’ll do it. Now I’d better make way for the horde outside your door. It’s getting to be standing room only out there. I’m waiting for the fire department to show up and start ushering people out of the hallway.”
    Rosie laughed, and suddenly she looked about twenty-five. “I’m not the least bit happy about ending up here, and the hospital gowns couldn’t be less flattering, but I love getting to see all my friends. And having my guys show up is fantastic, as long as they don’t screw up their lives as a result.”
    â€œI’ll do what I can.” Lexi pushed back her chair. “I’m a little