Rori and Jackson: The Sons of Dusty Walker by Randi Alexander Page B

cold wind blew into
the room. “Momma says we shouldn’t waste energy by leaving the door open.”
    The woman stood and looked at the eight adults in the room.
“She’s a wise woman.”
    Behind her, a middle-aged man wearing a chauffeur’s cap
walked in carrying wrapped packages. “Ma’am?”
    “Under the tree, Barnes. Thank you.” She walked over to the
brothers. “I just assumed I was still welcome. Although your father and his
wife passed, I had a feeling you’d all be gathering tonight.”
    “Yes, ma’am. You’re more than welcome.” Killian stepped
forward. “May I take your coat?”
    She shrugged it off, revealing a cheery red blouse and long
denim skirt. “Thank you.” Lifting a brow, she glanced at the other boys. “This
one has manners.”
    Dylan stepped forward. “Let me get you something to drink,
then we’ll make introductions.”
    “I know who you all are.” She held out her hand to the
youngest brother. “Dylan.” She spoke the other brothers’ names as she grasped
each of their hands in a firm grip. “I believe you’re all the family I have
left. Am I intruding if I ask to spend Christmas with you?”
    “Not an intrusion at all. You’re welcome any time.” Rogue
gestured for her to join them in the living room.
    She winked at Dylan. “I’d do well with a few fingers of that
whiskey your dad squirrelled away for special occasions.”
    Rori lifted her brows and looked at Jackson. He nodded. He’d
told her the story Marliss and Lou had shared with him. He fetched her a glass
as she met the ladies, then they all sat in the living room as her chauffeur
hauled her suitcase up the steps, as if this was indeed a regular occurrence.
    “I’m Mercy Walker.” She announced it as if her name was her
pride and joy. Sipping the whiskey, she relaxed in her chair. “I’ve got a
good-sized cattle ranch in Idaho, and will expect you all to come for Easter,
as was the arrangement between your father and me.”
    She frowned for a few seconds. “My husband, Grover, was your
father’s first cousin. Grover, he…passed away, gone nearly four years now.” Her
strong jaw tilted up. “I have four daughters who are too busy this year to come
home for the holidays.”
    “We’re sorry to hear that.” Zoe raised her hand, looking
like she might reach out and squeeze Mercy’s hand, then dropping it as if she
thought better of it.
    Mercy puffed out a breath. “The four of them, they work too
hard. Honor is an assistant to the First Lady at the White House.”
    “Oh, wow.” Rori blurted the words out, smiling. “That’s
amazing.”
    Mercy tipped her head. “She’s always been the serious one.
Then there’s Faith. She’s a photographer. Always on the road, that one.”
    “Last but definitely not least, are my twins, Chastity and
Courage. Courage works on a crab boat in Alaska. Chastity…” She shook her head.
“Chastity...I'm not sure where she is, I just hope she's okay.”
    “And none of them could make it home this year?” Kit asked.
    “None of them have made it home since their father died.”
Mercy stood, setting down her glass. “I’m going upstairs and freshen up. Thank
you for your kindness in letting a lonely old lady join you tonight.”
    The men stood. “Ma’am, you’re welcome any time.” Rogue
sounded too quiet.
    “Bless you all.” Mercy turned and walked up the steps, her
back straight and proud.
    Once their aunt ascended out of earshot, the eight of them
gathered close.
    “That’s so sad.” Zoe lifted Hunter in her arms and cuddled
him. “No one should spend the holidays away from their loved ones.”
    Dylan drew his bride against his chest and kissed her
temple. “Maybe her girls will come around. If us stubborn Walker men can move
on from our past, I’m pretty sure anything is possible.”
    “That’s true. We’ve proven how hard-headed Walkers can be.”
Jackson pulled Rori close to his side. “But not half as tough as these Red
Creek women. They had