The Rancher's Rules

“The hamster?” the minister asked.

“No. Our daughter. Zoe.”

Grant met Zoe’s eyes, and they both burst into laughter. He turned back to the minister. “Go on.”

The pastor rubbed his hand across his bald head. “You sure? Wouldn’t it be better to wait until the rodent is found?”

Zoe shook her head. “That’s not a rodent. It’s Bud, and they’ll find him eventually. Please go on.”

Grant hoped they caught Bud before the hamster found his way into the church walls and its wiring.

The minister led Zoe in her vows. When it was her turn to speak, Zoe took a deep breath. Tears misted her eyes and Grant was pleased that he had been right. Her voice was husky and full of emotion when she made her promises.

Tyler shouted from behind Grant. “I’ve got him.”

Grant looked back over his shoulder to see a small furry head peeking out from Tyler’s fist. It seemed only right that Bud had witnessed their marriage. After all, he had been instrumental in bringing Grant to his senses where Zoe was concerned.

He turned back to his wife. His wife. Damn, that sounded good. From the look in her eyes, she felt the same way. They smiled and turned together to face the minister, who was muttering about most irregular events. The pandemonium in the church settled down, and the minister finished the ceremony and gave Grant permission to kiss Zoe.

Grant lowered his head and took Zoe’s mouth in a kiss that sealed their future and their love.