"Proof that everything Lena took was legally hers. Proof that you tried to bribe me to lie. Proof that you have a pattern of harassing vulnerable women. Proof that you assaulted Miss Crowell on my property," Jonas added. "That's not civil anymore, Mercer.
That's criminal." Reed looked around wildly, finding no allies. Even Walsh had stepped away, distancing himself from his client's meltdown. "This is ridiculous," Reed tried one last time. "You're all ganging up on me because of this this woman who means nothing. She's divorced, barren, worthless.
Why are you protecting her?" "Because she's not worthless," Ruthie said clearly from where she stood by the door. "She's brave and kind and she makes my father smile again. She helps us with our lessons and holds us when we cry and makes our house feel like a home." "That's not worthless. That's everything." Reed sneered. "A child's opinion means nothing." "Maybe not," Sheriff Brennan said, "but mine does.
And based on what I've heard today, I'm arresting you, Reed Mercer, for filing false charges, attempted bribery, and assault. Mr. Walsh, your client is going to need a real good lawyer." "You can't arrest me." Reed backed toward the door. "I have rights. I have" He never finished.
Jonas moved with surprising speed, blocking the exit. "You're not running, not this time." Two deputies appeared, responding to the sheriff's signal. They took Reed by the arms as he struggled and shouted, dragging him toward the cells in the back. "This isn't over." Reed's voice echoed down the hallway. "I'll get out.
I have connections. I'll make you all pay." The door slammed shut, cutting off his threats. Walsh gathered his papers with shaking hands. "Sheriff, I had no idea. If I'd known the charges were fraudulent" "Save it for the judge," Brennan said wearily.
"You might want to consider who you represent more carefully in the future." The attorney fled, leaving the rest of them standing in stunned silence. "Is it really over?" Lena finally asked, afraid to believe. "The charges will be dropped," Sheriff Brennan confirmed. "And with Mercer in custody, he can't threaten you anymore. Judge Harrison will want formal statements from everyone, but the worst is past." Lena's knees went weak.
Jonas caught her, steadying her as relief crashed over her in waves. "Thank you," she managed, looking around at the people who'd stood with her, Jonas, Ruthie, Samuel, Reverend Matthews, even Margaret. All of you. I don't know how to You don't have to thank us," Margaret said, wiping her eyes. "I should be begging your forgiveness, for betraying your confidence, for almost taking his money, for not being strong enough to stand with you sooner." Lena crossed to her cousin and pulled her into a fierce hug.
"You're here now. That's what matters." They held each other, two women who'd been torn apart by circumstance finding their way back to family. "There's still tomorrow," Ruthie said tentatively. "The wedding. Is it still?" "Absolutely," Jonas said firmly, "unless Lena's changed her mind." Lena looked at this man who'd fought for her, protected her, believed in her when she could barely believe in herself.
"Not a chance." The next morning dawned clear and bright, the storm having passed in the night. Lena woke to find the children already bustling with preparations. Esther and Rose had picked wildflowers from the meadow, daisies and black-eyed Susans and delicate mountain bluebells. Ruthie had pressed Lena's blue dress until it looked nearly new. Maggie had baked a cake, lopsided but made with love.