Katherine blushed while Daniel had a smile from ear to ear.
Carl arrived and opened the limo door. Francesco walked inside the house.
Daniel asked Carl which room Katherine would be staying in. He didn’t want to overstep his bounds or cause any disrespect inside of his father’s home.
“She’s staying upstairs. Welcome, Katherine, follow me and I’ll take you to your lovely room.”
Katherine linked her arm in Carl’s as he led her up the stairs. Daniel followed close behind. He was hoping that at least her room would be close to his.
“Here we are,” said Carl as he opened the door to a very large, beautifully designed room.
The first thing that Daniel noticed was the white quilt that had little blue flowers sewn on it. “This is just like the quilt I had on my bed at Rosie’s.” Daniel walked over and ran his hand over the soft fabric.
“Yes, Daniel, Rosie made this quilt for you. She worked very hard and for long hours at a time.”
“Katherine,” began Daniel as he smiled at her, “you will love this quilt.” She made something special to make Katherine feel at home. His love and respect for the older woman grew over the heartfelt gift that she’d made. “My room is about six doors down on the right, Katherine. If you’d like I’ll show it to you.”
“Daniel, this is your room too. Your father insisted.”
Daniel stood there looking stunned for a moment, then thanked Carl. When he left, Daniel threw his arms around Katherine so excitedly, that her feet lifted from the ground. “I love you, Katherine, welcome home,” he whispered, with his face buried in her neck.
After helping to unpack Katherine’s things, Daniel led her downstairs by the hand and into Francesco’s study.
“Francesco, I can’t thank you enough,” Katherine said. Her words just seemed to be stuck in her throat. She wanted to say more, but the last thing she wanted to do was to break down in front of this kind man. Everything that Francesco and Daniel had done for her and her uncle was overwhelming her.
“Katherine, you’re family. My son loves you, therefore I love you. Rosie is on the way in from visiting the horses. She’s really looking forward to seeing you both.”
“And here I am!” Rosie walked in at the exact moment and threw her arms around Daniel. “I’ve missed you so much!”
“I’ve missed you too, Rosie. Father told me about the engagement! I couldn’t be happier. I love you both so much.”
“I always wanted a son like you. I can spoil you more frequently now, Daniel.” Rosie winked and patted his face.
“Speaking of spoiled, that quilt you made…it’s a replica of the one that was in my room on the farm.”
“I knew you liked that quilt. When it burned in the fire, I had to make another one. It’s just like the old one, only a little bit bigger.”
“Rosie, thank you.” Daniel kissed her cheek and wrapped his arms around her. “Do you know Katherine?”
“I’ve seen her uncle a few times, but I wasn’t able to get out much. Nice to finally meet this special girl I’ve heard so much about.” Rosie gave Katherine a nice hug.
“Likewise! I’ve heard such beautiful things about you, Rosie. Through Daniel, I feel like I already know you. You’re one amazing woman.” Katherine smiled, meaning every word she said.
“I imagine you two are simply starving.” Rosie always had to make sure that bellies were full.
“Three…” Francesco laughed.
“Four,” laughed Rosie as she headed off toward the kitchen. Rosie had grown on the chef and he treated her like an equal, even asking for her advice.
Francesco had made good on his promise, and all of Andy’s bills were covered. The bar was paid for and no one bothered Andy anymore. Francesco had arranged for a limo to take him back to Prairie, and the bar had thrown a big welcome back party. Andy was deeply touched by his friends. Francesco wanted to allow Andy to inform his friends of all the new plans. They were well received, especially over prospects of new jobs.
Now that Daniel had taken over the company, Francesco had more free time to devote to both Rosie and Tennessee. He had formed a committee for the projects in Prairie and held monthly meetings so the townspeople could be directly involved. Francesco convinced every official in the state to help out and was even successful at getting other wealthy businessmen to pitch in.
Andy had already started his list of people to hire for positions. Francesco gave him full rein of that. The excitement in the small town was starting to bloom, and hope was returning to Prairie.