Chapter 39: Chapter 39: Another Trial

Ripley's POV

The morning came too early. It was nearly eight when Jake finally roused her from her sleep. Ripley stumbled from bed and pulled on some clothes, praying these stayed intact.

Jake helped her find some breakfast, filling her up with fresh fruit, cereal, toast, ice water, and a small glass of juice.

"How many times do you think we're gonna get stabbed today?" Ripley joked.

"I didn't get stabbed any," Jake teased.

"I do my best to protect what's mine," Ripley replied.

The look in Jake's eyes made her core turn molten and her knees weak.

"Yours?" he asked quietly, quirking an eyebrow.

Ripley grinned at him.

He grinned back, tugging her along a little faster toward the pole barn.

Jake pulled up short when he realized Cody and Clay had joined his father.

Ripley, though, beamed at the boys.