Free Reckless Territory by Kate Watterson

a sprawling country mansion set amidst the lush greenery of Wiltshire like where she’d spent her childhood. That aside, she liked the overall homey feel of the space, and if it was rustic, she didn’t mind. Her former homes were lost forever, not just to the debts that had claimed them, but to bad memories.
    It was odd to realize it, but she’d hadn’t minded sleeping under the stars either, though a hot bath would be a boon, and she spied an overturned tub in the corner that might be just for that purpose. The courtyard, too, was charming, with stately trees and a small spring. There were even a few chickens pecking around, though she would not have the slightest idea what to do with one. A meal that didn’t consist of beans and bacon would be most welcome right now, but she wasn’t complaining. Fate had stepped in, and despite a few minor problems, she had been given a second chance at a new life.
    Most women, she thought as she wandered over to one of the dirty, streaked windows, were given one man. One lover. One hero.
    Her luck had finally turned. She’d been gifted with three.
     
     
    They’d planned on eating dinner around the hearth, but the fallen chimney precluded a fire, and they had discovered it was full of birds’ nests, not to mention it was a warm night. As a result, they’d chosen the porch for their meal, and though it was just the same old trail fare, it tasted somehow better now that they were home.
    Home. That was a nice word. One Robert hadn’t been able to use in a long time. It had been his choice to leave Massachusetts, and he didn’t regret it, but as the years passed he’d thought more about the lack of permanence in his life. He wasn’t even thirty, but that meant nothing in this part of the country. Had they continued to ride unfettered, but also without purpose, he doubted any of them would ever reach that age. He bent and slashed another branch with his knife, making sure it was cut close. It had grown dark, and he’d been assigned the task of ensuring Victoria had a decent bed inside for a change.
    “Thank you.”
    He glanced up at the sound of the soft voice, and despite his desire for nonchalance every muscle in his body tightened. He nodded and resumed arranging the fragrant boughs cut from one of the tall pines at the edge of the meadow. “The mattress was infested with mice, I’m afraid,” he said. “The house has been deserted—except for the vermin who took advantage of not having human occupants—for well over two years. This should make a soft bed.”
    It was true. Before they’d heard by word of mouth the ranch was up for sale, the owner had packed up anything that could be carried and moved on. It was remote, and maybe too much for some people, but perfect for them. He picked up her bedroll, spread it out and then stood.
    “It smells like a forest,” Victoria said, her slight smile lighting her face. “I’ve gotten so used to sleeping outdoors, I am not sure I can have a roof over my head now.”
    “The closest town is a decent ways driving a wagon, but we’ll be getting supplies from there soon. We need things for the house, and you’ll get a real mattress.”
    “You all go to too much trouble on my behalf.”
    “No trouble at all.”
    “I disagree.”
    She was too close. Not by design—he was pretty sure if she was halfway across the territory she’d be too close—but it translated to being within reach as he straightened. He no longer trusted himself.
    Cole and Jace had gone out to the barns. It was a tacit agreement between them all that although the valley was isolated it wasn’t necessarily safe, and one of them needed to protect her at all times. There were all kinds of dangers out there, from renegades to wildlife to whatever the hell else might happen.
    “I’ll be right outside your doorway,” he told her, trying to ignore the urge to take her into his arms. “It’s a warm night. Jace and Cole are going to sleep outside. We need to