For a moment, I felt an unexpected fear.
Perhaps she would remain in town.
Perhaps the comforts and opportunities would draw her away.
Perhaps I'd wake another morning in the cabin and discover that the happiness we'd shared belonged to winter alone.
I swallowed.
"Whatever you choose, Josephine, I'll respect it."
She watched me.
Then asked.
"And what would you choose?"
I looked toward her.
For a moment, I couldn't speak.
Then I answered.
"You."
Her eyes filled.
I took a slow breath.
"Every morning, if you'll let me."
Josephine reached for my hand.
For several seconds, she held it without speaking.
Then she smiled through tears.
"You foolish cowboy."
I laughed shakily.
"Reckon I am."
She shook her head.
"I didn't spend four months falling in love with you just to leave because spring arrived."
I felt my chest tighten.
She continued.
"But I don't want to disappear into those mountains and give up every dream I've worked toward."
I nodded immediately.
"Nor should you."
Her expression softened.
I leaned closer.
"Then we build something that makes room for both our lives."
She studied me.
"How?"
I considered the question.
"We improve the cabin. Make the road safer. Arrange a wagon service when we need town supplies."
She smiled faintly.
I continued.
"You establish your workshop and sell your designs. I'll help with the traveling and deliveries when you want me to."
Josephine's eyes widened.
"And when winter comes?"
I looked toward the stars.
"We prepare properly."
She laughed.
"That sounds suspiciously practical."
I smiled.
"Been accused of worse."
Then I grew serious.
"And if you decide the mountains aren't what you want someday, we talk about it. Together."
For a moment, she couldn't speak.
Then she squeezed my hand.
"That's all I've ever wanted, Hiram."
I looked toward her.
"What?"
"A future where I get to choose."
I leaned forward and kissed her.
She returned the kiss gently, smiling against my lips.
And when we finally drew apart, she whispered.
"I choose you."
We returned to the cabin in July.
The mountains looked different without snow.
Wildflowers covered the meadow.
The stream ran clear.
And the pine trees filled the valley with the warm scent of summer.
Copper recognized the stable immediately.
Belle whinnied when we approached.
Josephine laughed at the sight of the cabin.
For a moment, she looked almost overwhelmed.
"Home."
The word settled over me with an unexpected warmth.