by Sable Hunter
“Oh, she keeps to herself. Doesn’t talk to anyone but Fancy and her brother. Gentry worries himself to death about her, but she won’t have much to do with him at all. I think he intimidates her.”
“She’ll come around.” Reno remembered how scared she was the night they rescued her. Of course, Reno knew his own looks hadn’t helped anything. She’d been far warier of him than she’d been of Gentry and Clay. Since then, she avoided all men for the most part. “I guess it’ll just take some time and patience to bring her around.” He held up the doll. “I’ll go put this in my saddlebag right now.”
“Sleep well.”
Reno bid King a goodnight, then headed out to settle Traveler into his stall with plenty of hay and water. “See you in the morning, pretty boy.” The horse whinnied his appreciation for the compliment and the attention.
Feeling the miles and hours since he last rested, Reno decided to put off a dip in the spring until morning. Right now, all he wanted to do was close his eyes and let his mind rest. The moon was high in the sky, giving off enough light for him to see the way from the barn to the bunkhouse with no problems. Before entering, he stepped around back into the nearby woods to do his business. Afterward, he eased into the bunkhouse, being careful not to wake the occupants. He needn’t have worried; Reno shook his head in amusement as he heard Jericho and Boone snoring up a storm. They were almost in sync, sounding like a couple of bullfrogs on a lily pad.
Reno took his time undressing, laying out some clean clothes. He made sure to transfer the medicine bag Ela gave him to the pants he would be wearing come morning. Once he was nude, he stretched out on the bed and pulled the covers up to his waist. As he lay there, he couldn’t help but smile at the thought of King and Fancy having a baby. They hadn’t been married very long, just a few months. Despite their rocky start, no one could doubt they were perfect for one another. The sweet woman was the best thing that ever happened to the Captain. Reno chuckled remembering how he and the other men took it upon themselves to find their Captain a mail-order bride. “Damn lucky he didn’t drag us behind the house and shoot us.”
Reno hoped he’d be so lucky one day. Find someone to love. Someone to share his life and his bed. “Someday,” he whispered, recalling what his mother told him she’d seen in the still waters of the Tennessee River. “Someday, I’ll find the girl Sojourner said awaits me at the end of the rainbow.” So far, she’d eluded him. Yet, there were times when he could almost feel her presence…almost see her face.
…When Reno awakened, he was alone. Apparently, he’d slept longer than he intended. After a quick dip in the spring, he dressed and set out to the main house for breakfast. Fancy insisted on feeding the men twice a day. To say they were appreciative was an understatement. After surviving on army grub and enduring each other’s culinary attempts, having a good cook prepare their meals was heaven.
“Get enough beauty sleep, Reno?” Jericho motioned for him to come over and take a seat. “Have some coffee.” He filled up a cup from the pot sitting in the middle of the table. “Boone and I have already fed the livestock and filled Fancy’s woodbin.”
“You’ve been busy. I’ll make up the difference when I get back from my trip. Although, you can’t blame me for sleeping late, it’s hard to rest with you two sawing logs.” He spoke to Fancy, then joined them, eyeing the platters filled with flapjacks, eggs, and ham.
“You’d best eat up,” Boone told him as he speared another flapjack. “You’re going to get mighty hungry on the trail.”
Reno nodded and filled his plate, feeling a pang of remorse for his friend. “Will do.” Boone nearly starved to death as a prisoner of war in the hellhole of Elmira prison, so he was always worried about people having enough to eat. “Where’s Gentry? I’d like to see him before I leave.”
“At your service, squire.”
Hearing the voice behind him, Reno grinned. “I’m going to miss that accent something fierce, Duke.”
“I’m not surprised. The Queen’s English is butchered more often than hogs in this part of the world.” He straddled the end of the bench so he could face the others. “I have something I want you to deliver to Wallace.”
“Money? No.” Reno’s face went solemn. “I told you I will settle his fee. You’ve done enough.” He patted his pockets. “I have enough gold to pay the man.”
Gentry started to say something, but Amelia came up to the table and he froze. She cut her big blue eyes at him and seemed equally uncomfortable. As hesitant as a young doe, she slowly put down a pan of biscuits.
“Thank you, Amelia,” Gentry said softly. The girl just blinked, giving him the faintest of smiles as she backed away.
“King gave me the doll you made for Tess. She’s going to love it, Amelia.” Reno watched the woman’s cheeks glow red from the attention.
“I’m glad,” she whispered, then turned to flee. Once she was gone, the Englishman let out the breath he’d been holding.
The other men watched the scene play out. Once Amelia was out of earshot, Jericho whispered loudly. “You two eye one another like a fox and a rabbit.”
“Hush.” Gentry cautioned him. “She’s leery enough of me as it is.”
His friend didn’t have to say it, the fact that Gentry wanted Amelia to feel comfortable with him was as clear as the rather large nose on the Duke’s patrician face. “What are you going to do about it?” Reno asked as he forked another piece of ham to bring to his plate.
“Be patient. Take my time. Be kind and considerate.”
“She’s pretty.” Jericho spoke up, then laughed when Amelia’s brother came to sit with them. “A sight prettier than old Ace here.”
The gangly young boy took no offense. “I got more important things to worry about than my looks.”
“Like what?” Boone asked. “You planning a fishing trip?” They all knew how much Ace liked to fish.
“Nope. I spotted a mustang near Packsaddle Mountain. After I finish eating, I’m going to ride over and try to round him up.” He looked straight at Reno. “You’re the best bronc rider I know. Will you help me?”
“I wish I could, buddy,” he told Ace. “I’m leaving today. I’ll be gone for a few weeks. When I return, if you haven’t caught him, I’ll be glad to help you.”
Disappointment darkened Ace’s face. “Shucks.”
“I’ll help you, Ace,” Gentry said with a smile.
His offer brought a guffaw of disbelief from Jericho. “This ain’t no job for some dandy.” Jericho pointed his fork at Ace. “I’ll help you catch that pony, son.”
“Now, you listen to me – you ruffian.” Gentry gave Jericho the evil eye. “I will pit my skills against yours any day of the week.”
Jericho threw his biscuit on the table. “You’re on. Today. We’ll settle this thing once and for all.” He elbowed Boone. “You’re in charge, friend. Come up with a contest betwixt me and this English pansy waist. We’ll settle this matter once and for all!”
“Pansy waist? Do you even know what that means?” Gentry sat up straight to glare at his friend with an overly stern expression.
“Well…no – but it sounds right.” Jericho defended his insult. “You being all royal and rich and…snooty!”
“I am not snooty!” Gentry was doing his best to hide a smile. “I’ll have you know I’m not just a member of the aristocracy, I’m also a knight.” He hit the table. “With a sword!”
Reno grew amused at their banter. He knew Jericho was well aware that Gentry was as capable a cowboy as they come. He’d proven himself over and over. What was even more endearing was the fact that those two were closer than brothers – one of royal birth and the other the bastard son of a slave.
“A sword? For real?” Ace’s eyes were big as saucers.
“For real.” Gentry gave him a wink. “I’ll show it to you after all your chores are done for the day.”
“All right!” He beamed at the Englishman. “And you can help me with the mustang…if you want to
.”
“It’ll be a pleasure, young man.”
Reno enjoyed the exchange, especially Gentry’s expression when he noticed Amelia was smiling. For some reason, he bet that smile was worth more to his friend than the crown jewels of Britain.
Taking a last sip of coffee, he rose to his feet. “As much as I hate to leave good company, I’ve got to hit the road.”
“You be careful,” Jericho cautioned him. “There’s a lot of unrest in the area. Domino said he heard in town that the Bailey place got burned out. Two people killed. I don’t know what we’re going to do. Looks like the Cavalry’s going to have to come in and put an end to this uprising.”
Reno felt an uneasiness in the pit of his stomach. “Yea, I worry about leaving the children unprotected.”
“Bring them here.” Ace spoke up. “There’s plenty of room.”
“I second that motion,” Gentry stood. “I’ll set up more beds in the bunkhouse.”
“Well, I’ll talk to them. Saul can be as stubborn as a mule.” He folded his napkin, picked up his dirty dishes, and handed them to a waiting Amelia. “I just wish they could find out who’s behind these raids.”
Boone shrugged. “You don’t think it’s Mangas and his bunch?”
“Ela says no, and I believe her.” Reno shook everyone’s hand. “I’d best hit the trail.”
Gentry pushed aside his hand to give him a manly hug. “I wish you luck on your mission. I know you’re worried about your brother.”
“I am.” Reno shook his hand. “Thank you.”
“Are you sure you won’t take this?” Gentry reached into his pocket and brought out a small sack of gold coins.
“No. I’m good on money. I’ve saved the majority of my share from the ranch profits.”
“I don’t see how. You’ve spent a small fortune on the Stanton kids and Ela Blue.” Gentry’s tone was matter of fact – not judgmental. “Now, you’re setting off on a trip and there’s going to be expenses. I want you to stay in a proper hotel and not camp out under some tree.”
Instead of offending Reno, Gentry’s concern warmed his heart. “I’ll be fine. I promise.”
“All right.” Gentry backed off and gave him a beaming smile. “I wish you safe travels, my friend.”
“And good luck,” Boone added as he helped Fancy clear the table.
As she passed by with the leftovers, she nodded to Reno. “I have supplies for the kids and provisions for you. Everything’s packed in the saddlebags on the porch ready to go.”
“Excellent. Thank you so much.” He gave the pretty woman a kiss on the cheek. “Where’s your husband this morning?” Reno hoped to see King one more time before he hit the road.
“He’s at the barn with Domino. One of the cows is having trouble calving.”
“All right. I’ll see them when I saddle up Traveler.” He lifted a hand in a final farewell to his friends. “Take care, everyone. I’ll see you soon.”
On the way across the yard, he took note of the fruit trees and Fancy’s garden. Reno couldn’t help but think how this land looked when they first came. The wild western wilderness was being tamed by the blood, sweat, and tears of pioneers in search of a better life. He couldn’t help but be proud of the part he’d played in building this ranch. In years to come, their families would share in the bounty they were cultivating now.
As he neared the barn, he could hear King’s voice. “There she is. A little heifer. Good job, Domino!”
Once he darkened the door, Reno could see King working with the newborn spotted calf, helping mother and baby get into position for the little one to suck. “I see you two have been busy.”
Domino was cleaning his hands in a bucket of water. “We have. I’m beginning to think I should be a veterinarian. Bringing a calf into the world beats the hell out of digging shrapnel from a wounded soldier. Are you about to leave?”
“I am.” He gathered Traveler’s tack and saddle. “Domino, I’d appreciate it if you’d check on Ela while I’m gone.”
“Of course.” He agreed, wiping his hands on a dry rag. “Anything in particular I should look for?”
“No. I just worry about her.”
“I’ll give her a visit and the children also,” the doctor assured his friend. “We’ll take turns checking on them. You don’t have to worry.”
His assurance gave Reno peace of mind. “I appreciate it.” Cinching the saddle tight, he picked up the reins to lead his horse from the barn. “I’ll be off as soon as I load up the goods Fancy put together for me.” He approached his captain. “King, thanks for understanding why I need to take the time off from the ranch.”
King put a comforting hand on the younger man’s arm. “This is important. Cole needs you now. I’m just glad you and your brother have reconciled.”
Reno knew the captain was thinking about his own estranged sibling. “None of what happened was Cole’s fault. Our father was the weak one. Money meant more to him than family did.”
“People let us down sometimes.” He followed Reno out of the barn. “Just remember, you have family here. Go on your journey and do what you need to do. When you’re through – we’ll be waiting.”
“Will do, Captain.” After positioning the filled saddlebags, he mounted Traveler and urged the stallion to a gallop. A half day’s ride awaited him. With the sun warm on his skin and the breeze in his face, Reno felt as if nothing could go wrong.
Journey
Journey awoke to the sound of hoofbeats. How was that possible? She sat up in the bed, her heart pounding. After a few moments she realized she’d been dreaming about Reno. Again.
Needing some air, she rose from the bed. After padding to the window, she pushed the curtain back to see the first rays of the morning sunrise. In vain, she tried to remember the details of the dream – but she couldn’t. There was just the lingering sensation of sun on her skin and wind in her hair. He’d been riding that black stallion of his. Traveler. As she gazed out her apartment window at the traffic on the street, she tried to reconcile what she was seeing with the vision in her mind. Why did these dreams seem so real?
“Stop it. Lou’s right, you need to focus on building a future.” So far, she was just existing. Drifting. Yes, she enjoyed her job. She had a handful of friends. A so-so social life. Still…it always seemed like she was waiting for something. Something to happen. Something momentous.
Cock-a-doodle-doo!
Journey jumped. She didn’t often set the alarm on her phone and hearing the silly, raucous racket jarred her nerves. “I’ve got to reset that sound.” Rubbing her eyes, she moved to press end on the app before the rooster crowed again. “All right. Let’s get a move on.”
After brewing a quick cup of coffee, she showered and dressed, then did a quick check to make sure she’d packed everything she needed. The last thing she did was make the bed. When she straightened the pillow, she saw Reno’s photograph. Lifting it up, she placed it on the side table. As she turned away to pick up her duffle, Journey glanced over her shoulder. Seemingly invisible strings tightened, preventing her from moving away. With a huff of resignation, she snatched the frame off the table and stuffed it in her bag. Now, she could hit the road.
The trip from south Austin to Fredericksburg was a scenic one. She loved the hill country, the contrast of evergreens to the limestone cliffs was eye catching. As she drove her gaze would drift over the surrounding landscape. The rocky vistas fueled her imagination. She couldn’t help but wonder how it must’ve been a hundred years ago – how it felt to cross this rugged terrain on horseback or a wagon while facing the inherent danger of outlaws and Indians. Of course, she’d probably given this scenario more thought than others…considering her obsession.
Stopping at a red light just outside of Johnson City, Journey could admit she’d been obsessed with Reno from the first moment she read Saul Stanton’s journal. She could recall sitting on the window seat in her bedroom, enthralled with every word as she learned how the cowboy befrie
nded her family, provided for them, and finally sacrificed his life to save them. As she grew older, the fascination with the hero took on a new facet – hero-worship gradually grew into love. Most would laugh at such a notion, but it was true. And the feeling didn’t lessen over time, it only grew. So far, no flesh and blood man came close to making her feel the things Reno made her feel.
Was it all her imagination? Some would say so.
But Journey knew it was more than that.
As she passed the ranch that LBJ, the 36th President of the United States, once called home, she turned up the heat against the growing chill in the air. By the look of the clouds, the day would be overcast. Noting a rumble in her middle, Journey decided today would be a good day for a pot of soup. Not wanting to delay Myra, she planned a trip into town later for some fresh produce. After she put everything into a crock pot, maybe there’d be time for a walk before settling down to get some work done before bedtime.
The farther she drove west – passing through Stonewall, then into Fredericksburg – the lighter her heart felt. Getting out of town would be good for her. And not just because of Casey. His rejection hurt Journey’s pride a bit, but her heart was definitely in one piece. Resting her foot on the brake, she slowed her speed as she eased down the main street of Fredericksburg, watching for the sign to the road that would lead north toward Enchanted Rock. From here, the distance to her family’s ranch was just a little over seventeen miles.
At the red light, she checked the messages on her phone. Her eyes narrowed to see a text from Casey. Without missing a beat, she hit delete. There was also a couple of orders for oils. This made her smile. She couldn’t wait to sit in the shade beneath the massive oak while she concocted her healing recipes. Just being on the property made her feel grounded. Connected.
Easing off the brake, she accelerated. Her heart rate seemed to follow suit. As each rotation of the wheel carried the car closer to her destination, Journey could feel the excitement within her begin to build. Yes, she was going home. Not to just a familiar house. And not to just the place where she was raised. No, this spot of earth held her family’s roots. The land had been passed down from generation to generation since Saul’s father moved his family to Texas from South Carolina. At the moment, she couldn’t remember the man’s name – it was always Saul she thought of when it came to the distant past. He was the one who’d recorded the family history from the time he’d known Reno, continuing through the years the family spent away from Texas, then resuming when he returned to the old homeplace where her aunt lived today.
