Reid rode beside the sheriff feeling as if he was a part of something good. It had been years since Reid had felt that way. He intended to make it a habit. He hoped Bridgette talked to the mail-order bride. He felt bad for leaving and abandoning her. Once he did take a wife, he’d never leave her.
***
Evalyn finished her work at the store. She’d enjoyed the day and working with Edna and Earl. They were a delightful couple and by the end of the day they were pleased with what she’d done.
She stayed late and finished up the last of the dusting. The shelves had been in disarray and dust, but now, they were largely in order and clean. Evalyn was proud of the work she’d done, but more than ready to go to the hotel and get some dinner.
After saying goodbye and agreeing to come in tomorrow, Evalyn stepped outside and thanked Bridgette for encouraging her to buy the new boots. They were warm and tall enough to keep the snow from her feet.
The sun had dipped behind the hills and was making a spectacular splash of purples and pinks, but the shadows were long, and darkness was falling over the town. Not to mention the cold. Evalyn buttoned her coat tight and put on her gloves.
Besides being cold, she didn’t like the idea of walking in the dark with all the talk of wolves. Throughout the day, she’d heard howls from the hills. A shiver ran down her spine. She chided herself. Silly woman. Evalyn rubbed her arms and looked about the street.
There were no wagons or riders about. Nothing and no one, and that didn’t make her very confident to cross the street. She could see the hotel from where she stood, and it wasn’t that far away.
Yet, thoughts of ravenous wolves prowling about scared her. She took a step into the street and looked about. The farther she got from the store, the more frightened she became. She was in the middle of the street when she heard a low howl somewhere up the street where it ended in a field.
She tried not to panic and walked faster. She’d run but the boots were a little too large, and she needed to tighten them. She’d meant to do it before leaving the store, but the Hollanders had been anxious to lock the door.
Another howl sounded closer. This one was low almost a growl.
Evalyn ran. No stores were open. She still had another block to go before she reached the front of the hotel and safety.
A growl stopped her. The beast was in front of her. Another came from the field. Hunched down, they stalked her.
Evalyn froze. She had nothing to fight with, but she could scream. “Help!”
Another wolf came from behind her.
She closed her eyes and prayed.
A rifle blast made her jump.
She opened her eyes to see a man galloping toward her. His rifle aimed, he fired again. The wolf in front of her yipped and fell.
Slowing his horse, he rode between her and the wolves. He fired three times, set the rifle over the saddle horn, reached for her, grabbed her arm, and pulled her up beside him. He took the rifle and fired again.
Two more men came riding and firing their rifles and chased the wolves out of town.
He looked at her. “Are you all right?”
Trembling, she gazed into his blue eyes. It was the man from the hotel. The one with the bloody jacket. She nodded. “I think so. I wouldn’t have been if you hadn’t come.” Overwhelmed by what could have been, she began crying.
He wrapped an arm around her, holding her close to his chest. “You’re safe now.”
His voice was low and comforting. His heart beat strong and steady. Safe. She began to relax and was hardly aware that he was taking her to the hotel. He stopped the horse. “I’m going to let you down, and then I’ll be right behind you to walk you inside.”
She nodded. And let him lower her to the ground. She looked around. Afraid she’d see snarling teeth filled mouths. But there were none. Then he was beside her. He tied the horse and walked her into the hotel.
Evalyn collapsed into his arms.
He took her to the fireplace and set her on the couch and held her. “You’re all right, now.” He kept telling her until she finally stopped trembling.
After a few more minutes, she looked into his face and his kind eyes. “Thank you.” It was all she could say without crying.
“I’m just glad I got there in time. I was on my way to the livery when I heard you scream. We were chasing down the wolves earlier. I guess they came to take revenge.”
Evalyn shuddered. “I’m sorry. I was so frightened.”
He held her close. “Would you like some coffee or tea to warm up?”
She nodded. “That sounds wonderful. Some tea would be great.”
“Can you walk into the dining room or do you need to rest a little bit more?”
“I may need a few more minutes. I’m afraid my knees are still shaking.” She shook. “I’m sorry.”
“Nonsense. Anyone would be frightened after what you went through. I’ll wait. When you feel comfortable enough, we’ll go inside.” He waved the clerk to him. “Can you get someone to take my horse to the livery?”
The clerk nodded to a man by the door. As the man started for the door, her rescuer stopped him and told him to watch for wolves and to take the rifle and bring it back with him. “I doubt if the wolves will be around now. The sheriff and deputy took off after them.”
The man rubbed her arms. “Are you feeling good enough to get up yet?”
She nodded. “Yes, I think so. I’ll get something to eat, too. I’m hungry.”
He grinned. “That’s a good sign. I’ll buy you dinner.”
“You don’t have to. I have money.”
“So, do I. I’m buying. Have whatever you want.” He stood and then held his hand out to her. “By the way, I’m Reid Cahill.”
She tried to hide her shock as she took his hand. So, this was the man Bridgette had chosen for her. “Evalyn Ladd. I’m am so very pleased to meet you.”
Reid escorted her inside the dining room and chose a table near the fireplace. The room was full of customers, and it seemed most of the town was there. Two men entered after them and came to the table.
“You all right little lady?” The sheriff looked at her with concern.
She nodded. “Yes, fine. Reid saved me.” She choked up. Unable to go on.
“We’ll post guards from now on.” The sheriff nodded at his deputy. “We better start tonight.”
The deputy nodded but didn’t look very happy. “Nothing like a cold night to start guard duty. But I agree. I can’t believe the pack came into town tonight.”
The sheriff turned to Reid. “I could use you after you’re done eating. I figure we can station two men to watch the town. Fire a shot if you see the wolves.”
Reid nodded. “I’ll eat dinner and see the lady to her room if you don’t mind.”
The sheriff nodded a slight grin on his face. “You do that.”
The men left and soon the waiter brought her hot tea.
Evalyn sipped the warmth and felt it calm her still racing heart. Although, now, she wasn’t sure if the fast beats were from the wolves or the man sitting in front of her. She liked him. There was something comforting about him, and he seemed so sincere about taking care of her.
She’d forgotten about Greg Adler when she saw him enter the dining room. Evalyn looked away and threw her attention on Reid. Not that she knew Greg or Reid, but she felt safer with her rescuer.
Greg didn’t take the hint and walked to her table. “Did you forget we had an engagement planned?”
Reid stood. “Evalyn was attacked by wolves. She was shaken. Maybe you can see her tomorrow.”
Evalyn was surprised to see him stand up for her. She’d said nothing to him about Greg, yet, he seemed to instinctively understand she didn’t want any company.
Greg rubbed the back of Evalyn’s shoulder. “I think she can talk for herself. Evalyn? Is that true? You don’t want company tonight?”
She nodded and then looked at Greg. “I’m rather shaken. I needed some tea and din
ner, and then I’m going to my room. Perhaps tomorrow.”
“Perhaps?” Greg nodded, pursing his lips in disappointment. “All right. I’ll stop by tomorrow. About this time like we’d planned for tonight.” He tipped his hat, turned, and left them. He didn’t even stay in the dining room for dinner but left the hotel.
Reid set his coffee down. “I’m sorry if I interfered—”
“No, please. You read the situation perfectly. I didn’t want to see him. I feel safe with you. I hope that doesn’t embarrass you or put you in an awkward position. I just didn’t have any strength to deal with him. Thank you for rescuing me, again.”
He stared at her with a questioning look. “Any time, Evalyn. It’s my pleasure. About time I turned into a chivalrous knight. I’ve played the rogue far too long.”
She smiled. “I suppose when I saw you the other night that was wolf blood on your jacket.”
He nodded. “As a matter of fact, it was. On my way back to town they attacked me and my horse. Buck took a couple of gashes in his legs so he’s healing. I’ve never seen wolves so brash as to come into town.”
“I’ve never been so frightened.”
“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have been talking about them.”
“No, it’s fine. I’m over the shock of the ordeal. Thanks to you.”
The waiter came and brought them two bowls of hot stew. “On the house. It’s all over town how you saved her from the wolves.”
Reid thanked him. “Smells delicious. I’d fight off wolves any day for a dinner this good.”
Evalyn laughed. “I think you’re right. It is wonderful. What do you do, Reid? When you’re not fighting wolves and rescuing women?”
He laughed. “I’m planning on starting a business. Making hats like mine and putting leather bands around them. I think I can have a good business.”
She examined the hat. “This is fine workmanship. Did you make it?”
“I helped. But I did put the leather band around it. I’ve had several people ask me to make one for them.”
“I just started working at the General Store and they don’t have anything like this. I am sure you could have a fine business.” She smiled at him and returned the hat to him.
“You’re working at the store?”
“Yes, just started today. I had no idea I would have such a harrowing experience trying to get to the hotel. Tomorrow, I’ll leave well before the sun goes down and while people are still on the street.”
“Good idea. Although I think the sheriff will have guards watching the town. In fact, let me know what time you’ll be leaving the store, and I’ll escort you back to the hotel.”
Evalyn sipped her tea and set the cup down. “I plan to leave at four. That will give me time to get a lot done and get to the hotel before the wolves come out.”
“I’ll be there to walk you back to the hotel.” He smiled at her. “I’m staying here for the moment. So, I can walk you to work in the morning as well.”
“Wonderful. I’ll take you up on that.” She felt relaxed and comfortable in Reid’s presence. It was almost as if she’d known him all her life.
Reid finished his stew. “How about some dessert. I know they make some of the best pie I’ve ever eaten.”
“That sounds so tempting.”
“Cherry?”
“All right. I hate for this night to end. Thank you for dinner.”
He laughed. “Even if I didn’t have to pay for it. Maybe you’ll let me buy you breakfast?”
“I might.” Evalyn grinned. She couldn’t believe she was having such a good time with Reid. He wasn’t exactly what she had pictured on the way out to Shirleyville. In fact, she’d thought Greg was more what she wanted.
But with Reid, she felt at home. Maybe it was because he’d rescued her, but whatever the reason, she was enjoying herself. Soon the pie came, and she indulged in the treat, relishing each bite.
Finished, she put her napkin on the table. “I really must be going. Tomorrow is another day, and I promised the Hollanders I’d be in by ten.”
Reid stood and helped her from her chair. “Thanks for having dinner with me.” He smiled. “And breakfast tomorrow. I’ll wait for you in the foyer.”
She adjusted her coat and picked up her reticule. “Thank you. I am sure I’ll have nightmares of the events of tonight, but then again, I may not. You took such good care of me and made me feel so at ease and secure. Thank you, Reid. You made what started as a terrifying night enjoyable.”
He walked beside her, and then let her go up the stairs first staying behind as protection in case she should stumble. Reid walked her to her door. “Thank you for an enjoyable night, Evalyn.”
She turned before opening the door and looked at him. She was aware that her heart was racing and there were no wolves around now. She didn’t want him to go, but she couldn’t ask him into her room. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
He opened the door for her.
After she entered her room, she turned to him again. “Thank you for saving me, and for dinner. For it all.” She knew she wasn’t making sense and she’d just met him.
Reid nodded, stepped back, and closed her door.
Evalyn went to the window and looked at the big mountain. Except for the white snow on its peak, it was barely visible in the dark night. For the first time since arriving in Shirleyville, Evalyn felt as if she belonged here.
Reid had done more than save her from the wolves. He’d awakened her heart. She no longer felt like a stranger or like hiding. And she had to admit, she looked forward to seeing him in the morning.
Chapter 11
Reid was up early. He’d made a list the night before of things he’d need to make the hats. Felt, wood blocks, leather, tubs to put hot water in to dunk the felt. He’d have to see what the store had and how much they sold their hats for to see if it would be worthwhile.
He could also make his own felt. One recipe he’d found from an old trapper had used beaver and rabbit fur. Although a lot of hat makers used wool, too. Reid wished he’d paid more attention to the old man. But he was confident that he could figure it out.
Many of the men wore the bowler style of hat, but he liked the look with the wider brims. He was ready to get busy. Where he could work was a problem. Especially with the cold weather, he’d have to find a place with a wood-burning stove.
Reid would ask Bridgette or her husband. He didn’t need a lot of space. Excited to get his business underway, he dressed and went downstairs to wait for Evalyn. He didn’t have to wait long, and she walked toward him, looking as lovely as ever.
He escorted her to the dining room. “You look real nice.”
“Thank you.” She blushed.
After finding a table near the window, he pulled a chair out for her. “I hope it’s not too cold, but I knew you’d like to see the snow.”
“Yes, thank you. It is beautiful.”
They ordered breakfast and coffee.
Reid looked at her. “After I walk you to the store, I’ll look around for a building for my business. I don’t need a large one, but I would need something that I could live in, either in the back or above. I plan to talk to Sterling and see if he has any suggestions.”
Eva nodded. “I hope you find what you need. I heard Francesca and Pierre are looking for a larger building. You could ask about their shop. It’s small but would probably be large enough for what you need.”
“I’ll look into it.”
“And Hollander’s General Store does sell hats. Before you leave, you might want to see what they sell them for.”
“I have ideas for different styles. I can make my own felt for a while and cut down costs.” He picked up his coffee cup and drank it in two gulps.
Evalyn hurriedly finished her eggs. “I can see you’re in a hurry. I’m ready to go.”
Reid nodded. “I’m anxious to get my new life started.” He looked at her. She could be a part of his new life. He almost asked her but decided to wait unti
l he had his business and a place to stay.
He led her to the front door. “The sun is out, so it’s going to be bright outside.”
She nodded, but when he opened the doors, she shielded her eyes. “Oh, my. I wasn’t prepared.”
Reid took off his hat and held it to shade her face. “That ought to help a little.” They stepped into the street and walked up the block and then toward the store. “I’ll come by at four to walk you back to the hotel, or anywhere else you might want to go.”
“Thank you. You don’t think the wolves are still around, do you?”
“Hard to tell. If the sheriff goes out again, I’ll help him, but we didn’t hear any more out of them last night.” Reid would do anything to prevent harm coming to Evalyn or anyone else in the town. Hard to believe he’d gone from a never-care cowboy to a man who wanted to be a responsible citizen.
“I enjoyed our breakfast.” Evalyn turned to him. “I know you were the man that Bridgette chose for me. I’m the mail-order bride she sent for.” She blushed. Why did she say that? By the look on his face, she’d caused him embarrassment.
Reid stopped and faced her. “I’m sorry. I was wrong to run out on you. But I want to make something of myself so that I have something to give you. If you’ll wait until I can get the business started, we can see if we—”
“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said that. Forgive me.” She wanted to tell him how much she liked him, was drawn to him, and how he made her feel at home. Instead, she didn’t. She hid in the shadows.
Reid felt the life in him dim. He’d thought everything was coming together. Then he looked in her eyes. She was perfect for him. Kind and temperate, just the qualities he needed to help keep him on the straight path. “I’ll have to trust that if we’re meant to be together, we’ll both know it and can wait.”
Evalyn’s breath caught. “I like that. I believe you’re right, too.” She looked toward the store. “I better get to work.”
He walked her across the street and into the store. “I’ll be by at four.”
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