Montana Sky: Amanda's Rancher (Kindle Worlds) (Loving A Rancher Book 1)

by Caroline Clemmons

  At the hotel, Mara signed the register. “We require a room with two beds. My sister is ill and we need a doctor immediately.”

  The clerk signaled two porters. “Rick, you help these women to Room 212. Mack, you run for the doctor.”

  Once up the stairs and inside their room, Mara breathed a sigh of relief. She gave the porter a couple of her dwindling coins and set about getting Amanda changed from her traveling clothes into a nightgown.

  When she peeled off her sister’s skirt, the sight of so much blood on her petticoats horrified her. In spite of her inner reaction, she forced a brave face to reassure the other woman. “The doctor is sure to be here soon. Let’s get you into bed and off your feet.”

  “Mama, why are you bleeding? Did you hurt yourself?”

  Mara scooped up Iris. “Dear, Mama needs to rest. A doctor is coming to see about Mama’s hurt, so you don’t worry, all right?”

  She set the child in the center of the second bed. “Why don’t you and dolly sit here and play? Or, you and dolly could rest so you can play later.”

  Iris began undressing her doll. “Dolly has a hurt too.”

  “You take care of her while I take care of Mama.” She hurried to check on Amanda. They needed more sheets to put under her. Already the bottom of her gown was soaked and blood pooled on the bed.

  Dear Lord, show me what to do to help Amanda. Send your angels to guide us.

  In what seemed hours but must have been only minutes, the doctor arrived. When he saw the state of his patient, he set to work with few questions. From his grave expression, Mara feared the worst.

  Amanda’s voice was faint. “My sister… I need to talk to her.”

  Holding Amanda’s hand, Mara leaned near to hear Amanda say, “Promise me you’ll take care of Iris.”

  Mara sent the doctor an alarmed glance. He shook his head, signaling that he held out no hope for Amanda.

  “You know I adore Iris. She’s my niece and the two of you are my family.”

  “Promise… I suspect you’re running from something… You take my name and go marry my rancher… You and Iris will be safe there… She’ll have a real home with two parents.” Her voice grew fainter as she spoke. She removed her wedding band and pressed it into Mara’s hand.

  What should she say? This was the first time since Mama died that she’d dealt with death. “I promise. Rest now, Amanda, so you can regain your strength.”

  “Please… I want to kiss Iris goodbye.”

  Mara brought the little girl to her mother.

  Amanda pulled her daughter to her and kissed her face. “Iris… Mama has to go be an angel now.”

  She put Iris’ hand into Mara’s. “This is your new Mommy… she’s going to be me from now on… Promise you’ll be good for her … like you have been for me….”

  Mara smoothed a hand across Amanda’s brow. “Amanda, we’ve only just found one another. Please try to hold on.”

  “Trying… but weaker… God sent you to save Iris….”

  Amanda closed her eyes and her head turned slightly to the side.

  The doctor pulled the sheet over her. “I’m sorry, but there was nothing I could do. The placenta pulled away from the womb and caused massive blood loss. I need her name and particulars for the death certificate.”

  Remembering her deathbed promise, she knew she had only one choice. “She is, was Mara O’Sullivan. Her birth date was August 16, 1865 born to Bessie O’Sullivan and James Lawson.”

  The doctor bent to fill out the paper he’d pulled from his bag.

  Holding Iris, Mara sobbed against the child’s shoulder. “Thank you for coming, doctor. Tell me the procedure now to arrange for my sister’s burial.”

  “You and the child move to another room. I’ll send for the undertaker and let the hotel clerk know about the mattress and rug. Don’t think either can be used again, plus the floor beneath has to be cleaned.” The doctor snapped shut his bag and went on his way.

  For the first time, Mara saw the blood dripping from the mattress and pooling on the rug underneath. Amanda’s blood. Her sister’s life poured out and wasted.

  If only she could retreat and curl up on the other bed and escape the sorrow overwhelming her. The heaviness in her chest assured her that her heart was breaking. She pulled her handkerchief from her cuff and dabbed at her tearing eyes.

  She cradled Iris and fought the sorrow turned to anger building inside her. How could Amanda die when they’d just found one another? Why had this happened?

  Still carrying Iris, she slowly made her way downstairs to the reception desk.

  The clerk’s brown eyes held sympathy as he pushed a key across the counter. “You’re in Room 203, ma’am. We’re sorry for your loss. I’ll have the porter move your belongings so there’ll be no need to return to the other room.”

  “Thank you. The mattress… the mattress….” She tried to continue but sobs wracked her body. Shaking her head, she picked up the key and hurried toward the new lodging.

  As she carried Iris along the hallway, two men passed with Amanda on a stretcher. Though a sheet covered the woman, her red hair spilled over the edge.

  Iris wriggled, trying to get down, and cried, “That’s my mama. I want Mama.”

  “We have to go this way, Iris. I’ll explain when we get inside our room.”

  Calming the child required strength as well as reasoning. “Remember what Mama said. She’s gone to be an angel and I’m your new mommy. I love you just as much as she did. We’re a family now and we’ll go to our new home and find your new daddy.”

  Once in the second room, she reassured Iris over and over. By the time the porter had brought their belongings, Iris had calmed down and napped on the bed. Mara counted her money and that her sister had left. She was determined the young woman would have a decent burial and small headstone.

  Chapter Three

  Later, Mara and Iris went downstairs and asked for directions to the undertaker. She followed the desk clerk’s instruction and walked the two blocks, holding Iris’ hand. Poor child had witnessed so much tragedy in her short life.

  The undertaker turned out to be a tall, thin man with brown hair and mustache. “I’m sorry for your loss, Ma’am. Miss O’Sullivan will be laid to rest gently and with dignity. You can view the caskets in the next room.

  The small array of boxes sent her head spinning. She chose next to the least expensive, wishing she had funds for the most elaborate. “How much are the headstones?”

  The undertaker showed her a chart. Again, she chose by cost and could afford one barely large enough for the name and date.

  “When can you be ready?”

  “Graveside burial will be in two days at two in the afternoon if that fits with your schedule. We have to allow time for the stone to be carved.”

  She obtained directions to the cemetery and took Iris back to the hotel. She asked the clerk, “Where can I send a wire?”

  “At the train station ticket office.”

  Thanking him, she said to her new daughter, “I know you’re tired, Dear, but we have one more errand.”

  They sent a wire to Preston Kincaid in care of the Sweetwater Springs ticket office. What would he think at her flimsy excuse that she’d had food poisoning and had to stop at a hotel for a few days? She hoped he wouldn’t be too put off by the delay.

  Doing the sums in her head, she had only a few dollars left to last until she got to Montana Territory.

  “When are we gonna see Mama?”

  “We won’t see her again because she’s an angel in heaven. Remember she told you she was going to be an angel? She’s watching over you now.”

  Iris dragged her feet as they walked toward the hotel. “I wish she would come back and not be dead anymore.”

  “I do too, but she can’t.” How Mara wished her sister had lived. At least she had Iris.

  Her face screwed up into a grimace, Iris said, “I don’t know why everyone gets dead.”

  “Why don
’t we go to our room and talk about all the things we’ll see at our new home?”

  As if distracted, Iris smiled. “I hope there’s a kitty. I’ve always wanted a kitty but Grandpa wouldn’t let me have one.”

  “I’ll bet your new Daddy will.” She sent a prayer heavenward that she spoke the truth.

  ***

  Preston cursed to himself as he reread the wire stationmaster Jack Waite had given him.

  “Bad news, eh?” Jack was the nosiest man Preston had ever met.

  He crumpled the wire and stuffed it into his pocket. “Bride’s been delayed. I wasted the trip here.”

  “Reckon her trunks arrived even though she’s delayed?”

  “If so, will you see anything for her is stored safe?” Preston gave the stationmaster a few coins.

  “Sure will.” From his chair near the stove, Jack rocked back. “Shame she didn’t know to contact you through the mine telegraph.”

  Preston reasoned she couldn’t have known, but he resented losing this time. Fine start to the marriage he’d been working toward for the past few years. No matter, he’d keep the long view in mind.

  “See you, Jack.” Turning on his heel, Preston headed for the parsonage to let Reverend Norton know the ceremony wouldn’t happen today. He wondered if Amanda Eppes was actually coming? He hoped she wasn’t playing a game to extort the fare he’d sent.

  Naw, the matchmaker guaranteed she investigated the brides and grooms. He’d had to supply a letter from Pastor Norton vouching for him. Fleetingly, he wondered who had vouched for Amanda Eppes.

  At the parsonage, he explained to Papa and the minister and his wife that Amanda had fallen ill and had to layover for a few days.

  Papa said, “Durndest thing to happen. Still, I reckon a genteel Southern belle is worth waiting for. You aim to stay here or head on home?”

  He beat at his leg with his hat. “Two trips will be enough wasted days. We sure can’t afford to kill a week waiting. Let’s head home.”

  Mrs. Norton patted his arm. “I’m sorry for the delay, but don’t you worry. I’ll meet your bride and get her settled at the Murphy’s.”

  “Thank you, ma’am. Her husband and parents died a few months back. I reckon she’ll appreciate seeing a friendly woman’s face this far from home.” Still her being sick worried him. If a train trip made her ill, how hardy would she be as a rancher’s wife?

  Mrs. Norton smiled. “Poor dear, some of that train food is awful. I’ll make her welcome. You take care and we’ll see you back in a week.”

  As they walked down the dusty street, the breeze kicked up little puffs of sand.

  Papa said, “You want to stop anywhere while we’re here?”

  Preston thought about a drink at Hardy’s saloon, but he didn’t want to answer a lot of questions about why they were in town in the middle of the week. And he sure didn’t want to see the Cobbs at the mercantile. “Let’s head out, Papa. If you don’t mind, I’m not in the mood for company.”

  “Me, neither. If I’m not going to get to hear a sweet Georgia drawl, I don’t want to be subjected to a bunch of yahoos bragging and telling lies.”

  ***

  Iris pouted. “Mommy, do we have to eat oatmeal again?”

  Mara took a couple of bites of her daughter’s cereal and savored the warm food in her empty stomach. “I’m afraid so, Dear. It’s very nourishing. When we get to your new Daddy’s, we’ll have good things to eat.”

  “I’ll be glad. My old mama didn’t make me eat oatmeal all the time.”

  “I know, and I won’t either once we’re at the ranch. I promise. Remember not to mention your other mama when others can hear, Dear.” The cereal was the cheapest item on the menu.

  “I forgot. How come you don’t have to eat a whole bowl like I do?”

  How could she explain finances without worrying Iris? “I’m already grown and don’t need as much food. You’re a growing girl and need to eat every bite and drink your milk.”

  She couldn’t admit even to the child that they only had enough money for one of them to eat. Truthfully, she was hungry. She hoped her coins held out until they reached Sweetwater Springs.

  After she’d paid the hotel for lodging and food, for the ruined mattress, the rug, and the undertaker and headstone, most of the money was gone. Not for a minute did she regret the casket and headstone for her sister. Her heart still ached from losing her so soon after they’d found one another.

  Iris finished her milk and porridge and they made their way back to their seats. She hoped she didn’t become ill from lack of food. Surely she could last a couple more days.

  At noon, an older woman with a cheerful face stopped at their seats. “I’ve noticed you and your daughter dining each day. What good manners she has.”

  “Thank you. Iris has been very good on the trip.”

  “So difficult for a child on a train, isn’t it. Why don’t you two join me for lunch?” When Mara hesitated, the woman added, “My treat, of course.”

  “If you’re sure, we’d be honored. I’m Amanda Eppes and my daughter is Iris Grace.” Mara rose and took Iris’ hand.

  “I’m Mrs. Waterfield, Artura Waterfield. I’ll be getting off this evening to visit my daughter and her husband and my three grandchildren.”

  Following the other lady, Mara said, “You’re very gracious to invite us to dine with you.”

  “I detest dining alone and I must admit I noticed you and your daughter sharing her food. I think you need a large meal to fortify you for the rest of your trip.”

  Embarrassed, Mara admitted, “We are a little short of funds. I was ill and had to delay our trip a few days at one stop. Between the hotel and expenses, I have very little left to last until Sweetwater Springs.”

  They fell into easy conversation and Mara wondered what it would be like to have the funds to pay for meals for strangers. Then she remembered she’d done the same for Amanda and Iris the first day. She’d felt rich then, but her riches hadn’t lasted.

  After a large meal, hunger pains no longer troubled Mara. Iris was an angel but clapped her hands with delight when their dessert arrived. Mrs. Waterfield chuckled with the pleasure of watching Iris.

  Dear Lord, thank you for sending this earthly angel to help us.

  ***

  Today was her chance, her new beginning. As the train chugged into Sweetwater Springs, she mentally rehearsed her new identity.

  I’m Amanda Eppes, here to marry Preston Kincaid. I’m Amanda. My name is Amanda. I’m a widow and Iris is my daughter.

  The train slowed and jerked to a halt. “Come on, Iris, this is where we find our new home. Hold my hand.”

  Iris tugged at her skirt. “Mommy, where’s my other mama?”

  “She’s an angel, remember? She’s protecting us from heaven.”

  “I miss her.”

  “I do too, sweetheart. But, we have each other and we’ll soon have a new home. Remember not to talk about your other mama unless we’re alone. No one but the two of us is supposed to know you had another mama. Everything will be great, you’ll see.”

  Gazing around the platform, she didn’t see a man resembling the description she’d read. She peered at the town. False-fronted wooden buildings lined the dirt street.

  The mercantile was brick and a more impressive structure. The only two-story business was the faded green saloon with peeling paint. Not far in the distance, she saw the steeple of a white church and also what appeared to be the school. Homes were visible in a variety of shapes and sizes.

  A small woman with blond hair feathered with gray bustled toward her, blue eyes dancing with merriment as she waved. “Yoohoo, Mrs. Eppes? I’m Mary Norton, the pastor’s wife. I told your groom I’d meet you and your daughter. Mr. Kincaid had to go back to his ranch when you were held up, but he’ll be here for the wedding tomorrow.”

  A day of reprieve? “Is there a hotel where my daughter and I can stay?” And hopefully wait until tomorrow for Preston Kincaid to pay the bill
.

  “Lavinia Murphy is expecting you. I’ll go with you and introduce you to her. I hope you’ve recovered from your illness.”

  “Yes, food poisoning from something I ate on the train. I’m fine now.”

  Mrs. Norton gestured to the station. “Mr. Waite, he’s the stationmaster, has seen your trunks are stored until Mr. Kincaid arrives.”

  Holding on to Iris, Amanda carried the large valise containing the few things she’d saved of hers and those belongings her sister had carried. “I have this for tonight. So kind of you to greet us, Mrs. Norton.”

  The pastor’s wife watched Iris and slowed her steps. “When you’re married to a minister, that’s part of the job. Besides, I’ve been eager to meet you. My husband would have come himself, but he thought you’d prefer another woman.”

  “He was correct. I understand Mr. Kincaid’s ranch is a long drive, but I’m happy to meet my almost-neighbors.”

  “And no doubt you needed to stretch your legs.”

  “I confess I’m very pleased to be off the train. The locomotive’s soot and cinders make me appreciate your beautiful spring day even more. Seeing the country was lovely, but Iris and I are ready for firm ground.”

  “I imagine traveling with a child presents problems, although this young lady certainly appears to be a jewel.”

  “Thank you. Iris has been very good, but she’s grown too quiet. Once we’re on the ranch, I hope she’ll run and play.”

  Iris looked up at her. “And get a kitty.”

  Amanda explained, “She wants a kitten so much. I do hope there are cats there. If not, perhaps we can find one here in Sweetwater Springs to take with us.”

  Mrs. Norton laughed. “Oh, I imagine there will be cats on any ranch and probably a dog or two. You’re sure to find a kitty to have fun with, young lady.”

  Iris smiled and skipped beside her.

  Soon they reached a two-story clapboard house.

  “The Murphy home isn’t a boarding house, but they let their spare room when it’s needed. You’ll find they’re pleasant enough people and their home is clean. She keeps hens and the food is good.”

  When they’d been shown to their room, Amanda found the décor pleasing. The dark blue wallpaper was dotted with numerous tiny spring flowers. The bed’s brass headboard gleamed. A dark pine washstand held a pitcher and bowl for washing. A small towel hung from a rail on the end and a mirror hung on the wall. Matching small tables stood on either side of the bed and a lamp sat on one. She washed her face and hands and helped Iris do the same.