COLLEEN: A Sweet Western Historical Romance

by Ashley Merrick

  "I do have faith. It's what keeps me going." She smiled at her two good friends and was so grateful to be with them again. "I can't wait to see what is in store for me."

  Colleen rode into town the following day with Julia and Liam. At dinner the night before when they'd been talking about their plans for the next day, Colleen had noticed that Julia hesitated for a moment before saying she was working the lunch shift at the pub. She guessed that her friend felt guilty leaving her alone to fend for herself all day.

  "Why don't you let me come with you and make myself useful? I'm sure you could use an extra pair of hands and I love to keep busy." The thought of sitting around their house with nothing to do was not very appealing.

  Julia's eyes lit up at that. "Are you sure? We could use the help, but I don't want you to feel like you have to come to work. You're our guest."

  "I'm sure. I want to help."

  "What do you think, Liam?" Julia had asked.

  "We could certainly use the help. Lunches have been getting busier. Why don't we have Colleen act as a hostess?"

  "That's perfect!" Julia went on to explain that they didn't have a dedicated hostess at the pub. Everyone just kept an eye on the front door and whoever was the least busy would greet the guests and then lead them to a table. It would be a help to have someone take that on so they wouldn't have to worry about it.

  When they arrived at the pub, Liam went into the back office while Julia showed Colleen around. She first introduced her to Billy, and explained that he was Liam's right hand and during the day shifts. He usually stayed behind the bar while Julia served the dining room tables.

  "It's a pleasure to meet you," Billy said and held out his hand to Colleen. He looked to be about Liam's age, with sandy, brown hair and kind eyes. She remembered Julia mentioning Billy last night, that he was married with a young child and that he and Liam worked well together.

  She shook it and smiled in return, liking Billy immediately.

  "Liam floats between both areas, helping out wherever we need it," Julia added.

  "It will be nice to have someone hostess," Billy said as Julia led Colleen into the kitchen.

  "Mrs. Johnson, I'd like you to meet one of my best friends. Colleen just moved here from Boston."

  The older woman looked up from the dough she was rolling out, and took a moment to wipe her floury hands on a towel. She was slightly plump and shorter than both of them, at just a bit over five feet.

  "Welcome!" The older woman smiled as Colleen shook her hand.

  "It's so nice to meet you. I've heard wonderful things about your cooking."

  Mrs. Johnson blushed ever so slightly at that, and turned back to her dough.

  "It's nothing. Just doing what I love to do, but that is nice to hear," she admitted.

  "What do we have for specials today?" Julia asked.

  "I made a shepherd's pie for the entree of the day. The soup is a beef stew and sandwich is a grilled cheese with tomato."

  "That sounds so good," Colleen said.

  "You'll see for yourself when we break for our lunch later." Julia explained that once the lunch rush was over, they'd be able to sit for a bit and eat.

  Just as Julia finished showing Colleen around, the front doors opened and their first customers of the day walked in. For the next few hours Colleen stayed busy seating people, helping to clear tables and even occasionally delivering food for Julia and Billy. She kept an eye on the front door so she wouldn't miss any new customers coming in as she carried a soup and sandwich special to the bar. Billy was busy pouring a draft beer at the opposite end of the bar. Colleen glanced around wondering whose lunch she was holding.

  "That might be mine." The man sitting two chairs down flashed a dimpled smile her way.

  "You ordered the special?"

  "I did, indeed." Colleen set the food down in front of him. She'd noticed him when he came in a little earlier. He was very handsome with thick, black hair, blue eyes and a bit of a cocky air about him. No doubt he fancied himself a charmer. The thought irritated her as it made her think of Frank, someone she didn't want to waste another ounce of energy on.

  "Enjoy your lunch," she said and then hurried back to greet two new customers. Twenty minutes later, Mrs. Johnson caught her eye and motioned her to the kitchen.

  "Be a love and run this to the bar, would you? Same fella you delivered the last special to."

  Colleen picked up the plate that held a slice of what looked like delicious apple pie. Her stomach rumbled loudly and Mrs. Johnson chuckled. "I'll save you a piece for later. You've more than earned it."

  Colleen was still smiling as she set the pie down in front of the black-haired charmer, as she thought of him.

  "You have a beautiful smile. It's a pleasure to see it." He grinned in return and tiny laugh lines danced around the corners of his eyes and lips.

  "Thank you," she said stiffly.

  He took a big bite of pie, studying her. "You don't like me much, do you?" He finally asked, surprising her with his awareness.

  "I don't know you," she protested.

  "But you don't like what you've seen so far? I have to confess, I'm not used to that." He smiled again and Colleen laughed.

  "I'm sure you're not," she said as she watched with amazement as with several big bites, he finished his pie in record time.

  "Let's start over then, shall we? I'm Ricky, Ricky Donovan. And you are?"

  "Colleen Shea."

  "I figured as much. It's very nice to meet you Colleen."

  "How did you know who I was?" And then it dawned on her. "Are you related to Liam and the Donovan family?" She didn't think that Julia had mentioned a brother named Ricky.

  "I'm a cousin," he confirmed. "My father's brother is Ethan's dad. Our family isn't quite as large, though. I'm one of four. Two brothers, one sister."

  Colleen relaxed a bit. If Ricky was part of the Donovan family, she probably didn't have to worry about him being another Frank.

  "I didn't realize there were more Donovans in town. I'm meeting the rest of the family this Sunday, after church."

  "Of course you are. They get together every Sunday." He looked thoughtful for a moment, then the mischievous smile crept back. "Maybe I'll stop by, too. That would shock them." He chuckled and then at Colleen's confused expression added, "It's okay. I have an open invitation. I'm long overdue, actually." He paused for a moment to glance at his pocket watch and seemed surprised by the time.

  "I'm afraid duty calls. It was a pleasure to meet you, Colleen. I am sure I'll be seeing you soon." He drew several bills out of his wallet and set them on the bar to cover his tab, and then nodded her way as he left.

  "So, you met Ricky?" Julia said a half-hour later as they settled down in the back room to have a bite to eat. The lunch rush was over and the restaurant was almost completely empty except for a few people at the bar and one table out front, and they had already paid their bill. Billy and Liam said they'd keep an eye on things and insisted that they take a break to eat.

  "I didn't realize that there were more Donovans. Ricky said he's a cousin."

  Julia nodded. "Yes. He doesn't often come around for family gatherings, but we see him at least once, sometimes twice a week in the pub." She paused and looked like she was about to say something, but turned her attention back to her lunch instead. They were both having a bowl of beef stew with a slice of apple pie on the side for dessert.

  "What were you about to say?" Colleen was curious.

  Julia sighed. "Well, I don't want to be a gossip, and I actually really like Ricky. He's been nothing but respectful and friendly with me, but Liam said he's the black sheep of the family."

  "How so?"

  "He's the youngest son. His older two brothers are both married with young children and are farmers, both hard workers. Ricky's different. He's a businessman. Very successful, I might add. "

  "And that's a bad thing?"

  Julia took a bite of pie and then frowned for a moment, thinking.
/>
  "I'm trying to remember exactly what Liam said. It was months ago and I don't recall the specifics, but I think it had something to do with suspicions that he may have possibly crossed a few ethical lines, taken shortcuts to grow his business."

  "What is his business?" Colleen was intrigued.

  "Ricky makes things happen. He's developed connections across the country and basically buys and sells just about everything. He's almost always the lowest bidder. Liam has no idea how he does it."

  "So why does the family consider him the black sheep then? If he's so successful?"

  "I think he makes them nervous. He's not like the rest of the family and they're not sure what to make of him. He's almost too successful. And I don't imagine it will surprise you to learn that he's quite the ladies’ man?"

  "No. He reminded me of Frank, actually, at first."

  "I don't think he's like Frank, but he does like the ladies. He is also a regular at the saloon in town and friendly with the women there, if you know what I mean."

  "Oh. Well, I'm not sure what to say about that." Colleen decided her initial impression of Ricky wasn't too far off base. He may not be as much of a snake as Frank, but he did sound like someone she should probably steer clear of. Best to focus on Paul and David. No one would ever think of either of them as black sheep.

  CHAPTER FIVE

  The rest of the week flew by. Colleen went in with Julia to the pub every morning around eleven and they worked until late afternoon, heading home just after four most days. Julia explained that she used to work through the dinner shift, but as soon as Liam found out she was expecting, he’d put an end to that and immediately hired someone else to work the evening shifts.

  They usually arrived home around five and then Colleen helped Julia check on the animals and then set about preparing dinner and getting ready for the next day. Once all of the household chores were taken care of, they could relax and chat and read a bit. It was wonderful spending time with Julia, but it was also an adjustment. Life in Bozeman was very different than Boston. But the changes so far weren't bad ones, just new.

  Colleen woke Sunday morning feeling a mixture of nervousness and excitement. Today she was going to meet Liam's family and spend time with both Paul and David. As they rode to church, Liam told her more about the rest of his family.

  "My mother is the rock of the family. She loves having us all over on Sundays. It does get a little crazy, though, with everyone wanting to talk at once. We're a lively bunch." He shot her a grin and she smiled in return. After meeting Liam, it wasn't hard to picture a houseful of talkers.

  "Not everyone is as outgoing as Liam," Julia said.

  "That's true," Liam agreed. "David's probably the quietest of all of us. He doesn't miss a thing, though. Sits there taking it all in. He's the smart one. Whenever he wasn't out on the farm working, we'd find him in a corner with a book." From the little she'd seen of David, none of that surprised her.

  "What is Elizabeth like?" Colleen was curious about Liam's only sister.

  "She's like a female Liam," Julia laughed.

  "No wonder I've always liked her so much!" Liam joked. "Elizabeth is a sweet girl, always finds the fun. She's also the youngest of us all, not quite eighteen. My mother used to say that there are so many of us because she had to keep going until she had a girl."

  They were just about at the church and as they pulled into the parking area, Colleen noticed both Paul and David walking in with their parents. They parked and then joined them inside. Both Paul and David said hello and then Julia introduced Colleen to Liam's parents, Naomi and Jed Donovan. Jed politely extended his hand to greet her and then Naomi pulled her in for a quick hug.

  "We're so happy that you're here. I feel like I know you already from hearing both Julia and Emma mention you so often. I'm looking forward to getting to know you better."

  "Thank you. I'm looking forward to it, too, and appreciate the invitation to join you this afternoon."

  "You're welcome every Sunday."

  After the service, they all walked outside and suddenly Paul was at Colleen's side.

  "Are you still willing to ride over to the house with me? I promise to go slowly and point out all my favorite places along the way." He was smiling and the twinkle in his eyes was contagious.

  "Yes, of course."

  "We'll see you there," Julia called as they walked to their buggies.

  "How are you liking Bozeman so far?" Paul asked as they started on their way.

  "It's wonderful. Very different from Boston, but I like it."

  "I imagine that Julia has already shown you Donovan's Pub?"

  "Yes, I've actually been working there all week with her and Liam."

  Paul seemed surprised at that.

  "Really? Have you done restaurant work before?”

  "No, but I learn quickly and I wanted to help, to be useful while I'm staying with them. Especially now that Julia is expecting."

  "I suppose. That does make sense," he agreed.

  "I'm actually really enjoying it. It's something to do. I would be lost all by myself at their farm," she admitted.

  "They don't have farms in Boston?" he teased her.

  "No, they don't, actually. I had never seen one before, though outside the city of course there are plenty. Much smaller, though, I imagine."

  "Well, see now, that seems strange to me. To live where there are no farms." He smiled and they chatted easily the rest of the way to his parents’ home. Here and there, he pointed out spots of interest as they drove out of town. Some of them Julia had also shown her and as they reached the edge of his parents’ farm, he pointed out a large tree that he and David had built a fort in many years ago.

  "We used to go there all the time to plan our next adventure. It was great fun."

  Paul reminded Colleen of Liam. He was fun and easy to be with and very sweet. He would make someone a good husband, she guessed. Did she want it to be her?

  When they arrived at his parents’ house, Paul helped her out of the buggy and led her in to the house where the rest of the family was already gathered. Mrs. Donovan came over when she saw them walking in.

  "Welcome! Come on in. Would you like some tea?"

  Colleen followed her into the kitchen and gratefully accepted a cup of tea.

  "Make yourself comfortable, dear. We'll be sitting down to eat in just a few minutes." Colleen looked around and saw Julia chatting with what must be Liam's sister Elizabeth. She walked over towards them.

  "Oh good, you're here! I've been dying to introduce you to Elizabeth." She turned to the younger girl and made the introductions. "This is Colleen Shea, one of my dearest friends from Boston."

  "It's a pleasure to meet you." Colleen shook the younger girl’s hand and admired her hair. It was a pale, golden shade, the color of sweet corn, and her eyes were a clear blue. She was a very pretty girl. Elizabeth would likely have her pick of men soon.

  "You as well. Julia has spoken of you often. I'm so glad you're here. I've been outnumbered for too long." She laughed and a dimple appeared, giving her a mischievous look.

  "Come to dinner, everyone," Mrs. Donovan called.

  They made their way to a long table.

  "Colleen, I have you here." Mrs. Donovan led her to the seat next to her and Elizabeth sat on the other side of her.

  Once everyone was seated, Mr. Donovan said grace and then they began to pass around platters of sliced roast chicken, potatoes and green beans. There was a basket of bread and tub of butter as well.

  "So, did you go to fancy balls in Boston? I hear that you know how to make beautiful gowns." Elizabeth wore a dreamy expression. Colleen felt bad shattering that illusion.

  "I have made some lovely dresses....for other people. I've never attended one of those balls. None of my friends did."

  "Oh, that's too bad. I bet they are wonderful, those balls. I would love to wear a dress like that someday," she said wistfully.

  "I could help you make a lovely dress i
f you like, but somehow I don't think there are any balls around here."

  "Could you? That would be so wonderful and I could help too, if you show me what to do."

  "Elizabeth, that is too much to ask of Colleen. You've only just met her." Mrs. Donovan interjected.

  "Oh, I don't mind at all," Colleen assured her. "Truth be told, my fingers are itching to sew again. I didn't realize how much I'd miss it."

  "Well, if you're sure." Mrs. Donovan still sounded doubtful. "We don't want to put you to any trouble."

  "It would be my pleasure."

  "We do have an event I could wear the dress to! Next month, just after I turn eighteen, there is a benefit at the new Bozeman hotel. The Bozeman Arts Society is raising funds to expand the library. It’s probably not as fancy as the balls in Boston, but it's formal enough that I could wear a really nice dress."

  "That's true." Mrs. Donovan looked thoughtful for a moment and then went on to explain. "Every year, the Arts Society holds this event. There’s always something they are raising money for. Their last big project was the Opera House, which opened a few years ago. That was quite a success. It might be fun for you and Julia to attend as well, to meet more of the people in town."

  "That does sound like fun." Colleen realized she might have to make herself something nice to wear, too. Nothing she had brought was fancy enough for an event like that. Her fingers tingled as she mentally began designing her dress. She turned to Elizabeth, "What did you have in mind for a style?"

  They chatted dress design through dessert, which was a rich chocolate cake. Once all the plates had been cleared, Colleen made arrangements for Elizabeth to pick out her fabric and give it to her at next Sunday's dinner and then suddenly, David was standing before her.

  "Can I steal you away now? I think I promised to show you around my farm."

  "I'm looking forward to it." Colleen stood and followed David outside to his buggy. He helped her up and they set off across the fields.