The Horseman's Frontier Family

by Karen Kirst

  He brushed off her concern with a lopsided smile. “I can handle a few bruised ribs.” The smile faded. As he lightly curved his free hand over her sore cheek, the pale gray of his eyes deepened to gunmetal. “I didn’t mean to hurt you. You believe me, don’t you?”

  Imprisoning his strong wrist, she held his hand in place. “What happened was an accident, plain and simple.”

  “I should’ve held on to my temper.”

  “You have the right to defend yourself.” The hair covering his tanned forearm tickled her palm. “I’m sorry, Gideon. What my brothers did was inexcusable. I hardly know what to feel.” She sniffled, then accepted the handkerchief he fished out of his pocket. “I’m angry, but I’m also frightened that I’ve pushed them away forever. I told them I no longer view the Thornton family as our enemy.”

  “That didn’t go over very well.”

  “Not at all.”

  He caressed her cheek. “They love you, Evelyn. They’ll come around.”

  “I hope you’re right.”

  His touch scattered her thoughts until only one remained—kissing him again. When he brought his face close, anticipation zipped along her nerve endings. You’re in way over your head, Evelyn. Ahead lies forbidden territory.

  While her opinion of Gideon had changed, her decision to remain free and independent had not. Besides, being with him meant alienating her family forever. She could never give them up for the uncertainty of a relationship.

  When his lips brushed a sweet, heart-melting kiss against her cheek, she experienced a stab of disappointment. Then reality set in. She couldn’t have more, couldn’t wish for more. Not if she wanted her heart to remain intact. Untouched. Unaffected. Unbroken by a man who’d turned out not to be the enemy after all.

  Chapter Seventeen

  “Would Master Walter like a lemon drop?” Polly Fairhaven, proprietress of Fairhaven’s Mercantile, stood behind rainbow-hued jars filled to the brims with assorted candies.

  His small hand gripping Evelyn’s, he glanced up with hopeful eyes. Her smile twisted into a wince as her cheek still smarted. Fishing a penny from her reticule, she handed it to the lady while attempting to keep her face averted. Walt popped the yellow candy in his mouth, a look of pure pleasure brightening his countenance.

  The older proprietress folded her pudgy hands atop the lid and turned her attention to Evelyn. “That’s quite a shiner you have there, young lady.”

  Lightly touching the swollen flesh, she affected an airy demeanor.

  “Yes, it was very clumsy of me.” Hoping her self-conscious laugh would ward off questions, she tugged on Walt’s hand. “Thank you for the assistance.”

  Mrs. Fairhaven opened her mouth to question her further but was sidetracked by another customer needing assistance. Relieved, Evelyn guided her son along the aisle to the back left corner, where the paper goods were displayed. He was out of drawing paper. She would soon need pencils but would need to consult the catalog, as they didn’t carry them in stock.

  Perhaps she should’ve waited a few days for her injury to heal. But Gideon had business in town, and she hadn’t wanted to stay out on the claim alone.

  The bell above the door rang, but she paid it no heed. Moments later an instantly recognizable feminine voice greeted her.

  “Good afternoon, Evelyn.”

  Slipping the paper into her basket, she turned to greet the willowy blonde. “Katrine. How nice to see you again.”

  “I was passing by and saw you through the window.” Blue eyes twinkling with good humor, she waved at Walt. “Hello, sir. I see you are enjoying a piece of candy. I think I would like one, too.”

  Walt’s cheeks colored and he ducked his head.

  “The rare treat makes shopping bearable for him,” Evelyn said wryly.

  Katrine’s elegant, short-nailed fingers smoothed the thick braid sliding over her shoulder. Possessed of a fine figure, she made even the simplest of dresses look stylish. “My brother came to town on business, and I thought I would stop in at the café for a slice of Mrs. Murphy’s ginger cake and some coffee. Will you join me?”

  She hesitated. She was almost done with her shopping, and Gideon had said he might be a while. However, Katrine would surely ask how she’d received this injury. Evelyn wasn’t sure exactly what to tell her. If you didn’t want questions, you should’ve stayed home.

  The desire for female company outweighed her reluctance. Although she didn’t know the Danish lady very well, she sensed she wasn’t one to gossip. And there was an absence of judgment in her eyes.

  “I would love to. First let me pay for these items.” Indicating her basket, she said, “Would you mind if I stopped in the sheriff’s office to tell Gideon where I’m headed? We rode in with him, and I don’t want him to wonder where we’ve gone.”

  “That is fine. I will wait outside.” She bent at the waist. “Would you like to wait with me, Walt? Perhaps we can make up stories about the men riding by.”

  After a moment’s indecision, he released Evelyn and took Katrine’s outstretched hand. As she watched the two cross to the entrance, Evelyn was struck by a longing for the familiar so intense that it seemed to weigh down her spirit. If she missed their dear friends and family, their congregation and memorable town landmarks, how much more must her son? Maybe Drake’s death wasn’t the cause of his silence. Maybe it was the trauma of leaving his old life behind.

  They were isolated here. Hadn’t been in Oklahoma long enough for it to feel even remotely like home. Spending time with Gideon’s family and friends could help alleviate the problem. The thought came unbidden. She liked Katrine and Lars, Elijah and Alice. Winona, too. She had a particular way with children. Evelyn wasn’t as well acquainted with the sheriff, but he struck her as a decent sort. Fair-minded.

  The matching expressions of censure on her brothers’ faces pricked her conscience. After what happened yesterday, they would surely see her friendship with these people as another betrayal.

  Torn, she offered up a silent petition. Lord Jesus, I don’t know what to do. The last thing I want is to alienate my family. On the other hand, my son and I need support. Good friends to replace those we left behind.

  When she’d settled her bill and joined Katrine and Walt outside, the contented expression on her son’s face, the trust shining in his eyes as he listened intently to the young woman, bolstered her resolve. His needs came first. On the off chance Theo or the others were to discover their association, she would simply explain the reasoning behind her decision.

  They made their way slowly down Main Street, bypassing the line of people waiting outside the post office. The jail was located at the end, next to the barbershop.

  Pushing open the heavy door, Evelyn led the way inside. Seated behind the desk, Clint looked up and his intense gaze stalled on her swollen cheek before sliding to Katrine following behind her. Because of his own visible injuries, Gideon surely would have already confided in his brother. She need not fear his questions. Clint lowered his boots to the floor. He stood up, tall and strong and all business. “Afternoon, ladies. What can I do for you?”

  This was the man who’d been spying on her brothers. For a split second, she pondered whether or not the sheriff might possibly be tempted to frame the Chaucer brothers for the trouble that had stricken the town. That would certainly rid the Thorntons of their nemeses.

  Then her gaze encountered Gideon, and she dismissed the idea. The Thorntons had done nothing to retaliate. Surely they would have already if they’d been so inclined. Elijah practically oozed compassion and mercy. Gideon was honest to a fault, and Clint was duty bound to uphold the law.

  “I came to tell Gideon that we’ll be at Mrs. Murphy’s establishment whenever he’s finished here.”

  His expression carefully blank, Gideon tugged at the hem of his pant leg where his
ankle rested on the opposite knee. “I shouldn’t be much longer.” He nodded to Katrine. “You three enjoy yourselves.”

  “Would you like for us to bring something back for you both?” Katrine inquired, her accent curiously thicker than usual. Could it be she was nervous about something?

  A slight smile touched Clint’s mouth, softening the rugged planes of his face. “That’s mighty kind of you to offer, but I think I’ll pass this time. I’m still full from lunch.”

  Gideon also declined. As they were taking their leave, Evelyn caught the brothers exchanging a meaningful glance. Clint gave a barely perceptible nod. What was that about?

  They had emerged into the overcast day and had started to cross the dusty street when Gideon called her name.

  Closing the door behind him, he took a single step forward. “Can I speak to you for a moment?”

  “I, uh—”

  Katrine touched her arm. “I can take Walt over to the café, if you would like.”

  Curiosity burned in her chest. “I’d appreciate that. Thank you.”

  A pretty smile lifted her lips. “You are very welcome.”

  Lifting her skirts so that her hem didn’t sweep the dirt, Evelyn closed the distance between them. The area around his cheekbone was still swollen and red, with a tinge of blue. “What did Clint say about your injuries?”

  One side of his mouth quirked. “He said I don’t look half-bad considering it was three against one. Of course I told him about my brave rescuer.” His eyes sparkled, resembling the most brilliant stars. Gorgeous. “He was impressed.”

  “I don’t think that’s a story that should be circulated.”

  “Don’t worry. Clint’s as tight-lipped as they come.”

  The basket grew heavy in her hand. “What couldn’t you say in front of Katrine?”

  Growing serious, he cast about to make certain no one was close enough to overhear their conversation. “Clint and Lars observed your brothers’ spreads three nights in a row. There was no suspicious activity. No one left the premises, and there were no late-night visitors. On top of that, another crime was committed on the third night.”

  Relief spread through her. “I knew they weren’t responsible. Is Clint convinced of their innocence?”

  “He is.”

  “What happens now?”

  “We move on to the next theory.”

  “Which is?”

  He shook his head. “Let us worry about that. Now, you don’t want to keep your companions waiting, do you?”

  “I can handle whatever it is,” she huffed, put out by his refusal to confide in her.

  “I won’t argue with that,” he surprised her by saying. “However, I feel you’d be safer at this point not knowing.”

  An older couple approached at a rapid pace, proving that a public street was not the place to argue the point. “Fine.”

  When she turned to go, his hand stole over her wrist, encasing her warm flesh in his steel-like strength.

  “Don’t be mad.”

  The pleading tone in his husky voice cooled her irritation. He was merely concerned for her well-being, doing what he thought best. He wasn’t withholding information because he thought her a brainless female. Something Drake would have done. Drake would not have hesitated to tell you that he didn’t think you capable of rational thought.

  She lifted her gaze, allowing warmth to fill it. “I’m not.”

  Satisfied, he dropped his hand, waiting until the couple had passed to speak again.

  “Enjoy your visit with Katrine. I’ll try not to keep you waiting long.”

  “Take your time.”

  With a parting smile, she left him and made her way across the street to the Brave Rock café. Even though it was midafternoon, business was brisk, the one girl Mrs. Murphy had hired to serve her customers looking a bit frazzled. Katrine’s blond hair gleamed, drawing her attention, and she wove her way through the tables to join her and Walt.

  A steaming cup of coffee awaited her.

  “I remembered you said you prefer coffee to tea.” Katrine waved her fingers toward the sturdy ceramic cup.

  Lowering herself into the chair opposite, she thanked her and took a sip of the bracing brew. They each ordered a slice of Mrs. Murphy’s famous ginger cake. For Walt, a cinnamon cookie and large glass of milk.

  Seeing the curiosity and concern in the other woman’s eyes, Evelyn decided to broach the subject. “I suppose you’re wondering what happened to Gideon and me.”

  An ever-so-slight smile lifted her lips. “It was—what is the word—impossible not to notice. However, do not feel as if you have to tell me.” She frowned suddenly, secret shadows passing over her face. “I know what it is like to want to keep certain things to yourself.”

  Fiddling with the silverware, she said, “You will probably hear eventually. Gideon will tell Elijah, who will tell Alice and... I know how these things slip out.” She sighed. “You are aware of the long-standing feud between our families?”

  Katrine nodded.

  “My brothers came to visit me and were not happy to see Gideon and me talking. Actually, Gideon has been teaching me to shoot a bow and arrow.”

  At this the blonde’s brows rose. “That is generous of him.”

  Evelyn felt heat suffuse her face. Thankful for the interruption the arrival of their desserts created, she waited until the waitress had gone before continuing.

  “Tempers flared. My brothers provoked Gideon. He was defending himself when I got caught in the fray.”

  Katrine cocked her head to one side. “Because you were trying to prevent the fight? Who were you trying to protect—your brothers or Gideon?”

  Evelyn nearly spewed her coffee. She managed to gulp it down instead.

  “I am sorry. That was—” she tapped her temple, searching for the right word “—impertinent of me.”

  “No, it’s a fair question. It’s just not one I’ve considered, so I’m not prepared to answer.”

  “Let us speak of other things.” She smiled. “Otherwise, you may never agree to have dessert with me again.”

  Katrine entertained her with stories of her and Lars’s journey to America many years prior. She was somewhat vague concerning the particulars of their first few months, but that was understandable. Who wanted to dwell on their hardships, much less divulge them to a new friend? Hadn’t they had enough of that today, anyway?

  As she savored another bite of the moist confection, she paused on the word. Friend. Yes, she had a feeling Katrine Brinkerhoff would make a very fine friend. She thanked God for bringing this godly woman into her life.

  They had just finished their desserts when Katrine checked the watch attached to her bodice. Dabbing her mouth with the pristine white napkin, she dug in her reticule. “Oh, my, I am supposed to meet Lars in five minutes. I was enjoying myself so much I completely lost track of the time.” Placing coins on the table, she wore an expression of apology. “I am sorry to abandon you, Evelyn, but I do not want my brother to worry. He says there are unsavory characters in Brave Rock and that I must be careful.”

  Evelyn swallowed the last of her coffee. “It’s okay. We’re finished here, aren’t we, sweetheart?” she asked her son.

  Crumbs dotted Walt’s mouth. His plate was empty.

  “Drink the rest of your milk.” To Katrine she said, “I’m glad we ran into you today. It’s been a pleasant visit.”

  She smiled. “Soon you and Gideon must come and have supper with us. Our cabin isn’t too far from town.”

  “I would like that very much.”

  After she’d gone, Evelyn was left with a hopeful feeling. Maybe, just maybe, she and her son could build a life here.

  * * *

  Emerging from the café, Evelyn smacked into a broad chest
covered in military blue.

  “Oh!” She stumbled back. “I apologize. I didn’t see you.”

  A hand came up to grip her elbow, steadying her. “Well, if it isn’t the lovely widow. Mrs. Montgomery.” Private Ryder Strafford’s smile had a predatory bent as he doffed his hat. “No need to apologize. You can run into me any day.”

  Shrugging away from his touch, she edged backward. Something about the man didn’t sit right. She glanced at his companion, the one with the dirty-blond hair and bushy mustache. Private McGraw, she believed. The absence of all feeling in that man’s eyes made him even more menacing than Strafford. Following his line of sight, she swallowed a gasp. His rapt attention was centered on Katrine’s retreating form.

  “May I buy you a cup of coffee?” Strafford’s question distracted Evelyn. His blue eyes would’ve been beautiful were it not for the vulturine gleam. This was not a man who put a woman’s wants and needs above his own. He was all about seeking his own pleasure.

  She tugged Walt closer. How was it that she could feel threatened standing in the midst of town in broad daylight? She sensed these were not honorable soldiers. “I’m afraid I must decline. I’m late meeting someone.”

  A frown of displeasure pulled his brows together. Bending closer, he towered over her. “Can’t they wait? I’m most eager to spend time with you.”

  Before she could reply, another voice sounded. “No, I can’t wait.”

  Gideon. Sagging with relief, she turned her head to see him bearing down on them like a ravenous wolf homed in on his prey. His glacial eyes were narrowed to slits; his glare alone had the private straightening and stepping away.

  * * *

  Gideon ordered himself to calm down. Evelyn wasn’t in immediate danger. That joke of a soldier was merely being too forward. But the sight that had greeted him when he’d come out of Clint’s office had triggered at first jolting fear, then anger hotter than a poker left too long in the blaze.

  Another soldier approached the group, openly curious. Gideon had seen him about town but did not know his name.