Love Finds You in Silver City, Idaho

by Janelle Mowery

  She returned his look with one brow raised. “How on earth will you manage to get anything done with all the single women vying for your attention?”

  Nearly choking on his surprise, Nate burst into laughter. Her accusation was the last thing he expected to hear. Something that should have been flattering made him shudder with the hope Rebekah was completely wrong. He didn’t have the time or interest in courting any women right now. Catching a blackmailer demanded his total concentration.

  “You’ve let your imagination run completely wild, I’m afraid. And you wonder why men call women silly.”

  Her mouth dropped open and something like a squeak emerged. “I can’t believe you said that.”

  She tried to tug her hand away from his elbow, but he held it there, not wanting her to leave his side. “What if I told you I didn’t mean it?”

  “I wouldn’t believe you.” She gave a playful toss of her head. “But I’ll take into consideration the fact that you don’t know women well enough to know how clever we really are.”

  He laughed again. “Since I’ve known you, I’ve been learning fast.”

  “Well, at least that’s some—”

  She not only stopped midsentence but midstep, her grip on his arm tightening. He followed the direction she was looking and saw the door of the store standing open. Dropping the reins to his horse, he yanked his pistol from the holster.

  “Stay here.”

  Without waiting to make sure she complied, Nate rushed across the street toward the store.

  Chapter Thirty

  Though Rebekah’s ears were ringing from her heart pounding so hard, she heard Nate’s command. She managed to obey until he made it to the middle of the street, then her feet, of their own will, moved to follow.

  Through a fog, she saw Nate stop at the store front, his back pressed against the wall, his gun at the ready. He swung his head around just enough to see inside, then pushed the door wide and raced in.

  A yell and a scream pierced the air.

  Rebekah’s air froze in her lungs. A part of her wanted to stay outside until Nate told her all was clear. The strongest part ordered her inside. She ran up the steps, crossed the boardwalk, and stopped at the threshold, waiting for her eyes to adjust to the dim interior. Her mother stood behind the counter with one hand over her heart and the other holding Andrew against her.

  Nate holstered his pistol. “I’m so sorry, Mrs. Weaver. I didn’t think you’d be here today.” He motioned toward the door. “When I saw that standing open, I thought someone was in here stealing or—causing some kind of trouble.”

  “It’s all right. You just startled me.”

  Andrew squirmed out of her embrace, then brushed at his shirt. “I’m all right. I wasn’t scared or nothing.”

  Breaking out of her shocked stupor, Rebekah scooted across the room. “What are you doing here, Mama? You two are supposed to be at home.” Where it’s safe, she added silently.

  Mama reached across the counter and grasped her hand. “I know, honey, but we have a business to run if we want to keep eating. Not only that, but after spending the morning on my knees,” she said, and looked directly into Rebekah’s eyes, “following the example of my daughter, I decided it was time to trust the Lord to take care of me and my family.” She came around the counter and stood in front of Rebekah. “My dear, you’ve been so strong, so faithful. The very person I should have been.” She caressed Rebekah’s face before pulling her into a hug. “I’m so proud of you.”

  Tears formed. “I’m only following the example you and Daddy have shown and taught.” She pulled out of the embrace. “But you should have stayed home.”

  Mama’s tinkling laugh filled the room. “Probably. I know your father will scold me worse than you have.”

  Andrew joined them, all but pushing between them. “Why will Daddy scold you, Mama? Did you do something wrong?”

  Rebekah had forgotten about Andrew listening. Mama must have done the same. Dismay flashed across her mom’s face before she bent to answer him, putting her hands on his shoulders.

  “I didn’t really do anything wrong, son. I suppose I should have discussed it with your father first. But I think he’ll understand when I explain my thoughts and feelings.” She moved one hand to cup his chin. “Understand?”

  He nodded, his expression serious. Then he moved to Nate’s side. “Nate and me will keep you safe, won’t we?”

  All these weeks, Andrew hadn’t said a word about what was happening in town, yet he knew. What all he knew, Rebekah had no idea, but if he had questions, they were best answered by them.

  She knelt on one knee in front of her little brother. “Is there anything you want to ask us, Andrew?” She kept the question simple, unwilling to divulge the extent of the danger if he wasn’t aware.

  A tiny frown creased his brows. “Is Daddy gonna be all right?”

  Nate knelt next to her and took one of Andrew’s hands in his. “Your father is strong and smart. He’ll be just fine.”

  Rebekah figured hearing those comments from a man was just what Andrew needed. His confidence returned with a vengeance. “I’m strong and smart too. I’ll help Daddy.”

  Nate ruffled the boy’s hair as he stood. “I know you will.” He turned to Rebekah. “If you two feel, uh”—he glanced down at Andrew—“comfortable here, I’m going to head out, check on a few things.”

  Andrew jutted his chin. “We’re fine.”

  “We’ll be fine,” Rebekah said at the same time as her mother.

  Nate nodded. “If I see Perry, I’ll let him know where you are.” He tipped his hat and left.

  Mama winked at Rebekah. “He’s a good man.”

  Her heart skipped a beat before hammering out. “I think so.”

  “Who? Nate?” Andrew made the motion of casting his line out and pulling it back in with a jerk. “He’s not that good. I caught more fish than him.”

  Exchanging a look with Mama, Rebekah moved around the counter and grabbed a rag from the back room. “Well, since we’re here, we might as well get something done.”

  She went to work wiping down the shelves, cans, and jars, all the while feeling her mother’s eyes watching her every move. Mama had to know how she felt about Nate. No doubt she and Mama would have a talk before long. She glanced back at her mother. Maybe it was time. And maybe her mother could teach her how to deal with the bitterness of inevitable loss.

  How would she get over the heartbreak of losing the man she loved? Rebekah returned her gaze to the task at hand, rubbing at a spot on the counter through a blur of tears.

  After retrieving his horse, Nate’s first stop was at the livery to make sure Thomas had arrived to keep his word and watch over the place. The wide doors were still latched, so Nate moved around to the side door, which opened easily. Thomas sat on a bench petting the crosseyed cat nestled on his lap. His rifle rested against the post next to him. He stared at Nate without saying a word.

  Deciding not to enter any farther, Nate leaned against the doorframe. “Just thought I’d check to see if you needed anything.”

  Thomas took his time answering, never even blinking. “I’m fine.”

  Not knowing what else to say, Nate nodded. “All right. I’ll try to check in again later.” He started backing out, closing the door at the same time.

  “Nate?”

  He pushed the door back open. “Yes?”

  Thomas opened his mouth but said nothing. Finally, he gave a slight shake of his head. “Thanks for stopping by.”

  Slightly confused, Nate inclined his head. “Sure thing.”

  For the second time today he questioned his suspicion of Thomas and decided to walk so he’d have time to think. He continued down the street, cutting through an alley, on his way to see how Henry was faring. With a little luck, some prayer, and lots of pleading, he might be able to persuade the man to stay in Silver.

  Though a bit less boisterous than usual—the people seemed much more wary as they glanc
ed around—the town still bustled. Many of them waved or shouted a greeting, making him feel welcome for the first time since he’d arrived in Silver.

  Funny how two men could change the opinion of an entire town. Stranger still was the fact that in just under a month he’d taken to shortening the town’s name like the long-time residents always did. He nearly stumbled when he came to realize one thing—when did he start thinking of Silver as home?

  The interior of Henry’s tobacco shop looked dark. Nate tied his horse to the post, then tried the knob and found the door unlocked. He pushed through and glanced around. Except that Henry wasn’t sitting in his chair on the boardwalk or puffing on one of his cigars while perched behind the counter, all looked normal.

  “Henry?”

  A loud thump echoed from the back room. Nate headed that way, but before he could get there, Henry appeared in the doorway.

  “Tell me you’re here to buy tobacco. I’m beginning to think everyone in this town has quit smoking.”

  Nate’s concern grew. If Henry didn’t sell anything, he’d pack up and leave, and there wouldn’t be a thing Nate could say to stop him. “You haven’t had any customers?”

  Henry wagged his gray head. “Not a soul. Might as well close up for the day again.”

  The disheartened tone increased Nate’s worry, yet he had no idea how to help. He couldn’t force men to come in and spend their money. “Don’t give up yet. It’s still early. They’re probably just getting their pipes going good.”

  Henry’s face finally lightened. “You’re a good man, Nate.” He closed one eye. “I don’t suppose I could talk you into learning to smoke.”

  Laughing, Nate shook his head. “Tried it once and nearly choked to death.”

  “That’s what I figured, but you can’t blame a man for trying.” Henry chuckled and clapped him on the back. “You don’t need to hang around and hold my hand, son. You’ve done plenty by caring enough to stop by and check on an old man.” He pushed him toward the door. “I know you’ve got more to do than waste your time around here, young Nate. Go on and win the heart of that pretty Weaver girl. You two would be lucky to have each other.”

  Mouth wide open, Nate stood mute while Henry closed the door in his face. The echo of the elderly man’s chuckle hung in the air.

  With nothing more to do than get back to work finding the blackmailer, Nate grabbed the reins of his horse and headed toward the sheriff’s office. He intended to trail the man around, hopefully without being seen.

  His horse gave a snort and shake of the head, making Nate feel sorry for him. The poor thing hadn’t had a good run since he’d arrived in town. He’d have to take care of that soon. He reached and patted the horse’s neck. “Just a little longer, Rusty. We’ll get to have a run soon.”

  Nate’s thoughts didn’t linger there long. Henry’s comment about Rebekah wouldn’t shake loose from his mind. Why would he think there was anything between him and Rebekah? What did Henry see that—

  This time Nate did stumble to a stop. He spun around toward the tobacco shop, his thoughts tumbling over themselves, all finally landing on one probable idea. Henry was the man who wrote the notes to Cora and Mrs. Phipps, informing each that someone was interested in them. Except Henry had completely missed the mark when it came to him and Rebekah. He enjoyed her company, but that was all. She was brave and funny and would make some man a fine wife. But playing the role of a husband hadn’t even crossed his mind. He wasn’t ready for that kind of commitment. Maybe Rebekah wasn’t either.

  A grin spread slowly across Nate’s face. All the hours Henry sat in front of his store allowed him to observe what no one else saw. The insightful old gentleman, though alone, still wanted to make sure others had a chance at loving someone. Someday he’d have to ask Henry what had happened to his wife. In the meantime, he had a job to finish.

  Trying to get focused, Nate climbed onto the saddle and nudged Rusty toward the sheriff’s office. He doubted the sheriff would be there this late in the morning, but Nate had to start somewhere. Since the lawman didn’t seem to enjoy doing his job, there was a chance he might be sitting in his chair with his feet propped on the desk. If not, Nate would have quite a task ahead of himself trying to find him. His gut told him the sheriff was involved in the blackmailing scheme. The best places to keep an eye on him would be where the last notes had shown up—at Henry’s and the Weavers’.

  As he passed the saloon, Nate’s mind wandered back to the day he’d arrived in town and helped the sheriff arrest the two drunken men. Something about the whole event didn’t sit right. First, the sheriff didn’t try hard to stop the boys from continuing their mischief, and second, he didn’t keep them in jail long. If he remembered right, the sheriff claimed he had let them out that same night because their fines had been paid. Was that something the sheriff said to keep from raising suspicion, or did someone really come up with the money? If the second, who paid the fines?

  Still a distance from the sheriff’s office, Nate reined Rusty to a stop, trying to see if the lawman’s horse was tied out front. A man striding along the boardwalk across the street caught his attention. The worn and floppy hat looked familiar. Just before the man reached the alley, Nate caught sight of his scruffy beard. He couldn’t be sure, but the man certainly looked a lot like the one who’d shot at him and Rebekah the first time they’d met the Loomis family. There was only one way to find out.

  “Hey! You there!”

  At his shout, the man looked his direction. The next second he hefted his rifle and took a shot at Nate before ducking into the alley.

  Chapter Thirty-one

  Nate launched from the saddle and used his horse as a shield. He peeked under its neck, but the shooter was nowhere to be seen.

  Climbing onto the saddle again, Nate reined his horse toward the alley. Seeing it was empty, he raced to the other end, stopping before he reached the end.

  Searching both directions, Nate saw no sign of the shooter. The man could disappear faster than a mouse being chased by a cat. He’d done the same thing the first time he shot at him and Rebekah, but how? The most important question of all—why was the man using him as a target?

  Nate dismounted, his frustration building. He explored every building, boardwalk, and bush. Finding nothing, he jumped onto the saddle and headed into the hills, doubtful he’d find any trace of the man.

  An hour later, empty-handed, he rode into town straight toward the sheriff’s office. If the sheriff was in, he’d confront him with the news he’d been shot at. He’d be interested to see how the lawman reacted.

  Minutes later, Nate stood on the opposite side of the desk from Sheriff Caldwell. He knew before a word was spoken he’d get no sympathy or concern. With the snarl on the man’s face, he’d be lucky if he heard him out.

  “What do you want? I’ve got work to do.”

  A sarcastic reply burned on his tongue. Nate swallowed it back. The Scriptures said a fool utters what’s in his mind but a wise man keeps it in. “Someone shot at me.”

  Sheriff Caldwell sat back in his chair and crossed his arms. “Did you get a good look at the shooter?”

  “I think so.”

  “So you know who he is?”

  Just as Nate thought, the sheriff was about to start twisting the circumstances to make him look bad. “I don’t know his name, but he shot at us once before.” The moment the words left his mouth, he wanted to grab them back.

  “Us?”

  Dumb. A slip of the tongue. Inexcusable for an investigator. “Me and Rebekah Weaver.”

  The glower deepened. “And I’m just now hearing about it?” He grunted and leaned his forearms on his desk. “You trying to get the young lady killed?”

  He fought his temper. “Of course not.” The sheriff didn’t say another word, so Nate went on the attack. “Are you planning to do anything about this shooter?”

  “Like what? You don’t know who it was.”

  “But I know what he looks like. Don�
��t you want a description?” He propped his fists on the desk, bringing him to within an arm’s reach of the lawman. “Or do you already know about the shooting and know who did it?”

  One corner of the sheriff’s mouth curled up. “And how would I know who did it?”

  Now this was the reaction Nate figured he’d get—the smug, calculating attitude. “Maybe you had something to do with it.”

  The sheriff shoved to his feet, toppling his chair. “You better watch your mouth, boy. Accusations like that could land you into big trouble, like getting hurt in a bad way.”

  Nate narrowed his eyes. “Is that a threat, Sheriff?”

  The way the sheriff’s jaw moved, Nate wondered if he was gnawing on his tongue. He’d definitely struck a nerve. Now that he’d gotten the reaction he wanted, it was time to move along.

  “I’ll check back later to see what you’ve found out about the shooter.” Nate tipped his hat. “I’m sure you’ll do your job and go looking for him.”

  Not waiting for a response, Nate strode out the door and closed it a bit too hard. He could have handled that better, but considering that he wanted to slam the man to the ground, he’d done pretty well.

  The next step was to find a place to keep an eye on the office and follow the sheriff if he left. If he was guilty, the sheriff would seek out the shooter to talk, not to arrest him. At the slight possibility he’d actually try to do his job, there was a good chance the sheriff knew who the shooter might be and go after him. Either way, Nate would find the man trying to kill him.

  He reined his horse down the street in the direction of his hotel, hoping the sheriff would call it a night. Several buildings down, he turned into a narrow alley and dismounted, crouched, and leaned against the wall, ready to wait as long as it took. If he guessed correctly, the sheriff would show in no time.

  Minutes later, Perry strode past. He stopped in front of the sheriff’s office and tried to enter but slammed into the door. Perry tried the knob again and frowned. He cupped his hands at the window and peered inside before returning to the door and pounding with his fists. Then, with hands on hips, he stood on the boardwalk, looking up and down the street.