Noah smiled. "Anna was right." He sounded pleased.
Tate's brows lifted. "Have you two been talking about me and Gretchen?"
"We just like to see folks doing the right thing."
Tate gave Noah a measured look. "And what exactly is the right thing?" he asked slowly. He peered warily at Noah, realizing the man might be about to come out with an uncomfortable truth.
Noah smiled warmly. "Anna said Gretchen was going to Inspiration to find someone she can marry." He lifted a brow and gave Tate a look that shook him to his boots. "Maybe she's already found that man."
Tate leaned back on his heels. He felt like he'd been struck a physical blow. "Are you being serious, Noah?"
"I'm always serious when it comes to matters of what is right, Tate. You've been keeping Gretchen safe since she arrived in Refuge." Noah pointed out past the yard. "You told me that yourself, out there this morning, when we were working on that field."
"But that was just something I felt I had to do, Noah," Tate objected. "She was so vulnerable."
"Are you telling me you did it because of sense of justice? And nothing else?" Noah asked.
Tate sensed the conversation was edging toward a difficult place. The mention of justice made him realize that Noah didn't know the whole story. Not about Tate's real identity. Not about what he'd been doing to infiltrate the Wolfe gang. Noah just didn't realize what he'd allowed into his family home. Suddenly, Tate felt a strong urge to tell Noah the truth. The thought of accepting this man's hospitality and not revealing at least some of what was going on made Tate feel a heavy sensation in his gut.
Just as Tate was about to start to speak, Noah glanced over his shoulder. "Looks like we've got a visitor," Noah said.
Tate peered along the trail and saw a buckboard heading toward the homestead. A solitary man held the reins. Even from this distance Tate could see the man's flame-red hair.
Noah smiled and rested a hand on Tate's shoulder. "Come. I'll introduce you to Hamish. He's our neighbor from over in the other valley. He has a homestead, too. Bigger than ours." Noah grinned. "You'll like him. He's Scottish."
The buckboard roared into the yard. As Hamish drew it to a halt he called out to Noah. "Hey, neighbor. I need to ask you for a favor."
Tate followed Noah to the buckboard. Hamish got down and brushed the dust from his jeans and buckskin jacket. Up close, Hamish's hair was even more startlingly red than it had seemed from a distance. The color of the man's complexion matched his hair. He was a tall man, broad shouldered and bulky around the chest. Hamish looked like the kind of man well-accustomed to outdoor work. There was no doubt about it. Homesteaders were a special breed, Tate reflected as Hamish's gaze settled upon him.
Noah gestured toward Tate. "Hamish. This here is Tate Campbell."
Hamish thrust a big hand out and Tate took it. "Good to meet you," Tate said.
As Hamish shook Tate's hand, his eyes narrowed, examining Tate carefully. "Campbell? You don't have much of an accent."
"I'm second generation. I never did get that Scottish burr," Tate explained and smiled.
Hamish nodded and glanced quizzically at Noah, perhaps seeking an explanation, Tate thought.
"Tate and his companion, Gretchen, got caught in that storm last night. And she was a bit poorly." Noah smiled. "So me and Anna let them stay overnight at our place."
When Hamish glanced again at Tate there was a new look in the man's eyes.
Recognition.
Tate felt his heartbeat quicken. Did Hamish know Tate from somewhere? He was sure he hadn't seen Hamish before.
As if reading Tate's mind, Hamish asked in an even voice: "I have a feeling that I've seen you somewhere before."
An image flashed into Tate's mind. A daylight street scene outside a mercantile. A chill slid up Tate's spine. He masked his reaction with a blank expression. "Really?"
Hamish nodded. "I'm sure I've seen your face before." He rubbed his chin. "But I can't for the life of me think where." Hamish frowned. "You were traveling with a lady companion?"
"We're on our way to Inspiration," Tate explained.
"Nice little town," Hamish stated. "Why are you going there?"
Noah laughed. "We can tell you all about it later," he said and took Hamish by the arm. "Now what is it you need from us, Hamish that made you come all the way over here?"
As Noah led Hamish away, the Scotsman turned his head and peered at Tate. Hamish narrowed his eyes. Tate could see the man desperately trying to recall where he'd seen Tate before.
Tate waited a moment, letting Noah lead his visitor away. He heard the two men talking, but couldn't make out what they were saying to each other. The truth was, Tate didn't care what they were talking about. All he could think of was the image which had appeared in his mind as Hamish had spoken to him.
Tate had seen Hamish before. He knew that now. And it probably wouldn't be long before Hamish recalled where they had encountered one another.
Tate thought back to a month ago. On the Main Street of Refuge, when he'd been riding into town with Frank Wolfe's gang. Just having infiltrated the renegade outfit, Tate had glanced across at the mercantile. There he had seen three men emerging. Work-hardened men dressed exactly like Hamish was dressed today. And, right in the middle had been one man. A man with flame-red hair.
On that day, Hamish had halted with his two companions and watched with obvious distaste at the sight of a group of dangerous-looking drifters riding into town.
And, Tate had been at the head of that group, right alongside Frank Wolfe.
Tate dragged in a deep breath. If Hamish recalled who Tate was then that might bring everything crashing down. Tate would be exposed and his plan would be ended. If that happened, then Gretchen would find out exactly who Tate was.
And then he might lose her forever.
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Something was wrong with Tate.
Gretchen knew it. But there was nothing she could do about it. Not while he seemed to be doing his utmost to avoid speaking with her.
Ever since she and Tate had sat at the table in the cabin, taking lunch with Anna, Noah, the children and their visitor, Hamish, she had tried to understand the sudden change which had come over Tate.
All afternoon he'd seemed preoccupied. Sullen. Quiet almost to the point of rudeness. She couldn't figure out what could have made him change from the charming, good-humored cowboy who'd been so concerned for her well-being this morning, to the tight-lipped, withdrawn man who'd sat at the table playing with his food. He hadn't joined in with any of the playful banter between Noah, Anna and Hamish.
For her part, Gretchen liked the Scotsman. He had a down-to-earth good humor which lifted her spirits. But there was one thing she did notice about Hamish. Every once in a while, he peered at Tate and looked momentarily puzzled. He almost looked as if he was trying to recall something. Gretchen wondered what it could be.
After Hamish had left, driving off down the trail on his buckboard, Tate had gone outside with Nathaniel. Apparently Tate had promised to help the boy learn how to handle a rope. As she had watched from the porch, Gretchen had taken a special delight when she'd seen how excited Nathaniel had become every time Tate leaned closer, rope in hand, instructing Nathaniel in the finer points of handling a rope.
It occurred to Gretchen that Tate looked mighty comfortable working with the boy. In fact, Tate Campbell seemed to possess a natural affinity with children. He'd made Jane laugh countless times since they'd arrived. And the children had warmed to Tate, clearly feeling at ease around him.
Gretchen leaned against the porch post and watched Tate show Nathaniel how to throw a loop of rope around the corral's corner post. Finally, after numerous attempts, the boy succeeded. The sound of Nathaniel's triumphant cheering echoed across the yard, bringing Anna out onto the porch to see what all the fuss was about.
Anna came to Gretchen's side. "Nathaniel's enjoying every minute of that," Anna observed. Gretchen glanced at the
other woman. Perceptive as usual, Anna's eyes narrowed. "What bothering you, Gretchen? Are you feeling unwell again?"
Gretchen shook her head. "No. I feel fine."
"Then what is it?" Anna insisted.
Gretchen sighed. "I don't know what's got into Tate. He hasn't been the same since Hamish came to visit."
"I noticed he was quiet during lunch," Ann agreed. "Maybe he's worrying about the rest of your journey."
"No. I think it must be something else," Gretchen said. "I haven't seen him like this before."
"Noah told me that Hamish thinks he's seen Tate before," Anna explained.
Gretchen frowned. "Really?" Worry flared into life.
"But Hamish couldn't recall exactly where he'd seen Tate."
Gretchen looked across the yard at Tate and Nathaniel. "Even if I ask him, I'm sure Tate won't tell me what's troubling him."
Anna's eyes narrowed. "You think he's keeping things from you?"
Gretchen sighed. "I'm not sure. Once or twice, since we met, I've gotten the impression that there's more to him than just a cowboy who wants to help me out."
Anna laughed quietly. "He is more than that. Tate's a man who believes in doing what's right. In justice. He wouldn't have offered to help you if he didn't believe in that." Gretchen saw Anna peer intently at Tate. "I suspect Tate will tell you what you need to know. Maybe you just have to wait. Sometimes men just have to be given the time to say what's on their mind."
Gretchen's jaw tightened as frustration welled up inside her. "I really want to know what he's thinking."
"Patience is a virtue," Anna said. And then she added with a warm smile. "It must be true. It says so in the Bible."
Gretchen nodded, feeling her tension drain away. It felt good to be sharing this moment with Anna. To be reminded of truths which Gretchen knew should never be forgotten.
Anna edged closer to Gretchen. "When do you think you'll be leaving?" Anna asked.
Gretchen wrapped her arms around herself and glanced up at the blue sky. "I don't know. Soon, maybe. The weather has improved." She looked across at Tate. "And I think Tate is anxious to be on the move again."
"I think you're right. He's the determined kind," Anna said. "I get the impression he thinks he's on a mission. And he has to see it through to a finish."
Gretchen told herself Anna was probably right. The only thing Gretchen wasn't sure about now was which mission Tate was on. Yesterday, she'd felt it had been all about her. About keeping her safe and getting her to Inspiration. But, after seeing the way Tate had reacted during the visit of Hamish, she wondered if there was something Tate hadn't yet revealed to her.
Gretchen saw Anna gaze carefully at her. When Anna spoke, it was in a low voice, as if she didn't want it to carry across the yard to Tate and Nathaniel. "Can I say something to you, Gretchen? Confidential, like. You know. One woman to another."
Gretchen felt something twist in her middle. She could see the kindly, but concerned look in Anna's eyes. She was going to talk about Tate. Gretchen knew that, with absolute certainty. "Sure," Gretchen agreed.
"I was thinking about what we were saying earlier. About marriage. And going to settle down in Inspiration," Anna said slowly. "I know it isn't any of my business, but I figure if you're going to leave, we might never see each other again. And I couldn't forgive myself if I didn't tell you how I see things."
Gretchen smiled warmly. "You can tell me anything, Anna. I know you mean well."
Anna rolled her eyes. "If you ask Noah, he'll tell you I'm always speaking my mind. Telling it like I see it. Sometimes he tells me I should think a little more carefully before offering my opinions." Anna sighed. " But, in this instance, I just can't keep from saying something to you about Tate."
Gretchen turned and faced Anna. "Tate?"
Anna nodded. "He isn't just a good man, Gretchen." Anna paused and glanced one more time in Tate's direction. When she spoke, her voice was soft but firm. "I think he's the right man for you."
Gretchen's heartbeat quickened and she gasped. "What!" she exclaimed quietly.
Anna nodded. "I've seen the way he looks at you, Gretchen. If you ask me, I think you've found a place in his heart."
Gretchen lifted a hand to the collar of her gown. She felt her cheeks flush with heat. She was sure her face had turned a delicate shade of pink. "I don't think that can be possible. Tate and I have only know each other a couple of days."
Anna smiled softly. "When the Lord brings two hearts together, time doesn't matter. All that matters is whether it is His will." Anna leaned closer. "And I think God has brought you and Tate together for a higher purpose. You belong together." When Gretchen sighed loudly, and prepared to offer an objection, Anna waved a dismissive hand. "Nothing you can say will change my opinion. I've seen the way you glance at Tate.
Gretchen turned away and swallowed, feeling her heartbeat pounding. Had it been that obvious? Gretchen had been sure she'd done a good job of schooling her features to disguise her secret thoughts about Tate. It seemed like she hadn't succeeded.
"Don't go trying to tell me Tate is just a helpful companion to you. I've seen plenty of people in love with each other," Anna declared.
Gretchen whirled around and peered at Anna. "Love!" she breathed quietly. She shook her head. "I might like Tate. And I appreciate his help. But love? That's not possible, Anna."
Anna just smiled patiently. "You go on telling that to yourself. See how long your denial lasts between here and Inspiration." Anna chuckled. "There's no hiding from the truth. Especially if it is the Lord's will."
Gretchen was silent for a long moment. Her mind was a whirl of confusing thoughts. She wanted to tell Anna that every word she'd just uttered had been false. That Tate was nothing more than a helpful companion. But the suddenness of Anna's declaration had caught Gretchen off guard. And in doing that, Anna had forced Gretchen to face a truth she'd been trying to avoid since soon after meeting Tate. The handsome cowboy had found a way into her heart. That much was true. And Anna could be right. God worked his miracles in mysterious ways. Gretchen asked herself if this was her own miracle. Had God abandoned her in Refuge so she could meet Tate Campbell?
Anna rested a hand on Gretchen's shoulder. "Think about what I said, Gretchen." Nathaniel's delighted scream echoed across the yard. Anna glanced across at Tate and her son and smiled. "Tate's a good man. And he might be the one for you."
Gretchen's eyes widened. She wanted to refute Anna's words. She wanted to say it couldn't be true. Gretchen's mouth opened, but she couldn't tell the kindly homesteader that she had it all wrong. All Gretchen could do was smile softly.
Anna took a step toward the cabin door. "Maybe you can help me and Jane fix the dinner." Then Anna lifted a brow and grinned. "That's after you've finished thinking about that man over there," she added and glanced across at Tate.
Gretchen knew she should have laughed at that last comment, but she couldn't bring herself to do so. Instead, she nodded and said: "I'll be in soon."
Anna went back inside the cabin. Gretchen leaned against the porch post and curled her arm around it, almost as if she needed something solid to stop her from tumbling to the dusty yard. Her emotions were swirling, and her mind was a riot of confusing impressions. Taking a few moments to calm herself, she tried to make sense of what she and Anna had spoken about.
Now that the truth had been spoken, Gretchen wondered what she could do. Now that she was feeling physically better, she knew the journey to Inspiration would resume. And, for the next couple of days, she and Tate would be thrown together in the Montana wilderness.
However, everything had changed now. No longer was she just traveling through the frontier country with a helpful cowboy as her guide. Now, she had to contend with a whole new, and very dangerous threat. If her feelings for the cowboy were real, then she was in as much danger as she would be if there were bears or wolves hidden in the forests. Because, Gretchen wasn't sure she was going to be able to keep those feelings hi
dden for the remainder of the journey.
And, if Tate decided to reveal how he felt about her, then somewhere between Anna and Noah's homestead and Inspiration, Gretchen was sure she was going to face a crisis bigger than anything she'd ever experienced in her life.
If the cowboy declared his love, Gretchen didn't know how she was going to deal with that.
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
"Are you feeling up to leaving tomorrow?" Tate asked Gretchen after dinner. Tate was sitting across from Gretchen at the table in the cabin. Anna, Noah, Nathaniel and Jane had gone outside to the porch. Anna had said the family had a habit of going out there during the summer evenings. Noah liked to show the stars to the children and teach them about constellations. Gretchen heard the quiet laughter of the children. She could have gone outside there with them, but Anna had hinted with a knowing looks that she wanted Gretchen and Tate to stay in the cabin.
That meant Gretchen had been left with Tate, alone in the cabin. After her conversation with Anna today, Gretchen was sure there had been nothing accidental about her and Tate being given the chance to talk before setting out on the next leg of their journey.
Gretchen placed her cup of coffee down on the table and looked across at Tate. She was eager to resume her journey. "I think so. We've imposed enough on this lovely family."
Tate nodded. "I agree. I don't want to overstay our welcome. They've already been so generous." His brows furrowed and he leaned forward, propping his elbows on the table. "But you have to tell me the truth."
"The truth?" Gretchen asked. She lifted a brow and recalled what Anna had said to her.
Tate nodded "That you're feeling fully recovered. I don't want you starting out if you don't feel strong enough."
"I'm fine, Tate," Gretchen said softly. "You don't need to worry about me."
His brows ridged into deeply creased lines. Tate reached across and rested his hand upon her arm. His soft touch sent waves of delight sweeping through her body. She swallowed and then gazed into his eyes. The change in him had been sudden.
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