by Carré White
“I’ve great respect for the man.”
“So much respect that you’d kiss his fiancé.”
His head snapped in my direction. “You kissed me back.”
“Hardly.” Then an ugly thought appeared. “Are you planning on blackmailing me, Chuck? Is that what this has been about?”
“I don’t know what you’re gettin’ at. I like to kiss pretty ladies, if given half the chance. I won’t mention your indiscretion to Jack, if that’s what you’re worried about.”
I wanted to hit him. “It wasn’t an indiscretion, but your behavior is questionable. If you think you’re going to blackmail me into something—forget it. I’ll tell my husband everything that went on during our time together. I have nothing to hide.”
He glowered, his lower lip protruding. “Yeah? I don’t cotton to threats, lady.”
“I don’t like pompous men.”
“Pompous?”
Did he not know what that word meant? “Arrogant, full of themselves and inflated with self-importance. Those types of men don’t interest me.”
“You shouldn’t have married old Jack then,” he laughed, coughing. “You got another thing coming, honey. You married the biggest—” His look became furtive, as he realized he was about to say something he shouldn’t. “Never mind.”
“Biggest what?” Although Chuck had known Mr. Kelly for years, I got the impression they were not friends. “What?”
“Nothin’.”
“You’re jealous of him.”
A reddish color spread over his cheekbones. “Nah.”
I smiled inwardly, knowing I had pieced together the puzzle. “After today, I don’t want to see you again.” We approached a grouping of outbuildings, and several men were on horseback in a nearby paddock. Wooden fences bordered the road, as cows grazed on either side.
“We’ll see about that. I’m Mr. Kelly’s go-to guy. He needs me around. There’s always something I’m doing for him.”
That did not please me. “We’ll see.” We approached a house; its two-story façade revealed a lengthy front porch with several rocking chairs. A dog, which looked big enough to be a farm animal, sauntered towards us, his gait increasing as we neared. “Goodness. What type of dog is that?”
“That’s Otto. He’s a Saint Bernard. Friendly fellow, but he’s been known to growl up a storm with strangers.”
Alarmed by the animal’s size, I gripped the reins tighter. “Will he bite?”
“He shouldn’t, but maybe he won’t like you.”
I did not care for that response, but before I could say anything, a woman appeared on the front porch. “Mr. Brittle! You brought her. Mr. Kelly’s gone to town.” She wore a white apron over a green calico dress, her face awash with excitement.
Glancing at the dog beneath my feet, I felt reluctant to slide to the ground. The sheer size of the animal worried me, although his expression remained friendly. He gazed at me with glinting dark eyes, his tongue hanging from the side of a sizable mouth. Not wanting Mr. Brittle’s help, I sent out a silent prayer and hoped for a good outcome. If the animal should attack me, there would be little I could do to stop him. Slipping from the saddle, I wasn’t on the ground for more than a second before the dog sniffed me. Petrified, I froze, not knowing if I had placed myself in mortal danger or not.
“He’s fine, Miss Parsons,” said the woman. “He’s a walking carpet that one, but very friendly, unless you’re loud or angry.” The woman approached, holding out her hand. “I’m the housekeeper, Mrs. Myra Boles. I’m sorry about your train. Did you have a good ride in?”
I shook her hand, while the dog rubbed against my leg, nearly knocking me over. “I … yes. Oh, goodness, you’re awfully big.” I petted his head, feeling an abundance of thick fur. “What’s his name again?”
“Otto. He’s a big lug, that one.” She glanced at Mr. Brittle. “Where are her things?”
“She’s got the traveling bag, but the trunk’s on another train. I’m not sure when that’s gonna show up.”
“Thank you, Chuck. I think I can take it from here.” Compassionate eyes scanned me. “You must be tired.”
“I am, but I’d love to change into something else. These clothes are hardly appropriate for me to meet Mr. Kelly in.”
“Not to worry. We’ve lots of things for you to choose from. Your room’s all ready. I’ll put on water for a bath. You’ll be right as rain before Mr. Kelly comes home. Cook’s preparing a fine supper for you both. Everything’s in order.” She led me towards the steps. “Indeed. I’m sure you’ll find yourself quite pleased at The Kelly Ranch. We may be far from town, but all the modern conveniences that one expects in a city can be found here. We even have our own water closet.”
As Mr. Brittle guided the horses away, I cast one last look over my shoulder. He had taken that moment to stare at me as well. Something in that look sent a shiver down my spine, which left me with the impression that he was not in good spirits.
Chapter 5
The house was a revelation. Elegantly appointed with heavily carved furniture, imported, plush carpets, and brocade draperies, it was refined excellence at its best. Mrs. Boles escorted me to my room, with Otto at my feet, the dog imposing in stature and slightly terrifying. His yellow teeth could easily snap my wrist in half with just a small shake.
“Otto’s quite domesticated. We’ve been letting him in the house for years. He won’t chew on your boots, if that’s your worry.”
“No,” I eyed the enormous dog dubiously, “that’s fine.”
She opened a door on the second floor, revealing a bedroom. “You are lovelier than I expected, if you don’t mind me saying so. When Mr. Kelly said he was bringing in a mail order bride, I must confess, I had my doubts. Why on earth would a woman come all this way to marry a stranger?” She smiled kindly. “He read a few of your letters to me. I hope you’re not upset. I should disclose that right from the start. I did enjoy reading about your life, Lola. I do believe you might just make Mr. Kelly happy. He’s been alone for too long.”
Her honesty took me aback, but I appreciated it greatly. “I hope Mr. Kelly and I will be happy together. I have all his letters with me, and I read them often.”
She lifted a hand. “Well, here’s your room, wallpapered in green, just like you asked. You’ll find clothes in that set of drawers over there. They might be slightly out of fashion, but something should fit, until your trunk arrives. The water closet is down the hall to your right. We’ve hot and cold running faucets, but the bath’s never really all that warm. It’s still a marvel we have one. You may freshen up before supper. Mr. Kelly eats at eight. I’ll let you know when he arrives.” She appeared thoughtful. “Do you want a little something sent up? Tea and cucumber sandwiches?”
“Yes, please. Lunch was rather sparse.” My belly rumbled at the thought. Being late afternoon, I would be able to have a nap as well, which I longed for. Despite having slept last night, it must not have been all that refreshing, and then the nightmares, which I could not remember, had left me ill at ease. “Thank you, Mrs. Boles.”
“You’re welcome.” She glanced at the dog. “Come along, Otto. Out you go.” He had taken a seat at my feet, his hot breath fanning out over my arm. His blank look betrayed the fact that he had not understood a single word or cared to. “Otto? Let’s go now.” He remained unmoved. “Oh, for Pete’s sake.” She approached him, grabbing his collar. “Out, you numbskull.” He moved begrudgingly, dragging his hind feet, which caught on the carpet. “I’ll be. That dog is more likely to bark at people than like them.” She pulled on his collar sharply. “Get out of Miss Parson’s bedroom!” He went, but with little enthusiasm, his tail tucked between his legs.
I had to giggle at the spectacle, because the dog was almost bigger than Mrs. Boles. “He’s a character, all right.”
“Oh, just badly behaved today. Goodness.” She had him nearly through the door. “Tea will arrive soon. Do make yourself comfortable.”
“I
will. It won’t be hard. I adore the room. It’s truly lovely.”
“Mr. Kelly went through quite a bit of effort to make it special. He ordered the linens from Belgium, and the carpet’s from New England.”
Before I could say another word, she closed the door, leaving me speechless. I gazed at my surrounds, admiring the heavily carved four-poster bed, the wall of windows draped in green silk, and the gilt mirror over the dresser. I had never seen such opulence, bewildered that all of this was mine—or would be, once I married Jack Kelly.
I waited for the food to arrive, availing myself of several delicious sandwiches and tea before venturing to the water closet. Bathing in such a manner felt decadent, but I knew I could easily grow accustomed to it. The convenience of having water at will was truly a marvel of invention. Upon my return to the bedroom, Otto came upon me, sneaking into the room before I could close the door. I stared at the animal in horror, knowing I would never be able to coax him out.
“Oh, goodness gracious.” He sat upon the carpet, wagging his tail happily, while black eyes flashed with mirth. Nonplussed, I tried to ignore him, by drying myself and brushing out my hair, all the while he sat happily, licking his paw and making sloppy, chomping noises. “Must you be so loud?”
Dinner would not be until later, allowing for a nap. I climbed into bed, wearing nothing more than a chemise and drawers. I hadn’t the energy to peruse the clothing in the dresser, saving that task until later. Wanting to rest, I snuggled into the bedding, which smelled of soap with a hint of rose. The pillow felt like an enormous cotton ball beneath my head, and the comforter had been stuffed with goose down. I gloried in this, stretching my arms over my head and sighing.
The bed shook violently then, the frame creaking from the weight of something extraordinarily large, which had taken that moment to jump upon it. To my dismay, Otto had joined me, taking up nearly all of the bed, while he turned around in three circles, finding the perfect spot to drop to the mattress. I was not used to animals, especially one this size, having only had a cat once. The dog’s nose flared at my scent, his black, glistening eyes closing. I stared at him in vexation, realizing the beast meant to sleep with me.
“This can’t go on. If you even think you’re sleeping here tonight …” I let that threat hang in the air. Too exhausted to care, I turned to my side, staring at the wall, while visions of green wallpaper danced before my mind, before that eventually faded to black.
* * *
The feeling that something enormous had just jumped to the floor woke me. The dog sat by the door expectantly, his tail wagging behind him. Someone had called his name from below, and he wanted out. Sliding from the mattress, I padded barefoot across the plush carpet.
“There you go.” He dashed from the room, down the hall and to the stairs. The wall sconces had been lit. It had grown dark out. How long had I been sleeping?
I hurried to dress, finding a peach-colored bodice with a matching skirt. The skirt had been trimmed with black frill, the bustle in the back exorbitant, but the style was modern enough. There were stockings and underthings as well. A freshly laundered corset would replace the one I had worn for days while traveling. Once dressed, I examined my face in the mirror, finding several new freckles from the time spent outdoors. I arranged my hair in a bun, first by braiding the lengthy strands and winding them tightly. I secured the heavy mass to the back of my head with dozens of pins.
Once ready, I ventured from the room, hoping to finally catch a glimpse of my husband to be. I hadn’t gone far when I encountered Mrs. Boles, who waited for me at the foot of the stairs.
“Aren’t you divine? I knew that dress would suit you.”
“Thank you. Where is Mr. Kelly?”
“He’s been detained. He sends his regrets. Supper is waiting for you.”
My spirits plummeted. “Detained?”
“Yes, on cattle business.”
“Oh.”
Otto approached, sniffing me. I petted his head, threading my fingers through a patch of soft hair. “Is he often at business so late?”
“Not usually.” Her smile faltered for a brief second. “But, I’m sure he’ll be in to see you very soon.”
I followed her into the dining room, which was furnished in dark wallpaper and heavy drapes. The table had been set with crystal and gleaming forks and knives. Only one place setting stood upon the burgundy tablecloth. Candles flickered, while a gas chandelier hung overhead. A servant arrived carrying a tray hidden beneath a silver dome. I sat at the head of the table, a solitary figure in the oversized room, while Otto remained by my side, breathing heavily at my feet.
The food consisted of stuffed steak with mushrooms and Chester Pudding for dessert. I could find no fault with the fare, although I would have preferred to dine with my fiancé, but that had not been possible. I heard voices at one point, wondering if Mr. Kelly had arrived at the house. Otto benefited from some of my meal, as it was far too much for me to consume in one sitting. I dropped several scraps into his eager, waiting mouth, while he eyed me happily.
I pointed a finger at him. “You won’t be in my bed tonight, sir. Not if I can help it.” Mrs. Boles appeared then, startling me. “I didn’t hear you.”
She smiled slightly. “Mr. Kelly’s arrived. He’ll see you now.” She seemed stiff; her shoulders had squared.
“All right.” I left the napkin on the table. “He was a rather good dinner companion.”
“That dog is a nuisance. I’m sorry he bothered you. It shouldn’t be a bother for long.” She waved to me. “Come this way. He’s in the study.”
I followed her, feeling a strange sense of foreboding, which settled into the pit of my stomach. The hallway was dimly lit with sconces and plush, red carpet. The heavily carved doors to the study remained closed.
Mrs. Boles knocked sharply. “She’s here.”
“Send her in,” said a deep male voice.
I hesitated before the ornate double doors, knowing something was amiss, but not having a clue what it was. Mrs. Bole grasped Otto’s collar, dragging the animal away, while I entered Mr. Kelly’s study, finding a wood paneled room lined with bookcases. He sat behind an enormous desk, which took up the center, leaving only a small seating area before a stone fireplace. Mr. Kelly’s attention remained on a piece of paper before him, and it wasn’t until I cleared my throat that he looked at me, blinking rapidly.
He was older, as I expected, with a full head of hair, although it had grayed above the ears, and a handsome, yet slightly lined face. This by no means took away from his attractiveness. He stared at me coldly, dispassionately.
“Hello,” I said softly.
Getting to his feet, he wasn’t particularly tall, although he towered over me by several inches. “Welcome to The Kelly Ranch, Miss Parsons.” He strolled out from behind the desk to shake my hand. “I hope your journey wasn’t too taxing. I’m sorry about the train.”
“It was an adventure.” I shook his hand, finding a firm grip, while his eyes traveled across my face. In that moment, I felt terribly vulnerable and frightened; both feelings seemed impossible to hide. I had known something was off. I had sensed this meeting might not go as expected, and by the displeased look on Mr. Kelly’s face—my hunch had been accurate.
“You’re beautiful.”
I would have gloried in this assessment, but he continued to look severe, his features bordering on angry. “Is something wrong, sir?”
“Indeed.”
It felt like a stone tumbled over in my belly. Did he know who I really was? Had my mother contacted him? Worse, had my stepfather? “What is it?”
“I find you lacking.”
“I … I … what?” Stunned, I could only gape at him.
“I had expected more from you.” He crossed his arms over his chest. “So I orchestrated a mechanical failure with the train, which was easy enough to do. I sent out one of my more charismatic ranch hands to retrieve you, telling him to employ as much charm as he’s able to
test you.” His expression hardened. “And you failed the test.”
It was a full minute before the implication of his words seeped into my mind, shaking me awake. He had paid someone to break the train! Mr. Brittle’s ill-behaved and annoying attitude had been because his employer had hired him to act in this way—all to test me. “Was that necessary?”
An eyebrow lifted. “I say yes, and I’m glad I did it.”
What sort of man had I decided to marry? “Why would you do something like that, and how is it you think I’ve failed?”
“I require loyalty from those closest to me. I needed to know if a young and handsome face could sway you. You succumbed rather easily.”
“What exactly do you think happened out there?”
“You engaged in unseemly behavior with Mr. Brittle.”
“He kissed me. I had no desire for anything of that nature, I can assure you. He was ill-behaved and rude from the start.”
“Well, none of it matters now.”
“What are you saying?”
“I’ll be more than happy to pay for your ticket home, Miss Parsons. You may leave tomorrow.”
It felt as if my entire world had crashed down around me, ending as rubble beneath my feet. I stared at him, while my vision swam with tears. I hadn’t meant to embarrass myself in such a manner, showing a lack of control over my emotions, but I could not stop it. The thought of returning to Virginia, to conditions that were hardly ideal, left me with an acute sense of devastation and desperation. His cold, piercing eyes softened a smidgeon, the façade of anger slipping ever so slightly.
“You would just send me away? Just like that? You’d take that horrible man’s word over my own? You didn’t even greet me. You refused to eat with me. You blame me for something I didn’t do. You set me up to fail. If you didn’t want to marry me, you should’ve just said so, Mr. Kelly. It would’ve saved me from having to come all the way out here.” I took a deep breath, fighting a fresh wave of tears. “I find you lacking as well.”
