Except she hadn’t fallen in love with a rough-edged drover. She’d fallen in love with Will.
The truth stole the breath from her lungs. She’d just spent the past hour lecturing James on courage and responsibility, and she’d only just faced the truth herself. She’d faced the truth, but she couldn’t face Will. Not yet. The truth was too raw.
Bracing her forehead against the wardrobe, she groaned.
Now what?
* * *
The meeting was in full swing when Tomasina arrived. She took a seat near the back and watched the proceedings in silence. As Will spoke about the robbery, her gaze was drawn to his lips. Just like everything else he did, he sure was a good kisser. He smiled a warm greeting, and her gaze skittered away.
At least the townsfolk had calmed somewhat since the incident with James. The tension remained, and they were all concerned about the Murdochs, but no one was calling out the drovers. There were several items on the agenda that afternoon.
Mr. Livingston announced that Noah Burgess had donated several acres of land west of town for the town cemetery. The plot was to be named Boot Hill in deference to the soldiers who had founded the town.
Quincy Davis proposed moving Zeb Murdoch to the larger jail in Morgan’s Creek. The motion was approved, and Quincy and the deputies left to make the arrangements for the transfer.
Near the end of the meeting, Remmy Hagermann stood. “I’d like to propose a motion. The town council needs a spokesperson. We need someone dedicated to pursuing and developing business, as well as recruiting settlers to Cowboy Creek.”
“That sounds awful fancy,” Abram Booker said. “Why do we need someone to sell our businesses? Shouldn’t we do our own advertising?”
“We create a stronger front if we’re united,” Remmy replied. “Last week Miss Stone recommended several ways for shops throughout town to exploit business from the drovers. A couple fellows and I got to talking and, if we all chip in, we can hire someone to come up with more ideas and coordinate the efforts among the owners. We also need a way to entice more settlers to our town.”
“That seems like a big job,” Mr. Booker called from the back of the room. “Who do you propose we get for that job?”
“Tomasina Stone.”
Tomasina gasped and sat straighter.
Amos Godwin turned toward her. “I hope you don’t mind, but I suggested your name.”
“Of course not.” She pressed her hands against her warm cheeks. “I don’t know what to say. I’m not certain I’m qualified for the job.”
“Please consider the idea,” Amos said, his eyes kind. “We need someone who loves the town. Someone who can convince others of the benefits of living and working in Cowboy Creek.”
“We need a girl, as well,” Remmy chimed in. “The town needs more ladies.”
At his blunt declaration, the men laughed.
Tomasina searched the room for Will. He’d insisted she attend the meeting. Had he known about the plan?
Despite her questioning stare, he said nothing. His expression gave her no clue if he was for or against the appointment. His gaze remained hooded, almost brooding. She had no idea what he thought of the announcement. Had he supported her name? Was he appalled? As one of the town founders, his opinion mattered.
“I’ll consider the offer,” Tomasina said. “Thank you.”
His opinion mattered too much. His opinion mattered because she loved him. How could she see him every day, loving him, and never tell him the truth? Living in Cowboy Creek would become torture. Especially if he married one of the new brides. Even the thought of him courting someone else sent her stomach pitching.
He worked his way toward her, and she scooted aside. She couldn’t face him. She was afraid of making herself more vulnerable. The feelings he evoked were powerful and frightening.
As soon as Remmy declared the meeting adjourned, Tomasina leaped from her seat and shot toward the door. Will called out for her, and she pretended she hadn’t heard. Sooner or later she’d have to look him in the eye, but not now.
She took the stairs two at time and reached the second floor in record time. Upon reaching her room, she shut the door and leaned back against the solid wood panels.
Hannah stared at her, her expression curious, Ava bundled and dozing in her arms. “How was the meeting? You left before I woke up this morning.”
“Good.” Tomasina shook the cobweb of thoughts from her head. “Has your father come around to the wedding?”
Hannah had returned late once again the previous evening. At least this time the reverend’s daughter had been telling the truth—she’d been mending her relationship with her father. And though Tomasina had been awake at the time and curious when Hannah returned, she’d let the poor girl fall asleep immediately.
Hannah rolled her eyes. “The reverend has given the marriage his blessing. But not because of anything James or I said. Mr. Canfield spoke with him.”
“He did?”
“James and I pleaded with him until we were blue in the face. I begged and James pleaded. The sun was rising, and we were all exhausted. Mr. Canfield checked on us and pulled my father aside. I don’t know what he said, but James and I are getting married.”
“That’s wonderful.”
“The marriage isn’t the only thing. Leah came by, as well. She wants to throw an engagement party.” Hannah peeled back the blanket and brushed her knuckles along Ava’s cheeks. “I tried to refuse, really I did. But she was adamant. She said with all the talk in town, we might as well get everything out in the open.” Sighing, she caught her lower lip between her teeth. “Since everyone knows about the baby, the rumor mill is running double speed. A party will give everyone a chance to gawk and get the gossip out of their systems. Then we’ll just be another family settling in Cowboy Creek.”
“Sounds like a good idea.”
“You have to come. You’re the only friend I have, and I want someone there if my courage falters. What if people aren’t as welcoming as Leah says? What if no one comes at all? What then?”
“Oh, Hannah.” Tomasina touched her shoulder. “I’ll be there. I’ll sock anyone who even looks at you wrong.”
“I understand if, because of the circumstances, you’d rather not.”
“Don’t be a dolt. I know James, remember?” Tomasina grew somber. “Is marrying James what you want? Is this what will make you happy?”
“Yes.” Hannah sighed, her eyes filled with love. “I know James has a lot of growing up to do, but he’s a good man.”
“He is. And he loves you.”
A blush tinged Hannah’s cheeks. “Do you think so?”
“I know so.” Tomasina surveyed the room. “Let’s get to the most important thing. What are you going to wear to the party?” They rummaged through the dresses and discovered one suitable for the engagement party.
Leah came by to check on Hannah once more. Despite her ordeal, Hannah was fit and healthy with no lingering effects from her pregnancy.
Leah examined the baby and declared Ava fit, as well. “Congratulations on your wedding. James is a fine young man. He approached Daniel this morning about renting a house.”
Hannah beamed. “We’re staying in Cowboy Creek. I want to be near my father, and James has a job at the stockyards. He might find something different, but this is a start.”
Patting her stomach, Leah smiled. “Have you thought about the engagement party? I know you’re worried, but I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the welcome you’ll receive. People come West for a fresh start...they understand that life isn’t always easy.”
“I am.” Hannah gazed at Ava, her eyes brimming with love. “I’m not ashamed of Ava.”
Leah touched her growing stomach. “Don’t worry, I’ve invited everyone who’s anyone to the
party. With the support of Noah, Will and Daniel, no one will dare say a word against you. They know better.”
Tomasina’s chest lurched. She’d planned on avoiding Will until she’d sorted out her feelings for him. She’d hoped on taking weeks, possibly months. Maybe even a few years. Tomorrow was far too soon. She needed more time.
“I’ve already started planning a menu,” Leah told them. “A garden party. We’ll set up tents outside and serve sandwiches and salads and cakes.”
Hannah brightened. “Are you certain?”
“I spoke with my helper, Miss Ewing, this morning. Aunt Mae is offering to make pies. Pippa has volunteered to decorate. We want this party to be special for you, Hannah. No matter what the circumstances, you’re one of our brides, and you’re getting married. That’s cause for celebration.”
The girl’s eyes welled. “Thank you.”
Leah squeezed her shoulders in a quick hug. “You’re part of this community. We’re happy to help.”
After she left, Hannah stared at the door. “I can’t believe how nice everyone is being. Considering what a mess I made of everything.”
Tomasina perched on the bed across from her. “You’re a good person, Hannah. Everyone makes mistakes.”
“Even you?”
“Especially me.”
She’d fallen in love with Will Canfield, hadn’t she? How was she going to get through a whole party without blurting the truth? She’d become adept at hiding her emotions over the years, but she’d never felt like this before.
She’d never had to hide her love. Will had always admired her honesty. Did she admit her feelings or keep them hidden?
The answer remained just out of reach.
* * *
The day of the engagement party Will donned his best suit. Tomasina hadn’t given the town council an answer. He didn’t know if she was accepting the job or even if she was staying in Cowboy Creek.
Worse yet, she’d been avoiding him. He’d been trying to pin her down since yesterday. There was no way she was avoiding him today. She had to attend the party. No one refused Leah.
Simon held out his jacket, and he slipped his arms into the sleeves.
“Tomasina won’t be able to take her eyes off you,” Simon remarked.
Will sighed. “Am I that obvious?”
“Maybe not to everyone.” The boy handed him a rose for his lapel. “I have a feeling Miss Stone returns the sentiment.”
“I’ve never been less certain of anything in my life.”
“Who could resist you?”
“Apparently quite a few people.” Will followed him out the door. “Don’t erect any monuments in my honor yet, I haven’t even seen Tomasina since the town council meeting. She’s avoiding me.”
“You’ll prevail.”
Will admired the boy’s confidence. If only he had some of his own.
Even with short notice, Leah had transformed her garden into a festive occasion. Tents were arranged in a neat row dissecting the garden path, with tables and chairs scattered around. The turnout was better than any of them had expected. Dressed in their Sunday best, folks milled around the tables, laughing and chatting.
In light of all the recent events, Will and Daniel had postponed visiting Noah another day. They still had time before the arrival of his bride. Not much time. But some.
James carried Ava and stayed close to Hannah’s elbow. He doted on the two women in his life, hovering protectively when someone approached. When the party proved festive and singularly uneventful, James’s shoulders relaxed, and he even laughed at something Remmy said.
Tomasina had donned the pear-green gown she’d worn to the dance. A coronet of flowers circled her brilliant red curls. She was enchanting. She was perfect. She was tying him in knots. He was a hopeless romantic, after all.
Following Daniel’s toast to the new couple, Will approached Tomasina. She was tucked between the tent and the house, and there was no escape.
Her gaze darted around, and she looked like a rabbit trapped in a snare.
He blocked her exit. “You’ve been avoiding me again.”
“Yes.”
“Would you like to tell me why?”
“No.”
He chuckled. She was nothing if not blunt. “There’s something I’d like to show you.”
“What?”
“It’s a surprise,” he said.
“I don’t like surprises.”
“Oh.” His face tingled and his ears buzzed. “Um, well...”
“I’m only joking.” She swatted his arm. “Are you all right? You look a little green. Has someone set the potato salad in the sun?”
“No. It’s not the potato salad.” This wasn’t exactly an auspicious start to a romantic encounter. “I’m fine.”
“All right.” Her brilliant green eyes took on a misty look that confused him. “What did you want to show me?”
He stuck out his elbow. “Walk with me.”
She glanced over her shoulder. “I promised Hannah I’d stay until she was settled.”
“She’s fine. Look at her.”
Hannah was proudly showing off Ava to Pippa and Gideon.
“I suppose you’re right,” Tomasina murmured, a touch of wistfulness in her voice. “She’s in capable hands.”
“I’m right? Can I have that engraved on my plaque?”
“I thought you were embarrassed by the monument.”
“I’d reconsider if you added that line.”
“Get used to being embarrassed.” She smiled. “I see right through you, Will Canfield. You’re distracting me from my melancholy over Ava. I’ll miss her, of course, but knowing she’s in the loving care of her parents eases the pain.”
How had he ever existed without her in his life? She delighted him and challenged him, and he reveled in their spirited exchanges.
Every minute of his life had led up to this point. He was both terrified and hopeful. She hadn’t agreed to stay in Cowboy Creek, but she hadn’t left, either. Together they walked to his house in companionable silence. The outside had been completed, and the finish work had started on the inside.
They stood across the street, and he sucked in a fortifying breath. “This house is what I wanted you to see.”
She placed a hand over her chest. “Oh, my. That is a grand undertaking.”
“This is my house.”
Her gaze shifted away. “I don’t know what to say.”
“Then don’t say anything.”
He led her across the street, took the key from his pocket, opened the enormous front door and led her inside.
She tipped back her head and gaped at the elaborate crystal chandelier above her head. “You do everything on a grand scale, don’t you, Will Canfield?”
“Yes.” He chuckled. “While building this house, I employed over sixty laborers. Craftsman and workers who fell in love with the town and settled here. We’re hoping Cowboy Creek becomes the county seat.”
“And eventually you’d like to be governor?”
“Maybe. I don’t know anymore.”
She caught his sleeve. “You must. The country needs men like you.”
“Do they?”
“Yes. They do.”
“What do you need, Tomasina?”
Her smile was tinged with sorrow. “Do you know you’re the only person who ever calls me by my full name? Everyone else calls me Tom.”
“You haven’t answered my questions. You were leaving with James. What will you do now?”
“I was never leaving with James,” she said, meeting his wary gaze.
“You weren’t?”
“Maybe for about ten minutes.” She clasped her hands behind her back. “I considered leaving. But th
en I realized I couldn’t.”
“Why not?”
“Because I want to stay here. In Cowboy Creek.”
Hope flared in his heart. “Can you be happy here?”
“I made the decision to live my life as a drover when I was just a kid following in my pa’s footsteps. That used to be good enough for me. Not anymore. I want to do something on my own. I want to earn my own respect. I want to build something outside of what my pa created.”
“Then you’d consider staying on in Cowboy Creek and helping with the businesses?”
“Yes.” She grew somber. “I have only one problem with staying.”
All his fears returned with the force of a rain-swollen river. He’d never been as defenseless as he was in that moment. The potent feelings she evoked had him terrified.
“What’s that?” he asked, fearing the answer.
“I’m in love with you, Will Canfield.”
His heart clattered discordantly. He reached for her and she braced her hands on his shoulders, keeping him at a distance.
“After seeing Hannah admit the truth about Ava, I knew I had to be brave. Just this once. I knew I couldn’t stay in Cowboy Creek without telling you that I love you. But I don’t want to hold you back. You have ambitions, and I’m not cut out to be a politician’s wife.”
“Who says?” He stared into her wide and wondering eyes. “You once told me the country needed men who understood the South to rebuild. What better person by my side than Texas Tom?”
“Are you certain you want to marry a former drover? Think of the scandal.”
With slow deliberation, he slipped his hand against her neck and hauled her to him. “I want to marry you, Tomasina Stone, because I love you.” Her eyes flared, and his heartbeat kicked up a notch. “If you want to drive cattle, I’ll wait for you. If you hate this house, I’ll sell it. If you loathe politics, I’ll become a milliner and sell hats out of Hannah’s store. All I want out of life is your love and the promise that you’ll be my wife. Nothing else matters.”
“Truly?”
“I survived a war. I know what’s important.” Leaning down, he pressed a soft kiss against her parted lips. “Truly.”
“You better stick to being a politician.”
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