First Love Wild Love

by Janelle Taylor

  “Why are you telling me now?” Rankin probed.

  “These next two missions are tricky and deadly. If I don’t…get home again, I wanted you to know the truth about your son. Few Rangers know my cover, and no one else. I report to Major Jones; that’s how I know I can trust him. If anything had happened to me, he would have contacted you with the truth.” Lynx continued with his present orders. “Now you see how late I am? I’ll have to pull out as soon as the wedding’s over. I know it’s moving too fast, but I’ve got to keep her on the ranch. I want both her and the ranch, Father,” he stated simply.

  “If you’re not in love with her, son, you’re wavering on the edge of it,” Rankin said. “I’m proud of you, Lynx.”

  “Maybe I’m just too wary to trust anyone, especially a mysterious female, and certainly a Braxton. I can’t risk feeling too much for her until I’m positive it’s worth it,” Lynx candidly admitted.

  “I know what you mean,” Rankin concurred. “She does have a way of stealing your affection. I pray she deserves it.”

  “The only step she might take now would be a letter to or from the Simpsons. Make sure you intercept all mail except from me,” Lynx cautioned once more. “I’ll try to keep you informed as to my location. If she says or does anything unusual, send word to me. I’ll sign myself as Wade. Now, all I have to do is round up the preacher for the wedding.”

  “That won’t be necessary, son. He’s coming here for the wedding at two o’clock. I also invited a few of our closest neighbors. Can’t have a Cardone married without a little show.” Rankin smiled.

  “But I’ve got to pull out right after the wedding,” Lynx argued.

  “To marry in secret could inspire gossip. If anyone tries to hang around past four, I’ll send them on their way. It’d look strange if you ride off in front of them. Anyway, son, you need some rest. Why not leave early Thursday?” Rankin suggested.

  “Valgame Dios! She surely has complicated my life.”

  “If you leave after the wedding, that means no time alone with your new bride. I doubt Calinda will accept such treatment. Besides, it might be wise to work on a son before heading into danger,” Rankin hinted slyly.

  Lynx caught himself before confessing to past work on a son. He suddenly realized this hasty marriage was best for another reason: what if Calinda was already pregnant? He was shocked at having overlooked that possibility. He recalled his fears in the Red Satin Saloon about a shotgun wedding, then chuckled at the private joke.

  “What’s so funny, son?” Rankin asked.

  “Who would have ever thought Lynx Cardone would marry Elliott Braxton’s daughter?” he parried the loaded question.

  “It’s one of the smartest moves you’ve made, son. Looks as if we’ll finally out-smart Brax, ironic justice. You do realize the legal implications in marrying Cal? A wife can’t harm her husband?” When Lynx ruefully nodded, Rankin added, “We’ll make a nice family.” They exchanged smiles, then shared hearty laughter.

  “Well, this future groom is bone-weary. We’ll talk in the morning. Goodnight, Father. Pretty soon, you’ll be sick of having me around daily. You and I do have a way of challenging each other. Maybe we’re too much alike,” Lynx devilishly speculated.

  Like Calinda, Lynx scrubbed quickly and went to bed. Shortly, the entire house was asleep.

  Rankin and Lynx were up and drinking coffee when Salina entered the kitchen. She glanced at both men, pondering their smug grins and cheerful moods. If Rankin was furious with Calinda, he didn’t show it. Salina puzzled over what had taken place in Lampasas and after their return last night. She dreaded what Calinda may have said to the men. Yet, if they were annoyed with her, they didn’t offer any clues.

  “Ready for breakfast?” she asked.

  They both nodded. “Is the senorita up yet?” she inquired, trying to sound casual, turning her back to conceal her expression.

  “Not yet. We’re letting her sleep a while longer. She’s got a busy day ahead,” Rankin hinted, laughing merrily.

  “Busy day ahead?” Salina echoed suggestively.

  “Cal and Lynx are getting married at two,” he stated.

  “Ca…casada?” she stammered the devastating word, whirling around to gape at the insouciant Lynx.

  Rankin declared, “That’s the size of it, Salina. I want you and Charlie to help get the house and food ready. We’ll be having neighbors over for the wedding. See if you can round up some flowers to brighten things up a bit. It isn’t everyday a Cardone gets las@@@soed.”

  “Hoy? Por que? How can we prepare for a boda on such short notice? When did this happen?” Salina questioned, stunned and distressed. Se quieren mucho? No, they could not be in love!

  “We’ll have to make do; Lynx is leaving in the morning,” Rankin nonchalantly stated, grinning mischievously at his son.

  “Que te pasa?” she queried, fearing Calinda was pregnant, or claiming to be to force a marriage with Lynx.

  “Nada. Why wait? I asked and she accepted. I’ll be coming home to stay within the next two months. A wedding ring will hold her put till then,” Lynx humorously alluded.

  Although Lynx was laughing roguishly, Salina knew something was going on between them. She pressed boldly, doubting him, “Que se ha hecho de el astuto solo lobo? You asked her?”

  “Si,” he replied, furtively watching her for revealing clues.

  “No importa. I did not realize you and Calinda were enamorado, tomar casamiento en consideracion,” Salina deviously explained her surprise at their wedding plans, having failed to score with her mocking taunt about the careless snaring of the Lone Wolf.

  “Surprised me, too,” Lynx declared playfully. “Calinda didn’t feel right staying on here. When she packed up and left to find a job, I went after her and forced her to come home. A wedding ring’s the only way to keep her where she belongs. I was getting used to that vixen.”

  Salina realized Lynx hadn’t mentioned love. He made it sound as if he was going to any measure to just to keep her on the ranch. Why? Did it have something to do with this Brax and the past? Did he want to prevent her from locating her father? It was awfully suspicious…

  Feeling she must respond, Salina murmured, “Que le vaya bien.” He would need good luck, but she would never congratulate him.

  “Gracias, Salina, I’ll probably need it to tame that wild filly.”

  Salina set to cooking their breakfast, her mind working steadily and maliciously. There was nothing she could do or say to halt this event. Evidently Calinda had lied about her reason for going to Lampasas. That flame-haired witch had somehow compelled Lynx to marry her. Even if Lynx was bewitched by Calinda, he wouldn’t rush into a confining marriage, unless there was a vital reason. If Salina confessed her lies to Lynx about the letter and trip, Lynx would think she was trying to cause trouble. She dared not do anything which might entice them to fire her. She must stay here to sever this marriage!

  Salina decided on her future path. She would disarm Calinda with feigned resignation to this marriage and gradual friendship. She would keep her eyes and ears open to solve this riddle, then use the information gleaned to destroy Calinda and win Lynx. Time, cunning, and patience were all she needed. No, she hastily concluded; she didn’t have time. A bebe could complicate matters further! How dare that haughty bitch enjoy what Lynx had denied her for years! Jamas!

  While the men were discussing ranch matters after breakfast, Salina eased upstairs to awaken Calinda. She needed to learn what Calinda had said to Lynx. She aroused the sleeping girl, putting on a controlled expression. “You must get up, Calinda; they have planned the wedding for two,” Salina revealed to the sluggish girl. “The neighbors have been invited, and there will be a fiesta.”

  “What?” Calinda shrieked, coming to full awareness. They had altered the plans without even consulting her? “But I thought Lynx and I were riding into town to see the preacher there. A wedding here? Guests? But I don’t have an appropriate dress,” she fretted nervous
ly.

  “Use one of Laura’s,” Salina suggested, wanting to slap her foe. “I must start the cleaning and cooking. First, I wanted to know about your talk with Lynx. What did you say about me?”

  Calinda explained the terrifying incident to Salina, omitting personal parts. Salina in turn related Lynx’s arrival and fury. “I mentioned the letter before thinking. I have never seen him hecho una furia. I told him it might be an old one. He was cierto it was not. Could he figure out who sent it?”

  Calinda asked for a translation, then told her no and why. She apologized for getting Salina involved. “Well, it did prove valuable; Lynx proposed,” Salina remarked.

  “I suppose so, but he was furious with me. I can’t blame him. It was a stupid idea. Thanks for the help, Salina,” Cal said, throwing the covers aside and getting out of bed. She would need to hurry.

  “Why do you marry Lynx, Calinda?” the girl inquired gravely.

  Calinda blushed, then replied, “I’m sorry if you’re upset with me, Salina. I didn’t mean for this to happen. But Lynx is so…irresistible and forceful. I do love him. I know this is awfully sudden, but I don’t have any choice. If I stall him or refuse, he might never ask me again. He’s so proud and obstinate. I just wish there was more time and he was staying home.”

  Salina didn’t press her luck by asking if Calinda was pregnant. She shrugged and sighed. “I should not be shocked. I saw the way you two stared at each other. Knowing Lynx always gets what he desires, I should have realized he wouldn’t release you; he wants you badly.”

  Becoming uneasy with this intimate conversation, Calinda smiled and said, “I’d better get busy. Thanks again, Salina.”

  Salina glared at her back as Calinda stood before the closet trying to select a dress for her wedding. You might marry him today, my cunning foe, but you will not keep him long, Salina mentally plotted.

  When Calinda went downstairs, Lynx and Rankin were out riding. She ate breakfast, sensing she would be too nervous and busy to eat before the wedding. She washed her hair and bathed, then sat on the balcony in the sun to dry the vibrant curls. She had selected a teal blue gown in satin, one of Laura’s prettiest. She spent most of the morning in her room preparing for this major change in her life.

  Lynx didn’t come to Calinda’s room, but that didn’t surprise her. After most of the guests had arrived, Rankin came to fetch her. He stood back and admired her beauty and softness. The rich blue gown complimented her creamy coloring, golden-red hair, and dark emerald eyes. The billowy skirt swayed gently when she moved, sending forth a muted rustle. Her slender waist looked as if he could reach around it with two hands. He complimented her on her choice, knowing whose gown Calinda was wearing, bitterly recalling the last time he had seen it.

  “I hope it’s all right, Rankin. It was the only one which seemed appropriate. You don’t think Lynx will mind, do you?” she fretted.

  “Certainly not. Why would you worry?” Rankin inquired, pondering if Calinda knew something she shouldn’t.

  Calinda lowered her lashes as she told him how displeased and upset Lynx had been the last time she had worn one of Laura’s gowns. She modestly didn’t tell what kind of gown. “I don’t favor her, do I?” she asked, that horror suddenly entering her anxious mind.

  “Not at all, my dear. Lynx favors his mother a great deal: the same eyes and hair, the same expressions. Sometimes when he smiles or laughs, it’s like a small echo or mirror of Laura’s. Maybe that was why he and I had such conflicts after she…was gone. Maybe I saw too much of Laura in our son,” he murmured remorsefully.

  Calinda was warmed by the confession. There was such anguish in his eyes and voice, emotions Rankin rarely exposed. It gave her another insight into the troubled past, especially into the relationship between these two men. Had Lynx mistaken his father’s unconscious resentment as a lack of love and need? Had Rankin unknowingly punished his son for Lynx’s love for Brax? Perhaps Lynx had also blamed Rankin for driving Brax away, perhaps suspecting jealousy as the motive. Had Lynx somehow blamed his father for Laura’s early death? Surely it was tormenting to gaze into a matching face of a lost loved one. How sad they had taken their grief and bitterness out on each other. How tragic to waste so many years and so many emotions. Perhaps she could draw them closer. Evidently time had eased some of those pains and differences, for they appeared to get along fine now. If only Lynx would halt his roaming and come home. If only Rankin would gentle his grip to prevent Lynx from needing solitude and excitement elsewhere. If only they would talk to each other and work out their differences, or wisely accept their similarities.

  Cal grasped his arm and smiled into his face. “But things are better now, Rankin. I’ve seen the love and rapport between you two. Lynx has changed since those wild days; he’s a very special and strong man. When he comes back to stay, I know everything will be wonderful.”

  “You love him very much, don’t you?” Rankin asked.

  Cal flushed, but felt she should admit such an emotion. After all, it was their wedding day. She wondered how Lynx had responded to this same question, for surely his father had broached it. “I’ve never met any man like your son, Rankin. He’s handsome, charming, smart, and brave. He swept me off my feet. I hope our sudden plans didn’t upset you,” she hinted.

  “Not in the least. Surprised me, yes; but I’m delighted, Cal. Lynx and I had a long talk last night and this morning. Before we know it, he’ll be home to stay. Until then, you and I can have fun running this ranch. He did tell you he must leave first thing tomorrow?”

  “Yes,” she replied sadly. “I tried to change his mind, but he wouldn’t listen. Seems your son is a proud and stubborn man.”

  “If there’s one thing I know about my son, he’s a man of his word. Lynx has always been reliable and relentless. If he gives his promise to do something, he’ll fight the demons of hell to keep it. That speaks highly of a man out here, Cal. Lynx made some promises before you came along, now he must keep them. If he didn’t, he wouldn’t be the man you love. Be patient and understanding while he’s gone. He’ll come home as soon as he can; he’ll have a pretty wife to lure him back quickly. You ready to come downstairs?”

  “I’ll be there in a moment. Is everything ready?”

  “I think you’ll be amazed and pleased,” he said, sparking her curiosity.

  After Rankin left her alone, Calinda sat down on the edge of the bed. What was going on between them? Why was Rankin expounding on Lynx’s good traits and defending his departure? Rankin’s sudden change of heart about his son’s behavior inspired speculations. Getting married wasn’t the answer, for Lynx was taking off almost immediately. If they didn’t have guests, he probably would. In Rankin’s eyes and mind, how had Lynx gone from carefree rebel to “reliable” and unquestionably honest and honorable? Until now, Rankin had been arguing and threatening Lynx to come home; now, he was coaxing her to be “patient and understanding.” Evidently Rankin knew where Lynx was heading and why, and he clearly agreed with Lynx’s motives. If Lynx could confide in his father, why not in his wife? She was miffed and disappointed. It was almost as if they were conspiring to keep secrets from her, conspiring to hold her on the ranch. That was ridiculous, she hastily decided. Maybe her jittery nerves were playing tricks on her mind. She must join them before they wondered what was keeping her. As Cal removed the silver cross Lynx had given her, she abruptly realized it matched the one which Salina wore. She stiffened. Instantly, she scolded her jealousy and suspicions, dismissing them.

  When Calinda gracefully walked down the steps, she was amazed and pleased, as Rankin had stated. The house was filled with beautiful and colorful wildflowers. Delicious odors from the kitchen assailed her nose. She could hear laughter and muted conversation coming from outside and the next room. She summoned her courage and entered the room. It was crowded with people. Had they invited everyone nearby?

  Lynx glanced up and grinned. He came forward with agile steps. He caught her cold hands and smile
d into her tense face. He leaned over to kiss her cheek, whispering, “Relax, querida; they aren’t here to devour you. Let’s give ’em a good show of love and happiness.”

  Cal met his gaze and smiled faintly, his last words echoing across her mind. “I’m scared stiff,” she murmured to hide her doubts.

  “Me, too. But we’ve gone too far to back down now,” he teased.

  Several neighbors came over to congratulate them. Calinda smiled and spoke genially, her anxiety seeming natural for a bride. Soon, Rankin announced it was time for the ceremony. The crowd gathered on the veranda as Calinda and Lynx were directed to stand before the preacher. Within a blurred twenty minutes, Lynx was slipping the gold band on her finger again, this time for good.

  As she stared at it, he lifted her chin and kissed her soundly. Cheers went up as they parted. A bright flush greeted Lynx, who chuckled in amusement. “Well, Mrs. Cardone, how about a toast?”

  The party began. There were platters of barbecued beef and pork, fried chicken and baked ham, bowls of fresh beans and peas, stacks of “rowsinears” as they called corn-on-the-cob, fragrant bread, and mounds of creamed potatoes. Besides steaming coffee and tea, stronger spirits were offered in abundance. Afterwards, there were many tempting desserts to choose from, or a slice of wedding cake. Calinda stared at the lovely cake which was Salina’s prized creation.

  The new bride nibbled on the food Lynx placed in her hands or lap. She chatted with neighbors, accepting their compliments or teasing jokes. She carefully sipped very little wine, knowing how long this day might be. With the assistance of her new husband, she looked every inch a happy bride very much in love.