The Courageous Brides Collection

by Johnnie Alexander, Michelle Griep, Eileen Key, Debby Lee, Rose Allen McCauley, Donita Kathleen Paul, Jennifer Uhlarik, Jenness Walker, Renee Yancy

  The boy shrugged. “Straight out to Mr. McKenzie.”

  Ronnie saluted. “Straight out.” A giggle burst from her lips. The boy rolled his eyes and turned toward camp.

  She rode a bit farther, and Seth’s silhouette showed through the dust on the horizon. Ronnie fought the urge to spur her mount and reach him faster. His head jerked up when he caught sight of her.

  “What in the world?” His voice was tinged in anger.

  A sinking feeling began in Ronnie’s middle. She cleared her throat. “Fine night for a short ride, Boss.” She gave a half-hearted smile.

  Seth turned to walk Ranger beside her. “Why are you out here?” His words were clipped. Short. Tense.

  Ronnie eyed him. His mouth set in a grim line and creases lined his forehead. “Wanted to get out of camp for a bit.” She settled her shaking hands on the saddle horn. “Wally told me you were on drag—”

  “Wally.” Seth spit out the boy’s name. “He’s a never-ceasing source of trouble.”

  “Now don’t go getting on to him. I was eager to come, and he sent Mike with me…well, most of the way.”

  Seth pinched the bridge of his nose then gazed at her. Moonlight filtered through the copse of trees. Cows lumbered by, an occasional grunt or moo answered by another. Ronnie turned to watch the herd.

  “I thought maybe we could visit.” She sighed. “Should’ve known you’d be too tired to talk.” She almost added too stubborn but bit her lip before the words escaped.

  Ranger began to walk, and the brown horse set in beside him. Ronnie’s knee grazed Seth’s. She tugged the reins to the right. Seth continued to frown.

  Minutes later he said, “I am glad to see you.” His voice softened, and he tugged his hat lower.

  A flood of emotions rose inside Ronnie. Her cheeks flamed. She fussed with the edge of her skirt, smiling at the ground.

  Seth’s heartbeat slowed as they rode. This woman’s unpredictable actions could cause any manner of trouble. If she’d just cook and ride in a wagon and be a plain, ordinary—

  He paused. Nothing about the woman beside him was plain or ordinary. She wasn’t a striking beauty, but she was pretty. Tall, big eyes, a mane of hair. He shivered. Riding alongside him. Veronica Fergus had chosen to ride out to see him. He stifled a chuckle.

  “Seems you’re making good time today.”

  “Uh-huh.” Seth watched a white-face pass. He’d need to tell Ernie he’d spotted one.

  “Supper is ready. Bet you’ll be glad for the last of these to straggle in.” She pointed to the campfire glowing in the distance. “Almost there.”

  “Yep.” Wally had best be riding when he arrived or he might shake the boy. Allowing Ronnie to ride alone.

  “I made a special sweet treat for everyone.”

  “How nice.”

  Ronnie leaned toward him and waved a hand. “Never mind. I thought we might have a discussion of some kind. Talk about—I don’t know. Cows or water or grass or sky. But all you have to say is uh-huh.” She kicked the brown horse in the side and began to lope. “I can get that from Rusty.”

  The ever-present coil of hair bounced across her shoulders as she rode away, and emptiness descended. Ronnie’s presence had filled a void Seth hadn’t known existed. What would he do with these feelings?

  Get rid of them, McKenzie. No good can come of thinking on her. Stick to cows. He sighed and shrugged. “Least I know about them. Can’t ever figure a woman.” Especially the beauty who dismounted by the chuck wagon, jerking her skirts free and sashaying fireside, greeting each cowboy. “Lord, keep her safe till I can get her home.”

  Seth loped to the last straggler and angled Ranger behind him. “Let’s go, buddy. I’m tired and hungry.”

  And ready to talk.

  Journal

  Seven or eight miles. Water scarce, grass thin. Won’t stay long. Could push through tonight, but staying put. Loss report worrisome. Will tighten watch.

  And watch over her closer.

  Chapter Twelve

  Bone-weary, Ronnie clambered from the chuck wagon to help Rusty. She’d kept to herself the last few days, aggravated with Seth and too tired to bandy with the boys. They’d enjoyed their sweet treat and watched every night to see what else she might dish out. For the moment, her creativity was exhausted.

  She’d changed to her second dress the day before yesterday, just in time to spill molasses on the hem. Despite scrubbing, she continued to be a dust magnet. But then dust and dirt were constant companions. Trail driving certainly wasn’t an easy way to travel.

  “But it’s a free trip, girl.” She shook her skirt.

  Rusty glanced at her. “Watch for ants. They’d love to latch on and slurp molasses.” He chuckled.

  Ronnie shot him a sharp look. “Thanks for the advice.” She surveyed the nearby grass. “Think I’ll change.” She clambered up the side of the wagon and plopped on her pallet. With much squirming and ducking beneath the canvas, she changed dresses. She would soak the ruined one all day. Coiling her braid under her bonnet, she flung a leg over the side of the wagon and searched for a slat with her toe.

  “Good morning.”

  Ronnie jerked upright and grabbed for the canvas cover. Her fingers grazed the fabric, but she didn’t catch a grip. She felt the momentum as she toppled and closed her eyes to wait for the earth to meet her backside once again. Instead, strong arms encircled her waist and lowered her to the ground. Seth. Of course, it was Seth witnessing her graceless movements. A flash of Aunt Susan’s pinched mouth flickered through Ronnie’s memory. She laughed. “Thank you, Mr. McKenzie.” She settled her skirts and straightened her bonnet.

  “What’s funny?” He leaned in a bit closer and peered under the edge of her bonnet, one hand on her elbow.

  Ronnie surveyed his eyes. What color would they be in this morning light? Hazel. She nodded. She liked them best that color. His chin whiskers had grown during the ride but didn’t quite cover the dimples that only showed when he grinned…like now. She shrugged.

  “I’m a source of amusement to many as clumsy as I am.” His touch caused her heart to race and her hands to tremble. She shrugged away. She tipped her head and looked at him, determined to still her mind enough to focus on a conversation. “I appreciate your kindness. Thank you.” She waited a moment. The silence stretched as they stared at each other. She cleared her throat. “Did you need me for any reason?”

  “No, no.” He poked fingers into his pockets. “Just happened to be in the right place at the right time.” He nodded toward the end of the wagon. “Reckon I’ll get me some coffee.” He toed the dirt with his right boot. “Want to join me?”

  Ronnie was sure the whole camp could hear her heart hammer against her ribs. Blood surged into her cheeks and ears, and her fingers twitched against her skirt. She stared at Seth. Dirt had filled the tiny creases by his eyes. Like her, he could use a dip in a river.

  “Will we make it to water soon?” She placed a hand on the wagon to steady herself. Staring at him was making her dizzy.

  “Uh-huh.” His mouth split into a wide grin. “By morning, you and Rusty will set up camp by the river. It’s low where we will cross,” he rubbed his cheek, “but deep enough to wash up if you so desire.”

  “Oh, I so desire.” She laughed. “This frock is the only one not spoiled by something to draw ants.” She ran her hand over the braid hanging from her bonnet. “And let’s not discuss hair.” She sighed. “I’m quite a mess, I’m sure. Just glad Rusty didn’t include a mirror in my accommodations, lest I never leave the wagon.”

  Seth tweaked her nose, and she gasped. Her eyes widened, and her stomach coiled in a knot.

  “Veronica Fergus”—he leaned forward, his voice husky—“you are a vision on this drive.”

  Surely a blood vessel would burst in her head. Nothing could contain this heat and confusion without splitting open. A shiver ran up her spine. Tears sprang into her eyes. The first sincere compliment she’d ever received and she was a dir
t-encased mess. “Thank you,” she whispered. With a tug on her bonnet, she reached out and strung her arm through the crook of his elbow. “Shall we have coffee?”

  Whatever possessed him to ask her to join him for coffee? There was no café in sight, no wrought-iron chair to pull out for her. Only a ring of rocks around a blazing campfire. And lounging dirty men alongside. Men who watched his every move. They’d notice Ronnie and Seth with their heads together. And laugh.

  A muscle worked in his jaw. Well, let them laugh. For the first time he’d met a woman who understood his job. Shoot. She’d even shared in the ride. He tugged her arm a bit tighter to his side as they walked the fifteen or so feet to a boulder. He bent and brushed away some dirt and leaves. “Sit here. I’ll grab us a cup.”

  He turned but could see from the corner of his eye she primped, fluffing her skirt, brushing hair under her bonnet, wiping her face with a hanky. A smile crept up his cheek. Ronnie seemed nervous.

  “Boss, you wantin’ coffee for her, too?” Rusty lifted a brow and held up the coffeepot.

  Seth wondered how long he’d been rooted to the spot watching her. And how many boys noticed. “If it’s not too much trouble.” Rusty’s eyes widened at his sharp tone. Seth sighed as coffee filled the cups. “Thank you, Cookie. Miss Ronnie and I appreciate the axle grease.”

  “No problem, Boss.” Rusty wheeled on a boot heel and stomped to the wagon.

  Great. Now he’d aggravated the cook. Over her. That’s why he should only focus on the cows. On the drive. Not pay attention to a dark-haired vision of loveliness. He snorted. Where had that thought come from? Vision? A chuckle worked its way up his chest. He reached Ronnie and handed her a cup. “Seems you’ve got a break from work. Me, too.” He dropped to the ground beside her feet.

  “Yes. Only dishes waiting for me.” She sipped the brew. “You’re taking it easy. That’s a change.”

  “Resting before the river tomorrow. It’s not much to cross, but it takes concentration.” Which I desperately lack right now. “You could ride in the supply wagon and cross with us, if you’d rather. Rusty will be all right on his own.”

  Ronnie shoved her bonnet off, and curls trickled across her cheeks. “I’d love that. It’s been a long while since I’ve watched a herd cross.” She leaned forward, elbows on her knees, and her eyes widened. “Would you mind if I cow punched?” She tipped her head. “Please?”

  Seth closed his eyes against the appeal. But having her horseback beside him would keep her close, and he could assure her safety more so than in a wagon.

  “I suppose.” He shoved a leg out straight, his boot heel digging a furrow in the dirt. “But you’re following Ernie’s signals and riding the horse I choose.” He swallowed bitter brew. “Trey is mounted again, so the brown is out.” He paused and considered the string of horses. “Appaloosa is strong should there be the least bit of current. Don’t expect any, but don’t know what rains have been upstream.”

  Her delighted laugh stirred his insides. “Thank you, thank you.” She patted his shoulder. “I will follow directions to the letter. Promise.” She giggled. “I can’t wait till morning.”

  “What’s waiting for you when you get to your homestead?” Seth’s question was out before he could catch it.

  Ronnie’s face fell. “I don’t know.”

  Seth drew a hand across his mouth. He’d stolen her joy with one sentence. He could kick himself. He’d given her a chance to ride then ripped a hole in her heart. He watched her face.

  Ronnie sighed. “Had a neighbor helping Daddy work our place, and I hope he’s still around.” She dumped the remainder of her drink. “Expect I will have a lot of work ahead of me. But it’s what I love.” She smiled down at him, a curl tickling the edge of her lip. “Ranching is in my blood.” She trailed a finger up and grasped the curl, winding it around and around her finger. “I do thank you kindly for letting me ride along with you. I’m ever so grateful.” She lowered her eyes, the lashes fluttering. “I’m not sure how I would’ve gotten home—” Her voice grew tight.

  “Glad to be of service, ma’am.” Seth almost laughed at his formal words. How could he explain to her that her very presence had taken the monotony out of this trip. “Look forward to settling you in Fort Worth.”

  “Hello in the camp.” A strong voice broke the moment. “Friendly riders approaching.”

  Rusty lifted the coffeepot. “Arbuckle waiting.”

  Seth shot to his feet, one hand extended. “Seth McKenzie.” The oldest man gripped his hand.

  “Sheriff Henley. Looking for three outlaws.” His eyes roved the area. “Seen any strangers?”

  Ernie coughed, and Seth caught his worried look. The rustlers. His voice caught in his throat. “Not yet.” He motioned toward the chuck-wagon tailgate. “Join us, and tell me more.”

  Chapter Thirteen

  Ronnie watched the three other riders dismount and stride into camp. The older man and Seth had their heads together, and Seth’s serious countenance gave her pause. Worry creased his brow. She trailed in their direction, an ear attuned to the conversation.

  “Been searching for this group nigh on to a week now. Three riders.” He spit out a stream of tobacco. Ronnie wrinkled her nose.

  “We’ve lost some cows. Reckon they’re responsible?” Seth looped his fingers in his belt.

  “Could be. Stole horses from one ranch and robbed a wagon full of travelers last week. They’re the ones reported it.” The sheriff sighed. “And it’s my county.” He grabbed the plate Rusty handed him and nodded his thanks. “Been in the saddle long enough.”

  “We plan on crossing the river tomorrow. You going our way?”

  Ronnie’s heart thudded against her chest. Bandits and outlaws going in the same direction they were traveling? A ripple of fear raced through her. Danger came in all forms out here.

  The sheriff and his three men settled on the ground, shoveling in beans and slurping coffee. Ronnie reached for the dishpan and slid it to the edge of the wagon platform, still listening. A sweaty rider lifted his eyes and grinned at her. Ronnie flushed and turned back to her work. Wouldn’t be seemly to look at the man. Sorry, Aunt Susan. Not a lady yet.

  “Suppose we best head out now before we lose daylight completely and before your herd stomps out any prints.” The sheriff leaned back on one elbow and his eyes drifted toward her. “Don’t take these men lightly, McKenzie. Especially with your wife along.”

  Ronnie bit her tongue to keep from blurting out her identity. Wife, indeed. She sprinkled the shaved soap flakes in the water. Would be nice, though. Heat burned her cheeks. In a few days she’d be out of this world and at home. Alone. Again. Sadness stabbed her middle. No Seth in sight. Just alone.

  “Miss Fergus?”

  Ronnie jolted from her reverie at the sound of Seth’s voice.

  “Would you join us for a moment?” Seth tipped his head as she drew closer. “This is Sheriff Henley.” His eyes twinkled. “Though I expect you know that by now.” His lips twitched. “There’s reports of rough men in the area.”

  “Ma’am.” The sheriff ducked his head in greeting. “I reckon you better stick close to camp. Close to riders at all times. I’m not sure what these men are capable of.” His brow furrowed. “And we don’t want to find out.”

  “I understand completely, sir.” Ronnie gave a half curtsy. “Thank you for the warning.” She slipped away and rounded the back of the wagon close to the string of horses and whoever was on guard.

  Trey leaned against the wheel, his bandaged arm tight against his chest. “Miss Ronnie, I ain’t letting you out of my sight after what you done for me.” The boy’s mouth drew in a grim line. “Don’t you worry. Nothing happening to you on my watch.”

  Ronnie gripped his good elbow and gave a little shake. “I’m not worried.” She glanced at Wally guarding the horses. “I’ve never felt safer in my life with my friends nearby.”

  Trey blushed. “Glad you’re still thinking me a friend.” He shrugged
and stared at the ground. “Best you know, with a ma and sisters, I understand your need to creep away a time or two every day. But you call one of us to stand watch even then.”

  Ronnie’s eyes widened, and she stifled a laugh. This young man did understand a woman’s needs. She drew him in a one-sided hug. “Trey, your thoughtfulness and kindness will make you a fine husband one day. Thank you.” She shoved him gently aside. “Right now I need flour from the store wagon.”

  She took two steps and realized the boy shadowed her. Trey was proving true to his word.

  Seth watched the posse lope away from camp. He gnawed on the inside of his cheek. Just what he needed as tired as he was. Something else to guard against. He glanced back and nodded at Ernie.

  “Boss.” The wiry cowboy tipped his hat back. “I’ll talk to the boys. We’ll draw the herd in tighter. River crossing might be dicey, but we can watch.” He scratched his chin. “You thinking we need to arm the waddies?”

  Seth drew in a deep breath and let it out slowly. Cowboys and guns. How many accidents had he seen with that combination? Stampedes, wounded legs, downed horses. He seldom let anyone carry, but in this situation …

  He nodded. “Choose carefully.”

  Ernie chuckled. “I understand.” He pointed his chin at Rusty. “He’s tucked his shotgun under the seat. I’ll get him to pull it out. Don’t want to scare Miss Ronnie, though.”

  “She won’t be scared. She’s ranch tough.” He smiled at the thought. “She’s riding with us, too. Grab her gear and saddle the Appaloosa.”

  Ernie strode away. Seth looked around for Ronnie and spied her skirts at the edge of the wagon out of sight of camp. Fury rose in his chest. Had she not heard the warning? He stomped toward her.

  “Thank you, Trey.” Her laughter floated in the air. “I appreciate your kindness.” He saw her wave at Wally. “And you, too, big guy.”

  His shoulders drooped in relief. The boys kept watch. He stopped in his tracks. But they weren’t armed. Should they be? He lifted his hat and ran his fingers through his hair. Ernie’s decision, he remembered. Ernie knew the boys best.