Western Seduction (The Seduction Series Book 2)

by Brenda Jernigan

  Brooke had given her a faint smile. “I was remembering Jackson. He was such a special and extraordinary man.”

  “And a good uncle,” Jocelyn added.

  “As for Jeffries,” Brooke said, “I’ve not seen him since breakfast. He told me that he had to make preparations for our travel to New Orleans.”

  “Wasn’t it grand of Mr. Jeffries to accompany us from England?” Jocelyn turned and propped her arms on the rail. “I’m not sure any of us would have known what to do. We would probably still be standing on the docks in London, watching the ship sail away without us.”

  “Now now,” Brooke countered. “Somehow, we would have found the correct ship. However, it was Jackson’s instructions that Mr. Jeffries would accompany us, so he had no choice. Jeffries told me I had inherited a plantation, and we were provided enough money for travel. And, of course, each of you were left a thousand pounds to help get started. I believe Jackson was hoping we’d all go to Moss Grove. Evidently, he didn’t know just how independent his nieces are.” Brooke smiled. “But for some strange reason, Jeffries was instructed not to read the entire will until we reached Moss Grove Plantation.”

  “’Tis a bit odd,” Shannon said.

  “I thought so, too,” Brooke agreed. “The only reason I can come up with is that it will be easier for me if Jeffries introduces me to the household staff, and to be truthful, I’m glad we have him along.

  “America is a strange country I’ve only read about. I’d be completely lost without him. However,” Brooke said with a saucy smile, “I have studied books on the planting of cotton so that I’ll know something about living on a plantation.”

  “I agree.” Shannon nodded. “The mon has been verra helpful wi’ makin’ arrangements fer my trip.” Her face lit up with a smile. “Just think, I’m goin’ tae be a governess fer two bairns. From their descriptions, they sound adorable.”

  Brooke looked at Shannon with a look of amused wonder. “Besides being a child yourself, what do you know about children?”

  “Verra little,” Shannon admitted and then smiled. “I ken if I can handle men and their childish ways, then the bairns wull only be smaller, therefore easier tae handle.”

  Everyone laughed, enjoying each other’s company as they usually did. However, Shannon felt a twinge of sadness, knowing that their time together was slipping away.

  “If you ask me, it sounds as if you’re going out into the wilderness,” Jocelyn said to Shannon.

  “Aye, Texas wull be verra different, but different is what I want,” she said with a slight smile. “I want adventure and tae see all those cowboys close up.”

  A loud thump made all three women flinch and grab for the rail as the ship bumped, then settled next to the wooden platform. They peered over the railing, witnessing the dock spring to life with crewmembers racing along the platform, grabbing the ropes to tie off the ship, and shouting instructions to the other shipmates.

  The streets leading up to the pier were filled with wooden pier drays, wagons and fruit vendors, each hawking their wares for money. Wagons lined up waiting for the ship’s cargo to be offloaded. And there were a multitude of carriages waiting for disembarking passengers.

  “Do you have your trunk packed?” Brooke asked.

  Both women nodded.

  “In that case I had better go and get my reticule,” Brooke said, turning away from the rail. “I’ll meet both of you on the dock.”

  Slipping her arm through Jocelyn’s, they walked down the gangplank to where Mr. Jeffries stood. He had secured a carriage for Brooke and a hack for Shannon and Jocelyn, and he was presently overseeing the loading of their trunks on top of the carriage. Jeffries wasn’t a tall man, but he was a couple of inches taller than Brooke. His hair, what there was of it, was gray. He had a bald spot on the very top and bushy hair around the sides. As always, he was dressed in his gray vest and white shirt.

  “Miss Shannon and Miss Jocelyn, he acknowledged as Brooke joined them. “I have secured hotel rooms for you at the Block House and have established accounts for both of you at the First National Bank in New York, so funds will be available for you to draw upon.”

  “How did the money get there?” Brooke asked.

  “His Grace had me come to America before his death and make arrangements. I believe he overheard your conversations of wanting to come to America.

  “Now, I’ll leave you to your goodbyes. Do remember I’ll be in this country for a good six months, so if you need me send a wire to Moss Grove, Brooke will know how to get in touch with me.”

  Shannon and Jocelyn smiled their thanks, then each of them gave him a hug.

  “Hear, hear. We’ll have none of that,” Jeffries blustered. “It’s my job, after all.”

  The women wrapped their arms around Brooke, and she hugged them back, fiercely holding them to her heart. Shannon knew they were the only family that Brooke had.

  “’Tis only goodbye for a wee bit,” Shannon whispered. She managed a choked and desperate laugh, tears sliding down her cheeks. “Dinna make me cry. Let’s promise that we’ll meet in one year at Moss Grove.”

  “That’s an excellent idea,” Jocelyn agreed as she brushed the hot, salt tears from her cheeks.

  Brooke attempted to give them a brave smile, but her teary eyes betrayed her, as well. “Do you both promise to come? No excuses?”

  “We promise.”

  “Good,” Brooke said, nodding with finality. “And you must write often so I’ll know how both of you are doing. I promise I’ll do the same.”

  Jocelyn nodded. “Then it’s time for us to go.”

  Since there was nothing left to say, the two women climbed into the hack. “You’re going to miss my nagging,” Brooke called to them, her voice cracking slightly.

  Shannon stretched her arms over her head, then she folded back the sheet and finally opened her eyes. Her pleasant memories of her sisters had cheered her up, but they faded away with the morning light. Goodness, it seemed like yesterday she’d stood on that ship, but then in the same sense, it also seemed long ago as she was in a different part of the country. Nothing like the sea and the hustle and bustle of the docks.

  It was almost as if her sisters were her dream life. She missed them, but she did not regret seeking her own adventure. Shannon didn’t know Brooke’s address but she would definitely write to Jocelyn.

  Of course, she could be heading back to Jocelyn if things didn’t go well this morning with Luke. That thought made Shannon very uneasy. She let out a small sigh as she threw back the covers.

  Well, she wasn’t going to sit in her room and cower. It wasn’t in her nature now that she’d left her da. She never wanted to be frightened again.

  She would dress and then ask to speak with Luke first thing this morning. Moving to her wardrobe, she couldn’t help smiling at her ball gowns, the ones that would never see the light of day out here. She really didn’t miss the balls she’d attended in England because she had always felt like she was on display, waiting on a wealthy suitor. That was indeed another life. She doubted that anyone around here knew what a ball was.

  Shannon chose a blue, light-weight gown. It had a simple-fitted bodice that opened up the front with tiny pearl buttons and a simple velvet collar.

  After laying the dress on the bed she went to the washstand and poured water into the basin. She washed her face then picked up her hairbrush and began to remove the tangles from her hair. One of the things she liked about the west is that she didn’t have to have her hair fixed every day. She could wear it loose and tied back with a ribbon.

  She slipped the dress over her head letting it fall down over her petticoat. She didn’t wear as many petticoats as she used to because they seemed much too impractical for her everyday life now.

  Brushing her hands over her dress to smooth out the few wrinkles, she gave one last look in the mirror, straightened her hair ribbon, then nodded her approval. She wanted to find Luke as soon as possible to get this over and done wi
th. She didn’t like uncertainty.

  Shannon didn’t have to go far. She collided with Luke just outside her door. Had he been standing there preparing to knock on the door?

  “Ouch.” Shannon took a step back. “Just the person I wanted tae see. I’d like tae speak with ye this mornin’.”

  “What a coincidence,” Luke said. “I want to talk to you, also. Let’s go to my office.”

  Shannon followed him down the hallway. A cordial greeting would have been nice. Like “good morning how are you”? Any gentleman would have done so. However, she’d already learned she wasn’t dealing with a gentleman. She was dealing with a cowboy who was a puzzle to her.

  Once they entered Luke’s office, which was two doors down from his bedroom, he said, “Have a seat.”

  She sat in a chair facing the desk while he closed the door. This couldn’t be good, she thought with a small flutter in her stomach.

  “I think we need to discuss last night,” Luke said as he turned and leaned back on his desk.

  Nothing like getting straight to the point, Shannon thought. “Would ye like me tae pack?”

  For just a moment, Luke knew he must appear stunned because he was astonished by his own behavior, but he hadn’t realized that he’d upset Shannon so much she wanted to leave. “I didn’t mean to upset you.” His dark brows slanted in a frown. “I just lost control . . . something that shouldn’t have happened. I’m sorry.”

  “I’m not upset, nor am I sorry we kissed,” she admitted. She lifted her chin, meeting his gaze streight on. “However, I am disappointed that ye’re sorry.”

  Luke rubbed his chin. There was something about Shannon that made her more interesting and intriguing each time he saw her. And he wasn’t sure what to do about it. For now he wanted to do the right thing, even if it killed him.

  “I thought I had upset you.”

  “Nay.”

  He gave her a very puzzled look, and for the first time he realized he truly liked Shannon. “We probably shouldn’t be doing . . . well, you know, again.” She didn’t look convinced. But she was young and naive, and he was older and wiser and knew better. “Now . . .” He leaned on the desk and folded his arms. “I’m going to be leaving for a little while, and I’ve decided that I want you to stay.”

  She couldn’t believe he had said she could stay. The one thing she’d wanted to hear. But she didn’t expect Luke to be leaving, and she was astonished at how he could brush over their kiss. Evidently, it didn’t mean as much to him as it had to her. “You’re leaving?”

  “I’m riding with Travis to see what I can do for this uprising. As you may or may not know, Texas is trying to become independent from Mexico, and I want to do my part. The next battle is close to the ranch and I want to help out.”

  “I dinna know. Sounds dangerous.”

  Luke shoved to his feet. “It could be but I’ll be all right. However, I need to know that my children will be looked after,” he said moving to stand in front of her. “And I think you’re the best person for the job.” He offered her a hand.

  Shannon smiled and placed her hand in his and stood. “Thank ye,” she murmured. She stood so close that if she leaned in she could kiss him again, and don’t think that wasn’t on her mind. Of course, Luke had made it clear their first kiss had been a mistake.

  He reached out and touched her face with a gentle caress, and then he straightened and started for the door. “I thought a ride into Cottonwood for supplies would be wise. Would you like to go?”

  “I’d love too. Maybe, I can see Emma and Thelma.”

  Luke swung back with a frown. “I’m sure you will, but why you want to is beyond me. I’ll be ready to go in thirty minutes.”

  “I’ll be with ye by then. I want tae write a letter tae my cousin who is probably verra worried about me. I can mail it in town.”

  “Very well,” Luke said.

  Shannon hurried to her room and pulled out some stiff cream-colored paper, a quill and a bottle of ink. She sat down and began to compose her letter.

  Dear Jocelyn,

  I’m sorry I’ve not written sooner, but the children were a handful when I first arrived. Wild would probably be the best word to describe them.

  Things are finally starting to settle down.

  Luke is the cowboy I want. He is everything I’d dreamed he’d be. But--and that is a big but--he’s still in love with his dead wife.

  I’m not sure if I can overcome the problem. He is, however, starting to show a little interest in me, so I’m pleased. Any advice on how to handle this matter would be most appreciated. Luke wasn’t very happy that I lied about my age, but he’s not sending me away like he threatened to do when I first arrived, so I’m making progress no matter how slow.

  Luke does have a fine brother if you’re interested. I think the west could appeal to you.

  Can you send me several children’s readers? The children need simple books, and as I’m in the middle of nowhere they are hard to come by. And most important, how are you doing?

  Have you found work? I hope by now you have heard from Brooke. Give her my address and write soon.

  I miss you both and would love to see you.

  Love, Shannon

  Shannon sprinkled sand on the ink. After grabbing her reticule, she tapped the letter on the desk to remove the sand. Folding the letter she slipped it into the envelope, hoping that she’d hear from her sister soon. She felt better after writing Jocelyn.

  Grabbing her cream-colored shawl, she slipped the letter into her pocket and headed for the door. The thought of seeing her traveling mates, Emma and Thelma would be a real treat since they never had company out here. However, it seemed Luke was not too fond of the outspoken sisters. And she wondered why. Perhaps, she’d find out once they reached town.

  Chapter 9

  The midmorning sun was bright and the air crisp.

  Apparently, they had had their first frost last night, so Shannon was glad to have her heavy wrap as she rushed outside to find the buckboard ready.

  Luke, Travis and the children stood beside the wagon along with a couple of brown, chestnut saddle horses. The children wore heavy coats and their cheeks were tinged a lovely shade of pink.

  “Appears everyone is waitin’ fer me,” Shannon said as she slowed her footsteps, remembering that ladies shouldn’t run.

  “Never did mind waiting for a pretty lady,” Travis said smoothly, shoving away from the wagon and gathering his mount’s reins.

  Shannon smiled at the compliment, keenly aware of Luke’s scrutiny as well as the children. As a matter of fact, the children looked as if they had been sucking on lemons.

  “And what seems tae be troublin’ ye two?”

  “Pa said we have to stay with you,” Molly pouted.

  Shannon gave them a knowing nod. She’d expected that they wouldn’t like the idea of their father leaving them. “I'm sure he explained...” She exchanged a subtle look with Luke,”...that he needs tae be ridin' out with yer uncle. And I'm also sure ye dinna want him tae feel bad aboot that?”

  “W--Well no,” Molly said, casting her gaze down. “But we'll be staying with you.”

  “And the problem with that bein’?”

  “You’re mean.”

  “Am I now?” Shannon chuckled and crossed her arms. “Only when the two of ye force me tae be, and the word is strict, not mean. Therefore as long as ye both behave, I dinna see that ye huv a problem.”

  By the expression on their faces the children couldn't think of a reply, so they solemnly regarded their father who seemed to be trying to stifle a grin. Were they hoping for contradiction or confirmation? Didn’t matter, Shannon supposed.

  Luke took Shannon’s hand and guided her close to the wagon. “Climb up next to Wilson, and we'll ride along with you,” Luke instructed, helping her onto the wagon.

  Molly followed, seating herself next to Toby in the back of the wagon. Once they were settled Wilson chucked his tongue to the horses and they amble
d forward.

  The ride into town was actually a refreshing change of pace. It might be a cold day, but with the sun shining brightly, she barely noticed the cool air. Scotland was cold, but Texas was merely cool. This really was a desolate land yet in an odd sort of way beautiful, for it held the promise of what could be. The cluster of trees here and there added color to the vast brown landscape.

  When she had her fill of the scenery, she began watching Luke. He and Travis rode just ahead of the wagon beside the horses. Luke was such a commanding figure. Oh, how she would love to be held in his strong arms and see love in his eyes. But Shannon knew that wouldn't happen overnight. At least Luke hadn't sent her away. She couldn’t help thinking that was a small start, and after last night, she did think he was beginning to feel something for her.

  As they entered Cottonwood, Shannon snapped out of her musings. The frontier town wasn’t like any of the cities she knew in England. To start with, it was very small. After spending a month at the ranch, even tiny Cottonwood was a welcome sight, and she would get to see her friends, Thelma and Emma. The wagon lumbered down the dirt street. They passed the undertaker, the telegraph office and the boardinghouse where she and Luke had eaten dinner.

  Across the street, the dry goods store was a clapboard building with a sloping tin roof which covered the boardwalk out front. There were two hitching posts along with a watering trough for the horses. At the top of the building sat a big white sign that read –- Miller’s Dry Goods. If we don’t have it . . . you don’t need it.

  The buckboard stopped in front of the store, and everyone scrambled out of the wagon and followed Luke. A bell tinkled over head when the door opened. They stepped inside. Thelma stood behind the cash register tallying up a stack of receipts while Emma dusted shelves beneath the front window.

  The store was crammed full of just about everything, Shannon thought, like the sign said. It had a cozy feel and a variety of merchandise from jars of candy to barrels of nails. There were bolts of colorful fabric, a pickle barrel and picks and shovels.