Amelia wasn’t sure when Jed’s face moved near enough for her to feel his hot breath on her cheeks. She closed her eyes and moved her body a little closer to him. She felt his arms tighten around her then his lips touched hers. His mouth was soft—much softer than she’d imagined. She slipped her arms around his neck and though she didn’t intend for it to, every inch of her body begin to surrender.
His kiss deepened and she felt his heart pounding against her chest. His kiss became more passionate and compelled her to respond just as passionately. Nothing like this had ever happened when she’d been kissed before. Of course, she’d never been kissed in this way. It was as if Jed had some magic power and his kiss was special and she was helpless to resist it. As the kiss grew deeper and he was rubbing his hands up and down her back a shot pierced the night and they jerked apart. Jed was instantly pulling his gun from his holster.
“What…” Amelia started to say.
Jed clamped his hand over her mouth. “Stay here and don’t make a sound,” he whispered.
“No. I’m coming with you,” she whispered back.
“Then stay behind me and be quiet. I don’t know what’s happening, but I don’t want to announce our arrival back at camp. Anything could be waiting for us.” He started up the hill with her close behind him.
Amelia tried to be as quiet as Jed, but she couldn’t. The big man moved through the wooded area without stepping on a twig or disturbing a limb. She wondered if it was his Indian blood.
They came in sight of the camp and Jed holstered his gun. “What the hell are you shooting at, Curt?” he demanded in a voice none too friendly.
“A blasted rattlesnake.”
“Oh, no. I hate snakes.” Amelia grabbed Jed’s hand.
“It’s okay, Amelia.” Curt grinned at her. “I didn’t let it get in your bedroll.”
“Do you think there’s another one around here?”
“There’s probably hundreds in the area, ma’am.”
“Is he telling the truth, Jed?” She looked up at him.
“There might be a few, but not hundreds. Relax.”
“How can I relax if there are rattlesnakes in the area?”
Jed chuckled. “There are rattlesnakes all over Wyoming, Amelia.”
“I know. We have them at the ranch, but I don’t sleep with them. Do we have to stay here?”
“Don’t worry. I’ll see to it no snake gets you.” Jed squeezed her hand and gave Curt a look she didn’t understand.
She ignored it and asked, “Are you sure?”
“I wouldn’t lie to you.”
“I think I’ll go check the horses and make sure no snakes have eaten them before we bed down.” Curt nodded to them. “You two get settled in and I’ll be back.”
Jed spread out their bedrolls and insisted Amelia try to go to sleep. “We want you fresh and pretty when we reach Settlers Ridge. I don’t want anyone saying my wife came back from her honeymoon worn out.”
“I thought that’s exactly how you’d want me to look. Wouldn’t it be something you could brag about?”
Jed shook his head and lay down beside her. “It’s for sure the men will be looking us over. Maybe I should let them think I’ve…”
“Hush, Jed. Curt might hear.”
“I’m sure he’s aware of everything we say.”
“Please don’t tell me that.”
He pulled her against him. “All right, if you don’t want him to hear what we’re talking about, I’ll whisper.” He put his mouth close to her ear. “Are you well yet?” She stiffened and he laughed. “Got your attention, didn’t I?”
“Jed, you’re not supposed to ask such things.”
“Why not? We’re married and frankly, I’m ready to get this marriage going in the right direction.”
“I’ll be well soon.”
“How soon?”
“Probably tomorrow.”
“Probably tomorrow or for sure tomorrow?”
She took a deep breath and whispered, “Yes, tomorrow.”
“Good. I was beginning to think I’d have to go see one of the girls at the saloon when we get to Settlers Ridge.”
She turned over and faced him. “You promised you wouldn’t.”
“I know I did. I also know it was on the condition…”
“I know what the condition was.”
“You’re not going to back out are you?”
“No, Jed. I’m not going to back out. I can’t help it if I’m a little frightened.”
“I’m sure you can’t.” He reached up and brushed the loose hair off her cheek. “I guess I’m getting anxious.”
Did she dare tell him she was still scared, but was getting a little anxious, too? Better not, she decided. Instead she cuddled closer to him. “Good night.”
“Good night, Mrs. Wainwright.”
There were several minutes of silence then she whispered, “Jed, do you think there are any other rattlesnakes around?”
He pulled her tighter. “I promised to protect you didn’t I? I’m sure I can handle any old snake who thinks it’s big enough to tackle you.”
* * * *
“Is she asleep?’ Curt asked when Jed walked up to him thirty minutes later.
“Yeah, but no thanks to you. Your snake tale got her keyed up and it was a while before she drifted off.”
“It was the first thing I thought of, but even if it wasn’t the smartest thing to say, I guess she swallowed the story?”
“She did believe you. Now, tell me what actually happened?”
“I was getting ready to throw out my bedroll when a man came sneaking up on foot. Pulled his gun on me and threatened to shoot me if I didn’t tell him where the woman was. I didn’t like that so I shot his pistol out of his hand and threatened to take his head off next time. Made him easy to talk to.”
“What did he say?”
“Told me he came to get the woman you’d married and would split the money with me if I let her go with him. Said her daddy put the word out in Settlers Ridge he’d give any man who could bring his daughter home a thousand dollars in gold.”
“Damn. I knew he wouldn’t like the idea of her marrying me, but I didn’t expect him to put a bounty on my head.”
“I think this gives you a good hint her old man doesn’t approve of you as a son-in-law.”
“You’re so right.”
“What are you going to do about it?”
“Nothing, She’s my wife and she’s going to stay my wife unless she decides she doesn’t want to be.”
“So I guess I’m taking on the responsibility of her, too?”
“Of course. What are partners for?” Jed looked around. “What did you do with the man?”
“Gagged him and tied him to a tree the other side of the horses.”
“I think I better go have a little talk with him. I want to know what’s waiting for me in Settlers Ridge.”
“Go ahead. I’ll roll a smoke and keep an eye on your wife.”
“An eye is all you better keep on her.”
Curt chuckled. “Don’t worry, my friend. I saw how you looked at her when you introduced us in Swanson. She might as well have ‘Jed Wainwright’s woman’ stamped on her forehead.” He chuckled again. “I feel sorry for any man who tries to take her away from you and that includes her daddy.”
Jed didn’t answer as he walked away frowning.
* * * *
It was late the next night when Jed looked inside the closed hotel lobby. Frank was behind the counter with a book spread out before him. Jed knocked on the front door.
Frank Olson’s grin was genuine as he unlocked the door and ushered them in. “Mr. and Mrs. Wainwright, how good to see you. I hope you had a good trip.”
Amelia gave the friendly man a big smile. “It was lovely, Mr. Olson.”
“I’m glad. I guess you want room number four?” He eyed Jed.
“You’re right, Frank.”
“It’s all ready for you. I knew you’d
be back sometime soon and didn’t rent it. Good thing I was going over the books when you got in tonight.”
“Is there anyone else up?”
“Henrietta’s in the kitchen. What do you need?”
“Amelia says she can’t wait to get the grime of the trail off her. Could somebody set up a bath in our room for her?”
“It’s practically on its way. How about you? You want a bath, too?”
“Yep. I’m grimier than she is.”
“I’ll get the water heated and the tubs will be right up. I’ll also bring the things you left here, Mrs. Wainwright.”
“Thank you,” Amelia said.
“The man who left the message last week is taking the horses to the livery. Name’s Curt Allison. He’ll be coming in shortly. Rent him the room next to ours, will you?”
“Sure will, Jed. Reckon he’ll want a bath?”
“You can tell him I recommend it.” He took Amelia’s arm. “By the way, I know it’s almost ten o’clock, but we missed supper. Got anything left in the dining room?”
“I’ll leave the front door open for your friend and go see about something for you. I’m sure it’ll be no trouble.”
“Tell Henrietta we appreciate it.”
When they got in their room, Amelia said, “Look, Jed. The lace coverlet is still on the bed, even though it’s been a week. I’m glad nobody has stayed in this room since our wedding.”
“Me, too. After sleeping on the ground I’m looking forward to a nice soft bed.”
There was a knock on the door.
Jed opened it.
“Here’s your wife’s things, Jed. Henrietta is making some plates and the water will be up as soon as it’s hot. Your friend and the kids are behind me with the tubs.”
“Thanks, Frank.” Jed took the bags and put them in the room. “Amelia, I’m going to step out here in the hall to make sure Curt gets into the right room.”
“Sure.” She was already opening her valise and taking out the dresses to hang in the wardrobe.
Jed eased the door together. “Frank, I know Amelia’s father is trying to stir up trouble for us. If possible, could you keep it quiet about us being back in town? At least for the rest of the night.”
“Nobody will hear a thing from me.”
“Thanks. The hotel in Swanson wasn’t the best and we slept very little on the trail. I’d like one night of rest with my wife before the trouble starts.”
“There’s probably going to be some. Her folks came into town the day you left. Her old man was mad as hell. Mrs. Donahue said all she wanted was for her daughter to be happy. I think she’ll stand behind you two.”
“Good. Amelia will be pleased. She was worried our quick marriage would upset her mother.”
“You may have to fight her daddy for your wife, Jed.”
“I know. I heard he’s offering a reward for her return.”
“You’re not going to let her go back home, are you?”
“Not without me.”
“Take my advice and stay away from there. Old man Donahue is mad enough to put a bullet in your back.”
“Thanks for the warning.”
Olson’s two children appeared with bathtubs and the conversation ended, but Jed knew he’d keep a sharp eye out for Rafe Donahue and anyone who might be connected to him.
Curt came behind them carrying a third tub. “Mr. Olsen said you thought I needed this.”
“Mr. Olsen was right.” He put his hand on the doorknob.
“As you asked, I put Mr. Allison in the adjoining room, Jed.”
“Thanks. I want him to be able to get to us in a hurry if Donahue’s offer of a reward brings any unwanted guests to our door. Otherwise, I expect him to keep the connecting door securely closed.”
“You don’t have to worry. I don’t want to get shot. Especially by my best friend.” Curt went into his room with his bathtub.
* * * *
“Well, my shy little wife, we’ve eaten our supper and now we’ve been sitting in two tubs full of once steaming water for almost an hour and you haven’t had a word to say. What’s wrong?”
She looked at him and her face was crimson. “I’m enjoying the bath.”
“I’d say it was more than that.”
She sighed. “Please don’t tease me. You know I’m nervous.”
“Why? We’ve traveled together, we’ve slept together. What’s so special about bathing together?”
“We’re not bathing together, Jed. You have your tub and I have mine.” She was getting more flustered by the minute. “I think I’m clean.”
“You haven’t washed your hair.”
“Neither have you.”
“That’s easy to take care of.” Jed soaped his head, dunked himself under the water then reappeared. “See. It’s all clean now.”
“I can’t do it as easily. I have more hair to wash.”
“Then, I’ll help you.” He shook his head and put his hands on each side of the tub.
Amelia knew he was going to stand. “No, Jed! You can’t get up. You’re… You’re…”
“I’m what, sugar?”
“Naked,” she whispered.
He laughed out loud. “I usually take my baths naked, don’t you?” He stood.
“Oh!” Amelia wanted to grab her eyes, but she couldn’t. She was fascinated by his perfect male form. He reminded her of one of those men she and her girlfriends had swooned over in boarding school art class, though those men were minus the scars adorning Jed’s body and they were only drawings in a book.
He grinned and stepped out of the tub. Still looking at her, he picked up a linen towel and began to dry. He kept his eyes locked with hers, but he showed no shame or modesty. Only when he felt his member begin to swell, did he wrap the towel around his waist.
Walking over beside her tub, he dropped to his knees. “I’ll help you wash your hair.”
She didn’t argue and Jed put his hand on the back of her neck. He leaned her head back enough to wet her hair, then he lathered it and gently began to rub it with his large hands.
The more he rubbed, the more relaxed Amelia became. It felt good to be pampered. “Close your eyes. I’m going to rinse the soap out now.” She obeyed and he poured a pitcher of warm water over her head. “You have a lot of hair, so I’m going to do it again.”
After the second rinse he wrapped her head in a linen towel. “I think it’s time you got out of the water. You’re going to wrinkle up like an old crone.”
She gasped. “I don’t have any clothes on.”
Jed shook his head and stood. He reached for another towel and held it up in front of him. “I have this ready to wrap around you and I promise not to look.”
Amelia stood and let Jed wrap the towel around her naked body. He assisted her out of the tub, led her to the bed and sat down beside her.
“Let’s see if we can get some of this water out of your hair.”
When it was dry enough to suit her, she reached for her nightgown. Her hand trembled.
“Don’t put that on, Amelia.” His voice was husky, but full of gentleness.
“But…”
“I agreed to go out of the room while you climbed into the tub. I agreed to keep my eyes to myself while you washed and when you got out. Now I’m ready to look at my wife.”
Amelia could barely breathe. She squeezed her eyes together. “I understand.”
“Do you really, Amelia?”
“I think so.” She opened her eyes.
“We’ve been married over a week and the only time we’ve come anywhere near sharing passion is when I kissed you beside the creek. I thought by your reaction you didn’t fear me any longer. Was I wrong?”
“I don’t fear you, Jed. You’ve been nothing, but wonderful.”
“Then what is it?”
“I’m scared about it,” she managed to whisper.
He frowned. “It?”
“You know. Doing it.”
“Do you mean about me
making love to you?”
She nodded.
“Honey, you don’t have to be afraid. What goes on between a man and a woman is beautiful and natural.”
“I don’t know about that. I’ve heard a man goes crazy and he doesn’t care how much he hurts you.” She looked at him with water pooling in her eyes.
“Oh, Amelia. Somebody has told you a pack of lies, and I’m going to prove it to you.”
“How?”
“Like this.” Jed took her in his arms and began to kiss her.
It wasn’t long until Amanda realized he wasn’t crazy and he didn’t seem to be only concerned with his pleasure. The kisses Jed spread across her face and on the tips of her ears felt like brushes of butterfly wings.
“I’m going to remove your towel, sweetheart,” Jed said against her lips.
Amelia moaned, but didn’t resist when the towel fell from her body to the floor. Jed reached down and scooped her into his lap. His lips moved down her throat and landed on her shoulder. She felt as if she was on fire as his mouth moved back to her lips. She opened her mouth and his tongue plunged into the depths. With their lips locked and her in his arms, Jed stood and gently placed her on the turned down bed. Still kissing her, he threw his towel aside and stretched out beside her.
She stiffened and he whispered, “Still scared?”
“A little.”
“Don’t be afraid, Amelia.”
She tensed and he kissed her deeply. Her body relaxed and he mumbled, “This will hurt for only a few seconds,” he whispered. “It’ll never hurt again.”
As he entered her, there was a sharp pain and she let out a little cry.
She thought she heard him say the word, “mine,” but she wasn’t sure. In a few seconds the pain was gone and she lifted her hips to bring him closer.
When she thought she couldn’t stand any more, she slipped over the edge and felt his warm seed fill her. He then collapsed on her chest, his body jerking. In minutes he rolled over and pulled her with him. His breath was coming in rasps and his eyes were closed.
“Oh, Amelia,” he gasped, “I’m sorry if I hurt you. It’ll be better next time.”
Amelia's Marriage Page 8
