“What do you plan to change it to?”
“When we made up our minds to buy a ranch, we decided the name would be the Circle 2. It represents the two of us in business together.”
“I like it.”
“I’m glad you like it, because we’ve already registered the brand and had irons made.” His eyes twinkled when he looked at her. “For the cows with the Lawson brand, I guess we could say it stands for love.”
She shook her head at him. “As if love had anything to do with it.” He only lifted an eyebrow and she added, “It sounds like you and Curt have made up your minds to buy the place.”
“Did you like the house?”
“I’d want to do some redecorating, but I like the arrangement of the rooms. And I think the main room is special.”
“Does it have a nice bedroom for us?”
She laughed. “Jed, you’re incorrigible. You would think of the bedroom instead of asking if it has a nice working kitchen.”
“We can always cook over an open fire, but making love requires a special place of its own, and I discovered last night, I enjoy making love to you. I intend to take advantage of that liking for the next six months.”
She looked away and changed the subject. “Are you going to buy it or not?”
“He made us a good deal. I was ready to go with it and Curt butted in. He offered him three thousand less. Told him it’d be a cash deal and he wouldn’t have to hold a mortgage or anything.”
“What happened then?”
“I figured he’d laugh at the offer, but he didn’t. He reached out his hand to shake ours. ‘You’ve got a deal, boys,’ he said.”
“Oh, Jed, how wonderful.”
“I told him I had to talk it over with you, but I knew then we’d take it.”
“Of course, you’ll take it.” She looked around. “What about the livestock?”
“We got it, as well as some of the equipment, included.”
“I learned they’re going to leave some of the furniture.”
“Good. We can save some money there.”
“When do we close the deal and move here?”
“Since you agree, we’ll meet him at the Settlers Ridge Bank in the morning. He said his wife had packed a lot already, so he could be out in a couple of days. If we can get enough supplies to survive, we can move in over the weekend.”
“I’m glad things worked out. Now I’m going to let them think I’m excited about it.” She threw her arms around his neck, kissed him full on the mouth then grinned at the surprised look on his face. “Now let’s go tell them to pack the rest of their belongings because we want to get ready to move to this ranch.”
* * * *
“I can’t imagine why he wanted to talk it over with her.” Gladys frowned.
“I guess he values her opinion,” John said.
“The way she kissed him, I guess she doesn’t care that we’re all watching them,” Gladys muttered. “Must be more to this love at first sight than I thought,”
“See, Mama, I told you it was romantic.”
“Romantic, or not, since it looks like they’re going to buy the place, I think the neighborly thing to do is invite them to supper.” She looked at Curt and Grace. “I had our cook put a big roast in the oven earlier. I’ll get her to add some extra vegetables.”
After the deal was sealed with another handshake, the Lawsons insisted the four of them spend the night. “We can go into town together tomorrow and sign everything legal-like,” John said.
“I’m not sure we can stay the night.” Curt looked at Grace. “Do you have to be at work in the morning?”
“I don’t go in until noon.”
“Then it’s settled.” Gladys took over. “Grace can sleep with Wilma, and you, Mr. Allison, can sleep in the bunkhouse with Mort.” She looked at Amelia as if she was trying to make a decision. Finally she said, “Wilma, prepare the guest room for the Wainwrights.”
“Putting me in the bunkhouse is a good idea, Mrs. Lawson. You’re a smart woman,” Curt said. “It’ll give me a chance to talk with your ranch hand. If I like him and we get along we might want to keep him on to work for us.”
Gladys looked flustered, but said, “I’m glad you like the idea. We send supper out there to him, but of course, you’ll take supper with us in the main house, Mr. Allison.”
“Thank you, ma’am. I love roast and I’d hate to miss out on it. I’m sure anything coming from your kitchen will be wonderful.”
She actually giggled and took the arm Curt offered. Everyone followed them inside. Jed looked puzzled when he saw Amelia and her two friends hiding grins. His look only made them cover their mouths to keep from laughing out loud.
* * * *
The next morning was a busy one. Gladys insisted they have breakfast before going into town to sign the papers to transfer the ranch. As soon as they finished eating, she shooed them out and began barking orders at Wilma about sorting through the things they wanted to take to Texas.
Before they left, Amelia managed to whisper to Wilma, “Please write to me with your new address. I’ll write back and keep you posted on what Stanley Brown is up to.”
“Oh, thank you, Amelia. I’ll write as soon as we get there.”
There was no more time for conversation. The horses were saddled and brought to the front porch. They bid farewell to Gladys and Wilma and rode away.
At the bank things went smoothly. Though surprised, Charles Fielding, the manager, was efficient and business like and it didn’t take long. When Mr. Lawson and his son headed back to the ranch it was almost noon.
The new ranch owners went to the hotel dining room and had the special. Fried chicken, potatoes, green beans and biscuits.
As they came out of the hotel Jed asked, “Are you sure you want to go out to your father’s ranch today, Amelia?”
“I’m sure. We’re into our second week of marriage. I think it’s time my father met my husband.”
Jed turned to Curt. “We’ll be back later tonight even if I have to fight our way off the ranch.”
Curt laughed. “I hope it don’t come to that.”
“Anyway, since Gladys Lawson said it was fine for you to come out there and stay in the bunkhouse, I’ll see you in a day or so. I’m anxious to start rounding up all the stray cattle roaming around there.”
“So am I, but I guess we should lay in some supplies. When the Lawsons leave why don’t I bring the wagon into town? You and Amelia can gather up the supplies in the meantime and have them ready to load up. We’ll then head to our new home and start work.”
“Sounds good.” Jed nodded. “If we can round up enough cattle in the next few weeks, we might have the makings of a fall drive. I hear the fort in Navaho country is paying top prices for beef. Horses, too if you have them.”
“As I check on the cattle, I’ll be checking out the wild horses.” He laughed. “Now, don’t let me have to come and console your widow. You stay away from her daddy’s gun.”
“No matter how much he wants to, I don’t think Daddy will shoot Jed.” Amelia chuckled.
“I sure don’t plan on getting shot.”
“I’ll see you in a day or two.” Curt headed to the livery stable.
“Is there anything you need to do before we go to your parents’ ranch?” Jed looked at Amelia.
“I left our marriage certificate in our room. I want to take it in case Daddy doesn’t believe we’re married.”
“Want me to come with you?”
“I can get it.”
“Then, I’ll have a smoke and wait here for you.”
Amelia wasn’t gone long. When she returned, Jed flipped his cheroot into the street and they headed toward the livery stable. A voice called out behind them, “Hey, Wainwright. Wait up.”
They turned to see Sheriff Gentry headed in their direction. “What’s up, Lance?” Jed asked when he caught up to them.
“I needed to let you know the judge is expected to be in town day a
fter tomorrow. Will you be around?”
`”I plan to be.”
“Also, I’ve still got your reward in the office for bringing in the McBride gang.”
“I’m sure it’s safe. I’ll be by for it in a day or two.”
Gentry laughed. “I understand why you’ve been too busy to come by.” He grinned at Amelia and she dropped her eyes. “Congratulations.”
“Thank you, Lance,” she said.
Lance turned back to Jed. “Sure you don’t want to come by now?”
“We’re heading out to the Donahue ranch. I’ll come by later.”
“You’re a braver man than I am.”
“What do you mean?”
“I hear Rafe Donahue is out for your head. You might be better off facing outlaws again.”
“Daddy’s not going to kill, Jed,” Amelia said. “He’d come closer to killing me.”
“I know he’s wanted to wring your neck a few times, but he’s really mad this time, Amelia.”
“I figured he would be, but he’ll get over it.”
“I hope so.” Lance pushed his hat back on his head. “At least I heard how your husband put the fear of God into anyone who wanted to try for the reward your daddy offered.”
“What do you mean?” Amelia frowned.
“Didn’t you tell her about how you faced those men down in the saloon, Jed?”
“Haven’t had a chance.”
“What happened?” Amelia looked at him.
“I’ll tell you later.” Jed took her arm, and gave her a quick smile. He then turned to Lance. “As I said, I’ll come by for the reward later.”
“Come any time. If I’m not there Deputy Bryce will be. He knows where the reward money is locked up.” Lance turned to Amelia. “I got a letter from Nelda the other day.”
“How are things with her?”
“She’s fine, but she sure is going to be surprised when I write and tell her you’ve settled down.”
Jed laughed. “Who said Amelia has settled down? As a matter of fact, I doubt she ever does.”
Lance slapped Jed’s shoulder. “A truer word has never been spoken. You’ve got your hands full with her, my friend.”
“All right, you two. It’s not fair to gang up on me.”
“Sorry, Amelia, but you must admit…well, at least you probably married the only man in the territory capable of settling you down.”
“Lance Gentry—”
Lance interrupted. “Before I get in trouble with my friends, I’ve got to get to the office.”
“See you later, Lance.” Amelia shook a finger at him. “That is, if you don’t keep besmirching my reputation.”
“I wouldn’t consider it.” He pulled his hat down as he walked away and said, “Good luck with her, Jed. You’re going to need it.”
“Of all the nerve.” Amelia put her hands on her hips and tried to look angry, but her eyes were filled with merriment.
Jed shook his head and took hold of her arm. “Shall we head to the Double D?”
She leaned her head to the side. “As soon as I hear about a showdown at the saloon.”
“I promise I’ll tell you on the ride.”
As Amelia and Jed rode out of town they didn’t say anything for several minutes. When they reached the edge of town and headed into the country, he pulled his horse up beside hers. “Curt met me outside the dress shop you went into yesterday. He wanted me to go to the saloon with him. A group of young men were there. They planned to tie me up and grab you so they could collect the reward your daddy offered.”
“What did you do?”
“I convinced them you didn’t want to go home to Daddy.”
“You must have done something more.”
“I scared them well enough that I don’t think they’ll try anything as foolish again.”
“I’m glad.”
They went for a long time without talking further. Finally Amelia broke the silence, saying, “Are you all right?”
He raised an eyebrow. “Of course. Why wouldn’t I be?”
She glanced at him and saw the distant look in his eyes. She softened. “It’s all right, Jed. You don’t have to talk about it. I need to talk about something because I can’t help being a little nervous. I know Daddy’s going to be irate when we get to the ranch. I’m sure he’ll make a scene and I dread it.”
“Maybe it won’t be as bad as you think.”
“It would be better if Mother was home. She’s been in St. Louis visiting her sister and I don’t know if she’s back or not.”
“I forgot to mention it, but Frank told me she came to the hotel with your father looking for us.”
She glanced at him. “Good. Though she won’t buck Daddy openly, she’ll be on my side.”
“Don’t worry. We’ll be able to handle it if she’s not.”
“You’ll back me up, won’t you, Jed?”
He cocked an eyebrow at her. “Why wouldn’t I?”
“Daddy may offer you a large amount of money to divorce me.” When he didn’t say anything, she went on. “I hope you won’t be tempted.”
He reached over and touched her arm. “I never go back on my word, Amelia. I made an agreement with you and I intend to stand by it for the next six months.”
“Will you quit reminding me I had to buy a husband?” Her voice grew angry.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to upset you, but you know our arrangement.”
She took a deep breath. “You’re right, Jed. I’m acting like a silly child. I guess I’m more nervous than I want to admit. Daddy has always been able to make me feel guilty, even if I’m in the right.”
He reached for her hand. “Remember, I’m here for you. Today will prove to you I’m worth the money you paid for me.”
Hurt crossed her eyes, but she soon hid it. “Then, my dear husband, let’s go let the folks know I’ve made my decision and there’s nothing they can do to make me change my mind about who I marry.”
“For six months anyway.”
“Yes,” she muttered. “For six months.”
Chapter 9
Elizabeth Donahue looked across the dining table at her husband’s somber face. “What’s the matter, Rafe?”
“I’m thinking about taking the advice Vince gave me today.”
“What advice could he possibly give you?”
“He said I should pretend to accept Amelia’s marriage and it wouldn’t surprise him if when I did she’d decide being married to the half-breed bounty hunter wasn’t exciting any longer.”
“From what people say, Amelia is happy with the man.”
“I can’t abide the thoughts of her being with someone like him, Elizabeth. Do you realize how many people he’s killed or put in prison?”
“I’m sure they all deserved their fate.”
“That’s beside the point.” Rafe threw down his napkin. “I know Amelia gets into things she shouldn’t, but she’s really got herself in a pickle this time. There’s no way she can get out of it alone. As usual, I’ll have to clean up her mess so life can get back to normal.”
“I want to meet this man our daughter married.”
Rafe glared at her. “Are you insane? Why in hell would you want to meet him? She’s not going to be married to him long.”
“Maybe not, but Amelia is my daughter. I’ll not be separated from her because of who she’s married to.” She looked at him. “Nor will I be separated from her because you’ll not accept her husband, Rafe Donahue.”
He stood. “Damn it, Elizabeth, you’re my wife. You’ll do what I tell you to do.”
She looked up at him and tears welled in her eyes. “I’m not one of your ranch hands. You will not order me around as if I were.”
“I’m not ordering you, Elizabeth, but you’re my wife and you’re not to question any decision I make. After all, what I do is for your own good as well as mine and Amelia’s. That’s the way it has always been and how it will always be in the future.”
Elizab
eth folded her napkin and dropped it by her plate. “I’ll do what’s right for my relationship with my daughter. If it means accepting her marriage, I’ll do it.”
“No you won’t.”
She stood. “Rafe, I’ve told you before if you try to come between my daughter and me, you may find you’ve not only lost a daughter, but you’ve also lost a wife.” Without another word she swept out of the dining room.
Rafe stared at the blue dress she wore as it disappeared through the door. How dare Elizabeth speak to him in this manner. She’d never defied him before. What gave her the right to do so now? He wouldn’t have it. Women didn’t defy men. Not men they depended on for their livelihood. Besides, he couldn’t have her get this mad at him. She wouldn’t dare leave him. He wouldn’t allow it. It was the wrong time for anything like that. He had to get Amelia away from the bounty hunter and married to Vince. Then he and Elizabeth could take the trip to Europe. She would then calm down and know his decision was right all along.
The maid entered. “Would you like your coffee now, Mr. Donahue?”
“No! I don’t want coffee, Delores. I need something stronger.” He stomped out of the room and headed for his study where he kept his best bourbon.
Rafe was having his second glass when there was a knock on his door. He smiled to himself. “Come in, Elizabeth. I knew you’d come to your senses.”
The door opened. “I’m not Elizabeth,” Vince said.
“What are you doing here? I thought you were getting the herd ready to drive to market.”
“The hands are working with the herd. I was up on the ridge where I thought I might get a glimpse of the rustlers who have been pestering us and I saw two riders coming in.”
“Were they the rustlers?”
“Prepare yourself, Rafe. Amelia is coming in with a man. I presume it’s her husband.”
“I’ll be damned.” He sat his glass down. “I knew she’d come home.”
“I’m not sure that’s the case. She could be coming to get some of her belongings.”
“She can have anything she wants as long as she leaves him and comes home, but she’ll not take a damn thing out of my house if she insists on staying married to him. There’s nothing around here I didn’t buy, so it all belongs to me.”
Amelia's Marriage Page 11
