Wyoming Solace Alanna Coca (c) 2008
Wyoming Solace Alanna Coca Published 2008 ISBN 978-1-59578-521-3 Published by Liquid Silver Books, imprint of Atlantic Bridge Publishing, 10509 Sedgegrass Dr, Indianapolis, Indiana 46235. Copyright © 2008, Alanna C Coca. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the author. Manufactured in the United States of America Liquid Silver Books http://LSbooks.com Email:
[email protected] Editor Deanna Pryce Cover Artist J Savoy This is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents and dialogues in this book are of the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or persons, living or dead, is completely coincidental.
Prologue It was too quiet. Even the nocturnal songs of crickets and frogs were eerily absent tonight. Only her breathing, which she forcibly kept steady, and the ticking clock on her bedside table permeated the thick atmosphere. As usual, only one lamp remained lit in the parlor, and the meager light barely reached the bedroom where Mary lay anxiously. He should have been home by now. Again she went through her mental checklist. Dresses and undergarments that were ostensibly sent out for alterations or repairs months ago were now packed and ready. Money she’d stockpiled penny by penny was in the drawstring pouch, safe and sound in its hiding place in the hall closet. The two pertinent doors in the house were now oiled; they opened and closed without a sound. Squeaky floorboards were mentally mapped out, and after weeks of practice she could navigate around the house silently even in the dark. Jonathan’s hunting dog was deep in sleep, thanks to the powerful sedative she’d added to the brute’s water dish. He would be quiet throughout the night. Most importantly, the tickets were purchased. Everything was ready. She glanced at the clock. Three thirty. The train would leave in an hour. Daniel had timed the trip and it took exactly seventeen minutes on horseback from their meeting point to the train station. If she didn’t leave by four o’clock, they wouldn’t make it. Could she leave before he got home? Once again, she dismissed that idea. That would never work. She couldn’t chance meeting him on the way out the door, or near the depot. No. If he wasn’t home in the next ten minutes, they would have to plan for another time. It would mean at least another twenty seven days. There were very few passenger cars scheduled during the night, and taking a train in broad daylight was fraught with too many ways for him to find her. She blinked back the tears. All that planning! Even the weather was cooperative; there wasn't a star in the sky, no moon, not even a breeze. The shadows were pitch black. It was perfect. But it had to be. This wasn’t the first time her plans were thwarted. It would be perfect some day. She gave in to a desolate whimper. The hollow sound of horse hooves on the cobblestone driveway stifled her self-pity. She heard James scrambling to care for the horse. He had to have been sitting awake waiting for Jonathan’s arrival just as she was; but then no one knew her plans; they both had to have thought she was fast asleep. Mary knew she wouldn’t sleep tonight. There were no words exchanged. Jonathan didn’t speak to his servants except to dole out orders or chastise them in some way. This was a good sign; when he was overly aggravated he would light into his hired help without provocation. She could hear his footsteps crunch on the gravel when he stumbled onto the porch. He was mumbling. Humming? She smothered a smile. Oh this couldn’t be any better! After seven years of marriage, Mary knew Jonathan’s moods. He returned home either angry or happily inebriated. Violent relations always accompanied the former, but she stood a chance with the happy drunk. She was sometimes even lucky enough to avoid his sexual urges altogether if she feigned sleep, breathed very quietly, and moved not a muscle.
She checked the clock again. There was time. Even if he did force himself on her, she would live through it. Afterwards she would just have to wait for him to slip into unconsciousness. She said a quick prayer before he entered the house. She counted his footsteps. He entered the washroom and chuckled. It was more of a childish giggle; so innocent sounding, yet knowing the man intimately as she did, she knew the laughter was thoroughly evil. It was a sound that made one wonder what wicked plan he was concocting, but she couldn’t afford the time or distraction to speculate tonight. Water splashing … he left his belt unbuckled; she could hear it jangle while he walked through the bathroom door and across the hall to their bedroom. This was it. Her heart beat with such force, she was sure he could hear it. She didn’t move. He walked across the room to stand right in front of her. Though she dared not open her eyes even to slits, she knew his waist was mere inches from her face. She could smell him. Cigar smoke mingled with whiskey, the odor of his own body, and the unmistakable scent of cheap perfume. For long moments he stood still. Was he watching her? Studying her? Could he tell that she was awake? She hoped he was inebriated enough, and prayed that she could pull off the act. One last time. Breathe in, exhale. Deeply. Perfectly timed. Not moving from his place beside her, he began to undress. He fell against the bed once, jarring the mattress with what must have been an elbow. He chuckled again. Still she didn’t move. When he regained his balance, she heard his trousers hit the floor, belt and all. After another nerve-racking pause, he flipped the quilt off of her, and covered her breast through her chaste nightgown with his long thin hand. He squeezed. She wanted to cry out from the pain, but she couldn’t. She wouldn’t. She refused to even swallow the bile that rose to her throat while she heard him rubbing himself grotesquely just inches from her nose. He cursed, chuckled, and even mumbled something about Annie’s thighs, before roughly pushing away from her. She mumbled, and readjusted her head on the pillow. He chuckled again, then moved away. She listened, scarcely believing that she had escaped the first round. He crossed the room, poured whiskey from the decanter on his bureau, and swallowed it. If she allowed herself to show any emotion right now, her smile would be enormous. The same sedative that kept the bird dog happily slumbering was now swirling inside Jonathan’s stomach. He threw himself onto the bed beside her, causing the mattress to lurch. His arm went around her like a meat hook and dragged her against him. She was relieved to note that he still wore his long underwear, and he wasn’t aroused. Still, he pumped his hips against her and snickered into her ear. Torturous moments passed before he belched, cursed, and then flipped himself over onto his stomach, leaving one hand clamped over her breast. The next prayer Mary gave was that of thanksgiving. Only very rarely did he come home and not force himself on her. He must have won a few hands of poker at the saloon tonight, enough to afford him a whore and a jovial mood. Whoever Annie was, Mary thanked her. It couldn’t be more perfect.
She risked a peek at the clock. Ten minutes until four. Even if she had to wait fifteen minutes more before slipping out, she would still make it. Just as she knew that the sun would rise in the next few hours, she knew that Daniel was waiting. He’d be there, with a change of clothes, her few belongings, a borrowed mount, and most importantly a new identity. She would leave here with nothing but the nightgown she wore. And the money, she reminded herself. Lord, don’t forget the money! The minutes passed interminably. Jonathan’s breathing became deep and steady, but still not good enough. She waited for the telltale snore. Only then was it safe, and she found the courage to slowly slip from beneath his arm. When that worked without interrupting his breathing, she continued the motion and inched off the bed. She was ready with an explanation as to what she was doing out of bed, but he didn’t stir. She left her slippers and robe at the foot of the bed, and tiptoed through the bedroom door. Now her heart was beating double time. It was so loud in her ears that it terrified her with the thought that she wouldn’t be able to hear him if he approached her. She tried to swallow, but her throat was too dry. There was no turning back. She picked her way through the hallway, reached into the closet and found the thick purse of money. At the front door, Mary Elise Vickerson Stanton paused, listened, thanked God, and then disappeared.
Chapter One “’Tis truly a city!” Daniel’s comment broke through her thoughts. Elise looked to her friend, whose weathered face was lit with a wide grin, his blue eyes twinkling with excitement. The apprehension coursing through her wavered a bit with that expression. At any other time in her life she would have been just as thrilled to be on this trip, but she knew that the difficult journey had only just begun. She took a steadying breath, gave Daniel a shaky smile, and then turned back to the window. “Yes. It’s certainly grown since I was last here,” she studied the bustling city that rolled past her window. She was more than a little relieved to find that there wasn’t any snow on the ground. Granted, it was early June, but she remembered how a Wyoming winter could stretch well into the months of spring. There were still a few of the framed canvas structures that she remembered as a girl, but now there were more brick and stone buildings than canvas, making the town look more permanent. She remembered the train that took her and her family away from Wyoming so long ago. She’d been twelve. Mama’s health had deteriorated, and the local doctor suggested a lower altitude, higher humidity, and the most advanced medical facility was near Carolyn Vickerson’s hometown in Virginia. They left Wyoming to prolong her life, and she’d lived almost eight years after that. Her father Edward made annual trips out west until his health took a bad turn as well. Two years ago, when the V-Bar’s caretaker died, Edward decided to sell the livestock, and close the ranch. The loyal cowboys were given severance and moved on, the homestead was sealed, and Edward was heartbroken. He’d told her it was a business decision he’d had to make, but it didn’t make it any easier to close the home and leave the land that he loved. Elise liked to think that her coming here would make her father happy, even if the purpose of her visit was to sell the property. The train hissed and screeched, slowing to a stop. The wooden boardwalk against the grey brick depot filled with new travelers, and those greeting the incoming. Passengers in their car gathered their belongings; an excited murmur grew. The railroad car emptied. Daniel sat patiently by her side somehow knowing that she needed to collect herself before stepping onto Wyoming soil. When he placed his hand on her shoulder, she looked up and smiled. Daniel had been her servant since she could remember, and was now more a friend and confidant than hired help. He looked different now; his mustache had almost grown in. Elise had insisted that the facial hair gave him a distinguished air. “Is ‘distinguished’ another way of saying that I’m too old to be married to a beautiful young woman?” She only blushed and studied the pleats in her skirt. It shouldn’t be too difficult to maintain the pretense that they were a married couple. She hoped the difference in their ages wouldn’t turn too many heads. Older men married younger women all the time. The fact that they knew each other so well would help. She would be comfortable on Daniel’s arm in public, and as far as what went on inside the home they would share unaccompanied, none would be the wiser. Elise was the only one in Wyoming who knew that the true love of Daniel’s life, Amelia, had constructed a trip to visit her sister in New York City while Daniel
accompanied his charge to Wyoming. She made it a point to mention to anyone who would listen that Daniel would be with her. If anyone went looking for Mary, they would be looking for a single woman, not a man and wife. Elise watched the last of her fellow passengers trudge down the metal stairs and onto the gravelly terrain. Elise placed her hand over her quivering stomach, and took a deep breath. She made it! After four exhausting days on the train and an overnight layover in St. Louis, her destination was before her, along with the uncertainty of the next several months. She reached into her waistband, checking again for the purse of money she had hidden for so long. “I’m a little nervous.” “It’ll be fine, love,” Daniel’s brogue always grew thicker when he remembered his youth, so Elise could imagine what he’d been ruminating. “Ye’ll see. We made it this far haven’t we?” She nodded, and forced an anxious smile. “The hardest part will be remembering to address you as Elise. I hope I don’t make any mistakes. Or maybe this mustache will be more difficult. It’s itching like mad!” She giggled to see Daniel comically rub the prickly white whiskers. Finally she stood, steadying herself on her shaky legs. With her small bag in her hand, she turned to him, and gave him another tremulous smile. Surely nothing ahead could be as scary as what she had left behind. The duo stepped off the train, blending with the crowds of people at the depot. Women were outfitted in the rich-colored skirts and high necked shirt waists that were fashionable in Virginia, so thankfully she wouldn’t look too out of place. The last thing she wanted to do was draw attention to herself. “This is a very modern depot, isn’t it?” Daniel studied the large room while they waited for their parcels. Dark porcelain tiles covered the expanse of the floor. The wooden benches and walls were stained to a rich, dark ash. Large arches divided portions of the space. The high ceilings only amplified the roar of conversations around her. With her already nervous stomach, the chaos settled in and churned its contents until waves of nausea prickled her throat. She breathed deeply through her mouth trying to stave it off. Glancing up at Daniel, she was comforted by his wide grin. His eyes were busy committing the experience to memory. He was making this into a wonderful adventure for them both. She was so glad that he had come along. She wouldn’t have had the nerve to do it alone. She touched his forearm to gain his attention. “I can’t thank you enough for this,” she whispered. “I’ll be forever in your debt.” Daniel laughed. “It was my pleasure. I only wish I could have seen his face when he realized that you’d left.” He snickered. “He deserved to be taken down a notch and by a slip of a girl to boot!” Elise looked away and shivered. She certainly didn’t want to know how Jonathan had reacted. It scared her to even think about the effect her desertion would have on him. His anger was surely spent on the others she’d left behind. “I was taught to be loyal Ma … uh … Elise, and that doesn’t end when my employer leaves town.” “You haven’t been in my employ for almost a year, Daniel. How will you ever enjoy your retirement when you are always coming to my rescue?” Tears burned her lids. “Well, perhaps that’s why I’m seeing you to your new life; to get you out o’ mine.” His eyes twinkled with teasing mirth, and the mood lightened when she playfully shoved him away. He cleared his throat, “Now you wait here. I’ll see about a ride,” Daniel said,
working his way to the front desk, where a harried man sat shuffling paperwork and passengers. Elise tamped down the ridiculous feeling that she had to force her internal organs into their proper positions. She reminded herself that this journey was the promise of freedom; the gift of empowerment. Wyoming wasn’t some far-off land, it was her childhood home. She knew it almost as well as Fredericksburg. Edward loved to relate stories of his beloved home in Wyoming. Her favorite was that of Louisa Swain, the first woman to cast a vote, and it was done here. In Laramie City, Wyoming. It had been over two decades ago, in 1870, yet Elise felt a sisterhood. Women were serving on Juries in Wyoming courtrooms. This had to be the most forward-thinking state in the Union. If there were anywhere in the world where a woman could stand on her own, and begin a new life, Laramie had to be the place. Just a few hours now, and she could relax. She sat stiffly on one of the long benches that reminded her of a church pew. Across from her, a small boy sat next to his mother. His tattered hat sat crooked on his head, and he picked at a seam on his knickers. The boy stared unabashedly at Elise. She grinned at him and waved, trying to coax a smile. He tugged at his mother’s sleeve, and whispered something into her ear. Suddenly Elise became uncomfortable. Her blood drained to her toes. She turned away from the boy and his mother, chiding herself. There was no way that the child could know who she was. The mother couldn’t recognize her either. Relax, she told herself. It’s just a boy. Her heart continued to race until Daniel returned. “’Tis our lucky day!” He beamed. “Seems a rancher just down the road from your place is in town on business … chances are he’ll give us a ride!” Elise stared at Daniel, in disbelief. That would save them at least twenty dollars! She had planned to hire or even purchase a horse and wagon. “That’s … that’s wonderful Daniel … I suppose that beats walking!” “Aye, and you wouldn’t have got me far on foot, my dear.” Daniel grinned. Just then the conductor arrived with the luggage. Daniel picked out the pair’s chest, small in size, but then they had packed only items necessary to survival, and nothing more. Elise followed, her head down, and pulse still pounding in her ears. She checked her coin purse yet again. “That’s him…” Daniel pointed to a man, his back to them. He was stocky, a plaid shirt covered his broad shoulders, and a wide brimmed hat pulled low over his brow, short dark curly hair jutting out from beneath. He was loading packages into the back of a wagon, which all but groaned under the weight. As the couple approached, they heard him speaking softly to the mare tethered to the cart. “Almost done girl, hold on.” “Pardon me,” Daniel spoke. “Are you Mr. Silverton?” The man spun on his heel, and squarely faced the two. Dark eyes bounced between the two of them, settled on Elise for an uncomfortable length of time, then back to Daniel. He clamped a toothpick between his molars and bared his teeth in an easy smile. “Yes sir. Just call me Thomas. What can I do for ya?” Elise grinned. Thomas’s gentle, kind demeanor and his smiling eyes set her at ease. “We were hoping you could give us a ride to the V-Bar ranch … do you know it?” The toothpick nearly fell from his mouth when it dropped open. “Why yes ma’am, I know the V-Bar well, borders the Campbell place, and I drive
near it whenever I’m goin’ to town.” He looked at the two, his eyes probing, “Are you sure that’s where you wanna go? The V-Bar did you say?” Thomas looked shocked; as though he hadn’t heard correctly. “Yes sir, the V-Bar. It’s my father’s ranch; I’m here to see it sold.” Elise wondered at his apprehension, was there something wrong with the V-Bar? Thomas thoughtfully moved the toothpick from one side of his mouth to the other with his tongue. He looked from Daniel to Elise as they both regarded him, his silent scrutiny now becoming noticeable. “Sure I can drop you two off,” he said at last. “I just have a thing or two to pick up, and we’re on our way.” Thomas bent over and picked up their trunk like it was a feather pillow, and tossed it into the back of the wagon. Daniel introduced himself, shaking Thomas’ hand heartily. “And I’m Elise,” she said, offering her hand as well. Thomas took her hand in his, looking confused as to what to do with it. Elise smiled at his discomfort and shook his callused grasp. “Well, uh … you’ll prob’ly be wanting to pick up some supplies. I’m sure there’s nothing edible at the V-Bar,” he snickered. They stepped over the narrow ditch that ran lengthwise along each of the streets, and entered the tall wooden structure. ‘Freund and Bro’s’ was painted in curving script above the door. **** The store overflowed with the aromas of coffee grounds, tobacco and dirt floor. It took a moment for her eyes to adjust to the dim lighting after the bright sunshine outside. Elise recognized many of the customers as the train’s passengers replenishing their provisions. Tables full of merchandise were being picked through, men in the back corner were arguing over the best cigar, and three boys bounced from one foot to the other as they waited for their turn to buy sweets. She and Daniel picked out the necessities. Just the staples. The rest would have to wait until a return trip to town. Money wasn’t a problem, thanks to her recent inheritance, but they had to budget, not knowing the length of their stay. The plan was four months, yet it all depended on the condition of the ranch. It could take years perhaps? Elise hoped not. She would be found before too long. She sighed, and refocused on the task at hand. Thomas loaded the purchases into the wagon, and grinned. “Y’all ready?” Daniel assisted her onto the wooden plank in the front of the wagon. “If this ain’t comfortable, you can ride in the back on them blankets,” he pointed. “It’s a long bumpy ride, I warn ya. I wasn’t planning on passengers.” “This is just fine, Mr. Silverton.” Elise smiled. “Thomas,” he interrupted. “We aren’t that formal here abouts. On the other hand, I wouldn’t be asking just anyone in town for a ride.” Thomas settled in his seat, grabbing the reins. “There’s more than a few unsavory folk here too. A might more than you two are accustomed to. Not so long ago, Laramie was more or less lawless. It’s better now, but still…” Thomas’ words faded Elise could see his curiosity, and glanced at Daniel. Luckily Daniel understood. “A beautiful horse you have here.” He reached to pat the horse’s rump. “Ah … this is Camille,” Thomas turned back to the business of driving the wagon. He snapped the reins, and the wagon jerked to a start. “She’s spoiled rotten. She knows
that going to town gets her a basket full of zucchini, so she’s gonna be hard to slow down on the way home.” He laughed. Thomas pointed out a few landmarks on their way through town. There were new brick buildings downtown. The Bank of Laramie stood on one corner, and facing it across the street was one of many saloons, which had already filled with thirsty patrons, even in the middle of the morning. Daniel commented on the crisp mountain air, nowhere near as muggy as their home in Virginia. “What’s that building, Thomas?” Elise pointed to a large pinkish stone building across the river, a tall wooden fence surrounding it. “Wyoming Territorial Prison. It’s a busy place,” he grinned. “Keep clear of that one, there’s been men escaping from there since it was built in ‘72. ‘Course now that Wyoming’s a state they’re talkin’ about movin’ the prison somewhere else.” Elise scrutinized the complex, searching for a sign of life. There were a few men entering a smaller wooden building behind the prison. Thomas saw her interest and continued: “That’s the broom factory; the prisoners make pretty good brooms there, they sell ‘em all over the country.” Elise studied the complex. The wooden fence looked insurmountable, and the towers at each corner housed at least one armed deputy who kept guard over the yard. How could anyone escape that barrier? The minutes dragged into an hour. The prison was the last building they had seen. There were very few trees, isolated to groves around the winding river to the south. Otherwise, not much obstructed the horizon, just vast empty plains. They were headed toward some mountains, with snow still capping their peaks. Elise conversed little, her mind occupied with the barren landscape. Could she do this? She’d be isolated from most of civilization, only able to rely on herself. And Daniel, she amended. Daniel would be there. The heat grew uncomfortable, but it was a dry heat, and like Daniel had said earlier, nowhere near as oppressive as Virginia summers, a constant brisk breeze cut across the open fields. Still, droplets of unladylike perspiration gathered on her nape and cleavage. Disregarding propriety, she released the top button from her high-collared shirt. Time passed slowly. The conversation was comfortable. Thomas described his job at the Campbell place which neighbored the V-Bar. He spoke of Alan Campbell, his son Cody, who was now running the ranch, and the cowboys in his charge. He answered each of Daniel’s questions about the land, weather patterns and the best place to buy supplies. He told them of the recent drought which cost his ranch hundreds of head of cattle. “It was said that you could cross the state by jumping from one carcass to the next.” Elise shuddered when she pictured the horrifying scene. “Not much longer now,” he said, pointing at a grove of trees to the right. “The V-Bar is down in there. It’s been closed up for a long time, so I’m not sure what it looks like.” Elise glanced at Daniel. “As long as it has a roof,” Daniel said, “It’ll do.” The wagon bumped down toward the trees, Elise desperately looked through them to find the house. Soon it appeared through the aspen. It was bigger than she had remembered. The white paint had begun to flake away, revealing the grayish-brown slats of wood beneath. A new coat of paint was first on the agenda. It was all on one level, but
Elise remembered an attic. The windows were closed off with shutters, and weeds had grown through the slats of wood on the porch, almost obscuring the front door. “Luckily it’s hidden from the main road; otherwise squatters would have it for sure,” Thomas said, slowing Camille to a stop. “We’ve sent our men down here every once in a while to check on it.” Elise jumped down from the wagon too excited to wait for either man to assist her. She walked from one corner of the home to the other, surprised that the exterior looked as good as it did. Nothing major, the windows were all intact, but they needed a good scrubbing. The dust from their wagon settled, and Elise noticed the sweet familiar smell of sage. She couldn’t suppress a smile. The memories of her childhood trips were all fond. The V-Bar was a busy ranch back then, with hired hands and full corrals. Now, all was quiet. Elise pulled the key from the string around her neck, and made her way through the weeds on the porch to the front door. It opened, but creaked in protest. Inside, the room was dark and musty. Each piece of furniture had been covered with a white sheet. The kitchen was to the left, on the far side of the house, a small den to the right of the entrance. There were three bedrooms down the hall on the right. “Ahh Elise. It’s in good shape!” Daniel exclaimed. He set the supplies down onto the dining table and walked through the main living area, winking down at her. “It’s much better than I imagined. He did a good job closing it down.” A wistful smile crossed her face. Edward Vickerson was the last person in this home. He was the one to cover the furnishings, and she would be the one to reveal them. Thomas was at the door with their chest. “Y’all sure you’re staying?” Elise wondered about the implication of his words. Did he think it was a bad idea? “Yes Thomas. Thank you so much for the ride and all your help. Please stop by the next time you are out. I make a delicious stew.” Thomas put the toothpick back between his teeth and nodded. “That sounds very nice ma’am, I’ll do that.” Daniel walked him to the door. Elise watched him leave, wondering if she could do this. Thomas was their last connection to the outside. Once he left, they were on their own. She closed her eyes, forcing her fingers to unclench from the folds of her skirt. She had prepared herself for this for months. Everything was going according to plan. It isn’t fear you’re feeling, she assured herself; it’s excitement. You are in charge. You control your life now. Little by little, contentment replaced her anxiety. “We’d best hurry; not much daylight left,” said Daniel. Digging through the drawers on the hutch in the dining room, he found some candles and gas lamps. He lit them, and began the chore of uncovering and dusting. The shutters were opened to allow light back into the home. Elise began with the bedrooms, imagining the relaxing night’s sleep she would enjoy in just a few hours. **** “Are you serious?” Cody bellowed. Thomas shrugged, avoiding Cody’s eyes. “What are they doing here? There’s no reason for her to come. The V-Bar was already sold to us; the deal was finalized.” Cody kept his voice low, but he spoke through his teeth, to control his rising temper. His mind went back to the last time he saw Mary Vickerson.
He remembered her being a dainty child, very proper. The few times he’d seen her she had been following her mother around in those frilly dresses, scowling at the dust that would invariably cover her polished shoes. But it had been years; she was just a child then, she would have to be in her twenties now. He tried to imagine her in the V-Bar, running a ranch. True, it was only considered a ranch in the most rudimentary terms. There wasn’t a living thing there for her to care for, no crops to tend. The land had been abandoned for too long. The amount of work it would take to bring the V-Bar back to life would be too much for two. Disregarding the fact that one of the two is a woman who would likely faint at the sight of a broken fingernail. “Who was the man?” “Daniel, uh … Keane, if I remember right.” Thomas squinted in thought. “Her husband?” “I … assumed he was, but I guess they didn’t come out and say so. At first I thought it was her father, he’s old enough.” “No, Mary’s father’s name is Edward.” Cody’s eyes narrowed. “We’ve been corresponding for the past year through letters. He didn’t mention sending her here to sell the…” “Who’s Mary?” Cody’s eyes cut to Thomas. His blatant perplexity was so honest, that Cody couldn’t come back with the comment on his tongue. “Mary Vickerson, Edward’s daughter.” He moved closer to the sofa to read Thomas’ expression. Thomas was still confused. “What name was this woman using?” “She called herself Elise.” Thomas’ face, again, pinched in thought. “Did he have two daughters?” Cody searched his memory. He was sure Edward’s daughter’s name was Mary. He wouldn’t have forgotten a name like Elise. Was this an imposter? An opportunist who knew of the V-Bar’s vacancy? “No, there was only one daughter.” Strange that the charlatan wasn’t smart enough to use Mary Vickerson’s name. He thought back to the letters. Had Edward mentioned his daughter’s trip? He raked fingers through his hair. Dammit, he couldn’t remember. The communication was so long ago, he’d put them out of his mind after the deal seemed to be final. He would have remembered had Edward mentioned sending his daughter out to Wyoming to oversee the sale of the V-Bar. He cursed again. The V-Bar. His father’s latest project. If he was wrong, and these newcomers hired a crew to renovate the V-Bar, it would drive up the price, making the deal less than sweet. He stalked from the room and slammed the door of his study behind him. When was the last letter he’d received from Edward Vickerson? It could have been months. He pulled open the drawer that contained the stack of letters. Edward would have sent some sort of notice if the plans had changed. Truthfully Cody hadn’t given the V-Bar much thought since late winter. Not since his father left. Whoever this Elise was, she had to be stopped. A telegram to Edward Vickerson would be top priority. Cody tore the den apart looking for that deed. He hadn’t ever actually seen it, but he remembered the conversation with his father regarding the news. It was mentioned as a side note over dinner one night. He even remembered the “Great, we’ll work on it when you get back,” response he’d mumbled around his mouthful. There was no way he would have imagined
that.
Chapter Two Elise awoke late in the morning. The sun was high in the cloudless sky, streaming through the window which she’d left uncovered. How she slept so late with the warm sun against her eyelids, she didn’t know, but she rolled onto her stomach with a grin, stretching each muscle. She had slept better than she had in years. It had only been the first night in her new home, and still she’d been both amazed and pleased at the transformation of not only the home, but her physical and emotional well being as well. She had slept in fear for so long, never trusting her bedmate enough to fall into a deep sleep. It was a constant struggle to remain out of his reach during the night. If she happened to come in contact with him, he would either grow violently irritated or violently aroused. Either way, it spelled disaster for Elise. She heard Daniel in the kitchen preparing breakfast. She stretched like a lazy cat, enjoying her newfound freedom of lying in bed in peace. Although every muscle in her body was sore from the unaccustomed labor, she relished this pain, she’d earned it. Elise grinned and crawled out of bed to dress. The interior of the home had become warm and inviting. The amount of dust that they had removed astounded her. The windows had all been cleaned, floors scrubbed, kitchen scoured. Daniel had set traps for the mice that he’d seen evidence of in the cupboards. This week’s task would be the exterior. The house could sell quickly at this pace! She pushed the optimistic thoughts aside. It wouldn’t do to get too complacent. There was still much to do, and at any time the weather could turn, costing them valuable time. She all but skipped through the sitting room, preparing a mental list of chores for the day. Just when she passed by the door there was a sharp knock, her heart seized, lodging in her throat and then pounded like a frightened jackrabbit’s. Daniel’s name came out in a whimper. Where would she go now? She shook, and then backed against a wall, one trembling hand pressed over her breast. How had Jonathan found her so quickly? Daniel stood in the doorway of the kitchen, drying his hands, a question in his eyes. “It’s not Jonathan. Elise,” he said quietly. She looked across at Daniel, her eyes wide. “I saw him ride into the yard. It isn’t Jonathan.” She trusted Daniel explicitly, but she was still hesitant to peel back the curtain to see for herself. If it was Jonathan, he wouldn’t have been polite enough to knock. Her back remained pressed against the wall as she peered through a small opening in the heavy drapes. It wasn’t Jonathan. The man who stood with his back to the window was much taller than her husband. The hair beneath his tan wide-brimmed hat was dark, not stark blonde. While waiting for the door to be answered, the man had turned on his heel and placed strong hands onto slim hips, facing the entrance to the ranch, then quickly turned back to knock on the door again. Elise was comforted in the fact that it wasn’t Jonathan, but she still couldn’t see his face. She took a steadying breath, and after an encouraging nod from Daniel, straightened her shoulders and opened the door. The first thing she noticed was the broad chest. A crisp shirt was stretched over the
wide expanse. Her eyes traveled up the row of buttons to the strong brown neck. The square jaw set in determination. Her breath caught as she made contact with his eyes. They were a golden brown, which reminded her of cinnamon swirled into rich coffee. Captivating and exhilarating. “Good morning,” she said. At the tremble in her voice, she mentally hiked up her chin, holding his gaze. “Good morning,” he answered, his rich baritone added yet another facet of his attractiveness. His eyes moved over her, lingering on the quivering collar of her dress until her stomach took a nose dive and snuggled into the cushiony warmth of her pelvis. She held her breath until she gathered the courage to speak. “Can I help you?” His traveling eyes worked their way from the hands clasped at her waist to her face. His eyes narrowed. When she noticed that small gesture, she felt a flash of panic. She hoped that he couldn’t tell that behind the confident façade, she was shaking like a leaf. “Mary Vickerson?” She was surprised that the stranger knew her name. She nodded and he continued, “Cody Campbell,” he removed his hat and moved forward a step. She backed away instinctively. A tiny muscle twitched in the corner of his mouth. “Your neighbor. Our parents have known each other for years.” Her eyes moved up and away from his, then back in realization. “Yes, I remember,” she smiled and moved aside to allow him in. “Please come in.” Cody ducked beneath the door jamb. He blinked against the dim lighting. She studied her neighbor while he inspected the room. He was tall. His dark hair brushed the nape of his neck drawing her attention, hinting at the strength of the shoulders beneath his collared navy blue shirt. The strong back tapered to narrow hips, gloved in dark blue denim. His thighs were muscular; she could see that even beneath his jeans. Her eyes traveled leisurely back up to his shoulders. He was a powerful man, she could tell, and not just in strength, but the powerful aura that surrounded him. “I was sorry to hear of your father’s death,” he turned to face her. “I received the telegraph last evening.” At this, Elise’s polite smile disappeared. Blood drained from her face. Her mind raced. She hadn’t counted on a telegraph from Wyoming reaching Virginia. There hadn’t been a connection between the two states for Jonathan to discover. Now there was. “But … my father has been gone for months now.” Her voice was weak; thoughts whirled through her mind. Did Mr. Campbell mention that Elise was in Wyoming? Who did he correspond with? This could spell the demise of her carefully laid plans. Elise’s eyes darted the room. “The news hadn’t reached me.” “I … see,” she said, only half realizing she was speaking. “I apologize, I should have sent word myself.” When she turned back to face him she saw that he was watching her. Even knowing that he’d find her behavior odd, she raised her chin and asked, “Who did you speak to in Virginia?” She knew the question was bold, but she had to know. Had he reached Jonathan? Had he informed someone, anyone in Virginia about her whereabouts? She didn’t even give out that information to her closest confidants, for fear of Jonathan’s wrath against them. What they didn’t know couldn’t be used against them. She kept her
eyes trained on him, the answer to her question was too important to misunderstand. Cody’s gaze shifted. It was downright unnerving how this man’s eyes tricked her with the weight of their stare even after they’d looked elsewhere. Did he see the fluttering behind the bodice of her dress? It looked like he had to force his eyes back up to hers. “I didn’t get the man’s name.” Cody folded his arms across his chest. She prayed he would elaborate; she must know! She tried to think of a way to ask for more information, when he continued. “I assumed it was a bank employee. I was given an address to forward condolences to you, which turned out to be your father’s home address in Virginia.” Whoever answered the telegram didn’t seem to know that she had left town. He couldn’t have been one of Jonathan’s men. Or it could be that Jonathan’s pride was hurt by his wife’s desertion, and he hadn’t told even his friends. Elise lowered her eyes. Didn’t anyone report her disappearance to the authorities? Wasn’t a crew out searching for her? Wasn’t there a neighbor curious about her whereabouts? The thought that she might not be missed disconcerted her. Jonathan could very well have killed her, and no one would be the wiser. The only public appearance she made was an occasional visit to church, and always veiled. Always at Jonathan’s side. Perhaps she wouldn’t be missed until Sunday. The man on the other end of that telegraph could very well think that she was alive and well in Virginia. The thought occurred to her that Jonathan might have been preparing for her disappearance all along! Pulling herself back to the present, Elise moistened her lips and raised her eyes back to her visitor. He looked to be the type of man who never missed a detail. Her strange behavior surely piqued his curiosity. Daniel walked in bearing a tray and Elise could have kissed Daniel for his timely appearance. “Daniel Keane, this is Cody Campbell. His ranch neighbors the V-Bar.” “Your husband?” At Cody’s bold question, Elise nearly bit her lip in two. That wasn’t the way a wife introduced her husband. Her tongue seemed to swell. Here it was, the question she knew someone would ask of them. The prepared speech had scattered into the deep recesses of her mind. She glanced at Daniel. “Elise and I are married,” Daniel smiled. It wasn’t a lie. Both were married, just not to each other. There was no sign Cody questioned their union and she breathed easier. “Elise? You aren’t—” “Yes, my name is Mary Elise. I use only Elise now.” “Coffee?” Daniel interrupted, saving Elise from further questions. He set down the tray with the coffee pot and three cups on saucers, “It’s good to have company, isn’t it?” Elise nodded, growing more comfortable; her heartbeat slowing to a normal pace. “My father loved this ranch,” she sat, taking the cup from Daniel. “He wanted so much to come back here before he passed. Did you know him well?” Cody looked a bit out of place in the upholstered chair. She imagined him to be much more at ease on the saddle on the open plains. He emanated the vibrancy of the wild. The walls seemed to shrink around him, his body straining against the constraints that the indoors lent. “He and my father were good friends.” “It’s been a while since you were in Wyoming, I assume?” Cody asked, and Elise smiled at the memory. “I hadn’t been back since we moved due to mother’s health. I was twelve.
Unfortunately her illness kept me from returning with my father on his visits.” “Your mother was quite a lady.” Elise nodded in acknowledgement of the compliment. “And you, Daniel? Is this your first taste of the state?” Daniel nodded, replacing the coffee cup onto the saucer. “Mr. Vickerson spoke highly of his home here. But this is my first time anywhere west of Kentucky.” Elise smiled at Daniel fondly. “And how is your father, Mr. Campbell?” Daniel asked. If he was annoyed with the small talk, he appeared intent on hiding that fact. Cody set his coffee cup down on the table next to his chair. “Feisty as ever. He is enjoying his retirement, traveling quite a bit. He’s actually in France right now.” Cody smiled, causing Elise to admire his white teeth set against his tanned face. He certainly was a fine looking gentleman. “I am trying to reach him though, he will be sorry to hear of your father’s death.” Cody looked hard at Elise. “And the imminent sale of the V-Bar. I understand that is your attempt?” His scrutiny was keen, so she controlled her reaction. “More than an attempt, Mr. Campbell.” Elise looked sharply his way. “The only reason that we’re here is to make the necessary repairs to the homestead, and we’ll stay here until it is sold.” Cody's mouth stiffened. “My father and yours had been speaking for months regarding the merging of our lands.” Daniel and Elise exchanged glances. Was Mr. Campbell making an offer on the VBar? Elise tried to remain calm. She couldn’t allow him to see how desperate they were to sell. “I am unaware of his discussions with my father, Mr. Campbell. Are you saying that you are willing to make an offer?” “The offer was made months ago. It’s my understanding that your father accepted our bid, and the transaction was finalized.” Elise made a concerted effort to keep her face from showing her shock. The niggling in the back of her mind told her that she was wrong. During the reading of her father’s will, she had the same feeling. Was his will outdated? The silence that followed was alive with tension. Everything was still. Everything that is, except Cody’s busy eyes. He studied her, waiting for a reaction. When his eyes slipped below her neck he got one. The catch of her breath wasn’t audible, but visible. She was held captive by the cocoa depth and the serious intensity. Color rose to her cheeks in the wake of the path his eyes took. When at last his eyes met hers, she mentally shook herself. “Do you have proof?” “I have correspondence from your father, yes.” Another long silence followed. Elise raised an eyebrow, waiting for more information. “The final document is in my father’s care. I thought you would want to know, before you to go through the time and expense to sell something that frankly,” he paused, “is not yours to sell.” “So the best thing for me to do would be to pack up and return home?” “In my opinion, yes. There is nothing more you can do here.” “Without the deed? Without proof that you and your father purchased the V-Bar from him, you expect me to abandon the property, which by all rights according to the paperwork in my possession and the copy of my father’s will bequeathing it to me … is
mine?” Cody shifted his eyes from her to Daniel. Elise thought she might have been too outspoken. Even if the land belonged to her, it was her husband’s place to conduct business. She would have to be more careful if she wanted to maintain the pretense that they were married. “I will certainly ask my attorney his opinion.” Elise swallowed. “And I mine,” she hoped she sounded more assured than she felt. “You must know that I … we … plan on selling the V-Bar to the highest bidder. If we get an offer to our liking, we will take it.” “And if you don’t?” Cody narrowed his eyes. “We’re prepared to stay here for an extended period, Mr. Campbell.” She forced a smile. “Who knows, we may end up falling in love with Wyoming and remain indefinitely.” Cody’s lips tightened. “It is well known fact that my father and I are the new owners of the V-Bar property. I doubt you’ll find anyone willing to go up against us. When my father returns, he’ll show you the proof of our ownership. You can’t be thinking of undertaking the enormous amount of repairs the property would need to become sellable, let alone profitable.” “You don’t know anything about my property,” she began, but was cut off by his impatience. “It’s my property,” his words were calculated, “and I know everything about it. I wouldn’t have purchased even a dairy cow without knowing full well what I was undertaking. I know that the stable roof is all but falling in, the well pump is missing vital parts, the barbed wire is rusting and deteriorating in many places along the line.” He ticked off a finger for each point made. “There are alkali patches all over the land, meaning crop selection is limited,” he waved negligently around the room, “I won’t even mention the work the home itself needs. We plan on leveling each and every structure.” Elise’s eyes widened at that thought. A strange tugging at her heart confused her. Level the V-Bar? There were so many memories in the house, the floorboards which held scuff marks from the spurs of the few cowboys who had suffered the wrath of Carolyn Vickerson for their carelessness. The restroom mirror, where she watched her father shave. The kitchen stove, where Elise helped her mother stir gravy … no. They couldn’t! “I could very well have the property sold before your father returns. The documents in my possession are legal and binding. I would much rather sell the home to a family who will appreciate it. Not level it.” “You can’t sell something that isn’t yours!” “It’s mine until you prove that it isn’t!” Elise stood, punctuating her outburst, and not so delicately ending the visit. Her blood flowed hot through her veins, and she relished in the freedom to feel. Cody stood also, moving to tower over her, a tactic she recognized as a show of power. She forced her eyes to his, refusing to back away. “I don’t know how things work where you come from, but around here, a man’s word is worth more than a piece of paper. I came here today to save you time, expense, and the embarrassment of discovering that you are trespassing.” He stressed the word enough to scare her, before continuing. “I’ll tell you what, ma’am. Fight the bit to your heart’s content. Since you refuse to believe that this is now my property without the deed,
and to show you how neighborly we are around these parts, I’ll allow you to stay here, until my father’s return. Go ahead and spend your time and money on my holdings.” He moved away from her while she struggled for words. Daniel followed him to the door. Cody stepped onto the porch before replacing his tan hat on his head, tipping it at Elise, and nodding to Daniel. “I’ll be in touch.” Elise peered through the window, as he mounted his auburn horse, and spurred him away. She placed a shaking hand over her heart to keep it from leaping through her ribs. “Daniel, could it be true? Was Daddy’s will outdated?” “There is always a chance, but I can’t imagine Edward selling the ranch without telling you about it. It wouldn’t be like him to make the mistake in his will either.” Together they watched Cody Campbell ride through the pine trees, his back ramrod straight. “I remember him as a boy. He was difficult then also.” She grimaced, returned to her seat, and picked up her coffee cup. “I didn’t mean to question his honor. I believe I insulted him.” Daniel returned to breakfast preparations, leaving Elise to replay the event, staring at the man’s coffee cup on her end table. She was extremely proud of herself for her actions. She had actually stood up to him. A man. Where had that come from? Two months ago she wouldn’t be caught even making eye contact, and yet today she was able to not only meet this man’s gaze, but express herself without cowering. Was it because he was a stranger? Was it due to Daniel’s presence in the room? He was an intimidating man. Powerfully built, and appealingly molded. At one time she wondered if Jonathan had destroyed the desires she could feel for a man. Now she knew that wasn’t the case. Elise sighed. Silly girl, that’s called ‘irritation’ she told herself, not attraction. **** Elise sank into the tub, which Daniel had filled with water as hot as she could stand. The day’s dust dissipated beneath the soft cloth. Her arms ached; it had taken three trips to the river for enough water to boil for her bath. Elise closed her eyes, thankful that she had her former valet’s loyalty; she could never have done this on her own. The pump needed repair, Cody was right about that. It would help immensely with chores, and cooking. The thought of Cody caused Elise’s skin to flush. She dismissed it as lingering anger, and chided herself for dwelling on their meeting the day before. He was right about other things also. She hadn’t thought of walking along the fence line, looking for damages, but that is easily done. She would set out early one day, maybe pack a lunch. She wasn’t sure how long it would take. Not that she’d be able to do anything about damages she’d find, but only after surveying the fence would they know if it would be necessary to hire someone to help. She languished in the bath until the water cooled. She dressed with the delicious aroma of soup wafting through the home. Daniel’s talents in the kitchen were amazing. Thomas wouldn’t be making his monthly trip to town for a while yet, but she’d compiled a shopping list of items to purchase. She would remember to purchase some chickens, and maybe a rooster. Eggs and chicken meat would taste especially good. She’d be sure to ask Thomas if he knew of a good, honest man willing to assist them for a short time. After dinner, Daniel and Elise relaxed in chairs on the back porch, watching the sun
set behind the snow-capped mountains, birds softly singing in the trees. “Could you imagine us in Virginia, relaxing like this?” Elise remarked, passing Daniel a glass of tea. They smiled together, each knowing that in Virginia, she could never relax. “Mr. Campbell said something about a telegraph,” Elise began, “if we could find a way, I would love to send word to the rest, James, Emma…” Daniel nodded. “I’m sure they are worried, but we can’t, you know that. It would jeopardize everything.” Elise nodded. Of course he was right. Had she planned better, she could have had a code-word, or some sort of way to communicate with her friends back home, the only family she had left. “I’ll be sure to let them know all about your journey when I return, once I know you are safe and sound in your new life.” “What about the V-Bar? What if Mr. Campbell is the rightful owner?” Elise had scoured the will and deed, looking for something she had missed. “We might be wasting our time. Just like he said.” “We need to assume that you are still the owner, and we can’t just sit here waiting for Mr. Campbell’s father to return.” Daniel rubbed her forearm. “You do need to have an alternate plan ready, just in case.” They talked into the night. If it was as Cody Campbell said, they would pack up and take the next train west. They would start with Salt Lake City. Neither Daniel or Elise had any ties there, they couldn’t be traced. They wouldn’t have the proceeds from the sale of the ranch, but they would gain time. In their situation, they agreed that time was just as valuable. A small home with a little garden was all she’d need. Anonymity. Freedom. Elise slept soundly again that night, a clear plan and ready alternate in her mind.
Chapter Three Since when was laundry such an enjoyable chore? Elise stooped beneath the shade of a cottonwood, drenched with soapy water and her own perspiration, but she’d never felt better. She remembered her maid Amelia crouching over the laundry tub. Although she never complained, nor accepted Elise’s offer to help, the job didn’t look exhilarating in the least. Now, she took out years worth of frustration on the canvas work pants, which filled her with a sense of accomplishment. A strand of blonde hair escaped her braid, and she brushed it from her cheek with the back of her hand. The soap bubbles crackled in her ear. She chuckled when she looked down at her attire. Daniel’s work shirt that she’d borrowed was sodden, clinging to her curves. The sheer lace of the camisole beneath the shirt was no barrier at all once wet. It was a good thing that he was working in the back of the property cutting some firewood, for she was most inappropriately displayed. Strange, Amelia never got soaked to this extent while doing her laundry. Shrugging, she rinsed the denim, then pinned them to the line beside the rest of her work, enjoying the distinct song of a nearby meadowlark. Below her feet, the ground rumbled. Her head snapped up. It was a horse. Now she could hear the hoof beats advancing. From the slits between the hanging linens, she located the horse. The rider wasn’t just trotting her way; the horse fairly flew over the landscape. Hoping that she hadn’t been spotted behind the damp laundry which waved in the breeze, she scrambled behind the shade tree. She fumbled for her pistol, and clutched it in her hands, now chilled and wrinkled from the wash water. The horse and rider slowed as they approached the homestead. He must not have seen her, for he rode past the tree before stopping. As stealthily as she could, she cocked the gun to prepare for a confrontation. Still the sound was unmistakable and louder than she’d hoped. “Daniel?” The cowboy dismounted. She heard the spurs hit the gravel and the decisive footsteps as they marched toward her. It wasn’t Jonathan’s voice. Her arms were bent against her chest, the pistol an inch from her nose and aimed into the trees, but she didn’t lower it. She closed her eyes gathering her thoughts, forcing the fear away. It wasn’t Jonathan, she repeated to herself. This calmed her considerably, but still she was alone on the ranch with a stranger in her midst. She relaxed the muscles keeping her teeth clenched. When she opened her eyes, she gasped when she saw that the stranger stood directly in front of her. She raised her eyes from the impressive chest, past the bandanna slung around his neck, to his eyes. Cody Campbell. Although he was no stranger, her blood continued to charge through her veins. Cody regarded her strange stance, before one eyebrow arched in amusement. “What are you doing?” His incredulous tone infuriated her. How dare he ask her that, when it was he who rode recklessly through her land without invitation! Her fear was quickly redirected to anger.
“What am I doing? I’m protecting myself from a strange cowboy who rides like a madman across my property!” He snorted a short laugh, but cut his amusement short when he looked her in the eye. She was terrified but she tried to cover it with the daggers which she shot from her eyes. Carefully, he stepped closer to her, eying the readiness of her gun. His eyes held hers, while he raised his hand to the muzzle of the gun, and grasped it with the tips of his gloved fingers. The gun looked ridiculously ineffective when he pulled it from her grip with no effort. “Do you even know how to use this?” His hat shadowed the top half of his face, even so, his gaze pinned her to the trunk of the tree behind her. “Of course I do. Only a fool would handle a firearm without training.” He turned it over in his hands before returning his eyes to hers, where they remained while he disengaged the weapon. She lowered her hands to her sides, then clasped them together at her waist. “And you are so talented, that you would be able to shoot an intruder from behind a tree with your eyes closed?” A mocking grin crossed his face. “Would you rather I shoot first, and ask questions later?” Cody didn’t answer the question. Instead, his gaze dropped to her chest, perfectly displayed beneath the damp shirt. She was mortified when she realized that his attention was rewarded when the nipples stiffened to erect peaks. Elise’s skin fairly burned in the path his eyes took. Covering herself now would be useless; it was too late now, and any attempt at modesty at this point would only make her look insecure. She lifted her chin. “May I have my pistol back?” This time the catch in her voice was obvious. Still, she couldn’t say for sure if it was due to her anger, or the nearness and attention of this captivating man. He raised his darkened eyes to hers. Without a word he extended his hand, the dainty gun hanging from his thumb and index finger. The arch of his eyebrow challenged her to take it from him. She snatched it as though his fingers might burn her, and shoved it into the tiny holster. She spun away from him, removing the first item on the clothes line, with the pretense of folding it. She hoped he couldn’t tell that the sheet wasn’t completely dry. “What can I do for you Mr. Campbell?” She spun around to face him, clutching the bed sheet to her chest. Without pause, he covered the distance between them with two steps. He studied her upturned face for only a heartbeat before he pulled her by the shoulders against his body. The sheet was crushed between them. Her damp shirt had chilled her chest, which only emphasized his warmth. It was then that his mouth covered hers. Shamelessly, his tongue darted out to touch her lips. She opened them in surprise, and he plunged into her mouth. Elise was stunned. The warm glide of his tongue brought with it the foreign taste of tobacco and coffee; evidence that this was indeed happening to her. She gripped the thin shirtsleeves to keep from melting into the gravel. When it did sink in, her entire body tensed, indeed her internal organs constricted and her mind began the familiar retreat from reality. If she separated herself, it wouldn’t hurt. His hand, hot against the small of her back, had crushed her breasts against his ribs, while the other moved around from her back up to her ribcage, and to the outer swelling.
His thumb tested the firmness of her breast, and her mind zigzagged, caught between fear and … something else. Something inexplicable tried to draw her out. Something in this assault enticed her to participate. She fought the temptation. She wouldn’t relax, she couldn’t embrace this. It would turn ugly at any moment. Although, for some reason she couldn’t fathom, her hands weren’t restrained in any way. Still she wouldn’t even think about pushing him away. It was safer that way. She wouldn’t want to anger him. Cody released her mouth, only to brush his lips against her ear. “My name is Cody.” he said softly. His words were so out of context, that Elise had the wild impulse to repeat his name, but she didn’t. She couldn’t; her mind now incapable of sending the correct signals. His warm breath caused a shiver to travel from her scalp to her toes. Inexplicably, her body surged against his. Her eyes opened in shock at her own reaction. He mumbled a swear word, and pulled back from her. The sheet dropped to the ground, forgotten. The damp shirt chilled once again in the breeze, and the cold was a welcoming shock against her skin, effectively shaking her back into awareness. Why was she released? It never stopped once it started. Her vision cleared, and she saw the man before her. His eyes had darkened with passion. His chest rose and fell with the deep breaths she could hear hissing through his teeth. They stood regarding each other until Daniel appeared over the rise. Elise took a stumbling step backwards, her hands and arms searching for a suitably demure position. “Why did you kiss me like that?” Elise whispered. He only stared at her, remaining silent for such a long time that she began to doubt that she had spoken aloud. “Because I wanted to,” he said simply, his eyes narrowing on her. “Why did you let me?” She opened her mouth to answer, and closed it again. She couldn’t explain. As much ground as she’d gained since arriving in Wyoming, she was still paralyzed by fear within a man’s arms. Even if she tried to explain that, it would just bring up more questions. Questions that she wasn’t ready to answer. Daniel’s approach gave her the courage to cast him a fulminating glare before bending down to snatch up the now soiled sheet. She gave him her back and stormed to the basin to rewash the linen, with much more vigor than it required. Daniel shouted a greeting to their visitor, and they spoke while she scrubbed. Elise noticed that there was a difference in the fear she experienced. This was tinged with an undefined something that confused her. Was it because he didn’t finish what he started? The expected cycle hadn’t completed? For that reason, she hadn’t surrendered completely to the fear, perhaps that was the difference today. Quit deluding yourself, Elise. You’ve never been kissed like that. That was the difference today. No. It just hadn’t taken the same path. That was it. Declaring herself the winner in her own inner argument, what she’d labeled fear transformed into rage, and new thoughts popped into her mind like a six shooter in a speed contest. So much for renewing her faith in the male species. Do all men force themselves upon women that way? He didn’t ask permission to kiss her. Nor did he apologize afterward. What arrogance! It was the most intrusive kiss. He didn’t work up to total possession of her mouth, as she thought most men would do. It was unapologetically carnal. Is this how things were in Wyoming? Did he have any morals at all? He knew that
she was married … oh Lord. Was he married? Elise dunked the sheet into the rinse water. Damn him. “Elise? What do you think?” Daniel’s voice brought her head up. “I … uh…” she hadn’t heard a word of their conversation. “Mr. Campbell has a mule for sale. The price is right, he assures me it’s just what we need. What do you think?” She picked up the empty wicker basket and carried it back toward the house. She swore to herself that she wasn’t using it as a shield from Cody Campbell. “I think Mr. Campbell’s powers of persuasion are phenomenal,” she paused for only a moment to glare at Cody before she stormed passed the men. “But I don’t accept charity.” She could hear poor Daniel sputtering with embarrassment when the door closed behind her. Exhausted, she leaned against the door. Her arms burned from the workout; with her anger now spent, she was forced to confront the reality. That kiss was like no other. How long did it last? Seconds? She still wasn’t sure that she didn’t imagine the whole thing, had she intentionally blacked out and dreamed it? If so, where did she come up with the heretofore unknown sensations that his mouth had left on hers? Tentatively, she brushed her tongue along her lower lip. She tasted him. She drew her lip into her mouth and held it against her tongue. He tasted wonderful. That kiss had no remnant of the brutality that she’d expected. Instead she realized that all others she’d experienced were assaults. His mouth wasn’t bruising. Those lips weren’t punishing. Was that how a kiss was supposed to be? Had Jonathan’s kisses ever stirred her like that? He was tender at one time, during their courtship, but he never used his tongue in such a provocative way. After their marriage, he became bolder, and his kisses turned from chaste to sloppy, and then hurtful. She covered her face with her hands. Cody had read her acquiescence as willing participation! She could hear him just beyond the door, speaking to Daniel, the man he believed to be her husband. He must have the lowest opinion of her. She stumbled through the house to change out of the damp shirt. How could she ever face him again? Soon, Daniel entered the quiet bedroom and sat on the bed beside her. She lay on her side, her knees clenched to her chest. “Alright, what was that all about?” his tone reminiscent of her father, “That was certainly out of your character Mary Elise Vickerson.” “I’m sorry Daniel, I know I was very impolite, and then to leave you out there…” “Did he hurt you?” “He kissed me,” she whispered, then swallowed hard, “and I didn’t stop him.” “Did you want to stop him?” “Of course! I mean, I shouldn’t allow … he thinks I’m married … I mean, I am married and…” her voice faded. “I know you’re worried about appearances. I think your sharp words let Mr. Campbell know that you don’t welcome such advances. He won’t likely bother you again. I’m proud of ye.” Elise smothered a grateful smile. “You know, Elise,” Daniel continued, “loyalty isn’t something that can be demanded upon a person. It is earned. At some point, you will have to mentally divorce yourself
from that monster” he gave her a serious look. “When we left Virginia, and you stopped calling yourself Stanton, that was the end of your marriage. He is no longer your husband.” She burrowed back into her knees. Daniel’s words bounced around in her head. No longer your husband. The skip of her heart had little to do with the morality of the kiss. “You were scared.” “Yes. I was at first, but then I noticed that it wasn’t hurtful … it wasn’t like … it was … different.” She gnawed on her lower lip. She raised shy eyes to Daniel’s, but did not see any censure there. “Different is good. In fact in your case, different is exactly what you need. Remember what Amelia told you before we left. That holds true no matter where you are in the world, or in life.” Elise ducked her head and thought back to that day; two days before her departure. Amelia had pulled her aside to give her some much needed motherly advice. “Men aren’t horrible creatures, Mary. The monster that you married is not the person by which you should judge the opposite sex.” She’d wagged one finger at Elise before finishing with a warning: “One of these days you are going to be knocked off of your feet … probably after being kissed … really kissed by a good man, and then you’ll know what I’m talking about.” She nodded, and the subject was closed. Amelia barely reached her husband’s elbow, which belied her domineering personality. One always knew where one stood with Amelia. She spoke her mind, and was blatantly honest. It was a trait that Elise admired. Daniel’s smile brought her back to the present. She realized at that moment that it was Daniel’s relationship with Amelia that helped her find the courage to escape. She had endured her husband’s abuse because she was told, by Jonathan of course, that this was just how it was. All men treated their wives with “a strong hand,” he called it. Women were the inferior sex, everyone knew that. Elise knew for a fact that the nightly “wifely duties” were a degrading and painful chore for every married woman. She couldn’t remember her parents’ relationship, but she assumed that it was much like her marriage. It was hard to imagine; granted, her mother would never shrink away from her husband’s touch, and she couldn’t believe her father would ever hurt anyone, let alone her mother. Daniel and Amelia showed her that it wasn’t the way of things. Men could, and did, love their wives and not hurt them. **** Cody smiled. He set a more leisurely pace for the ride home. As beautiful as she was when happy, she was exquisite when angry. She looked so damn cute in those trousers. Each curve of her bottom distinct beneath the stiff fabric. He could still taste her on his lips. Her breast left a permanent impression in his hand. Her blonde hair had curled from the hot wash water. She looked mussed. Sexily so. He longed to hold her body against his, cover those erect peaks with his palm, investigate the skin of her abdomen. His fingers tingled in anticipation of discovering the texture of her skin. He never did get an answer to his question. Why did she let him kiss her? Or was he deluding himself? Was she participating, or too stunned to fight him off? She almost looked terrified, as if what he had done could have hurt her. He thought about it for a
while before snorting a small laugh. No, she wasn’t scared, just confused. If she was feeling anything near what he was, he couldn’t blame her. He wasn’t thinking rationally, that’s for damn sure. If he were, he wouldn’t have dared get that close to her. For God’s sake, she’s married; her husband could have been anywhere. Obviously he wasn’t thinking. He would just have to put that kiss out of his mind. Pretend it never happened. It shouldn’t have happened. It can’t happen again. His smile disappeared. **** Jonathan swirled the dark liquor around his glass. He’d nursed this damn drink for twenty minutes. The man beside him, the only other patron of the murky bar at this time of day, had all but slid off the barstool. Jonathan gave him a disgusted once over. The old geezer stunk to high heaven of stale body odor and liquor. His outfit was pieced together from mismatched items of discarded clothing; not one item fit his scrawny frame. If his information weren’t detrimental to his cause, he would have left this odorous beggar where he’d found him. On the steps of the depot, chanting those words. “I’ve bought you your drink,” Jonathan said, “now tell me where you took the ring.” “Know what’s funny mister?” Gaping holes where teeth should have been, allowed saliva to pool against his lips which were split into a wide grin. “That ring got me twelve dollars,” he snickered, then slapped his hand on the bar. The movement caused him to wobble precariously, which took the wind out of his sails. He turned serious. “Twelve dollars,” he repeated, “bought me all the drinks I wanted, and I … could’a bought you a drink” Jonathan’s anger simmered … it stung his skin from the inside. Twelve dollars, for a ring that bound her to him. She thought nothing better of it than to drop it in the hat of this repulsive beggar. She’d discarded it like trash. “Where did you take the ring?” he asked again. “Them words is my good luck now ya know.” Either the vagabond didn’t hear his question, or he was ignoring him. Jonathan gripped his sweating glass to keep from knocking the last of his blackened teeth from his face. “Unto me eternally,” To hear this filth speak the words that were engraved on her ring was the ultimate insult. Jonathan tossed the drink down his throat. That was how he’d found him, spouting them to anyone who would listen. “Dunno what they mean, but when I say em, folks think I’m smart,” his chest puffed out momentarily, then deflated with a long belch. “Where did you take it?” “To the man.” Jonathan gave him three seconds to elaborate, and then he was on his feet. The tendons of the man’s neck felt as fragile as a chicken’s beneath his own powerful fingers. The more pressure he used, the more satisfied he became. When the bastard’s eyes had bugged out of their sockets and the once grinning mouth turned to a cold blue, Jonathan was flooded with the warm rush of pleasure.
“Where did you take the ring?” He regretfully released the pressure on the old man’s adam’s apple to allow him to speak. “Shop … downtown…” he croaked. He’d begun clawing at Jonathan’s hand as it clamped on his jugular. “Which shop?” His feeble shoulders jerked into a shrug, “dunno … I was … drunk. I … I swear mister…” Jonathan believed him, due to the fear in his eyes. Angrily, Jonathan twisted his bobbling larynx. The beggar’s bloodshot eyes rolled back into his head, and he lost consciousness. Jonathan released his hold, allowing the pitiful man to fall onto the ground, where he immediately soiled himself, and seconds later, vomited. “Jesus, what a revolting excuse for a man.” Jonathan turned away from the gasping body on the floor, and left the establishment. Downtown. He’d find the ring, by God. He’d find her.
Chapter Four Elise woke early, before sunrise, and packed for her trek along the fence. She planned to be home before dark, but she couldn’t say for sure where the fence ran. Even in the longer excursions with her father, she’d never been to the far corners of the property. She donned her work clothes, an old pair of men’s denim, and a button down shirt. She braided her hair into one long plait, reaching to the middle of her back. The wide brimmed western hat sat atop her head. Glancing in the smoky glass of the mirror above her bureau, she shot her reflection a wry smile. ‘Horrid’ was the first thing out of her mouth when she’d seen the hat. Since though, she wouldn’t leave the house without it. The broad brim protected her skin from burning beneath the unrelenting sun and thin Wyoming air. Her boots were practical and comfortable, but not something she would want to be seen wearing on the sidewalks of the city. She smiled to herself. If anyone in public saw her now, she would be mortified. She could very well be mistaken for a man. After leaving a note for Daniel, Elise slipped out the back door. Each time she encountered it, the urge to take in a cleansing breath of the clean Wyoming air was too great, and a silly, contented smile spread across her face. She began at the section of fence closest to the home and started east. The only sounds she heard were the crunch of her boots on the gravelly terrain, and the occasional chirping bird. The sun peeked over the rise in front of her, creating the most glorious sunrise she’d seen to date. She stopped walking to take it all in. Oranges, pinks and purples filled the horizon, almost singing to her. From where she had come to here. A tear formed, and clung to her lashes, blurring the scene, somehow making it even more magnificent. Just two months ago, she couldn’t imagine herself with the complete freedom she had right now. Her heart could almost burst, overwhelmed with the emotion. She wanted to run, scream, laugh, dance, and cry all at once. She spun around, her new home in the distance, and the fence she followed were the only man-made interruptions in the virgin landscape. The sky brightened, waking the birds, and encouraging their gentle songs. She closed her eyes, embracing the warmth of the new sun. So this is peace. The hike along the fence line turned out to be more healing than she had imagined. Alone with her thoughts, she allowed herself to replay many of the events of the past months. Her father’s death, although she couldn’t imagine it at the time, was the beginning of her new life. She had been told that her father had already sold the V-Bar. Jonathan, too, had been informed that it was sold months earlier. When she realized that it was still here for her, a place to live, a new life, she was stunned. It was almost too good to be true. It was Daniel’s idea in the end, to use her inheritance to assume a new life in the west. Elise smiled, as she remembered the lie she told Jonathan, the amount of her father’s estate was much larger than she claimed. The process she’d undertaken to keep the secret was almost impossible; Jonathan’s astute accountants had to be fooled with a quick money transfer. Thank goodness she had her father’s lawyer to help her! Her heartbeat quickened at the memory. There was always a chance that Jonathan would uncover her dealings. She had to disappear before that
happened. She checked over her shoulder, only to see that the V-Bar was no longer visible. She did recognize the grove of trees which enveloped the home. To her right, nothing. Only sagebrush dotted the otherwise barren prairie. To her left, another grove, far in the distance. She squinted. Yes, a wooden corral, very large. Another ranch! Elise made a mental note as to its whereabouts in relation to her own home. Not too far. She had been hiking almost two hours; she’d estimated it to be about the same distance away as the VBar. Perhaps that was Cody Campbell’s ranch? There was no way to know for sure. She walked onward, surreptitiously glancing its way, hoping to see a sign of residence. There were cattle tracks in the dirt on the other side of the fence, but no livestock to be seen. It must be a very large ranch, she thought. She continued onward; the land fell away, and the new horizon revealed the end of her trek. The corner of the fence was down for about six yards, the barbed wire coiled into a lethal-looking tangle along the line. There were fresh livestock footprints on her property. The downed fence allowed her neighbor’s cattle to graze on her land. Ordinarily, she thought that she should be upset; she knew from her father that such a sin was grievous, and offenders were often shot by the ranch owner. The fact that she had nothing to protect, and the land looked none the worse for wear, she decided that until the fence was repaired, there was no reason to deny the animals of their basic instincts to find food. Before the sale of the V-Bar, she would have to make sure that the section of wire was reattached. Daniel, she was certain, would know the best way to repair it. Elise looked around to see if she could find a lone animal, still grazing, but there was nothing. Nothing but the amazing virgin land, its untouched beauty almost ethereal. A small group of trees obscured the actual corner of the fence. The aspens were beautiful; the round leaves flittered in the breeze. This would make a wonderful spot for a child’s playhouse, she mused, trying to remember the time spent in Wyoming during her youth. Undoubtedly, her mother would never have allowed her this far from the house. What a wonderful oasis! The plot was lower than the rest of the land, which caused the rainwater to settle in, nourishing the soft grasses beneath the shade. No wonder her neighbor’s cattle were drawn to the other side of their boundary. Elise imagined a gazebo, or gentle swing. If only it were closer to the ranch house, she could enjoy it more often. Elise grinned as she stepped into the shade of the trees. Suddenly, at her feet, she was shocked to see a small bedroll. It was placed beside one of the trees, along with a small knapsack. It looked as though she’d caught someone setting up camp! Elise backed away; she felt the blood drain from her face as fear gripped her. Who was on her land? She scanned the area, hoping to see someone, yet at the same time, hoping she wouldn’t. She emerged from the grove and backed into something. Someone, she realized. Before thinking she reached into her belt and pulled the weapon as she spun around, aiming the pistol at the figure before her. It was an older man. Thin, weathered, dark skin. Was he an Indian? No, she thought, not dark enough, his nose was too narrow, and he was dressed like a white man, tan dungarees, long sleeved shirt, and western hat. His dark eyes, surprised at the speed with which she drew her weapon, met hers evenly. He raised his hands above his shoulders, his movements slow and smooth. Elise kept her hands steady, belying the turmoil strumming through her being.
“Who are you” she forced strength to her voice; her life might depend on her potency. The man remained silent. Was he being deliberately obstinate? She narrowed her eyes. “Who are you?” she repeated. “What do you want?” Was he following her? Had he been watching her? His eyes still showed a trace of surprise at her appearance, yet now an eager friendliness shone behind them, as if he was happy to have company. He had a small wiry frame. Knuckles that had thickened with age and callused palms told his story. This man worked hard and long. Still, he hadn’t said a word, so she repeated her questions. He shook his head. Elise eyed his pistol, hanging onto his right hip, but he made no move to reach for it. His eyes met hers without hesitation, which relaxed her a bit, but she didn’t want to let her guard down too much. “What are you doing here?” “Joe,” he said in a low raspy voice. “Joe…” she repeated, understanding. He doesn’t speak English! “What are you doing here … what do you want?” Elise spoke slowly. Joe looked down at his bedroll and grinned. “Camp.” Elise didn’t know what to do. Her instincts told her to trust this man, but if she lowered her gun, he could very well pull his. She eyed his pistol warily. He noticed, and put his hands higher, and motioned for her to take it. Elise wasn’t sure what to do. If she got closer he could reach out and grab her gun. After a long inner-struggle, she decided to trust her instincts, and moved close enough to the man to snatch the gun from his holster. Her heart beat in her ears, but he made no move toward her. She backed away, his gun secure in her possession. “Camp.” he said again, pointing at his bedroll, a smile coming to his dark face. Elise nodded, and then wished she hadn’t. Had she just given him permission to camp on her land? She pointed to the ground. “Land … my land.” she touched her chest. Joe nodded, seeming to understand. “Okay” he said simply, still smiling as he lowered his hands. Elise couldn’t help smiling in response and in relief, though he obviously didn’t understand. He walked to his knapsack, and bent down to open it. “Eat?” he pulled some dried beef from a paper wrap and offered it to her. Elise shook her head. Feeling foolish now, she lowered her gun. Joe sat down on his bedroll, and took a bite. “Joe.” he said again, tapping his chest, then a questioning look her way. “Elise.” she responded, growing more at ease. She had the advantage … both weapons in her hands. Joe continued smiling at her, and tore off another chunk of the leathery meal. “Elise … land,” he tapped the tree beside him. “Yes!” Elise nodded excitedly, “my land, yes.” Joe nodded in approval. Elise smiled again, wondering which language he spoke. He could be a Spaniard, she thought, as he ate, disregarding her scrutiny. She squatted down across from him, resting against a tree. Perhaps now was a good time to eat her lunch, she couldn’t tell when the next shade would appear on her hike. She pulled the bread from her vest pocket, and ate it with Joe as company. So much that she wanted to know, where he had come from, where he was going, why he was alone … but no way to ask. Joe watched the horizon, at ease in the open landscape. He looked to Elise to be a wanderer, not many possessions. After a few attempts at small talk, which only ended up in frustration, she stood, deciding that Joe
could sleep under her trees, as long as it wasn’t intended as permanent. Joe stood also, questioning her with his eyes. “Good bye, Joe.” Elise said, handing him his pistol, and waving. “I need to go home … Elise … home…” Joe’s head bobbed in excitement. “Home!” he repeated “Yes, okay.” He gathered his belongings. Elise stammered, confused, perhaps he was going home as well. “Good bye.” she said again, walking away, leaving Joe to his clean up duties. She had walked almost fifty paces, when she heard a sharp whistle. She turned, facing Joe, but he was not whistling her way, not even in her general direction. She shrugged, silly man, she thought, continuing on her way. Almost immediately, she heard the pounding of an animal’s approach. The spotted horse met Joe beneath the tree, and he began packing his gear onto the saddle. Elise smiled, glad to see that he wasn’t alone or destitute. Again, she continued her hike, South now, still no sign of the next corner of her fence. She’d kept her bearings, and was confident that she could find her way home, even if she cut through her land, rather than follow the fence. “Elise!” Joe shouted from horseback. “Elise … home.” He dismounted, offering her the saddle. Elise gave Joe a thankful smile. “Oh Joe, thank you, you don’t need to…” “Home, come Elise,” he interrupted, guiding her to the saddle. Elise stammered in confusion; did he want her to take his horse? Was he going to walk? She decided to again trust her gut feeling, and take this stranger’s kindness. “Thank you, Joe.” She smiled his way, and then mounted the horse. She winced when her tender thighs hit the leather. She grasped the pommel to steady herself. Lord, how long had it been since she’d ridden? And not astride since she was here as a child! She couldn’t even think about wearing dungarees in Virginia, Jonathan would never allow it. Yes, she thought, so many little things she was not going to miss. “Okay,” Joe said when she was settled, then he mounted behind her, not allowing her time to object. This was a little closer to the stranger than she was comfortable. She touched her handgun tucked back into her waist belt. He seemed aware but unperturbed by her discomfort, and he nudged his horse into a trot. His arm would occasionally graze hers as he held the reins, but otherwise he maintained as much distance as he could in the circumstances. After a few minutes, Elise began to relax. If he planned to do anything unscrupulous he would have done it by now. After riding what had to be miles in silence, she relaxed. They weren’t riding away from the V-Bar, so if she called a halt to the journey, she wouldn’t be any worse off for accepting his assistance. His demeanor and overall aura emanated a sense of security. She could trust this man. As if reading her body language, Joe asked from behind her, “Okay?” She smiled and answered in kind. Joe spurred the horse, and they galloped along the fence line. At this pace, she could check the entire line by nightfall! “Beautiful day, isn’t it Joe?” Elise was unsure how much he understood, but she could try. “Okay,” he replied. The afternoon sped by after that. Joe seemed to know why she was out, because he rounded the corner of the fence when they reached it without question. He even began pointing out sections that needed repair. “Work,” he would say, nodding. Elise found herself replying, “Okay.” In a relatively flat area of her land, she noticed patches of white chalky substance
covering the gravel. The horse’s hooves created the white puffs of smoke when they came upon it. Joe noticed it also, so he dismounted and knelt, rubbing it between his fingers, then sniffed the material. He shook his head and offered his handful up to her for examination. His expression was bleak, but she couldn’t identify the ash in his fingers. When he saw her confusion, he dusted his hands and shook his head again. “Alkali?” she said, remembering Cody’s words. That must be it. “Angry,” he agreed. Elise wondered at his choice of words. Did he think she was angry, was he angry, or was this an example of the language barrier? He swung himself onto the saddle, and again nudged the horse forward. After taking the next corner, the mount was headed back toward the ranch. At one particularly quiet moment, Joe turned to her and said, “Wise-w!” She shot a questioning glance at him, but his eyes were trained to their right. Without speaking he stopped his horse, and motioned for Elise to be still. She looked around, wondering what could have stopped him. He pointed to a ridge. She saw nothing, but Joe was focused. He pulled his rifle from the scabbard on his saddle, aimed at the ridge, and shot. Only then did she see the Elk buck, camouflaged against the landscape, fall to the ground. He whooped. “Ha haa…” Joe pointed again at the kill, and riding in its direction, said to her: “Eat!” Elise now understood. ‘Wise-w’ must mean Elk. They approached the buck, lying motionless beneath a group of rocks. Joe was an excellent shot; he’d killed the animal with one shot behind its ear. Joe leapt from the saddle, and rummaged through his saddlebags, emerging with a large knife. Elise slid off the saddle also, not sure how she could help. “You land … you eat.” he proclaimed, his dark eyes twinkling. For almost an hour, Joe worked on the carcass. Elise had to step away a few times, her stomach turning. He quartered it, and wrapped the meat into small canvas tarps he had packed away, apparently for this reason. Joe gathered every part of the animal, leaving only bloodsoaked earth which covered the spot he’d buried the viscera to ward off scavengers. He strapped the packages to the saddle, so methodically, that she could tell he’d done this before, countless times. The sun dropped lower in the sky. If it weren’t for the horseback, they surely wouldn’t make it home before dark. Elise hoped Daniel wouldn’t be worried. “Home … okay,” Joe spurred the horse at a quicker pace now. How he knew where they were going, she didn’t know. Perhaps he had been on her land for weeks, and was aware of their presence? What did it matter? It was apparent that Joe was trustworthy. Along the way, Joe continued to point out wildlife, that Elise would not have noticed without his sharp eye. Many prairie dogs, rabbits, a beautiful bald eagle, and a lone antelope buck. The words he used to name them weren’t English, but she couldn’t place which language he used. Elise hadn’t been exposed to any language other than her daily lessons in French as a youngster. The words he used didn’t have the fluid vowel-filled sound of French; they were guttural, almost clipped. She was happy to see the grove of trees surrounding the V-Bar growing on the horizon. Although she was once comfortable riding astride a horse, it had been quite some time since she had actually done it, and her thighs were beginning to ache. Daniel was on the back porch watching the approaching horse and its two riders. Elise could only imagine what he must be thinking. The look on his face said it all, Elise grinned as she dismounted and brushed the dust from her clothing.
“Daniel, meet Joe. I discovered him on the far edge of the property.” Joe tipped his hat in greeting. A man of few words, Joe went to work, unpacking the meat from his saddle bag, while Elise related the stories of the day to her friend. “You are mighty trusting, miss.” Daniel mumbled, as the two boiled some water for the feast. Elise understood. “I know, this is unusual, but I just know that he’s alright. I don’t know what it is, but I just know … he’s safe, you’ll see.” She cut the meat into cubes, and fried it, filling the home with the delicious scent. “Already we have reaped a benefit … meat!” Daniel nodded. “I’m sure he’s a good man; I got the same impression. He looks trustworthy.” Still, they both decided that Joe could not sleep in the house. If he wanted to stay, they would set something up in the bunkhouse where the cowboys stayed, back when the V-Bar was a thriving ranch. It would need cleaning, but the many beds inside were neatly stored. Dinner was delicious, the fresh meat a welcome addition. Joe was very appreciative of the plate, which he obviously wasn’t expecting. The sun set slowly over the horizon, and the three once again found themselves on the back porch watching the amazing show of color. Elise told Daniel of the condition of the fence. Not as bad as their neighbor made it out to be, but still something to correct. Joe listened to their conversation, but was not able to contribute much. The occasional “okay” when a question was posed to him, making Elise giggle at times. When he stood, he patted his belly in thanks, and said a simple, “Good bye.” “Joe, stay…” Daniel stood, following Joe to his horse. “Sleep here, Joe.” They used hand signals and exaggerated English to make him understand. She knew he understood when he smiled awkwardly, then thanked them with profuse smiles and handshakes. They showed him to his quarters, before retiring inside. What a day. Elise fell into bed, exhausted, and slept soundly.
Chapter Five It took a while for them to convince Joe that he could remain on the ranch with them. It was still unclear where he was headed, or where he was from. “I work,” he said. He spent the following day in the barn, cleaning the stables, and preparing the rest of the elk. Early the next morning, the three were clearing the overgrown weeds on the front of the property. Joe abruptly stood erect, listening, and then motioned for Elise to go into the house. She and Daniel exchanged curious glances, but she obeyed, trusting him. She watched from the window. Sure enough, not long afterward, up rolled Thomas’ wagon, and a horse and rider beside him. It was Cody. Elise shook her head. What could they want? She calmed her racing heart. No reason to remain angry at Cody. She admired his angled face beneath the black hat. He looked at Joe the same way he might have looked at a bothersome horsefly. They seemed surprised to find a stranger on the property. Elise emerged from the house dressed in work clothes. “Who is this?” Cody asked, pointing at Joe, his tone harsh. “Well, hello Mr. Campbell. So good to see you also.” She responded, ignoring his rude behavior. Daniel smiled at her jibe, then injected. “This is Joe. He is helping us around the property. Please, come up for a cool drink." Thomas dismounted, his characteristic toothpick dancing between his teeth. Daniel led the way to the front porch, where two benches sat, facing the grove of aspen. Cody stood still, eyeing Joe with distrust. The older man returned his gaze without hesitation, even approaching him to take the reins and lead the horses to water. Cody then turned his eyes on Elise. “To what do we owe the pleasure?” She asked, with an underlying sarcasm. He shrugged. “Thomas and I are going into town,” he walked close to Elise, his shadow falling over her. His eyes danced over her face. “We wanted to see if you needed anything.” his voice softened. “That is very kind of you, Mr. Campbell.” “My name is Cody,” he interrupted, a warm smile spread across his face. “Mr. Campbell is my father.” His words reminded her of the kiss. Hadn’t he whispered those words so close to her ear? Didn’t the tickle of his breath onto the sensitive skin of her earlobe still cause a shiver of delight when she allowed herself to remember the scene? He winked her way, and she smiled in return. “May we offer you some tea?” Elise led him to the porch, where Daniel had already prepared the glasses. At least Cody’s manners had improved, putting her more at ease. “Where did Joe run off to?” Daniel wondered aloud, while he poured a glass. “That man, doesn’t take a break from working, he’s likely clearing the stable.” Thomas grabbed on to the opportunity. “Did you hire him from town?” He asked, sipping the cool tea. “Well,” Daniel began, glancing at Elise, “we just came across him, really. Just
passing through. He doesn’t speak much English.” Elise focused on her glass, very aware of Cody’s presence beside her. She could almost feel the warmth emanating from him. “Interesting,” was his only dry comment. “I know it sounds strange, but he is a very trustworthy man. Kind.” she spoke to Thomas, not sure she trusted herself to look into Cody’s dark eyes. “Folks around here are not like those in the east.” Thomas responded, his tone firm. Elise laughed. “I was hoping that would be the case.” She said, the meaning known only to Daniel. “Oh, Thomas,” she continued, switching subjects, “We still owe you supper. I’ve only got one specialty, but Daniel is amazing in the kitchen.” She smiled at the older man, who raised his glass in thanks. Thomas looked to Cody, his eyes questioning. She could have bit her tongue as she realized the role they were supposed to be playing. A wife should be more comfortable in the kitchen than her husband! “On the way back from town, perhaps?” She added. Cody shrugged. “Do as you like, Thomas,” he responded, throwing back the last of his drink. “You are welcome also, Cody.” Elise said “Thank you, Ma’am,” was all he could manage. “If we return in time.” He added with more firmness. “We will be expecting you. It’s the least we can do, for your kindness.” Daniel led Thomas inside to prepare a list of necessities. Elise gave him some money, more than she thought they might need. When she stepped back onto the porch, Cody was nowhere to be seen. He must have gone to fetch his horse. He wouldn’t say anything rude to Joe? She marched toward the watering trough. Cody’s horse was there, but neither man was around. The horse looked at her, then back away. Elise walked toward the animal. She scratched behind his ear, and patted his neck. “What a nice boy” she said, giggling when the horse nudged closer to her hand for more attention. “Scout,” Cody said, so close behind her that she twirled to face him. “His name is Scout.” Elise found her hand at her chest, steadying her heart. “You frightened me Cody,” she managed a weak smile. “Count yourself lucky that it’s just me, then,” he murmured, taking a step closer to her. She lifted her chin to meet his eye. “You really shouldn’t be so trusting, Elise.” His closeness caused her nerve endings to flare, indeed stand at attention. The masculine scent of clean air, pine, and shaving lather filled her nostrils. Even hearing her name on his lips was alluring. When she realized her mouth had dropped open in a most unladylike way, she snapped it shut. Her mind raced, looking for words, but he had caught her off guard. “This land is wild, untamed. Indians roam free, looking for a way to get back at the white man.” He moved even closer to her, his hands reached for her shoulders, preventing her from backing away. She tensed. A man was touching her. Holding her. She could feel the strength in each of his fingers. It was a constrained grasp, one that told her that he wasn’t using even a fraction of his sinewy muscles to trap her. His words were clipped, his annoyance evident. Cody’s eyes remained on hers, waiting for a response. “You are asking for trouble, Elise, inviting strangers to your home.” Still, she remained silent. “Do you even know what rape is?” He pulled her close to him, his hands firm on her arms. The word snapped her from her sinking feeling. No. That will not happen to me again, she told herself.
Never again. She narrowed her eyes and focused on his. “Is rape your intent?” Elise spoke with disdain. Cody’s mouth tightened. The look in his eye told her that it wasn’t something of which he liked to be accused. Noticing the chink in his armor, she now knew what his plan was. He was trying to scare her. Without a word, Elise inched toward her pistol. “Of course I know…” “I don’t think you do,” he interrupted, the serious undertone clipping his words. “Your handyman,” he smeared the word, “could easily see you here alone now, trap you, press up against you…” Her eyes went to his mouth, which looked to be descending upon hers. She could feel his warm breath, and was surprised that it wasn’t repulsive as Jonathan’s always had been. Again, she raised her lids to meet his gaze. His dark eyes were narrowed on her. She searched for something to say, but no words formed when his mouth lowered over hers. The sound of the pistol cocking was unmistakable, and he froze. She’d pressed the muzzle of her gun against his firm abdomen; her stealthy movements had caught him off guard. Good. He dropped his hands from her, and backed a step away. She took a long time to lower her gun, then disarm it. “I will never be taken advantage of,” again, she added to herself. Jonathan had forced himself on her daily. She had used each occurrence as ammunition, a reason to get away. “My father taught me well,” her hands were steady, as she tucked the gun back into its holster, and lifted her chin. His eyes studied her face. She met his questioning gaze with a confident smile. “Did I pass your test?” Cody’s mouth tightened, “My point stands. Just be careful. There are men out there that aren’t as easy to read as I am.” Cody nodded toward her pistol. “That’s going to keep you out of some trouble, but there are times when you won’t see it coming.” Cody’s voice was sincere. She could feel the intensity, and found herself flattered by his concern. He took the horse’s reins, tipped his hat toward Elise, and walked away. Elise’s pulse continued to flutter. Joe stepped beside her, watching him as well. “Okay,” he muttered. Joe’s presence surprised her. How long had he been standing there? What had he seen? Why she was suddenly embarrassed? Cody’s hands had left her arms many moments ago, but she still felt the warmth of his touch. It was as if he had burned his presence onto her flesh. If she had waited to pull her weapon, would he have kissed her? Elise shook her head, silly thoughts. There was no room in her plan for that. Don’t even think about it, she told herself. Another voice asked, why not? She didn’t have to search far for the memory of the firm warmth of his lips against hers. The strong chest against her fingers. It was constantly in her mind. “Are you alright?” Daniel’s voice broke her from her reverie. “Yes, I’m fine,” she waved in the direction of the departing company. “He tried to scare me, I think.” Daniel snickered. “Looks to me as if he succeeded.” The three returned to their duties, the hope of a return visit strong in Elise’s mind. She related the story to her friend, Daniel agreed that Cody must have been testing her resourcefulness, and added what a help Joe would have been, had she not taken care of the situation herself, or if it were a true danger. When the weeds were clear, Elise and Daniel began dinner preparations. Daniel pondered how to teach Joe some English.
“If he stays, that is,” Daniel added, kneading the bread. “We still don’t know his plans…” Elise watched Joe through the window. He was working on the well, straddling the pump. “He’s a good man, isn’t he? I’m sure that if he were up to something, he wouldn’t start out by doing all this work around the ranch.” “I agree, Elise. I must admit, I was worried at first, when you brought him back with you, but I know your instincts were correct.” He winked at her. “That’s what you women do best with, your instincts. They usually don’t let you down.” **** While dinner simmered, Elise combed her hair and rolled it into a neat bun. She picked out a simple dress, forsaking the corsets she used to wear. Such garments were unnecessarily confining, even more so in the wilds of Wyoming. The light blue day dress fit her gentle curves without the bindings. It was less formal than most of her dresses, but she didn’t want her guests, Cody specifically, if he was to join them, to think that she’d dressed up for him. She sighed, smoothing the linen over her flat stomach. She remembered purchasing this particular dress on the day of her miscarriage. Jonathan had taken her out for her monthly showing in public, as she had come to regard them. She had wondered about his demeanor that day, since he sat scowling beside her in the carriage, but wouldn’t dare raise the question. The night that followed was one of the more violent beatings she’d lived through. The only good thing to come of that was the respite she’d earned. He didn’t speak to her for a week, and she hadn’t had to endure his painful physical demands for almost three. She assumed that she was unable to conceive now; it had been two years since. The spawn of Jonathan. Could she ever have loved a child born from violence? Sired by that cruel man? She’d asked herself the question many times over, but the answer remained. It would have been her child, first and foremost. Perhaps the baby would have been a greater catalyst in her departure. The thought of her husband’s bursts of anger, being wrought against a child, her child would have been too much to bear. The meal filled the home with a hearty aroma; dried onions sautéed in red sherry always made her mouth water and she shook her head to clear it of her dismal musings. Each horrific memory came with the realization that she was free from all that. She donned an apron to assist Daniel in the kitchen, praising him for the delicious spread. Even Joe popped his head into the kitchen window at times, grinning from ear to ear, licking his lips and rubbing his belly. Elise laid out the table, wondering if Thomas would talk Cody into joining them. The decision had not been made when they left this morning. She vowed to be on her best behavior. No distrust, just a nice neighborly visit. “They’re here.” Daniel announced. Elise lit the last dinner candle. They. Cody was with him. The skipped beat of her heart was unmistakable. Elise was almost angry at herself, for her body’s physical reaction to the news. She suppressed it. There was no time. Joe was out front to meet the men, their wagon filled with supplies. Elise assisted Daniel in the kitchen, preparing room for their purchases. Joe took the squawking
chickens around back to the new pen. Perhaps they would have eggs for breakfast! Elise giggled when the thought of eggs was enough to thrill her. “Come in!” Daniel opened the door, “I hope you boys are hungry, we’ve made enough food for ten men.” Elise took a deep breath and lifted her chin before turning to face the door. Thomas entered first, politely removing his hat and work gloves. Cody followed, setting his hat brim up on the chair beside the door. The room was dim, compared to the bright afternoon sun that had cursed their trip. They stood just inside the door, as their eyes adjusted. “It smells delicious.” Thomas grinned. Elise hadn’t said a word. She stared cautiously at Cody. He walked toward her, his eyes never leaving her face. When he was close enough to touch her, he inclined his head in greeting. “Good Afternoon, Elise.” His polite words were soft, and his quiet tone lent an intimate aura. His attention focused on the peach lip color she’d applied on a whim. Was it too audacious? “Good Afternoon,” she answered, trying to sound confident. She wanted to keep her tone impersonal. His eyes danced across her face, but he said nothing more, before continuing to the hallway to join Thomas to wash for dinner. Elise forced herself to calm down as she and Daniel made the final preparations to the meal. When was the last time she had entertained? Nothing came to mind. Daniel set the dishes on the table while Elise left the house to find Joe. Try as she might, either Joe couldn’t understand, or he flat refused to join them at the table for dinner. She returned to the house shaking her head. “I think he’s Nez Perce,” Thomas said, cutting into his meat, “he has that look about him.” “He dresses like a white man,” Daniel said. “Maybe he’s a half-breed. That would explain his desire to be alone.” Cody spoke under his breath. “I don’t understand,” Elise looked from one man to the next. “Do the Nez Perce prefer solitude?” “No,” Cody narrowed his gaze on her, “but half-breeds are chastised by both races.” Elise cast her eyes downward, embarrassed for her fellow man. The idea that Joe had been taunted and teased as a child and even as an adult was too difficult to imagine. The small group moved from the dining room into the informal sitting area. Daniel went to the sidebar to prepare drinks. Thomas surveyed the house. “The V-Bar is really coming along. You’ve been busy.” Elise beamed, running her hand over the polished mantle. “It is looking more like the home that I remember. I only hope our hard work is reflected in the buyers’ bids.” Her jovial mood was doused when she glanced over to Cody. His face hardened into a black scowl. “Unfortunately, you won’t get a bid,” he said tightly. “I can’t sell the ranch without one.” “Your father did.” Elise’s face flushed. He had some nerve bringing this up as guest in their home! “I apologize that my father’s death stifled your plans. As it is, the sale of this ranch means a great deal to…” she broke off, and glanced at Daniel. She lifted her chin. “I will do anything in my power to keep from selling to you … with your plans to level it.”
He crossed the room to tower over her. That arrogant gesture only infuriated her even more. He looked down his nose at her, his eyes hard as flint. “You won’t get a bid,” he repeated, his voice ominous. Elise felt her face grow hot, even the tips of her ears burned. Still, she held her ground “Until I see proof that the V-Bar belongs to you, I must assume that it doesn’t.” “Even without the deed, it’s a well known fact throughout the area that my father and I have purchased the V-Bar. I doubt you’ll find someone in town who would want to go up against me.” Elise gasped. “That sounds like a threat,” she said. Cody was now so close to her that she could feel the heat from his body. “It isn’t a threat. It’s a fact. You can slave away for years fixing it up for sale, but the land is already mine.” The last five words were spoken with such conviction, that Elise felt her confidence slip. No. This was too important to her. Her new life hinged on this ranch, and its proceeds. She refused to cower like a beaten dog. This man would not ruin her plans. Her lips tightened, and she tried another tack. “You might be surprised that an old family friend from Virginia was considering a move out west. I could receive his letter any day now.” His eyes studied her face for an interminable moment before releasing a condescending snort. “You’re a horrible liar, Elise. I wouldn’t suggest you try that again. It doesn’t become you.” Her flush deepened, but undaunted, she continued. “The point is that there are more potential buyers out there than in Laramie City. I will not sell the ranch to you.” They stared each other down, their breathing audible. Only when her fingernails dug into her palms did she loosen her fists. She wanted to slap him. She wanted to scream; grab him by the ear and drag him out of her house. Of course she could do none of that, so she stoically continued to meet his challenging stare. “I wonder which is the greater crime,” he growled, “Trespassing, or selling something that belongs to someone else?” All the blood that had heated her face had now dropped to her toes. Cody slid his eyes toward Daniel who, along with Thomas, looked at their drinks during the heated exchange. He raised an eyebrow when he turned his attention back to Elise, but he quickly lowered it into his original scowl. Her heart dropped a little more when she realized she and Daniel had again stepped out of character. Damn! “Thank you for dinner,” he all but hissed before stepping away from her. Elise stood in shock as he grabbed his hat on his way through the door. Thomas stood stock still as well. When the closing door echoed through the house, he tossed his drink down, and rushed to follow his boss. “Dinner was delicious. Ma’am … Daniel,” Thomas tipped his hat, outwardly embarrassed for his swift departure.
Chapter Six The bell on the shop door rang out with an irritating jangle. Jonathan crossed the threshold and walked purposefully up to the counter. His eyes took in the cluttered shelves lined with a plethora of abandoned trinkets. “What can I help you with, sir?” asked a grey-faced man who perked up at the sight of his sole customer. Jonathan was used to over solicitous clerks who would drool at the sight of him. He liked being well known in the area for his lavish spending. Normally he enjoyed the attention, but after searching umpteen shops today, his patience was wearing thin. This one looked promising. He could imagine that the derelict who sold the ring feeling quite comfortable in a lowly place like this. “I’m looking for a ring,” he said tersely. “My wife’s specifically.” The shop keeper waved him over to the glass counter. “All of our jewelry is in this case right here, sir,” he tumbled over himself to show his wares. “Not sure what your wife would like…” “No,” Jonathan snarled, “They are her belongings, sold without permission.” He was irritated from repeating the scenario yet again. The clerk looked dumbfounded. “Sir, I hope you don’t think Heirlings would ever sell stolen property. I can assure—” “You aren’t too bright are you?” His wrinkled mouth opened and closed like the dank fish he was. “I said it was sold. I just want it back.” The clerk tugged on his bushy white sideburns in agitation, but he seemed to correctly read his customer’s demeanor, and backed away. Jonathan scanned the display. When he saw what he had been searching for the last three days, his peripheral vision blackened. Gold filigree band, three emerald-cut stones, two garnets set on either side of a larger diamond. He could only focus on that piece of jewelry; for so long that when spots formed in his eyes, he had to consciously begin breathing again. “There,” he announced, his lips barely moved with the words. “Give me that ring.” He pointed it out The clerk fumbled for the ring. Jonathan’s jaw tightened. Here it was, the inscription declaring his forever devotion, ‘unto me eternally’. He slowly, painfully set the ring onto the counter; its impression remained in the pads of his fingers. “How much?” **** Elise waved at Joe and Daniel as they led Flame away. She was more than a little proud of herself for the travois she’d put together that was strapped to Flame. Now they could gather more firewood, and faster. When they disappeared from view, she grabbed the bucket from the back porch and walked toward the well. Thank God for Joe! He knew just what to do to repair the pump. The steady supply of fresh water was very handy. She
filled the bucket, then dipped a tin cup into the bucket and took a sip. Cold, clear, and delicious. The water sloshed over the side of the bucket as she lugged it into the house. The stew meat was seared and ready. By the time the men returned she would have dinner on the table. She grinned naughtily when she dropped huge chunks of onion into the pot. Jonathan hated onions. She flinched even now when she remembered the day he slung his plateful of food into the kitchen, just missing Amelia, and splattering food onto the walls. The plate shattered before he snarled, “There’s onion in the salad.” She added one more chunk, just for good measure. She would never irritate him deliberately, but she also wouldn’t pretend there wasn’t a kernel of satisfaction when he would frustrate himself to distraction. Like the night when she’d hidden herself in the closet during one of his more extreme drunken episodes. He’d torn the room apart, even looking into the very closet that she’d crouched in, but he wasn’t able to focus enough to see her, curled into a tiny ball, trying to stay as still as possible behind the clothing. It took forever for him to fall into a drunken sleep, only then had she had crept out of the hiding spot, put the bedroom back in order, and returned to her bed. The following morning, he just looked around, confused. He must have thought it was a dream. She smiled at the memory. She dared not try that again, or he would have caught on. It was pure heaven at the time. She’d escaped a beating, and without a doubt, a brutal rape. Elise set the knife down as the word echoed through her mind. Could what he’d subjected her to be called rape? He was her husband after all. Sex? That word more described the barren act. Certainly not lovemaking. She resumed chopping the potatoes. Even on her wedding night he’d hurt her in his haste. First physically, and then when she’d cried, the disgusted look he gave her before dousing the light was still clear in her mind. Had she ever really loved him? She thought back to the days they had courted. She’d been charmed by him at the beginning. Always the gentleman, he gave the impression to anyone observing that he was proud of her when he escorted her into town. Polite, attentive, leading her through their courtship while she floated along on a cloud. When he’d asked her father for her hand, there wasn’t any reason for Edward to refuse. It had all been an act. Leaving the meal simmering, she gathered the vegetable peelings and took them outside for the chickens. They didn’t seem excited about their treat, but one waddled over to peck at the scrap. Suddenly, the hair stood up on the back of her neck, and Elise stood stock still. Someone was watching her. Keeping her head steady, her eyes took in the naked land. There wasn’t any cover within her line of sight, just ankle high prairie grasses, some sagebrush … but behind her were trees. The stable, the ranch house itself. Someone could be watching her from there. Whoever was out there wasn’t welcome. It wasn’t an affable presence. Slowly, with forced natural movements, Elise pivoted to lean her back against the fence, and listened. There was nothing. She looked for moving shadows around each tree. She studied the grasses to see if any were recently disturbed. Still nothing. Even the chickens in their pen were peaceful and calm. Everything was as it should be. The stillness was so absolute that she would have heard the approach of anything larger than a
jackrabbit. She released the pent up breath, and shrugged her shoulders so the muscles relaxed. After a few more moments she controlled her wayward heartbeat enough to allow her to search the property, her pistol at the ready. When she’d satisfied herself that her thoughts of Jonathan had caused her imagination to take over, she returned to the chicken pen, and refilled the water trough. The pen was so filthy, that she ended up spending the next hour inside, fighting off the noisy flapping of the agitated birds. She secured the door, watching in amusement until they settled down. **** Cody dusted his hands and stood. The ash covered ground was a sad reminder of the funeral pyre they’d constructed last week. One young bull had been stricken with respiratory disease and had to be put down before infecting the rest of the herd. He hoped it was contained. He mounted Scout, and walked the horse toward the nearby stream to water before heading home. When he reached the fence marking the V-Bar property, he reined Scout in. He’d sent a crew to tear down this section of fence weeks ago. He’d planned to use the V-Bar acreage to separate the bulls this winter. Why wasn’t it done? He jumped down. The post was new. There was still upturned earth beside it. The staples used to secure the wire were still shiny, without time to rust or discolor. Damn. Confound that woman. She’d re-strung the fence he’d ordered torn down. He kicked the post. If she’d painted a sign that read “keep out”, the message wouldn’t be any clearer. He swung into the saddle and spurred Scout over the fence. Damn if she’d keep him off of his own land. When he was close to the house, he saw her. He chuckled. There she was, the woman he’d imagined to be so prim and incessantly tidy, squatting in the chicken coop, gathering the waste, and flinching when the chickens squawked and fluttered in her way. He remembered her as a child. Not that they’d spent much time together. Mary’s mother wouldn’t let the girl out of her sight. They would make occasional trips to the Campbell’s to visit his mother. He always thought she was too prim and proper to live out here. He’d never seen her get dirty, let alone work among animal feces. Still, the wrinkle of her nose while she secured the pen door was adorable. She’d probably rush to the washbasin, he thought. Instead, she gazed out over the property, walking toward the empty corral and leaning against the rail. She was lovely. Even after the dirty job she’d done, he enjoyed the view. “You look lost in thought Elise.” She swung around to face him; one gloved hand went to her throat. The movement jarred her hat from her head, and it caught by the string to hang on her shoulders. He placed the hat back atop her head, and secured its string, his fingers brushing her neck. She was so warm. His fingers itched to caress the soft skin on her throat. He resisted. He pulled himself from his fantasy to meet her eyes “Yes, well … I thought I was alone…” her voice was quiet, hesitant. “Is that a veiled hint that I should leave?” He cocked an eyebrow. “No!” Elise exclaimed, and then added, “I mean … that’s not what I meant.”
He shrugged then shifted to face her. “I saw you mended the fence,” he gestured with his chin. She met his eyes steadily. “Yes we did. It was…” “Removed intentionally,” he finished for her. Color rose to her cheeks and he was reminded of their last conversation. Then as now, he wanted to both alternately shake sense into her and kiss her mindless. “That would explain why the post and wire were nowhere to be found,” she said, not the slightest bit apologetic. “If you came here to start in on me for the work I’m doing, you can just turn right around and trot home, Cody Campbell. I will not stand here and argue with you again.” He was fascinated by the movements of her lips, even if they were forming words borne of irritation. She wasn’t wearing any peach color on her lips today. Still, they looked soft, moist … and completely kissable. Dammit. “I don’t want to argue with you Elise.” He was surprised to find that he didn’t. It was his intention when he jumped the fence, but now… She eyed him with distrust, but didn’t say anything, so he continued. “You looked at peace just now, what were you thinking about?” Elise removed her filthy gloves, and tossed them toward the pump. “I am amazed at the pure peacefulness of this land or are you so used to it, that it doesn’t hold as much awe?” He leaned next to her, his elbow close to hers. She was right, the beauty of the land was not as stirring to him, as the view he’d had of her admiring it. “I’ll never forget, one year my father invited an old friend from Massachusetts out to visit.” Cody adjusted his hat, to shade his eyes. “The man had never seen so many stars. At the time I thought he was joking, I was just a boy. I couldn’t imagine the sky without them.” He looked at her, hoping his anecdote hadn’t been lost on her. “The city lights block them.” “That’s what they say,” he shrugged, “I can take city life for about five days, and then I need to get out.” “I can see why,” she answered. They continued to enjoy the silence, with only the occasional cricket or bird chirping. “You don’t miss Virginia?” he asked, keeping his eyes trained forward. “I miss my friends. Well, the housekeeper.” She laughed self-consciously, “My family is all gone now. The solitude here is much different than what I knew in Virginia. I hated being alone there.” She looked his way, then pulled her lower lip into her teeth and lowered her eyes. His eyes drifted over her, taking in each feature. The knot of anger that drove him over here had faded. He had expected her to still be upset with him after their confrontation after dinner that day. Hell, he hadn’t expected to be able to set foot on the property. His property, he amended. “I’m sorry about the other day. My mother would be appalled at my rude behavior,” he grinned. “I apologize also. I usually don’t get so angry; I don’t know what came over me,” she returned his smile. Again he adjusted the brim of his hat, inadvertently moving a step closer to her. Too close. He knew his arm touched hers most inappropriately. He agreed with the warning
that sounded deep in his brain. Yes, he should step away from her. The fact that he could feel her warmth through their shirtsleeves was a sure sign that he was too close. His body had other ideas though; his feet refused to obey the direct orders from his brain, and he remained where he was. Long moments passed. The silence wasn’t uncomfortable. Cody felt the pressure of her head on his shoulder and smiled. A lone rabbit scurried through the grass before them, stirring up crickets and small white butterflies. Still, they remained quiet observers. When her proximity became more than he could bear, He turned toward her, and gripped her arms, intending to set her further away from him. That proved to be a bad move, because though she was no longer pressed against his arm, she was now looking up at him in wonder, her eyes heavy, lips parted. Cody swallowed hard, the invitation so clear, so hard to talk himself out of. The lurch in his chest was easy enough to discount, but it took some heavy concentration to force the swelling behind his fly into submission. His head bent down slowly, of its own volition. Her tongue darted out to moisten her lips. He desperately wanted to taste the dew she’d left there. God, was he without a woman for so long that the mere moistening of her lips sent desire slamming into him with such force? He clenched his teeth, but still his body threatened to override his mind. He couldn’t kiss her. He wouldn’t. “Damn,” Cody hissed. He stiffened his arms, keeping her far enough away from him to stifle the urge to pull her body against his. He’d never had to war with his own being in such a way. Yearning volleyed with morality with such intensity that his muscles twitched with the strain. He had to get her off his mind. It wasn’t right for him to feel this way, to want this woman. It was wrong. He told himself this, until he had the strength to release her arms and take a step back. He cleared his throat, forced his desire to subside; its physical manifestation was a different story. “I’m sorry, Elise.” She regarded him steadily, her eyes still clouded. He never should have kissed her. Knowing now how her mouth felt beneath his, how her body fit his better than any other he’d touched … it was hell. She belonged to another man. Off limits. He’d never again feel that tongue against his. The firm curve of her breast … he pinched his eyes closed. He wished he didn’t know. “It’s not right…” his eyes lingered on the wild pulse beating at her neck. “I can’t…” He couldn’t find the words. He prided himself on his scruples, and adultery was certainly not something he would ever consider. Elise bowed her head. “I understand…” a blush colored her cheeks. He studied the crown of her head for long quiet moments. You did it. You let her go. Congratulations. Now get your ass back on your horse and get the hell out of here. “I should be going,” he said. She nodded, her eyes still secured to the toe of her boot. He didn’t even turn around once he’d mounted Scout and rode away. Another victory. If he couldn’t keep his hands off of her, he’d damn well better stay on the other side of that fence. His father would be home soon. He’d show her the deed … she’d leave. Over. He spurred Scout into a full run.
Chapter Seven Following that embarrassment, Elise vowed to keep herself busy with the restoration of the V-Bar. The sooner she made the repairs, the sooner they would be able to sell the property, thereby leaving Wyoming once and for all. After helping Joe repair a few sections of the fence, she was convinced that she could attack some of the smaller jobs on her own. She’d packed a snack, gloves, a hammer, some rounded staples and a small shovel onto Flame’s haunches. “I’ll be back soon.” She waved at Daniel and Joe as she rode away. She started with a section a few hundred yards away from the house, which didn’t look too difficult, the barbed wire had come loose from the post, and only required a few nails to reattach it. The wire wouldn’t cooperate; it bent at a difficult angle, causing her to add another staple to secure it. The job would be much easier without the large leather gloves she wore, but one look at the sharp barbs was enough to convince her to keep them on. Pleased with her work, she gave a satisfied laugh, and stood. She nearly jumped from her skin, when she saw a large stallion staring at her. The horse was a beautiful golden blonde, much like the color of her own head of hair, she mused. He wore a bridle, but no saddle. “Well hello,” she spoke softly. How the animal had made it to her land, she didn’t know, and he’d crept up on her without so much as the crack of a twig, although she’d been making quite a racket with her hammer. “Where did you come from, boy?” She approached the horse, but he backed away, his black eyes widening in fear. She stopped in her tracks, and smiled gently. “You’re a very handsome fellow, aren’t you?” Her voice softened. Perhaps he was one of Cody’s. She should make sure he got back on his side of the fence. “Come on, now. Let’s go home.” She again moved toward the beautiful stallion. At her approach, the animal bucked wildly, then turned and galloped away. Strange, she thought. The bridle made her think that the horse was broken, but its behavior said otherwise. Shrugging, she walked toward Flame, who waited in the shade, watching the other horse as he disappeared over the hill. She continued along, stopping only when she came across loose strands of wire that could be reattached without too much effort. With each repair, her confidence improved until she began to feel quite proud of herself. The sun beat down on her back which she’d crouched over a particularly difficult post. She stood and arched over her hands placed in the small of her back. At the popping sound, she released a gratified sigh. She took in her surroundings. There wasn’t much shade to be had on this side of the property. Only one cluster of pathetic-looking evergreen trees, which the wind had caused to grow a bit lopsided. She was on the other side of the acreage from the little oasis where she’d met Joe. She pulled out her canteen and took a long draw. The water was warm, but it quenched her dry throat. She repacked the canteen and hammer onto Flame’s saddle. Her solitude suddenly turned from relaxing to eerie. Something in the air had changed. She looked around her, sure that she would spot someone. Something wasn’t right. Someone was watching her. Again.
Grasping the handle on her pistol, she scanned the terrain, even pivoting full circle. No one was there. She was alone. But she didn’t feel alone. Someone could be hiding behind one of the evergreens. Who could it be? Jonathan? Someone he’d hired to find her? No, besides, there wasn’t a way that anyone could walk the distance necessary to reach her. Not without alerting her. The Arapaho were known for their stealthy ambushing… No, she told herself. Nobody’s there. Stop acting like a frightened child. Total freedom was something new to her. It would take some getting used to, that’s all. Blood coursed through her veins, creating a rushing sound in her ears. She took a deep breath. You’re alright. No one’s there. Nevertheless, she mounted Flame without haste, and wiped her moist palms on the legs of her jeans. Jerking the reins, she turned flame back toward the house. The afternoon shadows were growing longer anyway. She didn’t relax until the V-Bar was in sight on the horizon. She couldn’t wait to tell Daniel about all she’d accomplished. She knew her father would have been happy to see her here, living the life he had always wanted. There was the V-Bar porch, where Mary Elise had stood as a child, waiting for her daddy to return at the end of each day. These corrals housed Edward’s cherished livestock. If she closed her eyes, she could still see him riding his favorite black stallion toward the house, just as she was now. She sensed his presence in every part of the land, his land, which was imbued with his spirit. She blinked, releasing a bittersweet tear. “I love you daddy!” Elise shouted to the sky, grinning, imagining his response. She spurred Flame into a full run, the pounding of her hooves drumming an exciting beat in the otherwise silent afternoon. Her hat blew off of her head and fell, hanging by its string, around her neck. She slowed the pace, laughing aloud. In Virginia, the loneliness was inescapable, and became torture. Now, here, she was just as isolated, but she’d become her own best friend. Of course there was Daniel, Joe, Thomas, and Cody. She sighed. Just the thought of Cody caused her blood to run hotter. Perhaps it was her isolation that caused her feelings for this man. Maybe in Salt Lake City she would meet so many new friends, that she would have the ability to discern between attraction and pure loneliness. She put the hat back atop her head, when the setting sun hit her full in the eye. She rode to the V-Bar’s stable, meeting Joe at the door. “S'ik'em … visit?” Joe asked, pointing behind her. Elise peered over her shoulder, seeing the lone stallion, once again, a safe distance away, watching them. Elise laughed. “Yes, a visitor.” she shrugged, “I’m not sure, Joe.” The horse continued to watch them, as if waiting for something. Joe helped Elise from the saddle, and then walked toward the stallion. Again, the animal bolted away. Elise shook her head in wonder, and led Flame into the stable. She emerged from the dark stable, brushing the horse hair from her pants. Joe, walked near the horse, but purposefully ignored it. He kept his eyes averted, and walked away, then back again toward the animal. It was like a strange dance, Joe was obviously doing something, but it looked odd to her, how he seemed to pay no attention to the horse, then again, solely focused on it. This went on for some time, until, surprisingly, the horse actually approached Joe, and nudged his shoulder with his nose. Elise rushed inside to get Daniel. What an amazing sight, it looked as though Joe was somehow speaking to the horse!
From the kitchen window, so as not to disturb the two, Daniel and Elise watched the exchange between man and animal. Soon, Joe led the horse by its reins to the stable. The horse followed complacently, seeming to feel at home. Moments later, Joe emerged, and calmly walked away. Elise and Daniel met him on the porch, assailing him with questions, few of which he could understand. “Okay. Campbell horse,” he said. “Cody’s horse?” Elise was confused. There is no way that Joe actually spoke to the animal, so just how did he get that information? “Mmm hmm… Rope, uh…” he motioned to his cheek, trying to find the word. “The bridle?” Daniel understood, and Joe nodded, “The Campbell brand must be on the bridle somewhere,” he explained to Elise. “We should return him. I can imagine Thomas is looking for him.” Elise checked through the window, half expecting to see Thomas riding across the plains. “Home him tomorrow,” Joe said, stretching in the sinking sun. The mountain air cooled after dark, even in midsummer. They took their meal on the back porch, watching the eagles fly majestically overhead. Daniel said he hoped to see one swoop down onto its prey, but he was disappointed. Elise again felt the beat of her heart growing stronger, as she watched the birds, freedom personified. How she would love to be flying with them. The following morning, the Campbell ranch bustled with activity. Elise wondered just how many hands Cody had employed. Many of the men stopped their work, watching the two horses approach. It seemed as though visitors were unusual enough, let alone a woman. They must have recognized the stallion carrying her, and Elise grew uncomfortable with their stares, but still greeted each with a smile and polite “Hello.” “Damnation!” Thomas exclaimed when he saw them. “How the hell… I mean,” he cleared his throat, “How in the world did you break that stallion?” Elise laughed, now understanding the curious stares. “Joe did it. Don’t ask me how, even though I witnessed it myself,” she hopped down from the horse. “I wouldn’t believe it if I heard it.” The stallion allowed Elise to lead him to Thomas, who looked dumbstruck. “He had to have jumped the fence. I found him watching me repair some, and I think he was amused.” She grinned. Thomas stroked the animal’s neck. Elise related the story to Thomas, as they brought the horse to the trough. Joe stood beside his own horse, oblivious of the conversation about him. Thomas said that the Nez Perce had a reputation of fine horsemanship, and they again wondered about Joe’s heritage. Elise looked around, not wanting to admit that she was searching for Cody. He emerged from the bunkhouse, carrying a saddle and stopped in his tracks when he saw Elise standing beside Thomas. She smiled when his eyes went from her to the stallion and back. “Hello, Elise.” His manner was contained and cool. “Cody,” she nodded, “I believe this beautiful animal belongs to you.” She reached over and patted the horse’s shoulder. “Apparently Elise’s handyman has a way with them.” Thomas repeated Elise’s story, while the three watched Joe, who waited patiently for Elise. “We were about to give up on him,” Cody explained, “We tried tethering him to a
stake, other horses … everything. He’d usually run a few hundred yards, and then return around feeding time.” He ran his hand along the animal’s haunches. “I can’t believe this is the same horse!” Elise was charmed by Cody’s enthusiasm. He looked at the horse with a mixture of awe and tenderness. This must be the first time the stallion had allowed any contact. The hard planes of his angled face softened in a reverent expression. It was clear that Cody cared a great deal for his animals. This new soft side to his personality was very appealing, as if he needed more appeal, she thought. “You rode him here?” Cody asked, eying the blanket tossed over the stallion. “Yes, we didn’t have a saddle, but I don’t think he was ready for one even if we had.” She smiled. “You rode bareback?” his brows shot up. She nodded again, now conscious of his penetrating gaze. “You are lucky he had the bridle, which was what tipped Joe off to his owner.” “Cody Campbell!” He was admonished from the porch. “Have you offered your guests a drink?” A plump woman stood on the porch, arms crossed in disapproval. Cody smiled sheepishly at the woman. “Not yet, Emily,” He turned back to Elise and Joe. “Would you care for a drink?” His tone was playful and sarcastic, teasing the woman whom he introduced as his housekeeper. **** “My, you are a pretty thing,” she told Elise after she led them inside. Elise blushed, and thanked her for her kind words. The house, Cody’s home, was much larger than her own. It was grandly furnished, in a very masculine style. The dark wood walls were tastefully decorated with oil paintings, and the odd hunting trophy. It looked as though Emily was the only female on the homestead. “Elise, you have to tell us, exactly what did your man do to that stallion?” Thomas was excited, like a child at a sideshow. “If you knew what we had been through with that animal. We’ve spent hours trying to break that stubborn beast. I think each one of our hands was thrown at least once attempting to tame him…” “I wish I saw the whole thing, Thomas,” Elise tried to give him as much detail as she could. “It was like they were talking … it was communication of some sort, I know.” She laughed. “That sounds silly, doesn’t it?” “And he let you ride him back here?” Thomas’ brows were drawn together and he would cast occasional glances through the window where the horse in question nibbled on the tall grass beside the porch. “Well, I rode him, but he hasn’t mastered directional commands. I think he was mainly following Flame’s lead. I’m sure he’ll pick it up quickly enough though, he’s very smart. And a most beautiful animal,” she said, watching Cody run his fingers through his hair, tousling it appealingly. He caught her eye, and she looked away embarrassed, realizing her double entendre. She couldn’t help wondering how that hair would feel in her hands. Heat flooded her body. She’d relived that kiss more than once in the past few weeks, and when she allowed her thoughts to wander further, she was almost able to feel his hands on her. Now wasn’t the time to lose herself in fantasy, so she turned her attention to her surroundings. Only when she believed her color had returned to normal,
was she able to speak. “Your home is very nice, Cody.” “Thank you,” he replied, with a smile. “But if it weren’t for Emily, it would look a lot like the bunkhouse.” Thomas chuckled along with Cody at this. Elise smiled, not quite sure what he meant. “I remember when we had a crew of cowboys on the V-Bar.” She mused. “The ranch was much more … alive then.” She stood, watching out the large picture window at the activity outside. “Yes. Well, they can get a little rowdy at times.” “The two I met last week seemed very nice.” She smiled at Thomas. “Thomas brought them to my ranch, while he was out.” Cody shot a strange look Thomas’ way. “Who was that?” he asked Thomas. “Paul and Leroy. We were out clearing some timber.” Elise wondered why Thomas looked guilty, and what caused Cody’s mouth to tighten. “It’s always nice to have visitors,” she said quietly, unsure of the tension. She searched for something to say. “What is the stallion’s name?” she asked Cody. “I haven’t named him,” Cody shrugged, “I like to see the temperament of an animal, before I name one. The only names I came up with for that guy weren’t polite enough to use in a proper name.” He grinned. “Maybe now I can find a suitable one.” “I see,” Elise surveyed the commotion outside, realizing that she’d interrupted their daily routine. “Do horses jump the fences often?” “Any of ‘em can jump a fence if they want, usually only when spooked.” Thomas explained. “It’s the threat of the unknown, and the promise of food and shelter that keeps ‘em home. That stallion had no fear, which was what drove him away.” She gazed through the window for a few moments longer. “I should be going … I just wanted to return your stray.” She didn’t want to go. She wanted to stay, to watch a ranch in full swing, but she reluctantly stepped onto the porch. Again, many of the cowboys eyed her with interest, which made her uncomfortable. She wasn’t used to such attention. Joe had been waiting patiently in the shade of the stables, smoking a cheroot. “Before you go, we’ve just gotta show you Cody’s newest project.” Thomas laughed at Cody’s exasperation and they led her to a building not far from the stables. It too had a wooden corral surrounding three sides, and a large swinging door. She heard quiet squeals and snorts, but it took quite a few minutes to adjust her eyes to the dim lighting. Only then could she clearly see the cluster of pigs.“Ohhh they are adorable!” Elise couldn’t help smiling. Cody swung his long legs over the pen, and picked up one of the tiny piglets. He brought it to her, and she reached out to scratch his little nose. “I didn’t know you raised pigs, Cody!” She scratched the animal behind its tiny ears. She knew that she had stepped a bit closer than was necessary, and felt a bit bold, but she didn’t move away. Neither did he, she noticed. She hoped her physical reaction to his nearness wasn’t obvious. Could he hear her unsteady breathing? “I didn’t plan on this,” he nodded toward the litter, “We bought mama, not knowing she was expecting.” He grinned. “We were just looking for a ham dinner.” Elise made a mental note not to get too attached to any of the Campbell livestock. She withdrew from the piglet. Cody laughed. “We aren’t slaughtering them right now!” She gave him a tight smile, but didn’t touch the pig again.
“Hey Thomas, Johnson needs ya,” a cowboy shouted from the doorway, then sauntered off. “Alright. Be right back.” Thomas left, mumbling something about Johnson’s ineptitude. Elise knew she shouldn’t be alone with Cody. She avoided his eyes and drew her arms closer to her body to keep from touching him “Would you like one?” That drew her eyes back to his. “Seriously?” She was still painfully close to him. Even without physical contact, the heat of his body warmed her like a bonfire in winter. “I … well; I don’t know … would I know how to care for one?” He shrugged, rubbing the piglet in his arms under his scruffy chin. “Pigs aren’t hard. Feed ‘em and give ‘em shade. When they’re ready, of course. They have a few weeks until they are weaned.” He set the piglet down with his siblings, to fight over their mother’s teats. He hopped back over the corral, to stand near her. “I think I would like that, Cody. You’ll have to let me know when they will be available for sale.” She smiled up at him. “I can’t promise to serve him to you, though.” “I figured as much,” he shook his head, “Just like a woman,” he teased. The piglets were wiggling and grunting, pushing one, and then another away from a teat, all while the sow lay placidly on her side. Elise giggled. “Mmmmm, bacon, ham…” Cody teased, whispering close to her ear. His warm breath caused her to catch her own. “Stop it you beast,” she shoved her shoulder against his chest, making him back away from her. He laughed loudly, a rich sound, making her laugh along with him. When she looked his way, she saw how the amusement played across his face his teeth shone white against his tanned skin; one eyebrow quirked just a touch higher than the other over eyes that twinkled in amusement. “You are incorrigible.” She shook her head in mock despair. “Yes I know,” he returned to her side, his eyes never leaving hers. She felt herself being drawn closer; like she could crawl into those dark pupils and never come out. She couldn’t look away. The intensity of his steady stare rendered her immobile. His eyes dropped to her mouth. Elise wondered if he was recalling the kiss beneath the laundry. She could practically feel his eyes on her lips, and when they reconnected with hers, she read the unspoken question in their depths. A tight knot formed in her throat, constricting her breath. She opened her lips to assist in drawing oxygen into her lungs. He released an airy groan. His mouth closed over hers. His tongue sought hers, his mouth hard against her lips, asking. Demanding. She slipped her arms around his back, the muscular hardness of it so enticing; she had to press her entire body against his. Her breasts swelled, filling with the hot blood of desire and pouting her nipples until she knew the uncharacteristic impulse to grind them against the hard muscled wall. He removed his mouth from hers to burn a path of kisses from her ear to her nape. She whispered his name. It was so delicious on her tongue, she just had to say it again. Her hands smoothed up his back and into the dark strands of hair that had fascinated her earlier. Just as she thought, the texture of those thick locks was wonderful. His scent, his heat … the vision of his dark face bent over hers; he’d encompassed each of her senses, blacking out all else as superfluous. “Cody…” she
moaned. “I’ve never…” Cody’s head snapped up. “Christ,” he pushed her away from him. Her eyes slowly focused on his, the separation unwanted, and unexpected. “Elise, stay away from me.” His voice was stern. She shook her head in confusion. What just happened? “I mean it, don’t come near me again.” The mouth she’d just been warmly assaulted with, now set in a thin line, the muscles at the corners tightened. “What … what do you mean?” His eyes were now cold, accusatory. “You heard me. Don’t touch me.” “But…” she reached a hand out to his arm. “I mean it!” he shouted, and flung her arm away, as though it singed him. “I will not…” He lowered his voice, “I will not dishonor Daniel this way.” His eyes slid down her in contempt. “I can’t believe that you would either.”
Chapter Eight “I’m not interrupting anything, am I?” Thomas said when he saw the couple. “Of course not,” Cody snapped. “Elise is going to take one of these pork chops off of our hands, that’s all.” He waved in the general direction of the litter of pigs. The quick change and flash of anger in his eye frightened her. Thomas just stood in the doorway looking from one to the other. “I should be going,” Elise said quietly. Cody’s reaction shocked her. She was mortified. She hurried from the building to find Joe. “Let’s go home Joe,” she now wanted to get as far away from the Campbell ranch as she could. Joe assisted her in mounting Flame, then took the reins to lead them away. She risked a glance over her shoulder, and saw Cody and Thomas watching her departure, Cody’s expression stoic, Thomas’ akin to pity. For once Elise was glad that Joe had no conversational expectations. She used the return trip to review the day’s events. The sensations that engulfed her in Cody’s embrace were new. Exciting. Thrilling. She’d lost herself in his kiss; that wasn’t novel. She always separated herself from the act. Today though, she didn’t want to slip away, she wanted to feel. The only slip from reality came from the desire to get closer to Cody. Instead of being paralyzed by fear, she’d been unable to remain still; her body became a stranger to her. It was a good thing Cody put a stop to it. With his flashing eyes pinning her to the floor. Enraged eyes. Disgusted. Just as he should be. She bowed her head in shame. She was a married woman. She’d thrown herself at this man. It was no wonder he was repulsed. No wonder he told her to stay away from him. Which she would. She forced her chin up. It shouldn’t be difficult. She would stay closer to home, and if he happened to come over to the V-Bar, she would find something to keep herself busy. He could conduct his business with Daniel or Joe. Piece of cake. “What do you know about pigs, Joe?” She asked, when the trip came to an end. “Pigs. Eat,” he said simply. Elise laughed, his response reminding her of Cody’s. She brushed the dust and horsehair from her clothes, and entered the house, warm and inviting, with dinner on the stove. “Oh Daniel, dinner smells delicious.” Normally, Elise would have shared her story with Daniel, her most trusted confidant. She could have used the advice, but she kept silent. During the meal, Daniel asked her what was on her mind, but Elise just waved a dismissive hand, and blamed fatigue. She buried herself in a book until she was unable to keep her eyes open. Still, sleep didn’t come easily. Her body was edgy, filled with the need to scratch an itch she couldn’t quite find. Each time she closed her eyes she saw Cody’s face in that suspended moment just before he lowered his head and kissed her. She could still taste the unique flavor of his velvety tongue. Even the flare of anger in his dark eyes caused her heart to beat faster, keeping sleep at bay. When she did fall into a restless sleep, it was only to
have disturbingly sensual dreams about Cody. The next morning, Elise woke with a new resolve. She wouldn’t let him get under her skin. She was here for one purpose, to sell the ranch, and move on. There was nowhere in her plan for anything else. Feelings for this man would only complicate things. Her best bet was to avoid him at all costs. Elise kept herself busy, throwing herself into the work of the small ranch. Three days later, she stood back to marvel at the condition of the house, with a new coat of paint making all the difference, giving it a fresh appearance. She was covered in white speckles, from paint splatter, and once again filled the bathtub to scrub it away. She dressed in her most comfortable housedress and tied on an apron to help with dinner preparations. “Can you believe we’ve been here almost two months?” Daniel mused over supper. “The time is just flying by!” Elise agreed. The plan was to stay four months at the most. Halfway there. “So what’s next?” Elise looked at her list, with more items crossed off than not. “A few sections of fencing, but we ran out of barbed wire, the leak in the stable roof … Joe can get that done as soon as we get the shingles. We need to go into town.” As if on cue, Thomas arrived the next day, Camille hitched to the same wagon they’d ridden in from Laramie on their first day. “What a coincidence. Joe and I were just on our way to town!” Daniel tightened the strap on Flame’s saddle “I told ya I was gonna be by sometime this week,” he hopped down from his seat, “You ready to go?” he asked Elise. “I’m staying here,” she explained. Enticing as a trip to town was, she also wanted to indulge in an afternoon of feminine pampering. She watched the men depart, promising to carry her pistol while they were gone. An hour later Elise put her book away in the bookcase, after finishing the last few chapters. She thought about choosing another, but decided instead to check on the chickens. The coop was in need of another good cleaning, and now was as good a time as any. That way, she wouldn’t feel guilty about a bath or nap. She changed into some dungarees and a comfortable shirt, intending to cover as much skin as possible in preparation for the nasty job ahead. “Maid service,” she announced, giggling when she entered the coop. The chickens squawked and flapped their wings in protest. “Settle down, I’m not going to hurt you.” The chore was dirty; she wrinkled her nose through most of it. She sang an old tune her mother had always sung to her, which seemed to calm the chickens. As she worked, despite her best efforts, her mind stubbornly returned to Cody. Why did he have to be so handsome? This would be no struggle at all had he been a grouchy old man. Did she wish she’d never met him? No, she admitted. Thanks to him, she now knew that there could be another man in her life. She should be happy that each of her senses was now awakened. She could chalk it up to a learning experience in her life. Her new life. Her unencumbered … free … single life, she amended. It was a good thing that she would rarely see him; these lessons were tough. She would just have to continue to avoid him, to keep these strange new feelings at bay. Some day, when she’d lost herself in society so that Jonathan couldn’t find her, she would trust herself to experience them again. She knew her time here was short.
She didn’t want to see him again anyway. She continued to sing, the song clear in the silent atmosphere. Even the chickens were quieted. She buried the waste, not sure what else to do with it, but this way predators wouldn’t be attracted to the scent. She stood back, admiring her work. “Much better, right?” she said to the chickens. She looked down, and saw how dirty she’d become. Laundry was next on the list. She put the shovel back in the stables, and brushed the hay from her clothing as much as she could. The snort of a horse made her jump from her skin. She spun around. It took a few seconds for her to realize that it was Cody’s riderless stallion. It terrified her that she’d relaxed her guard enough to allow an animal of this size to approach her without her noticing. What if it were Jonathan? She knew better than to focus on one task so completely. “You little sneak,” she admonished, “why do you keep doing that?” She spoke as though expecting an answer. Her reflection shone in his black eyes while he listened. She imagined his silent acceptance of her words to be understanding, so she continued. “I’m just glad it’s you and not … him.” She stroked his golden neck. “He’s a beast, you know. He’s more of an animal than you. Certainly wilder,” she giggled, then stood back to give him a studious once-over. She could picture this horse in the wild, standing proudly against a mountainous background, guarding his herd against danger. “Now, you need to get back home, boy. I don’t want to be accused of horse-thievery.” She looked toward the Campbell ranch, but didn’t see anyone searching for him. “Alright, let me get some things. Stay here.” The horse followed her to the house, and waited at the back door. She gathered a canteen, her pistol, and her hat. She checked her appearance in the mirror. Although she would try her best to avoid Cody, there was a chance they would meet. The thought caused her heart to flutter. “Stop it,” she told herself aloud. “He wants nothing to do with you. Leave him alone.” She decided to drop the horse off close to the ranch, and then walk back; no one would see her. “Alright, are you ready?” The horse approached her. She placed her hands on his back, and jumped to lean over him, then scrambled to swing a leg over to sit astride. “Well, that went better than I thought. Probably wasn’t the most graceful thing I’ve ever done.” She urged him into a trot, grasping his mane. Riding bareback wasn’t the most comfortable form of travel; the precarious state of balance caused more distress than the actual jarring of the canter. She experimented with different positions for her hands to take some of the weight from her bottom. The blanket she’d used the last time she rode this horse was a good idea, but she didn’t want to have to carry it back with her on foot. The reins had helped before also. She told herself that she could take the twenty minute ride this way, it wouldn’t kill her. They approached the fence separating the two ranches. Elise remembered her earlier trip with Joe, and how they coaxed the stallion to jump from the opposite side. She attempted to slow the horse to a stop, but he hadn’t mastered the art of human commands, and her tugs on his mane did nothing. If anything, the stallion sped up, heading straight for the fence! Oh lord, she thought, he’s going to jump it! She tried to slow him using her words, with nothing to grasp in preparation for the jump. “Whoa, boy. Stop, please!” she pleaded. He accelerated even more. She dismissed the fleeting idea of sliding down to the
ground before he jumped, but he was going much too fast now. She flattened against the horse, holding onto his mane with all her might, pressing her head against his neck, and squeezing his belly with her knees. When the horse jumped, her body lifted from the horseback, only to flop back against it when he landed, knocking the wind from her. She remained grasped to the horse’s neck; her legs fell to one side of the animal, and she dangled precariously by his mane, until he finally stopped. She dropped to the ground, catching her breath, in shock. She remained seated on the stiff groundcover, performing a mental checklist of each body part, and assessing any injuries. “Don’t do that again,” she said. The horse regarded her with interest. “It’s okay, I’m fine,” she said. The Campbell ranch wasn’t far; perhaps she should walk the remainder of the distance? No, she told herself after a quick look around, there weren’t any more fences for him to leap over. Again, she used her now sore arms to awkwardly lift herself enough to swing a leg over the horse’s back. He immediately trotted off, so she had to adjust her body to the jarring movements as she jostled along. The hypnotic cadence of the hooves sounded hollow on the dry ground. The tempo calmed her; rhythmic and lulling, like her mother’s heartbeat beneath her ear when she curled onto her lap as a girl. “You shouldn’t sneak up on people like that you know,” she admonished, “especially people like me who are on the run.” The horse twitched his ears at her words, but continued ambling through the stiff grasses, sagebrush and ground cacti as though she weren’t there. “He’ll come for me, you know. It’s only a matter of time,” she took a shuddering breath, “It wasn’t today, but it could be tomorrow.” She knew then that she’d always be looking over her shoulder. Waiting. Soon, the ranch was on the horizon, still too far away to make out any human activity. Elise wondered how close was close enough? Would the cowboys see the horse, and come for him? She had to be sure to be out of sight before that happened. There was a line of trees, zigzagging a path toward the house. She would use those as cover, until she was close enough to release the animal. She nudged the horse toward the grove, with a giggle. Her sneaky behavior lent a bit of excitement to her mission. She ducked her head, pressing her body flat against the horse’s mane to keep hidden. The trees were tall aspen, not much cover from the ground, the leaves were above their heads, but anything would help. “Almost home, young man.” She sat up, and attempted again to stop the horse, ensnaring the coarse hair of his mane in her fingers and gave it a gentle tug. “This is where I get off. You’ll have to go the rest of the way yourself.” This time, as though he’d learned, the stallion’s gate slowed until he stopped beneath one of the trees. Elise dragged her leg over the horse, surprised at how stiff her muscles were. She dropped to the ground, wincing at the tingling in her legs. She stroked the horse once more, and then pointed toward the ranch. “Go on … go home boy.” He stood motionless, her hand signals lost on him. She slapped his rear end, like she’d seen the cowboys do. Sure enough, the horse started, and began to trot away. Elise smiled when he jogged toward his home. Just as she was about to turn away for her own home, she saw the horse turn around, and jaunt back her way. She laughed out loud. He was being difficult! His name
just came to her, a perfect description of the horse. “Alright Boomerang. You win. I’ll take you a bit farther.” She again jumped up and scrambled onto his back, this time it didn’t take her as long to draw her leg across his wide back. “You know I can’t take you all the way. I told you why.” She continued to ride through the trees, meandering through the trunks, her eyes on the ranch, until she heard the distinctive rattle of a snake. Boomerang stopped, then bucked, whinnied, and tossed his head wildly, shaking her hands free from his mane. She panicked, releasing a tight squeal. “Boomer—” She grasped his mane again, since the horse continued to rear and kick, his movements too erratic to anticipate. Her back bowed and arched in order to keep her balance. Her knees tightened on Boomer’s ribs, but it didn’t help control her movements. She now saw the snake, poised for attack at the horse’s forelegs. Her fingers were tangled in his mane, but not securely enough to keep her steady. Still, there was no way she would let go in hopes of a better grip. Each strike of her body against his caused unbelievable pain. Boomerang brayed, his hooves pounding on the earth, stomping near the snake. One hoof made contact, crushing the coiled body, then he bucked again. “Boomer, stop!” Elise begged. His mane slipped through her fingers, now slick with perspiration. Boomer’s last toss released her completely, and she heard her surprised scream before her body was flung up and back. Her legs flailed in the air for what seemed like an eternity, until the back of her head hit a tree. The rocky dirt rushed to meet her, but before she could drop thankfully onto solid ground, everything went black.
Chapter Nine Elise opened her eyes; though her head throbbed so much that the movement caused a stab of pain. She blinked a few times until the piercing twinge subsided. She was lying on a large bed inside a dim room, but the tall ceiling was unfamiliar to her. She turned her head, and then groaned. Her muscles ached; her neck was stiff. She reached up to touch her forehead, and encountered a bandage wrapped around her temples. She rolled over and swung her legs over the side of the bed. Every muscle in her body was sore. Her head weighed a ton. She called on every muscle in her neck to lift her head upright. She sat still until the room stopped spinning. There was a basin on the table next to the bed; a folded cloth lay next to it. Where was she? Was this a hospital room? She couldn’t remember an illness. This certainly didn’t look like a hospital, the furnishings were not the sterile metal and white coverings she would have imagined. Suddenly, the door slowly opened, and a woman entered, carrying a bowl on a tray. “Oh Elise, you are awake!” The woman set the tray down on the table near the bed, and approached her. “You shouldn’t be up, dear, lay back down.” Elise complied, wondering how this woman knew her name. Her middle name. Who knew her middle name? No one had ever used it to address her. “I brought you some broth, but now that you are awake, maybe you are hoping for something more substantial?” The woman smiled at her, and adjusted the sheet. “Where am I?” Elise asked her voice hoarse from sleep. “Is this St. Anthony’s?” The woman looked at her curiously. “St. Anthony’s? Oh no, dear, this isn’t a hospital. You are here at the Campbell’s.” She assured her. “You had a nasty fall off of a horse a few days ago. Don’t you remember?” The woman fussed about her, fluffing her pillows, and checking her bandage, before moving across the room to open the drapes, allowing the waning light of dusk into the room. “No … I don’t remember. I was riding a horse?” Odd, she thought. I haven’t been on a horse since I was twelve, when I was living on our old ranch in Wyoming. “The men found you when they saw that stallion in the grove of trees. There was a snake there, stomped to death. We assumed that it spooked the horse, and you were thrown.” Elise tried to take it all in but nothing made any sense. “Where’s my father? Can I see him?” Again the woman gave her an odd look. “Your father is … isn’t here.” She sat on the bed next to her. Elise wondered where he could be. “How do you feel, Elise?” The woman touched her forehead with cool gentle hands. “I feel … fine I guess, my head hurts a lot, and … a little confused … what’s your name?” “Emily. We met briefly a few weeks ago. Don’t you remember?” Elise shook her head. Her mind was blank. “That’s okay, dear. Don’t worry; you have been unconscious for days. It will come back to you.”
“Are the Campbells neighbors of mine?” Elise hoped she wasn’t a burden on complete strangers. “Yes,” Emily said quietly, her brow wrinkled curiously. Emily studied her for long moments. Finally she stood and gave Elise’s leg a comforting pat. “Rest now, I’ll get you some fresh bread.” She left the room. Elise looked around again, the room completely unfamiliar. She looked through the window, only the sky visible from her bed. There weren’t any buildings. She must be on the very top floor of the Campbell’s house. She again pulled herself up to sit motionless on the side of the bed, until the throbbing in her head subsided. Perhaps if she saw her house from the window, she would remember who the Campbell’s were. Against the woman’s advice, she carefully stood, wincing at the ache in her legs. At the window, she propped herself against the arm of a chair, and almost fell to the floor, when the shock of the view weakened her knees. There were no buildings. No houses, no streetlights. Where was she? She had never seen such vast wilderness in her entire life, except as a child in Wyoming. Is that where she was? Wyoming? Yes, riding a horse. She looked down at herself; she was wearing a nightgown. She touched her head again. She wasn’t twelve. Was this a dream? “Elise, you shouldn’t be on your feet…” said a man’s voice. She faced him, and slid down into the chair. The man entered the room. She didn’t recognize him. He was tall. His hair was tousled, as though only combed through with impatient fingers. Dark whiskers shadowed a strong jaw. Caramel eyes narrowed on her. A very handsome man. “Where am I?” He knew her name … should she know him? He crouched beside her, looking deep into her confused eyes. “You are safe … here in my house.” He took her hands in his. She looked down at this, and wondered at his familiarity. “You are … Mr. Campbell?” His hands were warm on her cool skin. She wanted to clasp them to her, but of course she couldn’t. “Yes. Cody Campbell. You don’t remember me?” His eyes flicked from her eyes to the cotton bandage wrapped around her head. Elise shook her head in exasperation. “I should? We’ve met?” Cody nodded again. “Where am I? I’m not in Virginia, am I?” Elise was sure that if he would just tell her what she needed to know, she would remember everything. “No. You aren’t in Virginia.” He spoke to her like she was a frightened child. “You’ve come to Wyoming.” Just as she thought. “Does my father know I was hurt?” She studied his face, and tried to read the cues. He struggled with whatever was on his mind. Finally he answered her. “I’m sure he does.” “Daniel? Is he here?” “Yes, Daniel is … here. I’ve sent for him.” She relaxed at this news. Daniel could clear the air. Elise’s eyes darted around the room. She raised a shaking hand to her throat. A cold sweat appeared from out of nowhere to chill her skin. “Jonathan,” she whispered. “Where is he?” The blood drained from her head. Her
headache intensified, and the room swirled around her. She reached her unsteady hand out for the arm of the chair; she suspected she might faint. “Jonathan?” Cody shook his head in confusion “My husband … oh please … he can’t know…” Alone in a bedroom with a strange man? He would be livid. She clutched his hand. “Does he know I’m here?” “Your husband is Daniel. Not Jonathan. I think you are confused.” “No!” she said, her tone serious. She didn’t have time for any misunderstandings. Jonathan would be murderous if she wasn’t at home waiting for him. “Jonathan is my husband … he’ll be very angry … where is he? I need to go. I have to get home…” she struggled to stand, but Cody’s strong hand on her shoulder stilled her. “I don’t know who you’re talking about Elise.” Cody’s voice was reassuring. She was confused. Maybe she had been dreaming. “Daniel is your husband. He’s right down the road.” “Daniel is my butler!” Cody’s head jerked back as though he’d been clipped in the chin. Long moments passed and she began to doubt that he’d heard her. The rushing sound in her ears added to her weakened state but her hands still held a death grip on his. She implored him with her eyes, waiting for what seemed like a very long time for his response. His eyes swept over her, his brows drawn together. “Only Daniel is here with you.” Oh thank God. Jonathan wasn’t here. He wouldn’t know that she was talking to this man. Alone. The relief was so profound that she wanted to burst into tears. Instead she rolled her lips inward and secured them between her teeth, and nodded. “How long was I … asleep?” her voice shook, but she wouldn’t submit to a crying jag in front of this man. “Almost two days.” Elise digested the new information. She’d been at least two days without Jonathan. She was in Wyoming. Without him. The thought should have made her feel better, but until she knew where he was, what he was doing; she couldn’t relax. She swallowed hard and lowered her eyes. She saw his hand, gripped by both of hers. He had strong hands. Rough, but clean. There was a light dusting of hair on his wrist. Again, the impulse to press his hand against her breast was almost too much to ignore; she wished she could wrap his strength around her, burrow down inside it and never come out. “Thank you. Daniel is … coming soon?” She reluctantly released his hand. Her voice still quavered. “He should be here very soon.” “And Amelia?” “I don’t know who Amelia is, I’m sorry.” “She’s Daniel’s wife. I suppose she wasn’t able to…” she mumbled. Before she knew what he was doing, he reached up to graze her cheek with the backs of his fingers. Elise caught her breath. His touch set her nerve endings on fire. It could hardly be classified as a caress, their skin barely touched and his knuckles only skimmed across her jaw. It never felt this way when Jonathan touched her. Jonathan. If he saw her now, there would be hell to pay. She pulled away from Cody, his image blurred by unshed tears. “Please send Daniel in as soon as you see him?” She again clamped both lips
between her teeth to keep them from trembling. Cody stood. “I will. You must be hungry; Emily brought you some broth. Do you need help with it?” Elise eyed the bowl. She was hungry. The beef broth smelled delicious. “I think I can manage. Thank you Mr. Campbell.” Cody’s jaw tightened and his eye twitched in what could only be annoyance. He crossed to retrieve the tray. She looked down, and noticed her state of undress. She covered herself as best she could with her arms; her breasts were unrestrained beneath the thin fabric. She blushed deeply. “Is … is there a robe?” She had never been so naked in front of a stranger; a man, let alone one so good looking. She kept her eyes rooted to the floor. He set the tray back down, and remained with his back toward her, excusing himself. “I’ll get Emily to help you,” he said, before reaching for the doorknob. “Mr. Campbell?” He turned again to face her. “Why do you … does everybody use my middle name?” His smile was tender, but she read the curiosity behind it. “You told us it was what you preferred.” She didn’t have a response to that, and he didn’t seem to expect one. He shut the door quietly behind him. **** Emily shook her head when she left Elise’s room a short time later. Cody’s eyes were beseeching her. “She’s very confused. I don’t think she remembers anything of the past few months. She didn’t know that she was living in the V-Bar. I didn’t have the heart to tell her about her father, but she keeps asking about him.” Cody sighed. Physical wounds he could deal with. A bandage, a stitch, he could handle that. Something you could see, fix, and watch the healing process; that made complete sense to him. This was much more frightening. “Daniel should be here soon. He can help.” Cody stood at the front window, waiting for Thomas’ buggy. Daniel had resisted leaving Elise’s bedside, but Emily insisted. Thomas had taken him to the V-Bar to retrieve some belongings. The worry of the past few days had taken its toll on the household, Daniel hadn’t eaten or slept much, and Cody hadn’t left the house, his thoughts filled with the worst possible outcome. He rubbed a hand across his face and then remembered that he hadn’t shaved in days. Maybe that was why Elise hadn’t recognized him. He chuckled to himself, and went to retrieve his razor. “How is she? Emily said she was awake!” Daniel tossed his hat on the hall table. “She’s sore.” Cody said, blocking the hallway toward Elise's room. “She’s … confused, Daniel. She has no memory of her fall … or anything else, for that matter.” Daniel shot him a sharp look. “What do you mean, anything else?” Cody studied the older man with new awareness. Elise’s butler, not her husband. He wanted an explanation. He longed to know. He wanted to shake the man by his shoulders until he had the truth. He couldn’t. Not now. Eventually he would get to the bottom of it, but Elise was priority now. Cody shelved his frustration.
“She didn’t know she was in Wyoming. She didn’t know me … she doesn’t know … that Edward is dead.” “Amnesia.” Daniel nodded in understanding. He looked from Emily to Cody, then back. “Well, at least she’s alive. We can overcome this.” Daniel knocked, and then entered the room. **** It took her a moment to recognize him, the mustache was new, but his eyes were familiar. Safe. “Oh Daniel, I’m so glad to see you.” Elise smiled, close to tears. “I don’t know what’s going on. I don’t remember coming to Wyoming…” She leaned close to Daniel. “I don’t know who these people are…” she whispered. Daniel sat on the bed. “I know, Elise. You had quite a bump on the back of your head. Things will come back to you. Don’t worry, my dear. You are safe, well, and amongst friends.” “Daniel,” Elise began, not sure she wanted an answer to her next question, but she had to know. “Did I murder Jonathan?” The question, although not her intent, caused Daniel to smile. “No, Elise,” he patted her trembling hand. “As far as we know, that devil is still walking the earth.” Elise looked down into her lap. “I had some … very real dreams. We came here to get away from him, didn’t we?” Daniel nodded. “That man … Mr. Campbell … he’s very handsome. Are we friends?” Daniel smiled. “Yes, you are friends. Do you remember him from living here as a girl?” Elise’s eyes darted around, searching for the memories. “Cody … the Campbell boy … yes, I remember. He has … grown up, hasn’t he?” She studied his mustache for a moment before continuing. “He … thought that you were my husband.” Daniel’s face went from confusion to understanding. “Did you tell him that we weren’t?” “Yes, when I … asked about Jonathan.” An ominous cloud surrounded her. “That was wrong, wasn’t it?” “Don’t you worry about it, Elise.” Daniel pressed her hand between his. “We were pretending to be a married couple during our stay here. Just to avoid raising eyebrows.” He smiled. “Cody Campbell seems to be a very trustworthy man. I’ll explain everything to him.” Daniel spent the next two hours in the room, answering her questions. Elise cried onto his shirt front when she learned of her father’s death. She ate her fill of bread and soup, the delicious warmth filling her body with renewed energy. Daniel told her how she’d survived on spooned tea and broth for the last few days, and she was bound to be ravenous. Emily entered soon after to assist her with her toilette and a change into her own nightgown. She laid her head back against the fresh pillowcase. **** Cody looked up from pacing in the den. Daniel emerged from the room, casting a
final glance over his shoulder at Elise. “How is she?” Cody asked, now clean shaven, and wearing a fresh linen shirt. “She is still confused. I told her what I could … she is informed, but her memory still hasn’t returned.” Cody regarded Daniel. Now was the time. He had to know. “She asked about Jonathan.” Daniel gave one nod. “Sit down. I‘ll explain everything.” Long tense moments later, Cody slumped in a chair and stared at the rug between his feet. So many emotions. Anger. The stories Daniel had shared about Jonathan Stanton were enough to convince him that the man was despicable. Anyone who would treat a woman that way, let alone Elise, should be beaten to a pulp. Confusion, on so many levels. Jealousy. Yes, that emotion still plagued him. And then there was relief. Although Elise was still married, she’d left him. She wasn’t married to a man that Cody liked and respected. “Can I see her?” Daniel looked long and hard at Cody before smiling. “Yes … but don’t stay long, she is still exhausted.” Cody nodded, and then turned on his heel toward the bedroom. He knocked gently. “Elise? It’s me, Cody … Campbell.” At her permission, he stepped into the room. A lamp by the bed shone on her, making her glow angelically. She wore a robe, and didn’t look quite as self-conscious as she had earlier. “Your bandage is off, how do you feel?” He approached the bed, and she shifted to the center to allow him to sit next to her. She had washed, since her earlier meeting with him, the clean scent wafting to his nose. His eyes searched hers. “I’m sorry … what did you say?” He thought the blush on her cheeks was just about the prettiest thing he’d seen. The tenderness he felt toward her was new. He wanted to hold her against him and never let anything or anyone hurt her again. “How do you feel?” He swept a strand of hair away from her brow. She’d brushed her hair too. The glossy locks caught the warm glow of the gas lamp, highlighting the multiple hues of blonde. “Better, now that I’ve eaten.” She smiled shyly. “Thank you for taking me in. I appreciate your kindness.” “Well, it’s the least I could do; you were returning my horse … again.” He tried not to imagine the event that caused her injury. “I was?” She furrowed her brow. “Did I borrow it?” “No. He has a habit of running off to your ranch. You’ve returned him twice now.” “I’m sorry; I don’t remember any of that. Daniel says that something will just jar my memory, and everything will come back to me.” “I’m sure it will. Tomorrow, if you feel up to it, I think that stallion has been wondering about you. He hasn’t strayed far from the stables, for once.” Elise had lost some weight, he noticed and he worried about the circles under her eyes, the shallowness in her cheeks. He’d hoped she was out of danger. “I love horses,” she smiled. “I know you do.” He could easily spend hours sitting this way, staring at her. Learning each speckle in the blue irises, counting each freckle on her nose. She was
beautiful. Even after being in a sick bed for days. Elise looked down onto her lap and picked at some imaginary lint. “I understand Daniel and I had deceived you,” her cheeks bloomed color. “He explained your reasons,” his hand covered hers. “I understand completely.” Elise raised her eyes to his. Again they lapsed into silence, eyes busy, but otherwise still. “I’d better let you get some rest. You should sleep well tonight.” He bent across her, and kissed her forehead. Her eyes widened when he withdrew. “I’m sorry, Elise. Did that bother you…?” “No … no. Thank you again for your hospitality.” “Good night.” He checked over his shoulder once more before closing the door behind him. Maybe he would get some rest tonight also. Since the cowboys ran to him with the news of her limp body in the grove of trees, he hadn’t slept much. He could only imagine the worst, and what dreams he’d had were disturbing images of her battered body lying beneath an aspen tree. He undressed for bed. He didn’t want to think of that any more. She was well, a little shaken up, but able to walk and talk … it could have been much worse.
Chapter Ten Jonathan looked up from last page of the book in his lap when he realized that the sun had sunk lower. He’d spent hours in the godforsaken library, and he still hadn’t found what he was looking for. He hurled the book across the room and was satisfied to see the spine break before falling onto the others. He stood up too fast, and had to steady himself before stalking across the room to the sidebar. The new cook would be starting tomorrow; liquor at regular intervals would sustain him until then. Damn her. It was her fault he’d had to dismiss the old woman … all of them. They were all gone. Not one of his attendants would admit to knowing Mary’s whereabouts. Such disloyalty was inexcusable. When a man can’t trust those in his employ, he was well rid of them. They’d pay. They’d be sorry when they weren’t able to find employment elsewhere, he’d seen to that. One last ray of sun beamed through the window, the amber light caught on the jewel set in the ring. Her ring. He narrowed his eyes; his ring. It should never have been removed from her finger. His jaw ached with the tension he’d placed on his teeth. The thought of her taking his ring off, and handing it over to that grimy salesman was too much to bear. More disloyalty. His curse echoed off the walls, and he back-handed the jewelry box. The box hit the desk, and the ring bounced along the hardwood floor, making a tinkling sound that mocked him with its gaiety. He stared at it until his breathing had returned to normal. Switching on the lamp, he retrieved it, placing it back in its box until he could again place it on her finger. “And there it will remain, until death do us part.” He grabbed another armful of books from the shelf before resuming his seat. Somewhere in this library was the book. Try as he might, he couldn’t remember which, but he specifically recalled Mary’s father showing her a map, an illustration that detailed the area where he owned the small acreage. They laughed about it at the time, the coincidence of the map in an unrelated book. They had pinpointed the exact location with a small ink circle. Her father’s ranch. That could only mean that she lied when she told him that it had been sold to a neighbor. Before her father died. Even the old man was involved in her secrets and deception with his phony will. She had to have been planning this for months. Her trickery hadn’t fooled him. Only three trains had left that night, two westward and one northbound. Amelia was in New York, he’d tracked her down easily. Daniel wasn’t with her, nor was Mary. The old biddy wouldn’t talk, but the greedy sons of bitches on the railroad were more than willing to admit to seeing her with an old Irishman on a westbound train, using her maiden name. As if his name meant nothing to her. His gut twisted again. The burn of the good brandy would only stoke the fire, but it was so damn satisfying. Page after page. His eyes would blur, but he’d only have to cast a glance at the ring in order to find motivation to focus. Book after book, until… The first smile he’d allowed himself spread over his face like a healing balm. “Ahh, Mary. My wife. Welcome home.”
**** Elise woke the next morning, feeling much better. Emily brought a tray filled with fluffy eggs, and warm toast. She ate her fill, and felt like a new woman. She laughed; she could scarcely remember the old version. Emily prepared a bath for her, and stayed to assist her in dressing. She’d dressed in her own clothing, that she knew; she even recognized the chemise as one she’d sent out for repair. Her hair twisted into a bun on her nape like before, but the old Mary … Elise, she amended, wouldn’t be here. She’d be tiptoeing around her home in Virginia. Her body ached. Still, she was tired of feeling confused. She was excited to get out, and trigger a memory. Her thoughts returned to Jonathan. Where was he? What was he doing right now? Would he be drowning his sorrows? Celebrating his freedom? She laughed, that wouldn’t be the case, surely he was angry with her. Knowing Jonathan, he’d dragged every acquaintance of hers over the coals for information. He wouldn’t stop until he found her. Daniel told her a little about how they’d slipped out in the early morning, while he slept off another night of overindulgence. “Good morning,” Cody stood when they entered the living room. He scrutinized her every movement. “Good morning Mr. Campbell.” Elise responded, wondering why her body reacted so oddly each time she saw this man. Her internal organs seemed to shift erratically, and her heart thumped in her throat. It had to be due to the way he looked at her; regarding her with what looked like tenderness in those amber eyes. “Please, call me Cody.” “Thank you … Cody. And Emily, thank you so much for all you’ve done, I can’t imagine the extra work I’ve caused.” Emily waved her away. “Think nothing of it, my dear. Daniel did most of the work, and Cody did all of the worrying. No trouble at all.” Elise’s eyes slid to Cody. He worried? They must have grown close during her trip here, but she couldn’t remember. The idea of a close friendship sent a warming feeling through her. The fact that she had a friend was enough, but this man… “I appreciate everything,” she said. Cody stepped in beside her, and took her elbow. “There is someone I want you to meet.” He walked her to the door, then outside and into the stables. Another man was waiting there, holding the reins to the stallion. Elise didn’t recognize the man, but as she approached the horse, a flicker of recognition passed through her mind. “This is Thomas, do you remember him?” Elise again faced the stocky man, and shook her head. “Is this … the horse I was riding?” She reached up to stroke the animal’s neck. “That’s right … you were riding bareback,” Thomas added, a trace of pride in his voice. Elise looked his way and smiled. “Bareback? Why would I do that?” She looked into the stallion’s eyes. Yes, she did remember this horse. She grasped the fleeting memory, lest it flitter away. She looked around, at the group of people watching her, all hoping something would click. She smiled resignedly and shook her head. “This horse looks very familiar, but I can’t remember…” She shrugged, close to tears. “It’s okay Elise,” Daniel soothed. “Don’t expect it to come right away. It will take some time.” The horse whinnied, almost as if trying to coax a memory from her. Elise smiled at
the beautiful animal. “What’s his name?” she asked Cody. “He doesn’t have one yet, he was only recently broken,” The air was crisp, not cold, but certainly not warm yet; the sun was still low in the sky. Wyoming air smelled so much cleaner than the heavy air of the city. She took a deep cleansing breath. “Are we going back to the V-Bar now, Daniel?” “Emily would like you to stay one more night.” Cody interjected. “She’s still a little worried about that bump on your head.” He ignored her protests, and insisted that she was not a burden. “I’ve got a ranch to run. You two make yourselves at home.” His quick wink at Elise made her catch her breath. His retreating swagger was purely masculine. The tight denim hugged his form to perfection. Powerful legs rippled as he walked, the sound of his boots crunched against the rocky path the only sound she heard above her heartbeat. She followed Daniel to the house, and sipped on coffee. He answered each of Elise’s questions as they arose. Daniel peeled potatoes for supper, which caused Emily to fluster at the novelty of a man in her domain. When Elise donned an apron they both shooed her from the kitchen. “Go for a walk, or find a nice book to read. We’ve got this handled.” Elise searched through the library, and did seem to find one she might enjoy, and it looked short enough for her to finish in an afternoon, if she could concentrate. The sounds of the busy ranch at times caused her to peer out the window, to see what was happening. She wished she could be out with the cowboys, their work seemed so exciting. She’d loved riding her horse when she was a child, and apparently continued to ride today. Jonathan would never allow it, she remembered. She wasn’t allowed to do much. She wished she could remember the feeling of leaving him. As it was now, she couldn’t believe she was actually free. But he would come after her. She lay the book down, now more interested in the view from the window. She stood to stretch her legs. There were three cowboys practicing their roping skills on a fencepost. It must be a lot harder than it looked. The one, who was obviously the teacher, was skilled, and hit his target every time. The others pulled back too early, or too late, and the loop would miss the fencepost. She smiled when the instructor tore his hat from his head and whapped one student in frustration. She slipped her shoes back on. They were her favorite shoes from back home; her father had purchased them for her as a birthday present, the dainty pointed toe, laces hugging the shoe to her calf. She shrugged, funny what things I do remember, she thought. The sun was high above now, and much warmer. Elise remembered Wyoming in the wintertime. There were long days spent indoors while the wind drifted the snow against their windows, ranch hands took daily counts of the livestock, to report the losses. She wasn’t sure she was prepared for the long winter months. July days such as this were perfect, not too hot… Her head snapped up. Did someone tell her it was July? Elise didn’t think so … perhaps it wasn’t after all. She walked along a worn footpath around the property. There were so many buildings used for ranching, more than she would have imagined. Did the V-Bar have this many structures? She couldn’t remember. She walked by the one for horses, she remembered
meeting the stallion in that one. She ventured to one of the smaller buildings, which the cowboys had mostly avoided. The door was wide open, and after a cursory look around, and assuring herself that there wasn’t anything to be ashamed of, just a walk through the ranch, she was sure that Cody Campbell wouldn’t mind. She entered the structure, and it was so quiet, she assumed it was void of animal life. She turned to leave, when she heard a soft squeal and grunt. Pigs? She walked further into the dark building. She smiled, and leaned over the pen. Most of the tiny piglets were sleeping, the sow using the naptime to feed herself. Her mammary glands were distended, and Elise thought they looked sore from the hungry piglets’ abuse. One of the piglets was awake, and rooting through his brothers and sisters, attempting to awaken one for entertainment. Elise giggled. “Leave them alone, little guy,” she reprimanded, and then squatted down to call the piglet over to her, clicking her tongue, as though to a dog. The piglet looked her way, but continued his traipse over the sleeping pigs, none of which were bothered in the least. “Elise?” The voice came from the door. Elise stood, guiltily facing the silhouetted figure. “Yes, it’s me,” The man approached her. That was Cody Campbell’s voice, and the rapid rise to her heartbeat had nothing to do with guilt of discovery. She was honest enough with herself to admit that his mere presence excited her, and caused her nerve endings to stand at attention. His body, even in shadow, emanated pure masculinity. The tight jeans clung to his legs, hips, and … She forced her eyes up past his chest when he came into the light. “Are you finding your way around? I could have offered you a tour, but I didn’t think you were up to it.” “Is it alright? I just wanted to stretch my legs.” “Of course it’s alright. Help yourself to anything. The shovels are right over there, if you feel like cleaning out the pigpen, while you’re at it.” He winked. Her heart constricted each time he winked her way. If it wasn’t a flirtatious gesture, the effect remained the same. Elise gave a small laugh, and turned her attention again to the pigs. “They are adorable.” Cody seemed to find her words interesting, and after a moment’s thought, he swung his legs over the corral, picked up the feisty piglet, and carried him over to her. She reached out to scratch his little nose, and then stopped. This was familiar. She looked up at Cody, who was watching her carefully. “Have I been here before? Or…” He nodded, hope in his eyes. “You met these piglets on your last visit here. Do you remember?” Elise looked down from his probing eyes to the piglet squirming in his arms, then back to Cody. Sadly, she shook her head. “It’s more like a déjà vu than a memory. As if I should know what is going to happen next, like I’ve been in this scene before, I just … knew it.” Her eyes shifted around the room, willing a memory, any memory to enter her head. “What happened next?” “Next, I asked if you would like to take a piglet home with you, once they are weaned.” “And did I?” “Yes.”
“And then?” “And then … you got angry with me when I referred to them as pork.” His crooked grin glinted with devilish charm, and like one spellbound by the devil himself, she returned it. “I can imagine.” Elise continued to watch him with the piglet, focusing on the scene, willing her memory to kick in. When nothing came to her, her face dropped in disappointment. He set the wriggling pig down. They both observed the litter in silence for a few minutes until Elise’s curiosity urged her on. “What happened after that?” she asked. Cody’s mouth tightened. Elise waited, wondering why he didn’t answer. “Cody?” “You left,” he said simply. “Oh. I see.” But she didn’t see at all. He was obviously leaving something out. It must not be pleasant. “Was I truly angry at you about serving pigs for dinner? Did we argue?” “No,” he murmured, “And yes.” “Well, which was it?” “Yes, we argued, but not about pork.” He turned to face her, and looked deep into her eyes; she tried to read what was there. It looked like … apology? “I doubt you would want to remember any sort of argument.” “Cody?” She saw his expression change. His jaw worked as if he was forming the words he didn’t want to say. “Did I do something to you?” Cody laughed, making her wonder what was going on in his mind. “No, Elise. I just don’t like thinking about it, that’s all.” She relaxed a bit at this, but still wished she could remember that day. “Someday, I will remember it,” she said quietly. He shrugged. “When you do, just know that it wasn’t your fault.” He winked at her again. The seemingly innocent gesture sent a delicious shiver down her spine. He did that often; was it unintentional or did he know how it affected her? “Come on; let me show you the rest of the place.” Cody took her through the stables, and introduced her to Scout, keeping his distance, only touching her once when he placed his hand at the small of her back to guide her through the darkness. “You have a wonderful ranch, Cody,” she walked up the steps to the porch, “I think I’ll lie down a bit before dinner.” She felt his eyes on her until the heavy oak door closed behind her. Dinner turned into an all out occasion. Emily had gone overboard for her two guests in celebration of Elise’s recovery. She even broke out the china she said was normally reserved for Christmas dinner. Elise reveled in the flavor of her thick steak; the fresh meat was so tender she could almost do without a knife. Even the roasted potatoes tasted better than anything she could remember. It must have been the fact that she’d survived the past few days on spooned tea and broth that made her so ravenous. A few times during the meal, she became aware of the urge to shovel food into her mouth, and she had to slow herself down; she did have manners. “This is the best meal of my life!” She complimented Emily, as she refilled their glasses. “I’m going to tell her that your memory of any meal is limited.” Cody whispered, his
breath was so close to her ear that she shivered. She laughed to cover it. “You’re horrible,” she whispered back. As if his close proximity during dinner wasn’t bad enough, each time she shifted her legs beneath the table, they brushed against his. She had to be imagining the heat from his body, because there really was no way she could feel it through her many layers of clothing. Elise’s fork would stop midway to her surprised mouth during each accidental brush, but she was sure she covered it well and no one noticed. She hoped. She was glad when the dessert plates were cleared, and the party made their way to the parlor for card games. She felt full, happy, and better than she had in a long time. Why, in Virginia… She stopped at the doorway to the room, steadying herself with a shaky hand on the jamb. A surprising intense fear surged through her veins, and the sensation of her entire being shriveling from the inside washed over her like wave on a seashore of sharp jagged cliffs to crush her spirit on its rocks. Jonathan. She hadn’t given him a thought most of the day. She leaned against the molding, pressing her free hand to her breast to keep her heart from leaping through her ribs. She shouldn’t allow herself to become complacent! He could be right on her heels. He could be outside that door, searching for her. She glanced over her shoulder at the front door. Her mouth was dry. She realized it was due to her jaw hanging slack, so she shut it with a snap and tried to swallow. Never should she allow herself to enjoy a dinner … especially with another man. Jonathan would be livid. And if he even knew that she spent the night in another man’s home … she shot a glance at Cody, who had sat in a settee near the fire, shuffling the deck of cards, unaware of the torrent in Elise’s mind. “What is it, Elise?” Daniel whispered, his hand on her shoulder. “Are you feeling ill?” “Jonathan. I hadn’t thought of him all … all day.” Elise’s breathing had become labored. Daniel led her to a chair. She sank into it gratefully, since her knees were too weak to hold her. Blinking rapidly, she looked around to find the others watching her, with worried expressions. “She’s alright. Ghosts.” Daniel explained to Thomas and Cody, who was immediately at her side. “You are safe here, Elise.” Daniel soothed. “I’m safe. Safe here,” Elise chanted, but there was no comfort in her words. She was in a strange house, with strangers hosting her, and she should feel safe? Yet … Daniel had never let her down, he would never lie to her. Elise searched his face for the comfort that she needed. His kind eyes were filled with compassion. Sure and honest. “Jesus, what did he do to her?” Cody asked Daniel, but cut him off when he attempted to answer him. Elise clasped her hands together, since they were shaking so. “I’m fine. I’m safe.” Elise repeated. Thomas handed her a cup of coffee. She thanked him, and took it from him, hoping her shakiness wouldn’t cause her to spill. She wrapped her hands around the warm cup. Her fingers, indeed her entire body, was chilled. Her blood slowed to a normal speed. She needed some time to think, but was embarrassed at her display of weakness in front of the men. She waved a hand, “I’m sorry. Please, deal the cards, I’m fine.” Daniel nodded in understanding.
Cody took that hand in his, and covered it with the other. It was so warm! “I wish you had forgotten that part of your life instead.” His soft words touched her deeply. The sincere look he gave her told her more about Cody Campbell than anything she’d learned over the last twenty-four hours. He was an honest, caring man. She smiled, a tear forming in her eye. “Thank you, Cody,” she whispered, giving his hand a squeeze. Elise sat out the first few games, regrouping her thoughts. Soon she joined in, and played a few hands of gin rummy, giggling at the competitive nature of men, even in a card game. Twice during the games, Elise caught Cody’s eye, and he graced her with another wink. He had to know what that was doing to her. After Emily cleared the coffee tray, Thomas excused himself. “I need to get an early start tomorrow.” He held his hat at his side until he reached the door, then he slapped it on his head in a fluid motion. “See y’all in the mornin’” Daniel took Elise’s elbow and bid Cody goodnight. “I’ll be up for a while yet, I’ve got some correspondence,” Cody said, “If you need anything let me know.” His eyes swept over Elise before leaving the room. “Do you think Jonathan is going to come after us?” Elise asked Daniel, when they walked down the hallway to their rooms. “I ask myself that same question. Some days, I think he would, and then other days, I remember how lazy he was. There is always a chance that he’s given up, and is drinking away his sorrows.” Daniel tucked Elise in. “You are safe here. Safer than anywhere else on earth, I’m thinking.” He turned to leave the room, which panicked Elise. “Where … is your room? If I need you?” “Just down this hall, love. You’ll be fine.” Elise stared into the darkness for what seemed like hours. The wind howled across her window. There were voices speaking in low tones, from far away. It was Cody, speaking to another man. She couldn’t discern the words, but she did recognize Cody’s voice. She turned to her side and stared at the strip of light beneath the bedroom door. She was surprised to note that she felt safer knowing he was within the same house as she. Soon she heard a door close, and the light from beneath her door dimmed. More footsteps. Cody’s, she imagined, making his way down the hallway to his own bedroom. He paused for just a moment outside her door, then continued on. Soon the house was silent. Elise took a deep breath. She was anything but sleepy, but her body begged for repose. The wind. Wyoming’s constant wind blew leaves against her window. She flipped onto her back to stare at the ornate woodwork of the crown molding. Another hour passed slowly. She slipped from the bed, and crossed the room, pleased when the floor didn’t creak beneath her. Daniel was a light sleeper, and would be in here in a heartbeat if he thought she needed him. She pressed her forehead against the cool window. It was so dark. There weren’t streetlights. Only pitch black. She pushed the window up, and leaned outside. The air was fresh, crisp. The wind was cool. Clouds obscured the stars and any moon there might have been. The solitude began to relax her. She outstretched both arms into the night. She imagined herself engulfed in the black blanket of space. It enfolded her in its absolute emptiness. It was as if she were carried off into blissful nothingness a million miles away. She could very well have been on the edge of the world; she could see nothing in the blackness of the night. It seemed to erase all of the ugliness in the world.
The pain, fear … even Jonathan. Suddenly, she pulled back, her heart racing. She snapped the window shut. Jonathan was out there, she just knew it. He was close enough to reach out and grab her, and she couldn’t see a thing. Her heart raced. She fumbled for the drapes, to shut out the blackness, then she staggered backwards into the room until she was against the opposite wall. She slid down to clasp her knees to her breasts, never looking away from the window. The house was silent, dark. She shook, and her heart sounded like timpani drums in her ears. Jonathan was after her. She could smell his strong cologne, even taste the whiskey on his cold saliva! When she clenched her eyes closed to shake the image, all she could see were his eyes. Cold as ice, enraged. If he did see her now, he would be more furious than he’d ever been with her. It was a long time before her pulse slowed to a normal level, and she released her lower lip from the clamp of her teeth. She took the robe from the bedpost, and hurried to find Daniel. He would help her. He would know just what to say to calm her down. She peered out of her bedroom door. The sole lamp burning in the living room lent a spooky motion-filled light, but enough to see the rows of doors in the hallway. The one, she knew was the washroom. She opened another door, and found a closet. She forced the panic aside, and opened another door. It was a bedroom. She let herself in, and closed the door behind her. “Daniel… I’m scared,” she whispered, crossing the room and crawling onto the bed like she had done as a girl when awakened by a bad dream. She nudged the sleeping form beneath the quilt “Elise?” Cody rolled over, raising himself on an elbow to light the bedside lamp. “Elise, are you alright?”
Chapter Eleven “Oh … oh my, Cody I’m sorry, I was looking for Daniel.” Elise scrambled backward, flushing from her chest to the roots of her hair. He caught her hand, halting her retreat. “Come here,” he whispered, gathering her toward him. Elise was mortified. Cody leaned on one arm, searching her face. His chest was bare, the tawny skin taking on a warm new glow in the lamplight. She looked away, knowing how wrong it was to be in this man’s bedroom. “I was scared, I’m so sorry.” “Don’t be scared, Elise. And don’t be sorry.” He pulled her onto the bed and into a protective embrace. Elise swallowed. Alarms rang in her head when she was pulled across the bed. Her body slipped into the memorized motions, and she went without a fight, succumbing to the more powerful being. Her mind began shutting down, her vision narrowed until she saw only pinpoints of light. She closed her eyes when she felt her soul begin the trip out of her body, to spare her the pain of being ravaged by the male beside her. She closed out sounds, scents … shut down everything non-essential until she was at peace. **** Cody held her gently, though she lay as rigid as a board against him. He spoke soft words against her ear. “He can’t hurt you anymore. You’re safe here.” Each muscle in her body was tense. Her jaw was clenched, and her hands were clutched into fists. After long moments passed and Elise hadn’t relaxed, Cody pulled back to look into her face. Her eyes were pinched closed, the muscles in her lids twitched with the effort. “Elise, look at me,” he whispered, “Open your eyes.” Her breathing had become choppy but she did as he asked, and opened her eyes. They opened, but there was no recognition in them. In fact, it was as if she looked right through him. The blue irises now looked like the coldest of winter skies. She was terrified; to such a degree that she’d shut down. Cody was at a loss. Should he release her completely, or force her to face her demons? She wasn’t fighting his embrace, but he knew damn well that it was only because she had slipped into some sort of self-preservation trance. He continued to speak soothing words, and didn’t press any closer than he was to her, but did smooth the tendrils of hair that had clung to her damp temple. She was so cold. Last winter a storm came on so fast that it froze a number of his cattle in their tracks. The glassy-eyed stare was the same. He pulled the heavy quilt over her, covering her to her chin. Since that didn’t satisfy him of her warmth, he rubbed her arms through the blanket. He kept his motions slow and non-threatening, but he could still feel the vibrating of her tense muscles. Cody could see the change in her eyes, when she finally looked at him. “Cody?” She whispered through dry lips. “Yes. It’s me. It’s Cody. I am not going to hurt you, Elise.” The words were hard to
speak over the lump that had formed in his throat. She was coming out of it. It took superhuman effort to refrain from pulling her closer. He wanted to wrap her in his arms, celebrating her release from her own hell. His muscles fairly burned with tension when he didn’t allow them to. “I was going to… I was almost…” “Shh it’s alright now, you are safe.” He moved his hand extremely slowly to wipe the tear from her cheek with his thumb. “You stopped me,” she said simply. He watched her, and his stomach dropped. Had he made a horrible mistake? “I was only trying to…” She stopped him with two fingers across his lips. “Thank you. I was afraid. I started to slip … I usually … you stopped me.” She looked up at him with an innocent wonder. He breathed in relief. He continued to hold her in the silence, and her cool fingertips dragged over his mouth. To keep from taking those fingers into his mouth, he clamped his molars together. Her touch was pure, unrehearsed. Ironically, it was the most erotic thing he had ever experienced. Her body relaxed. The tension in her shoulders allowed them to sink deeper into the mattress. The lines around her eyes disappeared. He could almost feel every muscle in her body as it softened against his. She was literally melting in his arms. He closed his eyes briefly, committing the sensation to memory. Slowly, to keep from scaring her, he adjusted his arm beneath her head, and pulled her a bit closer. Nowhere near as close to him as he would like. They lay together, speaking not a word, until her breathing returned to normal, and her body became pliant. Cody was so in tune to her body that he could feel her heartbeat slowing, steadying; her eyes fluttering closed … the exact moment that she was at peace. He pressed a kiss on to the top of her head. He turned to press his cheek in the spot. His body reacted to the situation in the only way it was conditioned to do. Lying down in a bed with a beautiful woman in his arms made the end result obvious. On a purely base level. Was he a purely base creature? He chided himself. Now wasn’t the time, she would be horrified. He imagined her to be a sister. Cousin. The little neighbor girl running for her life. Not a beautiful woman in his arms. “Was it a dream?” Damn. He wasn’t able to hide the huskiness in his voice. Did it give him away? “No,” she answered, “I couldn’t sleep. It was just my imagination.” “You can rest now, Elise. No one will hurt you here.” He spoke against her hair, not wanting to relinquish his position. “For once … just rest. Sleep well.” “I should go. This isn’t proper,” she said. “Just rest. Don’t worry about anything Elise. Just sleep.” He continued soothing her, stroking her hair, pressing her head against his chest. Soon, her hands curled under her chin, and she buried her face in his bare chest. Her soft, even breaths were their own torturous penance for the sins blistering his mind. “You can sleep now, you are safe here,” he whispered. He kept his embrace protective, a friendly gesture, nothing for her to be afraid of. Cody dared not move. If he adjusted his body, his arousal would be discovered, and she would leave his bed, appalled, and rightly so. When he heard the deep even breathing, and he knew she was asleep, he groaned inwardly, and adjusted his body,
pressing himself against the soft form lying so warm and inviting next to him, cursing the heaven and hell of it, then pulled away. That was too much. If he were a gentleman, he would sleep on the sofa in the living room. Even knowing that, Cody continued to stare at the woman in his arms, her angelic face peaceful at last in sleep. Her lashes left thick dark crescents against her flawless cheeks. His lips longed for a taste of her skin. He knew she tasted sweet, he remembered the taste of her mouth, like thick honey and butter; but that smooth skin along her jaw … with the smallest motion of his head, he pressed his mouth against her temple. God, she was so soft. Her skin was like cool fine silk. Her hair smelled of lavender water. He indulged himself in the fantasy and he pulled her closer to him. As if she was pressing against him, yearning for him. He threaded the soft strands of hair through his fingers, touching them to his mouth, using only the merest of movements to ensure she wasn’t disturbed. She wore a light robe. Carefully, he moved the fabric away from her slender neck. Her skin was warm, soft. She was beautiful. If only he could reach that patch of tender skin beneath her ear with his mouth, but he couldn’t without moving too much. Her head grew heavy on his bicep, and the blood was slowly cut off, causing it to tingle. He wouldn’t move it for the world. He used his free arm to run down her arm, to the elbow that was tucked against his abdomen, then back to her hands which hovered temptingly over his nipple. He resisted the urge to press her hand against the tight peak. Instead, he slid his fingers beneath hers to clasp the cool hand in his. He moaned again when her hand reflexively closed around his. He knew that she shouldn’t be with him this way. It was extremely inappropriate. Single or married, she shouldn’t be here. If she were single, the reasons would be different. Damn it all. If she wasn’t married, he wouldn’t have encouraged her to fall asleep. A self-effacing smile crossed his face. When he was with a woman, the last thing he wanted to encourage was sleep. Never in his own bed and never for an entire night. Sleeping with a woman, in the very literal sense, was something he just didn’t do. He’d always considered it a waste of time. After reaching his goal, he’d dress quickly and be done with it. There were a few women in town that he could always rely on to slake his desires. Each one different; each would serve his particular mood. One was bawdy and rowdy, another soft, sweet and gentle—looking down into Elise’s face in repose—he couldn’t even remember their names. Cody tried to imagine Elise’s husband. Had he held her this way? He doubted it. It took an extreme amount of trust for someone to slip into oblivion in another’s company. From what he’d heard, the man inspired no trust. His jaw tightened. His eyes burned with intensity of the emotion. He hated that bastard. How any man could hurt a woman was beyond him, but this woman … Elise. “Asshole,” he hissed, not intending to speak aloud. The sound caused Elise to stir, but not awaken. He kissed her temple one last time, and extracted himself from her closeness, both the heaven and hell of it, and crossed the room. He had to get out from underneath the same blankets as she. He considered his self control beyond reproach, but that temptation could spell his undoing. His physical state was difficult to ignore. His body had broken out in a cold sweat, and he throbbed with desire, but he intended to disregard the urges that flashed through him.
He sat on the chair near the fireplace and watched her. She was beautiful. She looked just like her mother. Could this be the problem? He had a boyhood crush on the neighbor woman. Now, the embodiment of his adolescent fantasy was laying here in his bed, looking soft, inviting, and … scared to death, here temporarily. Married. How many other reasons did he need for leaving her alone? He shifted, knowing that if she awoke, she would find him scrutinizing at her in a most ungentlemanly way. He dropped his head into both hands, and gripped his scalp. He sat brooding, waiting for his desire to fade so that he could sleep in the same room with the woman who had invaded his dreams. **** Elise awoke just as the sun peeked over the mountain. Her eyes remained closed, and a satisfied smile spread across her lips. She couldn’t remember a time when she had slept so well. Her eyes snapped open, when the memory of last night formed in her mind. She’d slept in Cody’s bed! She’d actually slept … fully, soundly, safely … in a man’s bed. In a man’s arms. Her face flooded with heat. Oh lord! She looked through lowered lashes toward the other side of the bed. It was empty. The pillow wasn’t flattened from use. She sat up, looking again at the room. She wasn’t in Cody’s room. She was in the room that she’d awakened from her accident. Was it all a dream? She lay back on the pillows, her heart racing. Her memory was failing her again! She couldn’t trust anything. The drapes were drawn shut over her window. She had pulled them closed last night. The robe was draped on the wing back chair near the bureau. It was on the bedpost when she put it on before leaving this room in search of Daniel. She remembered waking up once during the night, and Cody’s gentle words coaxing her back to sleep. He hadn’t touched her in any improper way. Her head was nestled quite nicely in the crook of his arm, her cheek against the smooth muscle of his chest. She could hear his heartbeat. Melting warmth spread through her. Her earlier fears that every man would be like Jonathan were dispelled. He must have carried her back to this room to spare her embarrassment. A content smile spread over her face. She dressed with care, taking extra time to ensure that her hair was neat. She even splashed on a touch of the lavender water that Emily had left beside the basin. She entered the kitchen to find Daniel and Emily serving a lavish meal, and half expecting to be admonished for her nighttime prowling fiasco. If anyone but Cody was aware of it, they didn’t mention it. She cleaned her plate quickly. Thomas entered the kitchen in time to shovel down the plateful offered him. After packing their belongings, Elise thanked Emily abundantly for all her help and hospitality. Once loaded into the wagon, Thomas drove them past the grove of trees where Elise was told she was found. She searched the area, hoping to spur a memory, but was again disappointed. Elise remained quiet through the trip back to the V-Bar, listening to Thomas and Daniel’s conversation. She gathered that Thomas had been to their home on more than one occasion, and was a dinner guest one night. When the wagon reached her father’s ranch, she was somewhat comforted in the fact that the V-Bar did seem familiar to her, but only as a long ago memory from her childhood. Elise’s shoulders sagged in disappointment. She knew her memory’s return
would happen when she least expected, but she couldn’t help feeling let down. Daniel had told her about Joe, and how they had come across him, so she assumed that was who had met them at the porch, taking their belongings from Thomas, and saying little, but she didn’t recall ever meeting him. Elise toured the house, entering each room, hopeful for a spark of recognition, then outside with the same purpose. The chickens squawked at her approach, but they were the only animals on the ranch, other than Joe’s horse. There weren’t as many buildings as she saw on Cody Campbell’s ranch, but hers was on a much smaller scale. Elise followed Daniel around throughout the day, much like a lost puppy. She kneaded the bowl of bread dough while he peeled potatoes for dinner. “Was I with my father when he … passed?” Daniel stopped his work, and looked directly into Elise’s eyes, a sad expression told her more than words would. “No. Jonathan only allowed short visits with him. Your father died during the night.” Elise nodded, willing her tears away. She would ponder that at another time, when she was alone. “You were at his services, Elise. He did allow that, probably more for appearances sake than for yours.” Daniel’s knife began to fly even swifter, with the memory. Elise teased him, reminding him that the potato had no part of it. Elise had to admit that dinner in Cody’s home was much more satisfying. Not that Daniel’s food wasn’t delicious, it was … but she couldn’t look up from her plate and see a pair of amber eyes gazing back at her. She couldn’t feel the warmth of his arm when it brushed against hers. And after dinner, instead of coffee with Cody in the parlor, Elise resorted to needlepoint in order to pass the time. She would have liked to say that she was glad to be sleeping in her own bed, but the pillows held no joy for her. She tossed through the night, remembering the warm embrace of Cody’s strong arms, the scent of his body, the muscular chest against her cheek, the feeling of sheer security. There was something else too. Spending the night in Cody’s bed had sent messages to her brain, some that even she, a married woman, didn’t understand. She’d wanted to press against his masculine body until she wasn’t able to discern where one ended and the other began. Never had she wanted to be close to a man. Not like that. Jonathan’s advances were frightening, repulsive, and not in the least enjoyable. Cody’s mere presence sent thrilling shocks throughout her body, centering on her loins. Amelia had once told her that the joining of a woman and man should be enjoyable, but Elise couldn’t imagine the act with her husband being anything but painful and despicable. She rolled to her back and stared at the ceiling, wondering if the feeling would accompany any decent man, or was it Cody’s specific talent? Would she meet someone in her journey’s end who would affect her so? Or was Cody the only one who could raise her temperature in such a way? If she spent years in her new home, without meeting anyone who filled this void, would she regret leaving Wyoming? Tossing onto her side again, she curled her hands beneath her chin, as she had the previous night, and imagined Cody’s strong embrace. She eventually fell asleep, with a secure smile. The following morning, Elise noticed the notebook lying on the hutch. It was her handwriting, detailing the list of duties that needed to be completed before putting the ranch on the market. The list was almost two full pages, and almost each task had been crossed off. “Did we do all this work?”
“You, Joe, and I.” Daniel nodded. “We’re almost done?” “That’s right. You were busy before your accident. Joe’s been making headway on the last few projects since.” Sure enough, Joe was outside on the roof of the stables, hammering away. When the next morning dawned, a steady rain pelted the earth. Elise spent the day baking cinnamon rolls. She wanted to share with the Campbell household in gratitude for their hospitality. She wondered if there would be a day when Cody didn’t dominate her every thought. Not until she was far from Wyoming, she thought with a disparaging laugh. The ground attempted to soak up the rain, it was much needed, but it had come too quickly and it turned into a muddy mess. Elise stayed indoors, beginning to feel anxious about Jonathan, the sale of the ranch, and her upcoming move westward. ‘Cabin Fever’, Daniel called it. The following afternoon, the rain abated, and Elise borrowed Joe’s mount for her visit to the Campbell’s. She packed the loaves of bread, reminding her of the visits her mother would make to Cody’s family, with fresh bread or desserts. Sighing, Elise was thankful that her memories of her mother were intact. Flame trotted happily across the property, as tired of the rain-induced confinement as Elise. About half-way to the Campbell home, Elise noticed a rider-less horse galloping toward them. “Boomer!” Elise recognized the horse as the one she was riding when she fell. Then it hit her; she remembered this horse. His name was Boomerang. She had named him during that ride, just before he was spooked by the rattlesnake … she remembered! She could remember everything! Daniel’s gentle hand on her arm, when she boarded the train to Wyoming. Her father’s funeral, dropping her wedding ring into a beggar’s hat only moments before boarding the train, Jonathan’s last words to her. Cody holding a piglet for her admiration. Cody’s lips… Elise stopped Flame, so she could focus. Yes. Cody’s mouth moving on hers, a wonderful kiss! She held a hand to her heart to keep it from leaping through her throat. The angry flash in his eyes in the stables, after the last kiss they shared. He had made it clear to her in no uncertain terms, that she was to stay away from him! She flushed. Her escapade into his bed that night now even more embarrassing! The horses paid her no mind; they circled each other, nuzzling and snorting, like lovers reunited. Elise slipped from the saddle, the horse’s movements too distracting for her thoughts. She moved away from the animals, and sat on a nearby rock, resting her head in her arms on bent knees. Memories flooded her mind, whatever she wanted to recall, it was there. She was filled with joy, and then with pain, when her mind switched to the last few moments she’d spent with her father. “You okay ma’am?” Elise heard the horse approaching, but was too encompassed in her new discovery to pay much mind. She looked up and saw one of Cody’s hands, dismounting, his boyish face filled with concern. She wasn’t sure if she should know him, he didn’t look familiar. He had dark skin, like Joe’s. She looked at him curiously. He had the same angled face, and same build. Could this be a member of the same tribe? Elise and Daniel had speculated on Joe’s heritage. Should she know him? “Yes… I’m alright. I was just … thinking.” The young man looked at her with undisguised disbelief.
“Maybe you should come with me. Emily will want to see you.” He reached a gloved hand toward her. “I’m Jake.” He told her. “I never seen you around here, but then I’m kinda new” “Thank you, Jake. I’m Elise. I … live at the ranch about a mile away.” He nodded, and ensured she was safe in her saddle. They rode toward the Campbell ranch, he surreptitiously checked over his shoulder at her until they reached the porch. “Elise!” Emily ran from the clothesline on the side of the home to her. “So good to see you again. How do you feel?” Elise slid from the saddle, and smiled at the woman. “Very well, thank you Emily. I have regained my memory … just now … on my way here.” “Oh thank the Lord. I knew it would come back to you. Just as we hoped then?” Emily gave her a quick hug. Jake tipped his hat and rode away. “Emily, did I know Jake? That cowboy who rode here with me?” “Not that I know of, dear. Unless you met him during your last visit, which is possible.” She poured two cups of coffee. “He just started out here, about a month ago, I’d say.” Emily went on to tell her the tale of the boy, whose father was an Indian, who allegedly raped a white woman, causing his conception. The father sits in the Wyoming Territorial Prison, while his mother wanted nothing to do with him, dropping him instead at the local orphanage. “He’s been there since. No one wanted to adopt the boy. The stigma attached, you know.” “That’s very sad.” Elise shook her head. It wasn’t Jake’s fault he was born from a union of violence. Again, her thoughts flittered to her own lost child, conceived in much the same way. “So that stallion didn’t make it all the way to the V-Bar this time?” “No, but he’d come as soon as we were in sight. I came to see…” Elise stopped short. She was about to say that she’d come to see Cody, but after her memory of his dismissal of her that day in the barn, she certainly shouldn’t come to see him. “I did some baking during the rain. I wanted to share it with you for your kindness last week.” She laid the packages on the kitchen counter “That’s mighty nice of you, dear,” “It was the least I could do. I’m very lucky to have such wonderful neighbors.” She grinned. “Please say hello to Thomas and … Cody for me.” Why did she stumble over his name? “You can’t stay? Please stay for just a few minutes. I don’t get much female company around here, not since the only married cowboy took his wife and moved on.” Emily grumbled. Elise smiled in understanding. “I can stay for a few minutes, but only if you let me help you, so I don’t feel like I’m in the way.” The two finished removing the clean white sheets from the line, then into the house to redress the beds. The room which Elise used, then what she assumed must have been Daniel’s, across the hall from Cody’s, all the while Emily chattered. Then, just as Elise had hoped against, they entered Cody’s bedroom. Elise blushed when she remembered the night she spent here. She looked at the bed with embarrassment; as though Emily could see right through her, and know the secret she hid. Surely she couldn’t. The woman moved through the room, which Elise saw was filled with Cody’s presence. The comb on
the dresser, the pocket knife tossed without a care on the bedside table. She spent a little more time than necessary putting the case on the pillow, its aroma filling her head with delicious memories. She wondered if he were out with Thomas, but she wasn’t about to ask. Emily continued talking, speaking of Cody’s father. She had to have been with the family for years. “Mr. Campbell will be so glad to sleep in his own bed, I’m sure. He said that he didn’t want to die without seeing his mother’s homeland. I hope he enjoyed himself, you know, he deserves a break from the ranch, its constant work…” Elise wondered if she talked incessantly whether or not someone was listening. “I can’t imagine traveling across the ocean to a foreign land, all alone, not knowing a soul…” At this, Emily stopped short, and looked at Elise pointedly. “It’s a very brave thing, don’t you think?” Elise smiled, understanding the compliment. “It wouldn’t be difficult, if you were more afraid of what you were leaving behind, than what promises lay ahead.” Elise grinned back at her. During the ride back to the V-Bar, Elise slowed her pace. The afternoon was still, for once, no wind blew through the evergreens, or sent tumbleweeds across the plain. She found her memories came to her without fail. She recalled the last few months with a fresh perspective, seeing her life from the outside. She now remembered the morning she left. Every breath, every word, every movement was clear in her mind once again. The courage she had to muster that day, her precise planning, and the many things that could have gone awry. He’d probably given up by now. It had been months … had he found someone new to terrorize … had he had her pronounced dead and was basking in the attention. She laughed. She knew that convincing herself that he had resigned to the fact that she was gone was close to impossible. He had threatened such violence should she ever leave him, and she never knew him to issue idle threats. Subconsciously, as if to verify the reality, Elise glanced down at her wrist. His hand wrapped around it. Cold white fingers bit into her skin. Her hand tingled from blood loss. The silver glint of the blade reflected his furious snarl. “Where did you think you were going?” his breath hit her face as he leaned over her. “He … little Timmy was lost … I was…” The knife slid between her wrist and crisp white sleeve. With a long deliberate slice, he’d cut the sleeve from cuff to shoulder. She cried out. First from the shocking sound of tearing cloth, then from the pain that hit her. She looked down to find a long thin scratch, oozing with her blood. His lips twisted in a parody of a grin. “Where did you think you were going?” She whimpered, “I was helping…” Another slice. Another ribbon of blood. “Where did you think you were going?” quieter now, deceptively controlled. “Please…” tears soaked the pillow beneath her head, her blood seeped into the quilt. “I didn’t mean to…” This slice was slower. She could feel her skin splitting. She moaned plaintively “Where did you think you were going?” She knew he had infinite patience when it came to torturing her. What could she say to end this? The truth wasn’t working. The only other option was to tell him what he perceived to be the truth. She couldn’t do that either. No, she had to continue… “I helped
Timmy home,” she couldn’t get the words out before she suffered another slow drag of the cold metal. “Where did you think you were going?” he screamed maniacally. She screamed in pain. Flame jerked, then pranced a few steps before returning to her steady gait. Elise snapped from her musings. Again, she looked down at her wrists, expecting to see the bloody stripes. Just the faint scars remained. Elise shuddered. She dabbed the chilling perspiration from her forehead and neck. What she wouldn’t give to have just a bit of that amnesia back. Her wedding night was perhaps the most gentle he had been, but still he’d taken her virginity with swift, rough, actions, without a kind word. He left her body bruised and sore, then rolled over and fell asleep, ignoring her tears. She had assumed that all men were just as rough with women. Then there was Cody. Never had Jonathan kissed her the way Cody had. That ache in the pit of her stomach was new. She closed her eyes and remembered Cody’s tender fingers curled in her hair, the gentle pressure on her back, holding her against him. No. Making love with Cody would certainly be much different.
Chapter Twelve Cody lifted his head when he heard a bellowing cry. He followed the sound, recognizing it as a distressed bovine. The yearling had somehow ensnared his head in a length of loose barbed wire, hanging from a post that made up the fence separating the Campbell ranch from the V-Bar. The long grasses on the other side of the fence, beneath a grove of aspen proved too irresistible for the young bull. It had struggled enough to cause the barbs to imbed themselves in the animal’s neck, drawing blood. He swung his leg over the saddle, and slid on leather gloves. The horse’s approach only frightened the yearling further. Cody straddled him, and flipped him to the ground, using his weight to stifle the struggles. It took longer than he thought to unravel the wire. Most of the barbs were deeply imbedded in the tough skin from the animal’s frantic attempt at freedom, and slippery from the thick blood. One end of the wire lashed back, ripping open the sleeve of his shirt, and tearing into his arm. He cursed, pulled the last strand free, and then stepped away from the calf. The animal scrambled to his feet, then scampered away, tossing his head in discomfort, without so much as a thankful glance Cody’s way. “You’re welcome!” he shouted, checking his wound, then stopping short when he heard a laugh. He looked up to see Elise astride Flame. She wasn’t dressed for ranch work, he noticed. She wore a split riding skirt and ruffled shirtwaist, and a smile. She leaned over the saddle and looked down at him from the other side of the fence. “You think that’s funny?” He grinned, not caring why she laughed, just enjoying the fact that she did. “I’m sure he thanks you in his own way.” She smiled, her eyes danced over his face, flickering in the sunlight. She slid from the saddle, and approached him. “Let me see your arm.” She ducked beneath the top wire, and stepped over the lowest to assess the injury. Her tender fingers pulled the torn sleeve away from his arm so she could peer inside. He sucked in a sharp breath. “It’s just a scratch,” his blood flowed hot through his veins. When it pooled in his loins, he wished his body didn’t react so clearly to her nearness. He hoped she attributed his behavior to pain. Truthfully it was painful; sweat beaded on his brow and he winced. Her hands on his arm took his breath away, but her scent enticed its return. “Yes, it looks to be,” she said. “Do you have any bandages with you?” “No. It can wait.” She stepped back, and only then recognized the horse he’d ridden. “Boomer! Oh my, don’t you look handsome in a saddle.” She reached out to him, and he nuzzled her in recognition. She giggled, a throaty chuckle that was sexy as hell. “Boomer?” “Well, Boomerang. Just something I call him, for obvious reasons.” “I like it.” She stroked the horse’s flank, her long fingers looked so fragile and feminine against the horse hide. He shook his head to clear it of the fantasy those fingers inspired. She faced him, her eyes meeting and holding his. She stepped back through the fence toward Flame.
“You could always call him Spark, since he seems to light the fire in Flame here.” She grinned, and pulled the packages from Flame’s saddle. Sure enough, the two horses greeted each other warmly. “I see that. What brings you way out here?” “Lunch,” she held up the sack. “I found this little oasis on my first trek around the property. This is where I discovered Joe; he was camping here. Now I come out here every Wednesday. Just to have a quiet picnic, sometimes nap in the shade.” “You aren’t afraid to be so far from the house? Alone?” She gave him an inquisitive look that exasperated him. Didn’t she know the danger she put herself in? “No. I suppose I should be, but soon Daniel will see me settled, then he’ll be going home to Amelia. I’d better get used to being alone.” “I wish you wouldn’t.” She gave him another inquiring perusal before looking away. “I can’t expect Joe or Daniel to accompany me wherever I go. Besides, we’ve only one horse.” He bit his tongue. If the two men who should be watching out for her allowed her to traipse off to the far reaches of the property, who was he to chastise? She walked toward the trees, then stopped and asked, “I packed plenty. Would you like to join me?” A hundred responses went through his mind, most of them depraved, but he settled on the polite: “Yes, thank you.” “You too, Boomer. The fence is ruined here; I’ve been meaning to fix it.” She pulled the wire away, to make a path wide enough to accommodate the horse. “Not that a fence stands between you and Flame,” she murmured to Boomer when Cody walked the horse by. She spread a blanket out on the tall grass beneath the shade of the aspens, still talking while she unwrapped the sandwiches. “I always pack two, just in case I stay longer. Usually I end up giving one to Flame. She might be upset with you.” He lowered himself to the blanket, and stretched his long legs out in front of him. They ate the meal in shared silence, enjoying the sound of the nearby stream, and the slight breeze turning the aspen leaves into wind chimes. “It’s a beautiful day.” She sighed, wrapping her arms around her bent legs, and resting her chin on her knees. After a moment, she turned to him. “What were you doing out here?” “I was checking on the fence when I heard the calf bellowing.” A rustling behind them caused them both to turn. Cody jumped to his feet. Boomer had reared up onto his hind legs, intent on mounting Flame. He separated the horses, and tied them both a length apart against the fence. “Why did you do that?” She laughed. “Separate them? What else did you want me to do?” Boomer snorted in frustration. “Did you want to witness that?” “I could have politely turned my head, for the sake of love.” She spoke to Boomer, “Cody’s a mean ol’ human, isn’t he?” She laughed again. He turned away from the horses; Boomer pawed the ground. “I’m sure Joe wouldn’t be too happy about an impregnated Flame “Joe would never keep Flame from true love.” This time he snorted with humor. Cody watched the horses struggle against their bindings. “You know, the more you try to keep him away, the more he’ll want her,” she said,
sympathetically. “Is that so?” He tried not to imagine a different meaning to her words. “It’s a fact of nature, surely you know that.” She took a long sip out of the canteen. “We always want what we can’t have. Look at those two. You are going to drive them crazy.” He stared at her. Did she know what she was saying? He thought so. Elise sat beneath an aspen tree, legs primly crossed at the ankle. The look she bestowed on him was one of complete innocence. If she were aware of her double entendre, she didn’t show it. He bit back the numerous comments that crossed his mind. Are you speaking from experience? I know exactly how Boomer feels! He couldn’t say that. He sat mutely across from her, and continued his pondering while taking another bite of the sandwich. It is, without a doubt, driving me crazy. He ought to leave now, before it got worse. Before he said something he would regret, before her nearness proved too much for his self control. The cream colored shirt she wore complimented her complexion, which had lost that eastern pallor in the months she’d been in Wyoming. It had to be the first time she’d had to work outdoors or anywhere at all for that matter. His eyes traveled down to her hands, the delicate fingers showed no signs of neglect. She absently fingered the strap on the canteen. “What are you thinking about, Cody? You are awfully quiet.” His lips tightened. “Wondering how the V-Bar is coming around. Thomas said the well had been repaired.” “Joe has been such a help. We wouldn’t have been able to do it without him.” “Any more clues to his identity?” “No, but, as I see it, he doesn’t know much about us either and he doesn’t seem too worried about that.” She smiled, explaining Joe’s surprise at receiving his first wages from Elise. “We had to practically force it into his pocket.” “And you? Your memory, everything is alright?” “Yes, as far as I can tell, my recovery is complete.” Elise stared past the trees, their leaves flickering in the sunlight. “Although I sometimes wish I could choose what to remember.” She glanced his way, but he’d covered his expression. Was she referring to his harsh words to her that day in his barn? He’d been an ass. He couldn’t blame her, though. He’d like to forget that entire episode. “Where do you plan on going from here?” He followed her earlier gaze into the canopy of leaves above them. “We thought about California or Salt Lake City. Daniel has relatives in Oregon, so that’s a possibility too.” She sighed. “I wish I could stay here, it’s beautiful, peaceful … I feel like I can forget everything horrible in my life here.” “Why don’t you?” His question shocked even him. She thought about her answer for a long time before speaking. “He would find me here eventually. I need to go somewhere where I have no prior history.” She bowed her head, concentrating on her hands, fingering the hem of her culottes. “You are that afraid of him.” It began as a question, but ended as a statement. Her fear was palpable. He remembered in detail, the episode that night at his house before the
card game. He’d never be able to forget how pale she’d been; her quaking body, her heart beating in her throat … that was enough to convince him of her mortal fear. “I’ve been close to death enough to know that he could murder me without thinking twice.” Her voice was so low it was almost a whisper; as though the subject of conversation might materialize as she spoke. “My ears rang for close to a week after he shot his pistol an inch from my head. He’d shifted just before firing … to scare me.” A tear glistened in the corner of her eye. “I truly thought that I was going to die that day.” Cody cursed. This woman stirred emotions in him that surprised him. Jealousy? He’d never been covetous of another man’s possessions, especially his wife. The gut-burning hatred for her husband warred with his envy, escalating both passions. Married women were off limits. No exceptions. That this man was also a worthless waste of human flesh, made the situation even worse. He put a hand on her shoulder. “Elise, I wish that there was something I could do. I’d like to kill that sonofabitch.” “I often thought about doing just such a thing. As it is, I’ll never be truly at ease. I imagine him around every corner.” She lifted her eyes to his. “The morning I left, I took the marriage certificate from the desk drawer.” Her eyes twinkled in devilish delight. “I tore pieces off of it a little at a time, sending them flying from the train window as each mile past. The last bit I’ll release when I leave here. “I know I am still legally wed. There is no changing that. A divorce would be … impossible. And although I know he’s ruined me in some ways; I’ll never be able to get married, or have children.” Tears glossed her eyes. “But at least I’m alive,” she finished quietly. His heart lurched with tenderness; the ache in his chest so sharp that it shocked him. She’d lowered her head, again lost in her thoughts. Before he even knew that he had touched her, he found his fingers tangled in her hair where it was bound at her nape, and falling free down her back. Long moments passed, he caressed her shoulders. Spontaneously, he pulled the silken threads away from her neck, and pressed a hot kiss on the fragrant skin beneath. She gasped and faced him. He could drown in those pale blue eyes. His gaze drifted down to her lips, full, soft and moist. He had to taste her mouth again. He couldn’t deny his need, it blared inside his head like a train whistle. The self-derision would have to wait. Slow, so not to spook her, he touched those tender lips with his, stroking them with his tongue, inching them open. Her eyes smoldered, but she continued to watch him with fascination. She didn’t move. He wasn’t sure if it was fear immobilizing her or desire. He hoped for the latter, but kept his movements non-threatening. He teased her lips for long moments. A low satisfied moan bubbled through her and her eyes fluttered closed. He answered with his own gratified rumble, and lowered her over his lap. Her hands clasped his strong shoulders, drawing him down closer to her. His tongue made repeated forays into her mouth, relieved when her tongue joined in the seductive dance. He moved his hand from her back, around her thin waist to her firm abdomen. More than anything he wanted to slip beneath the starched fabric of her blouse to see if her skin was as smooth as he’d imagined. He inched his fingers up her ribcage. They hovered just beneath the swell of her breast. He waited, listening to her body speak to him, while his lips continued their tender assault. When he didn’t feel any resistance or fear, he shifted his body, until she was lying on the soft grasses. He leaned
over her, touching her from chest to knees. He nibbled a path across her jaw and down to her earlobe. “Sweet … Elise, you feel so good … so sweet,” he pressed closer. She had to feel the evidence of his arousal against her thigh. He lifted one leg to cover hers … God that felt good … her body was so warm and … before thinking, he moved his hips against hers. He heard her sharp intake of breath, but attributed it to the same desire that engulfed him, until he heard her trembling voice. “Cody … please…” He pulled back enough to look at her. Her eyes were wide with fear. The lips he’d lost himself in just moments ago were now thin and colorless; blanched along with the rest of her face, “Elise … don’t be afraid of me,” his voice was low. “You must know that I would never do anything to hurt you in any way. It kills me when I see that fear in your eyes.” He continued to look into her eyes, glad that she hadn’t slipped away from him again. He brushed his thumb across her quivering lower lip until he she released her breath. He studied her patiently. He knew it was happening too fast, but for the life of him, he couldn’t let her go. He searched his soul for the strength to release her. When she reached up and smoothed the crease between his eyebrows with her middle fingers, his body tensed. He squeezed his eyes shut in the sweet torture of her touch. When he opened them again, he was reassured by her calm expression. Her color had returned, indeed she had a warm glow. She pulled her hand away. He kissed the tip of her nose. “You have no idea what you do to me,” he groaned. “What is it?” she whispered. He rested his forehead against hers, the tips of their noses touched. “I want you,” he whispered, “I want to feel your skin against mine. I want to see pleasure in your eyes. I want you in my bed.” Cody knew that as true as they were, the words were inappropriate. Indecent, rude … a man didn’t say such things to a lady. As expected, she flushed. “I know it’s wrong. You’ve been hurt, and you probably don’t want to have anything to do with … a man.” He pressed his cheek against her temple. “God help me, it doesn’t stop me from wanting you.” He took a deep breath, then held her eyes with his. “But I swear I’d never do anything to hurt you.” She lowered her eyes to his mouth. It must have fascinated her, because she ran a fingernail beneath his lower lip. “I trust you Cody,” she whispered. Hearing her speak those words felt so good that it hurt. Her trust was a precious gift. He again covered her mouth with his, thrusting his tongue almost desperately. He inched his hand up toward her breast. This time she covered it with her hand and brought it to cover the tip that pressed through the fabric of her blouse. Her sigh of gratification muffled his. Tentatively he explored the soft mound, firm beneath his hands. Her back arched, bringing her closer to his chest. His thumb and finger rolled the peak of her breast until she tore her mouth from his to cry out. “I want you. So much,” he rasped, putting some distance between them, panting. “But not like this.” He pulled away from her and she raised heavy lids. “I need to go, and don’t…” he squeezed his eyes shut, “don’t look at me like that Elise. If I stay, things will
get out of hand. I don’t want you to ever regret anything we do together.” His thumb brushed across her lower lip, swollen lusciously from his kiss. “You understand?” Elise nodded. He added plucking kisses as he dragged his body from hers. He stood, pulling her up beside him. He held her hand in both of his and stared at their clasped fingers for a long time. Finally, he was able to back a step away. Then another. When her arm was outstretched its length, he released his hold on her fingers She lowered it to her side. Without another word, for he couldn’t trust his voice any longer, he untied Boomer, jumped into the saddle, and cantered away. **** That night, Elise lay still between her sheets. She felt as fragile as a smoldering log on a fire. Any movement threatened her collapse. Her body was unwilling to rest enough to slip into slumber; so she stared at her ceiling, wishing the plaster and paint held the answers to her questions. Cody had kissed her … touched her. Really, seriously touched her. Rather than being afraid, as she thought she would be, or repulsed, as she thought she should be, she was intrigued. He’d touched her. And she’d touched him. She pressed her cool hands against her hot cheeks. Was that really she? Where did that come from? Knowing the pain and debasement that came with … such intimacy. Pain? There was no pain. She searched her memory of the afternoon. She knew each detail. He hadn’t hurt her. Hadn’t he even stopped completely when the fear gripped her? Blood ran hot through her veins. Each time she remembered the tender look in his whiskey-colored eyes, her insides hummed. No pain. No debasement. Only tenderness. She turned onto her side, to stare out the dark window. Cody hadn’t taken more than she’d been willing to give. Indeed, he hadn’t taken at all. He’d … shared. Her pleasure pleased him; her fear stilled him. She knew her smile would be embarrassingly sappy if anyone could see her now. Since no one could, she indulged, until she finally slept. Each Wednesday that went by she picnicked at the same spot. She hated herself for hoping to see Cody. Each week, disappointment warred with self-reproach. One such day, while she lounged with only Flame for company, she again had the uneasy feeling of being spied upon. This time, she saw that the horse’s ears had twitched, and turned toward an unseen presence. “Whoever you are,” she announced, “I know you’re there. It’s extremely rude and childish to spy on someone.” As foolish as she felt for speaking to no one, she left the Oasis, as she’d come to call the spot, with a sense of power over her own destiny. Elise kept busy throughout the following days. Daniel borrowed Flame for quick rides into town for various supplies. The front entrance looked much more inviting now that the weeds were cleared and gravel had been raked into a pathway to the door. Daniel had to pull painful slivers from Elise’s hands after one strenuous day using an old hoe to rearrange plants in a more pleasing pattern. She tried not to think of Cody or his promising words that plagued her night after night, but to no avail. He’d left her thinking that he wanted to see her again. Every day she’d awaken with the hope that today would be the day. Every night she’d pummel her pillows with the frustration that she could even care.
“I think the land is ready to go on the market.” Daniel announced one day over dinner. “There are still some details to finalize, but we could continue working on those while cultivating prospective buyers.” Elise’s hesitation wasn’t in the work to be done; it was on Cody Campbell’s announcement to her months ago. Was the ranch hers to sell? She mulled that over during her next trip to the Oasis. After reading for a while on a quilt spread beneath the trees, she’d indulged in a short nap. Flame had awakened her with fretful prancing among the crisp fallen leaves. She pried open her eyes, grateful that the sun was still high and she hadn’t slept too long. Languorously, she stretched like a lazy feline. She heard the crunch of human footsteps and snapped upright. “Is it picnic day?” Cody was silhouetted, his face shadowed. Her eyes were fastened on him, causing her to squint against the sun. “I’m sorry, Flame already got your share,” she said. “Ahh, that’s my luck.” Cody eyed the newly repaired fence. Could he tell that she’d been the one to repair it? Did it look shabbily done? He said nothing about her workmanship, which relieved her. Instead he leaned against the post, placed one booted foot onto the taut wire and adjusted the brim of his hat. “How have you been Elise?” Hearing her name on his lips caused her pulse to jump. “I’ve been well. Busy of course.” He vaulted the fence, then walked casually over to the tree in front of her. She looked up at his tremendous height, feeling a bit overwhelmed by his towering form from her place on the ground. Just as she was about to rise, he lowered himself onto his heels, squatting mere inches from her. She feasted on the sight of him. It had been weeks since she’d last seen him. She’d begun to think that her imagination had embellished his masculine appeal, but not so; she was just as moved by his attractiveness. His hand moved to her hair. She dared not breathe. His fingers gently plucked a yellow leaf from her curls. She lowered her lashes to hide her disappointment. “My father is on his way home.” Elise knew what that simple statement meant. Cody had claimed that his father had proof of their ownership of the V-Bar. He was warning her that her days here were numbered. She kept her eyes averted while she searched for something to say. “I’m sure he’ll be exhausted. That’s quite a trip.” His fingers lingered in her hair. She raised her eyes to his when he didn’t take his hand away. She hadn’t moved from the position he’d caught her in, but now, impulsively, she turned into his hand, grazing her lips against the palm that rested against her cheek. The salty smell of it enticed her to remain. His thumb grazed her cheekbone. The caress was so intimate; so tender, she was captivated by its intensity. Without her knowing it, she reached up to trap his hand against her cheek. Cody fell to his knees, bringing himself up against her. “God, I’m sorry. I tried to … damn.” His other hand went unerringly to the other side of her face, framing it while he stamped his mouth over hers. She loved the feeling of his hand against her. When he released her mouth to trail nibbling kisses on her eyelids, she indulged in her fantasy and took the fleshy part of his hand between her teeth. She wanted to move his hand along her body like a healing balm that could cure her of the incessant itchiness that had pervaded her since their last encounter, but of course she couldn’t do such a wanton thing.
He reclaimed her lips, parting them with tender ferocity. His tongue mated with hers, stroking, filling. When his lips left hers, she looked fully at him. He held her away from him, his breath coming in gulps. Indecision colored his eyes, the hesitation evident in his body. Scarcely believing that she could do such a thing, but fearing he would bolt again if she did nothing, she raised her hands to the buttons on his shirt, and slipped them through the holes. She held his gaze, unwilling to look away. “Elise? Are you … tell me you know what you’re doing.” “I can’t say that I know, but I do want to learn,” Her gaze traveled down his face to the expanse of chest she’d revealed. She licked her dry lips. He sucked air through his teeth and struggled to free himself from the shirt. She marveled at the sculpting of his body. No artist could have dreamed up the muscular perfection, the smooth skin, rippling over taught muscles; the faint trail of dark hair beginning below his navel, a tantalizing preview of what was hidden beneath his trousers. He unbuttoned her shirtwaist, cursing his own clumsiness. She pushed herself upright, to slide from her shirt and undergarments, presenting her bare breasts to him for his approval. In answer, he pressed them against his chest, the contact against her erect nipples sent a shock through her abdomen. He covered one breast with his warm hand, whispering its praises into her ear, his hot breath melting her. He pressed hot kisses on her earlobe, then neck. She brought her hands up, to tangle in his thick dark hair. His fingers kneaded her nipple, causing a twisting in her lower body. She groaned, her breath coming shorter. She closed her eyes and tossed her head back onto her shoulders, and his warm mouth burned a trail down her neck to the nipple his hand had been covering. His tongue swirled around the stiff pink bud and she squirmed in delight, raking his hair, then grasping his shoulders. She fumbled for his belt, then the buttons down the front of his jeans. Only then did he pull away from her, enough to remove the last of his clothing. Her heart pumped the blood through her body so fast that her skin tingled, and she was dizzy with desire. His exposed body, in all his aroused glory, sent her blood lower, pounding through her in a way she’d never have believed possible. Her jaw dropped, most unladylike when she saw his stiff erection, much larger than Jonathan’s. A wry smile crossed his face. He covered her body with his, pressing her back onto the soft blanket-covered ground. “I won’t hurt you, Elise. I promise.” He took command of himself, lifted himself away. She allowed herself to explore his chest, each defined muscle, the stiff peaks of his nipples. She refused to close her eyes. That way lay memories she didn’t want or need. She didn’t want to remember anything, or think too much. She couldn’t touch his chest enough. The firm muscles surrounding his nipple lurched each time she dallied with them. She enjoyed the moans she had elicited. He worked on the buttons on the side of her skirt, then slipped one hand in against her hip, and around to where her thigh met the roundness of her bottom. His hands were rough against her skin, the difference from hers an exciting aphrodisiac. He reached further around, until his fingers encountered her feminine folds, slick with desire. “Oh God, Elise, you are so ready for me.” He moaned, then hurriedly removed the obstructing fabric, and kicked it aside. He covered her thigh with one of his. She was amazed by the tantalizing feeling of the skin on skin contact. She drew her hands even lower, she
wanted to touch him, to learn all she could about this man, assure herself that her body would accommodate such a large man. She knew it would hurt. It always hurt. For the first time she wanted to feel it. The promise of pleasure was there. Already she’d experienced more tenderness than she ever had. When she touched him so intimately, his body stilled. Elise felt a burst of panic. Had she done something wrong? Was her touch too bold? He dropped his head beside hers. His breath came in short bursts of air against her ear. Encouraged, she continued her explorations. He pressed his mouth against her neck, groaning, whispering in her ear, telling her exactly what her hands did to him. He touched every part of her skin, her arms, the soft quivering of her abdomen, then down to the curls beneath. He slid one finger down, to explore her wet heated flesh. She moaned. His fingers spun inside her, rubbing circles, sending her onto a fantastic trip inside her own body. The tingling, aching feelings consumed her, and she felt the first stirrings of fear. It was a fear of her own reaction; her intense feelings frightened her. She’d never experienced this, the culmination of deep feelings he had evoked. Cody’s magical touch was gentle, no anger, no rushed attempt at his own fulfillment. Only tender responses to her body. Even the fact that he spoke so gently to her, conversing with her as if her pleasure and participation were important to him, intoxicated her. The feel of his mouth and hands began to block out lucid thought. She didn’t want to slip into that numbing darkness. Fearing that reaction, she pushed against his shoulders. He pulled away to meet her eyes, his gaze steady and reassuring. Jonathan had never looked at her with such intensity, and never while … oh God! “Wait … just … give me a minute…” she was breathless. The mere thought of Jonathan snapped her away from the chasm she hovered over. He had invaded her thoughts even when she least expected it. Cody’s eyes held hers with calm understanding. She closed her eyes and took a breath. “I’m sorry,” she whispered, burying her flushed face in the strength of his shoulder. “I just … remembered him, and … he hurt me. I just … I’m afraid,” her words evaporated until the last word wasn’t audible. She was afraid to open her eyes. She didn’t want to see the anger in his. She braced herself for the repercussions. Instead, his lips kissed away a hot tear from her temple. “Too much?” he asked tenderly. “I don’t want to do anything to hurt you. Not in any way.” He squeezed his eyes shut and pressed her head against his shoulder. “I can stop. This isn’t about me.” At his words, she opened her eyes. What did he say? She couldn’t read his expression; it was buried in her hair. He held her against him, with a comforting hand stroking her shoulder. When the realization of his words hit her, her heart again began the plodding cadence of desire. He wouldn’t hurt her. It wasn’t about him. Lord, how she wanted to believe those words. Here he was, holding her with a tenderness she’d never known, telling her he’d be willing to walk away rather than hurt her. Another tear formed, this one of joy. She didn’t trust her voice, and she couldn’t form cohesive words. Instead, she pressed her mouth against his shoulder. Willing his essence to be absorbed by her lips. She wished she could crawl into him and live forever surrounded by his strength. Her heart burned with want of him. Need. She trailed her fingers from his armpit to his waist, smiling when she noticed the change in his breathing. When she touched him, she knew he was still aroused. When she released a satisfied sound, his head snapped up. The dark
glint in his eyes, she’d put it there. Her own felt round as saucers, and moist from her joyous tears. “I can stop if you want me to. Just give me the word.” His voice was rough. In response, she rolled her hips toward him. He rested against her, moving only millimeters at a time, then withdrawing, only to tease her again. He did this for many long moments, until she thought she would go mad with desire. “Cody … please…” “What is it Elise, what do you want?” he whispered. “I want… oh lord,” He smothered a knowing smile and slowly, deliberately slid into her. A satisfied, shuddered groan bubbled from Elise’s throat. He’d filled her completely. “Do I hurt you?” He grimaced, as though in pain himself. “No … oh no, not at all. It’s … wonderful…” With a satisfied growl, he began to move inside her, with slow and deliberate strokes to prolong the excruciating pleasure. Her hands moved to his back, drawing him closer with each thrust. She was acutely aware of his hands; one beneath her head, tangled in her hair, the other on her swollen breast. His tempo increased, he whispered her name hot into her ear, and nibbled on her earlobe. She opened herself to the pleasure rising within. It formed a tight ball in her loins, begging for release. She squeezed her eyes shut, and pressed her head against the curve of his neck. With a soft cry, he withdrew from her completely and shuddered against her. Beads of sweat collected on his brow and upper lip. He paused a moment before leaning up on an elbow, to give her a quizzing look. “Why did you stop? You were on the brink … I could feel it.” She wrinkled her brow, not understanding his question. “Stop?” “You’ve never … completed?” She gave him an inquisitive look. “God, Elise…” His hands smoothed her hair against the blanket. “It was so … good for me. I want you to enjoy it just as much.” She began to speak, she wanted to tell him just how he had pleased her. His fingers against her lips stilled her words. He smiled down at her, his hand left her mouth, trailed down her quivering body to find the velvety entrance to her womb. “Relax, Elise.” He kissed her neck with constrained passion. His fingers sent shocks through her body. He pressed his mouth against her shoulder, then across her chest, suckling and teasing each of her breasts. He worked his way down, his hand tantalizing her. “Cody … what are you … doing?” “Relax. I promise … just relax… I would never do anything to hurt you,” he whispered, his last words muffled by the blonde curls he lowered himself into. Elise forced herself to relax, and the shock of what he was doing faded. His thumb massaged in circles, his tongue spread delicious warmth, building the tension again. It was the most amazing feeling, his tongue inflaming her from the outside while his fingers teased her from the inside. Again she felt the building center in her womb. He moaned against her, the vibration sending her over the edge, one that she hadn’t known she teetered upon. That sphere inside her exploded into thousands of points, pulsating from her body. She called his name, in a breathless plea. He pulled himself up again to look into her eyes. Tiny spasms still coursed through her, each one a replica, a sweet reminder of that shattering pleasure. She searched for words to ask him what had happened to her,
and he grinned. “That, my dear, is the best part.” He smoothed her hair back, to nibble on her earlobe, then pulled the blanket over their bodies. “I… I didn’t know that such a … thing was possible!” She was still breathless. He chuckled. “Why did you … do that, Cody? Why didn’t you … stay?” His eyes flickered over her face, a serious set to his mouth. It was a long time before he answered. “I don’t think you want to take a baby along with you on your journey to a new life.” When his words registered, Elise smiled up at him, then snuggled into his chest. “I am unable to bear children,” she began quietly, then haltingly shared the story of her pregnancy, and subsequent loss with him. “I wasn’t going to tell him. That’s when I started planning an escape. I didn’t know at the time that he … timed my cycles, so he knew.” She swallowed hard. “I’ve never seen him so angry. He normally didn’t kick me, but that time … I … bled for months.” She dared not look at him, but his arms tightened protectively. He swore. Elise traced patterns onto his chest beneath her cheek. She was still blushing at her tale, never having shared her horrors with anyone outside of Daniel and Amelia. “You’ve been through so much. The fact that you let me get this close to you is…” he shook his head. “I didn’t want to hurt you.” “You didn’t—” “Not physically, but … God, Elise. I didn’t want this to happen. I mean, I did,” he hastened when her eyes widened, “I wanted this. Very, very badly.” His words were muffled by her hair. “At times I didn’t think I could stay away from you. I just hate the fact that I’m adding to your grief.” “Cody?” He was scrutinizing the sensitive reactions his fingers elicited from her breasts. “Hmm?” “I didn’t know that … it … uh … could be so…” He lifted his face to grin down at her. “So what, Elise? Tell me what you thought.” His eyes glittered in devilish delight. “It was … so … ah, Cody that feels good… Amelia said … hmm…” He chuckled and continued his ministering. He held her close until the sun dipped low. It would be too dangerous to ride home after dark. He dressed her, slapping away her hands if she tried to help. She rode away from him, and with each step Flame took, her body resisted the distance; as though she were tethered to him. More than once she glanced over her shoulder to where he stood, watching her until he was out of sight.
Chapter Thirteen Elise woke with a start. Something had awakened her from a sound sleep. She sat up, listening intently. It was still early morning, the sun just creeping above the tall mountains, giving the sky a dark grey hue, not yet bright enough for the warm colors of sunrise. Maybe she’d been dreaming. Just then, she heard the door of the stable hit the wall. She rushed to her bedroom window, wondering if Joe had caused the ruckus. The horse bolted out of the stable, and even in the dim light, Elise recognized Flame from the distinctive coloring on her nose. The rider, she realized with fear, wasn’t Joe. The man’s hair was so short, he looked to be almost bald. He snapped his dingy misshapen hat back onto his head, and looked around. Elise backed away, making sure the curtain didn’t move with her. She would be safe, with the darkness of the room enfolding her. When she peered around the corner again, she saw the retreating figure of horse and rider headed south. Joe’s horse! Elise threw on a pair of jeans; Joe could track them, if he had a fresh trail. “Did you hear that?” Daniel’s hushed tone confirmed her fear. Elise nodded. “Someone just rode away on Flame. I need to tell Joe, if he doesn’t know already.” She slipped on her boots, grabbed her pistol, and rushed through the kitchen door toward the stables. “Elise wait. Let me go ahead of you.” Elise followed Daniel’s stealthy movements across the yard. They crept purposefully toward the stable. The morning was grey; the sun still hadn’t reached the peaks of the mountains in the East. The crunching sound of their footsteps sounded loud in the stillness. When they reached the stable, Elise cocked her pistol, and kept it at eye level. Just then, she realized that the thief might not be alone. If there were an accomplice hiding in the stables, waiting … what would they do? She gripped the handle of her gun with clammy hands. “Joe?” Daniel called out, breaking the silence. There was no answer. She tiptoed around the corner into the stables. A movement close to the entrance made her jump. It was another horse, chewing on some hay. The grey horse was saddled, and she looked at them lazily, as though she belonged in the stable more than they. “Hello? Joe? Where are you?” The words hung in the air, a foreboding tinge to the air. She walked around the horse, the sound of her boots muffled by the hay. The sun’s first rays appeared over the mountain. The orange glow illuminated the body lying sprawled out before her. It was Joe, a surprised look on his face, a gruesome wound to his chest, blood pooling beneath him. A scream rose to her lips, but no sound came. “Joe!” Elise cried, rushing to his side. She shook his arm, willing him to rise. Daniel pressed two middle fingers on Joe’s neck. “He’s gone, Elise,” Daniel whispered painfully. Elise blinked at Daniel. She hadn’t heard correctly, because that was impossible. “No! Joe … wake up … oh God, Daniel … no!” Daniel pulled her to her feet and turned her away from the scene. “I’m sorry, Elise. There’s nothing we can do.” Elise sobbed, clenching Daniel’s shirt to still her shaking
hands. It wasn’t real. Joe… “What do we do?” “We need help.” Daniel said. “The thief left this horse; we’ll take it to the Campbell’s. They can get help.” Daniel guided the still shocked Elise to the horse, and mounted behind her. They rode as fast as they could, with one eye on the horizon, and the gun handy. The horse was not as swift as Flame, or perhaps she was tired, but the trip seemed to take an eternity. Who knew how long she’d been ridden before being dropped off at the V-Bar. “Not much farther, girl.” Elise assured the animal. “Then we’ll let you rest.” The shock of the morning’s discovery had sunk in, and she felt the urgent need to find Joe’s murderer. She would grieve later. The comforting scent of breakfast cooking from the bunkhouse created a strange experience on such an eerie morning. The horse had barely stopped, when Elise slid from the saddle, rushed to the house, pounded on the door. Daniel followed her, along with four cowboys who appeared out of nowhere. “Cody, please, come to the door!” Elise begged. When the door opened, Cody stood, wiping shaving lather from his face with a white towel. “Elise? What’s going on?” Elise tried to keep her voice steady as she blurted out the story, but the image of Joe’s body caused her voice to crack. Daniel had to finish relaying the morning’s events. “Please, we need to send word to the sheriff.” Cody’s face turned serious. He grabbed his holster from the chair by the door, and bellowed for Thomas. Thomas came from the stables, with Scout and another horse, one of the cowboys hastened to secure the saddle. “Johnson, go for Red,” Cody barked. Elise scurried along after him. “Go inside with Emily, we’ll be back tonight,” he told her “I’m going with you,” she said firmly. “No Elise…” his face was set in a resolute scowl. “I need to. I saw him. From my window; I can describe him to the sheriff.” She would follow him on foot if she had to. Cody looked to Daniel for assistance. “Please,” she implored, drawing his attention back to her. Cody hissed in frustration. “Leave that mare, she’s exhausted. Carlson, tend to this horse.” Another cowboy brought out a docile auburn mare, saddled and ready. Elise mounted without assistance. Once she was settled, Thomas led the way, flanked by two other riders. They rode quickly but silently. Elise wondered if the scene would ever leave her mind. Poor Joe. He must have been awakened by the intruder. She wondered if he had any loved ones to contact. She wiped the tears from her cheeks, knowing the dust would leave a muddy smear on her face. They arrived at the V-Bar, and Elise dismounted, to hold the reins, while Thomas and Cody rushed into the stable, guns drawn. The other two remained in the saddle, ready for action. They emerged moments later, faces grim. Thomas leapt back into the saddle. “The tracks lead due south.” Thomas waited for Cody to decide the next move. Cody looked torn. He considered the group of men for a moment, his face taut with resolve. Then he looked into Elise’s eyes and he softened. “You three go on. See if you can tell where he’s headed.” The horses pawed the earth impatiently, as if they knew their mission. “We’ll wait for the law here.” The three men rode away. Elise was in a trance. The event was surreal.
“We should wait inside.” “But Joe…” “We closed the doors. We’ll see to him later,” Cody tied Scout to the railing on the back porch. Elise made some coffee. Her hands shook when she passed a steaming cup to Cody. He took the cup, then wrapped a comforting arm around her shoulders. His strength was a welcome haven from her thoughts. “Do you think he’ll be back?” she asked. “I think he was just after a fresh horse. The one he left was probably stolen also.” “Joe was so … good and kind,” her voice quivered, her eyes blurred with tears. “I can’t imagine anyone wanting to hurt him.” He stroked her shoulders. “I don’t even know if he had family, or…” Cody set his cup down, to embrace her fully. He pressed a gentle kiss on her temple. She cried into his shoulder, finally allowing herself to mourn. More than an hour passed, before Thomas and his men returned, disappointed. “His tracks lead right to the river. Looks like he risked his neck to ride on them rocks, but it sure covered his trail.” Thomas removed his hat, and wiped the dust from his brow. Elise handed the men a cup of coffee, almost glad that they hadn’t encountered the perpetrator. “We tried about a mile either way, with no luck.” His words trailed off. Elise was grateful when Cody asked Thomas and the others to tend to Joe. She handed Thomas a white sheet and then watched through blurred eyes while they carried him to the bunkhouse. Cody wrapped his arm around her shoulder and guided her away from the window. With that chore complete, they all waited for the Sheriff around Elise’s kitchen table. They pondered continuing their own search for the outlaw. Paul was the most vehement about it. Elise got the impression that his bravado was exaggerated. “Come on. He’s getting farther away from us as we sit here jawin’. I ain’t afraid of no cowardly horse thief.” His eyes surreptitiously bounced back to Elise. She couldn’t concentrate on the men’s discussion on the murderer’s whereabouts. It was her fault that Joe died. If only she’d awakened five minutes before. If only she’d invited him into the house. If only she hadn’t all but forced him to stay in the first place, he’d be alive right now. Each time she glanced up from her morose musings, she would encounter Paul’s eyes. The sympathy in them was superficial; behind that oozed lewd interest. Each time she looked away, she was reminded of the uneasy feeling she had been experiencing when she was alone. To put some distance between them, she stood and went to the window overlooking the chicken pen. She hadn’t had that peculiar feeling since she met Cody that day. She closed her eyes and lowered her forehead to the cool glass. That day she had been initiated into an entirely new dimension of consciousness. Feelings and sensations that before she’d never even imagined were now awakened. Remembering that brought a warm flush to her breasts and cheeks. Through her blush, she glanced across the room at him and met his copper gaze. Before she could look away, she was rewarded by a warm understanding smile. They could have been the only two in the kitchen. Conversation went on around them, and still their eyes held. They communicated silently. She wanted to feel his arms around her. She longed to use his strength to banish the desolation and guilt. Divining her thoughts, he stood and crossed the room; ignoring the others, and holding her captive with his eyes. He opened his arms, and she walked into them. Tears dampened the leather vest as she clung to him. She could feel the strength
seeping into her body from his. The corded muscles beneath his shirt felt like thick cables wrapped in warm silk. How had she lived her entire life without knowing this man? How was she going to survive leaving him? It was another hour before the sheriff arrived. From Cody’s description and nickname of “Red”, she’d been expecting someone with red hair, but his salt and pepper tufts jutted out from his hat, as though he had been awakened by the call. He wore a long mustache, the ends reaching his chin. His legs were bowed almost comically, causing him to walk with an awkward gait. Elise described the assailant, his image burned into her memory. “Harry Tracy. He escaped from the prison just yesterday,” the sheriff’s face pinched in thought. “He stole a horse from a stable on the edge of town. A grey spotted mare?” Elise nodded. “She’s at the Campbell ranch. We rode her to get help.” The deputy followed them to the stables, where Joe lay. Elise waited outside, the warm sun doing little to ward off the chill that snaked around her bones. “You know who that is?” The sheriff asked her when he emerged from the shadowed building. “Yes. That’s Joe. He worked for me here on the ranch.” “Joe Akando. How’d you come across him?” Elise wondered at the question, but related his arrival without the usual details. The sheriff nodded, her explanation didn’t seem to surprise him. “Joe just got outta prison too. Released after close to twenty years. I seen him ride his new horse clear from town. Had no idea where he was goin'.” “Joe? In prison?” Elise was shocked. “Why? What did he do?” “Well, if ya ask me, not a thing.” He shook his head. “’Cept for falling for a young white girl. When she ended up with child, her daddy pressed charges, claiming Joe raped his daughter.” He pulled a fat cigar from his breast pocket and lit it, taking a deep draw on it before continuing. “The girl did as daddy told her. Claimed she was raped. Put the baby in the orphanage, which is where the poor boy stayed … ’til he was grown.” Elise looked at Cody, her realization mirroring his. Jake. This was Jake’s father. Now she knew what Joe was doing on her land. He came to meet his son. “Go get Jake,” he told the men, “Tell Carlson to make a coffin, and we need that horse back here, she’s stolen.” The men nodded, and turned to go. “He was a good man. Life dealt him a tough hand.” The sheriff shook his head. Elise cried quietly, when she entered the bunkhouse to see Joe. His limbs were arranged peacefully, a clean denim shirt buttoned to his neck, hiding his mortal wound. His cold hands were crossed on his stomach. She smoothed his hair from his forehead. “Jake’s coming, Joe. Your son.” She covered his hand with hers. “You finally get to meet your boy.” Tears rolled down her cheeks at the injustice that this man suffered. She prayed at Joe’s side, tears dropping onto her hands. Jake arrived along with Daniel, just as Elise finished cooking breakfast, serving the sheriff, Thomas and Cody, while they discussed Harry Tracy, and the best way to find him. “Where is he?” Jake asked. “He’s in his room. In the bunkhouse.” Elise laid a sympathetic hand on his forearm. “Would you like me to go with you?” she asked with concern. Jake shook his head
numbly, and turned to go. When he entered the bunkhouse, Elise turned away from the window; her heart ached for the amiable young man. She thought of her own father’s death. Again, she said a silent prayer for the two men, who without meeting, had been joined in tragedy. When Jake returned, his somber face held none of the boyish innocence she’d seen when he’d led her to the Campbell’s ranch the day she met him. He sat stiffly at the table, alongside Thomas. “I’d met him,” he began, “It was during my first week on the job. Didn’t know my way around yet; hadn’t met all the other hands. This man came out of nowhere, and walked straight up to me. Like I was someone important that he had been waiting to meet.” He twisted the gloves in his hands. “He said something… I didn’t understand the words he used, but he was smiling. I just thought he was some crazy old man. I smiled back, and he shook my hand. It makes sense now.” His eyes dropped to the floor. “I wondered about my father since I was a little kid. At least I got to shake his hand.” Elise dabbed at the tears on her cheeks. Carlson and Paul returned early in the evening, a swiftly made coffin constructed of pine laying in the back of the wagon that Elise had come to recognize, the stolen mare tied to the rear. She couldn’t watch, as Joe’s body was brought out, and loaded. Jake stood at the end of the coffin, his hat at his chest, his head bowed. The wagon followed the sheriff’s back into town.
Chapter Fourteen “I’m leaving my men here,” Cody told Elise after the sun set. Elise glanced around, wondering who he’d meant. “What? Why?” “How can you ask me that? You didn’t think I’d leave you here alone with what happened here this morning.” “He won’t be coming back. He knows there aren’t any more horses to steal.” Pleasing warmth fill her chest, Cody was worried about her, and wanted to protect her. “Why would a murderer return to the scene of his last crime?” “I’m not taking any chances,” Cody stepped closer to her, to lay one hand on her shoulder. “Think of it as a business decision. I told you this is my ranch, which makes you and Daniel my employees. I’m just protecting my investment.” He softened the speech with the characteristic wink. Elise blushed, but looked away. She didn’t want to think about that. “Really, Cody, we’ll be fine. I’ll lock the doors, and I’ll have my pistol…” Just then, Cody’s men approached, waiting for their next assignment. Cody was torn. On one hand, he couldn’t possibly leave them alone; he wouldn’t sleep a wink from worrying about her. On the other hand, he couldn’t leave them with Paul, whom he’d seen leering at Elise more than once today, until Cody’s ice-cold glare put a stop to it. “I’m staying too,” he told her softly. Elise began to smile, then her face turned serious. “That probably isn’t a good idea either,” she whispered. “I’m not afraid of your sleepwalking.” He smiled, wanting so much to pull her body against his, to soothe the sadness that had been etched on her face all day. The thought of staying in the same house as Elise was bittersweet. He would have to maintain his distance. She wouldn’t want Daniel to know… Realizing that she might be ashamed of her relationship with him caused him to frown. This wasn’t what he wanted for her. Try as he might, he couldn’t think of any other way. Elise was unavailable. He was using her, and now she’d been forced to keep secrets from her friend. The ache in his chest caused another grimace. What had he done? “Cody? What is it?” She reached out and laid a tentative hand on his forearm, her eyes questioning. When he met the blue depths, he shook his head. “I’m just trying to imagine spending the night in the house with you, without touching you,” he whispered close to her ear. **** Daniel and Elise gathered linens for the beds in the bunkhouse. They offered to dress the beds, but the two men assured them that they could handle the chore, and they left the kitchen with their thanks. They turned then to see Cody pour himself another coffee. “I hope you don’t plan on sending me out there with the boys.” He turned to face them, a cocky tilt to his grin. Daniel scoffed. “There is plenty of room in here.”
After they spread the wind-crisped sheets onto the bed in the larger spare room, Daniel pulled Elise before him, as he had when she was young, right before a good talking to. “Elise. Don’t feel like you have to keep your feelings for that young man at bay for my sake.” Elise blushed. Daniel’s straightforwardness always shocked her. “I know, Daniel. You would never judge me.” She looked to the floor. “It isn’t … proper, though.” “Proper? Wasn’t that what made you stay with that beastly husband of yours? Propriety?” Elise couldn’t cover her foolish smile. “If it’s right … for both of you, Elise, then it’s proper. There isn’t any reason to punish yourself for the rest of your life just to satisfy propriety.” Elise smiled at her dearest friend and thanked the Lord for the millionth time for sending her one of his angels. “Daniel, what would I do without you? You make everything seem so … uncomplicated.” They embraced. “It’s just so … hard. I don’t want to fall in love with him. It would just make everything much more difficult when we leave.” Daniel pondered that for a few moments. “If we left today, it would hurt just as badly.” Elise absorbed that, knowing, as usual, that Daniel was right. **** When Daniel and Elise returned to the room, Cody handed her a glass of sherry. When she looked up at him, he saw a mischievous glint in her eye. After Daniel turned away, Cody winked at Elise, the action now an intimate gesture from which he could count on a strong reaction. Coyly she lowered her eyes. What was going on inside that beautiful head? The three sat by the empty fireplace, staring into it while they reminisced over the few short weeks they had known Joe, and the effect on Jake. “Sounds like he’s been through plenty enough already.” Daniel said sadly, “But he’s got honest stable work. I think he’ll be fine.” They talked into the night, recalling the amusing way they’d managed to communicate, until Elise found herself smiling at her memories. “Goodness, it’s much too late for an old man.” Daniel stood to leave. “I’ll bid you youngsters goodnight. Turn down the lights for me, would ye?” Daniel closed his bedroom door behind him, Elise faced him. God he wanted this woman. The firelight burnished her hair, and he wanted to run his fingers through it. It made her skin glow and he’d give anything to see her burn from within. “It’s going to kill me,” he said. “What?” “Tonight. I have been sitting beside you for almost an hour, and I haven’t even touched you.” She studied him. He had pressed himself into the corner of the sofa, forcing himself further from her, not trusting any intimacy. He remained still, but the tension was evident in his white knuckles. To his surprise, Elise giggled, and crawled up his body, planting smacking kisses up his neck. He drew further away, refusing to touch her. “Elise, stop.” “Do you know what Daniel said to me, while we dressed your bed?” She murmured
in his ear. She didn’t continue until he groaned. “He gave me permission to ravage you,” she whispered with a naughty grin He wrapped his arms around her, and pulled her down on top of him. He covered her mouth with hot kisses, like a condemned man granted a pardon. “You waited an hour to tell me this?” He murmured between kisses, while his hands pulled the pins from her hair. He kissed her voraciously. Her hands were tangled in his hair, her body calling out to his. When he felt the timid thrust of her tongue inside his mouth, his body inflamed. He only released her mouth when he had to, in order to take gulping breaths. A glance down her body proved to him that she was just as breathless. She wanted him. God, how good that was to know. After all she’d been through. He pressed his cheek against her temple, reveling in the sensation that that knowledge brought. He treasured her trust. Her desire. He breathed in the floral scent of her hair. When she moved away from him, he panicked. Was he wrong? Her eyes were swimming with liquid heat. The sensuous smile behind them was that of a powerful woman who knew what she wanted, and was intent on getting it. He didn’t object when she separated herself from his grasp, and slid off the sofa. To his delight, she took his hand and led him into her bedroom. Inside, she closed the door quietly then began removing his shirt, nuzzling his chest through his undershirt. His breathing had become ragged, and he had to focus in order to feed oxygen to his brain. Through half-closed lids, she watched him slowly remove her clothing. “Elise, you are so beautiful,” he whispered, his eyes taking in her nakedness, feasting on her creamy flesh. He quickly removed the last of his own clothing and crushed her against him. He murmured in appreciation, lowering her onto the bed. His hands touched every inch of her, teasing each nerve ending until she begged for his touch against her breasts. “So soft … cool satin skin.” His whispers in her ear turned her pliant beneath him. “Touch me, Cody. Touch me all over.” His hands became more urgent, reaching into her hair, to grasp it hungrily. His sex pressed against her soft thigh. He didn’t want to enter her just yet, his tension had built to such a level that he thought he might spill on contact with her silken walls. He took a deep breath, and slowed the pace. He lowered himself to admire her breasts. The pink hard nipples advertised her aroused state. He took one into his warm mouth, gripping it gently with his teeth to draw it further in against his tongue. Elise arched her back. She combed her fingers through his hair, holding him fast against her. Only then did he move away from the one, and begin with the other. Her fingers curled around his muscular shoulders, pulling him up, begging him to take her. “I need you … please Cody, now…” The words sent a thrill through his loins. He answered with a quick thrust, embedding himself inside her, his teeth clenched as the shock vibrated through his body. The soles of his feet burned from the fire within him. He brought his head down to watch her, her eyes closed in ecstasy. “Look at me,” he breathed, moving languorously inside her. She lifted heavy lids to his, the desire blatant. He rested on one elbow, strong fingers softly stroking her cheek. “You feel so good. So tight and warm.” He reached down to the triangle of blonde curls, his fingers teasing the bud against his staff. Her eyes rolled back, raw with feeling. “Look
at me, Elise. I want to watch you.” Again, she focused on his face. Watching her eyes dilate felt like he’d had a shot of strong liquor. She licked her lips, as he moved ever so slowly inside her. Cody kissed her, drawing her lower lip into his mouth, sensuously sucking on it, until she moaned against his mouth. He held her gaze, enjoying her wondrous expressions as he coaxed her to her pinnacle. She squealed his name, muffled in his shoulder, when it overtook her; he continued to press with his hand; his thrusts became more forceful. The contractions of her body heightened his desire, until finally; unable to prolong it further, he allowed his own completion. He lay nestled inside her for endless moments, until their bodies had come down from their high. She stroked his back, inciting goose bumps and pleased groans. “I love to feel you … inside me.” He was still sheathed within her, neither wanting it to end. “No regrets?” he asked, nibbling her ear “None,” she replied, honestly. His expression turned solemn. “Marry me,” he said, certain and serious. The look she gave him clearly told of her doubts of his sanity. Foolhardy as his words were, he knew without a doubt that he was in total control of his senses. “Cody! You know I can’t do that.” Her words were so quiet, he had to strain to hear them. He didn’t release her from his intense stare. Her answer to his next question would either kill him, or give him wings to fly. “Do you love me?” His own voice was low and quiet. She gasped, and then held her lower lip between her teeth. “More than I ever thought possible.” Lord, how that answer pleased him. He pressed his lips long and hard against her forehead. “And I love you Elise. I can’t see myself growing old with anyone else. Marry me. Stay here with me.” His eyes were pleading; his hands gripped her shoulders. “But you know that I can’t.” A tear formed in her eye. “I love you,” he said simply. “If you love me, then there isn’t anything stopping us.” He brushed the tear away from her cheek with his thumb. “Don’t say that, Cody. You know there is much more to it than that … if only it was so easy.” Another tear followed the first; it hurt to see it roll down her cheek and into the blonde waves beneath. He bent his head to kiss it away. “I’ll keep you safe. He can’t hurt you here,” he slipped his arms beneath her to pull her against him protectively. “We will be married, Elise. I don’t care what it takes.” He grew again within her. When she gasped, he smiled. Her body expanded to accommodate him, which excited him further This time their lovemaking was fierce and tumultuous, with his arms clenched around her, barely allowing her to move. They regained their strength together while their minds worked on the logistics. When he pulled back to see her again, his eyes glinted with mischief. “Say yes.” “I can’t. I want to. Nothing would make me happier.” “Then say yes.” “I love you.” “Then marry me.”
“You are incorrigible,” she giggled. “Would you ever marry someone as incorrigible as me?” he asked innocently. “Yes, of course,” her jaw dropped when she realized his trick. “That wasn’t fair!” “You know what they say about love and war,” he grinned devilishly, and rolled to his side, pulling her along with him. “I want to go to sleep with you beside me every night. I want to wake up during the night, with your hair tangled in my whiskers. I want to touch you … whenever I want.” He played with her hair, lost in his musings. “I want you to raise our children.” “Cody, don’t. Please.” “Elise, we can adopt. There are so many children who need parents.” He knew her mind went to Jake and his tragic childhood, just as his did. “I just want you. That’s all.” He said nothing more, and he basked in her warmth. Her breathing became deep and even, and Cody pressed his mouth against her crown. **** She awoke much later, alone in her bed. The moon had sunk beyond the horizon, and dawn approached. She smiled, remembering the sweet words he whispered as she lay in his protective embrace. She smoothed her hand over the impression that his head had left on the pillow beside her, and drifted back into a peaceful slumber. The smell of coffee awoke her again, hours later. The sun streamed through her window. She stretched, and then rose to dress. Knowing that Cody was in her house. She took additional care with the chignon. Her hands shook, and she couldn’t hide the giddy smile pasted to her face. “He left about fifteen minutes ago,” Daniel said, when she walked into the room. “He said that he didn’t want to wake you, but he had work to do.” Elise blushed, and then smiled at her friend. “Maybe I came in to say good morning to you, Daniel.” “Not bloody likely,” he smiled. “You aren’t very good at hiding your feelings, Elise. At least not when it comes to Cody.” “That bad?” Elise poured herself a cup of coffee. “If it makes you feel better, he isn’t any better at it.” Elise stared at her friend, unable to keep the grin off her face. “I trust things between you two are going well.” Elise nodded, and then blushed. “He wants me to marry him.” “That’s…” “You know I can’t, Daniel.” Elise interrupted. “I’m still a married woman. I’m out here pretending. Playing a part,” She dropped her head, “I can’t marry him. No matter how much I…” Elise sat at the table, staring into the cup of black liquid. “I love him.” Daniel placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.
Chapter Fifteen “Flame?” Elise stood on the front porch, adding the last coat of varnish onto the front door. The creaking rumble of Thomas’ wagon interrupted her work. “Daniel! Come quickly … Flame is back!” she squealed in delight, and as giddy as a young girl, she launched herself into the horse. “Oh, Flame I’m so happy to see you … where have you been? Did you get enough to eat…” Thomas chuckled, and jumped down from his seat to interrupt her babbling. “She’s been treated like a queen at the Stonehouse Stables in town since they found her.” “Who found her? Where … what happened? ” Just then she became aware of the other man who traveled with Thomas. His eyes were deep blue, a white mustache framed the sides of his lips to his chin. He removed his black Stetson, and smiled. “Mr. Campbell! Welcome home.” She immediately recognized him, and remembered the hearty laugh that always accompanied him. “Did you enjoy your trip?” “I did. It’s so good to see you again Mary, or is it Elise?” “I go by Elise now.” She tucked a wayward strand of hair behind her ear. Alan Campbell graced her with a warm bear hug, then held her at arm’s length to study her. “I hope you don’t mind me just dropping by. Thomas told me about your arrival here, and I couldn’t wait to see you again.” He gave her a serious look. “You’ve changed a bit, since I last saw you. You look just like your mother.” “Thank you. That is a wonderful compliment.” She flushed. “And your father… I was very sorry to get the news.” His eyes didn’t waver from hers. “Thank you again,” she whispered. “He’d be happy to see you here.” “I like to think so.” She took his proffered arm, and walked with him into the foyer. Elise introduced Alan to Daniel, who had set out a tray with coffee and iced tea. It amazed her that he was always ready for company. She perched on the edge of the sofa. “Tell me about Flame. Did the sheriff find Harry Tracy?” “Uh … well yeah, I guess you could say that. Tracy was strung up outside the jail when the old man came to work one day,” said Thomas. “Strung … you mean hanged?” Elise covered her mouth. “Did he … turn himself in … and…” “No, he didn’t hang himself,” Alan said, “The owner of the horse he’d stolen and a group of other … er … citizens got together and tracked him down.” “Yeah, ol Red was fumin’. He takes it as an insult when folks form a lynch.” Elise took a moment to consider this. “The speed of justice out here would take some getting used to, I suppose.” Elise hated to think of what would happen if the lynch mob got a hold of someone who was unjustly accused. “At least folks in Laramie took the news of Joe’s death with the seriousness that it warranted.” The men shifted, and glanced at each other uncomfortably. Elise was about to ask
what she had missed when Daniel interrupted her thoughts. “Please tell us all about your trip, Mr. Campbell. I’ve never been to France.” “Alan. Please,” he waved away the formality. “I knew I wanted to go, before I got too old and decrepit. I’m glad I went, but glad I’m home too.” Alan regaled them with the highlights from his trip, the abundance of wine, and the frustrating absence of what he called “good American whiskey”. “I wish I had some to offer you, but all we have right now is a bottle of cooking sherry.” Elise gestured toward the empty sidebar in the room. Alan stood then, and inspected the sitting room. “You’ve been busy, haven’t you,” he remarked. Something in his tone warned her that he wasn’t bearing glad tidings. His back was to her, and she knew that it was by design. “Yes, we have. It was … therapeutic.” She hated the fact that she couldn’t control the wavering in her voice. He faced her again, and she couldn’t help but return his kind smile Thomas cleared his throat, “Hey, uh Daniel could you help me bring in the groceries? I brought back that … tool you wanted.” “Of course,” Daniel scrambled to follow Thomas through the front door, which closed behind them with an ominous click. Elise bowed her head miserably. “You have bad news for me, don’t you Mr. Campbell,” she focused on her hands which were clasping and unclasping in her lap. “Ahh, Elise. Surely Cody told you?” He sat beside her on the small sofa, and peered into her eyes. “Yes, he did. But … he didn’t have the deed, so I didn’t … I didn’t believe him…” she swallowed hard to keep the tears that threatened to fall. “I didn’t want to.” “Your father sold the V-Bar to me right before I left for France.” At this point he pulled out a document from the inside pocket of his coat. “I had the deed locked in a box in the bank.” Elise felt the room close in around her. Darkness enveloped the corners and crept toward her. “Thomas filled me in when he picked me up this morning.” Elise looked at the deed through blurred eyes. “His will must have been outdated.” There was a new strength in her voice. She had prepared for this. It shouldn’t be a shock. She lifted her chin. Her eyes, stung with unshed tears. No she wouldn’t cry. They had a plan. She tugged that resolve around her like a cloak. Time to move on. “I apologize for the misunderstanding. I hope that you aren’t planning on having us arrested for trespassing.” He laughed the characteristic way that she remembered and chucked her under the chin. “For cleaning up the place? They’d toss me away for even thinking of it. In fact,” he reached into the same pocket for another envelope. “I don’t want you to think that you wasted your time on the V-Bar.” She peered inside and gasped. Elise dared not count the bills, but there was more than enough to cover their remodeling and upcoming traveling expenses. “Mr. Campbell, you can’t…” “Alan,” he interrupted. “Alan, that’s very generous of you, but I can’t accept…” “That isn’t charity, Elise,” he puffed up indignantly. “It’s a business transaction.
There was work to do here, you and Daniel busted your … selves to get it done. I would pay any of my men to do what you’ve done. I’m just making it right.” Elise worried that she might have insulted him. “But Cody says you are going to have the house demolished. The work we’ve done is of no consequence.” “We’d thought about it. At the time there wasn’t a reason to keep it.” Her eyes dropped to her lap again. “But,” he ducked to meet her gaze, “with all the work you’ve done, I think I’ve changed my mind. In fact, on the way home, I thought about retiring over here. Cody’s running the ranch just fine without me. Hopefully he’ll fill that old house up with a wife and kids soon, then I’ll just be in the way.” Cody with a wife and kids? She would have thought that her heart couldn’t sink any lower than it had already. She pushed the image from her mind. She had no hold on him. Her time here was temporary. Cody knew that, and so did she. “The V-Bar means a lot to you, doesn’t it?” “I didn’t think it would, but I would hate to know that it would end up a pile of lumber.” Would Cody and his family visit grandpa at the V-Bar? Would his sons resemble him? Would his daughters have him wrapped around their little fingers? Would his wife love him as much as Elise did? Alan Campbell allowed her to think in silence for long moments, until he told her, “I want you to stay. For as long as you want. Edward would want it that way. He would’ve loved to see the pride in your eyes when you speak of the V-Bar. “Thank you, I appreciate that, but Daniel and I have made the necessary plans.” He didn’t ask what they were. “I’ve told Thomas to start tearing down the fence between the two, just so you know. I hope the cattle don’t get in your way.” He moved to the door. “Well, I best be getting home.” Daniel held her, running a consoling hand up and down her back, while they watched Alan and Thomas steer the wagon toward the Campbell Ranch. Her silent tears soaked his lapel. She cried for all the work they had done. Irrationally, she wanted a new family to enjoy the V-Bar as much as she had growing up. She wanted to see another little girl galloping through the fields with her hair blowing behind her. At least she knew that it wouldn’t be leveled. She cried because her voyage was onto its second leg. She wasn’t ready to leave Wyoming behind. Who was she kidding? She didn’t want to leave Cody behind. Alan told her that she could stay. She could remain at the V-Bar, close to Cody! No. An illicit affair isn’t what she wanted. It isn’t what Cody would want. He wanted marriage. And children. Both were impossible, Jonathan had seen to that. The longer she stayed, the harder it would be to leave. Slowly, her tears dried. Daniel, in his grandfatherly way, smiled down at her. “Are you ready?” Elise took a deep breath and lifted her chin. “I am.”
Chapter Sixteen The hotel room was comfortable, large enough for two beds and a sitting area. Elise liked it on sight. Her last few days in Laramie Wyoming would be spent in the most luxurious hotel in town. The Depot Hotel was attached to the Depot itself, which was the convenience. The fact that it boasted the city’s only indoor plumbing was the luxury that thrilled Elise. The rain pattered on the windows, creating a soothing serenade. Just like they had done the past two evenings, Daniel sat by the small fireplace, reading by the light of the gas lamp and Elise sat across the room, gazing out the window. She’d been right not to say goodbye to Cody. That would have just made leaving harder. And already it was the hardest thing she’d ever done. The handle to the door rattled. Elise and Daniel both jumped. The door was locked, but whoever was on the other side wasn’t swayed by the bolt. One pound, then another. A body slammed against the lock. Who could it be? Elise touched her waistband, but the pistol wasn’t there. She’d removed it when she came inside for the night. Glancing around, she spied it on the bedside table. She rushed toward it when the door flew open. In the doorframe stood Jonathan. His dark clothing soaked from the rain, he simply stood. His menacing stance filled the doorway. “Sweet Jesus,” Daniel breathed. Elise’s mind raced. She had prepared herself for this day since she’d left Virginia, but now that she faced him, she was at a loss. Her pistol was out of reach, and she dared not even look at it, lest he see it there. She stared at him; the rain and her pulse the only sounds of consequence in the room. Minutes seemed like hours. His tense body emanated raw fury. He tossed the book in his hand aside; the wet leather caused a loud snap as it hit the wooden parquet. “Jonathan,” Elise said, his name escaping her lips came out more of an announcement than a greeting. Daniel shifted in a small attempt to shield Elise from his wrath she was certain. “That’s right,” Jonathan spat, “Jonathan Stanton. Your husband. I’m glad to know that you haven’t forgotten my name, though you seem to have forgotten yours.” He sneered, slamming the door behind him. He’d broken the jamb, and the bolt stuck out helplessly. The door swayed back open. Jonathan crossed the room deliberately, his eyes narrowing on Elise. “You left without saying goodbye, dear wife,” his voice turned sweet. “I was so worried about you…” Elise was too shocked to say a word. This was the last thing she’d expected. During the past few weeks they had relaxed their guard. Elise knew, in her heart, that he was going to kill her. He would never allow her to go on; knowing that she’d left him once. His piercing blue eyes never left hers; the anger was so raw that it penetrated her. He moved in a wide circle around the room, each step calculated. Daniel moved again to remain in front of Elise, who was acutely aware of the nearness of her pistol, close enough to touch, yet still out of reach. Jonathan disregarded Daniel and his attempts at guarding her from his rage. “I’ve been looking for you wife,” Jonathan snarled. Rainwater dripped from his hat
onto his sharp nose. “You promised to love and honor me. For the rest of your life.” His voice was quiet, but the intensity was fierce. Jonathan’s hands were clenched into fists. She could smell the whisky emanating from his pores, and recognized the dialect of her husband’s state of intoxication. Her usual reaction was to fall to the floor, and beg for mercy. Instead, her newfound strength allowed her to meet his eye “Jonathan,” she began, “you don’t need…” “Need?” He shouted. “This has nothing to do with my need. You are nothing. No man needs a woman; it is the woman who needs a man.” He preached, his words slurred, and he moved closer yet. “I don’t need you, wife. You are my burden.” He reached up, and she braced herself for the blow. Instead, he had reached beyond her for her pistol, snickering at her reaction. Elise’s heart dropped. Now she had nothing. No defense. He would use her own pistol to murder her. “Mr. Stanton…” Daniel began. “Shut up, old man!” He shouted, only now facing Daniel. “This is how you repay your employer? Kidnapping your charge?” He struck him with the butt of the pistol. Elise clamped her mouth closed over her scream when Daniel staggered against the wall from the force. Jonathan’s hate filled gaze bounced from Daniel to her and then back. He stepped closer to continue. “Is she more than that to you now? Have you sampled her goods? Are you two a happy little family now? Did she use that nimble tongue on you before spreading her thighs?” Each sentence ended with a blow that cracked against Daniel’s skull. “Jonathan, wait…” Elise rushed in between the two, her shaking hands on his arms, pleading with him. He could take her life, but she had to try to keep Daniel safe. The only way out of this now, was to feign regret. “It was my fault. He tried to talk me out of this trip. It was my idea, Jonathan.” He looked into Elise’s eyes. The sharpness seemed to soften just a bit. She hoped he believed her. “I’m so sorry, Jonathan. Today I sent him to buy train tickets … we were leaving tomorrow. I was coming home!” To save her life, she must make him believe that she was happier with him, in Virginia. She would have to pull off the most believable show, but it was the only way to survive this one. Daniel slumped to the floor while Jonathan once again disregarded him. Yes, she thought, focus on me. She couldn’t spare a glance at Daniel. Nothing must give away her true concern. “I thought I was strong enough to be alone, out here in the west,” she began, attempting to revert back to her old cowardly ways. “But now I know that I was wrong. I … need you.” With those words, Elise died inside. All of her work, all of her preparations, all gone. Here she was, begging Jonathan to take her back. A tear formed, and clung to her bottom lash. “Please, Jonathan, take me home.” Her words ate her from the inside, but at least she wouldn’t have to fake the poignant expression on her face. Jonathan studied her with red-rimmed eyes. He stank of alcohol and sweat. The stains on his clothing looked to be days old, hinting that he was sleep-deprived as well as intoxicated. Still, it was she who was on the receiving end of his disparaging scrutiny. When he finally spoke, she was able to smell the rotgut on his breath. It took supreme act of will to refrain from turning her head in disgust. “Of course, you will return to our home, Mary.” his voice barely softened, his lip continued to curl in sarcasm. “But you must know that your act of disobedience requires
punishment.” At this, Daniel scrambled to stand. Jonathan shot a piercing glare down at him, raising his hand again threateningly. “This does not concern you.” “Dismiss him, Jonathan, please…” Elise prayed that Daniel would understand. She stepped closer to Jonathan, something she hadn’t done since their courting days. “Send him out, so that we may be alone.” Elise mustered all of her newfound strength into the part she now played. Her life, and Daniel’s also, depended on it. Jonathan studied her, his lips tightened into a thin line. He grasped her chin, drawing her so close to his mouth that his words sprayed on her face. “Now where would he go, dear wife? Straight to the sheriff? Do you think I’m that stupid? Daniel stays here. Out of our way, but in my sight.” “I would rather be alone with my husband,” Elise implored, touching his forearm with as much demure appeal as she could muster. Jonathan looked pointedly at her hand, resting on his wet jacket sleeve, and she removed it. “He stays. If you are embarrassed to perform your newfound bedroom skills in front of him, I will be happy to beat him into unconsciousness.” He pushed her away from him and looked disgustingly at Daniel, slumped and bleeding between the wall and the bed. Elise considered making a run for the door, but Jonathan was only moderately drunk, not enough to miss any detail, only enough to make his hand fly quicker. “Lie face down on the floor old man. You move an eyelid and you’ll be praying for death.” Daniel shuffled his battered body to do his bidding. Elise could not take her eyes off of Jonathan’s face. It was detrimental to her plan. She forced a shy smile up at the man who invaded her every nightmare, and who’s nearness was physically assaulting. Although this was not how she imagined her new confidence to be tested, she now rose to the challenge. She could survive the night. She knew that she would receive a harsh beating, and he would likely be rough with his husbandly duties, but she had lived through it before. Cody was right. She should have stayed at the V-Bar. She would have been safe there. Safe in his arms at the Campbell ranch. The thought of Cody caused Elise to flush. She didn’t want Cody to see her like this, or even more importantly, after tonight’s punishments. Her heart dropped. She knew she would never see Cody again. “What have you been doing, woman?” Jonathan began, his voice calmer, yet still curt. “Life in Wyoming not agreeing with you?” His body wavered, he pressed the side of the gun to his temple. He waved her over, roughly grabbed her hand and studied the new calluses, and shortened fingernails. “No,” she lied, looking down also, grateful that she could now hide her eyes. She eyed her pistol hanging from his fingers, and another strapped to his thigh. “I’ve had to work terribly hard. You were right, about so many things. This is no place for a lady.” Elise almost choked out the words, still hoping he believed her. “Can I get you some whiskey, Jonathan?” She pulled her hands from his, moving away to the sidebar. He held her fast, looking at her with a disbelieving scowl. “Why would you have whiskey here?” He bit the words. His face reddened. Elise read his facial cues, and smiled sweetly. “It came with the room; I don’t know how good it is.” She forced her heart to slow; she could not show her fear. He seemed to believe her though, and released her to serve him. She was afraid to turn her back on him, but it could not be avoided. Jonathan walked
through the room, removed his wet cloak and tossed it over a chair. Elise turned around with his drink, remembering that his beatings were often more violent when he’d been drinking, but shorter. She would survive. She watched him, gathering her confidence to approach him. He appeared calmer already, and he hadn’t struck her yet. Drawing in a breath, she crossed the room. “I’ve missed you, Jonathan,” she managed to say. “I was surprised to see you, but I’m so glad you came for me.” She lowered her chin; a submissive gesture that she knew would calm him. He gripped her jaw with his fingers, squeezing hard, and forced her eyes to his. “Is that so?” he used his other arm to wrap behind her, and pull her to him. She was painfully aware of the firearm missing from her possession. “Are you telling me that you have been faithful to me all this time? You haven’t forgotten to whom you belong?” Something in his eye told her that he knew about Cody. “No. No one, no one knows we are even here…” this lie was more difficult. “I’ve been so lonely.” He snatched the drink from her hand, questioning the truthfulness to her statement. “But you’ve lived alone with Daniel. That is highly improper, don’t you think?” He tossed the whisky down his throat in one motion, and shoved the empty glass back toward her, nodding toward the bar. Elise took his glass, glad of any excuse to escape his nearness. She filled the glass again, and returned to him quickly, lest he grow impatient. “Daniel is like a father to me, you know that. No one could ever please me like you.” “Lies!” He shouted, his eyes shifting. “You prefer that old man to me? Perhaps you have prostituted yourself to pay for the train tickets? Wyoming is notorious for its brothels. I can only imagine the number of men you have entertained. Is your next customer due anytime soon?” He took her silence as admission of guilt. With the gun grasped in his hand, he whipped it around and knocked her so hard that her neck hurt. She knew that his knuckles would leave a bruise on her temple. Instead of cowering, she faced him bravely. “No… Jonathan, please, listen to me. I promise you…” “And what of your promises?” His anger rose, the gun in one hand, and his drink spilling out over the other. “As I recall, you promised to remain with me, until death.” his lip again curled in the smirk she’d come to hate. “As I see it, there is only one way out of that promise Mary.” He placed the cold muzzle of her pistol on her forehead. “If death is your wish, dear wife,” he began, but stopped mid-sentence to throw back the remainder of his whiskey, “I can accommodate.” Elise braced herself. There was no escape; he would catch her if she tried to run. The gun was loaded, she knew that for sure. She swallowed hard, waiting for his thumb to pull back the hammer. She was ready to die. She lifted her chin, and closed her eyes, waiting for the end. “Whore.” He spit at her. His saliva hit her cheek, and ran down her face. She knew better than to wipe it away. “Who is your favorite? Does he satisfy you?” He looked her up and down. “Did Daniel take his turn first? Or is the new man in your life even better than your old butler?” “There isn’t another man, Jonathan,” she used her best acting abilities to gaze into his eyes without flinching or thinking of Cody. “It’s always been you. I’ve missed you so.” She began to perfect this game; her throaty voice gave an even more convincing tone. Jonathan’s eyes glistened. The booze now taking effect. He eyed her lasciviously,
his focus changing. Elise chalked up another small victory. “Strip,” he ordered, almost drooling. Elise choked back her instinctual protest, then forced a sensuous smile, and removed her clothing. Soon she stood naked in front of the man she most feared, with full knowledge of what was to come in the next few hours. Jonathan’s eyes raked her body. He growled. He would beat her later, for now this small reprieve was hers. He set the empty glass down on the bar, and then filled it again, never releasing the pistol. “My hands are full, wife, come and undo my belt.” She eyed his belt, then the colt secured to his leg. No sleight of hand would extract it quickly enough. Elise dutifully approached him hoping that he wouldn’t use the belt to whip her, as had happened in the past. Thinking fast, she pulled the belt through the loops, and tossed it away, feigning sensual hunger. She pasted on a smile, and began with the buttons on his vest. Jonathan downed his whiskey, and set the empty glass aside. Elise kept hoping that he would put her gun down, but wondered if she would have the courage to pick it up. He grasped her breast, squeezing it until she cried out in pain. The sound made him laugh with satisfaction. He bent over her, his mouth covering hers, the taste of whiskey and cold saliva she’d come to associate with him, made her stomach turn. Still, she kissed him back, trying desperately to focus on the act at hand. “So the little whore wants her husband back?” he whispered, the gun pressing against her bare back, forcing her body against his. “The other men don’t satisfy you like I do? Is that it, Mary?” He pinched her breast again, and then pushed her away, causing her to stumble and catch herself on the chair behind her. “I think,” he tapped the muzzle of the gun to his temple, “that you have been soiled, dear wife.” His evil smile scared her. He was thinking up a horrible plan, a punishment for her infidelity. “But as your husband, it is my duty,” he paused, “to cleanse you, to prepare you for your wifely obligations.” Cleanse? Elise felt her eyes go wide and she forced herself to look down. Be demure, be pliant. Be strong. Under lowered lashes, she saw his eyes cast about the room and then settle on her. That look had always filled her with trepidation, today it was like iron shackles gripping her stomach. What was he planning? “Boil some water, wench.” he kept the gun pointed in her direction. Elise was terrified. Torture. Could she survive boiling water? In her darkest dreams, she hadn’t considered this as her punishment. Oh dear God, he planned to boil her clean.
Chapter Seventeen Elise shivered. Nerves, mostly, though she lay naked on top of the linens covering the hotel bed. The bindings were tight. Her feet had been strapped to the foot board; her arms drawn together with Jonathan’s discarded belt. Daniel was still lying face down; Jonathan had secured his hands and feet. Elise worried about him; his uncomfortable shifting movements had ceased, and there was no sound from the floor where he lay. Steam rose from the pot of water was set over the fireplace in the corner. Elise tried to think. Each attempt to talk her way out of the punishment he planned was unsuccessful. The amount of pain she would experience did not matter to him. The threat of their future relations being affected did not sway him either. “It matters not to me, dear wife, if you are painfully reminded for the rest of your life of the infidelity you practiced.” He sat in a chair, watching her displayed, rubbing himself grotesquely, itching for the chance to relieve himself with her. He stood and stumbled through the room. His drunken state had worsened over the last half hour, and his eyes glistened. He had fashioned a funnel by breaking the bottom off of the whiskey bottle after he drained it. He paraded the gruesome contraption over to the bed on which she lay spread. A tear seared a path down her face, falling onto her hair that lay splayed out beneath her. Begging never did work with Jonathan, why would today be any different? If anything, his anger was only intensified, by her guilt, her desertion. “The water is ready,” he said, an eager, evil smile on his lips. He’d placed himself between her legs, her pistol still dangled on his fingers. Jonathan inserted the broken bottle, twisting it roughly against her dryness. “Keep your legs spread wide, Mary. You don’t want to cut your thighs.” The cold glass was a harsh contrast to what she knew was coming. “Please, Jonathan, I’ll do anything…” she tried once more, with a weak sob, her confidence, pride, all she’d accomplished, gone. “You’ve done enough wife,” he sneered, his saliva forming foam on his mouth. He dragged the handgun across the length of her body, taunting her with its deadly capabilities. Jonathan’s anger had transformed into insanity. He’d passed beyond his cruel and vicious nature into a demon. “Touch her, and you die.” The words came out of nowhere, and hung in the air like a morning fog. Jonathan stared at her for just a moment before his face fell slack. Only when he looked toward the door was she able to do the same. Cody spoke through his teeth. His clipped words conveyed his rage far more than if he’d shouted. His gun was drawn, held steady, and aimed at Jonathan. Elise’s heart soared. Jonathan’s jaw dropped, his expression turned from shock, to puzzlement, then anger. He continued to point her pistol at her, in defiance to the one aimed his way. Elise struggled to sit, but the bindings held firm. Jonathan’s makeshift funnel
tumbled to the floor, the sound punctuated the stunned silence. Cody. Thank God. “Cover her,” Cody said, his voice solid and terse. Likely to keep Cody from seeing her nakedness, Jonathan took his wet jacket off the chair and tossed it without care atop Elise, all the while meeting Cody’s gaze, hatred oozing through every pore. Elise was thankful for the cover, though it was clammy and cold with rain. She scrambled to free herself under the cover of the coat. The leather bit into her wrists, as she struggled to release them. She wanted so much to run into Cody’s arms. He had arrived just in time. How did he know where she was? How did he know she would need his help? So many questions, but still, the fact that he was here was all she needed. “Who are you?” Jonathan sneered. “Cody Campbell. Drop your weapon.” Cody’s voice remained calm, but Elise knew from the vein that ticked in his temple that he was reining in a fierce temper. “This is my wife, cowboy.” Jonathan waved the gun callously toward Elise. “What we do in privacy does not concern you. This woman deserves her punishment. Take your leave.” When Cody failed to do so, Jonathan faced Elise. She stilled, unwilling to tip her hand. “So this is your next customer? He must be your favorite,” he slurred, looking from Elise to the man. His anger escalated, but the pistol aimed his way had narrowed his choices. “Didn’t your whore tell you she was married?” He smirked. “Any man who beds another’s wife is nothing short of horse shit.” Elise recognized that Jonathan’s thoughts were dulled by alcohol. Her wrists had been rubbed raw from her struggles to free them; she could feel her blood dripping onto her stomach. She tried to use it to lubricate the leather. “And what of a man who beats and tortures women,” Cody hissed, “What kind of man is that?” Thomas entered without a word, to stand at the front door, his gun also aimed at Jonathan, who snorted his disgust. “How many men do you entertain each night, wife?” He waved them away. “The brothel is closed, gentlemen, this woman has been reclaimed by her husband,” he shouted. “Drop your weapon.” Cody ordered. Jonathan refused, instead aiming the gun at the junction between Elise’s thighs. “This is my wife, cowboy, and my business. You will take your leave, unless you want her blood on your hands.” Cody’s jaw tightened. “Even if you pull your trigger, I will get a shot off as well.” Jonathan said. His liquor-induced arrogance always frightened Elise. He would do it; she knew that for certain. Finally, she’d pulled one hand free. She lay still, her arms screaming in pain, unsure how she could completely release herself, and also to continue Jonathan’s belief she was bound. She inched her arms up, beneath the cold wet coat. From beneath, she felt something in the pocket. No, it wasn’t a gun, but perhaps it was some kind of weapon. Slowly, while Jonathan’s attention was on Cody, she reached around, and pulled the item from its place. “Drop it,” Cody repeated, stepping closer.
“You’re killing her!” Jonathan shouted, and pulled back the hammer, casting a challenging glare at Cody. Cody stopped, but his face showed no reaction to Jonathan’s words. For the first time since he entered the room, he looked at Elise. She met his eyes, wishing she could transmit her plan to him. All she had time to do was nod her head. “If the lady wants me to go, I will,” Cody said finally. “Tell him, Darling,” Jonathan said sweetly, “Tell him what you told me … how much you missed me, how you couldn’t wait to see me, that you bought tickets home.” Elise froze, her freedom mostly concealed by the wet duster tossed atop her, but had Jonathan looked, he would notice, she was sure. His eyes were glued to Cody though, and the silence grew deafening. Elise had to wait for the perfect time to put her plan into action. She would have one chance. The two men stared each other down; waiting for Elise’s word. Her eyes followed Jonathan’s arm down to his pale manicured hand, gripping the gun where it hovered above the footboard. The weapon was cocked, his finger ready on the trigger. If she missed her target, she would be dead or at least painfully wounded in a very uncomfortable place. She only had time for one mental run-through. The speed and angle had to be perfect. In one fluid movement, and with a war cry that Elise didn’t even recognize as coming from her own lungs, she pulled the hunting knife from beneath the jacket, up over her head, and springing erect, she brought the weapon down, at a slight angle to penetrate his wrist. The unexpected force brought his hand down, striking it against the footboard. The pistol dropped from his hand, landing futilely between her knees. Jonathan screamed wildly from pain, or perhaps in shock, as it happened so fast, that all three men stared wide-eyed at her, as she now sat, naked above the waist, her breasts heaving with each breath. She grabbed the pistol before Jonathan regained his wits enough to realize he still had one useful arm. “Bitch!” He spat, his arm dangled by his side. Blood spurted from his wound, spraying up and onto her legs. She couldn’t take her eyes from him; he was still dangerously close. She held the knife in one hand, and aimed the pistol at him with the other. He grabbed his wrist in pain, held it to his chest, and stumbled backward against the wall. He looked at her, his eyes filled with incredulous, stark hatred. Blood spurt with each beat of his evil heart, spattering onto the floor. Elise looked to Cody. She answered his silent question of her wellbeing with an equally silent lift of her chin. She lowered her gun then used the bloodied hunting knife to free herself from her bindings. She struggled to put her stiff and wounded arms into the wet sleeves of Jonathan’s coat. The pain was so intense, she had to remind herself to breathe. The sound of the blast shocked Elise and she spun around. Her eyes darted to Cody then Thomas and fell on Jonathan. All three men stood motionless, as though made of wax. Then she saw a wisp of smoke swirling from the muzzle of Cody’s gun. She followed the direction of his shot to see Jonathan, his gun barely out of his holster. Finally, it dropped to the floor, breaking the silence. A crimson stain appeared on his chest. He looked surprised, his mouth agape, until he fell limp to the floor. When the severed artery in his arm no longer spewed blood, she knew that his heart had stopped. Elise kept her eyes riveted on her estranged husband’s body. She inched forward and kicked the gun away. She expected Jonathan to rouse any moment to grab
the gun and fill her with lead. She hastily backed away out of his reach. She pulled the jacket closer around her and cried out in pain. Her wrists were oozing blood; the skin completely rubbed off of her wrists. “Good God,” Thomas said when he saw the dripping blood. “What did he do to you?” Cody rushed to her side, and assisted her to a chair. “No … help Daniel. Jonathan beat him … he … he’s so quiet.” The moment she sat down, she began to tremble. The firestorm pumping through her veins slowed and the events of the evening set in, along with the pain from her wrists. Thomas knelt over Daniel, freeing him from his restraints. Cody remained on his haunches, in front of her, holding her hands steady. She shook so. Even though she didn’t want to. And her lungs weren’t cooperating at all, she could barely drag one shuddering breath in before it burst out again. Pain saturated her wrists in raw bands of agony. She ground her teeth when he covered her wounds with a bandana hastily ripped in two. Behind Cody, Thomas helped Daniel to his feet. “Daniel!” Elise exclaimed. He was able to stand, but not completely upright. His face was bloodied and red from swelling. “Are you alright?” The sight of this kind gentleman with the hideous marks on his face horrified her. He held his side and sank into a chair “I’m alright. Elise. I’m sure it looks far worse than it feels.” “Can you move your fingers?” Cody asked when the sores were covered. Elise made a fist, then wiggled each finger. She smiled gratefully to him, the firmness of the bandages was soothing. When she caught his loving gaze, she fell into his arms. Cody pulled her to him, cautious of her bandages, and her precarious state of undress. “What the hell is going on in here?” Elise and the three men turned to see the sheriff, along with several onlookers in the destroyed doorway. While Cody explained the scene, Elise fussed over Daniel. The undertaker came and went, the hotel manager blubbered over the mess. Thirty minutes later, Daniel lay on the bed with a cloth placed on his left eye, and Thomas had their belongings packed and ready by the door. Cody shoved a roll of bills into his hand. “Go downstairs and register four additional rooms. They can’t stay here tonight. There’s enough there to cover a thorough cleaning for this one as well.” Elise floated into a chair by the window staring at the puddle of her husband’s blood. There didn’t seem to be much to hold her down. And it seemed like as not that she could just float away. Everything already seemed so far away. Dreamlike. When the arrangements were made, she drifted behind Cody to the new room prepared for her. The bedcovers were pulled back, and the bathtub was filling with steaming water. He turned to her, and removed the wet coat from her shoulders with care. He quickly scanned her body for any signs of trauma, frowned at the smears of blood, both her own and Jonathan’s. He kissed her. Gently, so cautiously petting the inside of her mouth with his tongue. He pulled back, and smiled at her when she lifted her eyes to his. He moved away from her, but she grasped his hand. “Where are you going?” She clutched his hand to her breast, unwilling to relinquish her tether. “I don’t want to be alone … please…” Cody smoothed her hair away from her face. “I’m not going anywhere, my love.”
Another kiss to her forehead and he lowered her in the nearest chair. “I’m just checking on the bath.” When he walked back into the dimly lit room, Elise looked up at him from where she sat, naked and covered in drying blood. Everything crystallized in that moment. She was free. No more nightmares, no more pain. No more Jonathan. No wonder she felt like she could fly. Her joy spilled down her cheeks and she sobbed, saying over and over again. “It’s over. I’m free.” Cody crossed the room in three strides, pulled her to her feet and enfolded her in his arms.
Chapter Eighteen “Come with me,” he whispered, placing a kiss on her shoulder, then another on her neck. He lifted her into the warm bath, and she sighed in pleasure. The water lapped heat over her limbs, relieving her nerve-wracked muscles, cleansing away more than just the blood. Cody positioned himself behind her, and picked up a brush. They sat in silence, while he brushed her hair. Elise closed her eyes. His hands were filled with a magic touch, their healing powers bestowed peace upon her with each pull of the bristles through her locks. When he finished, he picked up the bar of soap, and lathered her shoulders, then her arms, careful to keep her bandages dry. A purifying sigh escaped her. She opened heavy lids to see Cody’s face against hers, leaning over her shoulder, concentrating as he bathed her. The soap glided across her skin. When he lathered her breasts, Elise turned to press a lingering kiss on his cheek, and moaned. Her body thrilled to his touch; the terror of the hour before began to disappear, while the reality of this man, her love, here with her now, took its place. He pressed hot kisses onto her neck, trailing up to her earlobe. “Cody…” she whispered hoarsely, desire infusing her with more warmth than the hot water ever could. His hands moved lower, to rub the slick soap across her abdomen, then lower still. She heard a gruff groan in her ear, before he took her earlobe in his lips. He tore himself away from her, to move to the side of the bathtub. She rested her head and closed her eyes. He lathered first one leg, then the other, enjoying the fact that she couldn’t help. She raised heavy lids to watch him, drinking in his presence. Marveling that he was here. He was real. His strong arms, sleeves rolled up, wet to his elbows, the dark hair clinging to his skin, the muscles on his neck as he bent his head over the bathtub. She studied his face, each one of his chiseled features, the sweat on his brow, whether from the earlier events, or the heat of the bathwater, she couldn’t say. She reached over, and touched his cheek. Such an amazing man. His eyes met hers, and his hunger flowed around her like the water, warm, silky and purifying. She tangled her fingers into his hair, and drew him to her. The kiss was intense, the drama was gone and only their desire remained. Tongues danced across each other, raising the temperature of their bodies. Finally, he pulled her up, then wrapped a warm towel around her glistening body, now free of most reminders from her ordeal. Deftly, he picked her up to carry her back to her bed. With ultimate care, he lowered her feet to the floor. When he tried to move away, she refused to release his neck from her hold. “Cody…” “Did he hurt you?” The words spilled from him, as though they were on the tip of his tongue throughout the last hour, and her quiet inquiry was enough to bring them out. “He … hit me a few times. He was about to—“ “Shh…” he interrupted, “Don’t talk about it. Don’t even think about what he was about to do. I can’t stand it.” “Daniel…” “He’ll be fine.”
“How did you find me?” Cody smiled down into her eyes. He brushed her soft cheek with the back of his index finger. “I tore the city’s hotels apart until I found you. Didn’t I tell you that I love you?” The look in his eyes reached inside her and stroked her as surely as his tongue had. She couldn’t look away, she could only nod. “It’s not something I can turn on and off at will. I don’t see how you thought I could just let you leave without…” he looked away and was silent for a moment. “Why did you go, Elise? Why didn’t you come to me, at least … say good bye?” “I thought… I don’t know, Cody. I suppose I thought it would be easier this way. A clean break, no sad goodbyes … and I was… I was embarrassed about the V-Bar. I was trespassing on your property.” She met his gaze. He grinned naughtily. “I don’t think I’ll call the sheriff just yet.” He gathered her against him, the wet towel soaked onto his shirt. “I love you, and there isn’t anyone else I can spend my life with.” “I have tickets to Salt Lake City on tomorrow’s train,” she said with a prim tilt to her chin. “Then I should get home to pack,” he said, unperturbed. “Pack?” “If you’re going to be in Salt Lake City, there isn’t any reason for me to be here.” He lifted her off her toes and lowered his mouth to hers. She loved the unique taste of him; tobacco, coffee, and … joy. Safety. Love. After long kisses that left her heart pounding in her chest and her lips tingling, Cody pulled away from her, removing her hands from the stronghold behind his neck. He kissed her palms and curled her hands into his chest. “You need rest,” he whispered, leaning his forehead against her. “Don’t leave me!” Her voice wasn’t but a whisper, but the urgency in her words was anything but quiet. “My room is next door. I’ll check on you…” His words died on his lips when he saw the single tear roll down her cheek. He wiped it away with the pad of his thumb and his face twisted in concern. “I didn’t think you’d want company tonight.” He caught his breath when her cool fingers gripped the heated skin of his arms. “It’s you, Cody. Only you. I can’t think of anything else I need right now. Just you. Holding me.” He set her down on the edge of the bed before pulling a nightgown from her luggage. He eased her arms through the sleeves, lowered her onto the pillow, and fanned her hair over the white pillowcase. His love came through the adoration in his fingers. His touch … his purely unselfish touch confirmed each reason she loved him in return. After a chaste kiss, he gave a sigh filled with regret and stood, drawing the blanket up to her shoulders. She gazed at him, praying that he would stay with her. In this room. In this bed. He walked through the room, dousing the lamps. He removed only his boots, belt and holster before sliding beside her and enfolding her in his arms. “Are … you going to sleep like that?” she whispered. “In all likelihood, no,” was his gruff reply. “But there is no way I can lay unclothed beside you all night and not do something that we shouldn’t. I apologize for not trusting
my own self control Elise. When it comes to you, I’m weak.” She smothered a smile, his words were a match and her blood kerosene. “Now, no more talking, and for God’s sake don’t move.” He pulled her back against his chest, enveloping her in his protective arms. It wasn’t long before her smile faded enough for her to fall asleep. Much later, Elise came slowly awake. Her nose was pressed against a muscular wall; a rumpled shirtfront covered the steady heartbeat which she could feel matched her own. The smile that spread over her face was saturated with the love that filled her to the brim and radiated from each pore of her body. The room was dark, dawn had yet to approach, but Elise felt as though she’d had an entire night’s rest. He smelled wonderful. Outdoors, leather, autumn leaves … so masculine, uniquely him. Their legs were tangled together, along with clothing and blankets. Elise inched even closer to him, curling her calves through his. This is how it should be. This is what she’d been missing. She brought her hand up to touch his chest and tested the firmness of the muscles there. He was exquisitely built. Through his shirt and undershirt she found his nipple. Was it always pebbly? Even in repose? She wrinkled her brow and continued her investigation. When she gave it a light pinch, she was shocked to hear his hissing intake in her hair. “Dammit Elise, I’m trying to be chivalrous here.” Her hands stilled. “You’re awake?” “Either that, or I’m having one helluva dream,” his arms tightened, bringing her even closer. His voice dropped to a whisper, “And if that’s the case, don’t wake me up.” She giggled. “Do you know how much I love you?” “If it’s anywhere near the way I do you, your heart must be bursting with it.” “It is.” His lips were gentle. They sipped at hers, nibbling against their softness. Timidly, she brought the tip of her tongue out to stroke his. “Ahh, Elise. I swear you’re trying to kill me,” he rolled her onto her back so that he could look down into her face. “No, no. I want you to feel as alive as I do.” “You’re alright then? Everything that happened, Jonathan and…” “Jonathan’s gone. I couldn’t feel better.” Her words wiped the concern from his brow. His hands cradled her face in reverence while he planted loving kisses against each eyelid, her temple, earlobe, then the sensitive skin below. She could feel the tension in his body. “Cody…?” “Hmm?” “I was wrong.” “No you weren’t. You couldn’t feel better.” He paid her collarbone some special attention. “Yes I could,” her husky admission brought his head up. “If your skin was touching mine.” As she spoke, her fingers were releasing the buttons on his shirt. He groaned, acquiescing, then quickly removed his clothing. Elise enjoyed the erotic display, and she saw that he was filled with the same desire that coursed through her
veins. He knelt over her, covering her mouth with his, warm and delicious. His knees straddled her outstretched legs. He gathered her nightgown and drew it over her head. His hand kneaded her breast, sending shocks of pleasure through her body, then pooling between her thighs. She took him in her hand, and guided him to her moist portal. “God, Elise … you are so perfect … warm, wet…” He murmured in her ear, filling her with all of himself. Body and soul. He lowered onto her, his chest flattening her breasts. He stroked the plumped out curves with the feather soft caress of a butterfly against the petals of a rose. The naughty grin he gave her belied the tenderness in his touch. He rolled to one side, keeping his place inside her by pulling her with him. At this angle, he could touch her more freely. She lifted a leg over his hip, and pressed even closer to him, groaning when he moved inside her. Slowly, ever so slowly, he moved again. Elise matched each movement, the tempo, luxuriously increasing. She wished that this could go on forever, yet wished fervently for satisfaction. Cody’s hands were busy. He pulled that knee closer to her chest. His hand slid down the length of her thigh and palmed the curve of her derrière. Elise gasped; her eyes popped open. His grin widened. Her hands kneaded the muscles on his chest, then shoulders, pulling him closer to her, begging for release. She opened her desire-drugged lids to meet Cody’s. His were equally intoxicated. She repeated his name like an ancient chant, for that was the only word her mind could form. She grasped his shoulder, her fingernails biting into the muscles in desperation. Like an uncorked bottle of champagne, the tiny bubbles exploded as they filled her essence. She gripped his manhood within, her body milking his until he released a feral hiss, and gave in to his own ecstatic burst. They remained lying, facing each other, for hours afterward. Silently communicating, kissing, whispering, touching, loving. All too soon, the sun rose to mark the arrival of a new day. Cody drew her against him protectively and looked down at her with mock remorse. “You’re going to miss your train.” “Why would I do that?” Her fingers traced the curve of his chest “You’ll be busy.” Cody covered her mouth with his, showing her what she might be busy doing. “Never leave me again Elise. Promise me that.” He spoke into her neck, his lips moving across each feature of her face. “But,” he pulled away once more to meet her eye, “I don’t want you to stay because you have to. Stay because you want to.” Her verbal promise was muffled by his kiss. “Tell me, what is the protocol regarding newly widowed women?” “What do you mean?” “When is it proper for her to remarry? Don’t tell me I have to wait a year.” She laughed. “Since when do I ever do what is proper?” The End About the Author: Alanna Coca is a Wyoming native, who has always been intrigued by the rich history
of the wild west. In her free time she enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family.
Meet LSB Authors At The House Of Sin Lsbooks.NET We invite you to visit Liquid Silver Books LSbooks.com for other exciting erotic romances. 2007: Terran Realm Urban fantasy world: TerranRealm.com Featured Series: The Zodiac Series: 12 books, 24 stories and authors Two hot stories for each sign, 12 signs The Coven of the Wolf by Rae Morgan Benevolent lusty witches keep evil forces at bay Fallen: by Tiffany Aaron Fallen angels in hot flight to redeem their wings The Max Series by JB Skully Meet Max, her not-absent dead husband, sexy detective Witt, his mother… And many, many more!
