He settled with Abel and checked on Buck. His wounds were healing, and the horse even nickered at him. Reid decided it would be better to keep the horse and not a wife. He came out of the livery and offered Evalyn his arm.
She turned and kept her arm to herself. “Thank you for escorting me.”
“My pleasure.” Yeah, the correct thing to say but not what he felt. He was past running away now, but he wasn’t going to submit himself to misery by marrying a woman that didn’t like him.
“Right.” She glanced at him. “You might let your face look pleasant when you say that.”
“Like you’ve smiled at me today. If you don’t like me, that’s fine. I’ll still escort you. It’s my duty as a good citizen of Shirleyville.”
“I didn’t say I didn’t like you. I do like you. It’s just that, well, I don’t think you want to marry me. And I’m saying you don’t have to. I have other options.” Her head went up, and she looked straight ahead. Then she looked at him. “I don’t see a gun.”
He stared at her. She was right. He’d left his rifle at the livery. “I better go back and get it.”
She pointed. “The boardinghouse is just up the street. Take me there, and then you can go back and get your rifle.” He could see her roll her eyes.
“All right.” Evalyn had him rattled more than the threat of wolves. “I’ll be back, so don’t leave before I get here. The boardinghouse is by the meadow where the wolves came from.”
She shivered and walked closer to him. “I’ll wait for you.”
He watched her go inside the boardinghouse and secretly wished they didn’t have any rooms for her. After she was inside, he turned and ran back to the livery.
Reid stormed into the stable muttering about Evalyn. The rifle was still in his saddle. He turned to see the liveryman watching him.
Abel grinned. “Women, they can mess with a man’s mind.” He handed the rifle to Reid.
“That they can. Good thing I don’t have any plans to marry soon.”
Abel nodded. “Yeah, I can see.”
Reid looked at him. “What does that mean?”
“Oh, nothing. It’s just you got Evalyn written all over your face. You’ve lost yourself for that woman, boy. Sooner you realize it, the sooner you’ll get on with your life and marry her.”
Reid shook his head. “I’m not the marrying kind.”
“Um, hum. Well, like I said, when you finally figure it out, be sure and marry her before someone else does. I’ve seen the preacher walking with her. And he’s a sight more stable than you.”
Reid looked at him. “I guess that would be the opinion of a liveryman. I better get back before she accuses me of leaving her at the boardinghouse.” Reid left the livery and tried to ignore Abel’s deep laugh.
Why this town wanted him to be married off was beyond him. Wasn’t it enough that he’d put away his outlaw ways and was walking the narrow path? He didn’t need a wife to help him. He didn’t.
He waited on the porch for Evalyn to come out. And then he waited some more. Finally, he tired of it and knocked on the door.
A woman opened the wooden door leaving the screen between them. “Yes?”
“Is Evalyn Ladd in?”
“Yes, Cindy is showing her a room on the second floor. I’ll let her know you’re waiting on the porch.” She didn’t wait for him to say anything and shut the door on him.
He sat back down and rubbed his arms. The sun had dipped beneath the hills, and it was getting colder. A long low howl from the meadow made Reid glad he’d gone back for his rifle. He checked the cartridges and was glad he had more in his pocket.
Levi better get that hunter here in a hurry. The town was on edge. Ranchers had lost cattle and horses. Cindy had complained that her chickens had been slaughtered by the animals. And people were clearing out of town long before dark.
Reid kept his rifle ready and hoped Evalyn would hurry. He was hungry and cold, and the howls were growing longer and more intense. The hotel wasn’t far. But he didn’t like the idea of being on the street with the wolves prowling about.
Finally, she opened the door. “Thank you, Cindy. I’ll bring my things tomorrow. After church.”
“I look forward to you joining us.” Cindy smiled then looked at him, and the smile faded into a frown.
Reid stood. Women. They were all against him.
Evalyn walked to him. “I’m ready. I do suppose you have bullets in the gun?”
“Of course. Let’s go.” Reid took her elbow and walked down the stairs with her. He didn’t want her to worry, but he had the feeling they were being watched. It was dark now. The moon was covered by clouds.
The faint yellow from the hotel was the only light on the street. Sterling had talked about putting up streetlamps, but he’d said the town didn’t have the funds yet. Reid decided he’d vote to help pay for them.
They were halfway to the hotel when the howls started up again.
Evalyn gasped and eased next to him. “They’re back.”
“Yeah, they’ve been howling for some time.”
“What are you going to do?” She took his arm.
Pulling his arm free, he held the rifle up and toward the meadow. “Remind them who I am.” Reid fired three shots. He grabbed her elbow and ushered her toward the hotel. “Faster.”
She picked up her pace.
They scooted down the alley and then to the front of the hotel and inside.
Evalyn leaned against him as they sat on the divan. “They terrify me.”
He held her, aware of her trembling. “We’re safe. Soon they’ll be gone.”
“You think one man can get rid of them?”
Reid shrugged. “I don’t know. But he’ll know what he’s doing.”
“I don’t ever want to see another wolf again. I used to enjoy listening to the howls, but no longer.” Evalyn snuggled against him.
Reid put his arms around her and held her until she stopped trembling. He had to admit, having her in his arms awakened feelings in his heart. Was it love? He wasn’t sure, but he didn’t want to let her go.
“Evalyn, Reid. Have you had dinner yet?”
Reid looked up and saw Brett’s smiling face.
Evalyn pulled away from Reid. “No, not yet. Would you join us?”
Reid looked at her, but she was looking at Brett, and they were both smiling. She didn’t have any of the disapproving looks that she gave him. Evalyn approved of the preacher that was clear for Reid to see.
Chapter 15
Evalyn didn’t know why she was so antagonistic toward Reid but seeing the preacher’s friendly face was a welcome sight. Besides, that would give her someone to talk to and not have to argue with.
She had thought she could love Reid, but he didn’t seem interested in marrying any time soon. After all, Evalyn had come west as his mail-order bride. She smiled at Brett while ignoring Reid. It still hurt to know that Reid had abandoned her the moment he saw her with Bridgette.
Evalyn took Brett’s hand and stood. “I am hungry. Table for three then?”
Reid frowned. “Why not. By the window?”
Evalyn shivered. “By the fire. I’m chilled tonight. Maybe it was from the wolves.”
Brett frowned. “I heard gunshots.”
Reid nodded. “I fired at them when we were coming to the hotel from the boardinghouse.”
Brett smiled. “Boardinghouse?”
“Yes, I can’t afford to stay at the hotel, so after church tomorrow, I’m moving into Cindy’s.”
“I see.” Brett sent a questioning look to Reid then back to Evalyn. “Want some help moving?”
She smiled. “That would be nice. I don’t have very much but would enjoy the company.” Evalyn defiantly gazed at Reid. She didn’t need his help. Or his proposal.
Reid looked away and read the menu, knowing he would order the chicken pot pie as it was the cheapest item on the list. But he couldn’t take her smug look toward him and then her sweet smile at Br
ett.
Brett ordered the chicken pot pie and a coffee. “I have to prepare my sermon tonight. It will be a late night.”
Reid gave his order. “I’ll walk you to the church. The wolves are all around the meadow and hill. Last night, we had to rescue a straggler from the saloon.”
Brett nodded. “I’d appreciate that. I saw you had your rifle with you. I’ve heard them howling, and I’ve seen a few near the church. I hope they’ll have guards before church tomorrow.”
Reid put his menu down. “I’ll be there. I’m sure Levi and Ronan will too. Levi hired a professional hunter. Hopefully, we won’t have the problem for long.”
Brett nodded and then looked at Evalyn. “How is the job going?”
“Wonderful. I love the Hollanders. They are such kind people.” She darted a gaze to Reid and frowned. “Most of the people in Shirleyville have been helpful to me.”
“It’s a good town.” Brett unfolded his napkin. “Judge Taggart gave me a chance. I’ll never forget that. I think we owe others a chance, don’t you?” He looked straight at her.
Evalyn was unnerved by the preacher’s stare. She nodded, wondering why he pointedly had asked her.
Reid was looking at the fire. “I’m thankful for Bridgette and her Bounty Brigade. I don’t think I’d be alive right now if I hadn’t turned myself in for her deal.”
Looking at Reid, Evalyn’s feelings for him softened. She’d never really asked about his life before prison. She took a bite of her stew and watched him. His eyes were down, and he looked thoughtful. Not mocking her or Brett.
Evalyn’s gaze remained on Reid. She wanted him to succeed. So much that she blurted out. “I hope your business is very successful. I know you can make it work.”
Reid looked at her. Surprise on his face. “Thank you. That means a lot to me.”
She drew in a deep breath. She knew he was the one she could live the rest of her life with. Why didn’t he know it?
Brett put his fork in the pot pie. “They know how to make a good meal, don’t they?”
Evalyn nodded. “Yes. I’ve enjoyed every meal I’ve had here, but I have also heard that Cindy is a marvelous cook.”
Brett nodded. “Yes, she is. Often, she’ll bring me a plate of food or invite me over for dinner.” He smiled. “I guess she doesn’t think I can cook for myself.”
Reid laughed. “Well, if you’re anything like me, meals will consist of beans and jerky.”
“You’re right. Those are my main courses.” Brett grinned. “That’s why we need a good woman at our side.”
Reid stared at him. But nodded. “Maybe.”
Evalyn suddenly felt on the outside. Instead of pushing Reid out, the two men had seemingly ganged up, and she was left out. Well, they could have their jokes and exclude her. She was moving to Cindy’s, where women outnumbered the men.
She finished her meal and sipped her tea.
Reid and Brett bantered back and forth about their early outlaw days and how they were relieved to have a second chance. Again, Evalyn was left out of the conversation. So, her plan had not worked out. She wasn’t even sure what it had been other than to make Reid feel out of place.
Finished, she put her napkin on the plate. “I am tired. You gentlemen can continue your talk about old times, but I have a busy day tomorrow. I can walk myself to my room.” She smiled sweetly at Brett and nodded to Reid.
***
Reid watched her leave the dining room. He missed her. Even with the way she dismissed him and looked at him as if he were one of the wolves, he liked her company. He was still watching her as she started up the stairs.
“You like her, don’t you?”
“Yeah, I like her.” Reid had answered without thinking. He stared at Brett. “You like her, too, don’t you?”
Brett smiled. “Yes, she’s a lovely woman. I’m not sure she’s the one for me. What about you?”
“I’m not ready to get married. I have a business to start.” Reid stopped. He’d wanted to say he didn’t want to give up his freedom and sure didn’t want a woman telling him what he could or could not do.
Brett sat back in his chair. “I’ve lived alone for a long time. Sometimes I worry about being able to let a woman into my life. Evalyn is a sweet, kind woman. I’d hate to put her in a situation that might overwhelm her.”
“What are you trying to say?”
“Maybe, I’m trying to ask your permission to ask her to marry me?” Brett stood. “Think about it. I’ve got a sermon to pray about. Unless I hear different from you, I plan to ask her Monday.” Brett started to walk away but stopped. “You still want to escort me to the church?”
Reid stared at him, not sure if the preacher was friend or foe. “Sure. Let’s go.” He stopped in the foyer and got his coat and rifle. After checking his ammunition, Reid nodded. “I hope the wolves are sleeping tonight.”
“Me too.”
They stepped outside and heard a chorus of howls.
Reid grabbed Brett’s arm. “You sure you want to go back to the church tonight? I have an extra cot and blanket in my room.”
Brett hesitated. “My notes and Bible are in my home.”
Reid pulled out his mother’s prayer book. “I’ve got this. I don’t think the Lord would mind if you stayed here and not risked becoming dinner for that pack.”
“Maybe you’re right. You sure you don’t mind?”
“Not at all. I’ve had my share of fighting that pack, and I wouldn’t mind a night off.” He looked back at the hotel.
“Good idea. I can sit in the dining room and work on the sermon.”
“I’m a good sleeper. The light won’t bother me. Besides, they’ll be closing down the dining room before long.”
“You convinced me.” Brett grinned at him. “So, you had a praying mother, too.”
“Yes, I take it that means you did too. Maybe it was their prayers that saved us.”
Brett smiled. “I think so. In fact, that might just be what I preach on tomorrow. The power of prayer and the value of praying mothers and fathers, grandmothers and grandfathers. I think there’s a lot more power in the prayers of loved ones than we understand.”
“I believe you’re probably right, Preacher.” Reid held the door for him, and then they walked up the stairs.
Reid was glad he didn’t have to fight the wolves tonight. And having Brett as a friend made him feel good.
Of course, then there was Evalyn. If Reid didn’t go after her, Brett was going to take her. Then again, maybe that was for the best.
Chapter 16
Evalyn had a fitful sleep bothered by howling wolves and the decision between Brett and Reid. Although there wasn’t much of a choice because only Brett had seemed interested. Reid didn’t want to get married now. And she wasn’t going to wait forever.
She’d come out here to get married. So, she’d marry whoever asked her first. That was that. Brett was a wonderful man. Kind and wise. And brutally honest about the hardships she’d face as a preacher’s wife.
Then again, there were no guarantees that Reid could make a go out of his hat and belt business. Evalyn hoped he did, but it could be a hard struggle that ended in poverty like her family farm.
Nothing was for sure. Not being the wife of a preacher. Marrying a man starting a new business. Or coming to Shirleyville as a mail-order bride. But she had a job and would make enough to provide her a room and meals at Cindy’s.
Evalyn had no real need to marry right away. She didn’t need to think she was under pressure to say yes to anyone.
Greg Adler came to her mind. He would be the one to provide security, but she liked him the least of all. And she hadn’t heard encouraging things about him from others.
Today, was her chance to see what being married to Brett would be like. She did like him, and he seemed eager to marry.
She glanced at the clock and realized she’d slept late. Evalyn dressed and then went downstairs for breakfast. She’d already decided she wanted to
eat alone this morning. She needed to gather her thoughts.
Evalyn didn’t see Reid or Brett and thankfully didn’t see Greg. She picked the table by the window and looked out and saw Reid, with his rifle, and Brett walking to the church. She wondered why they hadn’t gone to the church last night.
Well, good, she could get breakfast without trying to wonder what to say. She ate her eggs and bacon and watched as Reid came back from the church. He was smiling to himself.
Evalyn finished her breakfast and braced herself for Reid to join her. But as she watched him, he went back up the stairs ignoring her.
“Good.” She spoke to herself, reminding her of the old days when she was all alone. The very reason she’d come to Shirleyville as a mail-order bride. She’d gone to a strange place because she was assured of being married and ending her loneliness.
She went back to her room and sat by the window and looked at the mountain. Evalyn suddenly felt empty. Lost. She needed to go to church. A look at the clock told her it was time to go.
She grabbed her coat and gloves and walked down the stairs. She looked about the foyer but didn’t see Reid. Other people were walking up the hill to the church. So, she felt safe to go alone.
Outside, she buttoned the coat tightly about her and set off to the church. It had been a long time since she’d sought God’s help. Evalyn wasn’t sure why. Perhaps she felt like a lost cause without hope.
Today was different, though. She needed His help and believed she would receive it today in church. She hurried her steps because she didn’t want to be left alone on the path to church. She wasn’t sure if wolves came out during the day, but she didn’t want to take a chance.
Thinking of the shaggy beasts, she shivered as fear panicked her, and she walked faster, praying that no wolves would come. Her heart raced. The wind picked up, blowing hard from the north meadow.
Tears wetted her cheeks. She didn’t want to be alone. Not ever again. Evalyn decided while walking on the path to church that she’d pray to know who to marry. That the Lord would make it plain to her so she would know.
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