Chase The Wind

by Janelle Taylor

  She took a deep breath. “As days passed and I worked like a slave, the place reminded me too much of Stephen and I realized I couldn’t make a go of it alone. And I couldn’t just go into town and find a new husband to rescue me. Two drifters came by on separate days and offered to help me in exchange for food and shelter until I could afford wages, but I couldn’t let a stranger live there; it wouldn’t look proper and I’d be afraid. You know I’m not stupid or lazy or a coward, Navarro, but neither am I foolish. I faced the truth that I couldn’t stay, that our dream was over, and the sooner I acted, the better for me and the property’s appearance for a good sale. I sold out to a nice couple with two children, got on a train, and went to Boston. I worked in a ladies’ hat shop for a few months, but I didn’t like it there. I couldn’t seem to make friends or adjust because I didn’t fit in with the locals. Then, the shop owner started making…crude overtures. I’d read and heard exciting things about Tucson, so I decided to make another fresh start. With so much progress going on, I figured there must be plenty of jobs available. I packed up, caught another train, and moved here.”

  Navarro stayed silent when she ceased talking as utensils, napkins, and drinks were put in place. He used the break to study her, and made it obvious he was doing so to test her self-control and to dupe their observers. Her jawline was almost square and her cheekbones were high. Her lashes and brows were thick and dark. Her nose wasn’t small or pert but it was sized to perfection to match her other features. Her mouth was an attention grabber with full lips, and a sunny smile that could lighten the darkest room. Her fair skin with its natural rosy shading on her cheeks was soft and clear; neither age nor weather exposure had wrinkled or damaged it.

  He recalled that during their stroll, her movements had been as light and graceful as a feather floating to the ground. There was nothing awkward about her demeanor. Whether standing, sitting, or walking her posture was excellent. The dress she wore didn’t conceal a small waist, rounded hips, and a chest that gave no doubt she was all woman. Except for when she was vexed with him, she had a warming glow and sparkling vitality. The sound of her laughter was as pleasing to the ear as a running stream. He was certain most people found it difficult not to like and respect her. Oddly, the fact she was so attractive, independent, and refined annoyed him; perhaps, he concluded, it was because those characteristics imitated Jessie’s fine qualities.

  The only clue Navarro had as to how his bold inspection affected Beth was the way she trapped her wedding band between those same fingers used earlier and rocked it back and forth in place. He decided he wouldn’t point out that habit, as he might need it in the days ahead for reading her real mood. As soon as the server left, he coaxed, “Go on.”

  Beth knew people nearby could hear the well-rehearsed conversation. “I found a nice house to rent, made friends, learned my way around, and convinced the land office I’d be worth my salary to them. I’ve been here four months. As I told you in Mrs. Carter’s store, I tried to reach you about Stephen’s death and my two moves. The letters came back, so I left word in St. Louis and Boston where you could find me when you returned. You and Stephen were like brothers; I knew how you’d feel when you heard the bad news.”

  Impressive control and acting, Mrs. Lawrence. “At least his killer was captured and punished. If not, I’d go after him tomorrow. I promised Stephen I’d take care of you if anything ever happened to him but I never thought that black day would ever come. If I’d gone on to Dakota or you’d gotten my letter while I was in California, you could have reached me.”

  In an attempt to see if she could disquiet him also, she put a hand atop his larger one and gazed into his eyes as she entreated, “Don’t blame yourself, Navarro. I’ve been fine.”

  He moved his hand to cover hers and gave a light squeeze as he refuted, “But you shouldn’t have been forced to go through something like that alone. I’m sorry you were. Stephen would be hurt and disappointed I wasn’t there to give you comfort and protection. That’s what best friends are for, and it won’t happen a second time, I promise.”

  “You’re here now; we’ve found each other again. I’ve missed you, Navarro. At times I felt so alone. I tried to be brave and strong, but it’s been so hard.”

  He shifted his grasp to hold her hand. “You won’t be alone or in danger again, Beth, because I’m back in your life. I’ll take care of you.”

  With their gazes locked and hands clasped on the table, she replied, “You always were a good friend and a fine man, Navarro. That’s why Stephen and I loved you so much. At least I’m safe and happy here in Tucson; you don’t have to worry about me. How long before you have to leave for your ranch in San Antonio?”

  “A week. Two at most,” he added. “I don’t want the ranch I’m considering to sit deserted too long or somebody might tear it apart. I—”

  Their meals arrived and cut off his last sentence. He leaned forward and inhaled the steaming scents. “Smells good. Thank you, ma’am.”

  The server nodded appreciation and said she’d return later to see if they needed anything else.

  Navarro took a few bites—as did Beth—then sent her a smile. “You were right about this place; it’s the best chow I’ve had in months. Let’s eat before it gets cold and finish our talk later.”

  Beth was relieved to halt a cozy deception and to break disturbing contact. She needed to clear her head and to master unfamiliar sensations, no doubt because Navarro Breed was too disarming and appealing, especially for a stranger! He made it a struggle to concentrate on business.

  Navarro continued a subtle assessment of Beth during their meal. He admitted that Dan’s description of her breeding and character was accurate: she was a real lady. He worried about her being able to perform the perilous task looming ahead. He wished he had asked his superior what kind of cases she had worked on and what specific skills qualified her for the impending one. When privacy allowed, he’d question her on those topics. He noticed how well liked she was in town; so many people spoke to her before and during their supper. It was clear to him that some of the men were enchanted by her and were sending him annoyed looks for catching her attention and for spending the evening with the object of their desires.

  “What are you thinking about so long and hard, Navarro?” she asked after desserts were placed before them and their coffee cups were refilled.

  He feigned a sad look and lowered his fork to lie. “About the good times Stephen and I shared, we all shared. I can’t imagine never seeing and talking to him again. I keep thinking he’ll walk through that door and join us. I’m going to miss him. I know it must be worse for you.”

  Heavens, you think quickly. “It was hard for a long time, but it gets better every day. Sometimes I’m glad we didn’t have children who would constantly remind me of him. Other times I wish we had, because a part of him would still be alive and with me.” Darn you, Beth! Why did you say something so personal and true? You had your wits clear until he gazed at you like that. This weakness has to stop, pronto!

  “If you’d had children, Beth, it would’ve been harder on you after he was gone. You’d be breaking your back on that farm to give them a home and to earn a living. Men would be trying to take advantage of a beautiful widow who owned a good piece of land. You were able to pull up roots and move on to a fresh start away from painful memories. Besides, children need a father most when they’re young. While you were struggling and suffering, you could have chosen the wrong man to take his place.”

  Beth caught a subtle change in his expression and voice during his last two sentences. A clue to a troubled childhood? Or had he been married in the past? Dan hadn’t mentioned either topic to her. To provoke clues, she agreed. “You’re right, Navarro, a child needs and deserves to be loved, guided, and protected by his real father.”

  Navarro’s gaze darkened and stared into hers; he hoped Dan hadn’t exposed his secrets. There was no need for Beth to know Lane was his son. That had nothing to do with solvi
ng their case. He’d told only two friends that fact and he would never reveal it to another soul. Those slips had happened by accident, but, in both instances, he was glad now to have those two to talk with during hard times. Mercy, how he wanted to be rearing his only child. If Mathew Cordell wasn’t a good man and father and didn’t love the boy as his own, he would take Lane away from him. He would—

  “If you’re finished, sir, Beth, I’ll take your payment.”

  “Beth?” he hinted, and she nodded. “Thank you, ma’am. It was a fine meal.” He handed her the right amount of money and added ten cents for good service. Afterward, he assisted his companion with her chair, took her arm, and led her outside. “Which way to escort you home?”

  The meeting and pretense with Navarro had been very draining, so Beth was eager for privacy to relax. “Left, about a half a mile. I can go alone if you’re tired. I do it every evening after work. It’s still light; I’ll be safe.”

  Navarro moved aside for two customers to enter the restaurant as he responded for their ears, “You’re in my care now, so I’ll see you to your door. Now that I’ve found you again, Elizabeth Lawrence, I don’t want anything bad happening to you. No arguments.”

  “Yes, sir,” she quipped with merry laughter as they passed the sheriff who was speaking with a friend; both men nodded a greeting to her. “You always were bossy. I suppose I can put up with that mischievous trait again.”

  He raised one eyebrow and teased, “I’m bossy? You were always the one ordering me and Stephen around. Remember that time during my last visit when we wanted to go gambling? You said you’d take a brush broom to us if we did, and you were serious.”

  Beth knew the lawman was strolling behind them on routine rounds and that was the reason for her partner’s behavior. “That place was a den of wickedness and danger. Everybody knew they had fights and at least one shooting a night. I didn’t want you two getting hurt, or worse.”

  “Well, your threats worked because we stayed home.”

  “And played cards half the night. Stephen lost two dollars to you.”

  “But I didn’t take my winnings because I knew he needed the money for the move you two were planning.”

  A cool breeze wafted over them, and she grasped her shawl over one arm to ward off the evening chill. He took it from her and placed the covering around her shoulders, then kept his hand on her waist.

  “Thanks. You always were kind and thoughtful.”

  He chuckled and teased, “First, I’m bossy, now, I’m a good man. You’re contradictory, Beth Lawrence.”

  “Naturally. We women can’t let you men get the upper hand by learning our mysteries. You and Stephen certainly had plenty of secrets. Both of you were always tricking me so you could get your way.”

  He placed a hand over his heart. “You accuse me falsely, woman,” he joked, and they laughed. “What time for supper tomorrow night?”

  “Meet me in front of the land office at five.”

  “I’ll be there.”

  Beth scolded herself for being too cognizant of his hand on her waist, the way their bodies brushed together, and his stirring voice. It was almost alarming the way his touch awakened desires she never thought to experience again. It troubled her that she could feel this way with a domineering stranger. She had to learn in a hurry how to deal with him. Before they were alone…Whether by his intention or an accidental result of the pretense, his unexpected effect on her was rattling, and possibly dangerous to the mission.

  “He’s gone, Beth. He turned the corner back there.”

  “I know. His spurs sent out signals coming and going, and his holster needs conditioning; it squeaks too much. Also, he breathes too hard and deep, and he sniffles. And he can use a bath and clean clothes when he’s downwind. He’d never be able to sneak up on anyone.”

  Navarro was amazed she’d noticed such clues and was so alert while appearing at ease, or preoccupied. Maybe there was more to her than he realized. She’d done well in town, but it was different and harder on the trail. Yet, he should give her a fair chance. Everybody deserved one. He would be in prison—or maybe dead—if he’d been denied his at the Lane Ranch.

  Beth hoped he was giving his low opinion of her a second thought. “We’re almost there. Tell me, have you been to Tucson before in the daylight? Do people here know you?” For certain, any female who’d laid eyes on Navarro wouldn’t forget him!

  “Yep. A few times before I went to work for Dan so I might be recognized. If I am, it won’t seem strange because our tale says I went to California and I’m heading for San Antonio. Tucson lies in that path. When I meet with Dan, nobody sees me. His cover has to be guarded, too. Why do you ask?”

  “I want to be certain I know all the important facts so I won’t make slips while we’re carrying out our ruse here.”

  “What are our plans for this lightning-fast romance?”

  As they stepped onto her porch, Beth related a schedule with haste as curious neighbors were watching them. “Does that suit you?”

  “Yep. I’ll go before those eyes burn holes in my back. We’ll play it safe and get down to business Saturday. See you tomorrow evening. ‘Night.”

  “Navarro?”

  “Yep?” he answered as he halted his retreat and turned to face her. She was putting her ring on and off rapidly. “Go on.”

  Beth stopped playing with the wedding band. “Can we have a truce while we’re working together? It will be easier and safer than conflicts.”

  “I didn’t realize we were at war.”

  “It seemed that way earlier. I’m sorry if you’re displeased with me as a partner or you don’t think I can fend for myself or back you up. I promise I won’t let you down and, if need be, I’d die for you during our mission.”

  Navarro was stunned because she looked as if she meant those words. “I’m not worth dying for, Beth. Nobody is unless it can’t be helped. I admit I have doubts about your skills, but I’d feel the same about any female agent, and about some male agents I’ve worked with.”

  “What are your main worries?”

  “First, you not accepting I’m in charge of this assignment. If Dan didn’t tell you that fact, I’m sorry. Maybe you were an equal or even the leader with your husband, and I know you’ve been working alone and making plans and decisions for a year, but not this time. You’ll have to follow my orders because I know this case better than you do and I know most of the people involved, whites and Indians. The other concern is your being recognized from a past case. From what I’ve seen in one day, people—particularly men—wouldn’t forget you. That could create complications and consequences I can’t afford, not on this assignment.”

  She stored his compliment and the emphasis on his last few words because both, she sensed, had special meaning. She knew from Dan that the Cordells were close friends of his, so perhaps Navarro was troubled about them being entangled in or endangered by the mission. “First, I accept you’re the boss, but don’t treat me as a child or a nuisance or a simpleton. I’m well trained, with seven years of experience and successes to my credit. In the second place, I used disguises, false accents, and other mannerisms in the past. Even if we ran into somebody who thought I favored one of my old identities, they’d soon convince themselves they were wrong. I’ll tell you about those tricks later. As for being recognized from Tucson, I’ll be using the same identity during our mission. Satisfied?”

  “For now. But you don’t mind proving yourself to me along the way?”

  “No, and you’ll have to do the same. That’s only fair, since our lives will be in each other’s hands. Good night, Navarro. I hope we can become real friends and make a good team.”

  “So do I. ‘Night. Oh, I had a good time even if we were on duty.” He sensed her startled gaze on him until he was out of sight.

  Beth leaned against a porch post and stared toward the town into which he had vanished. What an unpredictable and mercurial man you are! Were you being nice and honest or ju
st duping me, too?

  It was undeniable that Navarro Breed exuded self-reliance and confidence. He embodied prowess and excitement. She could learn plenty from him if she kept her wits and control, if she developed a genial rapport. He was a fascinating rogue of sorts, a magnificent male specimen. He reminded her of a powerful, mysterious, and elusive stallion that roamed the wilderness, needing only himself, his freedom, and a leader’s task in life. He was a stubborn, independent creature who couldn’t be lassoed and tamed unless he was agreeable, or for the love of a special mistress.

  Beth had no way of knowing her first impression of him almost matched Jessica Lane’s ten years ago. What she did know was that she was looking forward to spending many days and nights with a man for the first time since Steven’s death. She mustn’t, Beth warned herself, get too close to him and get hurt.

  Beth went inside and locked the door, all too aware it was only twenty-one hours until their second meeting. As she prepared for bed, she scolded, “For heaven’s sake, Beth, you’ve only known him for a few hours. You’ve never let a man do this to you before, so don’t start now. You’re just impatient to get on to an important and stimulating assignment. You’re judging him on all Dan told you about the great legend. You’re intrigued, that’s all. Flattered to be chosen to work with him. Wait and form your own opinion. See if he’s as top notch as Dan thinks he is. Who knows, he might be a big disappointment.”

  Yes, she reasoned, she was just eager to get back to work, as the assignment here had been too simple. She told herself it might be fun to be part of a team as she had been for six years with her husband. Oh, Steven, it’s been so lonely withoutyou. We worked so well together and had so much in common. How could anyone ever replace you? Certainly not a cocky loner like Navarro Breed who doesn’t like me, or trust me, or respect me. Well, my handsome legend, you’re in for a surprise because I won’t fail in our mission. And I’ll make certain you come out of it alive and unharmed. I won’t make the mistake of leavingyour side for a minute as I did with Steven and Papa. Like it or not, Navarro Breed, I’m sticking to you like a feather to tar.