Dixie Moon

by Shirleen Davies

  “I lost him, too.” She looked up, trying to control her emotions, not wanting to embarrass herself in front of others in the restaurant. “Stillborn.”

  Gabe watched as her body began to tremble. “Come on. Let’s take a walk.”

  He led her down the street at a slow pace, putting an arm around her and pulling her close as she shook with quiet sobs. He wondered if she had ever let herself grieve the deaths of both her husband and unborn child. From what he remembered of her, always strong and determined, it was doubtful.

  “We’ll go to my hotel. They have a small café where we can sit, have some coffee.”

  She leaned away, nodding. “I’m sorry, Gabriel. I didn’t intend to cry all over you.”

  “Caro, never apologize for showing your feelings. I wish I had been there for you.”

  “No, no. You had your own life, and I needed to learn to live on my own.” A bitter chuckle escaped her lips. “I feel as if I’ve done quite well—until tonight.”

  Leading her to a table, Gabe signaled for two coffees. “Are your parents still in New York?”

  “They are. That’s why I had to leave. Too many memories, people always asking how I was doing, and Mother pushing me to socialize, meet someone new.” She took a deep breath. “It all became too much.”

  “You didn’t make the trip out here alone, did you?” He couldn’t hide the surprise in his tone. As independent as Caro had always been, he still couldn’t see her traveling this far from home without an escort.

  “Yes, I did.” Straightening in her chair, she glared at Gabe, daring him to criticize her decision.

  “And where are you headed? You do have a destination in mind, right?” Irritation flashed through him at the danger she’d already put herself in.

  She picked up her cup, taking a sip, then reached for the sugar. Stirring, Caro took a breath, calming the tension she felt at being questioned.

  “Caro?”

  “No.”

  Placing his arms on the table and leaning forward, he speared her with a hard stare. “No?”

  Clearing her throat, Caro moistened her lips, focusing her gaze on his. “No, I have no destination in mind, although I have heard San Francisco is interesting.”

  Unable to control himself, Gabe mumbled a curse, then signaled the waiter. “A whiskey and a sherry.” Turning his attention back to Caro, he sat back and crossed his arms. “And just how do you expect to get to San Francisco?”

  “I didn’t say San Francisco was my final destination. I said I’ve heard it’s interesting.”

  Pinching the bridge of his nose, he watched as she shifted in her chair. “Caro, are you meeting someone along the way, or are you traveling completely alone?”

  “I already told you. I’m making this journey alone.”

  “And your parents let you leave?” From what he remembered, he couldn’t believe they’d allow it.

  “I left before they could stop me.” Seeing Gabe’s brows knit together, she clasped her hands, resting them on the table. “Listen, Gabriel. I’m a widow of means. I don’t need anyone’s permission to travel, and money is no problem. I’m glad we came across each other after all these years, but if all you’re going to do is criticize my decisions, I believe we should say goodnight.” She pushed back from the table, intending to leave.

  He reached over and touched her arm. “Don’t leave, Caro. Please.”

  “All right, but only if you act like the friend you used to be and not my guardian.”

  He chuckled, even though he found no humor in her situation. “I’m sorry if that’s how I sound, but I know the dangers you face. To be blunt, I can’t believe you’ve made it this far without incident.”

  “Up until this last part of my trip, I’ve traveled by train.” Finishing her coffee, Caro set the cup down, then reached for her reticule. “I’m not certain what inspired me to come to Big Pine, except the conductor told me it’s the territorial capital. When I asked, he arranged for me to continue by stage. I thought I’d stay a few days, then decide where to go next.”

  “Where are you staying?”

  “Here, at the hotel.”

  “Good.” Offering his arm, he escorted her up the stairs. “We’ll meet for breakfast, then I’ll show you the town. That is, if you’ll allow me.”

  “Thank you, Gabriel. I would love to have you show me around.” Stopping at her room, she looked up at him. “And I’d like to hear all about what you’ve been doing since coming west.”

  ~~~~~

  Chapter Sixteen

  Stretched out on his bed, arms behind his head, Gabe stared at the ceiling, still unable to sleep hours after walking Caro to her room. He hadn’t lied. She’d grown even more beautiful over the years. Rather than the tragedies making her bitter, she faced her future straight on, taking a journey few women of her background would consider.

  What he couldn’t understand was how his feelings for her had changed. They’d both made other choices—she falling in love with a successful, prominent businessman, and he shunning his social status and wealth to travel west. Yet, here they both were, years later, single with nothing holding them back from trying to reclaim what they’d started before the war.

  Nothing except his love for Lena. Caro walking back into his life intensified, instead of diminished, his desire to marry Lena. Three hours before, he sat alone, debating the wisdom of his decision to ask her to be his wife. He no longer doubted his actions.

  Of course, he had no reason to believe Caro wanted more than friendship. Closing his eyes, he draped an arm over them, a plan forming in his mind. If Caro wanted to find a new life, discover a world far removed from the one she’d left, he knew the perfect place.

  Splendor

  “Lena, come quick.” Nick pounded on her door, knowing she’d returned to her room after breakfast to write a letter to Isabella. “Lena?”

  “What in the world, Nick? I bet everyone in the place can hear you.”

  Ignoring her, he reached around her, picking up her coat and taking her arm. “You’re not going to believe who just got off the stage.”

  She couldn’t imagine anyone causing Nick to act this excited, except…

  “They’re here.” She faltered at the stop of the stairs, her hand going to her throat.

  “Yes. They just arrived.”

  Lena turned, intending to retreat back to her room, but Nick grabbed her arm. “Where are you going?”

  “I’m not ready for this. I need more time…”

  Turning her to face him, he settled his hands on each shoulder. “You are more than ready. It’s been too long and now they’ve come to you.”

  She nodded. “How do I look?”

  “Beautiful, as always. Now, let’s not keep them waiting.”

  Lena spotted them the moment she stepped outside. Isabella spoke with Cash and Noah as the stage driver unloaded their bags. Jackson, clasping her hand in a tight grip, gazed up at the two tall men, his back to Lena.

  Taking a steadying breath, she let Nick guide her to within a few feet.

  “Isabella?”

  She turned at Lena’s voice, a broad smile lighting her face. “Lena!” Dropping Jackson’s hand, Isabella ran to her with open arms. They clung together a few moments before pulling back. That’s when Lena’s gaze turned to the young boy standing alone, ramrod straight, hesitation on his face. Lena dropped to her knees and opened her arms wide.

  “Mother!” Jackson closed the distance in seconds, clinging to Lena with every bit of strength he had. “Mother, Aunt Isabella told me you’d be here, but…” His words trailed off as a sob escaped.

  “I’m here, darling, and we’ll never be apart again.”

  Jackson’s grip tightened, as if he never intended to let go. She knew how he felt.

  “I missed you.” His sobs quieted as he nestled his head against her neck.

  “I’ve missed you, too. Oh, how I’ve missed you.” Placing kisses on his forehead and cheeks, she pulled back to look
at him. “You’ve grown so much. Isabella tells me you’re the smartest one in your class.”

  “I believe I am, Mother.” His solemn words cut through her. She’d missed so much, but no longer.

  “Come on. It’s time for you to say hello to Uncle Nick.”

  Cash and Noah stood several feet away, both stunned, their jaws open, listening to the exchange.

  “Jesus,” Cash mumbled, stopping himself before he finished. “Do you think Gabe has any idea?”

  “None.” Noah crossed his arms, unable to move his feet as the reality of what they’d heard became real.

  Big Pine

  “This is a lovely town, Gabe, and larger than I anticipated.” Caro clung to his arm as they made their way around several blocks of stores, hotels, and homes.

  “It’s still growing. The gold mines are still producing and ranchers are moving in, taking as much land as they can afford to work.”

  They’d spent breakfast talking about his job as sheriff, surprising her with the news Noah Brandt had married. He didn’t mention the pregnancy, honoring Noah’s request that he and Abby make the announcement together.

  When Caro asked if he’d met anyone, Gabe didn’t hesitate telling her about Lena and his proposal of marriage. Instead of showing any disappointment, she’d grabbed his hand, offering sincere congratulations.

  “When do you intend to ride back?”

  “I have some business to finish here, then I’ll go back. Why don’t you come with me? You have no firm plans, no one expecting you, and I know Noah would be pleased to see you. And I’ll introduce you to Lena.” Gabe had intended to use Luke Pelletier’s original cabin after leaving Big Pine. He, Dax, and Luke had business to discuss, and using the cabin would give him the extra distance from Lena they both needed. If Caro decided to accompany him to Splendor, he’d get her settled, then ride on to the Pelletier ranch.

  Eyes widening, Caro pursed her lips. “After we parted last night, I’d made the decision to travel on to San Francisco. I hadn’t considered going to Splendor.”

  “San Francisco will always be there. You may only have this one chance to pass through my town, see Noah, and meet the woman I hope to spend my life with.”

  The last got her attention. She’d like to see who’d captured Gabe’s heart. If he’d responded to her letters, shown an inclination to return to her after the war, Caro would have waited. But he hadn’t. She’d fallen in love with David and never regretted her decision for an instant. Life now dictated she start over, seeking a new place to find peace, and perhaps love. Although she’d never felt oppressed in her marriage as some women did, the new sense of freedom allowed her choices never before available. Splendor could be one of those choices.

  “All right, Gabriel. I’ll accompany you to Splendor and meet your lady before traveling west.”

  “You won’t regret it. Now, let’s find a wagon and—”

  “Oh no. I’d much prefer a horse.”

  Gabe had forgotten her skills as a horsewoman, besting most men when challenged to a race. An activity he felt quite certain never reached her parents’ ears.

  “Most women out here don’t ride sidesaddle.”

  “I’ve ridden astride before.” Her eyes filled with excitement.

  “The supplies I’m ordering will be delivered by wagon. We’ll arrange to have your trunks included. I need two days to finish my business before heading back. Will that suit?”

  “Yes.” Caro gripped his arm and squeezed. “I’m so glad you made the offer.”

  Gabe smirked. “I hope you feel that same way after being in the saddle for a full day.”

  Splendor

  Rance Stillwell sat across the desk from Amos Henderson, staring into the older man’s eyes.

  “It’s a fair offer, Henderson.” Before their meeting, he’d looked around the Wild Rose, surprised at the amount Carlyle and Pennington offered for what he considered a dump, especially compared to the Dixie. “You’ll never get as much from anyone else.” Stillwell crossed his arms and leaned back in his chair, making certain the butts of his twin Colt revolvers were in plain sight.

  Never one to be intimidated, Amos glanced at the guns. He had one other offer. Neither party knew about the other, and for now, he intended to keep it that way. There would be more to his decision than the amount of the offer.

  “I understand them wanting a decision right away, but I need more time.”

  “How much time?” Stillwell’s face didn’t change expression, other than hardening an almost imperceptible amount.

  “A week, maybe two. I’ve got a lot to think about.” Amos rested his arms on the table, clasping his hands together.

  “I’m afraid that won’t work. My bosses want a decision when I return to the mine, and I’m not waiting around two weeks.” Stillwell stood, stone cold eyes locking with Amos’. “I’ll give you three days. Let me give you some advice. Take their offer, Henderson. Life will be much easier for you and your women if you do.”

  Amos pushed from his desk and stood, his nostrils flaring at the unmistakable threat. “You’ll have my decision when I’m damn good and ready to give it to you. Now get out.”

  “I’ll leave for now. Like I said before, I’ll return in three days and expect you’ll give me the decision my bosses want.”

  The smirk on Stillwell’s face almost had Amos rounding the desk. Instead, he watched the man’s retreating back as he left the office, closing the door with a firm click. He’d been hesitant to accept either offer, taking his time. It appeared his time was up.

  “Tell me again how old you are, Jackson.” Suzanne sat at the table in the kitchen, staring at the young boy sitting across from her, drinking hot cocoa. Fanny glanced over her shoulder from her spot in front of the stove.

  “Six, but Aunt Isabella says I act more like twenty.” His serious expression made both her and Fanny smile. He had clear blue eyes and dark hair, the same as his mother. The fair complexion must come from his father, she decided, wondering about the man.

  “Tell me what you like to do?”

  “Uncle Arnott used to take me fishing and riding.” The sadness in his voice at the death of Isabella’s husband pained Suzanne. Isabella hadn’t mentioned it to Lena until arriving in Splendor. She’d made the decision within days of Arnott’s death, packing up what they needed and taking the train west. Their servants would keep the house going until she returned to her life in Philadelphia.

  “With winter coming, it’s a little cold for fishing, but I’m certain your Uncle Nick would still take you. And there are plenty of horses available for a skilled horseman such as yourself.”

  Jackson beamed at Suzanne’s praise, then returned his concentration to the half-full cup.

  “There you are.” Lena took a seat next to her son. “Aunt Isabella is a little tired from the journey. She’s taking a nap in my room. If it’s all right with you, Suzanne, I thought she and I could share my bed, and Jackson could stay with Nick until we find accommodations.” The whole town knew rooms were at a premium and every house had been taken.

  “Of course I don’t mind. It may be a while until a place opens up in town. I hear people are taking houses as fast as they’re built.”

  “Why don’t you ask Luke and Ginny Pelletier?” Fanny asked. “They have that big house with lots of room. It’s not too far from town, and Mary is close to Jackson’s age.”

  “That’s a wonderful idea. Would you like to take a ride to see some friends today, Jackson? They have a large ranch with lots of horses and cattle.”

  A grin split his face as he nodded at his mother.

  “Good. I’ll go speak with Mr. Brandt right now. Would you like to come along?” Jackson jumped out of his chair as Lena stood. “Will you let Isabella know where we’ve gone?”

  “Of course,” Suzanne answered. “And don’t worry about beds here. We’ll figure it out.”

  Willie Carlyle studied the map of their claims. The amount of ore the men hauled out exce
eded his expectations, yet it could play out at any time. There were no guarantees on the longevity of a vein. He and Thomas had groups of men panning the streams, seeking placer deposits that could turn into lucrative mines. He thought the flow of men wandering into their camp seeking work would slow, but if anything, the number increased each day.

  “How many have you turned away today?” Tommy slipped a slim cheroot from his pocket and lit it as he watched the men at work.

  “Not many. Three or four. I send them on to Splendor where there’s some building going on.”

  “Heard some news.” Tommy blew smoke into the air, watching it curl and spread as it disappeared.

  “What did you hear?” Willie pushed the papers away and stood, pacing to within a few feet of Tommy.

  “A woman and child arrived on the stage.” Tommy crushed the cheroot under his boot.

  “And?”

  “The boy ran up to your lady friend, Magdalena Campanel, and called her mother.”

  Willie’s eyes widened, his expression unreadable as he absorbed each word. He’d known about the boy from the time Lena gave birth to him. He also knew Jackson was his son, making certain Lena was aware of this knowledge. It never occurred to him to make an offer of marriage any more than he thought of providing money for the boy’s support. If Lena had been stupid enough to keep the child, he figured it became her responsibility to feed and clothe him.

  “Jackson.”

  Willie turned a bewildered look to Tommy.

  “The boy’s name is Jackson, according to one of our men who saw the pair arrive. They’re staying at the boardinghouse.”

  Willie had thought about Lena a lot since learning she and Nick owned the Dixie. From the first time he saw her in New Orleans, he knew he had to have her. The timing had coincided with easy access to their safe and her jewelry, but he’d taken her anyway, knowing he’d be gone by the time she awoke the following morning. He’d corresponded with her over the years, just to make certain she knew he had easy access to her and the boy whenever he wanted. Twice, he’d watched from a distance as she read one of his letters, her body shaking as fear flashed across her face. His elation at her distress fueled his desire to continue the subtle torture. The letters to her continued until he’d become otherwise occupied in San Francisco, losing track of both Lena and Nick.