Ruby (Angel Creek Christmas Brides Book 3)

by Hildie McQueen

  “You should and immediately. What is the soldier’s name? I will ensure Captain Beauregard is fully informed of what has happened and the soldier is kept occupied until you leave. He won’t be told anything of course, so to not make matters worse for you. However, once you and your husband are gone, measures will have to be taken to evaluate if he is unwell. It won’t do to have someone without a full grasp of reality in the military.”

  Ruby nodded, knowing she had to speak to Trevor at once.

  Just then Hank walked in through the front door and she ducked to a side room to clean her face.

  Once she was as presentable as possible, given the circumstances, she went back to the table where she’d been working. Hank was at the other table speaking to Corporal Smith. Upon seeing her, he walked closer.

  “There’s news,” he said with a wide grin. “The sickest soldier is recovering.”

  “That is good news,” Ruby replied. “Is my husband at the infirmary? I must speak to him.”

  There was a long pause as if Hank struggled with something to say. Finally he settled for a nod.

  “Is something wrong?” Ruby asked, concerned with the young man’s now somber expression.

  Hank shook his head. “No ma’am. It’s probably best that Doc be the one to share the other news.”

  “Other news?” Her heart thudded and for some odd reason Ruby was suddenly cold. “What’s wrong? Hank tell me immediately.” She rounded the table and went toward the back door to fetch her coat.

  “Noth-Nothing b-bad Mrs. Collins. It’s all good news,” Hank stammered. “Didn’t mean to upset you.”

  She wasn’t convinced. Once fully bundled up, she raced out the front door toward the infirmary. Of course the first person she spotted was Charles’ cousin making his way from the pens. He lifted his head and sneered in her direction. Ruby wasn’t in the mood for his idiotic schemes and continued forward ignoring him.

  The infirmary was warmer. The warmest it had been since she’d insisted that the windows remain open. There were more empty beds now, which was a testament to her husband’s abilities.

  Ruby saw he stood at the foot of Pearson’s bed and they were deep in conversation. Not wanting to intrude, she lingered by a soldier who’d been very sick. He seemed to have recovered some of his coloring. He was probably the one Hank had referred to.

  “I hear you’re feeling much better,” Ruby said going to the side of the thin man’s bed. “It took you longer than expected, but I’m sure you’ll make a full recovery.”

  She poured a glass of water for the soldier and helped him to drink it. Ducking her head, she hid a smile. The soldier wasn’t very thirsty, his request for water had no doubt been a ploy for her to come closer and touch him. Men. No matter how ill, some men were incorrigible.

  “Ruby, we must speak.” Trevor stood at the foot of the ill man’s bed, his gaze locked to her face. “Right now.”

  His stern manner made Ruby hesitate. He’d never spoken to her like this and especially not in front of others. She stole a glance toward where Pearson was, but the man was preoccupied with a soldier who was changing his bandages.

  Not wanting to speak in front of the sick soldier, she closed the distance to Trevor. “Whatever is the matter?” Looking at him closely, his eyes were reddened and nose a bit pink. Ruby’s eyes widened. “Have you become ill?”

  “Come with me.” He took her elbow and led her out.

  “Shouldn’t you put your coat on? It’s becoming quite colder out.” Ruby babbled as she was prone to do when nervous. “Trevor?” She glanced up at him unsure if whether to become upset or not.

  They entered the small room where they’d been sleeping and he finally released her arm.

  Ruby seized the opportunity to put some distance between them. If he was ill, she wasn’t sure if whatever it was could possibly be contagious. Surely he’d not expose her so readily to it.

  When he took a fortifying breath, she knew whatever he was going to say wasn’t the good news Hank seemed to think it was.

  “We must speak at length. I suggest you sit down.” His stoic command weakened her legs, but she refused to sit.

  It would be hard to do so anyway as her heartbeat picked up and throat constricted. “Whatever is the matter?”

  “First of all, I’ve just discovered the ill man Pearson is my brother, whom I’ve not see since I was three.” He paused and swallowed. “He and I plan to become reacquainted so he is returning to Angel Creek with me.”

  With me. Did he realize he’d not said “us”?

  “I understand. It makes sense. Of course he should return with us.” He opened his mouth, but she quickly continued. “There is something of urgency I must inform you of. It’s something I should have told you days ago.”

  Trevor stalked to the bag his clothing was in and pulled out the small handkerchief. Immediately she realized it was the one Charles’ cousin had left on their bed. “Does it have anything to do with this? I saw you...this morning. You and your lover.”

  “Lover?” Ruby was astounded. However had he come to such a conclusion. Had that man poisoned her husband’s mind with lies? “That man is not my lover,” she exclaimed. “I only know him because...”

  “You purposely went out of your way to hide this,” Trevor uttered, waving the small piece of cloth. “As well as the wrapping and ribbon. Speak, enlighten me.” There was a strange gleam in Trevor’s eyes, as if he barely held himself from pouncing forward and throttling her.

  Ruby took a step backward unsure of how to start. “I didn’t want to worry you. You were so burdened with all the sick men and at first I wasn’t sure if the soldier wasn’t Charles, my fiancé.”

  The raised eyebrow spoke volumes. He didn’t believe her. “It didn’t occur to you to inform me that perhaps your dead fiancé was alive?”

  “Now that you say it that way, my actions do sound stupid of me. I-I suppose at the time, I found it trivial in comparison to what...”

  Trevor slashed a hand through the air to silence her. “Nothing would be more important than that Ruby. Stop lying.” He gritted out the last two words, jaws clenched in anger. “I can’t abide a liar.”

  What could she possibly do to convince him. “I spoke to Cookie about it. He is going to ensure the man stays away from me until we leave.”

  This seemed to anger Trevor more. Redness crawled up his neck. “You didn’t find it hard to share with another person then? However speaking to your husband was not a priority.”

  Angry now, Ruby wasn’t about to allow him to speak to her in such an accusatory manner. “Stop it this instant and allow me to speak. You will hear me out.”

  “What I will do is file for annulment upon returning to Angel Creek. You’ll have to find your own way back.” Trevor threw the handkerchief onto the floor and stormed from the room.

  “Burnt biscuits,” Ruby shouted at the empty room. “The man will listen to me if I have to tie him up and drag him back to this room.” She rushed after her husband. Trevor would hear all she had to say. The possibility Trevor talked about annulment, at this point was the least of her concerns. What she didn’t want was for him to accuse her unjustly.

  There was a commotion outside just as she exited the building. A fistfight in the center of the yard area. Men circled the two fighters not seeming to be bothered. Quite the opposite most were cheering on one or the other of the two men brawling. She raced to see who fought just as Captain Beauregard did the same. He looked to her and motioned for her to stop.

  “It’s best you stay back Mrs. Collins. I won’t have you getting hurt by those two. Not sure what has gotten into your husband, but I’m sure it’s justified.”

  “My husband?”

  Realization struck. Trevor was fighting. Brawling like a common ruffian with Charles’ cousin. Good Lord, had he called the man out and accused him publicly? Had others overheard any of the accusations?

  “My goodness,” Ruby said placing both hands over her heart as
she saw Trevor land on his back, the other man instantly over him. Then a soldier shifted and she wasn’t able to see.

  A large man broke through the crowd, bent over and lifted Trevor from the melee, then he proceeded to hold him by the shirt collar while grabbing Charles’ cousin and tossing him toward the crowd who’d grown quiet upon Captain Beauregard’s approach. Both Trevor and the other man where quickly escorted in the direction of the commander’s office.

  Picking up her skirts, Ruby rushed after them avoiding the curious looks of the men still gathered.

  “Get back to work!” Cookie barked and the men dispersed quickly. She shot him a grateful look and hurried to see what happened.

  Her head spun at all that had happened. First she and Trevor arguing over his accusations and now here she was pacing in an empty room barely able to hear what happened two doors down. Surely after what seemed to be an hour, the debate had to have been settled.

  A soldier stood in the doorway, supposedly to keep her safe, but she knew it was more to keep her away and from overhearing. The annoying men seemed to consider women much too delicate to withstand arguments and accusations, which could turn to subjects best left between men.

  She let out a sigh and stalked to the window. The courtyard was empty. The only people visible were several soldiers lingering at the kitchen’s entry. It was time for the afternoon meal. No doubt the fight would be a main topic of conversation. It was good of her husband to provide fodder for the soldier’s entertainment. Now all Ruby needed was for them to decide she’d be the next subject to discuss.

  No doubt those that didn’t hear what was said between Trevor and Charles’ cousin were quickly filled in by those that did. She glanced at the soldier.

  “Do you know why the fight started?”

  The soldier seemed startled she’d finally spoken to him. “No ma’am. Tarvis said something to your husband and then Doc punched him. Probably insulted his or your honor is what I figure.”

  “Oh. Well that does not excuse any violent behavior.” She hoped the soldier was right and no one heard whatever it was Tarvis had spouted.

  Finally there were sounds of voices as the door to Captain Beauregard’s office opened. Ruby rushed to stand by the guard and peered to see who emerged. Trevor was first. His left eye already swelling shut and his bottom lip encrusted with blood from where it had split. When his gaze met hers, she wasn’t sure how to interpret the look.

  It was a mixture of regret and embarrassment, or perhaps sadness. She certainly didn’t sense any anger or aggression, although she would not count it out. No matter that he had fought the incredibly annoying Tarvis, she was still angry with him for accusing her of adultery of all things.

  Captain Beauregard motioned for Trevor to go first in her direction. The commander not seeming to want to have to come any closer to Ruby than necessary.

  “Mrs. Collins. Your husband has explained the reason for his violent reaction was that Corporal Tarvis insulted your honor. I would like to assure you that Tarvis will be dealt with accordingly. I had already been spoken to about him by Sergeant Miller,” he said, referring to Cookie.

  Not sure how to respond, Ruby nodded. What would happen next? When the soldier and Captain made their leave, she and Trevor were left alone in the room. Trevor went to the table and leaned forward placing both hands on the surface.

  “I owe you a great apology and understand if you refuse to accept it.”

  Ruby exhaled, her ire at how he’d spoken to her earlier returning. “Exactly what part of our earlier conversation are you referring to? Accusing me of lying or of adultery?”

  He visibly winced and although always tenderhearted, especially for someone injured, she could not rid herself of the anger brewing inside. “Whatever Tarvis said seemed to convince you. It’s not very heartening that you’d believe the word of a stranger over your wife.”

  Once again Trevor grimaced. “You are correct. I am not worthy to be forgiven. I am so sorry Ruby. It’s hard for me to trust, especially women. After my mother...after what she did.”

  “I certainly understand Trevor. However, I cannot excuse the way you spoke to me. You shattered me, cut me so deeply I am not sure how long before I can recover from this.”

  Trevor met her gaze and held it as she refused to look away. It didn’t matter that she was sure hurt and sadness radiated from her eyes, it was what she felt. Here they stood facing each other, she and the one person who was supposed to protect and cherish her. The very husband who’d not so long ago said those specific words in their wedding vows.

  If he didn’t trust women and held every single one of them in the same regard as his mother. However, it was either time he moved on from it or their marriage was doomed to fail quickly. She’d not live in a home where her every movement, word, or thought was questioned.

  “I am not sure what to think. We’ve only been married a few weeks and already I’ve become the subject of your scorn and disapproval. Not only that, but you refused to think I spoke the truth to you.” She held up a hand to keep him from speaking. “Perhaps I was wrong in keeping what happened to myself. With everything on your shoulders, I didn’t want to add to your burden.”

  He nodded and looked down at his boots. “I understand. Best I wash up. We must prepare to leave first thing in the morning. Captain Beauregard has agreed it’s best we head home as the weather has become worse.”

  In truth, she did not relish the trip back nor did she look forward to being home with him. However, it was good that his brother would be returning with them. She wasn’t sure how to deal with the situation with Trevor and welcomed any advice she could garner from her friends back in Angel Creek.

  When Trevor moved to the doorway, she studied him noticing a slight limp. He probably was in no shape to travel and yet it would be a good lesson. Hank could help handle the horses while she took care of Daniel.

  Instead of following him toward the infirmary, she hurried across the way to the kitchens. Only a few soldiers remained in line, most others having already been served. She noticed biscuits from dough she’d made had been baked and were being served which filled her with pride.

  “Grab a plate. Time to eat,” Cookie called out, motioning for her to move away from the door.

  She was hungry and it wasn’t as if she had much to pack. Another soldier had begun helping, so in all honesty her help was no longer needed. However, Ruby felt useful working and there was always plenty to do which kept her busy. She was eternally grateful to Cookie for patiently teaching her the basics of cooking. Now she could fry chicken, make stew, and biscuits had become her specialty.

  Once she was seated and joined by Corporal Smith, Cookie began eating. “Heck of a right hook your husbands got there. Never expected the doc would be such a good fighter.”

  “I suppose because he grew up without anyone to protect him, he had to fight growing up,” Ruby stated. “He was a orphan you see.”

  Corporal Smith shook his head. “That explains a great deal.”

  “What do you mean?” Ruby had to ask.

  After a look from Cookie, the soldier didn’t speak, instead allowing him to speak. “Not a trusting man. Seems to keep everyone at a distance. However, he is a good doctor and has a great deal of patience. I wondered why he never spoke of family any of the times he’s been out here. Was actually shocked to see you with him this time.”

  They ate in silence for a long time and Ruby waited for Corporal Smith to leave to speak to Cookie about what had occurred between her and Trevor earlier.

  The old sergeant poured coffee and settled across from her. “I take it the fight had to do with our conversation earlier.”

  “Yes,” Ruby said exhaling. “It went horribly wrong. He didn’t believe a word I said. I don’t know what Tarvis said to him, but afterwards, he apologized for not taking me at my word.”

  “Needs to do more than apologize,” Cookie grumbled. “He deserved a throttling. Anyone who knows you can tell you h
ave a good heart and a kind spirit.”

  In that moment, it occurred to Ruby that she’d spent much more time with Cookie and Corporal Smith talking, working, and discussing the day-to-day happenings. It was the type of thing she’d never done with Trevor. Yes they had been forced to remain indoors for a couple weeks, but they’d barely known each other. They definitely had not developed the easy companionship that comes from people who spend time doing things together.

  She’d learned from Cookie and they’d become friends. She’d developed a brother-sister relationship with the young Corporal Smith. However in the case of Trevor, they became husband and wife before knowing little more than each other’s names. Even while snowbound, they’d remained awkward around each other, not quiet knowing what their roles entailed.

  There had been expectations on her part and hopes for the future getting to know her husband. However, this trip had interrupted the chance to learn about one another.

  Not exactly easy to be comfortable and allow things to progress naturally in cases like theirs. Instead they’d been on their best behavior, using courtesy as a shield to hide the confusing emotions inside.

  “You know,” Ruby started. “I feel as if I don’t know Trevor at all. We’ve had such a strange start to our marriage. Between the storm and coming here where we’ve been more apart than together, we’ve not grown closer. If anything, I’d say we are like mere acquaintances.”

  “Understandable.” Cookie got to his feet. “I’ll ensure to have plenty of food for your trip packed, so come by first thing in the morning.” He stretched. “No, never mind. I’ll send Corporal Smith to see you off with it.”

  Ruby understood she’d been dismissed and smiled at the man’s back. He wasn’t going to say goodbye now, nor would he see them off. “I’ll miss you too Cookie.”

  He pretended not to hear her and turned to bark out orders to the soldiers to clean up the eating area.

  Chapter Twelve

  Trevor had not come to bed the night before. Ruby knew he was avoiding her and it suited her just fine. It wouldn’t do to smother him with a pillow while he slept as her ire had yet to diminish.