Deep River

by Shirleen Davies

  Turning to Nick, Gabe nodded when Paul held up a glass. “Caleb served under me during the war. He’s the man I mentioned contacting about becoming a deputy.”

  Nick’s suspicions eased, his features relaxing. “I’d say that’s good news. Hope you’re serious about taking up Gabe’s offer.”

  Caleb didn’t take his gaze off Gabe as he answered. “The colonel and I have a lot to talk about, but I’d say I’m interested.”

  “Caleb’s been with the Texas Rangers the last few years, Nick.”

  “You ever hear of Dax and Luke Pelletier?” Nick asked, leaning back against the bar.

  “Knew of them. They left the Rangers before I ever met them. Why?”

  Gabe swallowed his whiskey, setting the empty glass aside. “It’s something we’ll talk about, but Dax and Luke own Redemption’s Edge, just north of here. They have the biggest spread in western Montana.”

  Caleb’s brows lifted. “Heard rumors of them inheriting a ranch from another Ranger. Guess they were true.”

  Gabe clasped him on the back. “Finish your drink, then we’ll talk.”

  Taking one last swallow, Caleb grinned. “I’m ready.”

  “Good to meet you, Caleb. I’m sure we’ll be seeing a lot of each other.”

  “Thanks, Nick.” Nodding at Paul, Caleb followed Gabe outside.

  “Thought you’d look me up when you first arrived.” Gabe headed toward the jail, knowing Beau was inside, keeping watch on the prisoners.

  “Whiskey, women, and work, in that order, Colonel. It hasn’t failed me yet.”

  Gabe laughed, knowing it wasn’t true. Caleb had always been focused on his job, doing whatever had to be done. Nothing competed with it, including whiskey and women.

  “That a new motto for you? I never knew you to put anything ahead of your work.”

  Caleb’s features stilled as they took the steps up to the jail. “War changes a man’s priorities and view of humanity, including mine. I let work control my life once too often. I’ll never make that mistake again.”

  Opening the door, Gabe glanced over his shoulder, vowing to learn more about what happened to his friend after the war. “Beau, you in the back?”

  “Right here, Gabe.” Beau stepped around the corner, stopping when he saw another man.

  “Beau, this is Caleb Covington. He served under me during the war, but don’t hold that against the man.” Gabe looked at Caleb. “This is ex-Confederate Captain Beau Davis.”

  Beau walked forward, extending his hand. “I can put it aside if you can, Covington.”

  He didn’t waste any time grasping Beau’s hand.

  “You’ll find we have a lot of people from both sides living in Splendor, Caleb. My other deputy, Cash Coulter, was also a captain for the Confederacy.”

  “No issues with me, Colonel.”

  “Caleb, we’ve been friends a long time. I’d appreciate it if you started calling me Gabe or Sheriff. Either is good. I’m no longer a colonel.”

  “Is he the man you sent for, Gabe?” Beau asked.

  “He is, Beau.” Gabe looked at Caleb. “I’m hoping he’ll be joining us.”

  Beau studied Caleb, then grabbed his hat. “Good to meet you, Covington. Since you’re here, Gabe, I’ll head over to Suzanne’s for dinner and pick up food for the prisoners.”

  “Take your time. I’ll take Caleb over when you get back.”

  Stepping out into the noonday sun, Beau pushed the hat down on his head, his thoughts already moving from Caleb to Caro. Bull told him she’d gone to Big Pine with Travis and Tat. From what he knew, she hadn’t returned. Not that he cared.

  “You heading to Suzanne’s?” Cash joined Beau as he crossed the street, dodging wagons and horses.

  “Didn’t have time for breakfast. I’ve been surviving on your bad coffee all day.” Lifting his hand to the latch on the front door, his movement stilled as a wagon approached with Caro sitting next to Travis. It took seconds for her to spot him, their gazes locking. Without breaking eye contact, he dropped his grip on the handle, taking a few steps to the edge of the boardwalk as Travis pulled the wagon to a stop.

  “Beau, Cash.” Travis set the brake, then jumped down as Tat pulled up behind him.

  “Travis. You and Tat just getting back from Big Pine?” Cash asked, feeling Beau stiffen beside him.

  “We are. I need to find Noah. He’s going to store the wagons holding Miss Caroline’s belongings in the livery until she’s ready for them.” Helping Caro down, he turned back to Cash and Beau. “Do you mind taking Miss Caroline inside with you? She hasn’t eaten since this morning.”

  Caro’s eyes darted between Beau and Travis. “Oh, that’s not necessary. I’ll go on up to the hotel, Travis.”

  Cash took a few steps toward her, taking her arm. “Come on inside with us, Caro. I want to hear about what you plan to do with the Miller place.”

  Catching her lower lip between her teeth, she sent a worried look at Beau.

  “I’d also like to hear your plans, Caroline.” Beau’s use of her full name didn’t feel right, yet she found herself moving forward.

  “I’ll come inside once Tat and I get the wagons secure.” Travis waved as he walked toward the livery.

  Caro couldn’t stop her heart from pounding as Cash escorted her past Beau and into the restaurant. She hadn’t expected him to be the first person she saw on their return to Splendor, hadn’t wanted to see him until after moving into her new home.

  “You’re back.” Suzanne Briar walked up, giving Caro a hug. “Did you get everything accomplished?” She looked between her and Beau, feeling the tension.

  Caro let out a breath, doing her best to relax. “Why, yes, I did. Travis and Tat were wonderful.”

  “I’m so glad. You must be starved. Let’s find you a table.” Suzanne looked around, settling on one near the window. “Follow me.”

  Caro spotted four chairs and looked at Suzanne. “I believe Tat and Travis may join us.”

  “I can fix that.” She pulled up one more chair. “There. Now, I’ll get you all some coffee.”

  An uneasy silence enveloped them as they waited for Suzanne to return, which didn’t take long. Setting down the cups, she took their orders, then headed back to the kitchen.

  “I’m sure you’re anxious to move into your new place.”

  Taking a sip of coffee, Caro nodded, doing her best not to look at Beau. “Yes, I am. Although I’m afraid much needs to be done before I can spend the night. Some of the windows are broken, which shouldn’t take too long to replace. It needs a thorough cleaning, and the kitchen sink has rusted out. As soon as those and a few other things are fixed, I’ll move in. The broken locks and front door can wait.”

  Beau’s anger rose at her words, finding he couldn’t control his thoughts. “You’re not moving in until the place is safe.”

  Moving her gaze to his face, she saw the hard set of his jaw. “Excuse me?”

  “You won’t be living in a house that isn’t secure.” Beau didn’t know what had pushed him to make demands, other than his growing desire to reach out and haul her onto his lap. Desire had slammed into him the instant he’d seen her on the wagon, forcing him to ignore what he wanted. He’d controlled the urge, but weakened when her safety became an issue.

  Caro bit her lower lip to still her response. She didn’t need to get into an argument with Beau or anyone. It was her house and her decision.

  “Thank you, Deputy. I will certainly consider your advice.” Her sarcastic remark wasn’t lost on either of her tablemates.

  Beau leaned toward her, ignoring what he knew to be her growing anger. “When was the last time you lived outside the boundaries of a town?”

  “Well, never.”

  “Exactly. You have no idea what can happen living alone several miles from town.”

  Cash cleared his throat. “Beau’s right, Caro. You shouldn’t move into the place until all the windows and doors are fixed and you’ve got new locks installed. Noah can h
elp with the locks, and he’ll make sure they’re solid.”

  Sitting back in the chair, she crossed her arms. “Fine. I’ll talk to him today.” Blowing out a breath, she looked at Beau. “Satisfied?”

  He had to glance away so she wouldn’t see the amusement on his face. “Yes, Caroline. I am.”

  “Who’s doing the repairs?” Cash asked, glad one obstacle had been crossed.

  “Mr. Clausen has some men in mind. I’ll be speaking with them tomorrow.”

  “Maybe Beau or I should go with you.” Cash held up a hand when she opened her mouth. “I’d recommend the same to any woman on her own. There are a lot of scoundrels out there, Caro.”

  She nodded. “Travis already convinced me to have Gabe or Nick speak with them.”

  “I’ll do it.” The words were out before Beau could stop them.

  “I don’t think—”

  “It’s settled, Caroline. I’ll speak with Clausen about his suggestions in the morning.”

  “You certainly will not, Beauregard. I can speak with him myself.”

  Cash choked on his coffee at the use of Beau’s full name. Nobody used it—ever.

  A muscle in Beau’s jaw twitched, his eyes dark as they bored into hers. “I’ll meet you at the bank when they open. You’ll not be changing my mind.”

  Their gazes locked, neither willing to look away. After a few moments, Caro tossed her napkin on the table and stood.

  “Fine. Just don’t bring Sarah Murton with you.” Not waiting for a response, Caro stomped toward the front and out the door.

  “What the hell?” Beau mumbled, stunned, his gaze following Caro’s retreating back.

  Chapter Four

  “Come inside, Beau. Mrs. Iverson is already in my office.” Harold Clausen led the way, opening the door to his office. “Take a seat and I’ll tell both of you about the men I’m suggesting.”

  Taking off his hat, Beau took the chair next to Caro. “Good morning, Caroline.”

  “Beauregard. It’s such a pleasure to see you again so soon.” Her too sweet reply almost made him laugh.

  Beau had lain awake much of the night wondering why he offered to meet with her and Clausen. She’d made it clear she didn’t want his involvement, yet he’d kept insisting, determined to change her mind.

  Clausen sat down across his desk from them, ignoring the exchange. “There are two men who are finishing work for Ty out at the Murton ranch.” He looked at Beau. “That would be Sarah Murton’s cousin.”

  “I know who he is,” Beau responded through clenched teeth.

  “How convenient.” Caro directed the comment to Horace, but had no doubt Beau knew it was meant for him.

  “Do you have a problem with them, Mrs. Iverson?”

  “None whatsoever, Mr. Clausen. Do you, Beauregard?”

  He scowled at her. “None, Caroline.”

  “Excellent. Ty said to ride out anytime. They should be finished up for him within a few days.” Seeing them nod, he rested his arms on the desk, clasping his hands together. “Is there anything else I may help you with?”

  Caro stood, prompting the other two men to also stand. “No, Mr. Clausen. You’ve been quite helpful.” Nodding at Beau, she turned to leave.

  “I’ll walk you out.” Beau took a light grip on her elbow.

  “I can make it outside by myself.”

  “Of course you can.” Ushering her outside, he released his grip. “When do you want to ride out to Ty Murton’s place?”

  Blinking against the mid-morning sun, she faced him. “I’ve already arranged to use one of Noah’s wagons. I’ll be leaving right away.” Starting to walk away, she stopped when he touched her shoulder.

  “I’ll meet you at the livery.”

  Placing fisted hands on her hips, she glared up at him. “I plan to go alone.”

  Beau almost laughed at her bravado. “When was the last time you drove a wagon, Caroline?”

  Catching her bottom lip between her teeth, she closed her eyes, calming her building temper. “I’m certain I can learn.”

  Cocking an eyebrow, he crossed his arms. “Does that mean you’ve never driven a wagon?”

  “Well, I…um…”

  “Have you ever handled a wagon, Caro?”

  “How hard can it be? I’ve ridden in them so often, I’m certain I can manage.”

  Shaking his head, Beau took hold of her elbow, directing her down the street toward Noah’s livery. “I’ll drive today. When you have time, I’ll teach you how to do it yourself.”

  Her eyes widened. “You’d do that?”

  Stopping, he turned her toward him, his brows furrowing, his hands resting lightly on her arms. “Why wouldn’t I?”

  Caro shook her head, working to hold his intense gaze. “I thought, after seeing you with Sarah Murton—”

  “There you are, Mr. Davis.” Sarah walked up, holding out a covered plate. “I know how much you like my cornbread, so I made extra.” Nodding at Caro, she stood within inches of Beau.

  Inwardly groaning, Beau dropped his hands from Caro’s arms, seeing her features still. “Although I’m grateful, Miss Murton, you don’t need to bake for me.” He made no move to accept the plate.

  Her face flushed, her body shifting as her gaze moved between Beau and Caro. “I made this because I wanted to, Mr. Davis. Not because I felt obligated.”

  The look of distress on her face tugged at Beau’s heart. He had no intention of causing Sarah any pain. Reaching out, he took the plate. “Thank you. I appreciate the thoughtfulness.”

  “Well, I should return to the schoolhouse.” She moved her gaze to Caro. “One of my older students is keeping watch on the other children.”

  “Of course.” Caro didn’t know what else to say to the woman who seemed to have caught Beau’s attention.

  After a quick smile at Beau, Sarah left, hurrying back down the boardwalk.

  He glanced at the plate in his hand, showing no interest in the still warm bread. “I’ll leave this at the jail.”

  Caro pushed away what felt like jealousy, a sensation she’d never experienced before returning to Splendor. “She’s a very nice woman, Beau.”

  “I can’t argue with you.” As much as he wanted to clarify his lack of interest in Sarah, Beau didn’t believe it would matter to Caro. She’d made it clear she had no desire to marry him, which was all that mattered, and she didn’t show any sign of changing her mind. “I’ll be right back.”

  Caro turned toward the building across the street, shoulders slumping as Beau disappeared inside the jail. He’d said nothing to change her perception he courted Sarah. Caro didn’t know what she’d expected. Always the gentleman, it would’ve been out of character for him to say anything uncomplimentary about her. Still, he didn’t act as if he had much interest in the woman.

  Caro wondered if Isabella was right in saying she’d heard nothing of Beau courting the schoolteacher. Maybe what Caro saw at the party hadn’t been what it seemed. So lost in her own thoughts, she didn’t hear him step up beside her.

  “Are you ready?”

  She spun toward him, offering a distracted nod. “Don’t feel you must go with me.”

  Beau let out a frustrated sigh. “It’s already been decided, and Gabe is fine with me going.” He glanced behind her toward the livery, seeing his friend standing next to the wagon. “Noah is ready for us. The sooner we leave, the sooner we can get back.”

  Knowing he wouldn’t change his mind, Caro nodded, then waved to Noah. “I suppose you’re right.”

  Beau almost chuckled at the lack of enthusiasm in her voice. He didn’t care. Watching her wrangle a wagon for the first time held no interest, nor did worrying about her safety.

  “Are you going with her, Beau?” Noah stepped forward, bending to give Caro a kiss on the cheek.

  “I’ll be driving her to Ty Murton’s. Mind if I borrow a pair of your gloves?”

  “Go on inside. You’ll see some on the work table.” Noah waited until Beau stepped int
o the building, then turned to Caro. “Does he know?”

  “What do you mean?”

  “Maybe it’s not my place, but it seems obvious you came back to Splendor because of Beau. Have you told him that?”

  Surprise flickered in her eyes before she let out a weary sigh, shaking her head. “No.”

  “You need to tell him, Caro.”

  She looked past Noah, seeing no sign of Beau. “What would I say, Noah? From what I saw, he’s shifted his interest to Sarah.”

  Noah chuckled at the thought of Beau courting the teacher.

  “What’s so funny? They were together at Bull and Lydia’s party, and I understand she stops by the jail several times a week, delivering pies and, well…whatever.”

  “Sorry, Caro, but you’ve gotten the wrong impression. You don’t need to worry about Sarah. She brings pie to all the single men. Before I asked Abby to marry me, it drove her crazy when she saw Sarah come by the livery. I finally had to confront her on the matter, letting Sarah know I planned to marry Abby.” Noah sighed. “As a single man, it was hard turning my back on fresh baked pie.” Seeing Beau walking toward them, he lowered his voice. “Think about it.”

  Stopping next to them, Beau held up a pair of gloves, a question in his eyes.

  “Take them. Just remember to leave them with the wagon when you come back.”

  “Thanks, Noah. We’ll be back this afternoon.”

  Caro straightened her spine, searching for a comfortable position on the hard wagon seat without moving closer to Beau. They’d been on the trail over an hour, most of it in silence. He’d pointed out a few sights, including the turnoff to her new place, not mentioning it was the same trail he took to his own ranch. She didn’t need him to tell her. Mr. Clausen had already mentioned Beau was the closest neighbor, a fact Isabella had failed to mention when she first told her about the property. Caro had almost backed away, reconsidering when she saw the house and land.

  “Another few miles and we’ll be there. How are you doing?”

  “I’m doing fine.”

  The tone of her voice had Beau glancing at her. “You sure? I can stop the wagon, let you get out and stretch your legs.”