The sheriff shook his hand. “Levi Smith. I remember you. Over there is my deputy, Ronan Murphy. The courthouse is down the street.”
“I was wondering about my share of the bounty money.”
“That you take up with Bridgette. Thanks for checking in. Stay out of trouble, and you won’t ever see the inside of my cells.”
“I intend to Sheriff. Thanks for the warning.” Chad nodded and exited the jail. Just by standing inside the building, his heartbeat had jumped up a notch. Then again, there’d been few times when he’d been allowed to walk out of jail peaceably.
He passed the hotel and went on down to the courthouse. Across the street and up a ways, he saw The Gilded Lady Saloon. Chad shook his head to keep any idea of going to the local entertainment out of his mind. He opened the door to the courthouse. The big room was cold and dark except for two offices to the side.
Chad chose the first office and saw a man in a suit sitting at a desk. Chad tapped on the door.
The man stood. “Yes, how can I help you?”
“I’m Chad Dawson. Bridgette Merritt instructed me to check in with you.”
The man grinned. “Yes, come in and sit down. Bridgette would have been here herself, but our baby decided to stay awake most of the night.” He shuffled through some papers. “Here it is. She wants to meet you in the hotel dining room tomorrow.”
“The money—”
“She has all the information and will explain things to you then. You did get the allowance she sent to the prison for you?”
“Yes, and I think the first thing I should do is get some new boots and clothes.”
Mr. Merritt nodded. “Just make sure you save enough for your hotel stay.”
“Yes, sir.” Chad turned to leave.
Mr. Merritt came from behind the desk. “A word of advice stay out of trouble. Right now, I see an insolent young man standing in front of me. Bridgette doesn’t suffer fools gladly.”
Chad tipped his hat back on his head. “I have no intention of getting into trouble or being insolent. Whatever that means. I’ve served my time. And I’m no fool.” He brushed past Merritt, irritated at the man’s quick judgment against him.
“You’re going to have to prove that. I hope you will.”
Chad resisted the urge to pop the man in the mouth. Well, he didn’t have any intention of causing trouble. On the other hand, he wasn’t opposed to meeting it head-on if it came at him. But today, he’d get some new clothes, go to the hotel, and have a nice dinner. He could handle himself. He’d had enough of prison life.
After leaving the courthouse, Chad looked up the street, but this time instead of the saloon, Chad’s gaze lit on the church with the high steeple pointing skyward. Some of the anger that had boiled up inside him cooled.
Mama had gone to church and always talked about God. Chad missed that. God was a constant like the big mountain that overlooked the town. Something immovable that could give one strength during times when they were weak. Someday, he’d go to church.
Chad turned his back on the past and the church and went to the general store. Soon he came out feeling a little better in his new clothes. He checked in at the hotel and then ate at the diner.
What woman would want to marry a barely ex-outlaw with nothing to his name but the clothes on his back and only the promise of half his bounty? The more he thought about it, the more convinced Chad became that his mail-order bride would take one look at him and want nothing to do with him.
Chapter 2
Hannah stepped off the train and took in a deep breath of fresh air. Montana. She’d made it. There had been that tussle in Chicago when the detectives found her, and she had to scream and accuse them of kidnapping her for nefarious reasons. But she’d gotten away and jumped on the train to Wyoming.
She figured the two were still on her trail, but she’d made it Shirleyville. Hannah looked at her wrinkled skirt and blouse with the sucker residue and decided she better find a dress shop. Then she wondered if it would matter since she really had no intention of marrying someone she didn’t know.
But after a strand of her hair got stuck to her shirt, she knew she had to change and get a bath. If there was one in this little town. Still, Shirleyville was quaint and clean. Not at all what she’d thought it would be like in the wild west.
Since she didn’t have any luggage, Hannah walked down the platform and to the street. She wouldn’t meet the matchmaker until she had a chance to clean up. Besides, after being cooped up on the train, her cramped legs enjoyed the walk.
Then she saw Francesca’s Dress Shop. It looked fancy enough to have been on Fifth Avenue in New York City. Feeling almost at home, Hannah opened the door. A pretty skirt and blouse on a mannequin in the window were just what she wanted.
If the detectives found her, she would call on the sheriff to rescue her. So, she didn’t need a disguise of any sort. Hannah was free to be herself. She went to the shelves and picked out several blouses and skirts along with the appropriate undergarments.
She’d just stepped to the counter when a well-dressed woman came out from behind the curtains from the back of the shop.
“Can I help you?”
“I think I’ve found everything. Oh, except I’d like the outfit you have in the window. Very stylish.”
“Yes, it is. I’m Francesca and the owner of the shop. You look to be new to town.”
Hannah grinned. “Yes, I am. Just stepped off the train.” She pointed to her skirt. “As you can see by the wrinkles. I wasn’t able to bring my luggage, so I need just about everything.” Hannah would keep an eye on Francesca. She was obviously one of those women who valued information and the spreading of it.
“And you are from?”
“Well, the train comes from Billings.” Hannah knew better than to give out information that she wanted to keep private. But the woman would be a good one to throw false news her way to keep the detectives from finding her.
“I see. Let me get the items.” The shopkeeper whooshed her way to the window and took down the display. “Who are you meeting in Shirleyville?”
“I’m not sure. I’m just visiting for now.”
Bringing the items, Francesca smiled, trying to look friendly. “Oh, you have family here?”
Hannah fingered the skirt. “This is nice material. Are you sure you’re charging enough?” In her experiences around New York, Hannah had discovered the one way to dissuade a gossip was to counter with another vice, like greed.
“You think so? Well, this is a charming town, but the people can’t afford to pay exorbitant prices, you know.”
Hannah nodded. “Yes, I understand. Yet, if you want your high paying clientele to feel appreciated, it would be best to put a price that would keep the clothing out of the reach of the commoners.”
With dollar signs in her eyes, Francesca nodded. “You may be right. Thank you, I will consider it. You seem to be a very educated young woman. Are you married?”
“No, I haven’t found the man of my dreams yet. I’m sure you understand as I don’t see a ring on your finger.” Hannah enjoyed toying with Francesca. Yet, Hannah knew she did need friends in this small town.
Friendships with other girls back in New York had been scarce. Hannah enjoyed the boys and their games, but the girls only cared about dolls and boys and then dances and dresses. Hannah was interested in everything. The world, politics, and science. Mother had given up on her, and Father adored her even though he kept trying to rule her.
Hannah smiled at the shop owner. “Shirleyville, is there a Shirley?”
Francesca frowned. “There was. Judge Taggart, who started the town and owns practically the whole valley, had a wife and daughter who died of a fever. That was some time ago. Long before I came to the town.”
Hannah fingered her reticule. “I would like to wear the outfit. Do you take a break for lunch? I would like to eat at the hotel dining room and would enjoy your company.”
Francesca looked shocked. �
�Why that would be most pleasant. I can’t remember the last time I had lunch with a friend.”
“Good, that’s settled then. I will consider you my first friend in Shirleyville.” Hannah hadn’t planned on doing such a thing, but she was feeling a bit lonely. She’d never been away from home for more than a day. It would be good to have a friend, and Francesca would know everyone and about them all, too.
“Wonderful, let me finish wrapping these things. Are you staying at the hotel?”
“Yes, until I decide what I want to do.”
“I see.”
While Hannah changed into the outfit, Francesca wrapped her items in neat packages. “I’ll help you carry them to the hotel if you’d like. Then you can put them in your room before we eat.”
Hannah admired herself in the mirror. “Perfect. You do exquisite work. Thank you for the offer. Are you ready to go?”
Francesca nodded, grabbed her reticule, and together they left the shop.
Hannah checked in with the clerk and got her key. Together, she and Francesca took her purchases to her room. The hotel, like the town, was picturesque. Neat and clean, Hannah thought she wouldn’t mind staying here for some time.
Francesca had gone to the window and pulled back the curtains. “Oh, look at the wonderful view you have.”
Hannah looked out and saw that her room faced the big mountain. It was a breathtaking view, and she would have to thank the clerk for giving her the room. All in all, she was enjoying her trip. “What a magnificent view.”
Finished putting her clothes away, Hannah smiled at her new friend. “Are you ready for lunch? I take it the food is good.”
Francesca nodded. “I don’t eat here often, but it has always been excellent.”
“Where do you live?”
“In Cindy’s Boarding House. It’s clean, very neat, and Cindy makes the best meals.” Despite the pleasant words, Francesca ended with a slight frown.
Hannah thought Francesca was a few years older and probably afraid of becoming a spinster. Hannah’s heart went out to her. She’d have to ask about her story sometime. But today wasn’t that day.
Francesca gave a slight sigh. “I had dreamed of finding a man to marry, but so far, I have not found one that would fit my fancies. Perhaps I am too particular. You’re much younger. Take my advice and don’t waste time looking for the perfect man.”
“I will take that into consideration. Right now, I am enjoying my freedom. I love this country. I had no idea that Montana is beautiful. Shall we go to the hotel dining room?”
Francesca nodded. “Yes, I am hungry. I like Montana, but when winter comes, I’m afraid the beauty is snowed under for months.”
“Yet, you stayed. Are you originally from here?” Downstairs, she followed Francesca into the dining room, where a waiter sat them at a table.
Francesca sat, and her eyes took on a dreamy look. “No, at one time, I lived in New Orleans. When I was young, it was a magical place of balls and mansions.” With a look of pain, she went on. “Then, everything changed. Father had arranged a marriage with a family friend, and we were in love. Oh, we were only children, but I loved Darren. And he loved me.”
Hannah waited, but Francesca was lost in her memories.
After a few moments, the woman wiped her eyes. “I’m sorry. It’s been some time since I entertained thoughts about him. My Darren died rather suddenly before we were married. Darren left this world and left me alone.”
“I’m so sorry.” Hannah reached out and took the grieving woman’s hand.
“Well, that was many years ago, and I was only a child. I am a woman now, but I haven’t found the man who could take Darren’s place.”
“Do you think you will?” Hannah squeezed the woman’s hand and then let go as their food arrived.
After thanking the waiter, Francesca gazed at Hannah. “I don’t know. I think I left New Orleans with the idea of going as far away as I could. Many a day, I wonder what I am doing out here in Montana. Yet, I stay.”
“Well, I am thankful to have you as a friend. During my stay here, I’d love to have dinner with you again.”
Francesca smiled. “As would I. On Fridays, I can bring a guest for dinner if I let Cindy know ahead of time.”
“Wonderful. I will count on it. This Friday?”
Francesca beamed. “Yes, I would love that. You know, you have a real eye for fashion.”
Not ready to reveal who she really was, Hannah merely nodded. “It’s clear for me to see that you know what goes well together. I shall shop at your store frequently.”
“Thank you, Hannah. And thank you for your friendship. Even though we have known each other such a short time, I feel as if we have been friends forever.”
“Yes, I do too. And thank you. You’ve made me feel welcome in a strange town.”
The clock dinged the second hour.
Francesca finished her food and sipped her coffee. “I need to get back to the shop. I’ll pay for your bill. The least I can do for such a good customer and a new friend.”
Hannah was taken by surprise. “That’s most generous of you. I will pay the next time.”
“That’s a deal. Have a good day, dear. I look forward to our meal at the boarding house on Friday.”
Hannah nodded and waved goodbye and truly hated to see Francesca leave. It felt good to have a friend. With the dress shop and fashion, it was as if they had kindred hearts. Yet, Hannah felt sorry for Francesca at losing the love of her life. Perhaps she could do some matchmaking of her own for her new friend.
Finished with her meal, Hannah left the diner. She should see to this Bridgette Matchmaker woman, but all the train rides had worn her out. She inquired at the hotel desk and ordered a bath sent to her room.
Today, she would soak in a hot bath and get an early night’s sleep. Tomorrow would be the day to deal with the letter and the groom. Plus, she would return the money that Bridgette had sent her as an allowance. Hannah didn’t need it. Besides, she had no intention of meeting the groom Bridgette had picked for her.
After all, in this small town, what kind of man could he be. A dusty cowboy? Besides, she didn’t think he could earn enough to keep her satisfied.
Still, Francesca’s warning kept coming to her. How would she know when it was time to take the man in front of her and not try and find Mr. Perfect? One thing she did know, Hannah didn’t want to end up an old maid.
She ordered another cup of coffee and took it to her room.
***
Chad glared out of his hotel window at the saloon up the street. Of all the rooms to give him, this is the one he didn’t need. He almost wondered if Bridgette had arranged it to test him. Well, he wasn’t going to fail. Not the first day anyway.
He shut the window to blot out the tinny music coming from the saloon. Whiskey had gotten him in more trouble than anything else, and Chad knew to stay away from it. Still, the temptation of having a cold beer was almost too much, but he knew better than to fall for the I’ll-have-just-one trick.
In the past, like a tumbleweed, he’d drifted from one town to another. No need for friends, they either left or got killed in the life he’d stumbled into. No roots. No friends. No life. He stared out the closed window, but this time he looked at the church that was just above the saloon.
His mother had taken them to the church in the small town in Nebraska. He couldn’t even remember the name of it as the memories were too painful to recall. Before the Indians had attacked, Chad had enjoyed life.
Fishing and hunting. Tilling the ground with his father and then watching as new life poked through the rich black earth. He’d even enjoyed school and reading. Mother had made sure he could read well and encouraged him to study.
The lone survivor of the attack, Chad, had sold the farm and drifted to the next town. And the next and the next. Soon, his money was gone. The only thing he’d kept was a little book of his mother’s, a prayer book. He’d not looked at it since getting out of prison.
With a shrug, Chad took the small book from his shirt pocket and opened it. His mother had written on the first page about her family and how she loved them. Chad closed his eyes and wished the Indians had never attacked.
He’d had plans for his life. Maybe to go to college. Learn about the world. Even to thinking that what he would do with his life may not have even been invented yet.
Instead, Chad had let revenge take over. He’d joined the army for a stent to chase Indians, but he didn’t get the peace he sought from the killing. Often, they attacked innocent Indians who’d done nothing wrong other than being born an Indian. Chad tired of the blood and death and quit.
He shoved the past from his mind, opened the book, and turned the page. He read one prayer. The Lord’s Prayer. The words seemed to go down deep into his heart and soul to a place that was dry and lifeless. The prayer sent a refreshing sense of peace to him. Chad thought of the words and looked back out the window at the church. Maybe he’d stop in.
And maybe he wouldn’t. Chad paced the small room, impatient for his meeting with Bridgette. Was she testing him? The few times they’d met, he’d gotten the idea that she didn’t like him. Well, that worked both ways.
He grabbed his hat and started for the door. Don’t ruin your second chance. The words came from his heart, and he stopped. Second chance. That was what he’d been given. Without Brigette, he could have spent at least five years in prison. She’d spoken up for him. Promised he’d get the help he needed to start a new life.
What did Bridgette have for him to do? She hadn’t told him. As his lawyer, she’d asked him many questions. But she hadn’t come out and told him what his job would be. Bridgette had promised to set him up with one that would support a wife and children if he worked hard.
He owed it to Bridgette to hear her out. Standing at the door, Chad shook his head and threw his hat on the bed. “I owe it to myself.” He sat on the bed and lowered his head. “Father in heaven, help me walk the good path and seek the good ways. You gave me a second chance. Don’t let me mess it up. Amen.”
Chad felt better after his prayer. While it might not have been what angels longed to hear, he believed that it went where it was supposed to, and the Lord heard him. He’d follow the rules for now.
Hannah Page 2