Sarah stared off into the distance, realizing nothing she said would change Jonathan’s mind.
“I can tell by your silence that you’re still angry with me.” Jonathan touched her arm.
She shrugged him off. “I see no point in discussing this further. I just want to go back to Maggie’s place.”
“What about the riverboats? I thought you wanted to see one close up.”
“I’ve changed my mind.” She added an icy tone to her voice.
Jonathan cracked the reins, quickening the horse’s pace. The remainder of the ride passed in silence. Sarah simmered over his behavior toward Wolf while Jonathan focused on the road ahead, his normally smooth brow etched with deep furrows.
When he halted the rig at the boarding house front door, Sarah climbed out before he came around to help her down. She stood, smoothing her skirt as he rounded the back of the buggy. Sarah flashed a forced smile. “Thank you for the outing.”She turned to go inside.
“Please wait.” He sighed and walked closer when she faced him. “I appreciate that you want to see your friend’s dream come true, but surely you can’t believe that a filthy half-breed is ever going to earn enough money to buy a herd, let alone pay off the land.”
Sarah’s mouth gaped. The blood in her veins burned hot. Her hand shot out and connected with Jonathan’s cheek. The slap echoed beneath the covered porch. “You have no right to judge Wolf. You barely know him. He’s not filthy, and the circumstance of his birth has no bearing on the type of man he is. I would much rather be in the company of someone like him than a…a…scalawag like you.” She whirled, went inside and slammed the door behind her.
* * *
Sarah walked away with Montgomery, and Wolf’s gut wrenched. Seeing her stirred emotions he wanted to deny. He groaned, knowing he had no right to the jealousy eating at him. Sarah was a friend and nothing more. He’d made that decision.
But denying his feelings did nothing to ease his turmoil. Even though he’d heard the easterner invite her on an outing, it pained him to know she’d actually accepted. What did she see in Montgomery that he didn’t? The man’s demeanor niggled at Wolf. He bit his bottom lip. What if he lost his bid for the land to the Yankee, too? He couldn’t let that happen—wouldn’t.
He knelt and splashed cool creek water in his face, still justifying things. Sarah had every right to pick her escort. Besides, Jonathan Montgomery had resources to provide her with a life she deserved. Wolf certainly didn’t have anything to offer.
Standing, he wiped his damp hands on his chest. He needed to keep busy. Once he involved himself in the hard labor of building his ranch, thoughts of Sarah would fade. She’d be just a memory—one seared into his heart and mind.
Chapter Twenty-Two
Sarah leaned against the door, her hand against her thudding heart. First, the outburst at the mercantile and now this. How could she have slapped Jonathan? She’d never raised her hand to another person in her life, but his abrasive words about Wolf had ignited an explosion of emotions.
Maggie peeked out from the kitchen. “I heard… or felt the door close. Is everything all right?”
“I suppose that would depend on who you ask.” Sarah removed her bonnet then splayed fingers through her flattened hair. “Jonathan’s opinion might be different than mine.” Her jaw tensed.
“My goodness.” The older woman stepped into the doorway, wiping her hands on her apron. “What happened to rile you so? Come in and tell me all about it. I’ll put on some water for tea.”
* * *
Sarah took a breath after sharing the entire saga of her morning outing. At the description of the slap, Maggie leaned back in her chair, her mouth agape. She’d been leaning on her elbows, obviously immersed in the story since the beginning.
Standing, Sarah carried her teacup to the sideboard. “So, I imagine I’ve created a pretty uncomfortable situation between myself and your other boarder, wouldn’t you think?”
“I’d say so.” Maggie gave a half-hearted chuckle. “How do you plan to handle things? Mr. Montgomery is going to be here for a while yet.”
Sarah stared out the kitchen window, into the alley between Maggie’s boarding house and the building next door. A calico cat sat on a shady step, licking itself clean. She likened the animal to herself, creating a big fur ball she’d have to eventually spit out. Sarah turned to Maggie, her shoulders sagging. “What choice do I have? I’ll apologize.”
“Apology accepted.” Jonathan’s deep voice drew the women’s attention to the parlor doorway. He rubbed the side of his face. “Though I do have to say you pack a mean wallop.”
Beneath his gaze, heat rose in Sarah’s cheeks. His habit of showing up at the most inopportune time unnerved her, but she swallowed her annoyance. “I’m really sorry I slapped you. I don’t know what came over me. I do hope you’ll pardon my inexcusable behavior.”She put sincerity in her tone but not in her heart. The apology was offered only to keep peace in Maggie’s house. He deserved what he got.
Fidgeting and clearly uncomfortable, Maggie rose. “If you two will excuse me, I still have chores to tend to.” She scurried from the room.
Jonathan pulled out a chair and sat at the table. “Like I said, your request for forgiveness is accepted. You must be a very true friend to defend Wolf so… so enthusiastically. He’s lucky to have you on his side.”
Sarah squared her shoulders. “There shouldn’t have to be sides. The truth is, Wolf found the land first, and he’s making an honest attempt to pay for it. Then you come along…with… with your heavy pockets, and try to snatch his dream away. Wouldn’t you be angry if someone did that to your friend?”
Jonathan lowered his gaze. “When you put it like that, I reckon I would.”
“So… so does that mean you’ll try to find other land?”
“Whoa! Don’t put words in my mouth. That spot is perfect for Mr. Whitney’s project. I doubt I’d find another equally so.”
“Then we have nothing more to say to one another.” Sarah turned and glared out the window, her anger simmering. Upon hearing the kitchen door creak open and slam shut, she peered over her shoulder. Jonathan had gone.
“Damn!” She pounded her fist on the sideboard.
“Who are you cursin’, child?” Maggie stood in the doorway, balancing a basket on her hip. She scanned the room. “Since I don’t see Jonathan, I assume it’s him?”
“Sorry for the outburst. I seem to be doing a lot of that lately.” She sighed. “I told him I have nothing more to say to him as long as he continues to pursue Wolf’s land. The only problem is I forgot I owe the man money. I could kick myself for accepting his loan.” She sagged into a chair. “Oh, Maggie, I need a job.”
“Drat my faulty memory!” Maggie rested the basket on the table. “I ran into Martha Lawson at the mercantile. Her husband is on the town council, and she tells me they’re lookin’ for a teacher. I mentioned that I had a houseguest in need of employment. Are you interested?”
Sarah flashed back to the Indian children at the mission and what fun she’d had watching them discover new things. She straightened in her chair. “Of course! Who do I see to apply?”
“I supposed you might feel this way, so I told Martha I’d send you round to see her husband first thing tomorrow mornin’.” Maggie chuckled and hefted her laundry. She headed for the washroom. “You can find Judge Lawson at the courthouse.”
With her bonnet dangling from her hand, Sarah sailed up the stairs, feeling elated at the prospect of landing the teaching position. Surely, she could convince the judge she was capable. She opened her door, planning to freshen up a bit and return to help Maggie with supper, but her mouth gaped at the surprise on her bed.
A large bouquet of wildflowers lay propped against her pillow. A delicate ribbon held them together, a piece of paper tucked beneath. Crossing the room, Sarah did a quick glance around, confirming it empty. “Who in the world...”
She placed her stylish head covering on the q
uilt and unfolded the note.
My dearest Sarah,
I truly enjoyed our day together, and I’m so sorry it was cut short. I wanted to spend more time showing you around town and sharing the awe I knew you would experience at seeing a riverboat up close. I was wrong to speak ill of your friend. I hope you’ll accept these flowers as my way of begging your forgiveness. I hope my business plans and our personal interactions can be viewed separately. I understand there is a social planned in a few weeks, and I would like very much to be your escort. I can think of nothing more pleasant than seeing the jealous faces of all the other gentlemen when I walk in with such a beauty on my arm.
Yours truly, Jonathan Montgomery
Sarah tossed the missive on the bed and walked to the mirror. Catching sight of her reflection, she grimaced. Bonnets might be all the rage, but they certainly didn’t do a thing to improve the appearance of one’s hair. He’d seen her like this and still thought her beautiful? Pulling a brush through her flattened locks, she considered Jonathan’s invitation. She’d enjoy attending the social, but wouldn’t her acceptance just encourage his pursuit? Did she care? Even as handsome as he was, his attitude offended her. No one had the right to look down their nose at others. Maybe she should tell him how she felt.
She nodded at her image. “That’s exactly what I’ll do. If he really wants to spend time with me, he’s going have to make some changes.”
Sarah quickly washed up, changed into a lighter weight emerald green dress and put Jonathan’s flowers in the water remaining in her pitcher—her first bouquet. She stood admiring them when she heard Maggie’s voice in the hallway. “This will be your room, Mr. Duggan, and the one directly across will be yours.”
Opening her door, Sarah peered into the hallway. Maggie spied her. “Sarah, dear, please come and meet Mr. Duggan and Mr. Sikes. They’ve just arrived on the afternoon stage and will be spending the night. Gentlemen, this is Miss Sarah Collins.”
Both men removed their hats and smiled. Mr. Duggan was nearly bald and perspiration matted the few hairs left on his head. His bulbous nose made him even less attractive. Mr. Sikes, middle-aged if his graying hair proved an indication, wore a vest with buttons that barely met across a paunchy stomach. There appeared nothing outstanding about his presence other than he carried a carpetbag that reminded Sarah of her own.
“Very nice to meet you both.” She cocked her head and smiled.
Her plans to discuss Jonathan’s behavior over supper would have to be put on hold. She’d hoped to have Maggie as an ally, but with two strangers present, it wasn’t the appropriate time. She excused herself and went downstairs, trying to figure out a way to broach the subject without being alone with him. It might make him defensive but with Maggie in agreement about his unfair treatment of Wolf, then so be it.
* * *
Sarah finished wiping down the sideboard. Supper was over and the dishes washed. The two overnighters had gone up to their room, trailed by Jonathan. She’d thanked him for the flowers but purposely didn’t mention his invitation. Luckily, he hadn’t pressed her.
Maggie sat at the table, taking a well-deserved break and sipping a cup of tea. It seemed a good time to seek the elder woman’s wisdom. Sarah slipped into a chair. “Maggie, what can I do to make Jonathan reconsider trying to outbid Wolf on his land?”
Maggie ran a finger along her chin. “I’ve seen lots of men come and go during all my years of runnin’ this place, and if I’ve learned one thing, it’s that when it comes to business, most males are stubborn. Did you ever own a boy dog?”
The question struck Sarah as odd; she shook her head. “I’ve never had one at all.”
“Well, let me tell you they are notorious for pissin’ on their territory.”
“I’m not sure I understand.” Sarah flashed a raised brow.
“It’s a term some use, but very true. Male dogs are famous for markin’ what belongs to ‘em. It’s just a shame that Jonathan and Wolf both raised their leg on the same spot. Unless your womanly charms work on Mr. Montgomery, I think you’re out of options to change things. Clearly, he has more money than Wolf.”
Sarah covered a gasp, and then lowered her hand. “Maggie, surely you aren’t suggesting….”
“No…no! Of course not! I still believe in morals and not beddin’ a man until he puts a ring on your finger. I thought perhaps spending more time with Jonathan might entice him to see things your way. Only you might consider not ending your next outing with a slap.” Maggie winked at Sarah.
“Did you have to remind me?”
“Just remember why people value bees. It’s for the honey, not the stinger.” Maggie laughed at her own joke.
“My, aren’t you just the town jester tonight.” Sarah chuckled. “First dogs peeing on things and now comparing me to a bee sting, but I think I get it. Being nice is going to get me farther with Jonathan, and perhaps I can get him to mark another piece of acreage.”
Maggie tittered. “Such a quick learner is bound to make a great teacher. We’d better turn in. You have an appointment in the morning and I’ll have hungry men to feed.”
Chapter Twenty-Three
Sarah tossed and turned, tangling herself in the bedcovers. She couldn’t stop her thoughts from drifting to Wolf. Feelings aside, she owed him her life, so if spending time with Jonathan helped repay the debt in some way, she’d do it.
Visions of the upcoming social intermingled with images of Wolf. She envisioned herself in his arms rather than Jonathan’s. Such a silly notion when the town folks barely tolerated Wolf riding by them in the street. They certainly wouldn’t welcome him to a planned event.
Her ‘humph’ sounded in the silence, “And they consider themselves to be the civilized ones,” she mumbled. Despite reality, she drifted off, waltzing amidst the startled stares, held tightly in those strong arms she couldn’t forget no matter how she tried—until bright sunshine pried at her gritty eyes. Had she slept at all?
She sat and stretched into a yawn, fighting the urge to slip back beneath the covers and drift once again into Wolf’s embrace. As much as she loved imagining what could’ve happened between her and her handsome half-breed, she compared her dreams to riding a lame horse—going nowhere. Why did she keep torturing herself?
Suddenly, she recalled her appointed meeting with Judge Lawson about the teaching position and jumped to her feet. Viewing her washstand, she pulled her face into a pucker. She’d forgotten to get fresh water, and Jonathan’s flowers were in what remained from yesterday.
The aroma of frying bacon wafted in the air, making her stomach rumble. She faced a dilemma. She dared not go downstairs clad only in her nightdress, but she had no wrapper to cover herself. There was no way to fill her pitcher unless she dressed first. After all, there were men in the house. Generally one washed up first, but not today.
Driven by hunger, Sarah donned her undergarments, stockings and shoes then pondered her wardrobe. Which dress would be most appropriate to a judge? She elected the brown cotton with waistline piping that came to a vee in front. The full sleeves gathered into crisp white cuffs that matched the collar. The paisley print inset added contrast to the bodice and provided the perfect touch of modesty.
The three flounces of her wide skirt cascaded over her petticoats and draped over her button-top shoes. Sarah stood on tiptoes and surveyed her midsection with a giggle. Styles had certainly changed since her simple cotton housedresses in Hannibal. The flowing skirts definitely enhanced her shape. She spanned her waist with her hands, expecting the fingers on each to meet. If she’d bought that contraption they called a corset, they probably would have, but she settled for a comfortable chemise instead.
If only she’d had enough money for more than one bonnet. Luckily, hers was neutral and suitable with most any color dress. The more prim and proper she looked, the better her chances of impressing the judge. She swatted at an annoying fly. The heat seemed to drive them indoors.
Sarah pulled her hair back into
a simple bun, her heart pounding with excitement. She’d dreamed of this job. Raising her eyes to the ceiling, she sought Divine intervention. “Please, God. I need your help. Just one more time and I’ll...”
Her prayer was interrupted by a knock. She smoothed the sides of her hair one more time, crossed the room, and opened the door. She experienced a little catch in her throat to see Jonathan.
“Sorry to bother you, but Maggie sent me to fetch you. Breakfast is ready and getting cold.” His assessing gaze couldn’t have been more obvious. “My, don’t you look lovely this morning.”
Sarah lowered her eyes. “Thank you.”
“If I might ask, are you going somewhere?”
“Yes, I’m inquiring about a teaching position this morning.”
His eyes widened, as did a smirking smile. “Teaching? I’m not sure I would have matched you with that particular profession.”
She stiffened. “And why not?”
Jonathan sobered. “I didn’t mean to offend you, it’s just that most teachers I recall were… well… homely, for lack of a better word… and rigid. You know what I mean—afraid to laugh and relax? You don’t strike me as the teaching type.”
“And, in your opinion, which kind of employment best suits me?” She adjusted her cuffs and waited.
“Sales, perhaps. I know you could sell me anything.”
Feeling her cheeks heat, Sarah cleared her throat. “Please tell Maggie I’ll be right down.” She closed the door and crossed to the mirror. Staring at her image, she tucked a stray wisp into her bun. “Damnation, that man and his improper insinuations… but perhaps he’s right,” she grumbled, then laughed. “I’m certainly going to have to sell him a load of horse manure if I want to help Wolf.”
Sarah picked up her pitcher, flowers and all, and headed downstairs. She paused on the bottom step and took a deep breath. Sometime today she aimed to tell Jonathan she’d accept his invitation to the social. Despite wanting to experience the event, her palms dampened at the thought of another outing with him. She fixed a smile on her face and sauntered into the kitchen.
Sarah's Heart Page 16