Road to Harmony

by Sherry Kyle

  “It’s time.” Rough hands untied the rope.

  Instead of uncovering her head from the suffocating burlap sack, he gripped her by both shoulders and led her out of the barn. Light filtered through the small holes. Elena was thankful for the slight reprieve from the overwhelming darkness.

  His strong, thick fingers dug into her flesh. “You’re awful scrawny for a man.”

  Elena rolled her eyes at the statement. Her figure was more on the straight side with enough curves to look feminine, but not enough to fill out a dress the way some women could—like Yvette.

  “Step up.” His voice was gruff.

  Dread wormed its way into the pit of her stomach. Where was this man taking her? Did she have enough strength to fight him off and make a run for it?

  She climbed up three stairs on wobbly legs, all the while being held firmly by her attacker. As it was, there was no earthly way she could get free. She might have a chance to fend him off if he ever removed the sack.

  The man stopped her cold and knocked on a door. Her heart beat an unnatural rhythm. Whoever was inside was sure to be as harsh.

  The squeak of a door and a woman’s gasp startled her.

  “Is he ready for me?” Her assailant’s warm breath sent a shiver up Elena’s spine.

  No reply came. Instead she was guided to a room and shoved into a chair.

  “I know who did this to you, boss.”

  Elena’s mouth went dry and her head spun.

  “Who’s under there?”

  Jonas? Elena wasn’t in danger after all. Was Nicolas the man who grabbed her? She considered him a nice man until last night. Of course, he was protecting the Bollinger farm. If she’d spoken up last night, Nicolas might have set her free and she could’ve saved herself the embarrassment of facing Jonas this morning.

  Nicolas stood mere inches from her. “I saw him last night astride his horse facing the house. Thought he was the one who whacked you on the head. I nabbed him down by the creek.”

  Elena was being blamed for hitting Jonas? “Well, I never,” she blurted.

  Her attacker untied the rope and removed the burlap sack. Elena heaved in a big gulp of air as she took in her surroundings. She was not only sitting in the Bollinger house, but in Jonas’s bedroom. Warmth crept up her neck. Would her childhood friend recognize her in her brother’s clothing? She dipped her head.

  “Elena?” Jonas studied her further. “Is that you?”

  She sucked in a breath and let it out slowly, her cover now blown. She might as well face Jonas straight on.

  He sat straight up, the quilt slipping down to his waist exposing the top of his long johns. “Why in heaven’s name are you wearing men’s clothing?”

  “Miss Seifert?” The color drained from Nicolas’s face, his voice a mere whisper. “I captured a woman?”

  “It has been a long night. And I’m awfully tired.” Tears filled Elena’s eyes and threatened to spill over. “My family must be beside themselves.”

  Jonas grabbed the back of his head and gave Nicholas a hard stare. “You mean to tell me that you held Elena captive all night long?” A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.

  Nicolas’s hands shot up. “I didn’t know she was a woman. Look at the way she’s dressed. She didn’t utter a word while she was tied to the post.” Beads of perspiration dotted Nicolas’s upper lip. “I would never consciously manhandle a woman. You’ve got to believe me, boss.”

  Jonas’s expression changed from amusement to concern. “What am I to tell your pa when he finds out you were at my place all night long?” He fell back against the bed and moaned.

  “I’ll think of something. What I was doing last night was my idea and my business. Jonas, I hope you feel better soon.” Elena stood and turned toward Nicolas. “Now, if I can please have my horse back, I’ll be on my way.”

  Nicolas rubbed his brow with the back of his hand. “No, Miss. That won’t do.”

  “What do you mean by that?” Elena shifted her weight to distance herself from Nicolas.

  “Unless you tell me what you were doing out there on the hills, I have a mind to bring you in to see the sheriff. Someone hit Jonas over the head. How do I know it wasn’t you?” Nicolas stepped closer and puffed out his chest.

  “You will do no such thing,” Jonas countered.

  Elena’s face heated and her back stiffened. “You need to learn the ways of these hills, Mister. If Jonas can’t trust me, someone he’s known since he was small, he can’t trust anyone.” She balled her fists.

  Jonas shoved the quilt off to the side and stood. Before she connected a fist to Nicolas’s jaw, he grabbed Elena around the waist capturing both arms. She fought to regain control, but Jonas was still too strong for her even in his weakened state. They tumbled back onto the bed, arms and legs flailing.

  “Nicolas, go to the barn,” Jonas called.

  “Just protecting you, boss.” Nicolas lowered his voice, jammed his hat on his head, and left in a hurry.

  Jonas squirmed and gained the advantage, pinning Elena down on the mattress.

  Gabi walked in. Her hand shot to her mouth, and she let out a laugh that sounded as if it came clear from her toes.

  Elena relaxed. She gazed into Jonas’s eyes and giggled.

  Jonas fell back on the bed next to Elena. “Only you, my dear Elena, would wear men’s clothing, get captured, and be threatened to be taken to the sheriff all in one night’s time.”

  My dear Elena. She loved the way those words rolled off Jonas’s tongue.

  Elena imagined visiting with Jonas and Gabi all day, but she was in enough trouble as it was. She wriggled free and stood to her feet. “I would do anything to take care of my family.” Even marry a man I don’t love.

  “But even you need to know your limitations.” Jonas draped the quilt around his body.

  She shrugged, unrepentant. “It was worth a try.”

  Awareness dawned on Jonas’s face. “You can’t catch a cow thief on your own. Next time, tell your pa where you’re going.” He scooted back in bed and covered his frame with the quilt.

  She’d done a foolish thing. No words came.

  “I’d be delighted to fix you breakfast and help you home.” The sweet sound of Gabi’s voice was like honey in a cup of her favorite tea.

  Elena linked arms with Jonas’s sister. “I’m glad you’re home.”

  Ten minutes later, Elena brought the cup to her lips and savored the liquid and her freedom. “How long are you staying in Harmony Valley?”

  Gabi settled into the seat beside her. “I’m here for only a couple of days.”

  “I’d think Jonas would be pleased to have a woman around.” Elena finished the last bite of her toast.

  “I promised Yvette that I would mind the front desk of the boardinghouse. She’s been having a terrible time trying to manage the customers and her colicky baby.”

  “What about her grandfather?”

  “Since Ma’s taken over the cooking, I’ve seen him only a handful of times.” Gabi lowered her voice. “He takes his meals in his room and ventures out only to go to the post office or the doctor’s.”

  Elena grabbed Samuel’s hat from the bench and set it on her head. “Thank you for the breakfast.”

  Gabi scooted to her feet. “After I see you home, Jonas said I could visit with Dana Cavegn today.” Her eyes held a faraway look.

  “Is it Dana you want to see or Peder? I’ve seen you making mooney eyes at church.”

  “At one time, I had high hopes for Peder and me, but no more.”

  There was more to that story, but Elena didn’t want to pry. Besides, she’d kept her family waiting long enough. As she turned the brass knob on the front door, Nicolas’s large frame filled the doorway, a look of regret covering his face.

  Chapter Seventeen

  “Elena, your horse is missing.” Nicolas removed his hat and ran a hand through his hair. “I put him in the paddock last night with the other horses, but he got out.”r />
  “Starlight is a smart horse. He probably went home.” Elena attempted to move past Nicolas, but he blocked the doorway.

  “I’m sorry for my earlier outburst. If Jonas thinks you’re innocent, then so do I.” He sidestepped to allow her to pass.

  “I accept your apology. Now I must be on my way.”

  “I’ve hitched Jonas’s team to the wagon—”

  “Thank you, Nicolas.” Gabi set her bonnet on her head and tied the ribbons into a neat bow. “After I take Elena home, I’m going to the Cavegn’s place.”

  “When will you be back?” Nicolas cleared his throat. “Jonas is mighty protective.”

  “Like someone else I know.” Elena eyed Nicolas, then stepped onto the front porch and inhaled the crisp spring air. A tangling rosebush grew up the side of the front post providing a wonderful scent.

  Gabi joined her on the front porch, then climbed up into the wagon. “When Jonas wakes, tell him I’ll be home before sundown.” Gabi gave Nicolas a coy smile.

  Some women had a natural ability with men. All Elena’s womanly efforts had never made a bit of difference with Jonas. Yvette’s image came to mind. Now, there was a woman with a womanly figure and natural ability. She would never be mistaken for a man. Elena couldn’t compete with her, nor did she want to. She was engaged, after all, and would marry Lars soon.

  She glanced back toward Jonas’s home. Her heartbeat quickened. She’d spend another night in his barn for the few minutes he held her in his arms and pinned her down on the bed. It wasn’t meant to be a romantic gesture, Elena was well aware of that, but she’d do it all over again to see him look at her with that warm smile and to hear his laughter. Lord, what is wrong with me?

  “Elena? You coming?” Gabi held the reins in her hands.

  “Yes, of course.” Elena climbed into the wagon and plopped down in the seat next to Gabi. “It’s hard to be ladylike in these trousers.”

  Nicolas waved and called out, “I’ll keep my eye out for your horse. It’s the least I could do for nabbing you last night.” He tipped his hat as Gabi flicked the reins.

  The minute Jonas’s team arrived in front of her home, Elena expected her parents and brother to run out and greet them. No one came. She climbed down from the wagon and thanked Gabi for the ride.

  “You’re welcome. I hope you don’t hold what Nicolas did against him.” Gabi’s shoulders drooped. “He’s a nice man and has helped Jonas with the dairy farm since Pa died.”

  “I only have a few bruises,” Elena teased. “Go on now. Dana will be glad to see you.”

  Gabi waved.

  Elena waited until Gabi was out of sight before rushing to the barn. She pulled the large door open. Cattle greeted her lined in neat rows. “Papa? Samuel?” Elena peered in each stall but came up empty handed. She hurried to the house. “Mama?”

  No answer.

  She stepped on the familiar crack in the wood floor. Every muscle and bone in her body ached. She lumbered to her room and spied her bed. A yawn escaped. She stripped out of Samuel’s clothes, leaving them in a pile on the floor, and released her hair from the tight knot. She folded back the quilt and slipped under it.

  Her head felt heavier than a bucket of milk as she rested against her down pillow. A breeze filtered through the opened window and stroked her face as she settled deeper under the covers. Taking a nap wasn’t going to help her find her family, and yet she was of no use without her horse. Dear Lord, what have I done?

  “Yah.” The deep sound of a man’s voice and the pounding of horses’ hooves startled Elena awake. What time was it? Her bedroom was dark. Was it past the supper hour? Her stomach growled. She flipped back her quilt and raced to the window. Papa?

  Elena slipped into her everyday dress and tucked combs into the sides of her hair.

  The front door whipped open, and her father called out her name.

  She entered the family room. “I’m here, Papa.”

  He scooped her up in his arms. “Where have you been, child? We’ve been looking all over for you ... and fearing the worst.”

  “As you can see, I’m fine.” Elena stepped back from his embrace and twirled around for effect.

  Papa cupped her face with both hands. “But that doesn’t answer my question.”

  “What has Samuel told you?” She averted her eyes.

  “We’ll get to Samuel in a moment. I want to hear your side of the story.” The stern look Papa passed her way reminded her of when she was a child caught picking her mother’s prized flowers.

  She shrugged. “I only wanted to help.”

  “Go on.” Papa crossed his arms.

  “Can I make you something to eat?” Elena took a step toward the kitchen, but her father grabbed her hand.

  “Out with it, Elena!”

  “I spent the night in Jonas’s barn.” Her voice quaked.

  “What in heaven’s name were you doing there?” Papa’s face turned a deep shade of red.

  “If you could sit a spell, I’ll tell you the whole story. Right now, I need a cup of tea.” She fled to the kitchen, turned on the faucet, and splashed her face with the cool water. Would he understand? Footsteps sounded on the wood floor—back and forth, back and forth.

  After filling the kettle with water and setting it on the stove to boil, she opened the cabinet and lingered over which teacup to use. Her nerves frayed. Couldn’t her pa show compassion? It was her own fault for blurting she’d spent the night in Jonas’s barn. She placed both hands on her chest and felt the rise and fall of her breath.

  “Elena.” The touch of her father’s hand on her arm caused her to flinch. She glimpsed at him over her shoulder.

  The teakettle whistled. Elena lifted two cups with the pink rose design off the shelf and placed a muslin teabag in each one. She poured the hot water and led the way to the table, a cup in each hand. Her father grabbed a loaf of bread, the butter, and a knife.

  “I promise I won’t get angry,” Papa said. “Please, tell me what happened.”

  After slicing the bread and pouring the tea, Elena explained how she wanted to help scout for cow thieves, ended up on Bollinger property, and how she was held against her will. “It was a case of mistaken identity because I was wearing Samuel’s clothes.”

  She left out the part when Nicolas nabbed her, covered her head with a burlap sack, and left marks on her arms. It would only cause her father undo anger. She also omitted the fact that Starlight was missing, and kept to herself the incident with Jonas on his bed.

  “Where are Mama and Samuel?”

  Pa raised a brow. “In Cayucos.”

  Elena cringed and pressed her eyes shut. “What are they doing there?”

  “Samuel confessed you were scouting for cow thieves around the time we arrived on South Ocean Avenue. We didn’t want to frighten Lars, but needed to know if he’d seen you. He said he hadn’t. Samuel and Ma stayed in case you showed up there, while I headed home. Lars is going to bring them back tomorrow morning for the church service.” Her father’s voice softened, and his mouth drooped into an uncharacteristic grimace. “But your horse—”

  “Papa? Starlight is here. He came home, right?”

  “I found her this afternoon. Her leg was broken. I don’t know how long she’d been lying there.”

  Elena stood from the bench and ran out to the paddock.

  Her father caught up to her, his breath coming out in short bursts.

  Elena clutched the sides of the wood railing. Tears filled her eyes and tumbled down her cheeks. “Where is she, Papa?”

  He came up beside her and gripped her upper arms with his weathered hands. “I had to put her down.”

  The air around her was thick as mud. Her head swirled. Her father had shot her horse, and it was all her fault. “Oh, Papa.” She clung to her father’s shirt. “Please tell me it’s not true.”

  “No, daughter. I can’t. Starlight is gone.”

  After a few moments, her father took a step back. “I’m sorry, Elen
a.” He spoke in hushed tones.

  Her father kissed the top of her head, then headed toward the barn.

  Not only did she endure a difficult night, but her family had as well. She had only been trying to help her family catch the cow thief. How had her plan gone so terribly wrong? She kicked the dirt at her feet. The sooner she married Lars, the better off her family would be.

  Tears cascaded down her cheeks, the truth of Papa’s words hitting her in the heart. Starlight was gone.

  Chapter Eighteen

  “I’m not an invalid.” Jonas took his place at the head of the table.

  Gabi placed a knitted blanket around his shoulders. “You still need more rest and care.”

  “I agree,” Nicolas said. “You should be in bed.”

  Jonas rolled his eyes. Couldn’t they see the improvement he’d made throughout the day? He desired to sleep less and was ready to get back to work. Well, almost. The dizziness wasn’t completely gone, and his head still throbbed.

  Gabi ladled vegetable soup into four bowls. She had brought Dana home with her after stopping at the Seiferts’s place to see if Starlight had returned. It was then that she heard the sad news from a teary-eyed Elena.

  “We need to do something for her.” Gabi handed Nicolas a bowl of soup.

  It bothered Jonas something fierce that Tobias Seifert had to put down Elena’s horse. Jonas remembered years ago when her father gave her the animal. Elena had taken such pride in her father’s gift. She must be hurting something awful. He wanted to head straight over to her house and comfort her, but he’d have a hard time riding his horse in his recuperative state. Besides, it wouldn’t be appropriate.

  Jonas propped his elbow on the table to steady himself. “I’d give Elena one of our horses if I could, but I know she wouldn’t hear of it. We need every horse we own.” Truth is, he’d give Elena a horse in a heartbeat. But would Lars understand the gesture? He might not take too kindly to Jonas’s gift.

  Nicolas picked up his spoon and dipped into his soup. “If I owned a horse, I’d give it to the lady. But I don’t.”

  “Animals get hurt all the time. I wouldn’t go blaming yourselves.” Gabi poured fresh milk into four cups. “I know that may sound harsh, but it was as much Elena’s fault for wearing men’s clothing and riding her horse in the dark of night.”