From Pregnant Widow to Cowboy’s Bride

For widow Louise Porter, a temporary marriage to cowboy Nate Hawkins seems the only solution to protect her unborn child. Especially when she’s threatened by her late husband’s business partner. She needs a safe haven—and Eden Valley Ranch, where Nate works, is supposedly just the place. And yet, in Nate’s care she feels secure and cherished as never before.

The protection of his name is all Nate can offer Louise. He’s not cut out for family life long-term. However, he’ll risk anything to keep Louise safe during their perilous journey. Perhaps an early Christmas arrival will show them both just how precious—and how permanent—their new family can be...

“I’m so sorry. It seems I’m always causing you a problem.”

For some silly reason the words caught in her throat and wobbled.

Nate clasped her shoulders and looked into her face as if searching every corner of her mind. “You are not a problem to me.”

Louise told herself it was only words, perhaps for the benefit of those who couldn’t help but overhear. Despite her arguments to the contrary, she believed him. For the moment, she’d allow herself to be comforted by his admission.

She nodded, the book clutched to her chest.

He reached past her to get the title he’d chosen, and they returned to the table to sit side by side.

She read the words and turned the pages, but couldn’t have said what the story entailed. Her thoughts wouldn’t settle. It was merely worry, she told herself, about getting to Eden Valley Ranch before the baby came. Concern for the safety of the little life she carried. But in a moment of honesty she admitted that her predominant thought centered on Nate. Why was he being so nice to her? Treating her as though he really cared when they both knew he was only doing this out of a sense of obligation.

LINDA FORD lives on a ranch in Alberta, Canada, near enough to the Rocky Mountains that she can enjoy them on a daily basis. She and her husband raised fourteen children—four homemade, ten adopted. She currently shares her home and life with her husband, a grown son, a live-in paraplegic client and a continual (and welcome) stream of kids, kids-in-law, grandkids, and assorted friends and relatives.

A Baby for Christmas

Linda Ford

www.millsandboon.co.uk

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.

—Isaiah 9:6

To Christine, my day-after-Christmas baby.

You have brought much joy into our lives

and continue to do so.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

About the Author

Title Page

Bible Verse

Dedication

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Epilogue

Dear Reader

Extract

Copyright

Chapter One

December 1882

Twenty-year-old Louise Porter cupped her hands to her rounded belly. How was she to protect this baby, as well as herself and her eighteen-year-old sister-in-law? Where could she go? Where could she find help?

No answer came to mind, but she must get away from that vile man who grew bolder and bolder with his threats and advances.

She turned the corner. Without thought, she’d walked toward the church. Head down, watching her footing carefully on the rough ground, she made her way toward the spot where they’d buried her husband six months ago.

Not until she was almost there did she look up and nearly fell backward. Nate Hawkins stood at Gordie’s graveside. She’d gotten a fleeting glimpse of him last year on his annual visit to his mother, but still she stared at him, taking in his rumpled dark blond hair and his blue eyes that always made her feel as if he pinned her to the spot where she stood. He’d filled out in the three years since he left, but he was still tall and slim. His muscular body spoke of hard work and strength.

“Nate, I never expected to see you.” Too late she thought to pull her shawl closed to hide her belly.

Nate held his hat in his hand. “I had to come say goodbye to Gordie.” His gaze skittered to her stomach and away. “You married again?”

“Hardly. This is Gordie’s baby.”

“Oh.” He shifted from foot to foot. “Don’t know if I should say sorry or congratulations.”

“Don’t say anything.” She wouldn’t tell him that she struggled with similar feelings. A baby to bring up on her own presented challenges. Some she dreaded, but that didn’t mean she didn’t look forward to welcoming the little one. “I’ll leave you to say your goodbye.” She turned back the way she’d come.

“Wait. Don’t let me chase you away.”

“I can come back anytime.” She continued on her way, not slowing until she knew she was out of his sight. Then she paused to catch her breath. It was getting harder and harder to move about with her growing size. She patted her tummy as the baby kicked up a storm. “Not much longer, little one,” she murmured. She expected the baby would be born Christmas Day. A Christmas baby. Her heart swelled with anticipated joy.

Her gaze turned over her shoulder, though she wouldn’t be able to see Nate. He’d been Gordie’s best friend. Hers, too.

In the past, both she and Nate had found a warm welcome in the Porter home along with the Porter children—Gordie and Missy. Nate and Louise had had their own homes, but in her case it had been unwelcoming and Nate had been mostly alone in his, so they’d spent all their free time with the Porters.

Louise’s mother had left when she was little and her father had raised her on his own, usually in mining camps. When she turned thirteen and he noticed how the men began to stare at her, he had sent her to live with Aunt Bea here in Rocky Creek, Montana. Aunt Bea was...well, she didn’t care to make any effort on Louise’s behalf and was openly grateful that Louise spent so much time at the Porters’.

At first, Louise resented her father for sending her away, then, after she’d fallen in with Nate and the Porter family, she secretly thanked him. It was the best thing that could have happened to her. The Porters were a loving, supportive family, and Nate...well, she was more than half in love with him from the first glimpse. Puppy love only, of course.

Her idyllic life had crashed to a halt four years ago when the Porter parents were killed in a senseless accident. Their team of horses had spooked and before Mr. Porter could get the animals under control, the wagon flipped, killing them both.

Gordie was not yet eighteen and suddenly had to be the man of the house and look after Missy, his sister, only thirteen years old at the time. He resented the responsibility and the endless work. A man who hovered at the outskirts of the town’s polite populace, Vic Hector, ten years older and worldly wise, had offered Gordie easier ways to make money than carrying freight and goods around for people. Most of the ways bordered on illegal. Slowly Vic and Gordie had grown more and more uncaring about staying within the bounds of the law.

That wasn’t all that was despicable about Vic, though Louise seemed to be the only one who saw how he eyed Missy and how, when he thought no one was looking, he bothered her as if he had some claim to her.

After the Porters’ deaths, Nate had decided to move on and had tried to convince the trio to leave with him. When Gordie refused, Louise knew she, too, must stay and watch out for Missy.

Besides, Louise couldn’t leave the only place and the only people who had ever made her feel welcome. If Nate had stuck around, perhaps he could have made Gordie realize how evil Vic was, but Nate had left them to manage on their own. He’d gone on to build his own life. A carefree one, according to his mother.

Louise had put behind her any thought that Nate had cared about her.

A year and a half ago, she’d married Gordie. She loved him in her own way, perhaps because he was a Porter. But it also gave her the hope of watching over Missy and maybe changing the direction of Gordie’s life.

Oh, how she’d failed.

She waited for the tangle of anger, frustration and helplessness to unravel inside her chest. Gordie had not changed. He’d been shot to death. No one had ever been held accountable, but she suspected Vic had shot Gordie. Perhaps her husband had finally stood up to Vic and paid the ultimate price.

Since Gordie’s death, Vic had grown increasingly persistent, threatening even. She rubbed the spot on her arm where he had grabbed her and held her tight just a few hours ago.

“Soon as that baby is born, I got me a job to do.” He’d pressed his face close to hers and held her so she couldn’t back away. “After all, Gordie and I was partners. He’d expect me to take care of his wife and little sister.” As he spoke, spittle sprayed from his teeth.

She pushed aside the memory and hurried on. She had to get away. But where? Her father had already refused to have her. He said he was close to finding a rich gold strike. Besides, the tent he lived in was no place for a baby.

What was she to do?

On her way home Louise slowed her steps and recaptured her breath. Oh, to have this baby and be again able to move about as easily as she once had. A few minutes later she arrived at the Porter house—her home since marrying Gordie. If she’d hoped to again know the warmth she’d experienced there when his parents were alive, she’d soon learned it wouldn’t happen. The happy home she’d grown to expect with the Porters had died along with them. As she reached for the doorknob, she heard Missy’s voice raised in protest.

“Get away from me.”

Anger filling her with fresh energy, Louise pushed the door open.

She’d thought Missy safe because Vic was supposed to be gone for the day. But now he had Missy in a corner, his body pressed to hers as Missy tried vainly to fend him off.

“Leave her alone.” Louise grabbed the closest weapon, the broom, and beat on Vic.

He released Missy to cover his head against Louise’s blows. One hand snaked out and wrenched the broom from her.

“You will soon enough discover that you belong to me. Both of you. By the way, I’m moving in so’s I can keep an eye on my property.” Muttering under his breath, he slammed the door behind him as he left the house.

Louise stared at his belongings stacked against the wall. She’d toss them all out into the yard except it wouldn’t stop him. He wasn’t a man to take no for an answer.

Missy fell into Louise’s arms. “That man makes me feel dirty both inside and out.”

Louise rubbed Missy’s back. “I know. But don’t worry. I’ll find a way to make sure he doesn’t bother us.”

But how would she succeed in keeping her promise?

* * *

Twenty-one-year-old Nate Hawkins, known as Slim at Eden Valley Ranch where he now lived and worked, spent a few minutes at his friend’s grave. “Gordie, I’m sorry I couldn’t make it for your funeral.” To this day, he missed his friend. Things used to be so good between them. Until Gordie’s parents died and Vic entered the picture. Nate had tried to make Gordie see the foolishness of his ways, but Gordie had ignored his warnings.

After that, everything had changed.

Things always changed. His father had died when Nate was eight and Ma had moved them to Rocky Creek so she could find work to support them. She was gone long hours, so he barely saw her and had to take care of himself. He’d found a place of refuge with Gordie and his family. Louise had become part of that group when she moved in with her aunt Bea. In Nate’s mind, she’d become the sunshine of the group.

And now Gordie was gone. And Louise’s sunshine had turned from him.

Nothing lasted forever. Only land, he’d decided, was permanent. Which was why he had his heart set on owning a ranch.

“Goodbye, old friend.” He waited until he was back on the street to put his hat on. He returned home—his ma’s home, at least.

A smile curved his mouth as he thought of the home he had his eye on. A small ranch across the border in Alberta not far from Eden Valley Ranch. There he’d build a secure place of his own.

“Did you say you had a leak in your roof?” he said to Ma. He didn’t wait for her reply before he grabbed a hammer and ladder and climbed up to begin repairs.

He inserted new shingles and pounded in nails.

“Nate.”

He’d know that voice anywhere. Louise. Once they’d been close, but now that, too, had changed.

He’d moved on and had plans of his own. She’d stayed, married Gordie and now carried his child. She’d succeeded in holding on to the Porter family and name.

Slowly he turned to stare down at her. From this perspective, she seemed tiny and vulnerable. He half snorted. Louise had never been vulnerable. She’d always kept up with Gordie and Nate in whatever they’d tackled.

She tipped her head up, shielding her eyes from the glare. He knew their color without seeing them. Brown and challenging. Bold and demanding.

“I need to talk to you.”

He backed down the ladder and faced her. “What can I do for you?”

“How long are you staying to visit your mother?”

He blinked. An odd question from a gal who’d made it clear three years ago that she didn’t care if he went as far north as he could ride. He’d harbored a hope she would accompany him, but she’d quickly made him understand he would do well to pin his hopes in a different direction. And he had, though it had taken a bit of effort. But now his hopes lay in getting his own ranch. His own land.

“I’m not staying long. A few days at the most. I need to get back and take care of some business.” While out riding the herd for Eddie, owner of the Eden Valley spread, Nate had come across an empty log cabin in a pretty little valley. He’d asked about it and learned it belonged to a mountain man who had once tried ranching but found he didn’t care for it. Nate hoped to catch him when he made his regular trek to town to send Christmas presents to his grown daughter. He’d learned the man only stayed long enough to visit an old friend who ran the livery barn. Nate had left a message with Rufus at the livery barn that he wanted to speak to Mountain Man Mike about buying the little ranch he had abandoned. Rufus had warned him Mike only stayed a few days. Nate couldn’t afford to miss him.

“Take us with you. Me and Missy.” The words tumbled from Louise’s mouth. She ducked her head as if it hurt her pride to make the request, then lifted her gaze to his, and he felt her demand clear to his toes. And something more he couldn’t identify and didn’t try as his heart leaped at the possibility. Then reality pointed out the facts.

“Don’t see how that’s possible. I have one horse. You’re in the family way and I’m in a hurry. I have to be back by Christmas to see a man who has a little ranch I intend to buy.”

“We could ride the stagecoach.”

He shrugged. “Fine. Go ahead. It’s none of my business who rides it.”

“It’s not that simple. I don’t want to travel alone with Missy.”

Nate leaned into his heels. Not too many years ago he would have welcomed her request and taken her with him. There was a time he’d do almost anything she asked of him and had enjoyed pleasing her, but that time was long gone. She’d made her choice. He’d moved on, started a new life elsewhere. There was no going back.

She ducked her head again and studied her fingers.

He looked at them, too. Saw they were white from her clutching them together. She was hiding something.

“What’s going on, Louise?”

“Vic.”

That’s it? Nate had never cared for the man, but it seemed the others found him...what? Certainly not charming. He had all the appeal of a snake. Nate shook his head. He had never been able to understand why Louise had hung around the man. At least not until she and Gordie had married. Then it made sense.

He hated even thinking of Louise married to Gordie. But there was no denying she’d had special feelings for Nate’s best friend. As much as it hurt, Nate had never let his romantic feelings toward Louise stand in the way of his two friends. Good thing he’d left when he did.

“What about Vic?” he asked her.

“He’s...well, he’s getting bothersome.”

“In what way?” Surely now that Gordie was dead, the man had sought out another partner to do his bidding.

She wobbled her hands in a gesture that told him nothing. “Your mother says the lady at Eden Valley Ranch welcomes people who are in need of a place to stay. All I’m asking is you accompany us there, then I promise we won’t bother you again.”

“Louise, it’s a weeklong trip. We have to stay overnight in some very tight quarters.” He waited for her to realize what he meant and knew she did when pink stained her cheeks. “It wouldn’t be appropriate for us to travel together that far, that long.” He studied her heightened color. Even heavy with child and looking weary, she was a beautiful woman.

He’d like to help her, but her plan put both Louise’s and Missy’s reputation at stake. Something he wouldn’t do. “You need to think of something better than this.”

* * *

Louise should have known better than to expect Nate to help. Years ago he’d ridden from her life just when she’d needed someone.

Turning away, she did her best to hasten off, even though her bulk turned her hurry into an awkward waddle. He’d encouraged her to come up with a better plan? She’d do exactly that. He’d suggested she buy stagecoach tickets for herself and Missy, and she would. She’d find her way to Eden Valley Ranch with or without his help.

She returned to Aunt Bea’s house where she’d taken Missy once Vic had revealed his plan to move into the Porter home. When they arrived, her aunt had inquired as to the duration of their visit.

“We won’t stay long,” Louise had soothed.

Aunt Bea’s handkerchief had fluttered vigorously, a sure sign of her displeasure. “I thought when you married that young Porter you’d moved out. Into your own home,” she’d added, as if realizing how unwelcoming she sounded.

Louise had thought so, too. In fact, about all she’d ever wanted in life was a home where she could belong. But things had changed. Vic had seen to that. Now she didn’t know what she wanted. There was only one thing she was certain of. Whatever she hoped to achieve, she would have to do it on her own. No point in thinking she could count on anyone to help.

“Can I get you some tea?” Louise asked her aunt. “Or would you like me to prepare supper?”

“You’ll be staying?” Aunt Bea’s hands fell to her lap.

“We won’t be any bother.” In fact, she’d clean the house thoroughly and bake up some goodies. Aunt Bea never seemed to get around to either anymore. Not that she ever had, preferring to spend her time reading dusty old books or knitting an endless supply of blankets, scarves and thick mittens. At least Louise had never suffered from cold hands in the winter.

Aunt Bea waved toward the kitchen. “Tea would be nice.”

Louise crossed to the door. “Missy, you can help me.”

Missy rose to her feet quickly and almost plowed over Louise in her haste to escape Aunt Bea.

Louise chuckled. “She won’t bite.”

Missy leaned forward to whisper, “She scares me half to death.”

“She isn’t half as scary as Vic.”

Missy shuddered. “What are we going to do? We can’t hide here very long. Vic knows where we are.”

“I have a plan. In the meantime, let’s make Aunt Bea some tea and then we’re going to clean this mess.” How did her aunt survive amidst all the dirty dishes and the sticky floor?

Missy hustled about, filling the kettle with water, finding the teapot and tea leaves. Perhaps she was eager to put her mind to something besides where they were going to live. “So what’s your plan?” she asked.

Louise considered what to say to her sister-in-law. If she revealed too much and Vic got hold of Missy, the girl might inadvertently say more than she should. “I need to work out a few details and then I’ll tell you.”

Missy gave her a long look. “One of these days you’ll realize I’m no longer a child.”

Louise patted her back. Missy was right. She’d turned eighteen two months ago, and was now a young woman. “I already do, but you can’t blame me for wanting to take care of you.”

Missy started sorting through the soiled dishes, preparing to wash them.

Louise waited, knowing something more troubled her.

Finally, Missy grabbed a dish towel, wiped her hands and turned to face Louise. “That house is the only home I’ve ever known.”

“I know.” There seemed no value in pointing out she’d had a home longer than Louise had ever had, as well as the surety of being wanted. The young girl had experienced loss, too, and life hadn’t been easy for her, either. “But do you think we can get Vic to leave?”

Missy shook her head, sending strands of her blond hair across her cheeks. She had always been a beautiful, almost ethereal-looking child and had matured into a young woman who drew glances wherever she went. From his first look at Missy, Vic had wanted to claim her as his own.

Why he wanted Louise defied logic. Probably just to prove he could. Seemed the man always had to get what others had. Or what they said he couldn’t have.

When it was steeped, they took the tea to Aunt Bea. There wasn’t a biscuit or cookie or even a heel of bread in the house.

“Let’s surprise Aunt Bea by making her a supper she won’t forget,” Louise said. “But first, let’s clean the kitchen.”

They washed dishes until they both had prune-like fingers.

“I’ll do the floor,” Missy insisted. “You need to take it easy.”

Louise wouldn’t admit it, but her back ached and she was weary clear through. Too weary to make her way to the stagecoach office. She sighed. Her plans would have to wait until tomorrow.

“Thank you. I’ll prepare the vegetables while you do the floor.” She sat at the table to work, grateful for a chance to rest her feet. But when her gaze went to the window and she saw Vic loitering in the alley beyond the yard, her weariness vanished. Right then and there she knew what she had to do. She wouldn’t say anything about his presence for fear of alarming the others, but she’d be sure to lock the house tightly tonight and sleep with a poker beside her bed.

* * *

After breakfast the next morning, Louise announced she had business to attend to. “Missy, you stay here and keep the doors locked.”

“Why?” Missy asked. Then, as if she realized the reason, she took a step toward the window.

Louise caught her arm and stopped her. “He’s been there a while. Don’t give him the satisfaction of letting him know we know.”

“He’ll follow you.”

“I’ve thought of that. And I have a plan. Why don’t you open the back door and toss the dishwater out. He’ll be watching you and I’ll slip out the front door. He won’t even know.” Please, God, make me invisible to him.

“Be sure and lock up after I leave.” She waited until Missy opened the back door, then slipped out the front and hurried down the street toward the heart of town, going directly to the stagecoach office.

“How do I get to Eden Valley Ranch?”

The bespectacled man behind the wicket stared at her. “Guess I’d have to know where it was before I could tell you that, ma’am.”

She racked her brain. Had Mrs. Hawkins ever said the name of the nearest town when she’d spoken of the ranch on which her son worked? Yes. It came in a flash and brought a relieved sigh. “Edendale in Alberta, Canada.”

The man tipped his nose as he studied a map on the wall to the side of the wicket. Then he brought his gaze back to her. “Well, ma’am, that’s a mighty long ways off. This here stage will take you as far as Fort Macleod, but, ma’am, it’s a long journey, especially for someone in your—” He turned so red his skin must have burned, and he didn’t finish.

“In my condition. Yes. Yes. But isn’t that up to me to decide?”

The color had begun to fade on the man’s cheeks, but again intensified.

“How much will it cost?” she asked. “And when does the stage depart?”

“I can sell you a ticket to Fort Macleod. After that, you’ll have to buy another to Edendale.” He named a sum that made Louise cringe.

“The next stage leaves tomorrow. Early.” He looked at Louise as if he thought getting up early was impossible in her condition.

“Fine. Thank you.”

She left the station and headed for the bank. Within minutes she had withdrawn enough money to buy the tickets in the morning, see them both safely to their destination and perhaps even to start a new life north of here. For a moment, her heart stalled at the idea of leaving behind the only place she’d ever felt she belonged. Perhaps she should appeal to the marshal to remove Vic from the Porter house.

Even before she finished the thought, she knew her wish was futile. Vic cared nothing for what the law demanded.

She had no choice but to proceed with her plan, and she left the bank to go back to Aunt Bea’s house. She turned the corner at the end of the block and ground to a halt as Vic stepped directly into her path.

“Thought you could get away, did ya? I wasn’t born yesterday.”

Holding in her fear, she replied evenly, “I was taking care of a few chores.”

“In the stagecoach station?” He chortled. “You thinking of taking a trip?”

She refused to answer.

“You get on that stage and I’ll follow you. I’ll bring you back. You will never get away from me. Not you nor Gordie’s sweet little sister.” He smiled benignly lest anyone be watching, but his words carried enough venom to make her skin crawl.

“I’ll tell everyone we don’t want to go with you.”

“No one will listen when I tell them yer my wife.” His eyebrows waggled in mockery.

She didn’t respond. He’d do it so convincingly, everyone would believe him and see her as a rebellious wife. Some would even cheer him for coming after her. She unconsciously pressed her hands to her belly.

His gaze followed. “Seems that kid ought to be born any day now. I got plans for it.”

“Plans?” What right did he have to make plans for her baby?

“Yup. Got a friend who knows people who will pay a lot of money for a baby.”

She staggered back as if he’d hit her. Threatening her was one thing, but threatening her baby was quite another. She began to tremble.

Giving her a smile, Vic touched the brim of his hat as if he were a mannered gentleman. “Nice talking to ya.” Anyone watching would think they’d had a friendly little chat.

They would be wrong.

Her insides rolled and tossed.

She breathed deeply, determined she would not be sick in public.

How was she to get away? How was she to make sure he didn’t follow her and bring her back as his “wife”?

She could think of one thing that would stop Vic. Now all she had to do was make Nate see the reasonableness of it.

* * *

Nate remained in the alley. Vic and Louise hadn’t seen him and he didn’t want them to. Especially Vic.

His opinion of the man had never been a secret and it had been reinforced yet again. The man was a danger to all decent folk.

Nate had been close enough to see the expression on both Vic’s and Louise’s faces, and to overhear enough words to know Vic had threatened her, then threatened to sell her baby. His fists balled. This must surely be the reason for her wanting to leave. It explained why she’d used but one word to explain her fear—Vic.

Nate turned back toward his mother’s house, having completely forgotten the errand that brought him into town.

Still seething, he burst into the house. But he jerked to a stop when he saw who was there.

“Louise?” She sat at the table facing his ma. “What are you doing here?”

Ma tsked. “I’m sure you don’t mean to sound so unwelcoming. She said she wanted to talk to you.”

Louise nodded. “There’s something I want to say.”

Ma got to her feet. “I’ll leave you two to deal with whatever it is that’s bothering the both of you.” She made for the door. “It’s hard to believe that you were once eager to spend time together.” The door closed behind her, shutting out her words and her opinion.

Nate sank to the chair she’d vacated. Ma was right. There had been such a time. “Things change,” he said. He had no desire to go back.

Louise liked to cling to what had once been, but wouldn’t she soon have a baby? Didn’t that mean she had to plan for the future?

He was about to say he’d seen her with Vic, when she leaned forward and started to talk.

“I want to leave. Go to Eden Valley Ranch.”

He nodded. Would have said he thought it a good idea but she didn’t give him an opportunity.

“I obviously can’t ride a horse all that way. In my condition. I can buy us tickets on the stagecoach,” she said. “I already made inquiries.”

“Good.”

“But—” Her head jerked up and her fierce gaze left him speechless. She had something in mind and she meant to get it done. She lowered her gaze, enabling him to release his breath. She studied the top of the table. “If Missy and I try to go alone, I fear Vic will stop us.” She lifted her head, her eyes this time filled with what he could only say was a mixture of sorrow and fear. She shuddered.

He knew she had every right to be afraid of Vic. The man would stop at nothing to get what he wanted. He wished he could offer her escape, but he didn’t see how he could.

“What I need,” she continued, her voice strong and steady, “is a man to protect us.”

He knew from the look in her eyes she meant him. But they’d already had this discussion. Accompanying her would get her away from Vic, but it would ruin both the women’s reputations. Even a widow’s expecting a child.

He wished he could protect Missy and Louise. But what could he do?

“Louise, I’ve already told you I can’t—”

She cut him off with a wave of her hand. “I have the perfect solution.” She straightened in the chair and drew in a long breath. “You and I can get married.”

“Married?” No other word came to his mind.

“Marry me and take us to Eden Valley Ranch.”

“Marry?” Still he was capable of saying nothing else.

Her eyes narrowed. “This is the Porters’ grandchild. Gordie’s child. Doesn’t that mean anything to you? After all they did for us? They gave us a family when our own were too busy.”

She was right, but he needed to see Mountain Mike and buy his ranch. The thought of his land seemed to ground him and allowed him to think sanely again. “But the place I’m looking to buy has only a tiny cabin. Only big enough for a man. Not two women and a baby.” Then again, if a man and a woman loved each other, the small quarters wouldn’t be a problem. A persistent hope sprang to his mind.

“I’m only suggesting a pretend marriage until we get there. Then we can have it annulled.” She widened her eyes as tears glistened in them.

A pretend marriage? Was such a thing possible?

“Must you look so shocked? Am I so unappealing?”

He managed to shake his head. Seemed the power of speech had abandoned him again. Then, seeing how she struggled to keep the pooling tears from overflowing, he started to reach for her hands. He stopped himself because he had no right. “Marriage isn’t like buying a ticket for the stagecoach. It’s a lifetime commitment.”

Her eyes pinned him with dark fierceness. “Only real marriages are forever. You don’t love me. I don’t love you. We both know it’s not for real.”

Her words scraped through his insides. A person couldn’t be much clearer than that about their feelings. Even knowing she was only asking to use him, he considered her request. Marriage gave him the right to tell Vic to leave Louise and Missy alone. He could protect her, get her to safety.

He nodded. “Very well. Let’s get married.”

She blinked and then blinked again. “Really?”

“You heard me.”

She sprang to her feet and rushed to his side to hug him. “Thank you. Thank you. You will not regret this. I promise.”

He hoped not. But already doubts had sprung from the corners of his mind. How could he pretend to do something that, a long time ago, he’d dreamed of?

Chapter Two

Louise returned to her chair and studied Nate. He’d said yes without much of an argument. Why was he so agreeable? But she wasn’t about to guess at his reasons so long as he got them safely to their destination.

A fear clawed at her brain. He was in a hurry. Would he escort them all the way or leave them in some little way station to fend for themselves? After all, he was good at leaving. Seemed all the important men in her life were. Though Pa had made her be the one to leave, and Gordie and his parents had died. Each case was different, yet in her heart she viewed them the same. She’d been left before, so it wouldn’t surprise her if it happened again. Best she could do was be prepared for it.

She pressed her palms to her stomach. The funds she had would not last long and she’d have a new baby to care for besides watching over Missy. Resolve flooded her being. She could and would take care of herself. Had been since she could remember. Pa had expected it. When it got too much for him, he’d shipped her off to Aunt Bea, who likewise made it clear she didn’t care to bother with Louise. Only while the Porter parents lived had she found the sort of welcome she longed for. But Eden Valley Ranch promised refuge while she sorted her life out and decided what to do next.

Would she be refused refuge at the ranch for making a mockery of the wedding vows?

Please, God, just let us get away from Vic, then I’ll manage somehow. With or without Nate. Doubt again tugged at her heart. Would God refuse to help her because she meant to be untruthful about the wedding vows? As always, when doubts flared, she reminded herself of all that the Porters had taught her about God’s love and faithfulness. Surely God would understand, given the circumstances.

She realized she still gawked at him. “What now?” she asked.

He laughed, his blue eyes flashing with amusement. “This was your idea. Shouldn’t you be the one with things figured out?” Their gazes locked, just as their futures were soon to be bound together for a short time.

She jerked her attention to a worn spot on the table. “It’s a rather new idea and I hadn’t given the particulars much thought.” She paused a moment. “The stage leaves tomorrow.” After another hesitant beat, she added, “Early.”

“Then I suggest you get on with your wedding plans.” His eyes still twinkled.

“I think you’re enjoying my discomfort.”

He sobered. “No. But you must admit, it is a little amusing. A spur-of-the-moment wedding. The bride—” His gaze darted to her belly and he chuckled. “Some would think this is a shotgun wedding.”

Heat rushed up her neck, but she would not turn from giving him a steady look. “It’s Gordie’s baby. I don’t expect you to take care of it.”

His smile turned into a scowl. “Of course.” His gaze went beyond her and grew distant.

She wondered what he was seeing. Maybe someday she’d feel comfortable enough to ask. Right now all that mattered was he’d given his word and they were to be married. All she wanted from this relationship was to get away from Vic and gain safety for herself, her baby and Missy.

She didn’t expect anything more from him.

Nate got to his feet. “Seems we have a wedding to arrange. Why don’t I take you to Aunt Bea’s and you can tell her your plans.” He held out a hand to help her to her feet.

She might have refused, but it was getting harder and harder to get up gracefully.

He squinted at her. “When is this baby due?”

She understood the question he meant to ask. Was she going to deliver on the journey? Please, God, let me go a little longer. One week until they reached their destination. One week of pretend marriage and then the joy of her little son or daughter. She couldn’t think of a better Christmas present.

To Nate she gave a dismissive shrug. “Not for a while.”

His eyebrows rose. Then he let the subject go and opened the door his mother had closed a short time ago. “Ma, I’m taking Louise home. I’ll be back in a bit.”

They left the house and went to Aunt Bea’s house, pausing outside the door.

“I’ll wait until you inform her, then take you to your house,” Nate said.

“That won’t be necessary. Missy and I took what we needed when we left yesterday.”

He caught her shoulder and brought her around to face him. “You’ve left your house? Why?”

“Because Vic moved in.” The words were soft, disguising the anger that burned through her at being forced from her own home.

Nate dropped his hand from her shoulder and pushed a fist into his palm. “The louse.”

“Snake,” she corrected. “He’s a slithering snake.”

“You won’t have to worry about him much longer. Marriage will protect you. Listen, it’s best if no one knows it’s only pretend. Vic might see that as an opportunity.”

“Agreed.”

“Let’s go tell your aunt.”

She knocked. “I told Missy to bar the door when I left.”

Nate’s fists balled at his sides. “That will end before the day is out. He won’t bother you any longer.”

Good to know. Whatever lay ahead of sorrow or joy, she would at least be free of Vic.

Missy opened the door and Louise slipped in with Nate at her side. She welcomed his support. “I have good news,” she said, including Aunt Bea, who sat in her customary upholstered chair. “Nate and I are getting married.” Before either of the women could speak, she rushed on. “Missy and I will go north with him.”

“We’ll be safe?” Missy asked.

“We’ll be safe.” Louise patted Missy’s arm as the girl let out a long gust of air.

“Well, I hate to see you go.” Aunt Bea sounded as if it couldn’t be too soon to suit her. “When are you planning to marry him?”

“Today.” At the stunned look on Missy’s face, she choked back a giggle. Aunt Bea’s eyes widened. Louise tried to think if she’d ever surprised her aunt before.

If so, she couldn’t remember it.

Aunt Bea managed to get to her feet in record time. “Today? There is much to do to get ready.”

Louise could think of nothing except the need to sign a document. But if Aunt Bea, with her unbending opinions of proper conduct, knew it was to be a temporary marriage, she would likely raise enough objections to create a stir, maybe even persuade the preacher to refuse to marry them.

“I’ll go see to the details,” Nate said. “Lock up behind me.” He hurried out the door.

Louise turned the key, then faced Aunt Bea. “Tell me what I need to do.”

* * *

Nate stood outside until he heard the key turn, then tested the knob. The lock held and he strode away as fast as his legs would take him. His insides burned with fury.

Vic had moved into the Porter house? Seemed he thought he owned the house and the family. Well, the family would be leaving. The family would say goodbye to their home and learn, as he had, that nothing lasts.

Not even marriage, it seemed. What they planned was only pretend. A convenience. He pushed aside the guilt stinging his thoughts.

So far as he could tell, nothing was forever, but at least he could get Missy and Louise and Gordie’s unborn baby away from Vic.

He stepped into Ma’s house. She stood at the stove, tending a pot of something that smelled mighty fine. “Making soup?”

“Cream of potato. Thought I’d make your favorite while you’re here.”

“Ma, sit down. I need to talk to you.”

She pushed the pot to the side of the stove and pulled out a chair to sit. “That sounds like a warning.”

He didn’t know what he’d call it. Nor how to explain what he meant to do except to come right out and say it. “Ma, Louise and I are getting married.”

“Good.” She patted his hand. “I’ve always thought you two were suited to each other.”

“You did? But she married Gordie.”

“She was hurt and confused. The poor girl had lost so much and was trying to recapture it.”

He stared at his ma. “How do you know all this?”

“I’m a mother, even though I haven’t been the kind I wanted to be.” Her eyes looked past him into the distance. “If only your father hadn’t died.” She shook her head. “So you’ll be staying around a few months? That’s good.”

Let her believe this marriage was for real. The more who thought that, the better for them. “No, I’m leaving tomorrow.”

“I see. When will you come back for the wedding?”

“We’re getting married today. As soon as I can make arrangements.”

Ma stared at him, her hands limp in her lap. “Today?” Her voice squeaked. “That hardly seems—”

“Proper?” He knew many would think the same, but he didn’t care what anyone thought except perhaps Ma.

“No. It hardly seems enough time to plan a wedding.”

“How long does it take to find the preacher, say the vows and sign the papers?” Vows. He’d be vowing before God and man to stay with her until death parted them. God did not take lightly a man making vows, then breaking them.

“Are you sure about this?” Ma asked.

No, he wasn’t sure. At least not about pretending the vows. But he was sure about the reason for it. “I can’t leave them here.” He explained the way Vic treated Louise and Missy, and hoped she agreed the wedding had to be immediate.

“That’s very noble, son, but it hardly seems enough reason to marry.”

Likely it didn’t to anyone but himself and Louise. “We’re of a like mind.” Their reasons were enough to satisfy him. “I’m going to buy a ranch and it will be nice to have a home and family, too.” His insides coiled at purposely leading her to believe forever was part of their plan. He’d told her of the place he hoped to purchase. His journey home would be slowed by having to accompany Louise on the stagecoach. He wouldn’t have any time to spare if he hoped to get back to Edendale in time to meet the mountain man. “You could come too, Ma.”

“Thank you, but no. This is my home. I’m too old to start over again.” She wiped a tear from the corner of her eye.

“You’re thinking of Pa, aren’t you?” Nate could barely recall his father. A man who laughed a lot, roughhoused with Nate and kissed Ma often.

“I never got over him. You are so much like him.”

“In what way?” It seemed important to know, seeing as he was soon to become a husband, if only for a week.

“You look like him. He wasn’t much older than you are now when he died. You are like him in other ways, too. He was ready and willing to help those who needed it.” Nate knew the story. He’d been killed helping a neighbor put up a barn. A beam had fallen and crushed him.

His mother stood up. “But enough of that. I need to get ready for a wedding.” She was halfway out of the kitchen before she stopped. “Help yourself to the soup.”

“Yes, Ma.” He didn’t have time to eat. There were details to take care of now.

“Make sure you eat. The day will be even busier as it goes along.”

When he didn’t move, she hustled to the stove, filled a bowl and set it before him. “Eat.” She waited until he put a spoonful in his mouth.

“Mmm. Good.”

“Now I must get ready. Will you come and get me when it’s time?”

“Yes, I will.” He ate the soup hurriedly, then trotted over to the house next to the church where he found the good preacher. A man he hadn’t met before who introduced himself as Pastor Manly.

Nate took that to be his name, certainly not a description. The pastor was slight, pale and fidgety.

Nate explained he wanted to get married. “This afternoon.”

“Fine. Fine. Bring your bride here.” The man had thin white hair. Its thinness likely not helped by the way he ran his fingers through it.

“Is there some reason we have to get married here?” Perhaps there was some law saying where people could wed.

“It’s convenient.”

“Could you marry us at Miss Williams’s house?” he asked, naming Aunt Bea.

Did the pastor blush? He certainly tapped the tips of his fingers together rapidly. “Yes, yes. What time?”

He hadn’t asked Louise what time suited her. He’d have to guess. “Would five o’clock suit?”

“It will be fine. You will need two witnesses of legal age.”

“Miss Williams and my ma, Mrs. Hawkins?”

“Yes, yes. Now, let me get ready.” He waved Nate away.

Nate hurried from there to the stagecoach depot and checked on tomorrow’s departure of the stage.

The agent consulted a schedule. “Be here by seven-thirty. The driver will want to be on his way by dawn. Days are short.”

“Thanks.” Nate didn’t hang about to see what else the man had to say but hurried to Aunt Bea’s to inform Louise of the time of the wedding.

At his knock, she pulled him inside and closed the door. “Vic’s been hanging about out back.”

“I’ll take care of him.” He eased Louise aside, intending to dash out the back door. Louise stopped him.

“Leave him be. What did you find out?”

He told her the arrangements for the wedding.

“I’ll be ready,” she said.

“You haven’t changed your mind?” Seemed now was the time to do so if she wasn’t sure.

“I’ll do what I have to to get away from him.” She jabbed her thumb over her shoulder.

He studied her, recognized the look on her face. It was the same one she used to get when he and Gordie said she couldn’t join them in some activity. Didn’t matter if it was playing ball, climbing a cliff or rowing a boat on the river. She always insisted she could do whatever they did even though she was a girl and a year younger.

He chuckled.

“What’s so funny?”

“I remember how you always had to prove you could do whatever Gordie and I did.”

Her fierce gaze didn’t falter. “Seems I did it, too.”

“Except rowing the boat.” He chuckled again at the memory of her tipping over her boat and falling headfirst into the river. “I pulled you to safety or you’d likely have drowned.”

Their gazes riveted together, full of memories of a happier time. It had come to an end, of course.

She smiled. “Guess it’s up to me to prove again that I can face a challenge.”

He held her gaze. Or did she hold his? “I guess it’s up to me to rescue you again.”

He saw the protest in her eyes, but before she could voice it, the look faded to acceptance.

“You won’t regret it. I promise. You’ll be free as soon as we get there.”

From somewhere down the hall, Missy called Louise.

“I have things to prepare.” She held the door for him and locked it when he left. He stood on the step a moment, wondering how she could promise there’d be no regrets.

Then he hurried back to Ma’s house.

She must have been watching for him, for she met him at the door wearing a dress he hadn’t seen before. Dark blue taffeta with tiny fabric-covered buttons on the bodice. Not that he’d normally notice such things, but he was smart enough to recognize this as a special dress. Likely her best.

“When is the wedding?”

He told her the time.

“Good. That will give you time to bathe and put on your finest duds.”

“Me?”

“Of course. You want to look and smell your best.”

He sniffed. “Smells like you’ve been cooking.”

“I made some goodies for tea afterward. It’s customary.”

He wanted to protest. After all, this was only a pretend marriage. But of course he couldn’t tell his mother that. He had to go along with her plans.

“Get at it, son.” She pushed him toward the kitchen.

He looked at the galvanized tub in the middle of the kitchen floor. Ma was serious about the bath. Moreover, his best shirt and trousers hung freshly ironed and waiting.

He pulled the blinds and took a quick bath.

Besides his own clothes, there was a vest in gray pinstripe that he’d never seen before. From the mothball smell, it must have been in storage. He put it on. A little short, but wearing it turned his plain white shirt into something a little fancier. Ma had also left a black tie, which he tried to knot.

“Are you decent?” Ma called, and entered at his grunted yes. “I’ll do that.” She quickly fixed his tie and patted his shoulders. “That vest was your pa’s. He wore it for our wedding. It looks good on you.”

“Thanks, Ma.” He kissed her cheek, then dumped out his bathwater and put away the tub.

Ma stood ready. He took her arm and together they crossed the street to the Williams house.

He was about to take part in a marriage ceremony that was a mockery to the vows he would be asked to speak. He could only hope and pray God would understand and forgive because Nate did it for a noble reason.

When he knocked at Bea Williams’s house, Missy answered the door. Ma hurried inside and greeted Aunt Bea, then the two disappeared into the sitting room.

He hadn’t seen Missy in a year. “You’re all grown up.” It surprised him to see she was no longer a child.

She lifted one eyebrow. “So are you. All grown up and about to marry. Sure you can handle it?”

Could he? All his life he’d wanted something to last forever. He’d planned to find that on his ranch. Yet he felt as if he was mocking the idea of forever with a pretend marriage. Could he handle the falseness of it?

Before he could argue himself out of going along with this farce, he stepped inside.

As they said on the ranch when things got tough, he’d have to cowboy up. Well, he was about to cowboy up like never before.

Chapter Three

Louise waited, all ready to wed. Aunt Bea had said she must remain out of sight until everyone had assembled. “Make Nate wait a few minutes,” she’d advised. “It never hurts to make a man think you might have changed your mind.”

“I’m not changing my mind.” But as she waited, she wondered whether Nate would change his.

She drew in a deep breath. The last few hours had been a whirlwind. Together with Missy and Aunt Bea, she had washed the fine china and baked a cake. All necessary for a wedding, Aunt Bea had insisted. They’d dusted and tidied the parlor until it looked fit for company and was likely the cleanest it had been in a couple of decades.

When her aunt had been satisfied, she’d led Louise to her bedroom. “You won’t be able to wear my mother’s wedding dress. Not in your condition.” Aunt Bea had looked Louise up and down.

“You have Grandmother’s wedding dress?” Why hadn’t Aunt Bea offered it when Louise married Gordie?

“I have her veil, too. You can wear that.” Aunt Bea had opened a musty-smelling trunk. The wedding dress lay wrapped in muslin.

Aunt Bea had pulled out the veil. “I’ll press this.” She’d hurried from the room, then retraced her steps. “Why are you standing there? Go get ready.” She’d waved Louise toward her own bedroom, and Louise had hurried down the hall to select the only dress she could fit into that looked even halfway dressy—a gray satin with empire waistline that allowed for her girth.

“Hardly suitable for a bride,” she’d murmured to herself, then realized Aunt Bea had made Louise believe for a moment this was real. Shaking her head, she reminded herself of the facts. She was expecting a baby, she was a recent widow and the marriage was only temporary.

Aunt Bea had hurried in with the fragile veil and affixed it to Louise’s hair. Light as air, with sequins flashing in the sunlight, it reached to Louise’s elbows and made her feel almost pretty.

Missy had stepped into the room. “You’re beautiful,” she’d whispered.

Just a few minutes ago, she’d heard Pastor Manly enter and speak to Aunt Bea. Aunt Bea had giggled. Louise had noted previously how her aunt got girlie and giggly when Pastor Manly was around. If she wasn’t mistaken, Aunt Bea had finally found a man to her liking. Louise chuckled. Maybe Pastor Manly was responsible for Aunt Bea’s sudden interest in all things wedding related.

Now she heard Mrs. Hawkins speaking to Aunt Bea, then, finally, Nate’s voice, full and strong and sure. She closed her eyes. He’d come. She’d been wrong to fear that he might reconsider and ride out without a backward look.

Of course, he could still change his mind. Until the marriage certificate was signed in black ink and blotted dry, she couldn’t be sure he’d actually marry her.

“Everyone is ready.” Missy stood at the door.

“You look lovely. But then you always do.” She took the posy of silk pansies Aunt Bea had unearthed from her trunk, kissed her sister-in-law on the cheek, then tucked her hand into the crook of Missy’s arm and marched into the sitting room.

Nate stood in front of Pastor Manly. His hair, still damp enough to be dark, was slicked down. He wore a white shirt, a gray vest and a black tie.

She moved to Nate’s side. “You look nice,” she whispered, then sneezed. “Sorry, it’s the mothballs.”

He eyed her veil. “Nice touch.” His gaze caught hers, full of something she hadn’t seen in a long time—strength and encouragement. “You’re a beautiful bride.”

Her surprise barely registered before Pastor Manly cleared his throat. “Shall we begin? Before we do, it is incumbent upon me to ask if you are both sure about this very serious step?”

Louise held her breath. Would Nate say no?

“I’m sure. How about you, Louise?” he said.

“I’m sure.” The words wheezed out her tight throat.

Pastor Manly nodded and opened a black book. Only a few words registered in her brain—words of accusation. “An honorable estate not to be entered into lightly...but in the fear of God.”

What they were doing was wrong in the eyes of God. Would He ever forgive her? Well, it wasn’t as if He’d sent any other way of escaping Vic. And she must protect her baby at all costs.

“Face each other and hold hands. Repeat after me,” the pastor said. “In the name of God, I, Nathaniel Hawkins—”

Nate gripped her hand so hard her knuckles cracked. His eyes were dimmed by the veil over her face, yet not enough to hide his distress. His throat worked.

She dare not breathe. Oh, please don’t refuse. I need this. I promise I won’t tie you to the vows.

“I, Nate Hawkins, take you, Louise Williams Porter, to be my wife.”

She felt herself relax a bit. Still, had anyone else noticed his refusal to speak God’s name in his vows? She didn’t dare look at Pastor Manly, but the silence in the room echoed with the ticking of Aunt Bea’s mantel clock.

“Very well, then.” Pastor Manly continued, “To have and to hold from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and health, to love and to cherish, until death do us part.”

Nate got as far as “until death do us part” and stopped.

“This is my solemn vow,” the pastor prompted.

“Louise will have to take my word for it,” Nate said.

“This is highly irregular, but I suppose it’s acceptable.” The pastor turned to Louise. “Repeat after me—”

“Excuse me, I want my vows to be the same as Nate’s.” She, too, would prefer to leave God’s name out of them.

Pastor Manly gave them each a hard look. For a moment, Louise feared he would refuse to marry them under the circumstances. Aunt Bea leaned forward. “It’s still legal, isn’t it?”

“Yes, yes.” He proceeded. “Rings?”

Nate shook his head. “Didn’t have time.”

“I shouldn’t be surprised, should I? Then all you have to do is sign the papers.” They did so, and after Aunt Bea and Mrs. Hawkins added their signatures, Reverend Manly concluded the ceremony. “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride.”

She would have jerked her hand from Nate’s, but he held tight. Slowly, he lifted her veil and smiled as he gave a little nod as if to indicate they needed to complete this charade.

She closed her eyes and lifted her face to him.

His lips brushed hers ever so softly. Quickly he drew back, but not before she felt the kiss all the way to her toes. She could almost persuade herself it had only been her imagination. Yet her lips still tingled from his tender touch.

Pastor Manly gave a tight smile. “What God has joined together let no man put asunder.”

Heat pooled in the pit of Louise’s stomach. Oh, why had he said that? She tried to swallow away the burning. It was only heartburn, she told herself, not guilt. Wouldn’t God expect her to do what she must in order to protect those in her care? She cradled her arms around her stomach.

Missy hugged her and kissed her cheek. Aunt Bea patted her arm. Mrs. Hawkins squeezed her hands. “Welcome to the family. I know you’ll make my Nate a happy man.”

Her gaze sought and found Nate. Help, she cried silently. She hadn’t expected to feel so guilty over this.

He met her eyes over Aunt Bea’s head as her aunt shook his hand. Did she imagine he looked as flummoxed as she felt?

She allowed herself to be led into the kitchen where the good china had been set out to welcome the guests. She and Nate were given the place of honor at the head of the table. His mother set a layered cake before them. “Congratulations! You may cut the cake.” She handed Louise the knife. “Nate, you put your hand over hers. It means you will support her and take care of her, and for Louise, it means she will take care of you and your children.”

Children? Louise almost choked. But she must do as instructed, as must Nate. He cupped his hand over hers and they cut a generous slice of cake.

Mrs. Hawkins clapped her hands together in glee. “The bigger the piece, the larger the family, and it looks like you are going to be blessed with lots of children.”

Aunt Bea shook her head. “I always thought it meant a long marriage.”

Why didn’t she know this? It wasn’t as if this was her first wedding. But she and Gordie had gone away to get married in a nearby town and come back as Mr. and Mrs. Porter with little fanfare. The church ladies had offered to hold a tea after the service to honor them, but she knew Gordie wouldn’t likely have agreed to come, so she’d declined.

Nate still held her hand and squeezed as if to encourage her to remain calm.

Aunt Bea and Mrs. Hawkins served tea and sandwiches. Where had they come from? Nate’s mother must have brought them. Aunt Bea cut pieces of cake for everyone and chatted on and on about the kind of marriage Nate and Louise would have. Even Missy added her comments.

Louise couldn’t choke down a single bite and pushed her plate aside to cup her hands around the teacup, seeking the warmth it offered. She would have gulped down the liquid but feared her hand would shake and she’d slosh the tea everywhere.

Pastor Manly seemed to be in no hurry to leave. He asked Aunt Bea about a book he was reading and they entered into a long discussion that was only noise in Louise’s head. The room shifted and swayed. She needed to breathe before she fainted, and concentrated on filling her lungs then releasing the air slowly.

Nate rubbed her back and the faintness passed.

“Feel better now?” Nate whispered, his mouth close enough to her ear that no one else heard.

She slowly brought her gaze round to his. “I didn’t think anyone noticed,” she whispered.

His smile flooded his blue eyes with warmth. “I did. Are you okay?”

“Good as can be expected.” Her words were full of resignation.

He chuckled. “We’ll survive. We’re good at that.”

She nodded. “We do what we must do.”

His gaze held hers. She couldn’t find the strength to turn away.

Still looking into his eyes, she leaned closer to whisper in his ear, “That’s a vow I can make honestly.”

The smile fled from his eyes.

She almost wished she hadn’t reminded him of the dishonesty they’d engaged in...vowing before God to something they didn’t mean to do. But they both understood the step they had taken together.

He patted her hand as if he wanted her to forget that part of the day.

“I must be on my way.” Pastor Manly wished Louise and Nate all the best before Aunt Bea escorted him to the door.

As soon as she returned, Nate spoke loud enough for the others to hear. “I have things to attend to.”

“You’ll be back. You’ll want to stay with your new wife.” Aunt Bea turned pink as a summer rose. “Louise, show him your room.” Poor Aunt Bea could hardly choke the words out.

“What about Missy?” Louise found herself as choked as Aunt Bea. She had to think of a way to refuse.

It was the most uncomfortable moment in her life.

* * *

Nate had things to attend to, but he couldn’t seem to budge from his chair as Aunt Bea’s words blared through his head. She expected them to stay in the same room. Of course she would. They were now man and wife. In the sight of God.

Poor Louise had looked about to faint more than once throughout the long afternoon. Who cared about cake and what it meant? Why couldn’t they all just get on with their business?

But stay the night in the same room? That was taking this pretend marriage too far. “We’ll wait until the baby is born,” he announced.

Aunt Bea made a protesting noise.

He noticed Louise’s shoulders rise, as if she was trying to hide from her aunt and his ma who were about to unleash protests.

Nate’s knee had started to bob up and down and he pressed his free hand to it, his other still clutching Louise’s on the tabletop next to the uneaten piece of cake. Neither of them had touched it after the startling predictions of a long wedded life and a large family. He would release her hand, but he felt the tension in every finger and suspected she might bolt from the table. Perhaps from the house. He couldn’t allow that, not when he’d caught glimpses of Vic wandering past the yard. No doubt wondering what was going on that required Pastor Manly’s presence.

Or did he hold tight to Louise for fear his own legs would bolt for the door, knocking over chairs and perhaps breaking to pieces the flowered teacups made of such fine china that they were almost transparent? The little handles were surely designed to make a man feel as clumsy as an ox.

His ma spoke up, ending the echoing silence. “Are you coming home, Nate? You’re welcome to bring Louise.”

Louise’s hand spasmed beneath his. He had to force himself to remain calm and refrain from squeezing her fingers any tighter.

“Ma, we leave on the stagecoach tomorrow morning. I have to get things organized. If Aunt Bea will allow it, I’ll sleep on the sofa here so we can get going early.” It wasn’t that early and Louise didn’t need any help getting herself ready, but it would enable him to be close by, should Vic grow more troublesome.

“Of course,” Aunt Bea said.

“Then I must get at the preparations. Ma, would you like me to escort you home?”

“I’m ready.”

Aunt Bea gathered up the dishes Ma had brought and held them while Ma pulled on her woolen shawl and winter gloves.

Vic ducked out of sight around the end of the block as Nate stepped from the house. He would confront the man later.

Behind him, the key turned in the lock. Good. Louise hadn’t forgotten to take precautions.

At home he packed his few belongings. In truth, he had little preparation to do. In the morning, he’d take Missy and Louise with him to the depot. He’d ride his horse beside the stage when they left. But despite having made all the arrangements he could for now, he was in no hurry to return to Louise and their pretend marriage.

And he had one necessary thing to do. He left the house and crossed to Aunt Bea’s house, suspecting he’d find Vic lingering nearby.

The man must have seen him approach, for he ducked behind a building. Nate strode in that direction.

Vic pressed against the wall of a back shed, but at Nate’s approach he straightened, jammed his hand to his hips and gave Nate one of his dark scowls.

Nate paid the scowl no mind. He stopped a few feet from Vic. “Thought you’d like to know that Louise and I got married this afternoon.”

Vic’s expression didn’t change one iota. The man was an expert at hiding his feelings. “That baby ain’t yours.”

“That’s not what the law says.” He knew that the wife’s husband was the legal father to any of her children, even though Louise had been clear about this being Gordie’s baby, lest he get the idea he should care about the little one.

Vic’s scowl turned to a leer. “How about that sweet little Missy?”

Nate narrowed his eyes. Other than that, he would not give the man the satisfaction of seeing how his question riled him. “She’s now my sister-in-law.” It wasn’t accurate, but close enough. “And I will protect her, just as I will protect my wife and her child.”

Vic gave a mirthless laugh. “My, ain’t you all righteous and noble? But you ain’t got no claim to Missy. I been waiting a long time for her. Someday she’ll be mine.”

“When the sun falls from the sky and lands at your feet, maybe.” He widened his stance, leaned back on his heels and crossed his arms as if he was in complete control of the situation. He could only hope and pray he was. But would God listen to the prayers of a man who made vows invoking God’s name with no intention of fulfilling those vows?

“Be careful.” Nate’s voice was low, but he made sure every syllable carried a warning. “You bother them again and you won’t be facing two helpless women.” Not that they were entirely helpless, but what chance did they stand before a ruthless man like Vic?

Vic snorted. “You think I’m ascared of you?”

“I suggest you should be.” He stalked away without waiting for the man to answer. If Vic should threaten Louise or Missy in any way, Nate would make sure he regretted it to the depths of his heart.

It was dark before he went back to Aunt Bea’s house and knocked. The key turned and Louise pulled the door open.

“I wondered if you’d left without us.”

“Nope. What kind of groom would leave his bride on their wedding night?” He didn’t succeed in keeping the teasing from his voice.

“A pretend one.” She stepped back to let him enter, then locked the door behind him.

“If I didn’t mean to take you with me, why would I bother with a pretend marriage that involved vows made before God and man?” It still bothered him to swear falsely.

“It plagues my conscience, too, you know. But Vic threatened to sell my baby.” Her arms cradled her stomach, protecting the unborn one. “I don’t doubt he would.”

Nate took his time about hanging his hat and coat. Done, his insides somewhat calmed, he turned to Louise and rested his hands on her shoulders. At the trembling beneath his palms, he pulled her closer, till only an inch separated them. He bowed his head over her hair. “I will protect you and your baby. I will see you get safely to Eden Valley Ranch where you will be given shelter for as long as you need it.”

“That is so good to know.” She stepped back and went to the sitting room, waving her hand for him to follow.

He wished he knew if she meant it was good to know he would protect her or good to know she would be welcome at the ranch.

A pile of blankets rested on a chair, reminding them both that the future would be different from anything they’d known.

He shifted his gaze from the blankets to Louise. She chewed on her bottom lip. “You still worried about Vic? Don’t be.”

She quirked an eyebrow. “I’ll stop worrying when we reach the ranch. Maybe.”

He wouldn’t mention his conversation with Vic earlier, nor the man’s insistence about wanting Missy. She’d be safe at Eden Valley Ranch. It wouldn’t be the first time someone had come after a woman there and ended up facing more than he figured on. The whole crew would protect Missy and Louise. He’d not say that now, though. It would only give Louise reason to think she couldn’t outrun Vic.

“We’ll be on our way tomorrow.” And he’d be keeping a sharp eye out for any trouble Vic might present.

“You hungry?” she asked. “I am. I couldn’t eat after the wedding.”

“Me neither. Do you suppose that piece of cake is still there?”

She smiled. “You mean the one that indicated we would have a long marriage?”

It was good to see her relax, and he chuckled. “And many children.”

She laughed softly.

“Where’re Aunt Bea and Missy?”

“They thought we might like some privacy, so they went to bed early.” She dipped her head, then lifted her eyes. “Seems we’re the only ones who remember this.” She patted her rounded stomach. While he tried to think of an answer, she said, “I’m going to find that cake. Come on.” He followed her into the kitchen.

A piece of cake and a handful of little sandwiches were on a plate under a glass dome. She poured a glass of milk for each of them and placed the plate of food on the table.

They sat kitty-corner from each other, eating the cheese sandwiches. When they were gone, she cut the cake and they each had a piece.

She grinned at him. “Aunt Bea was really into the wedding stuff. Do you know she has my grandmother’s wedding dress in a trunk in her bedroom? I think she’s still hoping to wear it.”

“Your aunt Bea? That’s a surprise.”

“I know. But she and Pastor Manly seem to have an interest in each other.” She sobered. “I don’t suppose I’ll get to see her in a wedding dress.”

Nate hadn’t thought about all she was losing in her flight north. The home she’d known for seven years, her friends, all the memories she’d made in this place. But she had no choice. “I guess you’ll take your memories with you.”

“And my baby.”

“And Missy.”

“I haven’t forgotten.” She pushed from the table, gathered the dishes, carried them to the basin and poured hot water over them.

He saw she was about to wash them. Saw weariness in the way she moved. He sprang to his feet. “You sit and I’ll take care of the dishes.”

She opened her mouth to refuse, but he took her by the shoulders and guided her back to the table and eased her down into the chair. She let out a sigh of relief.

As he washed the few dishes and dried them, he talked to her. “We have to be at the depot at seven-thirty tomorrow morning.”

“Not a problem. We’ll be ready to go.”

He dried the last dish and hung the towel on the rack by the stove. “Is there anything you need me to do?”

Her eyebrows came up. “You mean, besides marry me?”

He tipped his head in acknowledgment. “Do you need me to bring a trunk from the attic or...” He had no idea what she might need.

“I’m packed and ready to go.” She patted his arm. “Missy and I have been on our own for a while Nate. We won’t be a nuisance. I promise.” She rested her hand on the top of her tummy bulge. “All we need is the protection of marriage so Vic can’t convince strangers I’m a runaway wife.”

“Vic won’t bother you again. I promise.” He hoped his words were not another pretend vow.

Chapter Four

Louise was awake long before it was time to rise. The baby kicked as if excited about the journey. Just stay where you are for a few more days.

She lifted her head from her pillow. Did she hear a tapping at the door? A chill wove around her spine. Not Vic! She’d locked the doors solidly. But she knew that wouldn’t prove enough barrier to stop the man.

“Louise, are you awake?” Nate whispered from the other side of the bedroom door. He’d spent the night in the parlor, which should have made her sleep a lot better than it did.

Her lungs emptied in a whoosh and she rose gingerly from bed, donned a wrap and cracked the door open. “Yes?”

“I’m going to get a wagon. Lock the door after me.”

She waited until he went outside to move down the hall as fast as she could and turn the key.

Missy had begged to sleep in the room with Louise last night, saying she was afraid to be alone, afraid Vic would find her. She sat up as Louise returned to the bedroom. “Today we start our great adventures.” She lifted her hands over her head and laughed. With an ease Louise could barely remember, Missy scurried from bed and began to dress.

“Remember to wear your warmest clothes.” Although the weather had been mild, it was December and the temperatures could drop anytime.

Missy chattered as they dressed. “I’ve always wanted to see what was north of here. But more than anything, I want to get away from that vile Vic.”

“You’re about to get your wish.” Louise put the last of her things in her valise. She wouldn’t need much for the journey. Everything else was in a small trunk—baby things, some outfits for after she’d had the baby and a few mementos of her mother.

She paused a moment to let regrets at what she was about to leave waft through her, combined with wishes for what might have been if her mother had stayed.

Aunt Bea had told her the truth about Louise’s mother. Not that she died and that was why Louise and her pa were on their own, as Pa always said, but that she’d left Pa because she couldn’t stand the mining camps. Aunt Bea said she thought Ma had tried to take Louise, but Pa wouldn’t allow it. Louise thought Aunt Bea only wanted to remove the look of shock from Louise’s face. Ma had died of consumption three years after leaving them.

Louise reached into the trunk for an item.

“I have something of your mother’s,” Aunt Bea had once said, and brought out a painting of a young child. The painting she now held in her hands.

“Is that me?” Louise had fingered the frame.

Her aunt had nodded. “Your mother was a talented artist. The picture is now yours.”

“Thank you.” The painting had been her most cherished possession ever since. In it she was sure she saw love. But love had not been enough to make her mother stay. Because of that thought she’d never display the picture. For a moment she mused on a thought. What was enough to make any person stay? If not love, then what?

She’d considered the question many times and had never found an answer. Nor did she expect to today, either. She put the picture into the trunk, closed the latches, then went to the kitchen.

They ate a hurried breakfast. Aunt Bea insisted they take an abundant lunch for the journey, most of which was the remainders of meals Louise had prepared in the past two days.

A wagon rattled up to the house and Nate knocked.

She unlocked the door and stepped back to let him in.

“Where’s the luggage?” he asked.

Louise directed him to the two trunks—hers and Missy’s, and he hoisted one to his shoulder and trotted to the wagon. She and Missy carried their smaller bags. In minutes, he had both aboard and stood at the door. “Are you ready?”

Louise and Missy pulled on their warmest outer clothing. Aunt Bea pressed a gray woolen blanket into each of their arms.

“Stay safe. Let me know when you arrive.” She hugged Louise.

Tears stung Louise’s eyes. Aunt Bea had only twice before hugged her. Once when she told her about her mother and the other time when Gordie was killed.

“I’ll send a letter,” she promised Aunt Bea, then let Nate lead her to the wagon and help her aboard. He had to practically lift her.

“I’m sorry,” she said. “I’m such a size right now.”

“For better or worse,” Aunt Bea reminded them.

Louise met Nate’s gaze, as full of secret and regret as hers. He acknowledged the moment with a little nod of his head and a barely there smile before he turned to assist Missy.

They rattled down the street to the depot. He helped them alight and, with his arm around Louise’s shoulders, led them inside where it was marginally warmer than outside. It would be warmer if the door was closed, but the ticket man had it propped open.

She sat on the narrow wooden bench and Nate unfolded the blanket Aunt Bea had provided and draped it over her lap. A person could get used to being taken care of. She buried the thought. Best not get used to it. This was temporary. She must stand on her own for her sake, as well as that of her unborn child.

“Wait here,” he said. “While I take care of the wagon.” He rushed out. Seemed he was as impatient to start this journey as Missy, who wriggled on the bench beside her. Louise tried to decide what she felt. Certainly not the excitement Missy showed. Truth was, she was worried. Not so much about Vic anymore, though she’d never quite believe he was out of her life. But the baby had been more active lately. Please, God, don’t let it be born before we reach Eden Valley Ranch. Let it be a Christmas baby. But would God even hear her? Or listen if He did? So many times in the past she had felt abandoned by God, though she did her best to believe He loved her, as the Porters had so fervently taught her.

If the baby came on the trip, it would slow them down, and Nate had made it clear he wouldn’t let them hinder him from getting back to Edendale in time to see a man about buying a ranch. She drove steel into her spine. If he left them somewhere, she would simply continue the journey at her own speed.

What if the stagecoach left them, too?

She would not contemplate all the things that could go wrong.

A shadow crossed the floor. She looked up and there stood Vic leaning against the door frame.

“Going someplace?” He drawled the words.

“Away from here.” Louise’s reply carried a full dose of her dislike for the man. Away from you.

“Hear you and Nate got hitched. You figger you can tie that cowboy down, do ya?”

She figured no such thing. “I fail to see how that’s any of your business.”

The man behind the ticket wicket watched them. The room was small enough he could hear every word. She didn’t care. She and Nate were legally married. That’s all anyone had to know.

Vic strode over and sat beside Missy.

Louise moved down the bench so Missy could put space between herself and Vic. He simply moved down until Louise balanced on the end.

The ticket man cleared his throat.

Vic ignored the subtle warning. “Missy, you don’t have to go with Louise.”

“I’m going because I want to.”

Louise had to give the girl credit. She never let on how much Vic frightened her.

“You sure? Hear it’s real primitive up there. No decent town for miles. Mostly Indians and buffalo roaming about. You might get tired of nobody who can show you a good time.” He pushed closer to Missy.

Louise pushed back to keep from being bumped to the floor.

The ticket man cleared his throat most loudly. “Ladies, is this man bothering you?”

As if that wasn’t obvious. But Vic had a reputation throughout the town, and Louise didn’t blame the ticket man for being cautious.

Vic scowled at the poor man. “This ain’t none of yer business.”

“It is mine.” Nate blasted through the door, yanked Vic to his feet and rushed him outside.

Vic fought to free himself from Nate’s hold as he scrambled to keep his feet under him.

Nate shoved him from the building and released him on the sidewalk.

Vic splayed his arms to stay upright.

“Leave my wife and sister-in-law alone. You hear?” Nate stood tall, his fists on his hips, and glowered at Vic, who picked up his hat and dusted it off before smashing it back on his head.

“You done made a mistake.” He stalked away.

Louise didn’t know whether to be shocked at Nate’s actions or amused at Vic’s blustering.

Missy chuckled. “Someone should have warned Vic not to mess with Nate. He never did take kindly to unfairness.”

Louise let those words simmer in her brain. She’d forgotten how Nate sprang to the defense of others.

The ticket man stared at Louise.

“That’s right,” she said calmly. “Nate and I are married now.” She felt a sense of pride in saying those words, even if it was only pretend.

She could hear the man gasp clear across the room.

The stagecoach rattled to a stop and Nate helped put the trunks on top.

Louise pushed to her feet and followed Missy, who practically danced out to the sidewalk.

Louise made it as far as the door and stopped. It was too late to change her mind. She’d burned her bridges yesterday when she married Nate. The baby kicked her hard as if to remind her that she had no choice. Vic was too dangerous. Yet she couldn’t make her feet move. She didn’t like change. Going meant leaving...leaving her life, her friends. She glanced to the right and left. None of her friends had come to bid her farewell. But then, they didn’t know she was leaving. Any more than they knew she was married again.

Nate stood in front of her, his expression quietly concerned. He touched her arm. “Is something wrong?”

His touch, his words, filled her with strength and resolve. “Everything is fine. I was just saying a mental goodbye.”

He nodded. “Do you want me to give you a moment?”

He had always had this gentle consideration for the needs of others—spoken or otherwise. Another thing she’d forgotten. Encouraged by that memory, she smiled. “I’m done. I’m ready.”

He bent his elbow for her to hold as she crossed the wooden walkway and escorted her down the wooden steps to the ground. Grateful for his help, she turned to face him. “Thank you. I’m sorry I’m so awkward right now.”

“As your husband, I am more than willing to help you.”

Her heart beat a rapid rhythm as wild wishes for forever tangled with regret and reality.

He flashed a smile so unexpectedly warming that she could only stare. He leaned closer to whisper, “We might as well enjoy this while it lasts. I, for one, fully intend to.”

“How can you think that’s possible?”

He chuckled. “We were friends in the past. Let’s see if we can remember what that was like.”

A relieved smile curved her mouth. See, he truly wasn’t Vic nor like Vic in any way.

“Folks, I’d like to get on the road soon as possible.” The driver’s urging made it impossible to do more than nod her agreement to Nate.

He steadied her as she climbed into the stage and sat next to Missy. Facing them was a woman whose expression was full of curiosity. No doubt she’d strained to hear every word. She shifted and a pained look came to her face, perhaps from sharing the space of the man on the other end of her bench—a weathered old man who ought to have shaved and bathed. Clean clothes would have been nice, too. Between the two, a cowboy in rumpled clothes leaned forward on the leather-covered seat as if uncomfortable at being pressed so close to the others.

At least Louise and Missy weren’t crowded together with a stranger. Unless they picked up more passengers on the way.

The smell of the one man permeated the coach and made Louise’s stomach roll. Perhaps when they got moving, fresh air would help.

With a crack of the whip and a call to giddyap, the journey began.

Her heart lurched along with the coach. Where was Nate? Had he abandoned her already?

She glanced out the window. He sat astride his horse, riding beside them. Was that how he planned to make the trip to Fort Macleod? Or did he plan on leaving them before they arrived at their destination? Riding out there, he could leave at any moment, and then what would she do?

Her lips pressed tight. If he left, she’d have to manage. At least they were going away from Vic.

If Nate left, would he look her up later and arrange to dissolve their marriage?

She sat back. Oh, how upset Aunt Bea would be if she knew the falseness of her marriage vows. How often had she warned Louise to do what was right even when it was difficult? Aunt Bea never came right out and said so, but Louise understood her to mean Louise shouldn’t be like her mother. In Aunt Bea’s opinion, Ma ought to have honored her wedding vows.

The baby kicked against Louise’s ribs.

She relaxed as much as was possible in the swaying coach. She was doing this for the right reasons—to protect her baby.

Missy poked her head out the window on her side. “We’re almost out of town. We’re on our way.” She laughed from sheer joy.

Louise took one more look out the window, glancing back. Why couldn’t things stay the same? People left or died. Things changed. Just once she’d like to think she could hold on to something, or someone.

Instead, she was leaving the place that had been her home for many years. She was heading into an uncertain future as part of a very temporary marriage.

Seemed forever was always going to be out of her reach.

* * *

We used to be friends?

Nate grinned as he thought of Louise’s surprised expression when he said those words. She had looked so worried, frightened even. Guess he couldn’t blame her. She was a widow, about to become a mother, and now leaving her home for a place she’d never seen.

He chuckled softly and ducked his head, lest anyone see and wonder why he was so amused. She was also a new bride. No wonder she wore such a tense expression.

At that moment he had decided to try to make the journey enjoyable, though he’d ridden in a stagecoach once and wondered if it was possible to find any pleasure in the ride. But he would do his best to help her through the next few days. Not only because he was her temporary husband, but because of Gordie. And also because of the past they shared, a happier time, to be sure. He had no desire to go back. The future beckoned. He’d always thought of Louise as part of his past, but now she was part of his present. Just not his future. Even so, it wouldn’t hurt to help her. He didn’t find the prospect distasteful, which alarmed him. Still, it was only a few days out of his life, seven or eight at the most. Might as well make the best of it.

They left the town behind them. In a few miles they turned toward Fort Benton. From there they would follow the Whoop-Up Trail north.

He’d decided to ride his horse rather than be cooped up in the coach, but now he wished he was inside so he could point out different landmarks to Louise.

It was cold but clear. No threat of snow or rain. Dust rolled up from the horses’ hooves and the wheels. Some of it drifted into the coach. Was she comfortable enough?

He’d have to wait until their first way station to ask.

He settled back into the saddle and drank his fill of the scenery. It felt good to be in the open again, riding horseback. That was his life now—a free-and-easy cowboy about to start his own ranch. It would mean lots of work. Hours of riding. Cattle to buy and move. Horses to break. Meat to hunt.

And no one to worry about but himself. He liked that. Back in Rocky Creek he was reminded of the futility of worrying about others. He’d asked around for details on Gordie’s death. No one had been charged with his death, even though it seemed likely he’d been murdered. The last person seen with him had been Vic. It was enough to convince Nate that Vic had something to do with Gordie’s death. Nate had worried when his friend had joined up with Vic. He’d tried to convince Gordie it wasn’t wise. Rather than continue to argue with his friend, he’d left. Every year when he visited, he’d sought out Gordie and tried again to persuade him to leave, to follow him to Eden Valley Ranch and get work.

Every year he’d failed and left. All his worry and concern had achieved nothing. Better to be free and easy. To move forward, not back, not even glance over his shoulder at what might have been.

The stage hit a hole in the trail and jolted from one side to the other. The occupants clutched at the leather handholds to keep from being tossed from their seats. Sure didn’t look comfortable to Nate. He’d sooner ride a horse any day.

He’d taught Louise to ride. Not that she’d never been on horseback before she moved to Rocky Creek, but she’d never ridden astride at full gallop across a field.

Ma had heard of it and scolded Nate royally. “She’s a young lady. Have some regard for her safety and reputation.”

It was a warning he meant to heed but Louise had ideas of her own and had continued to follow him and Gordie around, insisting she could do anything they did. Mostly she could.

No longer. She could barely waddle. Wouldn’t she pitch a fit if he pointed it out to her?

At least he was doing what he could to protect her reputation with this pretend marriage, and at the same time keep her safe from Vic.

He glanced around, studying every bush and boulder, looking for someone lurking after them. He saw no one. Had Vic given up on his quest to have Louise and Missy? And the baby? Nate’s jaw protested at how hard he clamped down on his teeth. Imagine selling a baby! The mere thought made his insides twist. Best for Vic if he stayed away.

But would Vic give up so easily? One part of Nate thought Vic would move on to easier prey, especially after Nate had tossed him into the street. But another part thought Vic didn’t like to admit defeat.

Nate rode around a rut dug in the trail by wagon wheels during a rain. The stage wasn’t able to miss it and lurched from side to side again.

Nate fell back and to the side. From his position, he could see Louise without her noticing unless she looked over her shoulder.

Her face was pinched and pale, her eyes closed, her mouth a thin line.

The ride had to be most uncomfortable in her condition. Maybe she was regretting this decision.

He kept his position as they continued, watching with growing concern. He might have lost his right to ask God for favors by vowing falsely, but somehow he knew that wasn’t true. How many talks had Bertie given back at the ranch as they gathered in the cookhouse for Sunday services? He’d said God never gave up on people. God, don’t give up on me. I know what I did was wrong, marrying with no intention of staying married. But I did it for Missy, Louise and her baby. I’m still concerned about them. Please help me get them safely to the ranch.

They came to the first way station to change horses.

The driver called, “Folks, time for a quick break, but be late getting aboard and be left behind.”

The threat of being left behind in this desolate place would make all of them hurry. There was only a crude barn, a set of corrals for the horses and a dugout home for the bewhiskered man who sauntered over to help with the animals.

Nate dismounted, led his horse to water, then made haste to help the ladies down.

Missy hurried to the well to drink her fill of water.

Nate pulled Louise’s hand around his elbow to rest on his arm. When she leaned heavily on him, he dipped his head to study her face. Was she gritting her teeth? “Are you okay?”

She nodded, then worked her jaw loose. “I need a drink and to stretch my legs.”

He filled a dipper and she gulped back three swallows, then stopped and handed the dipper back with a word of thanks. He again pulled her hand around his arm as they walked along the dusty path.

She stopped at the corner of the corrals and leaned on a post.

“You sure you’re okay? It’s not too late to change your mind.”

She turned on him, pierced him with a sharp look. “Are you suggesting I go back? And do what? Fight Vic? Do you really think I’d stand a chance against someone so despicable and sneaky?”

“I was only thinking of you. We’ve just been gone a few hours and you already look exhausted.”

She drew herself upright, no longer leaning on the post. All hint of tiredness had been erased from her demeanor. “I am only thinking of my baby.”

Their gazes held, hers full of fury and determination, his, he supposed, full of resignation. “Put that way, I guess you have no choice but to cowboy up.”

“Cowboy up?”

“Means you do what is hard instead of moaning about it.”

She nodded. “Exactly what I mean to do.”

He grinned. “Awfully good to see there is some spark left in you.”

She rumbled her lips. “I might lose my spark, but I’ll never lose my fight.” Her hands pressed to her stomach and he understood she would fight whatever enemy threatened her baby.

“You won’t fight alone.” Although she’d made it clear this was Gordie’s baby, he felt more than a little concern for the little one’s safety. “I’ll make sure all three of you get to Eden Valley Ranch.”

Her gaze burned a path through his thoughts as if she didn’t believe him. Didn’t trust him.

Why would she think that? He’d never done anything to give her reason to doubt his word. “You don’t trust me. Why?”

Her reply was cut off by the coach driver. “Folks, get aboard unless you want to stay here.”

Louise hurried back to the coach with Nate on her heels. He knew he wasn’t wrong in thinking she was grateful she didn’t get a chance to answer his question.

Chapter Five

Louise sat in the coach wishing it didn’t have to move. The constant swaying made her seasick. The jolting from side to side brought on spasms in her stomach muscles. But with a gentle bounce they were on their way once again. She hung on to the leather strap and tried to think of something besides her stomach.

Nate was right. She didn’t trust him. But what purpose would be served in admitting it? As to her reasons, they were too numerous and too convoluted to tell. Throughout her life she’d had no evidence she could trust anyone.

Not even God? her conscience accused her.

There were times she trusted Him. Like when she’d told Gordie they were going to have a baby. She’d been thrilled at the thought of another little Porter in the family. Gordie had seemed to enjoy the idea, too.

But then Gordie had been killed. It was hard to trust after that.

They jerked over another hole in the trail and she bit her bottom lip to keep from crying out a protest.

You don’t need to trust when everything is going according to your wishes. It’s when things are difficult and hard to understand, you need to trust.

She recalled hearing the words in a soft, gentle voice. Not Aunt Bea. They seldom talked about such things. It was Mrs. Porter who had said them. And Louise did her best to believe them. But there were days she wanted things to be easier. Then it would be easy to trust.

They swayed hard to the right and she could do little but think about keeping from crying out against the pain in her ribs.

“That young man is keeping a close eye on you,” the lady across from her said. “Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Miss Rowena Rolfe.”

Louise and Missy introduced themselves.

The three women looked toward the men awaiting their introductions.

The cowboy said, “Sam.”

The other man grinned, revealing stubs of yellowed teeth. “Sparky George.”

No one asked if George was his first or last name, and after a minute he settled back.

Miss Rolfe continued, “I’m journeying to Fort Macleod to join my brother.” She leaned closer and whispered, “He tells me there are ten men to every marriageable woman.” She blushed and lowered her gaze.

The two men to her left slanted looks in her direction. The cowboy turned away quickly, but Sparky George studied Miss Rolfe several seconds.

Miss Rolfe looked out the window at Nate. “If that is a sample of what’s available, I believe my decision to go to Fort Macleod will be a wise one.”

Missy chuckled. “He’s married to her.” She jerked her thumb toward Louise, then pointedly nodded her head toward the men beside Miss Rolfe as if to suggest they might be available.

Miss Rolfe shrank into her corner, clearly not liking the possibilities one man in particular on this ride offered.

Missy grinned widely.

“How far are you going?” Miss Rolfe asked.

Seemed she had a need to pass the time with conversation, while all Louise wanted to do was close her eyes and pray for the day to end. Yes, she’d pray. Things couldn’t get much more difficult or hard to understand, so it seemed like a perfect time to start trusting God. I know I’ve not been faithful. I lied before the preacher and before You. I hope You can forgive me for that. But please, if You care about me at all, help me make it to Eden Valley Ranch. After a silent groan, she added, Help the baby to stay where he is until we get there.

She closed her eyes and rested her head on the back of her bench as Miss Rolfe and Missy continued to talk. All she had to do was survive another mile and after that another mile, another hour, and another stop to change horses until they stopped for the night. Then repeat it all the next day and the next until they reached their destination.

A day might as well have been a lifetime the way she felt at the moment.

At the next stop, Nate came toward her as she walked about trying to get the cramps out of her legs and back. Not wanting to talk to him, she turned and retraced her steps.

He followed. “Did you get water?”

She shook her head. Sparky stood by the pump and she wanted fresh air more than she needed water.

Nate trotted over, filled a dipper and brought it back to her.

She grabbed the handle and drank sparingly. There would be no stops along the way for a pregnant lady needing to empty her bladder.

“We’ll soon be at Fort Benton,” Nate said. “We’ll stop there for the night.”

“Good.”

“You’ll be okay?”

“I’m fine.” As fine as could be expected, but she’d spare him the details. Her discomfort was temporary. Getting to safety at the ranch was all that mattered.

She returned to her seat to endure the rest of the journey. She half dozed, lulled by the sway of the coach and the murmur of conversation around her.

“Louise.” Missy’s frantic whisper brought her fully alert. “Look.”

She followed the direction Missy pointed. From the trees rode two men with bandannas pulled up over their faces. She grabbed Missy’s hand. “Vic?” Not waiting for an answer, she jerked down the leather curtain. Missy did the same on her side.

Sparky leaned forward, saw the men and jerked the curtain down on his side. “Ma’am, pull down the curtain,” he ordered Miss Rolfe. She peeked out the window, let out a squeak and jerked the leather covering down.

Louise lifted a corner on her window to look for Nate. She couldn’t see him. Where had he gone? He was about to be tested on his promise to get her to safety.

One of the men rode to the side of the driver and leveled his gun on the man. “This is a holdup.”

Louise almost laughed. Did the robber think the driver might mistake him for someone wanting to get passage on the stage?

“Whoa. Whoa.” The stage jerked to a halt.

“Throw down the strongbox.”

There was a strongbox? Was there one on every stage? Louise had never had any need to know.

A metal box hit the ground beside her, the thud racing along her nerves.

“You passengers get out.”

Louise looked at Missy. If one of the men was Vic, could they expect to hide inside? Again she looked for Nate. Had the robbers found and shot him? Tears welled up behind her eyes but before she could explain them to herself the door yanked open and one of the robbers aimed his gun toward Miss Rolfe. “Out.”

She scrambled past him.

Sam was ordered out next. He took his time about climbing out until the robber hit him on the side of the head, then he hurried up.

“Old man, yer next.”

Sparky muttered under his breath and earned himself a smack on the side of the head, as well.

Louise gasped as blood oozed from the wound. Finally she could see that this man wasn’t Vic, but he was every bit as evil. She measured the distance from her foot to the hand that held the gun. But before she could put her thought into action and kick the gun away, the robber turned to Missy.

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