Spoiled Evelyn (The Mail Order Brides of Boot Creek Book 4) (7 page)

T
he urgency
of our flight necessitated a jarring ride, the horse beneath me working at the top of her speed, while I grasped onto her mane, lowering myself into the wind. My hat had tumbled off long ago, my hair escaping the confines of pins that had fallen to the gravel beneath us. It remained a priority to put as much distance between those who followed, and, to my dismay, it seemed they had gained on us.

“It’s not much further!” shouted Chuck, who nodded in the direction we galloped, where a sloping terrain emerged, nestled against two enormous hills. From miles away, I had thought them to be mountains, but they weren’t as high as that.

Glancing over my shoulder, the shapes of men, riders in dark attire on incredibly fast horses—possibly stallions, approached, but they were still far off. “What now?”

“Just around the bend. Follow me.”

I spied a path then, but so would those who came behind, yet we had little choice but to turn into it, the horses exhausted from the ride, their coats a sweaty mess, while their mouths dripped with frothy saliva. We needed to stop soon or else the animals would die. The path led through a crevice between the hills, emerging on the other side to a rock-strewn field, the boulders enormous. Winding our way through, we arrived at a simple-looking gate, which had been constructed of wood.

Chuck dismounted, throwing one of the hinged doors open, and I passed, gazing behind me. “They’ll come here.”

“They’re not welcome. We are.” He encouraged his exhausted animal inside, closing the fence gate. “Pedro don’t take too kindly to strangers knocking on his door. He and his boys will give those fellas what for.”

“I hope so.” Biting my lip, I desperately wanted to believe him.

“Don’t look so scared, honey. It’ll be all right.”

“Today was terrifying.”

“It’s not over.” He trotted before me. “Come on. We’re close, but we’re bein’ watched.”

“What?”

“Pedro knows someone is coming. He’s got a lookout on the hill. He saw us from miles away.”

I glanced at where he pointed, seeing a man crouched amongst an outcropping of rocks. “Will he shoot us?”

“
Nosotros somos amigos! Es
Chuck Brittle!” he yelled to the man.

We did not stop, continuing down the path, until the outlines of an adobe structure appeared before us, where men waited, armed to the teeth. If these were indeed Mr. Brittle’s friends, I suddenly felt far safer than before.

“Goodness,” I uttered. “I hope they don’t shoot.”

“
Hola, amigos! Dónde está
, Pedro?”

The house appeared well fortified, with tiny slits for windows and a heavy wooden door. Several dozen rifles pointed in our direction. A short, older-looking man weaved amongst those standing in the foreground, approaching.

“Mr. Brittle?” His accent was pronounced. “Is that you?”

“Pedro?” Chuck dismounted, grinning. “It’s good to see you, but I’ve got trouble.”

“We know. We’ve been watching your approach, but who are the others?” His attention drifted to me. “A beautiful woman dressed in men’s clothes. This is something new. When aren’t you in trouble?”

Chuck shrugged, looking guilty. “Miss Evelyn Warner hired me to take care of her. She’s got an ex-fiancé on her tail.”

Pedro said something to his men, and they lowered their weapons, dispersing, while the front door of the building swung inward. “Come inside. Let’s take up positions, so we may dissuade this fiancé of hers.”

“Ex-fiancé,” I said, dismounting. A man came to get my horse. “Thank you.” His features were hidden beneath a wide-brimmed hat, but it seemed as if he smiled.

“This animal’s been ridden hard,” he said.

“I know. It couldn't be helped.”

“She’ll be given water and a rubdown.”

“Thank you.”

Chuck approached, eyeing me. “You lost your hat.”

“I did.”

“I like this look on you. I prefer your hair down.”

“Well, you’ve gotten your wish.” Passing through the door, we emerged into a small, sparsely furnished hallway. Whitewashed walls and tiled floors revealed a functional, simply decorated, space.

A young woman approached from what looked like an inner courtyard. “Who’s here,
Padre
?”

“It’s Chuck Brittle and a friend, Anna.”

Her attention lingered on me. “What is she wearing?”

“Good question,” he chuckled.

“It’s supposed to be a disguise, but I lost my hat.”

“She’s in trouble, Anna,” said Chuck. “I’m sorry to bother you fine folks, but I didn’t know where else to go. They came upon us faster than I thought.”

“Take Miss Warner with you,” said Pedro. “This is my daughter, Anna. She’ll see to your comfort.” He glanced at Chuck. “I need you. We might be in for a battle or they may just go away. I’ve men on the hill.”

Chuck met my gaze. “It’s gonna be fine. We’re safe now. There’s enough firepower here to rival the Alamo. You go freshen up, honey. I’ll see you later.”

The last two hours of our ordeal had taken a toll on me. I had been worried we would be caught, terrified of the consequences and the possibility of being shot at. Inexplicably, tears filled my eyes, while my throat tightened. Having operated under extreme duress, it felt strange to suddenly not have the fear of death upon me. Chuck drew me into his arms, where I found the solace I craved.

“We’re safe,” he murmured. “You did good, Evie. You were an excellent horsewoman. You’ve got nothin’ to worry about now. I’ll be back as soon as I can.”

“I hope so.” A feeling of tenderness rushed through me, as my fingers clutched at his waistcoat.

He kissed my forehead. “I’m gonna help Pedro shoot a coupla men, and then we’ll have supper. I know you’re starvin’.” When I failed to move, he pushed me away, gently. “Go on. This shooting business isn’t for ladies.”

“Come with me,” said Anna. “The women are inside across the way. The house is built against solid rock. We’ll be safe there.”

That sounded reassuring. “All right.” I had been brave for hours, and, now that we had reached shelter, it was difficult to release the fear.
You prayed for salvation, and God brought you here, Evie. Yes, He did.

I followed Anna through a large, square-shaped courtyard, the sun beating down upon patterned terracotta tiles. Flowers spilled from ceramic pots, while colorful woven carpets hung from the walls. A grey cat sauntered across the expanse, disappearing through a door on the other end. The structure butted up against a rock, the jagged edges of stone exposed in this corner, rising high above the patio.

On the other side, Anna led me down a short hallway to a room where several people had gathered, sitting on the floor upon comfortable-looking pillows. A little boy grinned. “Who is she?”

“This is Evie,” she said.

“It’s Evelyn, but you may call me Evie.”

An older woman got to her feet, wearing an outfit similar to Anna’s, a colorful skirt with an embroidered blouse. “Welcome to our home.” She smiled kindly. “I’m Patricia Hernandez. This is my youngest son, Juan. These are my maids, Alejandra and Silvia.” Her eyes skimmed over me. “You look tired, my dear.”

“We’ve been riding since yesterday.”

“Come sit with us.” She said something in Spanish to one of the women, who scrambled to her feet. “Alejandra will bring some refreshment.”

I had expected to hear gunfire, worried there would be a fight. “I’m sorry we brought trouble your way.” I sat on a pillow, lifting my knees before me. Being dressed in this manner gave me leave to behave in a more relaxed fashion.

“We’ve had trouble before. You’re safe here. They cannot penetrate these walls. They’re three feet thick. Bullets sink into the plaster. We’ve enough men to deal with an attack.”

“It’s a relief. I didn’t think we would make it.”

“Who are you running from?”

“My ex-fiancé. He’s rather persistent.”

“Why are you dressed in this manner?” She eyed my trousers critically. “Why would you dress like a man?”

“I had to disguise myself or I would’ve been seen leaving the hotel in town. They were waiting for me.”

“I don’t want my daughter to get any ideas, but the outfit looks good on you.”

“It’s very comfortable. I might cry, if I have to wear a corset again.”

“If you like, you may borrow some of our clothing.”

“Thank you. I didn’t bring very much. We had to travel light.”

Alejandra returned carrying a tray with several plates. She knelt before us. “I hope you like taquitos.” Several were on the plate with guacamole.

“I’ll eat anything. I’m starving. Those look delicious.” I took one of the rolled tacos, having a bite. “Oh, marvelous.” It tasted crunchy and delicious. It had been filled with chicken.

“We’ve several with beef too,” said Anna.

“Thank you.” While we ate, I waited to hear the sound of gunfire, but only silence remained. “Why hasn’t anyone fired?”

“Perhaps, they’ve gone away,” said the little boy. “Those men were no match for my
Padre
.”

Mrs. Hernandez ruffled his hair. “You may go see what’s happened, but don’t go outside.”

“
Sí
,
Madre!
” He scampered off.

“You’re married to Mr. Brittle?” asked Patricia.

“Oh, no. I hired him to protect me.”

“But you’ve been traveling with him … alone?” A shapely, dark eyebrow lifted.

I hadn’t thought of things quite that way. “I suppose I have. We had little choice.”

“Chuck Brittle is a friend of ours, but he’s hardly someone a young lady should be alone with for any length of time.” Her unwavering gaze remained critical. “Where is your family? I hope you don’t mind these questions.”

“I ran away. They wanted me to marry Joseph, and I refused.”

“Good girls do as their families ask.”

“I know, but … you don’t know Joseph. He’s not someone I could ever love or live with. I’m sorry, if you think ill of me now, but it can’t be helped. I’m the only one to blame for my tarnished reputation.”

“Mr. Brittle’s been running wild for too long. I once thought he might offer for Anna, but he never did. I wouldn’t object to him being my son-in-law, because we’ve known him for so long and he’s a trusted friend. He’s been helpful to us in many ways in the past. He fought with my husband against the Crenshaw gang. They’d stolen hundreds of head of cattle from our land. It was a dangerous time to be in the cattle business. It still is.”

“I didn’t know that.”

“He left to work for Mr. Kelly afterwards. I thought he might take Anna with him. He’s a terrible flirt.”

Anna grinned. “A girl does need to be careful around Mr. Brittle, but he’s rather harmless. He would never … well … ” she blushed slightly, “force himself on a woman. He does kiss quite a few of the girls.”

That warning had come too late, I mused. “I was cautioned by Mrs. Lola Kelly. I guess she’s not all that fond of him.” A shadow appeared in the doorway. It was Chuck. I sprang to my feet. “What happened? Are we under attack?”

“They wouldn’t come any closer, scattering towards Albuquerque. Real lawmen wouldn’t have hesitated to approach. They’re a sham, through and through.”

“Will they go away now?”

He looked grim. “I don’t know.”

“Can we stay here until it’s safe?”

“That’s up to the Hernandez’s. It’s not my decision.” He glanced at Anna, grinning. “You’re as lovely as ever, darlin’.”

“Thank you, Chuck.”

I had never experienced such an intense feeling of jealously, but it seemed to be upon me now. I didn’t want to, but I glared at Chuck, realizing he flirted openly with Anna. Mrs. Hernandez approached us, smiling knowingly.

“This young lady says she hired you for protection.”

“She has.”

“Was it your idea she dress like this?”

“It was the only way out of the hotel without being seen.”

To think that I had begun to soften towards him, to even feel something for him, this realization appalled me. “I should change into something more appropriate.” I sounded cold, detached. “I’d be obliged, if you had a skirt and blouse.”

“We do,” said Anna. “You can share my things. We’re about the same size.”

Chuck’s frown creased his forehead. “Was it somethin’ I said?”

Mrs. Hernandez’s laughter rang out. “You’ve a great deal to learn about women, Mr. Brittle, but it’ll be entertaining watching you figure it out.”

T
he danger had passed
, the men in pursuit had gone, and all that remained was washing up and preparing for dinner, and, from the aroma that permeated the hacienda, it promised to be delicious. The sun had set, while I readied myself in a small bedroom. A lantern provided light, while I fussed with my hair, and, in a fit of frustration, I left most of it hanging down my back. Not having Tory to arrange it, I had to manage on my own, pinning the front portion back and holding everything in place with the few pins I had left.

A knock on the door startled me. “Yes?”

Chuck appeared, and he grinned as soon as he saw me. “
Eres hermosa
.”

Anna had given me a full, flowered skirt with a frilly white blouse. “Thank you.” I muttered, “You say that to all the girls.”

He came up behind me, as I stood before a mirror. “Is everything all right? I thought you’d be happy we were safe and sound. Looks like there’s gonna be a feast tonight. Mariachi players have arrived to provide music.” His hands rested on my shoulders. “There’s wine and whiskey and any drink you want.”

I shrugged him off. “How nice. You can enjoy that with Anna.”

“I’d rather drink with you. I’d rather ride with you. I’d rather … never mind.”

I watched him through the mirror. “Thank you for seeing me to safety.”

“But we’re not outta the woods yet. I got a bad feeling still. That was too easy.”

“Joseph is waiting out there somewhere. Isn’t he?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Turning around, I gazed at his handsome face. He had taken the time to groom, having shaved. “How long can we stay?”

“A couple of days, I suppose. I gotta think of our next step. We can’t hide out here forever. I’ve got to get back to my business eventually.”

“I need a husband.”

“That’s not gonna save you, sweetheart. This fella seems determined to find you and take you back. It won’t matter, if you got a ring on that finger or not.”

“I never thought I’d say something like this out loud, but if he doesn't stop this, he must be … be ... ”

“Killed?”

I nodded.

“That can be arranged.”

“I just want to live in peace, but I want to choose the life I want.”

“You could head west to California. You’ve got enough money.”

“I do, but I like the New Mexico Territory just fine. I think it’s beautiful. I adore the blue skies, the sunshine, and the open spaces.”

“From what I hear, California’s beautiful too. It’s got redwoods and ocean. Can’t beat that.”

“But a mountain range and a desert stands between us.”

“The days of covered wagons are long gone, honey. You’d be there by train in no time.” He wasn’t smiling any longer. “Something else is bothering you. If I didn’t know better, I’d say you were jealous of Anna, but you shouldn’t be. I might’ve kissed her a long time ago, but it never went further.”

“Is there a woman in these parts that you haven’t kissed?” My hands went to my hips.

“You are jealous.” A gleam entered his eye. “Interesting.”

Frustration had me pacing to the bed and back. “I could never trust a man like you. Why can’t you be someone I could trust?”

“What makes you say you can’t? Haven’t I behaved gentlemanly during our little trip together? Have I done anything that’s crossed the line? That day in the stairwell was unforgivable, but I’d kiss you all over again, if I had the chance. You’re my ideal woman, Evie. It was like God read my mind or somethin’. He sent me the exact image of what I wanted, but you’re so much more than that. You’re smart and spunky and fearless and opinionated. I love everything about you.”

“You’re very good at this.”

“At what?”

“Saying exactly what a woman wants to hear.”

“I’m speaking my mind. I didn’t rehearse this discussion. If you want a husband, I’d be more than happy to marry you—if we survive.”

The sudden thickening of my throat prevented me from speaking. I had stopped pacing, staring at him.

“I told you I was tired of playing games. I’m tired of chasing skirts. I’m tired of bein’ drunk five nights a week and blowing my wages on cards and saloon girls. I got better things to do with my time and money now. If you decide to stay here, you should consider my offer.”

“Can I trust you not to run around?”

He sat on the bed, thrusting fingers through his hair. “You need to get to know me. I’ll prove myself in time, but, yes, you can trust me.”

“Even when I’m fat with pregnancy and grumpy? You won’t go off with some … some woman.”

“I’d like to see you like that. I’d like to be the one to put you in that condition.”

“This is a serious matter, Chuck.”

“I’m very serious.” His grin was lopsided. “Come here.” I approached slowly, warily, not knowing what he would do. When I stood at arm’s length, he grabbed me, pressing his face to my belly. “You smell so nice.”

“Rose water.”

“No, it’s you I smell. You don’t need perfume. You’re just perfect.”

“That’s not true. Everyone needs soap and water or else they’d smell terrible.” I placed my hands on his shoulders. “You smell nice too.”

“Don't get too used to it. I’ll stink again soon enough.”

I giggled, “I don’t want to think about it.” He pulled me nearer, until I sat in his lap. “Oh!” We were only inches apart now.

“I’ve never been so impressed by anybody. You didn’t complain once during our ride across the desert, and you slept outdoors just like a man. I know you like the territory. I can see it in your eyes when you’re looking at things. You’d make a good rancher’s wife, but I gotta teach you how to shoot.”

“I want to learn, so I can protect myself from Joseph.”

“He’s stirred up enough trouble. I don’t know if Sheriff Ballew’s been informed about your fugitive status, but he’s liable to be looking for you as well. He needs to know it’s not true, but it’ll take a telegraph or two to discover that.”

“I don’t want to worry about it right now, Chuck.” I sounded slightly breathless, while a sense of lethargy and euphoria crept over me, along with other desires. “You could kiss me again. I won’t slap you.”

His lips touched mine, igniting a fireball of sensation, my arms wrapping around his neck. I squirmed on his lap to better position myself, inhaling his sweetly fresh scent, as his tongue gained entrance into my mouth, seducing me with each stroke. It would be far too easy to agree to marry him, and I had a suspicion I might not be able to resist, if he asked me again. My every instinct told me he was trustworthy and honorable. Everyone deserved another chance. After all, it was well-known that reformed rakes made the best husbands. Where had I read that … ?

“Excuse me,” said a female voice. “I’m sorry to intrude.” Mrs. Hernandez stood in the room with a bemused expression on her face. “Dinner is nearly served. We’ve been waiting for you.”

Chuck reluctantly let me go, saying, “Your timing is terrible, Patricia.”

“I can see this young lady’s succumbed to your charms, Mr. Brittle.”

“Who can resist me?”

Embarrassed, I could hardly look at our hostess. “I had a momentary lapse of judgment.”

“I knew there was something between you. It would warm my heart if you married, Chuck. I’ve been praying for this outcome for many a year.”

He grinned broadly. “Now, there’s an idea.”

“Let’s not put the cart before the horse,” I murmured.

“You seem to have plenty of suitors, Evelyn. What will you do with the one that’s following you?”

“Good question,” I grumbled. “I’d prefer he left me alone.”

Chuck got to his feet. “Let’s go eat. It’s rude to keep people waiting. We’ll talk about this later.” He held out his hand.

I placed mine in his. “Whatever’s cooking smells divine. Lead the way.”

The flickering light of lanterns danced off the adobe walls, while the sound of mariachi musicians filled the courtyard. Two tables had been set with mismatched chairs and colorful crockery. Additional lanterns stood in the center, while Alejandra and Silvia brought out several dishes filled to the brim with delicious fare. I sat next to Chuck, while the Hernandez family settled in around us. The conversation remained light and jovial; the mood was relaxed.

“Pablo followed the trail for as long as he could,” said Pedro. “They’re in Albuquerque now or elsewhere.”

“Are your men at the cantina tonight?”

“Most assuredly. They’ve been wanting a night off for a while, but they best not stay too late. Several remained behind, because I can’t leave the hacienda unprotected, especially not now.”

Mr. Hernandez’s older son, Ricardo, said, “I wanted to join them. It's not fair.”

“You’re not old enough,” said Patricia. “You’ve a little while yet before your father and I will let you do that.”

The teenager made a face. “I’m plenty old enough. It’s not a crime to drink a little tequila.”

“All in good time, Ricardo,” said Mr. Hernandez. “All in good time.”

I had eaten several tamales and a plate of birria, which had been appetizing. Sipping a sangrita, a warm buzz infused me, bringing a flush to my cheeks. Once the dishes had been taken away, Patricia and Pedro got to their feet and danced, while we looked on. They had been married for a long time, with nearly grown children, yet the affection they felt showed in the way they smiled at one another.

“Let’s join them,” said Chuck, standing and scraping the bottom of his chair against the tiles.

I found myself in his arms being turned around and around, while the lively refrains of some Mexican song played. The mariachi players sang as well, their harmony nearly perfect. I gazed at Chuck, struck by how handsome he was, even with tanned skin and wrinkles. His blue eyes sparkled with affection, while his grip tightened around me.

“I have somethin’ you might like.” Reaching into his pocket, he withdrew a shiny silver ring. “A woman came earlier sellin’ trinkets. I thought this was pretty.”

Stunned, I gazed at the finely crafted piece of jewelry, which sported a heart shaped chunk of turquoise. “Oh, my.”

“It’s not a real engagement ring, cause I’d like to get you something with gold, but it’ll do for now.” He slid it onto the finger on my right hand. “It fits rather well.”

I had not been expecting this. “What makes you think I’d accept such a thing from you?” That seemed to bother him, because his brows drew together.

“It’s a friendship ring. Hopefully, it’ll remind you of our adventure together.”

Gazing into his eyes, I felt myself softening, weakening, but I had to stay strong. “I hired you to protect me, Chuck. It’s hardly a friendship.”

“Do you have to be such a hard woman?” His frown was pronounced. “Can’t you just accept my gift and thank me?”

“Thank you for the pretty ring.” It was thoughtful of him to buy something like this. It had already warmed around my finger. Other pressing concerns plagued me, though. “I need to pray on the situation. It’s been a good long while since I’ve asked God for guidance. I think that’s what hampered my escape, honestly. I should’ve consulted Him first
before
I fled.”

“I’m sure you’ve had Him watchin’ over you this entire time, darlin’.”

“I suppose I have, otherwise I wouldn’t be here with you right now.”

“Try not to worry too much.” He drew me near, grazing my forehead with his mouth. “I’m not normally the most pious man either, but I’ve been doin’ my fair share of praying these days. I got a sixth sense about things. We got some trouble to get through yet, Evie.”

“When can we go to town?”

“Not for a while. We gotta lay low, honey. Why?”

“I long to go to church. I need to talk to someone, and I need to pray. I haven’t been in ages. It would comfort me to have that support, especially at this time of uncertainty.”

“I’ll see what I can do. The Hernandez’s go to town frequently to get supplies and things. They’ll know the safe routes.”

I snuggled into his chest, sighing. “It’s beautiful tonight.”

“It is.”

“Thank you for bringing me here.”

“Don’t mention it.”

“Thank you for the ring.”

“You’re welcome.”