Read Online A Walk in Heaven by Marie Higgins - Free Book Online Page A

Joshua shook his head. Because his brothers never used those words, Joshua knew that woman had certainly beguiled Peter and Gage just as she’d done Matthew. Somehow they must have forgotten how they’d sided with him at the dinner table the day they’d received Careen’s telegram.
    The calf squirmed beneath Joshua’s hands and he clamped tighter to the animal’s legs. Once Peter branded him, squeals from the animal rented the air. Joshua released the animal, and the calf darted toward the herd.
    Overhead a golden eagle soared, momentarily casting a shadow upon Joshua’s face. He lifted his gaze to the bird. They were amazingly beautiful creatures. This whole land was a testament of God’s blessings. Joshua would never get tired of seeing such beauty, which the Lord had created.
    The Lord giveth , and the Lord taketh away. Joshua only wished the Lord hadn’t taken his brother.
    “I think we’re ahead of schedule, don’t you?” Gage asked.
    Joshua turned his head and focused on his brother. “What schedule?”
    Gage rolled his hazel eyes. “Preparing the steer for the cattle drive.”
    Peter pulled another animal over, so Joshua held the calf tightly. He nodded to Gage. “Oh, that. Yes, we are ahead of schedule.”
    “I’ve been thinking about what we could do different this year to bring excitement to the drive,” Peter said.
    “And what have you decided?” Gage asked.
    Peter grinned. “Well, because of our new houseguest, I’ve been thinking of inviting her to go with us. I’m sure she doesn’t know what goes into a cattle drive and she might be interested in learning. Not only that, Jackson hurt his hand the other day. He’ll need assistance in cooking the meals, and I’m sure Careen will be very helpful. Do you think Ma will let us take Careen with us?”
    “What in tarnation are you talking about?” Joshua scowled. “Why would anyone in their right mind take a female on a cattle drive?”
    Peter shrugged. “For her company, of course.”
    “Let’s remember,” Joshua continued, pretending he didn’t hear his brother’s comment, “that she was not raised around cattle like we were, and she has always lived in a big city. I don’t even know how skilled she is on a horse.” He straightened and took off his hat, swiping his gloved hand across his sweated brow. “Knowing all of this, why would you think she’d want to come with us?”
    “I was just voicing my thoughts,” Peter snapped. “I was thinking of poor Jackson and how he’ll need help. I also happen to think Careen is enchanting and would probably like to see the way we live.”
    “Well, I suggest we don’t even ask.” Joshua placed his hat on his head and reached for the next calf. “If Careen goes with us, we’ll for sure have to pull the privy in the wagon along with us.” Gage snorted a laugh. “Don’t think for one second,” Joshua continued, “that she’s going to squat behind a bush when she feels the urge. And I don’t even want to be around when she gets dirt underneath her nails or if her hair is windblown.” He stopped and took in the scowls of his brothers. “And what would happen if a bug crawled in her bedroll during the night? I’m certain she’d rain curses on us all until the end of time.”
    Peter slugged Joshua’s shoulder. “Quit being so crude. I’m sure she won’t complain and she definitely won’t do what you’re thinking. She can ride with Jackson in the cook’s wagon. I know old-man Jackson will love to have someone to chat with during the drive.”
    “Are you kidding?” Gage finally spoke up. “Why would she want to ride in a wagon? All the fun of a cattle drive is being on a horse, controlling the cattle as we move them.”
    Peter shook his head. “I doubt she’s been trained to ride horses like we have.”
    “And I doubt,” Joshua cut in, “that the two of you are thinking clearly about this. Have you forgotten what she looked like yesterday when I brought her from the