Read Online Montana Dawn by Caroline Fyffe - Free Book Online Page B

polite enough, seeing to her needs, but he kept his distance all the same. She missed him. She missed the safe feelingthat just being around him brought. How lonely she would be once the cattle drive pulled out and left them behind.
    Today Colton was driving and he slapped the reins across the horses’ backs, urging them on. They were traveling alongside the herd following the chuck wagon again. Luke had been riding up in front and she’d been watching him for hours, daydreaming. Then he’d loped back, passing them, headed for the back of the herd. He’d tipped his hat as he’d gone by, but hadn’t stopped.
    Now he was back, approaching her wagon from the side. His plaid shirt, tucked neatly into his pants, and leather chaps protecting his lean, powerful legs was a welcome sight to Faith. With his hat pulled low, she couldn’t see his eyes. Behind him he led a small horse that wore a saddle done up with every gadget that the other men carried: hobbles, lariat, canteen, bedroll. The only thing lacking was a Winchester rifle.
    Luke fell in alongside the wagon. Looking to Colton he asked, “You want to ride back and see what Smokey is up to? I’m sure he could use your help.” He offered the smaller horse’s reins.
    The boy’s eyes lit up. “Sure.”
    “Just be careful,” Luke added. “Remember, your horse is only as smart as you are.”
    “Yes, sir, I will.” Colton handed the wagon reins to Faith. Copying the move he’d seen Luke execute, he climbed straight from the wagon seat into the saddle.
    “Her name is Firefly. She’s very gentle, so be kind to her.”
    Colton reined his new mount away from the wagon, smiling from ear to ear.
    “Be careful not to spook the cattle!” Luke called at Colton’s retreating backside. Then he turned to Faith. “She’s really, really old. I’d say he can’t get hurt, but the boy just might prove me wrong again. Let’s just say I’m pretty confident nothing is going to happen.”
    Faith was a jumble of nerves. Conflicting emotions warred within her. It irritated her that Luke had taken liberties where Colton was concerned. Again. He’d never, ever, asked her permission about anything concerning the boy, just doled out orders as if Colton were one of his hired men. Still, deep down she knew this was exactly what Colton needed, a good role model, so she shoved her annoyance aside.
    And, she was so glad to see Luke. Even if it was for just a few short minutes. Today was the last day she’d ever have with him.
    “We’ll pull into Pine Grove tonight,” he pointed out indifferently.
    “I know. Francis told me this morning,” she replied, closing her hands tightly around the reins to keep them from trembling.
    “What are your plans?”
    “To rest for a few days,” she said, “and then head out for Priest’s Crossing. You know, where my aunt lives.”
    Luke pulled out a paper and some tobacco from a pouch and started to roll a cigarette. “What did you say her name was?”
    She hadn’t. Was he fishing for information again? She’d been very careful not to divulge too much, wanting to keep her life to herself. If Ward came around asking questions, they couldn’t pass on something they didn’t know. But now it would seem very suspicious if she didn’t answer.
    “Penelope Flowers.”
    Having answered, she stifled a grimace. What kind of stupid name was that? Luke seemed to agree, for he laughed. The sound was rich and inviting, so Faith smiled, knowing how silly the name sounded. It was also good to be near him again, to hear his voice.
    “Really?” he asked. “That’s one interesting name. And she’s expecting you?”
    She looked up into his face. “Yes.” Oh, how she wished it were true. A relative, someone waiting for her. Someone whoactually wanted her. Longing ripped her apart, so she looked away before his keen eyes saw the truth.
    “From Pine Grove, Priest’s Crossing is a good three days’ ride north on horseback. Considerably longer in your