Read Online Spoiled Evelyn (The Mail Order Brides of Boot Creek Book 4) by Carré White - Free Book Online

down eventually. Being up to all hours of the night isn’t all that beneficial when I’m running a business. I’ve some big plans for my future. I’ve got nearly eight hundred acres of prime grazing land, bought and paid for. I ordered three hundred head of cattle. I’m ready for a little success, Evie.”
    “I’m happy for you.” I meant that, meeting his gaze. “But don’t call me Evie.”
    “Evelyn.”
    “Not that either. It’s Miss Warner.”
    “How about Mrs. Brittle?”
    My mouth fell open, but, before I could say anything, Percy appeared. “Hello, my dear. There you are.” He glanced at Mr. Brittle. “Hello, sir.” His smile fell.
    Chuck got to his feet. “I was just keepin’ the seat warm for you, Mr. Vanguard. Y’all have a nice lunch.” He glanced at me. “You think about what I said.” With that, he left.
    “What was that about?” asked Percy taking the seat.
    “Well, I’m not married yet and without protection. He offered to work for me.”
    Percy frowned. “He’s the worst possible choice for a young lady. He’s more likely to molest you than watch over you.”
    I reeled from the things Chuck had said, and that statement added to my distress, but other matters pressed upon me. I remained certain my father or Joseph had found me. That man in the dark frock coat continued to linger, having taken a table across the room, where he sat by himself. He had more than likely telegraphed my whereabouts, and my family had been notified.
    It was difficult to appear light and gay for Percy, the smile on my face feeling forced. We were able to have lunch and discuss our plans for the evening, as he wanted to take me on a carriage ride at sunset and then to dinner. I wished I felt something more than friendship for him, because he was a lovely person and kind and giving, but it remained impossible. Once our meal had concluded, we bid each other goodbye, while I searched the dining room for the mysterious man, not seeing him. As I wandered through the foyer, I did not perceive him here either, heading for the stairs. I hadn’t reached the first landing when a hand shot out capturing my wrist.
    “Oh!”
    “Have you thought about my offer?” Chuck Brittle stood before me, grinning.
    “Why are you lurking in the shadows?” My belly had flipped over with distracting little flutters.
    “I was waiting for you. I know you’re on the third floor. I’ll escort you up.”
    “What if I don’t want you to?”
    “Go on and slap me. I dare you.” He thrust out his chin. “Right in the kisser. I can take it.”
    The last hour had been taxing, and I had fought the urge to chew my nails down to nothing. I had wanted to return to my room and gather my thoughts. The last thing I wished for was more stress.
    “All right. You may escort me, but do not touch me.” I moved away from him, snatching my hand back. “If you are to be in my employ, there will be several rules you must follow.” Was I really going to hire him?
    He stepped in behind me. “I think I’m gonna like taking orders from a woman. I can tell you’re good at being bossy.”
    I ignored that. “There are some things you should know about me.”
    “I’ll be an apt pupil. You can teach me anything.”
    I stopped, turning to stare at him. “The first thing is silence. Do be quiet, sir.”
    He clamped his lips together, nodding.
    “Now,” I took another step, “I will not be disrespected. I’ll always have final say in all decisions and I reserve the right to dismiss you at a moment’s notice.” He followed me, until we reached the third floor. “And, under absolutely no circumstance are you allowed to kiss me.” I neared the door. “Now you may speak.”
    “Yes, ma’am.”
    We entered the room, finding Tory sitting and reading. “This is Mr. Brittle.”
    She got to her feet, her expression confused. “Hello.”
    “I’m being followed.”
    Chuck glanced around the room. “This is well-appointed. Fancy.”
    “There’s