Read Online Western Kisses – Old West Christmas Romances (Boxed Set) by Carré White - Free Book Online

rubbed her forehead. “You girls will run me ragged.”
    “I want a husband by Christmas.”
    “What’s this about husbands?” asked a stern voice. Pa appeared, dressed for hunting. “Who’s gettin’ married at Christmas? Is there somethin’ I should know?”
    “Nothing, Wilber,” said mother. “The girls are just talking.”
    “This isn’t about Mr. Hindman, is it?”
    I glanced at him, stunned.
    “What about him?” Mother had stopped folding to stare at him.
    “He’s asked permission to marry Willow. He came to me this morning, but I refused him. I’m not about to hand my daughter over to a complete stranger. I told him I’d have to consult with my family first.” He glanced at me. “Are you acquainted with this man, my dear?”
    My mouth hung open.
    “He’s asked for her hand?” Mother dropped the sheet. “By...mighty.”
    Father blustered, “Who is he? Who can vouch for his character? Is this person important to you, Willow? Is there something I should know? If so, please enlighten me.”
    “I told you!” shouted Leona. “She’ll be married by Christmas, and I’ll be an old maid by seventeen.”
    Mother sat on the bed, heedless of all the linen. “Heaven’s to Betsy, things are moving awfully fast. Well, if you wondered what his intensions were, you need not wonder anymore.”
    “Are you acquainted with Mr. Hindman, Willow?” asked father.
    “I am.”
    “What do you know of him?”
    “He’s from Ohio, and his wife passed away last year. He tried mining, but it was hard going. It’s not the best time of year for that sort of thing.”
    “Has he made you an offer of marriage?”
    “No, of course not.”
    “Why would he come to me to ask for your hand then?”
    “He’s in love with her,” murmured mother. “She’s equally smitten.”
    Pa scratched his beard. “Is this true?” His attention was on me.
    “I…don’t know.”
    “How do you feel about this man?”
    “I like him.”
    “He’s stayin’ in the attic room?”
    “Not anymore,” said mother. “He’s in number twelve now.”
    His brows drew together. “We might want to invite Mr. Hindman to dinner tonight. What are your thoughts on the matter?”
    “I think that’s a fine idea.” Mother beamed. “If he’s going to be family, we really should get to know him better.”
    Tears were in my eyes, and I willed them away desperately. This display of emotion was embarrassing. The love I felt for my parents in that moment threatened to overwhelm me. Pa, ever reasonable and prudent, would consider Mr. Hindman’s proposal. I was sure he would accept him, once he knew his character better. Guss wanted me to be his wife, and he had boldly approached my father about this. I didn’t think it was possible to feel this much happiness all at one time. I was firmly in the grips of something magical…and I prayed it never ended.
    Later that afternoon, Ellen and I were in the kitchen preparing a pig for dinner. “There’s someone who wishes to speak to Willow,” said Leona. “Goodness, that smells divine.”
    I glanced over my shoulder finding Mr. Hindman standing behind her. “All right.” I tried to tamp down the rush of excitement I felt, but it was useless. I wiped my hands on the apron, approaching them.
    “I’ll be folding napkins in the dining room,” said Leona, flashing a secretive grin before taking her leave.
    “I heard you’ve changed rooms.” We were in the hallway, which was rather dark, even at this time of day. “You look better, sir. The food and sleep agreed with you.”
    “It did.” His grin lingered pleasingly. “I’ve a favor to ask, if you don’t mind.”
    “Certainly.”
    “I’ve some clothing that needs washing—it all needs washing. I…could use a bath myself.”
    “Milly can take your things and launder them. I’ll tell Ellen to heat the water. We’ve a tub we can bring to your room, sir. It won’t be filled entirely, but it’s enough to be useful.”
    “Thank you.