Page 63 of Wagon Train Redemption
Angela shook her head. “Doesn’t suit him.”
“Better than mouse though.”
“I agree.”
They stared at the animal.
“I’ve got it.” Angela clapped her hands, and the dog jumped up, wagging from one end to the other. “Boss. We can call him Boss. What do you think?”
“I like it, but we better ask him.”
“It’s good to know I’m not the only one who thinks he understands us.” She bent toward the dog. “Would you like to be named Boss?”
He licked her cheek and wagged.
“Yup. He likes it.”
Laughing together with Boss trotting behind them, they hurried after the wagons that were far ahead.
She slowed to look at Boss. “He’s an awfully nice dog to belong to an outlaw.”
“I thought the same.” Carson rubbed his hands along the dog’s back. “I didn’t find any evidence that the dog had been abused. He’s friendly and good-natured. I believe he will also be a good guard dog.” He straightened to consider her. “I will find it comforting to know he’ll watch over you when wemove to the farm, Partner.”
“I will too.” He’d called her friend, partner, and wife. A husband, a dog, and a home. Could she expect life to get any better? She wasn’t going to ruin it by telling him about her past. She could see no way he would ever find out accidentally. Ma wouldn’t say anything. She left that up to Angela. No, the secret was safe.
Fifteen
Carson chuckled at Boss paddling in the stream, chasing minnows and yapping when they escaped. He might have told him it was useless to try and catch them, but one thing he’d learned about the dog: he was a mite stubborn at times.
The last few days had passed pleasantly. Ma and Gabe insisted Boss be tied when he was around the others, and the dog submitted quietly as long as Carson or Angie were nearby. He howled and barked if they left him behind.
Angie joined him to watch Boss. “Sometimes he’s like a big overgrown boy.”
“Since you mention it, I see he and Bertie have similar personalities. Big in body, young at heart.”
Laughter rolled from Angie. Boss paused long enough to look at her, then returned to his fishing. She contained her merriment so she could speak. “Tell Bertie that. Or better yet, tell Ma.” More bubbling laughter.
“I think I won’t.” He gave an exaggerated shudder, and they both chuckled.
She liked to laugh, and he appreciated that. Being partnerspromised enjoyment. Married? It made him a little unsettled inside. There was no other way, but what if she didn’t welcome the idea? She’d never said anything about when they should tie the knot though they’d discussed plans for their farm—the big house would be two stories. They’d build it themselves with help from Robert and a few other friends while living in the small one he hoped they could get up before snowfall. They’d be stranded much of the winter. Just the two of them and Boss. He’d have a few head of horses to tend but not much else.
Those would be good days and nights, just sitting around a warm stove, cozy in a solid little home. She’d sew or read. He’d read or watch her sew, and they’d talk, making plans, remembering things from their childhood. Husband and wife had a nice ring to it. Promising a degree of acceptance and trust he’d never had apart from his immediate family.
A blade of grass tickled his cheek.
She grinned. “Where did you go?”
He caught her arm, whistled for the dog, and ambled alongside the creek. “This is my favorite part of the day. We’ve stopped for the night. The chores are done. Soon Gabe will strum his guitar, but until that time, it’s just the two of us.”
She snorted as Boss shook the water off, spraying it on them. “Don’t you mean the three of us?”
“He’s impossible to ignore.”
She patted the dog. “I can’t imagine why you’d want to.”
He playfully pushed Boss aside. “It’s you and me who are partners. Remember?” And soon to be more. He didn’t want to pressure her, but surely before they reached the fort, she’d say when she wanted to get married. He straightened and looked to the west. They’d soon be at their destination.
“It’s going to be fun to be married.” He ventured the words into the air between them.
