Page 57 of Mail-Order Brides Wishes
Bryn grinned at Flint wondering if he had the same thought about the child. Their gazes locked. Words of explanation came without forethought. “She wasn’t scared because she knew she was safe.”
“I remember Pa sayin’ a child’s trust was a gift.” Flint nodded. “Not somethin’ that should be wasted.”
“I agree.”
They reached the road where it was more open and wouldn’t hide any wild, dangerous animals. The tension drained from Bryn, and she sagged forward squeezing Susie so hard that she squirmed free.
Flint rubbed Bryn’s back. “We’s safe. Protected by God hisself, I’d say.”
“I’d have to agree.” She hadn’t forgotten her promise to God. When the time was right, she’d tell Flint who Susie’s mother was. And pray that Flint would forgive her for her failure to do so from the beginning. Her heart died a few beats at the thought that he might not want Rowena’s sister or her daughter. What if she learned that Flint’s heart still ached after Rowena?
The ranch buildings came into view, and she huffed out her relief.
Flint patted her hand. “I would never let anythin’ happen ta ya. Not if’n it was in my power ta stop it.”
His touch was warm. His palm work hardened. Strong. Like the man himself. She leaned closer needing more of him. His strength, his promise, his caring.
Susie strained forward, anxious to get to see her pet and Bryn’s attention shifted to holding the child back.
“She’d climb right out if I didn't stop her.” Laughter bubbled up. Filled with relief at getting home safely.
Flint chuckled and patted Bryn’s hand. “A girlie and her kitty can be best friends.”
“I’m glad Susie will have her pet. Thank you for making that possible.” The smile she gave him carried sweetness from her heart that swelled her throat.
“Anythin’ ta make her happy.” His pale eyes darkened with emotion revealing to her just how much he cared about Rowena’s child.
How could she tell him who Susie’s mother was without risking what she and Susie had found here? Could she expect Flint would care for her the same way he’d cared for Rowena? Rowena had told how he’d begged her to stay. Promised her anything she wanted. It wasn’t enough for Rowena. She’d left behind a man who’d given his heart to her and instead, chose a man who gave her a home but withheld love. The only good thing to come of that marriage was Susie.
Rowena had described how upset and hurt Flint had been at her rejection. That wasn’t a wound that would completely disappear. It might heal over but it would leave a tender scar.
They turned up the trail toward home, and she pushed away the thoughts that buzzed like angry bees. She’d made a promise to God and meant to fulfill it.
But not until she was sure Flint wouldn’t be angry.
Being alone with Bryn and Susie outside, sharing a picnic— those were special times that warmed Flint’s insides. Time together in the house was good too. Fact was, he liked being with them. But work called. He didn’t mind being with the colts. From there, he watched Bryn go to the garden or hang out the laundry or walk down the trail to visit Addie. And he joined them for every meal. But over the past couple of weeks, he’d had to leave them in order to do his share. Every second day, he and Jayce took turns going to check on the herd and the two young cowboys. Today was again Flint’s turn to ride out.
“I made them cookies.” Bryn handed him a tin. “I made you a lunch too.”
He took the sack. It was heavy enough that he knew it held sandwiches and cookies enough for him and the boys. Maybe there were even biscuits filled with jam.
“You take care.” She leaned in close for a kiss which he readily gave.
He’d grown used to goodbye kisses. Well, maybe not used to them. More like, he looked forward to them. ‘Twas about the only good thing about having to ride away for a few hours.
Susie waited for her goodbye hug. Another sweet thing about leaving. And knowing he’d be welcomed back with more hugs and kisses.
He’d never have guessed that being married held such joy.
He patted Susie’s head. “Take care of Kitty.” The kitten lay cradled in Susie’s arms. He never saw one without the other.
There was no point in lingering, wishing he didn’t have to go. It was his turn. At least he wouldn’t have to go again for anotherfour days. His feet heavy, he strode from the house and swung to the back of his horse.
Susie and Bryn stood in the doorway, waving as he reined away.
He lifted his hand in farewell, a lump of missing in the pit of his stomach then he faced forward. It was time to pay attention to what was around him. Jayce had said he thought he’d caught the smell of a campfire when he was out two days ago.
“Someone cooking bacon. I followed the scent for a ways but didn’t find anything or anyone. I must have been mistaken.”
