He turned to Wyatt, his smile now openly malicious. Mr. Harmon, a pleasure. I'm sure we'll meet again. As the door closed behind the unwelcome visitor, Henderson turned to Wyatt.
That's him, isn't it? Lillian's husband, former husband, Wyatt corrected grimly. Legally, she's Mrs. Harmon now. True enough, but you know as well as I do that won't stop a man like that.
Henderson moved to the window, watching as Montgomery mounted his horse. He's heading toward town, not the cabin. That gives you some time. Wyatt nodded, his mind racing. I need to warn Lillian.
Get her and Emma somewhere safe. Take them to the line cabin up by Eagle Creek. Henderson suggested. It's stocked for winter already, and no one would think to look there. I'll send word if Montgomery returns.
Thank you, Wyatt said, gripping the older man's shoulder briefly. For everything, go on, Henderson urged. And Wyatt, be careful. That man has evil in his eyes. Wyatt rode back to the cabin at a gallop, his mind filled with plans and contingencies.
The sight of smoke rising peacefully from the chimney and Lillian hanging laundry outside, Emma playing on a blanket nearby, filled him with both relief and urgency. Lillian looked up at his approach, her smile fading as she registered his expression. "What's wrong?" "Charles is here," Wyatt said without preamble, dismounting and gathering Emma in his arms. He was at the main house asking questions. Henderson sent him to town, but he'll be back.
The color drained from Lillian's face. How did he find us? It doesn't matter now. We need to pack quickly. Only essentials.
Wyatt handed Emma to her, his voice gentling at the fear in her eyes. It's going to be all right, Lillian. I won't let him take you or Emma. Inside the cabin, they moved with urgent efficiency, gathering warm clothing, food supplies, and the few precious possessions they couldn't bear to leave behind Emma's crib was too large. But Wyatt carefully packed the carved horse that had adorned it, along with the family Bible where they'd recorded Emma's growth and milestones.
As Lillian packed, Wyatt retrieved his rifle from above the door and checked his revolver, ensuring both were loaded and ready. The weapons were a sobering reminder of what might be required to protect his family. "Where will we go?" Lillian asked, securing Emma in a sling across her chest. "The line cabin up by Eagle Creek. It's remote, well stocked, and defensible." Wyatt helped her into her coat.