Abernathy, Yates said formally. Would you mind keeping an eye on Miss Emma while I ask her mother for a dance? Be my pleasure, Betty replied with a wink at Faith. Come along, Emma. I believe I saw a gingerbread stand over yonder.
As they walked away, Yates turned to Faith, extending his hand. "May I have this dance, Mrs. Summers?" Faith hesitated only briefly before placing her hand in his. You may, Mr. Turner.
He led her to the edge of the dancing area, then drew her into a proper waltz position, one hand at her waist, the other clasping hers, with a respectable distance between their bodies. As they began to move to the music, Faith was surprised to discover Yates was an excellent dancer. "You dance very well," she commented, relaxing into his lead. Not what I expected from a rancher. He smiled down at her, his green eyes reflecting the lantern light.
My mother insisted I learn, said no son of hers would stomp around a dance floor like a buffalo, embarrassing himself and his partner. She sounds like a formidable woman. She was. A shadow of old grief crossed his face. She passed when I was 15.
Influenza. My father followed 3 years later. I'm sorry, Yates. You were so young to lose them both. He nodded, guiding her through a graceful turn.
It was difficult, but they left me with a strong foundation and the beginnings of what became the Circle T. I like to think they'd be proud of what I've built. I'm sure they would be, Faith said softly. Not just the ranch, but the man you've become. Something in his expression shifted, intensified.
And what kind of man is that faith? She met his gaze steadily, suddenly certain of her words. A good one, kind, honorable, the kind of man a woman could build a life with. His hand tightened slightly at her waist. Faith.
I've been thinking about what you said about partnership between equals, about patience. She took a deep breath. I don't need more time, Yates. These past months have shown me who you are, and I I care for you deeply. The music seemed to fade away as Yates stared down at her, wonder and joy dawning in his eyes.
Are you saying what I think you're saying? I'm saying yes to your courtship, to whatever may come after. I'm saying I trust you, not just with my heart, but with Emma's as well. For a moment, Faith thought he might kiss her right there in front of the entire gathering. Instead, he squeezed her hand and continued their dance, though his eyes never left hers.