She used to say education was the true mark of civilization. I would have liked your mother, Bethany said softly. She would have adored you, he replied with certainty. She always hoped I'd find a woman of substance and intelligence, not just a pretty face. "And have you?" she teased, her eyes sparkling in the lamplight.
He took her hand, his expression serious despite his smile. "I found more than I ever dared hope for." The moment was interrupted by a knock at the study door. Deputy Wilson stood there, his young face apologetic. "Sorry to disturb you, Mr. King Cade.
But there's a rider coming in. One of your hands recognized him as a messenger from the DoubleC Ranch. Yates frowned. The DoubleC was owned by Clayton Carter, a neighboring rancher with whom Yates had cordial, if not close relations. A messenger at this hour usually meant trouble.
I'll see him, he said, rising. Bethany, perhaps you should. I'm coming with you, she stated firmly, standing as well. If there's news about Decker, I should hear it. He nodded, accepting her decision, and they went together to the front porch where the messenger, a trailworn cowboy in his 30s, was dismounting.
Evening, Mr. King Cade, the man greeted, removing his hat. Name's Peterson. Mister Carter sent me with news he thought you should know right away. What is it? Yates asked, tension evident in his stance.
Army captured another of the Decker gang yesterday. Fellow was wounded. Talked plenty before he died. Said Decker's planning something big a raid on your ranch. He's got a personal grudge now.
Aims to make an example of you and take the lady. The cowboy nodded respectfully toward Bethany. Yates's jaw tightened. Did he say when? Soon is all we know.
Mr. Carter's sending five of his best men to help you should be here by morning. He said to tell you neighbors stand together. That's mighty generous of him, Yates said, genuinely touched by the gesture. Please convey my thanks. You're welcome to rest here tonight before riding back.
The messenger accepted the offer gratefully, and Yates instructed one of the hands to show him to the bunk house after he'd had something to eat. Once they were alone again, Bethany turned to Yates, her face pale but determined. "He's coming for me specifically." "For both of us," Yates corrected. "But it changes nothing.
We're prepared, and now we'll be even better defended with Carter's men." She nodded slowly. "I won't be the cause of bloodshed, Yates. If he comes, don't even think it," he interrupted, taking her shoulders gently. You are not to sacrifice yourself for any reason.