As they approached Cedar Springs, Bethany grew quieter, and Yates suspected she was thinking about the telegram she would soon send. He felt a similar tension building in his own chest, an irrational desire to delay their arrival, to keep her with him just a little longer. The town was bustling with its usual midm morning activity. They tethered their horses outside the telegraph office, and Yates escorted Bethany inside. The operator, a balding man with spectacles perched on his nose, looked up as they entered.
Morning, King Cade. What can I do for you? Miss Rose needs to send a telegram to San Francisco. Of course, just write out your message, miss, and I'll take care of it. Bethany hesitated, then accepted the pencil and form the operator offered.
Yates stepped back to give her privacy, but couldn't help noticing her expression as she stared at the blank paper. After a long moment, she began to write, her pencil moving slowly across the page. When she finished, she handed the form back to the operator who calculated the cost. That'll be 75 cents for the message. Yates stepped forward immediately, placing coins on the counter.
I've got it. Bethany looked as if she wanted to object, but then nodded her thanks. As they stepped back outside, Yates asked gently, "Everything all right?" "Yes, fine," she replied, but her voice lacked conviction. "I simply informed James of the robbery and my current situation.
Asked for instructions regarding continuing my journey." "I see." She squared her shoulders. "Now, could we visit the Witfields? I'd like to see for myself that they are well.
They walked to Dr. Sullivan's house, which doubled as the town's medical facility. The doctor, a friendly man in his 50s, greeted them warmly. Miss Rose, Sheriff Taylor, mentioned you'd been found. The Witfields will be delighted to see you. They've been fretting about your welfare.
He led them to a small recovery room where the elderly couple was resting. Mrs. Whitfield, a plump woman with silver hair, burst into tears at the sight of Bethany. "Oh, my dear girl, we feared the worst when you didn't return." Bethany embraced the older woman gently. "I'm so sorry to have worried you.
I misjudged the distance badly." Mr. Whitfield, his arm in a sling, smiled weakly from his bed. "The important thing is you're safe. We've been praying for you." The reunion was emotional with the Whitfields expressing profound gratitude to Yates for rescuing Bethany.
As they talked, Yates observed the genuine affection between Bethany and the older couple, and his respect for her grew even deeper when it was time to leave. Mrs. Whitfield pulled Bethany into another embrace. What will you do now, dear, about your situation in San Francisco? I've sent a telegram to James. I'm waiting for his response.
Mrs. Whitfield glanced at Yates, then back to Bethany with a knowing look. Sometimes life takes unexpected turns for the better, my dear. Keep your heart open to possibilities. The cryptic comment brought a flush to Bethy's cheeks, and she quickly changed the subject, promising to visit again soon. As they left the doctor's house, Bethany suggested they explore the town a bit before returning to the ranch.