A cowboy could lose work that way, lose friends, lose his welcome in places where reputation mattered more than truth. Emmett picked up Scout's bridle. Then he can be angry. Nollie watched him saddle up. For the first time, she understood that Emmett's patience was not softness.
It was discipline. And sometimes discipline meant standing still. Other times it meant riding straight toward trouble. Emmett reached Blaine Harrow's ranch before noon. He had ridden hard enough that Scout's neck was dark with sweat, but he slowed before entering the yard.
Men were already gathered near the barn, talking in low, angry voices. Blaine stood among them. The moment he saw Emmett, his expression tightened. You come to tell me where my cattle went? I came to tell you where they didn't go.
That quieted the yard. Blaine crossed his arms. Careful, Knox. Emmett dismounted. I tracked those cattle yesterday.
Storm pushed them east. They went into the box canyon beyond Miller Ridge. One of Blaine's hands glanced toward his employer. Blaine did not move. You expect me to believe 30 head wandered off by themselves?
Cattle do foolish things in bad weather. And you're sure no Apache riders helped them along? Emmett's jaw tightened. I'm sure because I saw the tracks. Blaine stepped closer.
You spending time in that camp has made you mighty certain about people you barely know. Emmett met his eyes. This isn't about who I know. Then what is it about? The truth.
Silence settled between them. Out on the range, a windmill creaked. Blaine looked past Emmett toward the men listening. For a moment, Emmett thought the argument might turn ugly. Then one of the ranch hands spoke.
We found sign near Miller Ridge this morning. Blaine shot him a hard look. The man swallowed. Could be cattle. Emmett said nothing.
He did not need to. Blaine stared at him for several long seconds. Pride fighting with what he already suspected. Finally, he spat into the dirt. Fine.
I'll send riders. And you'll stop saying the Apache took them. Blaine's eyes narrowed. You giving me orders now? No.
Emmett picked up Scout's reins. I'm giving you a chance not to make a lie bigger. That landed harder than shouting would have. Blaine did not apologize. Men like Blaine rarely did.