"Let's just say I have my reasons for wanting to leave town, too." "Nothing criminal," he added quickly, seeing her expression, but personal. She turned away, needing a moment to think. The proposition was outlandish, indecent, even. But as she considered her alternatives, a desperate clarity settled over her. She had no family left, limited funds, and now a ruined reputation.
A child would be coming in less than 7 months. What choice did she really have? When would we leave? She asked finally, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her. Tomorrow, if you're willing, Yates replied.
The sooner we're gone, the better for both of us. Delilah took a deep breath, weighing the madness of what she was considering, to leave with a man she barely knew to pretend to be his wife, to raise her child in the wilderness. It was either the most foolish decision of her life or the only path forward. "I need to know one thing first," she said, turning back to face him. The real reason you're doing this, not some noble talk about helping a stranger.
The truth, Mr. Hawkins. Yates was silent for a long moment, his eyes fixed on his callous hands. I suppose that's fair, he said finally. Truth is, Miss Prescott, I've been looking to partner with someone on this venture for months.
No man wants to throw in with a cowboy with more dreams than dollars, and no decent woman would consider living out there without a proper marriage. He met her gaze directly. You might be in a difficult position, but you're educated. You've managed on your own since your father passed, and from what I've seen, you've got more backbone than most men I know. Those are the qualities I need in a partner.
His honesty, however calculating it might be, struck her as refreshing after Frederick's betrayal. "There's something else you should know," Delilah said quietly. "The child? It's Frederick's. We were to be married anyway, but when I told him about the baby, he seemed pleased." "Then yesterday, in front of everyone, she trailed off, the pain still too raw.
A man who would humiliate the mother of his child doesn't deserve either of you, Yates said with unexpected vehements. Then more gently, the offer stands, Miss Prescott. As my partner in this venture, your child would have my name and protection if you wish it. Delilah walked to the window, looking out at the town that had been her home all her life. In the distance, she could see the church spire where her dreams had shattered just a day before.
What waited for her here but judgment and hardship? "Very well, Mr. Hawkins," she said, turning back to him with newfound resolve. "I accept your proposition. We leave tomorrow." The journey west was grueling, even in the relative comfort of Yates's wagon.