He helped her climb onto the wooden seat, then settled beside her, giving the rains a gentle snap to set the horses in motion. "My home is about 4 miles outside town," he explained. "We can talk freely there, or I can take you to the hotel if you prefer." Amelia clutched her val tighter. Your home would be best, I think.
They rode in silence through the small town of Willow Creek. It wasn't much a general store, blacksmith, saloon, small church, and a handful of other establishments lining the dusty main street. Carrick noticed Amelia taking it all in with apprehensive eyes. Once they'd cleared the town limits, following the winding road that cut through golden prairie grass, she finally spoke. I lied to you, Mr. Montgomery.
Carrick kept his eyes on the road, his expression neutral despite the sinking feeling in his chest. About what exactly? In my letters, she continued, her voice steadying somewhat. I'm not. I haven't been entirely truthful about my circumstances.
The wagon hit a rut, jostling them both. Carrick steadied her with a hand on her arm, then quickly withdrew it. "I'm listening," he said. Amelia took a deep breath. I told you I was a school teacher in Boston.
That's true. But I didn't leave my position voluntarily. Her fingers twisted the handkerchief he'd given her. The headmaster's son. He developed an attachment to me.
When I refused his advances, he became angry. He told his father I had behaved inappropriately with him. Carrick's jaw tightened. And they believed him. She nodded.
My reputation was ruined overnight. No respectable school would hire me after that. I couldn't find work anywhere in Boston. A bitter smile crossed her lips. A ruined woman has few options.
They crested a small hill and Carrick's ranch came into view a modest two-story house with a wide porch surrounded by outbuildings and corral. In the distance, cattle grazed across the rolling landscape. So, you answered my advertisement? Carrick said, "Yes, but I didn't tell you about the scandal. I was afraid you wouldn't consider me if you knew."
She looked at him directly now, her tears stained face solemn. I understand if you wish to nullify our arrangement. I can return to town and take the next coach eastward. Carrick slowed the wagon as they approached the ranch. "Miss Foster, may I speak plainly?"
She nodded. I'm not much for games or pretense. Out here, a person's judged by their actions more than rumors. What matters to me is whether you were truthful about wanting a real partnership, about being willing to work alongside me to build something worthwhile. He gestured toward the ranch.