"That's impressive," Amelia said sincerely. "You've accomplished a great deal on your own," Carrick shrugged. "Hadel help from neighbors when needed. That's how it works out here. Everyone pitches in."
He hesitated. "Speaking of neighbors, the Brennan have invited us for Sunday dinner after church. Martha's eager to meet you. I told her we'd come, but if you're not comfortable, no. That sounds lovely, Amelia interjected.
Though the thought of facing strangers made her stomach tighten. Are there many families nearby, not what you'd call nearby by eastern standards? Brennan's are closest, about 3 mi east. Thompson Place is 5 mi north. Towns growing, though, new families arriving every month.
He studied her across the table. It can be isolating out here. That's something to consider. The implication was clear this was her chance to reconsider before any formal commitment. I understand isolation, Mr. Montgomery, she said quietly.
In some ways, it seems preferable to being surrounded by people who judge without knowing. He nodded, seeming to accept this. There's something I should show you," he said, rising from the table. He disappeared into the parlor, returning with a folded paper which he placed before her. It was a deed to the ranch with both his name and a blank space where hers would go.
"If we marry," he explained, half of everything becomes yours. I had the lawyer draw it up last month. I want my wife to be a true partner, not a housekeeper who works without stake in what we build. Amelia stared at the document, speechless. In Boston, married women had no legal right to property.
Here, this virtual stranger was offering her security that most women, even in the highest society, could never claim. Why would you do this? She finally asked. Carrick's expression remained serious. Because ranching is hard.
Days are long. Winter's brutal. If someone's going to face that alongside me, they deserve equal share in the rewards. He reclaimed the paper. Think on it.
No decision needs making tonight. After dinner, Carrick insisted on washing the dishes while Amelia dried them. The domestic task performed together felt strangely intimate. When their hands accidentally touched passing a plate, Amelia felt her cheeks warm. I should retire, she said once they'd finished.
It's been a long day, Carrick nodded. Breakfast is usually at sunrise. But sleep as long as you need tomorrow. You've traveled far. Upstairs in her room, Amelia sat on the edge of the bed, overwhelmed by the day's events.