The ranch was enormous. There were records of cattle, property, and trading agreements. She found Taza outside. You never told me. He looked at the papers.
About the ranch, about how much you own. Taza shrugged. It wasn't important. It is important. Why?
Clara thought about it. Then she understood. She had fallen in love with the man before she knew anything about his wealth. Taza had wanted. You wanted me to know you first?
Yes. Clara smiled. You could have told me. You didn't need to know. She stepped closer.
I think I understand. Taza looked at her. I didn't want you to think you owed me because of what I owed. Clara's eyes softened. You already knew I was afraid of owing people.
Yes. She took his hand. I never felt like I owed you. Taza looked toward the valley. That was the point.
The following week, another challenge arrived. A neighboring landowner attempted to claim part of Taza's valley. He believed Taza would surrender rather than deal with the local authorities. Instead, Taza gathered the necessary documents. Clara helped organize the records.
She spent long hours reading property papers and comparing dates. The work gave her confidence. She discovered that she was capable of much more than she had ever been allowed to believe. When the dispute reached town, Taza prepared to go alone. Clara insisted on coming.
You don't have to. I know. She smiled. But I want to. Taza nodded.
They rode into Red Hollow together. The moment Clara entered the town, she felt old memories return. People stared. Whispers followed them. Some recognized her.
Some looked surprised by how much she had changed. She kept walking. Taza stayed beside her. At the courthouse, the landowner made his argument. He claimed the valley belonged partly to him.
Taza calmly produced the legal documents, proving otherwise. Clara handed the clerk the final records. The claim was dismissed. But before they left, Clara's former stepfather appeared. He looked older than she remembered.
For a moment, Clara felt the old fear. Then she remembered the girl beneath the cottonwood. That girl had believed she had nothing. Now Clara stood in the same town with her head held high. Her stepfather looked at Taza.
You took her from us. Taza didn't answer. Clara did. No. He stared at her.
I chose to leave. You don't know what you're saying. I do. Her voice remained calm. You told me I would never survive without you.
She paused. I survived. He looked away. Clara continued. You told me nobody would ever care about me.