Rhett's lucky you're here. Nia said nothing, but she felt Rhett's eyes on her. That night, while they watched over the cattle, Nia brought up Voss's supply. If someone had purchased a large amount of phosphorus compound, Seth Voss might remember it. I'll go, she said.
Rhett shook his head immediately. No. Rafe barely knows me. He's seen you from a carriage and from a distance to him. I'm the Apache cook working on a dying ranch.
He doesn't think I matter. That's exactly why he could hurt you without thinking twice. Nia held Rhett's gaze, and it's exactly why he won't suspect I'm looking for anything. Clay Boon sat near the stable doorway without lifting his head. He said, "She's right.
Rhett shot him an irritated look. That isn't helping. I'm not trying to help. I'm telling you the truth. The next morning, Nia rode into Ash Creek with Hank Dodd in the supply wagon.
She wore her plainest dress, tied back her braids, and carried a real shopping list. Cornmeal, salt, beans, lamp oil, and a spool of thread. Voss's supply was crowded with voices. Mrs. Almakur stood near the flower sacks talking with Toby Lane, a young man holding his hat against his chest. They say Owen Keiel was out at Holt Ranch, Elma said.
Something about a water dispute, Toby answered. Ra's been after that property for months. Whole town knows it. Nia picked up a tin of lamp oil and pretended to study the label. Rhett won't sell, Elma continued.
But Rafe Crow never did understand the word no. Nia moved toward the counter. Seth Voss was a broad man with a trimmed beard and inkstained fingers. "Besides these," she said, setting down her supplies. "I need something for thistles.
Someone mentioned a phosphorus compound. Seth frowned. "Wouldn't use that on thistles. That kind of stuff is better suited for small pests. Dangerous, too.
He bent toward a lower shelf. I only keep small bottles. Had one large order about 6 weeks back, but that was special. Nia tilted her head. How large?
More than 20 lb. Seth stopped speaking as if he had suddenly heard the weight of his own answer. Buyer wanted it delivered fast. Didn't want questions asked. Who bought it?
The storekeeper's expression closed. I never gave you a name. Nia smiled politely. And I never asked you for one. She paid for her purchases and walked out without looking back.