Melinda Heads West (15 page)
“No! I don’t make a point of listening to shiftless, whining, worthless men.”
“Well,” Mindy said, giving him a pointed look. “I guess that’s part of my problem. I do.”
Boone’s face hardened. “All I got to say is that we’re leaving. I don’t know when I’ll be back. If you leave town before I … ” His hat went round and round in his hands. “I guess it was nice knowing you, is all!”
“Humph!” Mindy said again. “I’m not sure ‘nice’ is the word. But it was interesting, I’ll give you that!” Then she pictured Boone riding out of town and into trouble, and she leaned forward, grasping the doorframe. “You know those Bylers will be ready to fight anyone who tries to take that money. You’ll be careful, won’t you?”
Boone raised an eyebrow. “Does that mean you care a little?”
Straightening, Mindy recrossed her arms. “No more than I’d care about anybody else headed off into danger.”
Boone studied her eyes for a moment and then softened his voice. “To tell the truth, Min, I’ll be more worried about leaving you here alone, than going after those fellows.”
Mindy’s resolve melted a bit. What was it about this man that made her heart skip? Well, except that he was fine to look at, and was the sort of man that could handle most any emergency or situation. And there was the way he often looked at her with those black eyes that made her knees grow a little soft.
And of course, there was his kiss. “I appreciate your concern. But I’ll be fine. Thanks, though, for caring.”
“That’s just it, Min. I do care. I care a lot. More than I want to, to tell the truth. You got me so tore up, I couldn’t hit the ground with my hat in three throws.”
Mindy laughed. “Oh, I doubt that. I’ve seen you with that hat.”
“Yeah,” Boone said, meeting her smile. “I guess you’re right.”
“When are you heading out?”
“We’re saddled up and ready.”
“Oh!” Mindy looked toward the window and then back. “Now?”
“Yeah. I’ve been sitting too long as it is, waiting to hear from the stage company. The trail’s long cold by now. I appreciate the tip about Dodge City.”
“That’s all right. So, you’re leaving
right now
?”
“That’s what I said. Why? Do you need me to stick around?”
“No, of course not! I just didn’t think you’d be leaving … so soon.”
“Yeah. If I miss you, I wish you luck back in Mississippi. It was nice knowing you, Mindy. Real nice.”
“Yes, Boone. It’s been … It’s … ” Before Mindy knew what she was doing, she threw herself onto Boone’s chest, surprising them both. His arms instinctively came around her and his head bent to lie against her hair. She enjoyed a quiet moment and the pleasant sensation of being within the circle of his arms. “Take care of yourself,” she said. Her voice caught.
“Hey.” Boone set her away from him, looking into her green eyes, which were glassy and bright. “I’m going to be fine.”
Mindy reached out and touched the wound at his temple. “Yeah. You can’t be hurt, huh?”
“All I can say is that I promise I’ll be back. If you’re still here, you’ll see me again.”
Mindy collapsed against him. She wondered what her mother would think of her, being so familiar with a man, but decided she didn’t care. There was something about Boone that made her do stupid things. And there was something odd about herself, so that she didn’t give a hoot.
“Boone?” Mindy said, looking up into his eyes. “Would you kiss me again before you go?”
Boone looked shocked, but smiled and said, “I sure will. I’d be proud to.” Taking her face gently in both palms, he looked dead into her eyes. She took a step forward, until their lips were almost touching and their breaths met. “You make me crazy, Melinda McCorkle. But I’m finding that I seem to like crazy.” He closed the distance between them.
Boone’s lips were gentle as he brushed against hers in a sweet brief kiss. Mindy sighed as he pulled away. But he took another step closer. One strong hand went around her waist, while the other slid to the back of her neck, underneath her unruly mass of curls. He kissed her again. This time the kiss was deeper, more passionate, and Mindy leaned into it. In a moment they each turned greedy, seeking the comfort they might find in the other. It was a kiss that said what words could not. When he raised his head, Boone still held her near, breathing hard. “You make me crazy enough to eat the devil with horns on, Min.”
Mindy smiled. “You make me crazy, too.” She pulled away. “But I’m not sure it’s a good kind of crazy. I can’t think straight when I’m with you.”
“Then don’t think at all. Come ’ere.” Boone pulled her to him and kissed her again, gently. When he sat her back, he heaved a deep breath. “Well! That’ll give me plenty to think about while I’m gone.”
“Yeah. You’re leaving.”
“Sorry, Min. I … ”
There was a sound of boot steps approaching. Boone gave Mindy another quick peck and let her go. Not before Lucas had seen it, though. “Step aside, Boone!”
• • •
Boone turned to face Lucas. He was conflicted. He knew in his heart that Lucas was a good man, and he couldn’t help but feel that Mindy might be better off if she chose the other fellow. But he’d be horse-whipped before he walked away and let it happen. “I’m leaving, Lucas. I came to say goodbye to Mindy.”
“Looked like you were doing more than saying it,” the blond man said.
“I stole a kiss, is all. Don’t let it worry you.”
Lucas glanced at Mindy. Her face was flushed and she wouldn’t meet his eyes.
“Mindy, I came to ask you to have lunch with me. I wanted a chance to apologize for yesterday.”
“No, I don’t think so, Lucas. I’m sorry. I’m not very hungry,” Mindy answered.
“Perhaps supper, then?”
“Maybe. I don’t know, Lucas. I’m very confused at the moment.”
Boone settled his hat on his head. Confused! Hot dog! He could leave with a good conscience. He felt that if she were still here when he got back, he’d have a fine chance at courting her. If not, he’d chase her all the way down to Mississippi. It wasn’t that far away.
“Well, I’m off,” he said. He nodded at Mindy. “You take care of yourself while I’m gone.”
“I’ll take care of her.” Lucas answered for her.
Boone stared hard at Lucas. “That’s what I’m afraid of.”
• • •
On the trail later, Boone played the scene over in his head. The other two fellows riding with him kept trying to make conversation, but he wouldn’t have any of it. His mind was miles away. For the first time in his life, he was thinking about marriage.
June 23, 1880
Dear Elizabeth,
How I miss you! I must apologize. I never truly appreciated your friendship until my journey. Having to do without our visits for an extended period reminds me what a good friend you’ve been.
Oh, the things I need to share! This has been the most fascinating, horrifying, infuriating, extraordinary, wonderful trip. I have had such extreme highs and lows that I wonder I do not get seasick!
Please do not tell mother, but on the last portion of our stage ride here, we were left stranded by a broken wheel. Together with six other persons, all men, we set about walking toward our destination. It was abominably hot and tiresome — I can’t fully express the situation in mere words.
Along the way, we were set upon by thieves — who killed three of our men! — and we discovered that one of the men traveling with us was part of the terrible gang. He had been sent along as a scout I suppose. I was lucky to escape with my life. It was only owing to the bravery of the last two men that I am alive to write you this letter. I know you will worry, but I am fine. Above all, keep this information to yourself.
Allow me to tell you about the men. One is a tall, fair-headed, older man named Lucas Wilhite. He was a captain in the War Between the States, and is very brave and charming. We have been keeping company since our arrival in town. I can imagine how you read that with surprise! After all these years of waiting for someone to notice me! (I didn’t realize I had to simply leave my hometown to make it so.) Lucas is purchasing my uncle’s farm, and I expect him to ask me to marry him and settle there. I am considering it. He is a fine, stable man and I believe he would make a good husband and father.
The other man is also tall — taller than Lucas — and he has dark hair that is rarely combed. His name is Gary Boone, and he has the most amazing black eyes. We fight like brother and sister at times, and he can be most frustrating, but there is something about him that calls to me. He has recently professed his concern for my welfare, and possibly, that he has feelings toward me as well. Can you imagine? Two men who have found
me
interesting? My head aches with the thought.
Elizabeth, I will tell you a secret, but only upon our childhood honor of keeping certain things close to heart — I have allowed Gary to kiss me! More than once, I’m afraid. How was it, you ask? Heavenly! Though I suppose all kisses are heavenly as far as I know, but since these were my first, they seemed … special.
Boone is a marshal, and has a most dangerous job. He recently left Tipton in search of the murderers who robbed us. I pray for his safe journey and return. Along with the men riding with him, of course.
You would like Tipton, dear friend. It is larger than we are used to, and has everything a body could ask for. If I decide to marry Lucas, I believe I could be happy here.
Mother wrote me about a few of the things happening back home. I hope that Edward Hardy is recovering from his bout with the grippe. I can only imagine what torture he is putting his wife through, she being so dainty and kind, and he being such a brute. Owing to my brothers, I have learned how pitiful men can be when they are sick!
I trust Mr. Haygood is recovering well from his threshing accident. Poor man! Mother also mentioned Gertrude’s fine wedding. I am glad she finally got Robert to the altar!
As another surprise, Mother commented that Richard Peters has been asking about me. Can you imagine! He hasn’t given me the time of day since we were pups!
As to my return, I expect that it will be farther away than expected. There are so many details to work out. Not the least of which is my relationship with Lucas!
Until we can meet again in person, I remain forever,
Your dearest friend,
Melinda
• • •
June 23, 1880
Dear Mother,
I am writing to tell you what has happened since my last letter.
You will be happy to know I have found a potential buyer for Uncle Walter’s farm. As a matter of fact, I mentioned the man to you in my most recent letter. He is the Civil War captain, Lucas Wilhite.
There are many details to attend to; therefore, I do not know the date of my departure.
I thank you again for allowing me to undertake this journey. It has been most enlightening. Hope all are well. I send kisses.
I think of you fondly, and will do so until we see each other again. I remain,
Your loving daughter,
Melinda
• • •
Melinda had been invited by Becky to attend the weekly Tipton Women’s Club gathering on Thursday. She excitedly prepared for the visit and planned her outfit carefully, finally choosing a light green day dress with a small bustle and ruffled collar.
Mindy met Becky outside the meeting site, the First Congregational Church. The two talked in animated fashion about what had been going on since they last saw each other. Mindy suspected that Becky wanted to ask about what had happened when Boone came to talk to her, but the subject was never brought up. After all, it was a girls’ day!
Inside, Becky introduced Mindy to some of the more active members of the club: Mrs. Celia Logan, the chairperson, Mrs. Zora Ponder, the secretary, and Miss Merle Lacy, a newcomer with great enthusiasm. Mindy tried to remember all the names, but they soon began to blend together.
The meeting started and Mindy listened as the ladies talked about their plans for the upcoming Fourth of July celebration.
“We’ve sent the announcements to our neighboring towns. I took care of that last week, so we should have plenty of company,” Mrs. Ponder said.
“And I’ve heard back from Senator Watson and Governor Terry. They both plan to be here and have agreed to honor us with speeches for the occasion,” said Miss Lacy.
“Delightful!” Mrs. Logan clapped her hands. “Now, what’s next? Oh yes! Steven Knight has agreed to provide two cows and a pig for the barbeque, and Bill Daves of the fire squad has agreed to obtain the fireworks.”
The plans continued and Mindy grew more excited. She didn’t know if she would still be in town for the event, but it certainly sounded exhilarating!
Becky spoke up. “Mother and I, and Mindy here, will sew and hang the bunting.” She smiled when Mindy looked at her openmouthed. “You can sew, can’t you?” she whispered.
Mindy smiled and nodded, thrilled to take part in the festivities and have something to do. She needed to keep her mind off a certain man.
Rich and Lee Byler were knee-walking drunk. They exited the Peacock Saloon and lurched into their saddles. The time had come for them to face their mother. A bright, full moon lit their way as they eased toward home.
As they pulled to a halt in front of the old homestead, a run-down mud and frame shack, Lee hollered out, “Ma! We’re home!”
Rich lolled in his seat, grasping at the pommel with both hands before falling sideways from the horse.
Lee started laughing. “Hey, Ma!” he shouted. “Ma!”
A light flickered behind one of the shuttered windows and grew steadily brighter. In a moment, a tiny, gray-headed woman opened the door. She wore a nightgown, and carried an oil lamp. “What is it? What’s the racket about?” Her voice was shrill.
Lee hollered, “They’re dead, Ma. The boys are dead … ” He looked at Rich on the ground and began to laugh. “And we’re dead … drunk!”
The woman stepped farther into the yard. “What do you mean, they’re
dead
? Where are your brothers?” Her voice rose. “You tell me what you mean, boy!”