Spoiled Evelyn (The Mail Order Brides of Boot Creek Book 4) Read online

  Our meals had not arrived yet, but I wanted to freshen up. I pushed the chair back, getting to my feet. “I’ll be back. Excuse me.”

  Mrs. Kelly stood as well. “I’ll accompany you.”

  I smiled. “I’ve no idea where the washroom is on this floor.”

  “Follow me.” As me moved through the dining room, curious glances came our way. In the entrance hall, Mrs. Kelly said, “Please, call me Lola. Might I call you Evelyn? I love that name. It’s so pretty.”

  “You may.” I followed her to a door, which opened to another room. Inside, I found several porcelain sinks set in heavily carved furniture and a partition door hiding the loo. “I’m relieved to hear of your success in marriage. I’m hopeful for a similar outcome.”

  She turned to face me. “I ran away from intolerable circumstances, Evelyn. I couldn’t stay where I was. I had to trust God would not steer me wrong, and He didn’t, but it was difficult. It’s a long story, but suffice it to say, I made several mistakes, and so did Jack.”

  “I see.”

  “Chuck Brittle was one of those mistakes. My husband tested me before we met by having the train disabled and stranding the passengers. He sent Mr. Brittle to the rescue, but it was more to assess my character.” Not knowing if another lady was in the loo, she whispered, “He kissed me. He knew I was engaged to Jack, and, yet, he kissed me. I failed the test briefly, until I came to my senses.”

  “Goodness.” That was alarming. “Your husband didn’t trust you?”

  “Not before we met and not after. I had to earn his trust. But … there were other issues. It was a mess, but, if two people are meant to be together, they’ll surmount the odds and marry. I’m grateful every day for the life I have. It’s wonderful and perfect, and I adore Jack.” She grinned.

  “I’m glad to hear that.”

  “Just watch out for Chuck.”

  “What?”

  “He’s a good man, and my husband trusts him, but he’s the town’s Lothario. He’s shameless where women are concerned. I feel I should warn you, because you seem to have caught his eye.”

  “I … have?” If only she knew what had happened in the stairwell.

  “Oh, for certain. If given half the chance, he’ll try to seduce you. He’s charming and handsome to be sure, but he’d never seriously offer for a woman. I’ve seen enough to know he prefers his whiskey neat, his women loose, and his horses fast.” She glanced in the mirror, fussing with her hair. “Give that one a wide berth.”

  Chapter 7

  Percy and I hardly managed more than a few sentences of conversation, the dinner table lacking in privacy. He had pulled me aside once we left, saying, “I loath that I had to sit across from you. Tomorrow night, I wish to dine with you alone.”

  “Yes, Percy.”

  “I want to see you for lunch as well.”

  “All right.” I had glimpsed Mr. Brittle placing a hat on his head, as he headed for the exit. “Here at twelve then.”

  “I’m looking forward to it. We have a lot of courting to catch up on, so I can marry you next week.”

  My attention remained on Mr. Brittle. He spoke to someone by the door briefly, before casting a glance over his shoulder. He winked at me teasingly and then he was gone.

  “Evelyn?”

  “Hum … yes?”

  “I’ll bid you a good evening then.” He took my gloved hand, kissing my fingers. “Have a restful night.”

  “And you. Thank you for supper. It was lovely. I adored meeting Mrs. Kelly. I can tell she and I will be good friends.”

  “Excellent. She’s fine society, as is Mrs. Hershey.”

  “Yes, indeed.”

  After I had reached my room, Tory waited for me, having had tea brought up. “So, how was it?” She had changed into her nightclothes. “Are you forming an attachment to Mr. Vanguard or may I go pack now?”

  “I hardly spoke with Percy.” Removing my gloves, I sat on the edge of the couch. “Thank you for tea.” There seemed to be some sort of commotion in the street. “For heaven’s sake. What is that ruckus?” Getting to my feet, I drew back the draperies, peering out. A circle had formed around two men who were fighting. “Are they going to do that all night long?”

  Tory had joined me. “This town is uncivilized. No woman in her right mind would want to live here.”

  “I would appreciate it, if you could refrain from saying anything negative about my future home. I know you had anticipated the luxury of Mr. Cardcastle’s mansion, where even you would be treated like a queen, but I’ve no desire to marry him.”

  “You accepted his proposal. You’re wearing his ring.”

  “I was under duress at the time. I was forced to accept him. As for the ring, I left it behind. I don’t want it. It’s on my dresser. Mother can give it back to him.”

  “Don’t you miss your mother? Don’t you miss all your pretty things? You had the loveliest canopy bed with all those pillows you embroidered.”

  “Things aren’t important to me. I can always buy another bed like that. I can embroider more pillows.” Movement in the street held my attention. Someone had stepped into the fray, grabbing one of the men.

  “Quit it now, Buck, before you lose what’s left of your teeth,” said the man.

  I pressed my nose to the single-pane glass. “Well, that looks like Mr. Brittle.”

  “Who’s he?”

  “Someone the Kellys know.”

  “Oh.” She yawned. “I’m going to bed. You may stand there and look at the imbeciles all night long, but I need my rest.”

  I stared at the commotion for as long as it lasted, the men dispersing after a few more punches were thrown. Mr. Brittle stood with several men, and, sensing he was being watched, he turned towards the hotel, gazing up at me in the window. He tipped his hat, grinning.

  “I don’t believe I’ve ever met a bigger scoundrel,” I murmured to myself. Dropping the curtain, I stepped away from the spectacle, although it thrilled me that I had been seen.

  * * *

  Early the next day, once I had eaten breakfast, I intended to take a walk and explore Boot Creek before meeting Percy for lunch. Tory would stay and see to my laundry, while I grasped a parasol, anticipating a nice, peaceful stroll through town.

  The lobby bustled with new arrivals, and numerous bags of luggage were propped against the wall. People left as well, loading their things onto wagons and coaches. Once outside, I inhaled the freshness of the air, although it held hints of manure from the animals tethered nearby. Opening the parasol, I began to walk, intending to stroll down one end of the street, cross and then inspect the other on the way back. Shops had just opened, as welcome signs hung in the windows. I seemed to have caught the attention of several men, who stared at me from a distance. The women were friendly and smiled in greeting. After the livery and stables, I came upon the mercantile. There were several customers inside, with wagons out front. I closed the parasol, entering the building. Not needing anything, I loitered, gazing at the items for sale, including crockery and utensils. These were of a practical nature, with little embellishment. Everything was rather plain-looking and functional. The simplicity of the store was a far cry from Wanamakers on Market Street in Philadelphia.

  After I left, I continued down the boardwalk, my booted feet clunking on the wood. People passed, and I nodded to everyone as they greeted me. I neared the Meat Market, when a strange prickle ran down my backbone. Glancing over my shoulder, I spied a man in a dark frock coat who seemed to be following me. I had perceived him after the Billiard Hall, but I hadn’t thought anything of it. After crossing the street, I felt certain he would not follow, but he did. I hadn’t been in town one day yet, but the possibility existed that Joseph’s men had found me. Continuing on my way, I walked faster, intending to enter Vanguard Grocers to see Percy. The family lived above their business in a series of private apartments.

  The store smelled of onions and coffee, the walls lined with shelves, including the aisles. There were several shoppers holding baskets, while gathering the things they needed. I ventured past the canned goods and vinegar bottles, towards the counter, where Percy stood attending a customer.

  He noticed me, grinning. “Hello there.”

  “Hello.” I waited until he had finished with the customer, saying, “It’s a lovely day. I’ve been taking a stroll.”

  “You look fetching in that outfit.”

  I had worn a cream-colored bodice with a dark blue, bustled skirt. “Thank you.” A yellow brocade bonnet with blue lace adorned my head. “I had hoped to see your apartment.”

  “Now?” His eyed widened, as another customer approached.

  “No, whenever you’re able. I can see you’re busy. We’ll meet for lunch.”

  His smile lessened. “That’s a shame. I should have Harold mind the shop, and I could join you on your excursion.”

  I stood before an aisle of baking goods. “Don’t trouble yourself. I’ll see you soon enough.” As I turned, the man in the dark frock coat stood before the store, but upon seeing me, he continued on. Oh, who are you? Unease settled upon me. The feeling that something was off had sent my nerves into a heightened state of distress and suspicion.

  Once outside, I searched for the man, not seeing him on the boardwalk. As I approached the saloon, boisterous piano music spilled out into the street, as men skulked, laughing and talking.

  “Hey there, purdy lady,” said a nearly toothless man.

  “Can I buy you a drink, honey?” asked another.

  I lowered my head, not wanting to look at them. “No, thank you.”

  “Don’t see too many fancy ladies around these parts, do we Gus?”

  “Nope. Sure don’t. That’s one fine little doxy there.”

  Being sp
oken about in such a derogatory manner had stoked my anger, but I would not engage them, walking faster towards the Gazette, where I might purchase a newspaper.

  “You’ve got a shadow,” said a voice behind me. I turned to find Mr. Brittle, who tipped his hat. “Howdy.”

  Why did his presence please me so? “Hello.”

  His dark brown eyes skimmed over me. “You’re a breath of fresh air.”

  “I was warned about you.”

  “You were?” A brow lifted, while amusement danced in his eyes.

  “Yes, but what do you mean about a shadow?”

  “That fella who’s following you.”

  “Wouldn’t that be you?”

  “I saw you go by the saloon, and I came out.”

  “You drink this early?”

  “It’s nearly lunchtime.” He shrugged, grinning.

  I sighed, because this had confirmed my fears. “I do have a shadow.” People passed, staring in our direction. I moved towards the doorway of the Gazette. “I wondered about that.”

  “You look worried.”

  “I am.”

  “Who is he?”

  I bit my lip, not wanting to disclose my secret, but it was difficult not to. “I … it might be someone my … er … family hired.”

  “You’re a runaway.”

  “Not exactly.”

  “Lola’s family was after her. She escaped a bad situation, but it followed her. If you ask me, it looks like one of ‘em Pinkerton detectives. He’s got that beady-eyed look about him.”

  “I’m not a criminal!” I blurted, feeling angry and indignant at the same time.

  “But you’re hiding somethin’. I’m kinda partial to damsels in distress, though. I’d be happy to not only provide a shoulder for you to cry on, but I might be able to solve your problems too.”

  “I doubt it. I was warned to stay away from you.”

  “I bet I know who said that. Mrs. Kelly’s still sore about that kiss. I confess; I did kiss her. It was a bit of a test, you see. It was something Mr. Kelly hired me to do. Normally, I’d be happy to kiss a woman for free, but he wanted to know if she could be trusted.”

  “That’s just awful.” I frowned. “You’re despicable.”

  “But she doesn’t hold a candle to you. She wasn’t nearly as sweet as you. I don’t think I’ve ever had a kiss that nice before. I’d be willing to risk another slap or two for more kisses.” A devilish grin lit his eyes.

  “You can rest assured that I shall never kiss you again.” And then I saw him, the man in the dark frock coat. Sensing my distraction, Mr. Brittle glanced over his shoulder.

  “That’s him. He’s got Pinkerton stink all over him. A few of ‘em fellas chased me down in my youth. He wants something, all right.”

  “I should go back.” I would buy a newspaper at another time.

  “You need an escort.” This was not a question, as he fell into step beside me.

  My mind spun with unpleasant thoughts, as I craned my neck to see if we were being followed, and we were. “Drat.”

  “What are you runnin’ from?”

  “My family,” I admitted.

  “I see.”

  “And … and a fiancé.” Laughter resounded at this declaration. I should have expected it.

  “Oh, lordy, what a tangled web you weave. Does Percy know?”

  “No, and I shouldn’t have said anything.” I should have kept my mouth shut.

  “But you’re worried they found you.”

  “Yes.” My shoulders had slumped. We neared the end of the boardwalk, having to cross to the other side where the hotel was.

  “Why don’t you marry? Then you’ll have your husband’s protection.”

  “I suppose I’ll have to. Is he still there?”

  “Don’t see him. I think he knows we perceived him. I’m sure he’ll telegraph his boss and pass on any pertinent information.”

  “And then either Joseph or my father will arrive here.”

  “Joseph is the fiancé?”

  “Yes.”

  “I’ve never met a woman who had two fiancés before.” He grinned. “That’s rather greedy, wouldn’t you say?”

  “Go to blazes,” I muttered. We neared the hotel. “I shouldn’t have told you anything.”

  “What are you going to do?”

  “I don’t know,” I said miserably.

  “Are you worried about a kidnapping?”

  We had entered the hotel, strolling across the foyer, which had thinned out. “Yes, I am.” I stopped by the steps, facing him. “Mrs. Hershey knows about my past. I didn’t tell her before I arrived. I told her after. I lied to her. I lied to Percy. I don’t know if I can marry him.” Withdrawing my hand from its glove, I began to chew on a fingernail, which was unladylike, but my anxiety had reached new heights. I needed a distraction.

  Mr. Brittle stared at me thoughtfully. “Why did you agree to marry this Joseph person?”

  “My father forced me. He’s terribly rich and connected, but he means to keep me as one of his possessions. I can’t live like that.”

  “You’d rather work at a grocers?”

  “I don’t mind work, sir. I know you think little of me, but I came here to start fresh. I want to marry someone, but I feel nothing for Percy. He’s really just a boy.” Why was I telling him all of this?

  “Then he can offer you little protection. You need someone to manage things now, so you can find the husband of your dreams.” He grinned.

  “You’re incorrigible.” I had to smile, because it was difficult not to.

  “Why not hire me?”

  “You?”

  “Yes, me. I’m waiting on my house to be built and a shipment of cattle. I’ve got little to do but drink and chase women. I’m free to take the odd job.” He winked. “It might keep me outta trouble.”

  “I’ll think about it.” To my consternation, I glimpsed the man again, because he had entered the lobby. “I’m meeting Percy for lunch. It’s a little early yet. Why don’t we go in and talk?”

  He beamed enthusiastically. “That’s the best suggestion I’ve heard all year.”

  Chapter 8

  The dining room had not filled in yet, because the noon rush hadn’t begun. We were seated near the back, towards the kitchen, but I did not mind. A wall and a large fern offered a fair amount of privacy. Feeling disordered, I had chosen a glass of wine, not caring if it were chilled or not.

  “You’re gonna chew that nail right off, if you’re not careful.”

  I glanced at Mr. Brittle. “What am I going to do? I can’t stay here, if they’ve found me.”

  “Did you tell your first fiancé you’re not gonna marry him?”

  “In the letter I left with the ring.”

  “Some men need a little more closure than that. I’d get the message straight away, but rich men tend to be pigheaded. They need everything explained to them in detail.”

  “That’s because they are used to getting their own way. Everything normally falls into place for them.”

  “I think you’re used to that too. You seem awfully picky about men. None of ‘em seem good enough for you.”

  “You don’t know me well enough for such a generalization, Mr. Brittle.” My tone sounded harsh, but that had hit a nerve. “I’d appreciate not being judged by the likes of … of … someone’s who’s wanted by the law.”

  “That’s where you’re wrong. I’ve paid for whatever transgressions I’ve perpetrated on society. I did go to jail for a few months. My name is free and clear now. You’re judging me too, honey.”

  “Don’t call me honey.”

  “Do call me Chuck.”

  “Mr. Brittle,” I said sternly. “Why on earth would I hire you? What exactly would you do for me, besides trying to seduce me?” I glared at him pointedly, challenging him to disagree with that assessment.

  He leaned back in his chair, fighting a smile. “There’s something about you I like. I can’t quite put my finger on it. You’re beautiful to be sure, but there’s a fire there that appeals to me. I love spirited women.”

  I lifted my chin fractionally. “I can see straight through your flattery.”

  “I know my reputation precedes me. I know Mrs. Kelly isn’t happy with how I’ve behaved. I confess to it all and then some, but even a blackguard such as myself has to settle down eventually. Being up to all hours of the night isn’t all that beneficial when I’m running a business. I’ve some big plans for my future. I’ve got nearly eight hundred acres of prime grazing land, bought and paid for. I ordered three hundred head of cattle. I’m ready for a little success, Evie.”