Winter Winds of Wyoming Read online

  Violet sat straighter. “Not drinking too much, I hope.”

  “Not much at all. Just smoothing down rough edges after work.” Marlene wiped a tear as she gazed at Violet. “Had a distinct voice, one you could pick out anywhere—and a great, deep belly laugh that rumbled around the room. His shaggy brown hair often fell into his face. And he was kind to Jake, even though my son was just a tot. I should have been a better mother to Jake, like you were to your boy, Violet. Tommy was a good man.”

  “He’s still a good man,” Violet said forcefully. “Jist in some other place than here—and maybe not as young as he once was, but still my boy. Might be I even have a grandbabe or two.” She sniffed and again blew her nose. “If so, I hope I get ta meet ’em someday…”

  A tapping sound made everyone at the table look toward the window. Snow fell slowly in large white flakes.

  Beth appeared in the hallway, a carpetbag held in one hand and a box with a string handle in the other. She set the load on the floor and reached for her coat and scarf.

  As bitter and unpleasant as Beth had been to her since she’d moved into the Red Rooster, Adaline couldn’t stop a rush of compassion. The woman had lost her last friend in Violet, but Adaline wouldn’t fault Violet in the least for kicking her out.

  “I can’t carry everything at the moment, Violet, so I left a few of my belongings behind.” She wound a scarf about her head and neck and then pulled on her gloves. “I’ll return and—”

  “I’ll send ’em ta the mercantile!”

  Dalton looked at his bowl of stew and quickly scooped in several large bites of meat and potatoes. He swallowed and stood. “The snow’s starting in earnest out there, Miss Fairington. I’ll help you carry your bags to town.” He glanced at Adaline and then Violet. “Thank you for the meal, Violet. Everything was tasty. I’ll be back when time permits.”

  Violet nodded but kept her gaze trained on him and not Beth waiting at the door.

  Seeing Dalton don his heavy coat, do up his buttons, and reached for his hat, Adaline felt a loss.

  Finished, he picked up Beth’s bag and string-handled box, transferring them to one hand. When he opened the door, a burst of wind and snow swirled inside, crossed the living room, and swept both Dalton’s and Beth’s napkins to the floor in an icy gust of air.

  As she watched him pull the door closed, Adaline shivered. She was no closer to Dalton seeing her as a grown woman than she’d been before. And poor Violet, as stern as she acted, when Christmas rolled around, she’d be hurting over the broken relationship, as contentious as the friendship had been. If Christmas miracles were true, she needed one as much as her old friend.

  Chapter Twelve

  Early the next morning, Courtney rode into town with Chase Logan and Tyler Weston, the buckboard wheels squeaking on the snow-covered earth. They’d just turned onto Main Street and would arrive at the mercantile in minutes. Yesterday, Tabitha Wade, owner of Storybook Lodge, had invited her to stop by at her earliest convenience. When Jessie asked if Courtney would do an errand, Courtney decided to combine the two tasks. Doing something to earn her board and keep was important. She didn’t want to be a burden.

  Jake and Adaline were adamant she return to school when classes resumed after the Christmas break. Mr. Hutton had issued a personal invitation. Thing was, because of her past, she was no longer a child—and hadn’t felt young for months. If the townsfolk ever discovered her past, they might stamp a large H, for harlot, on her forehead. But that would never happen. Jake was the only one who knew, and he’d promised never to say a thing. Her secret was safe in Logan Meadows.

  Now, nestled between Tyler and Chase and enjoying the rhythmic rocking of the wagon, she let her gaze wander over the town. She spotted Jake’s mother making her way down the boardwalk toward the laundry house. Everyone knew Marlene’s past. Some folks treated her with disdain, but not everyone. Courtney liked her.

  Tyler drew back on the lines and the two horses, shaggy in their long winter coats, lumbered to a halt in front of the mercantile. The scene in the large window captured Courtney’s attention.

  A Christmas tree stood center stage, adorned with all sorts of clever gift ideas from inside the mercantile, each bedecked with a pretty ribbon or small colored wrapping that sent one’s imagination to play. A dainty china teacup hung from one sturdy branch of the Christmas tree. A can opener, potato peeler, hair ribbons of all colors, delicate hankies, some knitted socks, and a crocheted bib much too pretty to use all hung like ornaments over the branches. Maude Miller was a clever woman. Any fella, stumped with what to give his wife or sweetheart, would have an easy go after studying the tree. A shiny blue pocketknife caught her eye, and she instantly thought of Wil, who had a penchant for anything sharp.

  Wil is my past! Jake would love a knife just as much as Wil. When I’m finished with my errands, I’ll take time to go inside and examine the festive tree more closely.

  Glancing up, she found Maude and Beth watching her through the glass. The proprietor wore a wide-eyed look of anticipation, most likely wondering what Courtney thought of the display. Fabric as white as snow mounded beneath the bottom branches, and on top of that, several wrapped packages nestled together, giving the appearance Saint Nick had already arrived. Courtney smiled and nodded to the tree, and a wide smile appeared on the proprietor’s wrinkled face. “How long will you be?” she asked, huddled between the large men.

  Chase glanced behind to the tarp-wrapped side of beef in the back of the wagon. Other boxes and crates were there, too. “An hour, at most. Won’t take long to drop this by the butcher shop, visit the bank, and deliver a few donated garments for the poor to Reverend Wilbrand.” He smiled at Courtney. “When Jessie gets cleaning the closets, no telling what she’ll toss out. But, if you have a need, we can stay longer. First though, I’ll go inside to see if there’s any mail. I’m in no particular rush, and I’m sure Tyler would enjoy some free time in town. Better we drop you at the bookstore.”

  She liked Mr. Logan’s deep voice and kind eyes. He was so fatherly and yet, with Jessie, he seemed a young man. She often turned away, embarrassed at their frequent show of affection. “No, sir. I’m inspecting the window displays on my way there but thank you. After I visit Mrs. Wade at the bookstore and see what mysterious thing she wants to tell me, I’m taking these few garments Sarah’s outgrown to Brenna’s house for altering like Jessie asked. They’re intended for Maddie.” She glanced down to the small bundle in her lap. “I’ll be back here by eleven, if not sooner. I won’t be late.”

  Chase had already climbed down and helped her to the street. “No worries if you are, young lady. Town’s small enough for us to find you wherever you are.”

  Young lady? As she clutched the cloth bag of garments to the front of her coat, she cringed inside. “Thank you again.”

  Tyler sat quietly on the wagon seat but gave a nod as she hurried away.

  Courtney silently hoped Mr. Hutton wouldn’t be home when she stopped by. He had a one-track mind about education and a possible new student. Yesterday, in the middle of the street, even though they were there to decorate the Christmas tree, he’d good-naturedly quizzed her about her studies in Newport, what time frame in history she’d already studied, and what books she’d read for pleasure. If Brenna hadn’t rescued her, they might have stood there all night. If he was home today, he was sure to start another conversation. He was nice enough and meant well, like Father had, but she hoped any talk of school could be avoided. Her mind was made up. She wasn’t going back.

  Mr. Lloyd, looking as dapper as he always did but especially so on this chilly December morning, stood in the doorway of his bank, smoking a cigar. She walked forward, stopping beside him.

  He nodded and smiled. “Good morning, Miss Costner,” he offered in a frosty breath.

  She got the distinct impression he was waiting for people to walk by so he could personally show them his Christmas display. “Good morning, Mr. Lloyd.”
She smiled and obliged him by gazing through the large bank window. “My, your display is quite fascinating!”

  On the other side of the glass, a rectangular table had been pushed close and held an adorable winter village that looked exactly like Logan Meadows. Each small building was a replica of those on Main Street. She gasped and looked up at him in surprise. “Did you make these yourself? They’re astonishing. And see, here’s the bank!” She couldn’t stop a laugh of pleasure. The small buildings were carefully painted and placed strategically in the very position of each property.

  “Why, yes I did,” he replied. “A little hobby of mine.”

  Mr. Lloyd’s tone was filled with pride and pleasure. Wonder filled her. A grown man—and a businessman like Mr. Lloyd—carefully making, carving, and gluing. Bringing the miniature town to life with tiny details. “How long did this take you? I can’t even imagine.”

  “Most of two years. I’ve been planning for some time, sketching the buildings to get the correct dimensions and such—that is, after all my bookkeeping was done. I guess I’m more than a little proud of the finished product.”

  “As you should be! They look so real. I expect to see myself right here on the street looking in the bank window.” She pointed through the glass. “And see! There’s the bridge and livery.” Her voice raised a notch with each word. “And Maximus and Clementine! You’ve thought of everything. Storybook Lodge is so cute!” She hugged her bag of hand-me-downs to her chest. “I’m sure you’ll win first prize in the contest. I’d bet you could sell these for a large sum, Mr. Lloyd.” She was shocked with herself for having such a long conversation with a new acquaintance. “Did you ever think of that?”

  He laughed, his eyes squishing up from the movement of his cheeks. “I don’t have that kind of time on my hands, Miss Costner, but thank you. One miniature town is enough for me.”

  Courtney bid him goodbye and continued past the Bright Nugget, not daring to look inside.

  Winthrop Preston stood on the bridge, a shovel in his hands, chatting with Dr. Thorn. Nell Axelrose approached in a buggy with Julia Taylor, the young lady Gabe Garrison was sweet on. Maddie sat between the two women, her face pink from the cold. Both Julia and Nell waved.

  Courtney waved back. Seemed Logan Meadows was abuzz with the Christmas spirit. Although everyone had taken her in like family, Courtney felt more alone than ever. The secret she held inside kept her at a distance, always fearful someone would see the truth in her eyes. Oh, how she wished she could turn back the hands of time.

  Chapter Thirteen

  At ten o’clock exactly, and to the splashing sound of Shady Creek, Courtney opened the door to Mrs. Wade’s bookshop and stepped inside, the slight jingle of bells above making her smile. A cozy warmth chased away the chill of outside.

  Storybook Lodge was decorated beautifully. Evergreen boughs accented with red berries twisted down the bannister, bringing inside the fresh scents of outdoors. A chain of bright-colored paper circles, cut in strips and glued together, swagged around the shop, making the whole place feel like one large Christmas tree. On a bookshelf in the lending library, a two-foot-tall replica of Saint Nick guarded the area, complete with pipe, bushy white beard, suspenders, and tall black boots. More holly branches placed about made the shop cheery, and some cinnamon must also be warming on the stove. Either that or perhaps Tabitha was baking. That, mixed with the warm, homey aroma of thousands of book pages lovingly worn thin by constant use, made everything smell heavenly. Above Tabitha’s desk dangled a clump of mistletoe tied together with a red ribbon. A small tag hung low enough for everyone to read. Written in red ink: Hunter Wade Only.

  Courtney smiled.

  A door upstairs closed. A moment later, Tabitha descended the staircase, light as a feather on the breeze. She was as pretty as usual in a dark-blue, long-sleeved dress. A lacy shawl draped her shoulders. Everyone had heard the story of how she and her new husband had been exact opposites when they’d met—him a saloon-owning trail boss, and her a proper lady and lover of books. The match was strange. And yet, the newlyweds were inseparable, just like Jake and Daisy.

  “Good morning, Courtney. I’ve been anticipating your arrival.” She stopped halfway down. “I’ve just put out my sign and unlocked my doors. I’ll run back upstairs for the items I want to show you. I’ll only be one second.”

  What was this appointment about? Had Tabitha and Adaline arranged something without her knowledge? Or was this about more charity? She couldn’t take anymore…

  Tabitha reappeared at the top of the stairs with a small crate in her arms.

  Surprised, Courtney rushed up to help her. “That looks heavy. Let me take one end.”

  “Thank you, this is bulky more than heavy. I appreciate your help.” They clunked their way down without falling and set the container on the floor. Tabitha knelt and reached for the lid.

  “What’s inside?” Courtney asked as she knelt down beside her.

  “Some things I’ve collected for you and Adaline, all graciously donated from the women around town.” Tabitha lifted a dress from the top of the stack so Courtney could see. “It’s no secret you and your sister had to flee your home with just the clothes on your back. I know you’re expecting more of your belongings to arrive at some point. These few items will hold you over until they do. The women of Logan Meadows were delighted. Helping is in our nature.”

  Mrs. Wade had kept a bright smile on her face, but Courtney knew as well as anyone, this was her way of softening the charity being offered. Until now, she’d had a few garments from Jessie and Daisy, but she and Adaline did have very little.

  Tabitha continued lifting apparel: several dresses, some blouses, a plethora of undergarments that would be very welcome. The shopkeeper smiled and pressed her lips flat. Several knitted shawls and two coats were included.

  So plentiful, indeed! These garments would certainly make their lives easier. How generous of the women in town. “I-I can’t accept these,” she mumbled into the quiet shop. She thought of her father taking charity from Hugh Hexim.

  Mrs. Wade stood.

  Courtney followed suit.

  Tabitha reached forward and took her hands, giving them a little shake. “Of course, you can. We’d do the same for any newcomer to town. If the tables were turned, you’d help as well. One good deed deserves another, I always like to say. Aren’t you giving me the opportunity to stock your father’s books in my shop once they arrive? Now, let’s go upstairs where you can try some of these and see what fits. The rest you take for Adaline. Anything you can’t use, you can bring back.”

  Her smile was so warm, Courtney didn’t have the heart to say no but was still hesitant.

  Tabitha lifted a wool dress with a wide, blue-and-green plaid design. Row upon row of layers draped this way and that. The seams were sloppy, some even looked as if they were coming loose. She wrinkled her nose. “I knew this wouldn’t work. Much too matronly for either of you and I said as much, but Mrs. Brinkley insisted. I’ll save the gorgeous garment,” she winked at Courtney, “for someone else, if the need arises.”

  Relieved, Courtney nodded. She’d not want to wear such an eyesore to her own funeral. She fingered the fabric of another.

  Tabitha made a cooing sound in her throat. “I believe Hannah put that in—she has an exceptional eye for fashion and always looks so nice. This will look lovely on you.”

  Courtney couldn’t take her gaze off the cobalt-blue winter dress. The high neckline and tapered sleeves were trimmed in a cream-colored lace, and a long sash at the waist would make a nice, large bow. The thick material looked warm. She wanted the fetching garment instantly.

  Tabitha lifted the dress. “This color makes your blue eyes sparkle. You must try it on. And this tangerine one as well.” In a rustle of fabric, Tabitha lifted another dress from the trunk. “You’ll look adorable. I hardly think alterations will be needed.”

  After trying on the two dresses and taking anothe
r two for Adaline, Courtney was filled with hope. Her appreciation for what the ladies had done was immeasurable. In an unprecedented move for her, she reached forward and hugged Tabitha. “Thank you so much, Mrs. Wade. These are wonderful—and needed. Will you please thank the others for me?”

  “I will. But truly, no thanks are necessary. We’re all so pleased to have such fine upstanding young ladies to add to our circles. What a joy to hear about life in Newport, the ocean, and more. I’m from New York, but most women who live in Logan Meadows have never seen a lighthouse or smelled salty sea air. We all will be thanking you for moving to town. You and your sister have brought much-needed excitement—and at Christmas time, too.”

  Fine upstanding was the only thing Courtney heard. If Mrs. Wade only knew the truth…

  The bells sounded when Tabitha’s husband stepped into the shop. When he saw the dresses overflowing the sides of the crate, Hunter Wade pulled up. “Ladies?”

  Tabitha rushed over, pulled him down, and kissed his cheek.

  A lopsided grin appeared. “Are we stocking women’s clothing, dear wife? I hadn’t heard. But the idea has merit.” He nodded politely at Courtney. “Miss Costner.”

  Tabitha laughed, still clutching him by the arm. “No, no, you silly goose. The ladies of Logan Meadows have offered a few necessities to Courtney and Adaline until their belongings arrive from Newport. A woman can only go so long in one dress.”

  Courtney held her smile, not having anything to add to the conversation.

  He chuckled and then briefly glanced toward the kitchen area. “I see.”

  “Oh my gosh, Hunter—I’m sorry. You’re hungry and expecting to eat. Involved with this project, I totally—”

  “We have different eating schedules,” he said to Courtney. “I arise much earlier than my wife and have a bite to eat before I leave, or I rustle up something at the saloon with Kendall. So around nine or ten, when I know she’ll be eating, my stomach just naturally starts to grumble.” He squeezed Tabitha’s shoulders, drawing an affectionate gaze. “But don’t worry about fixing anything now. I saw your mother a moment ago, and she invited me over to Hannah’s to taste the stew she made last night.”