The Fire in Ember - DiAnn Mills [44]
She stiffened. “No, but I’m sure a jail’s not any worse than sleeping in the rain or snow.”
“I’m not feeling sorry for you. Leave those sentiments for Mama or Evan.” John released her shoulders. His head pounded with the exasperation of finding Bert ready to take off. He’d try Mama’s way. Be gentle. “I’m sorry if I hurt you. Please, why won’t you tell me the truth?”
“I don’t want anyone else hurt.”
“Have you witnessed a murder?” When she didn’t respond, he realized he’d inched closer to the truth. “I’m a deputy. I can help you.”
“It’s too muddy. Too many people involved. Can you be with your mama and your brothers every minute?”
“My brothers know how to use a rifle.”
“Maybe on a wolf or a bear, but what about another man? I’ve heard the story about what happened to Davis. Do you want that scare repeated?”
It was John’s turn not to respond as he took time to contemplate her words.
“Let me leave,” she whispered. “I care too much for all of you to risk anyone getting hurt.”
The front door of the house closed, and John jerked his attention to the porch. “Who’s there?”
“Me. Evan. I thought you were in town.”
Could things get any worse? No point in holding back why he was there. “I had to take care of things here first.”
“Like what?”
“I have to take Bert to town.”
Evan stomped down the porch toward them. “For what?” His voice thundered through the darkness.
“Keep your voice down. You’ll have everyone up.” John blew out an exasperated sigh. “I’m taking her in for her own safety. Talk in town has her part of the cattle rustling.”
“Because of Oberlander’s mare?”
“What do you think? And none of our livestock is missing. Or is it?”
“Nah. We have them all.” Evan stood before them. John could feel the animosity seeping from the pores of his brother’s skin. He didn’t want an argument or a fight. On the ride back from town, he’d thought through Evan’s feelings for Bert and how best to persuade him that this was the best way to protect her.
John reached down inside him for what had to be said. “We don’t want a mob riding out here. You know what could happen, and our brothers would see it all.”
“Where will she stay?” Evan’s soft voice revealed his heart. John hated this. Why had God shoved Bert into their lives? What good reason could cause all of this turmoil?
“I’m thinking Widow Bess might take her in. Maybe give her a job at the hotel.”
“I’m not so sure I like Bert being around those women at the saloon.”
“Do I have a say in this?” Bert said. “Since you two are deciding my future.”
“No.” John had no problem adding firmness to his words. “Little lady, you cost me money, time, and the safety of my family. You have no say in anything until this is resolved.”
“Don’t you think you’re being hard on her?” Evan’s voice rose.
“Not at all. She refuses to talk about where she came from, and that spells trouble. Sometimes I’d like to ring her pretty neck.” John caught his own words. He’d actually said “pretty.”
“Just leave me alone,” Bert said. “Fighting among brothers isn’t right. I’d rather take my chances on my own. I’ll send you the money I owe once I get settled.”
“I don’t care about the money, and the answer is still no.” John would tie her up if she tried to take off. He lifted the bundle of clothes and boots from her arms. “You can go back inside and get some sleep, or we can ride back to Rocky Falls tonight.” The latter would make him one tired man, but he’d do it.
Irritating silence met him.
“Tonight or in the morning?” he said.
“John, quit badgering her.” Evan’s tone had reached fighting level. John had heard it enough through the years.
“In the morning,” Bert said.
“I want your word you won’t try to run off,” John said. “And think about this while you’re scheming to get away. If you leave, the other ranchers are going to blame me and my family for harboring a cattle thief. And if you have any feelings