Page 31 of Wild Spirit Revival

He paced instead, his nerves jangling. What was he doing here? He’d never been one for social calls, yet here he was, seeking out a woman he wasn’t sure he liked.

The sound of footsteps on the stairs made him turn. Molly appeared, her eyes widening in surprise as she spotted him.

“Elijah?” she said, a smile spreading across her face. “What a pleasant surprise!”

His heart quickened at the sight of her smile. “Molly,” he greeted with a slight nod. “I was hoping you might join me for a walk. There’s something important I need to discuss with you.”

Her eyebrows arched with curiosity. “Of course,” she replied, her voice tinged with both excitement and concern.

As they stepped out onto the bustling street, Elijah felt an unfamiliar nervousness creep over him. He was used to handling ornery cattle and stubborn horses, not escorting beautiful women through town. He cleared his throat, searching for the right words.

“What have you been doing since you left the ranch?”

She smiled. “Taking as many photographs as possible. Have you been ranching?”

Elijah felt heat rise to his cheeks at her teasing tone. “Suppose I have.” He led them toward a quieter side street, away from prying eyes and ears.

“Molly. What I have to tell you is… well, it’s not exactly pleasant news.”

Her smile faded, replaced by a look of concern. “What is it, Elijah?”

He took a deep breath, steeling himself. “There’s a potential threat to the town during the upcoming July Fourth celebrations. Sheriff Gaines has deputized several townsfolk to help keep an eye out, but…” He paused, meeting her gaze directly. “I’d like to offer my services as your personal escort during the festivities. To ensure your safety.”

A mix of emotions flashed across her pretty face. Surprise, worry, and something else Elijah couldn’t quite place.

“A threat?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. “What kind of threat?”

Elijah took a few minutes to explain.

Molly bit down on her lower lip as she processed the information. After a moment, her expression softened, and a mischievous glint appeared in her eyes.

“Well, Mr. Beckett,” she said, her tone lighter. “I suppose I’ll have to accept your offer of protection. But I hope you know what you’re getting yourself into.”

He raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. “What do you mean?”

Her lips curved into a playful smile. “I plan to photograph the entire celebration. Every person in the parade, every speech, every firework. And someone will need to carry my equipment box.”

A hint of amusement flickered across placid features. “I reckon I can manage that.”

They continued their stroll, the tension from earlier dissipating as they fell into a companionable silence. He found himself sneaking glances at Molly, admiring the way the sunlight caught her golden hair.

As they rounded a corner, the inviting facade of the Golden Griddle came into view. The aroma of fresh-baked pies wafted through the air, making Elijah’s stomach rumble.

“Elijah! Miss O’Sullivan!” a familiar voice called out.

They turned to see Sheriff Brodie Gaines waving at them from the entrance of the diner. Beside him stood Annalee, her eyes full of curiosity as she took in the sight of her brother with the town’s new photographer.

“Why don’t you two join us?” Brodie invited, gesturing toward the table. “I hear the sisters just pulled a fresh batch of apple pies from the oven.”

Elijah hesitated, glancing at Molly. He found himself reluctant to end their time alone together, but he didn’t want to appear rude to his sister and the sheriff.

Elijah cleared his throat, his gaze meeting Brodie’s for a brief moment. “Much obliged, but Molly and I will take our own table.” His voice was steady, an undercurrent of determination coming through.

Molly’s eyebrows rose, a smile playing at the corners of her mouth. She nodded her agreement, and Elijah guided her to an empty table with a light touch on her elbow.

They settled into chairs, the scent of cinnamon and coffee enveloping them. A waitress appeared, setting down two steaming mugs and promising to return with a slice of fresh apple pie for each of them.

She wrapped her hands around her mug, studying Elijah over the rim. “So, tell me about growing up on Wild Spirit Ranch. It must have been quite an adventure.”

---