Page 30 of That Fateful Ride

“The longing on your face.”

Shit. He had to be careful with that. “Yes. There’re times I really wish I could.” He tore his attention from the shrinking visual of Rebecca and put it on Jesse. “Grab some chow, I’ll see to your horse.”

The young man nodded and trudged off. Cy headed to the stable allowing himself one more look to where she’d gone. Had he just ruined something, which could very well have been the best thing in his life?

Chapter8

Rebecca blew out a breath and rocked on her knees before leaning over to splash her face with water. Lord she felt like hell. Staring at her reflection in the stream, she saw heavy circles beneath her eyes and the gauntness of her face.

This wouldn’t do at all. Mama would ask all kinds of questions. Polaris whickered behind her and she pushed unsteadily to her feet. Back in the saddle, she nudged her gelding toward home. The night was approaching and she should be home in time for dinner.

As she rode, she sucked on her last lemon drop. Her heart lightened when her family home came into view. A welcoming light shone through the encroaching darkness.

She unsaddled Polaris and turned him loose before heading to the house. The door opened when she set her foot on the first step. Her mother stood there.

“Rebecca?”

“Hi, Mama.”

“You home for good?”

“Two days.”

“Come on in and wash up, we were about to eat.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

She walked in and saw her twin at the table. His smile made her feel so much better; at least he was mending. She changed, unbound her breasts, and washed up. In their kitchen, she stared briefly at the empty space for her father, the place he occupied when home. Licking her lips, she met her mama’s gaze. Worry brimmed in those eyes.

“You eatin’ enough?”

“Yes, ma’am, but home cooking is scarce there.”

She opened her arms. “Come here, baby.” That was what she’d been waiting for and flew into her mother’s comforting embrace. “You look sick, child.”

“I’m okay, Mama.”

Mama released her after one more squeeze. “Sit. Eat.”

She ate hearty and helped with dishes after. While they sat in the living room after, her mom sewed. “Tell us about it.”

So Rebecca did.

That night she slept soundly, again safe in her own house and bed. When she woke, the sun was high in the sky. Slipping on a clean dress, she left the room. Her brother was in the kitchen, stoking the oven’s fire.

“Why did you let me sleep so long?”

“Mama said you needed it.”

“Where is she?”

“Delivering laundry.”

Rebecca felt a stab of guilt for not being around. Her brother must have sensed her turmoil.

“We’ve managed, Becca. I’ve helped Mama when I can. She found the money you brought and nearly wept. She’s proud of you, you know.”

“I feel as though she’s disappointed in me.”

---