Page 68 of Wagon Train Redemption
Angela chuckled. “Wouldn’t be surprised if she tried.”
He moved on without suggesting he could ride with her. Maybe he worried someone from the fort would see him and…what? Think he wasn’t doing his duty? Think he shouldn’t be sitting beside her.
She clenched her teeth. They had no reason to judge her. They knew nothing about her. Nor did Carson.
The front wagon stopped, and Joe signaled her to pull in beside it. Gabe drove his next to hers.
“There it is.” Joe pointed.
Angela jumped down and stood with the others on the hilltop. In the distance stood a stockade. Inside, she made out buildings. To its south, other structures formed a town. The whole thing took but a fraction of the scene, while behind the hills climbed to the foot of mountains—rocky and majestic.
“Folks”—Carson’s chest swelled as he spoke from the back of his horse and swept a hand toward the vista—“that is your destination with the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop.”
“Finally.” Ma sobbed, and Gabe pulled her into his arms.
“Soon we’ll be there and get settled,” he soothed.
Ma sniffled and wiped her eyes. “It’s taken such a long time.”
Ruby strode down the hill. “We won’t get there by staring at it.” Her strides grew so long she was running. And in danger of falling.
“We’re coming,” Gabe called.
Joe signaled everyone back to the wagons, and they made their way down the hill and across the prairie. Not once did Ruby slow down. Not until Joe called for the noon break. Even then, she looked like she’d keep going.
“So close,” she muttered.
The meal was hurried. They didn’t even give the oxen their usual rest. Soon, the animals would be able to graze contentedly for the whole day.
As they resumed their journey, Angela driving despite their usual pattern, a dust cloud rose from the fort. And scarlet tunics were visible.
“They’re sending a welcoming committee,” Carson announced, sending Ruby into a gallop.
Bertie crawled into the back of Ma and Gabe’s wagon. “I not want see ’em.”
No one tried to dissuade him. He’d either hide or come out in his own good time.
One of the Mounties dismounted, and Ruby flew in the welcoming arms.
“I’m guessing that’s Robert,” Angela murmured.
Carson laughed. “I sure hope so.”
The remaining three Mounted Police rode forward and saluted. “We are to escort you to the fort.”
Boss growled until Carson told him to be quiet.
He greeted his fellow policemen and introduced everyone. For the life of her, Angela couldn’t remember any of their names. Her whole head was consumed with the fact that they were there. Time to make some decisions. And time for Carson to reconsider his offer.
She clutched the reins so hard her fingernails bit into her palms.Please, please don’t let him change his mind. I’ll be a real good partner. I’ll work so hard he won’t believe it. I’ll make meals he’ll enjoy. His house will be spotless. And I will be a good wife. Please.
Sixteen
Carson rode beside his fellow Mounties as they escorted the wagons into the fort. Commanding Officer Morgan strode out to greet them. Carson introduced his family and fiancée.
“Welcome to you all. Please join me for dinner at seven.”
“Thank you,” Gabe said. “I hope we can be presentable.”
