Spoiled Evelyn (The Mail Order Brides of Boot Creek Book 4) (4 page)

A
fter a refreshing nap
, I woke to find that lamps had been lit, as the sun had gone down. I luxuriated in a bath, indulging myself for an hour in the tub, while Tory washed and rinsed my hair. The tresses being as long as they were, I sat by the fire waiting for them to dry, although most were still damp when Tory arranged them cleverly on top of my head.

By eight o’clock, I had dressed in a tight-fitting bodice, with a crisp flare that hung over a bustled skirt. I adored the satiny patterned fabric, with a high-necked, black frill collar. Whilst examining myself in a mirror, I felt certain I was ready to join the others at dinner.

“You’ll be late.”

“Only by a few minutes. It’ll be my grand entrance.”

Tory stood behind me with her hands on her hips. “You look lovely, as always.”

“Thank you.” Retrieving my drawstring purse from the dresser, I held it on a gloved hand. “Then I’m off.”

“When can I expect you?”

“Eleven or later.”

“Very well. Shall I have tea waiting?”

“That would be nice. Enjoy your quiet evening.” I strolled from the room, heading towards the door.

She followed me through the parlor. “I think I’ll read.”

“Excellent idea.” My hand wrapped around the knob. “I’ll take you to lunch tomorrow. Would you like that?”

“I suppose.” She seemed a little low on spirits.

“Smile, Tory. All is not lost.”

“I miss my family.”

Irritated, I ignored that comment, knowing I would have to deal with this issue at a later date. If I decided to stay in Boot Creek, I might have to let Tory go. That bothered me immensely, as she was more than my maid, and I would never find another like her.

Pushing aside these unhappy thoughts, I descended the three flights of stairs to the foyer, where ladies and gentlemen had gathered, waiting to be seated in the dining room. The glow of lamps cast a flattering light, and, as I passed a mirror, I noted that I did not appear as pale now.

“My dear.”

I turned to find Percy, who had changed into a frock coat and top hat. “Hello.”

“I was waiting for you.”

“I’m sorry I’m late.”

His appreciative gaze drifted over me. “It was worth every minute.”

I smiled. “I’m glad you think so.”

“You truly are one of the loveliest women I’ve ever seen.”

“Oh, you mustn’t flatter me.” I placed a hand on his proffered arm, near the wrist. “But thank you.”

“I’ve a table, but I won’t have you to myself, I’m afraid. I’ll have to share you with the mayor and his wife, Mr. and Mrs. Kelly, and,” he grimaced, “Mr. Brittle.”

The toe of my boot caught the edge of the carpet. “Oh!”

His hand grasped mine. “Do be careful, Evelyn.”

“I’m not normally so clumsy.” People glanced our way, leaving me slightly embarrassed. “I doubt anyone saw that.”

“No, you’re fine.” He guided me across the room, where the din of conversations drifted into quiet murmurs. “We’ll be the talk of the town tomorrow.”

I spied the table, because I recognized Mr. Brittle, who seemed to sit taller than everyone else. A distinguished looking couple sat next to the mayor and his wife, and I assumed they were Mr. and Mrs. Kelly. When we approached, the men stood.

Mr. Brittle grinned. “Good evening, Miss Warner.”

“Hello.” I glanced at the expectant faces around me. “I’m sorry I’m late.”

“My dear,” said Percy. “This is Mr. and Mrs. Hershey and Mr. and Mrs. Kelly.”

“How do you do?” I asked politely.

“It’s good to meet you,” said Mr. Kelly, pulling out my chair. “Come sit next to us.”

By a strange twist of fate, I found myself seated between Mrs. Kelly and Mr. Brittle, while Percy remained across the table. A waiter placed the napkin in my lap, while another poured wine.

“Mrs. Kelly is one of my success stories,” said Mrs. Hershey. “She’s a mail order bride too.”

I glanced at the pretty blonde in the feathered hat. “Congratulations on your marriage,” I murmured. “It’s a comfort to know the process can work.”

“Jack and I had a few bumps along the way.” She cast a teasing, yet disgruntled look towards Mr. Brittle. “There was some trouble, but it all sorted itself out in the end.”

“And the Kellys have an adorable new baby, little Elizabeth.”

Mr. Kelly grinned, and, from the looks of it, he was substantially older than his wife. “Indeed. We couldn’t be happier about that.”

“Although you wanted a boy to inherit.” Mrs. Kelly gazed at her husband. “We’ll just have to give Lizzy a brother, I suppose.”

I felt a ping of jealously at the way he looked at his wife. Unguarded affection shone in his expression, while he placed a hand over hers. “I’m hopeful for such an outcome too, although my maid wants to return to Philadelphia. I might have to send her home on her own. I’ve made up my mind. I don’t plan on returning.”

“It’s difficult to leave everything behind,” said Mrs. Kelly. “It’s a huge leap of faith.”

“Or desperation,” murmured Mr. Brittle. He sipped what looked like whiskey, and I had to wonder why he was with us at dinner. Percy and his brother had made it rather clear that he was beneath them and they would never dine with him.

“Yes, there were some secrets, weren’t there, Lola dear?” Mr. Kelly grinned, the edges of his eyes creasing.

“It’s no secret I wanted to escape my family.”

Now this had my attention, because I was in a similar circumstance. “You did?”

“I was essentially a runaway. I lied about my last name, and I married Jack without anyone’s knowledge. My stepfather managed to find me. He kidnapped me, but Jack stopped him. It was a horrible time, but I’d do it again, because I adore you so.” She glanced at her husband. “I don’t regret a thing.” Again she glowered at Mr. Brittle briefly, and I had to wonder at that look.

The waiter arrived with the menus, and once we had placed our orders, more wine appeared. I took a glass, feeling the attention of Mr. Brittle. How I had ended up sitting next to him baffled me.

“You’re the prettiest woman in the room,” he murmured.

“Please, don’t talk to me.”

He chuckled, “Aw … come on, honey. I’m not gonna bite.”

“Oh, you’ve done more than enough already.” I lifted my chin, smiling at everyone. “Cheers.” I held up the glass. “To new beginnings.”

“Indeed,” agreed Mrs. Hershey.

“What are your plans, Miss Warner?” asked the mayor, who was a rosy-cheeked, rotund man.

“I plan to marry … soon.” This had everyone’s attention. “Very soon.”

“Which one of the ladies ended up without a husband?” asked Mr. Hershey. “Who was that?”

“That was Celia, but she married Pastor Kinsley instead. It was a far better match anyhow. They’re very happy indeed.”

“Celia’s one of my best friends,” said Mrs. Kelly. “I adore her. Our children will play together soon enough, once Lizzy is older. Little Noah is the most adorable little boy.”

Mrs. Hershey beamed. “I cannot tell you how happy it makes me to see all these babies. It warms my heart. It’s a confirmation that my efforts are not in vain.”

Mr. Brittle coughed. “Excuse me.”

I glanced at him, finding him staring in another direction. This presented his profile and a slightly crooked, aquiline nose. A dusting of shorn, darkish hair covered a strong jawline. He sensed my attention, glancing at me. To my dismay, I flushed then, either from the wine or the feeling of flutters and tingles in my belly, which was most disconcerting.

Percy had been quiet, but he spoke then. “I do declare, isn’t Evelyn a handsome woman? My mother said so herself when she met her today. My family esteems you, my dear.”

He exaggerated greatly. “It was my pleasure meeting them as well. Your mother is delightful.”

“At the church, right?” asked Mr. Brittle. “Where you were supposed to marry.”

I glared at him. “No. I met them at the … at the … hotel.”

“At the wedding reception.”

“An engagement luncheon.”

“With an enormous wedding cake.”

“Oh, stop it, Chuck,” admonished Mrs. Kelly. “So things have not gone smoothly, but when do they ever? I’m sure we’ll have a wedding and a reception soon enough.”

“Indeed,” agreed Percy. “By next week.”

Mr. Brittle asked, “Why wait? Keeping this one on a long tether might be dangerous. She could end up marrying some other fella, if you’re not careful.”

“She’s
my
fiancé, Chuck. That would be impossible.” Percy scowled, reaching for a glass of wine.

Mrs. Hershey glanced my way, her look astute. “Mr. Brittle, might I be so bold to ask how old you are?”

“You can ask. It’s no secret. I’m nearly thirty.”

“And yet you have no wife.”

“Seems like I don’t.” He leaned back in the chair, a lazy grin on his face. “I just bought land and I’m building a house. I sure could use a pretty lady to … keep my bed warm.”

Laughter rang out. Mr. Kelly saying, “You can dust the road from his coat, but he’ll always be an uncouth cowboy.”

“Truly,” said Mrs. Hershey, shaking her head with disapproval. “There are ladies at the table.” But, her look remained inquisitive. “What do you intend to do about the issue of your bachelorhood?”

“I didn’t think it was an issue.”

“You don’t plan on continuing this way, do you?”

“My dear,” chastised Mr. Hershey. “It’s none of our concern how Mr. Brittle conducts himself in his private life. Please, don’t bring in one of these catalogue women for him. I beg you. Enough of this nonsense.”

Our meals had not arrived yet, but I wanted to freshen up. I pushed the chair back, getting to my feet. “I’ll be back. Excuse me.”

Mrs. Kelly stood as well. “I’ll accompany you.”

I smiled. “I’ve no idea where the washroom is on this floor.”

“Follow me.” As me moved through the dining room, curious glances came our way. In the entrance hall, Mrs. Kelly said, “Please, call me Lola. Might I call you Evelyn? I love that name. It’s so pretty.”

“You may.” I followed her to a door, which opened to another room. Inside, I found several porcelain sinks set in heavily carved furniture and a partition door hiding the loo. “I’m relieved to hear of your success in marriage. I’m hopeful for a similar outcome.”

She turned to face me. “I ran away from intolerable circumstances, Evelyn. I couldn’t stay where I was. I had to trust God would not steer me wrong, and He didn’t, but it was difficult. It’s a long story, but suffice it to say, I made several mistakes, and so did Jack.”

“I see.”

“Chuck Brittle was one of those mistakes. My husband tested me before we met by having the train disabled and stranding the passengers. He sent Mr. Brittle to the rescue, but it was more to assess my character.” Not knowing if another lady was in the loo, she whispered, “He kissed me. He knew I was engaged to Jack, and, yet, he kissed me. I failed the test briefly, until I came to my senses.”

“Goodness.” That was alarming. “Your husband didn’t trust you?”

“Not before we met and not after. I had to earn his trust. But … there were other issues. It was a mess, but, if two people are meant to be together, they’ll surmount the odds and marry. I’m grateful every day for the life I have. It’s wonderful and perfect, and I adore Jack.” She grinned.

“I’m glad to hear that.”

“Just watch out for Chuck.”

“What?”

“He’s a good man, and my husband trusts him, but he’s the town’s Lothario. He’s shameless where women are concerned. I feel I should warn you, because you seem to have caught his eye.”

“I … have?” If only she knew what had happened in the stairwell.

“Oh, for certain. If given half the chance, he’ll try to seduce you. He’s charming and handsome to be sure, but he’d never seriously offer for a woman. I’ve seen enough to know he prefers his whiskey neat, his women loose, and his horses fast.” She glanced in the mirror, fussing with her hair. “Give that one a wide berth.”

P
ercy
and I hardly managed more than a few sentences of conversation, the dinner table lacking in privacy. He had pulled me aside once we left, saying, “I loath that I had to sit across from you. Tomorrow night, I wish to dine with you alone.”

“Yes, Percy.”

“I want to see you for lunch as well.”

“All right.” I had glimpsed Mr. Brittle placing a hat on his head, as he headed for the exit. “Here at twelve then.”

“I’m looking forward to it. We have a lot of courting to catch up on, so I can marry you next week.”

My attention remained on Mr. Brittle. He spoke to someone by the door briefly, before casting a glance over his shoulder. He winked at me teasingly and then he was gone.

“Evelyn?”

“Hum … yes?”

“I’ll bid you a good evening then.” He took my gloved hand, kissing my fingers. “Have a restful night.”

“And you. Thank you for supper. It was lovely. I adored meeting Mrs. Kelly. I can tell she and I will be good friends.”

“Excellent. She’s fine society, as is Mrs. Hershey.”

“Yes, indeed.”

After I had reached my room, Tory waited for me, having had tea brought up. “So, how was it?” She had changed into her nightclothes. “Are you forming an attachment to Mr. Vanguard or may I go pack now?”

“I hardly spoke with Percy.” Removing my gloves, I sat on the edge of the couch. “Thank you for tea.” There seemed to be some sort of commotion in the street. “For heaven’s sake. What is that ruckus?” Getting to my feet, I drew back the draperies, peering out. A circle had formed around two men who were fighting. “Are they going to do that all night long?”

Tory had joined me. “This town is uncivilized. No woman in her right mind would want to live here.”

“I would appreciate it, if you could refrain from saying anything negative about my future home. I know you had anticipated the luxury of Mr. Cardcastle’s mansion, where even you would be treated like a queen, but I’ve no desire to marry him.”

“You accepted his proposal. You’re wearing his ring.”

“I was under duress at the time. I was forced to accept him. As for the ring, I left it behind. I don’t want it. It’s on my dresser. Mother can give it back to him.”

“Don’t you miss your mother? Don’t you miss all your pretty things? You had the loveliest canopy bed with all those pillows you embroidered.”

“Things aren’t important to me. I can always buy another bed like that. I can embroider more pillows.” Movement in the street held my attention. Someone had stepped into the fray, grabbing one of the men.

“Quit it now, Buck, before you lose what’s left of your teeth,” said the man.

I pressed my nose to the single-pane glass. “Well, that looks like Mr. Brittle.”

“Who’s he?”

“Someone the Kellys know.”

“Oh.” She yawned. “I’m going to bed. You may stand there and look at the imbeciles all night long, but I need my rest.”

I stared at the commotion for as long as it lasted, the men dispersing after a few more punches were thrown. Mr. Brittle stood with several men, and, sensing he was being watched, he turned towards the hotel, gazing up at me in the window. He tipped his hat, grinning.

“I don’t believe I’ve ever met a bigger scoundrel,” I murmured to myself. Dropping the curtain, I stepped away from the spectacle, although it thrilled me that I had been seen.

E
arly the next day
, once I had eaten breakfast, I intended to take a walk and explore Boot Creek before meeting Percy for lunch. Tory would stay and see to my laundry, while I grasped a parasol, anticipating a nice, peaceful stroll through town.

The lobby bustled with new arrivals, and numerous bags of luggage were propped against the wall. People left as well, loading their things onto wagons and coaches. Once outside, I inhaled the freshness of the air, although it held hints of manure from the animals tethered nearby. Opening the parasol, I began to walk, intending to stroll down one end of the street, cross and then inspect the other on the way back. Shops had just opened, as welcome signs hung in the windows. I seemed to have caught the attention of several men, who stared at me from a distance. The women were friendly and smiled in greeting. After the livery and stables, I came upon the mercantile. There were several customers inside, with wagons out front. I closed the parasol, entering the building. Not needing anything, I loitered, gazing at the items for sale, including crockery and utensils. These were of a practical nature, with little embellishment. Everything was rather plain-looking and functional. The simplicity of the store was a far cry from Wanamakers on Market Street in Philadelphia.

After I left, I continued down the boardwalk, my booted feet clunking on the wood. People passed, and I nodded to everyone as they greeted me. I neared the Meat Market, when a strange prickle ran down my backbone. Glancing over my shoulder, I spied a man in a dark frock coat who seemed to be following me. I had perceived him after the Billiard Hall, but I hadn’t thought anything of it. After crossing the street, I felt certain he would not follow, but he did. I hadn’t been in town one day yet, but the possibility existed that Joseph’s men had found me. Continuing on my way, I walked faster, intending to enter Vanguard Grocers to see Percy. The family lived above their business in a series of private apartments.

The store smelled of onions and coffee, the walls lined with shelves, including the aisles. There were several shoppers holding baskets, while gathering the things they needed. I ventured past the canned goods and vinegar bottles, towards the counter, where Percy stood attending a customer.

He noticed me, grinning. “Hello there.”

“Hello.” I waited until he had finished with the customer, saying, “It’s a lovely day. I’ve been taking a stroll.”

“You look fetching in that outfit.”

I had worn a cream-colored bodice with a dark blue, bustled skirt. “Thank you.” A yellow brocade bonnet with blue lace adorned my head. “I had hoped to see your apartment.”

“Now?” His eyed widened, as another customer approached.

“No, whenever you’re able. I can see you’re busy. We’ll meet for lunch.”

His smile lessened. “That’s a shame. I should have Harold mind the shop, and I could join you on your excursion.”

I stood before an aisle of baking goods. “Don’t trouble yourself. I’ll see you soon enough.” As I turned, the man in the dark frock coat stood before the store, but upon seeing me, he continued on.
Oh, who are you?
Unease settled upon me. The feeling that something was off had sent my nerves into a heightened state of distress and suspicion.

Once outside, I searched for the man, not seeing him on the boardwalk. As I approached the saloon, boisterous piano music spilled out into the street, as men skulked, laughing and talking.

“Hey there, purdy lady,” said a nearly toothless man.

“Can I buy you a drink, honey?” asked another.

I lowered my head, not wanting to look at them. “No, thank you.”

“Don’t see too many fancy ladies around these parts, do we Gus?”

“Nope. Sure don’t. That’s one fine little doxy there.”

Being spoken about in such a derogatory manner had stoked my anger, but I would not engage them, walking faster towards the Gazette, where I might purchase a newspaper.

“You’ve got a shadow,” said a voice behind me. I turned to find Mr. Brittle, who tipped his hat. “Howdy.”

Why did his presence please me so? “Hello.”

His dark brown eyes skimmed over me. “You’re a breath of fresh air.”

“I was warned about you.”

“You were?” A brow lifted, while amusement danced in his eyes.

“Yes, but what do you mean about a shadow?”

“That fella who’s following you.”

“Wouldn’t that be you?”

“I saw you go by the saloon, and I came out.”

“You drink this early?”

“It’s nearly lunchtime.” He shrugged, grinning.

I sighed, because this had confirmed my fears. “I do have a shadow.” People passed, staring in our direction. I moved towards the doorway of the Gazette. “I wondered about that.”

“You look worried.”

“I am.”

“Who is he?”

I bit my lip, not wanting to disclose my secret, but it was difficult not to. “I … it might be someone my … er … family hired.”

“You’re a runaway.”

“Not exactly.”

“Lola’s family was after her. She escaped a bad situation, but it followed her. If you ask me, it looks like one of ‘em Pinkerton detectives. He’s got that beady-eyed look about him.”

“I’m not a criminal!” I blurted, feeling angry and indignant at the same time.

“But you’re hiding somethin’. I’m kinda partial to damsels in distress, though. I’d be happy to not only provide a shoulder for you to cry on, but I might be able to solve your problems too.”

“I doubt it. I was warned to stay away from you.”

“I bet I know who said that. Mrs. Kelly’s still sore about that kiss. I confess; I did kiss her. It was a bit of a test, you see. It was something Mr. Kelly hired me to do. Normally, I’d be happy to kiss a woman for free, but he wanted to know if she could be trusted.”

“That’s just awful.” I frowned. “You’re despicable.”

“But she doesn’t hold a candle to you. She wasn’t nearly as sweet as you. I don’t think I’ve ever had a kiss that nice before. I’d be willing to risk another slap or two for more kisses.” A devilish grin lit his eyes.

“You can rest assured that I shall
never
kiss you again.” And then I saw him, the man in the dark frock coat. Sensing my distraction, Mr. Brittle glanced over his shoulder.

“That’s him. He’s got Pinkerton stink all over him. A few of ‘em fellas chased me down in my youth. He wants something, all right.”

“I should go back.” I would buy a newspaper at another time.

“You need an escort.” This was not a question, as he fell into step beside me.

My mind spun with unpleasant thoughts, as I craned my neck to see if we were being followed, and we were. “Drat.”

“What are you runnin’ from?”

“My family,” I admitted.

“I see.”

“And … and a fiancé.” Laughter resounded at this declaration. I should have expected it.

“Oh, lordy, what a tangled web you weave. Does Percy know?”

“No, and I shouldn’t have said anything.”
I should have kept my mouth shut.

“But you’re worried they found you.”

“Yes.” My shoulders had slumped. We neared the end of the boardwalk, having to cross to the other side where the hotel was.

“Why don’t you marry? Then you’ll have your husband’s protection.”

“I suppose I’ll have to. Is he still there?”

“Don’t see him. I think he knows we perceived him. I’m sure he’ll telegraph his boss and pass on any pertinent information.”

“And then either Joseph or my father will arrive here.”

“Joseph is the fiancé?”

“Yes.”

“I’ve never met a woman who had two fiancés before.” He grinned. “That’s rather greedy, wouldn’t you say?”

“Go to blazes,” I muttered. We neared the hotel. “I shouldn’t have told you anything.”

“What are you going to do?”

“I don’t know,” I said miserably.

“Are you worried about a kidnapping?”

We had entered the hotel, strolling across the foyer, which had thinned out. “Yes, I am.” I stopped by the steps, facing him. “Mrs. Hershey knows about my past. I didn’t tell her before I arrived. I told her after. I lied to her. I lied to Percy. I don’t know if I can marry him.” Withdrawing my hand from its glove, I began to chew on a fingernail, which was unladylike, but my anxiety had reached new heights. I needed a distraction.

Mr. Brittle stared at me thoughtfully. “Why did you agree to marry this Joseph person?”

“My father forced me. He’s terribly rich and connected, but he means to keep me as one of his possessions. I can’t live like that.”

“You’d rather work at a grocers?”

“I don’t mind work, sir. I know you think little of me, but I came here to start fresh. I want to marry someone, but I feel nothing for Percy. He’s really just a boy.” Why was I telling him all of this?

“Then he can offer you little protection. You need someone to manage things now, so you can find the husband of your dreams.” He grinned.

“You’re incorrigible.” I had to smile, because it was difficult not to.

“Why not hire me?”

“You?”

“Yes, me. I’m waiting on my house to be built and a shipment of cattle. I’ve got little to do but drink and chase women. I’m free to take the odd job.” He winked. “It might keep me outta trouble.”

“I’ll think about it.” To my consternation, I glimpsed the man again, because he had entered the lobby. “I’m meeting Percy for lunch. It’s a little early yet. Why don’t we go in and talk?”

He beamed enthusiastically. “That’s the best suggestion I’ve heard all year.”