A Whisper at Midnight

A WHISPER AT MIDNIGHT Copyright  1999 By Jennifer Lynn Hoffman Cover Art Copyright  1999 By Leta Nolan Childers (http://www.pubpromos.com) ISBN 0-9667995-8-5 Electronically published in arrangement with the author ALL RIGHTS RESERVED No portion of this book may be reprinted in whole or in part, by printing, faxing,E-mail, copying electronically or by any other means without permission of the publisher. For more information contact DiskUs Publishing http://www.diskuspublishing.com E-mail DiskUs Publishing PO Box 43 Albany, IN 47320 * This is a work of fiction. All names in this publication are fictitious and any resemblance to any person living or dead is coincidental. * * *

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Dedicated to April Stinnett whose friendship continues to give me some of the best days of my life.

Table of Contents Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven Chapter Eight Chapter Nine Chapter Ten Chapter Eleven Chapter Twelve Chapter Thirteen Chapter Fourteen Chapter Fifteen Chapter Sixteen Chapter Seventeen Chapter Eighteen Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

About the Author

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Chapter One Montana Territory February, 1868 Angel Walker knew her hesitation could ruin her brothers’ plan. Her reluctance might even cause their deaths. She tore her gaze from the snow-covered peaks in the distance and kicked her horse into a dangerous gallop down the frozen hillside. The bitter wind nipped at her cheeks until her eyes watered. Her horse stumbled, nearly tossing her into the snow. She clambered for a better hold on the reins, her heart pounding. A black and red stagecoach sped along the icy road ahead. Angel’s stomach lurched. She considered turning back but had given her word. A lump formed in her throat as her brothers, Duke and Lee, rode out from the forest to her right and closed in on the stagecoach. It was far too late to turn back. She removed her Colt .44 from the holster nestled against her hip with shaky fingers and pulled the hammer back. Her gaze never wavered from the two men sitting in the driver’s box. The express messenger and driver stared straight ahead as though they didn’t notice the outlaws closing in on them from both sides. Angel knew better. Their silence was an act to buy time. She nodded to her brothers, then urged her horse forward to confront the stagecoach. She raised her gun into the air and pulled the trigger. Her arm jerked as the blast broke the silence. The express messenger whirled in his seat and leveled a double-barreled shotgun at her. She shivered as the driver cracked the reins over the horses' backs and forced the stagecoach to gain speed. Only the glint in the express messenger’s cold gray eyes hinted at the anger hidden within. She watched in horror as his finger curled around the trigger. Swallowing hard, she prayed her timing was right. "There’s a block in the road," the driver yelled. Without delay, Angel guided her horse behind the stagecoach for protection from the messenger’s gun. Gunpowder burst from the barrel of the shotgun in the messenger’s hands. A bullet whizzed by her ear. She choked down a scream as he followed her every move with the gun. Courage, she remembered her mother saying

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once, is the essence of life. The driver turned and stared at the messenger with wide eyes. "Shoot ‘em! Why ain’t you firin'?" When the messenger lowered his gun, relief rushed through her. "Because I don’t feel like havin’ a bullet pierce my skull in retaliation." The driver twisted in his seat and glared at her with eyes as dark as coal. She raised an eyebrow at him and made the expression on her face cold and unfriendly. Within moments, he nodded and yanked the reins back, slowing the horses. She blinked, not believing she had come so close to death and had survived. At any given moment, the messenger could have shot her. Her breath rushed from her lungs and she thanked the Lord for sparing her life. She rode up next to the stagecoach and waited while Duke faced the men. Even at the young age of twenty-seven, her brother took control of most situations with ease and experience. He gestured to the driver with his Winchester rifle, a lock of his raven hair falling over his mask. "It’d be in both your best interests to hand yer weapons over and stand next to the stagecoach, mister." The two men glared at Duke, then turned to glance in her direction. Finally, they placed their guns on the seat and hopped down. Robbing a stagecoach wasn’t always so easy, and she considered the quick surrender a blessing. A chill of apprehension skirted up her spine. She watched, unable to move, as Duke and Lee dismounted to retrieve the guns from the driver's box. The time had come to change into the notorious outlaw Jade Sinclair. Angel dismounted and walked toward the stagecoach, stifling the urge to flee. She adjusted her silk mask to a more comfortable position over her eyes, then tucked a few loose strands of her unruly auburn hair back under the midnight colored wig she wore. The adherence to every detail protected their identity and was the only thing that ensured their safety. She heard someone behind her and turned. Duke glared at her, the pupils of his blue eyes widening. She shifted uncomfortably but returned his stare. She had taken a risk, alerting the driver with the shots before her brothers had the chance to take them by surprise and could tell her brother wasn’t happy about it. "Remember," he said. "No fancy moves. These bastards stole our gold in the first place. We're going to go in and steal it back." She nodded. They had every right to take back their gold. They learned long ago that the Hunt brothers were hired to steal gold from the Walker mines and transport it to an unknown party by stagecoach. Rather than facing starvation, Angel and her brothers took on the identity of outlaws and had successfully managed to take back most of their gold.

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She marched to the stagecoach and threw open the door. Her eyes adjusted to the darkness inside, and she counted four women and one man. The lone man, rugged looking though he wore a suit, stared at the gun in her hand with narrowed eyes. He pulled the trembling woman sitting next to him, presumably his wife, into his arms and kissed her forehead. A twinge of longing squeezed her heart, but she pushed it aside. She leaned through the door and raised her gun to remind the passengers of the consequences if they decided to become heroic. Though she couldn’t shoot any of the travelers, she found holding her gun in plain view was all the threat she needed to keep the heroes at bay. There had been only one time that her plan hadn’t worked and a man was shot. She shivered at the memory, wishing she could change that fateful day. She turned to the passengers. "Good afternoon, ladies and gentleman. Step out here for a breath of fresh air and take a look see at the storm movin’ in." No one moved. Reaching inside the stagecoach, she pulled a plump elderly woman from her seat. The woman stepped outside, then glared at her as she patted down her skirts. Angel pressed her lips together, biting back the urge to tell the woman what she thought of her. The old biddy. She stilled the instinct, knowing Duke would be anything but thrilled. The bitter wind slipped down the back of her buckskin coat, chilling her to the bone. She pulled her coat closed with numb fingers and fastened the top button. A blizzard was brewing, and the last big storm of winter always came with a vengeance. She pointed her gun at the passengers still inside the stagecoach. "If I were you, I’d think hard about joinin’ the lady outside." The young woman moved out of her husband’s embrace and gazed quizzically at her. Angel reached for the woman’s slender hand, and out of the corner of her eye she saw Lee blow the woman a kiss. The woman’s fingers tightened on her arm and she leaned closer until Angel could smell the scent of her musky perfume. Angel smiled, reveling in the scent of the perfume her mother used to wear. "Don’t worry about them. They’re as harmless as a pack of newborn pups." "Don’t speak to her, Laura," the man barked. He glared at Angel warily and led the woman to the side of the stagecoach. She shook her head. The man's taunts were minimal compared to her previous experiences. During a robbery, it wasn’t uncommon for the travelers to become irate or spit on her. Once someone even knocked her off her feet. She turned back to the stagecoach and helped the last two women outside. Seeing her brothers check the passengers for weapons, she turned

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and searched the confines of the stagecoach. Finding nothing, she crawled back out and heard the distinctive crack of a hand meeting skin. She hurried over to her brothers and saw Lee wipe a speck of blood from his mouth. "Damn! The filly slapped me!" "You’re too young to tame that kind of woman," Duke replied. Angel giggled, then covered her mouth with her hand. Duke turned and stared at her with wide eyes as though he had just noticed her presence. Without a word, he ushered Lee away. She heard their mumbled voices as they continued their conversation and stamped the heel of her boot into the frozen ground. Did they think she didn’t know about the happenings between a man and woman? Her dearest friend sold her favors for a living! She wasn’t blind and was far from deaf. She heard the thud of wood hitting metal and turned to see Duke strike the lock on one of the traveling chests with the butt of his rifle while Lee stood guard. They would never consider her a grown woman. She would always be their little sister. "I found one. There should be four more," Duke said, holding a large nugget of their gold in his hand. She turned and addressed the travelers. "I’m not going to keep you. There’s a storm brewin’ and we need to send you on your way. My name’s Jade Sinclair and these here are my brothers." "What do you want from us?" the driver asked. "You are not in danger. None of you are. We're only here to take back what is rightfully ours," Angel said as she pulled a wadded up flour bag from the pocket of her wool trousers and plastered a smile on her face. "Gather your jewelry. I'll need to inspect it." She stopped before a middle-aged woman. The woman traced the engravings on what appeared to be a wedding ring with her finger, then handed the gold band to her with a tormented sob. As Angel closed her hand around the band, she saw a tear slip over the rim of the woman’s haunting green eyes. Her heart twisted with regret. "You're a newlywed, aren’t you?" The woman nodded her head, unable to keep a smile from touching her lips. "Your husband bought this ring in Helena for your marriage?" Again, the woman nodded. Angel shook her head. The ring had disappeared from her dresser that fall, along with several other precious pieces her parents had bought for her. Now she was certain the Hunt brothers took more than the gold from their mines. "Don’t fret," Angel whispered as she handed the ring back to the woman. "I wouldn’t take such a treasure from you."

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She gave the woman a genuine smile, then continued on to the rest of the passengers, trying to ignore the pressing sorrow in her heart. She looked over the last of the jewelry and placed the empty flour sack back in the pocket of her trousers. They were not there to steal. Their sole purpose was to retrieve what was rightfully theirs. "Are you really Jade Sinclair?" an elderly woman asked with a frown. The expression caused the woman’s wrinkles to deepen. "I’m Jade." "The paper said she was twenty-eight. You don’t look a day past eighteen." "Guess they were lyin. I’m twenty-one." She followed the woman to the side of the stagecoach and joined the passengers. A large snowflake floated before her eyes, then fell to the ground. To the west, thousands more fell, the wind blowing them in all directions. She motioned to the women. "Back in the stagecoach, ladies. We don’t want you to catch your death in this weather." As her brothers moved the logs out of the road, she mounted her horse and sighed in relief. Now, they could afford to send their mother more money. Suddenly, a burdening weight was lifted from her shoulders. Once the stagecoach was moving on its way, they rode in the direction of their cabin. Ahead of them, a pack of riders crested a hill and plunged into the valley. A cloud of white snow rose from the horses' hooves as they drew closer. A chill ran down Angel’s spine. She gripped the reins and glanced over to her brothers. "Who the hell can it be?" Lee asked. "I don’t know but let’s not find out," Duke said. He turned toward her, and she knew by the look on his face that he was worried. "Let’s see what that horse of yours can do." Angel spurred the mare after her brothers as they rode off at breakneck speed. She couldn’t resist glancing back and counted seven riders. They were quickly gaining ground. Just before she turned forward in her saddle, a shock of bright red hair caught her attention. She knew of only one man who had hair that color. Johnny Hunt wasn’t happy with their meddling in his orders and he seemed hell bent on revenge. She kicked her horse into a gallop and slapped the reins on the horse’s sides. Angel caught up to her brothers and wiped the falling snow from her face. "It’s the Hunt gang!" she yelled, knowing the wind had stolen her words as soon as they’d left her lips. A shot rang out, sending her low in her saddle. Hanging on the saddle horn, she dug both spurs into the mare’s flanks. The horse leaped, hitting the

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ground in a hard run. She rode low, balancing her weight in the right stirrup, and prayed the horse would shelter her from the onslaught of bullets. As she pulled her Colt .44 from its holster, she saw Duke veer to the left and followed. The gang had caught up, now riding directly to her right. She fired at the pack of riders, missing them entirely in her fear. She turned toward Lee and met his wide-eyed gaze, then ducked as another bullet flew past. She raised her arm and shot in the rider’s direction. Again, she hit nothing. An agonizing pain shot through her right shoulder. The impact threw her forward in the saddle. She gasped for air and clutched at the saddle horn while struggling to remain seated. If she fell, Duke and Lee couldn’t stop for her. She had to remain on the horse until they were safe. She gripped the saddle horn until her knuckles turned white and glanced up, searching for Duke in the falling snow. He rode next to her, adjusting his mask. She watched him turn with his rifle, aim and fire. One of the dark forms in the distance fell from its horse. Oddly, the gang halted in the blinding snow. She didn’t know what to make of it. The Hunt gang was ruthless. Why had they stopped? The sleet and snow were coming down in sheets by the time they found an area braced from the wind. Angel was beginning to lose her grip on the saddle horn, but struggled to remain strong. When her brothers halted their horses, she blinked several times to clear her head. A black cloud was pushing from the corner of her eyes to block out her sight and she swayed in her saddle. Knowing her strength was failing, she tried to speak, but the words caught in her throat. "This is gettin' too dangerous, Duke," Lee whispered. Angel gasped for breath as pain surged through her shoulder. "Lee, I..." Time seemed to slow down. Mercifully, she gave into the darkness. *** Reid Spencer gripped the worn lace curtains with shaky fingers and peered out the frosty paned window. The wind howled through a crack in the door and annoyed him to distraction. As if that wasn’t enough, the swing on the porch slammed against the wall, rattling the glass until he was sure it would break. He jerked back and hit a chair with his hand, sending it clattering to the floor. The storm didn’t seem to be letting up and if it were anything like the winters before, it would continue for days. If the mountains got the brunt of the storm, he couldn’t make it to town for at least a month. Grimly, he realized he didn't have enough supplies in the pantry for more than three weeks.

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He yanked the chair off the floor and set it against the table. The larger wildlife wouldn’t return to the higher elevations until the end of April. Rabbit meat would have to suffice until then. Running his fingers through his hair, he limped across the room. The muscles in his leg locked up in mid-stride. He slammed his fist into his thigh. The vixen would pay for what she had done. He remembered the day he lost the use of his leg as if it were yesterday, though it had happened less than a year before. He continued the assault on his leg until the muscles relented. When she took his leg, she also stole his identity. He couldn’t even bear to travel to Helena for supplies let alone have a social life. The sympathetic stares of the patrons bore into the back of his head wherever he went, reminding him that he was half a man. He would never be a person of society again. He preferred the solitude of the mountains. Reid tossed a log on the dwindling fire in the hearth. The blizzard would make the mountains cold. To avoid a sleepless night of shivering, he needed to put extra blankets on the bed. He reminisced of a time when his wife’s body was all he needed for warmth. Curling up next to her in their bed was his favorite memory of their time together. Still, thinking about it didn’t make the cold nights pass any quicker. He crossed the room and leaned over the writing desk to turn down the oil lamp. A picture resting on a shelf caught his eye. His hand shook as he touched the smooth surface. Sweet and lovely Alice. When he’d married her, his mother had been so proud of him. She said he’d married a pretty, southern belle and her description fit Alice perfectly. A board on the porch squeaked with someone’s weight, sending tingles of warning up Reid’s back. He straightened and grabbed his rifle from its berth over the front door, cocking it. His finger lay ready on the trigger as he slowly approached the doorway. He pulled on the latch, swung the door open and stepped outside, his breath catching in his throat with the shock of the frigid wind. He took a deep breath and exhaled, a filmy white cloud floating in the air. The pelting snow and sleet stung his face as he moved along the porch. His feet shuffled through the piles of snow on the planked wood as he approached the swing. It swayed with the weight of a body. The black heap lying on the seat moaned and turned into the light coming from the window. "What the hell?" Reid swore. He squinted through the sheet of falling snow surrounding his cabin but couldn’t see much beyond the porch. He uncocked his rifle and leaned it against the side of the cabin, then strode over to the bundle. He tugged at the corner of the wool blanket until it came loose. As the

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light fell over the unconscious woman, his legs felt like lead poles. Why was she there? His hand began to sweat, and he let go of the blanket. The hairs on the back of his neck prickled. He straightened, all the muscles in his back tensing. Someone was watching him. He glanced into the darkness but saw nothing. "Who’s there?" he called. Receiving no answer, he reached forward and ran his fingers over the softness of her cheek. He found her skin warm to the touch. Relief rushed through him. Either she hadn’t been out in the cold for very long or someone had taken great care to keep her warm. The woman’s stark white complexion caused his heartbeat to quicken in concern. A person of good health would have a rosy tint to their skin after being out in the cold. She did not. Something was wrong with her. Damning himself for not taking her inside sooner, Reid put the rifle inside the cabin, then hoisted the woman into his arms. Again, he sensed someone was watching him but ignored the warning. Helping the woman was his main concern. If the spying stranger intended to harm him, he would have done it by then. He guessed the person had probably brought the woman there but didn’t have time to ponder it. He had to get her inside and quickly. He carried her through the door and kicked it shut behind him. Her rapid breath fanned over his cheek and teased the hairs of his beard until his skin tingled. Gaining a better grip on her body, he hobbled across the room and laid her gently on the bed. If she was ill, he couldn’t help her. He was no longer a doctor and had vowed never to touch another patient in his lifetime. He leaned forward with an exhausted sigh and smoothed her hair away from her face. Her skin was warm, but she wasn't burning with fever. The coolness of her forehead was a good sign, and he felt encouraged. She might survive the ordeal. He set the rifle against the nightstand and sat next to her on the bed. He unwrapped the blanket, wincing as his gaze fell to the expanding circle of blood beneath her buckskin coat. With shaky fingers, he peeled it back. More blood soaked her once white linen blouse. Realizing he had to find the wound to stop the bleeding, he gritted his teeth and ripped the fabric from her body. The buttons flew in all directions, scattering across the floor. He cursed at what he found--a blood-crusted wound high over her right breast. Reid pushed the rising questions from his mind and inspected the wound. The bullet had passed clean through her shoulder and had come out her back. She needed stitches. She needed a doctor and he wouldn’t pretend he could do the job. Yet, he couldn't just sit there and let the woman die. He gnashed his teeth and let his gaze fall over the woman’s trousers.

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Why would a woman wear man’s clothing? It didn’t make sense. He quickly rid her of her clothing and threw them in the corner. Drawing on his years as a doctor, he blocked his reaction to the rise and fall of her soft breasts and covered her with a quilt. He rose and crossed the room to search through the cabinets. He realized the weight of his duty but needed to remain calm. If he didn’t, he could cause the woman’s death and would never forgive himself. Someone had brought her there for help and he was going to do his best to save her life. He slammed the cupboard door, his gaze darting around the room. When he’d quit practicing, he threw out his medical supplies. How could he have forgotten? The only utensils suitable were a spool of silk thread, a needle and plenty of whiskey. As of yet, he wasn’t entirely sure whether the whiskey was for the woman or himself. He sterilized the needle and prepared to stitch up the wound. If the woman awoke, he would have to sedate her. A woman could never handle the pain. Reid stared at the bullet hole and frowned. Did he still remember how to close the wound? Ceasing all thought, he concentrated on the task at hand. He cleansed the wound with the whiskey, then threaded the needle and took the first stitch. One after another, he made small, even stitches along the wound, forcing himself to work with meticulous care. Time passed. As he labored, memories of his training flooded back. He could almost hear old Doc Smith's voice coaching him the night he had closed his first wound. Don't pull the thread too tight. Make even stitches...you don't want to leave too much of a scar. Moments later, he’d finished. Confident now, he set about doing the same to the bullet’s entry point. After he’d stitched both wounds, he retrieved clean linen from the pantry and wrapped her shoulder. Leaning back in his chair, he watched the beautiful woman sleeping in his bed and groaned with exhaustion. "Who are you, mystery lady," he whispered. "Why were you brought here of all places?" He realized he hadn’t studied the woman’s features very carefully and leaned forward in the chair. Her hair wove in tangled knots over his pillow, intriguing him. The color was a rich brown and had peculiar highlights sprinkled through the tresses. A coppery sunset stolen right out of Montana Territory’s sky seemed to streak through the shiny locks. He fought the urge to touch the silky strands, thinking that somehow they would burn him. The woman’s long eyelashes fluttered over her high cheekbones, drawing his gaze to her petite nose. The rose-colored mole at the corner of her pouting red lips caught his attention. He had to admit she was striking. As Reid watched, her mouth parted and curved into a lazy smile. Her eyelids fluttered again and he wondered what color hid beneath her lashes.

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Green? Or were they blue? He reached over and took the whiskey bottle from the nightstand. Twisting the cork off the top, he raised it to his lips and took a hearty gulp. The amber liquid burned a path down his throat, setting his stomach on fire. He didn’t understand what had driven him to save the woman. He knew she would have died without his help and had somehow found the strength to override his fears. He hadn't entertained the idea of returning to doctoring for over a year. Now, the idea wouldn't leave him any peace. "Mama!" She didn't seem to notice his grunt of pain as he rose or that his lame leg refused to bend as he sat next to her on the bed. He touched her arm and stared into her luminous eyes. The intensity of the emotions in her gaze surprised Reid. Her eyes weren’t green as he had first predicted, but was a brilliant sapphire blue that seemed to reach all the way to her soul. The color of her eyes belonged in the stormiest of seas. She blinked. Her pupils widened until he could see himself reflected in the clear depths. "Mama?" she cried again, surprising Reid. He stared in wonder as her hand snaked out and touched his cheek. He flinched at the touch, pulling himself from the woman’s spell. He raised the bottle of whiskey to her lips. "Drink this." She glanced at him with the innocence of a child, then parted her lips to accept the liquid. When it slid into her mouth, she sputtered and started to cough. He eased her forward in the bed and lightly patted her back until the coughing ceased. "I didn’t mean to do it, Mama, but we needed the money." "What did you do?" The woman pouted and distracted him with the sight of her full lips. "I can’t tell you." She tilted her head, exposing her creamy neck. "You would never forgive me if you knew." He frowned, wondering whether he had enough herbs left to make a tea to stop her hallucinations. She was obviously in a great deal of pain. "Of course I would." She smiled and placed a soft kiss on his cheek. He closed his eyes as her lips puckered against the coarse hair of his beard. Her lips felt like a feather, drawn lightly across his skin. She pulled away, the faint fragrance of roses assaulting his senses. He wanted to pull her back in his embrace but stilled the notion. Instead, he urged her back against the bed, and she settled without protest. He pulled the covers from beneath her, then tucked them around her body. She needed sleep now, but he would wake her in an hour to eat. He returned to the chair and watched her sleep. He was helpless to take

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care of her in the mountains with a storm raging. If her fever rose and infection set in, she wouldn’t survive. Why had he thrown out his supplies? Whoever had brought her to him obviously didn’t know what he had become. The woman moaned and turned toward him. The covers fell away to reveal a pink nipple. As he watched, it tightened into a hard bud in the chilly air. His arousal heightened until it strained against his pants. He hadn’t had a woman in years but wasn’t about to take advantage of his patient. He might not be a practicing doctor but he still had the morals of one. Reid reached forward and pulled the quilts to cover her properly. With a tired groan, he sat back and tried to numb the desire roaring through his veins. How was he ever going to spend three weeks in a secluded cabin with this woman without laying a hand on her? Was he crazy? Perhaps he was, but he wasn’t about to torment himself with the woman’s nakedness any longer. He would find her a flannel shirt. *** A scream rent the air. Reid’s eyelids snapped open. Disoriented, he stared at the ceiling, searching his mind for a hint of a remaining nightmare. He’d heard the scream. Where had it come from? Leaning on his elbow, he took a ragged breath and rubbed the sleep from his eyes. The rustle of something hitting the floor jolted him. He wasn’t alone. Memory of the wounded woman flooded through his mind. He bolted up just as she emitted a torturous moan from the bed in the corner. He pushed himself from the cozy warmth of his pallet and stood. Shivering in the chilly air, he tested his bad leg. The cold caused the damaged muscles to stiffen and made any type of movement painful. It was the main reason why he hated winter. He slipped into his trousers and hurried to the woman’s side. She shivered violently, the sweat beading up on her face. He placed his hand on her forehead. The heat of her skin nearly seared the flesh from his bones. What he feared most had occurred. Infection thundered through her veins.

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Chapter Two "Damn!" Reid swore. He hurried into the rest of his clothes, then took a bowl from the table and hobbled across the room. There was no way of telling whether the woman would make it through the fever. If he couldn’t get it to break, her life would be in danger. In his haste, he jerked on the latch and pulled the door open. Stepping out on the porch, he scanned the land beyond the cabin. The wind and sleet slashed through his flannel shirt until his teeth chattered and shivers wracked his body. He glanced around the sides of the cabin but couldn’t see through the sheets of snow and ice covering the mountain in white powder. With a weary sigh, he bent over and filled the bowl with snow. When he was finished, he stepped back into the cabin, shaking the bitter cold from his limbs as he shut the door. He remembered the batch of tea he made before he went to bed and hurried to the hearth. As he positioned the kettle on a rack above the flames, he hoped the tea would help bring the woman’s fever down. He shivered. Though the fire was blazing, the room was still cold. Every winter he ended up feeling like a fool. Who in their right mind would stay in the mountains when the risk of freezing to death was so great? Not many would. The townspeople in Helena thought he was a damned idiot for fighting out the harsh winters. Patrons in two of the local saloons used to have a pool of money riding on whether or not he would return to town come summer. He had proven them wrong two years in a row. Reid stoked the fire and placed several logs on the flames to warm the room. The chill from the storm was seeping through every nook and cranny in the cabin. He looked at the woman lying so peaceful on his bed and longed to join her under the blankets and get warm. Finally, steam rolled out from the spout of the kettle. Reid poured the tea into a cup, then crossed the room to stand next to the woman. He set the cup on the nightstand and wished he hadn’t dressed her in the flannel shirt. The less he had to move her, the quicker her wound would heal. Unfastening the top buttons of the shirt, his fingers grazed the soft skin above her breasts. He jerked his hands away and gritted his teeth as images of

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carnal pleasures tormented his thoughts. She was his patient. What was wrong with him? Convinced his feelings had returned to normal, he dipped a cloth in the bowl of melting snow, then swept it over her chest. As he watched, goose bumps spread over her glistening shoulders, then to the tips of her breasts. He groaned and threw the cloth into the water. Without wringing it out, he dripped the cold liquid over his head. He’d never had such a reaction to a patient. When he’d stopped practicing had his professionalism flown out the window? He glanced back to the woman just in time to see her eyelids fly open, revealing delirium in their depths. She tossed in the bed. "Mother," she cried. "The house is on fire! Get father!" He reached forward and pushed her back onto the bed to prevent her from ripping out her stitches. In her feverish state of mind, she had unyielding strength, and he found it difficult to hold her down.. Then, just as quickly, her arms fell limply to her sides, and her gaze grew distant. "The house isn’t on fire," he whispered, reaching forward to smooth her hair from her face. She struggled again, not hearing his words. "Duke! There’s smoke in my room." Reid squeezed her tiny hands and dipped the cloth lying on the nightstand in the water. He dripped the cold liquid over her face and chest. The drops slid over her skin and disappeared beneath the sheets and blankets. She let out what seemed like a sigh, then settled back in the bed and closed her eyes. "Daddy’s not comin’ home. He doesn’t care about us. He doesn’t," she said. "Shhhh," Reid whispered as he tested the warmth of the herbal tea on the nightstand with the tip of his finger. Deciding the liquid was cool enough, he lifted her head and placed the cup to her lips. "Drink this." The woman tilted her head and smiled. "When are you and Mama going to start talkin’ again?" He pressed the cup to her lips and angled it up, ignoring her remark. She bared the silky lines of her neck to him as she drank the tea. A few drops slipped down her chin and disappeared beneath the neckline of her flannel shirt. She finished the entire cup, then cuddled up in the covers. He shivered and glanced at the fireplace. The room wasn’t getting warm enough, and he didn't have any more blankets to give her. Reid glanced back to the woman. She wouldn’t mind. She wouldn’t ever have to know. Making a final decision, he stood, took off his trousers, then climbed into the bed next to her.

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Pulling the pillow beneath his head, he snuggled up to her body and waited in agony for the covers to warm from their combined body heat. Her back fit snugly against his chest and curved into his stomach. He squeezed his eyes shut and gritted his teeth. The bed dipped as silky strands spread over his chest. The musky scent of roses after a midnight rain assaulted his senses. Reid squinted his eyes, resisting the urge to bury his nose in her hair and breathe deeply of the compelling scent. Instead he stiffened and didn’t know whether he should pull himself away from her or pretend it hadn’t happened. He would get up early in the morning. He tried to pull away from her, but her auburn hair tangled around his arm like a spider’s web, entrapping him. Gently, he untangled the strands and pushed her back to the other side of the bed with a tormented sigh. His reaction was uncalled for. He had to get control of his desires. Perhaps, he had been living the celibate lifestyle up in the mountains for far too long. He calmed his breathing and tried to ignore the soft thigh that rested against his. Staring at the ceiling, he knew he had a sleepless night ahead of him. *** Angel awoke to sunlight streaming through the window at the foot of her bed. She bolted up and whimpered as waves of pain coursed through her shoulder. Glancing around the room, she wondered where she was. Nothing looked familiar. She looked down and found herself dressed in a man’s flannel shirt. She unfastened the top buttons, then lifted the edge of the bandages covering her shoulder. Even stitches replaced what had once been a bullet hole. The dark events of the robbery came flooding back to her memory. "Good morning." She started at the sound of a masculine voice, then groaned as the pain in her shoulder made her dizzy. Her hand flew to her hip, and she waited for her fingers to close around the comforting cold steel of her Colt. Only the softness of her naked hip met her fingers. She panicked. Where was her holster and gun? She pulled the blankets closer to her body and found comfort in the warmth. Glancing in the direction of the voice, she saw a man squatting before the fireplace. His long, wavy hair glinted in the firelight like a copper coin. He stared into the flames, transfixed by something she could not see. Finally, he stiffened, and placed several logs on the fire. "Good morning," she answered uncomfortably. "Who are y-you?" "I could ask the same of you."

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As he stoked the fire, she got a good look at him. He wore a red plaid flannel that he had rolled up at his elbows. Her gaze swept over a spattering of ginger colored hair on his arms, then dropped to his muscular legs. The black trousers molded the muscles of his thighs like a second skin and covered the top of his brown leather boots. He extended a thick arm to take an iron poker from the wall. Her mind whirled. Where were Duke and Lee? Did the Hunt gang catch them? Where was her Colt? She never went anywhere without the Colt for protection and felt naked without it. Her hand kept moving to her hip for reassurance, but the gun wasn’t there. The man crossed the room, his limp drawing her attention. He sat in the chair next to the bed and stared at her. When green eyes as clear as cut glass met her gaze, her breath caught in her throat. His gaze took in her hair, her face, then slowly raked down her body. She shivered, her skin burning from his perusal. There was something familiar about his eyes, but she couldn’t put her finger on it. She was certain she hadn’t met him before. What was it? "Do you know why you were brought here?" he asked. Her hand rose to clutch at the neckline of the flannel shirt as she nodded, but once again her hand met only the softness of her skin. She glanced down, horrified. The flannel lay open to the tips of her breasts, exposing far more to the man than was proper. Angel shot him a look of disgust and pulled the flannel closed while her fingers worked over the buttons. How could she have been so careless? "I was shot," she said, realizing her voice sounded strained. "Yes, you were." She looked up, transfixed by the expression on his face. The skin at the corner of the man’s eyes crinkled as his face lit up with a smile. A smile that transformed the rugged expanse of his features into something almost boyish. A straight nose, generous lips and dimples added to the effect. The slight growth of a beard darkening his chiseled jaw was the only thing that didn’t fit into the boyish picture. "What is your name, sir?" Angel asked. "Spencer...Reid Spencer." "And what is it that you do?" She realized the liberty she had just taken with a stranger by asking such a personal question and nervously glanced into his eyes. His expression grew more amused by the moment. The heat of a blush inched up her neck, threatening to expose her thoughts. She tried to calm her nerves, but the heat kept rising until it reached her cheeks. "Do not fret, miss. You haven’t done anything improper." He stood, and hobbled across the room. Again, her gaze fell to his

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injured leg. She watched him, a lump forming in her throat. How sad. Perhaps he had lost the use of his leg in the War Between the States. She glanced at her surroundings. Lace curtains adorned the windows and porcelain trinkets sat on the shelves of the bookcase on the far wall. The entire room spoke of a woman’s taste. What woman had lived here? Was she living there still? She refused to believe a woman would live with such a man. Though he was handsome, he hardly had the social graces it took to be in society. His attitude wasn’t the attitude of a gentleman either. She shivered and pulled the blankets up to her neck. When her family lived in New York, there had been men of every sort. The men who lived and worked in the Montana Territory seemed to be a species of their own. Where the men of New York were sophisticated and debonair, the men of Montana Territory were crude and dirty. In most cases, they were dirtier than she ever imagined a body could be. Angel shivered. The way Reid had looked at her still sent shivers up her spine. She knew that look all too well. When she lived at Lilly’s Parlor, the men crowded into the front room to hear her sing. They always paid her a lot of money, half-hoping she would invite one of them to her bed. They looked at her as though her clothes had suddenly slipped away, and she was standing before them naked. This stranger had such a look. She didn’t like it one bit. Reid slammed the door, then regarded her, his face devoid of emotion. He limped across the room, holding a maroon dress in his arms. "You can change into this," he mumbled, handing it to her. He seemed visibly embarrassed by his gift and looked everywhere but at her. She took the dress and placed it on the quilt. "Thank you," she said, staring awkwardly at her lap. "Are you hungry?" "No," she lied. Only the incessant grumbling of her stomach interrupted the silence that followed. He nodded, not revealing whether he suspected her of lying and limped across the room. The wooden floorboards creaked beneath him as he took a buckskin coat from a hook on the wall and slipped into it. With one last handsome smile, he grabbed the rifle from a rack above the door and pulled on the latch. "Wait!" Angel said, flinging the covers away as she stood. Pain coursed through her shoulder and set it on fire. She bit her lip and tried to ignore it. She wasn’t about to let a little bit of pain get in her way. She crossed the room and stood before him. He couldn’t just leave her there without any explanation. As far as she could tell, her brothers had taken her to a stranger.

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"Do you know what happened to me?" The man turned and regarded her with a raised eyebrow. "You’re the one who showed up on my doorstep. You should be the one answering questions." He leaned over the table and picked up a bottle. He twisted the cork out of the top and took a swig. When she didn’t answer, he arched his eyebrows at her again. "I can’t answer any questions, stranger," she said. Again, she saw something familiar in his eyes but couldn't place it. "You can’t, or you won’t?" "Both." She crossed the room and held out her hand. "But I can tell you my name’s Angel. I want to thank you for saving my life." He looked at her with skepticism in his green eyes and took another swig of whiskey. "Is your shoulder causing you much pain?" "Some. I-Is there permanent damage?" "It’ll take awhile to heal, but no. You'll be able to use your arm again." He turned his back to her and crossed the room to pour something from a pot simmering above the fire into a tin cup. He rejoined her and nodded with encouragement. "It’ll help you forget the pain." When she caught the scent coming from the cup, Angel wrinkled her nose. "What is it?" "It has some lemon, molasses, peppermint and other special herbs. Just drink it." "I would have to guess those mysterious other herbs are what makes it smell so horrible." He smiled and pushed the cup to her lips. She closed her eyes and took several gulps of the thick liquid. The elixir burned in her throat. She glanced warily at Reid but continued drinking. She didn't want to appear weak in front of a stranger. When she was finished, she handed the cup back to him. "Well? Are you all right?" he asked. She looked up at him, desperately trying to blink away the tears. "I’m tryin’ to figure out whether you are tryin’ to poison or heal me." "I assure you it’s the latter, but it made you forget about the pain, didn’t it?" "I have to concentrate so hard on not retchin’ I barely feel the pain at all!" "Glad to see it worked. Now, why don’t you change into your dress," he said, a small grin playing with his lips. Angel glared at him, her eyes widening. "Not until you give me some privacy." "Gladly. Be careful of the wound." With that said, he limped across the room and disappeared through a door. ***

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"Are you dressed?" At the sound of Reid’s voice, Angel’s head shot up. Her hands stilled over the fabric-covered buttons on the dress he’d given her only moments before. Realizing her state of undress was quite improper, she quickly fastened the remaining buttons. "It’s a little late to be askin’, Reid Spencer. If I wasn’t dressed, you would have caught quite a show." "Better late than never." The expression of desire on his face caused her heart to pound. His gaze lingered over her breasts before returning to her face. She looked down and concentrated on her fingernails. "Why d-do you look at me so?" She wondered if he heard the tiny quake in her words and fought for a breath to calm her frayed nerves. "Why does any man look at a beautiful woman?" Angel’s hand flew up to finger the lace neckline of the dress. She knew full well he was only flattering her and his words didn’t hold a bit of truth. When she was young the children at school had called her 'Angel the ugly one' and though many men told her differently, she couldn’t forget those troubling years. "Don’t try to flatter me." "It wasn’t a compliment. It was a statement of fact." She realized her mouth was hanging open and snapped it shut. Trying to change the discussion to a more comfortable subject, she ran her hand over the skirt appreciatively. "Where did you find this?" "It was my wife’s." She glanced up, trying to keep her expression from showing her surprise. Everything was starting to make sense. She had wondered about the womanly decorations scattered throughout the room and now she had her answer. He had a wife. Angel fingered the material of the expensive dress. Not only did he have a wife, but it seemed she also came from upper class breeding. She couldn't fathom the idea of anyone with such a high standing in society marrying someone like him. "Where is she?" she finally asked. His eyes narrowed dangerously, and she thought she saw a hint of pain in the striking green depths. While she watched, his gaze turned cold. He ran his hand through his dark hair. "She won’t be coming around, if that’s what you’re wondering." "I didn’t mean to pry." She said, crossing her arms over her breasts. He met her gaze with a look that burned her skin. "Looks like the dress fits you well enough. A little too tight over-" "Thank you, it fits fine enough," she interrupted, noticing his gaze had dipped, once again, to her breasts. Heat spread up her neck and over her cheeks until she thought she would die of embarrassment.

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She watched Reid cross the room to stand next to the writing desk. His gaze searched her face. "You must be hungry. You haven’t eaten much other than what I was able to feed you during your fever." "How long have I been here?" "Three days." "T-three days? That’s impossible," she sputtered. "Is it really? You were shot and infection set in. You must have traveled a long distance to get here." Angel narrowed her eyes. "I’m still not answerin’ your questions." She knew that if she slipped and accidentally told him something, he might be able to figure out who she was. A slip could get her hung. Reid slammed his hand on the table, startling her. "I think I’m owed an explanation. You could have died out there, but I saved your life." "If you don’t know who I am now, you’ll not be findin’ out." She closed her eyes. Why had she said such a thing? Now he probably knew she had something to hide. Could she keep nothing from this man? She made a mental note to think through everything she was going to say before she ever opened her mouth. She sighed and clamped her teeth down on her tongue. "What the hell is that supposed to mean?" he said, his eyes bright with anger. "Figure it out yourself, stranger." "You know my name. Don’t call me, stranger," he growled. "When I feel I know you better, I’ll call you anythin’ you would like me to call you." Angel sat down in one of the chairs at the table. "Until then, live with it...stranger." She couldn’t understand why this man so easily riled her temper. For some reason, he made her feel challenged. He made her feel alive. "So that’s the way it’s going to be?" "It’s the only way it can be." "I don’t believe it is." "Then I’ll..." She stopped in mid-sentence and walked to the nearest window. A thin film had formed over the glass. She swiped at it with her sleeve, but it refused to budge. Standing on the tip of her toes, she peeked out of the corner of the glass and saw the caps of the mountains in the distance. She turned back to Reid. "Then I’ll walk down the damn mountain myself." When the words left her lips, she realized her mistake. Which mountain were they on? There were several mountains and hills surrounding Helena. How far had Duke and Lee taken her? She crossed her arms over her breasts, her confidence slipping. "How long of a walk is it?" Reid grinned confidently. "You wouldn’t last a mile, woman." Again, she noted the challenge in his voice. "Oh I wouldn’t, would I?

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Why is that?" "You're hurt. It's too far for you to walk." Angel pressed her lips together. She didn’t like how certain he seemed. "We’ll see about that." She marched over to the door and threw it open. Her breath caught in her throat as the chilly air swept into the room. She blinked her eyes. She blinked them again, hoping what she saw before her wasn’t truly there. Before long, she had to acknowledge that a drift as tall as the cabin stood just beyond the porch. She wasn’t going anywhere. That much was evident. "That ought to take the energy out of your lightening. We aren't going anywhere for about three weeks. Now shut the damn door before you give us a chill." *** When Duke and Lee rode through the pine trees bordering the Walker land, the sun was beginning to dip behind the mountains. Duke rode his horse over a hill and caught a glimpse of their cabin through the trees. After they’d left Angel with the doctor, the storm had forced them to take shelter in an old abandoned cabin for three days. He was glad to be back but would have felt much better if Angel was returning with him. He shivered as the cold descended into the valley. Halting his horse next to the porch, he dismounted. He smiled as Lee bounded up the stairs. His younger brother took after their father with blonde hair and a shorter frame, but the likeness ended with his appearance. Lee was every bit as stubborn as their mother. All of the Walker siblings had inherited her spirit. Duke tied the reins to the porch, then took a carefully rolled cigarette from his shirt pocket. "Duke!" Lee shouted. He threw his cigarette into the brush and followed his brother’s gaze. His heart skipped a beat as he stared at their broken belongings lying on the floor of the cabin. The pieces of his mother’s wedding china glinted in the remaining sunlight. Duke took the steps of the rotting porch two at a time until he was standing in the kitchen. He curled his fingers into a fist. "I’ll kill ‘em!" Dishes and other porcelain trinkets lined the floor in pieces. He walked further into the room, his boots crushing the porcelain shards. He bent and retrieved a broken picture frame. A shard of glass pierced his thumb, but he barely noticed. He took the unharmed picture of his mother and slipped it into his shirt pocket, a lump forming in his throat.

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"It was the Hunt gang, wasn’t it?" Lee asked, his blue eyes widening. Duke stood helplessly before the pieces of his mother’s memories. Her heart would break if she ever found out what had happened to her precious wedding gifts. He gritted his teeth to keep the anger at bay. "It was," he said. He heard the wooden boards on the porch creak. Pulling his gun from its holster, he trained it on the door. "Come out with your hands in the air. A foolish man makes a dead man." A woman with dancing blue eyes and hair the color of warm honey stepped into the doorway. She wore a low cut red gown revealing enough to catch any man’s attention. God knew she had caught his eye a time or two. She smiled and leaned seductively against the door. "After all we meant to each other you’re goin’ to shoot me? Come on, Sugar. I didn’t even make you pay the first time." Duke lowered the gun with an exasperated sigh. "Lilly, I came real close to shootin’ you. Haven’t I told you not to sneak up on a man like that?" "Now that’s a fine way to treat an old friend. Why don’t you come on over here and give me a kiss," Lilly purred. "It’s been a long time, hasn’t it?" "Lillian! What are you doing here?" Duke said, losing patience. "She's only tryin' to help," Lee stated quietly from the corner. Lilly pouted. "You don’t have to go and be mean about it, Cowboy. Thought you might want to know Old Bill is fine." He frowned. He was glad the old ranch hand wasn’t harmed, but he had more troublesome things to think about. "Does he know who did this?" "I think I might have an idea." Duke was leery. Had she heard something? He bent down and picked up a porcelain trinket that had somehow remained intact. It was a hand-painted ballerina his father had bought for his mother on their honeymoon in England. He pressed it into his palm and glanced into Lilly’s eyes. "How would you know who did this?" Her brightly painted lips spread into a generous smile. "Elsie Mae had a rather..." She wrinkled her nose, then continued, "Uncleanly sort ask for her favors." "And?" He prodded. He hoped Lilly wasn’t going to make the story into some dramatized theater production. She had a point of doing so when she was trying to get his attention. "She said he couldn’t stop talkin’ about you and how some man named Johnny hadn’t wanted anyone to harm the girl." Lilly paused and cleared her throat. "He said Johnny was going to pay you back for meddlin' with his orders." Duke smiled. He itched to wash his hands of the Hunt gang for good. He might get the chance sooner than he had ever dreamed. "Was Angel hurt?" Lilly asked, her eyes wide with worry.

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He cupped her elbow with his hand and helped her into the only chair left in the room. "She was shot in the shoulder." Her bottom lip started to tremble. "Did you take her to the man I told you about?" Duke nodded. "We did and almost got stuck in the blizzard. Now, tell me about the man I left my sister with. If I recall, we were rather...detained when you mentioned he was a doctor here in Helena ten years ago. You only said that he would be a good doctor to see if one of us was ever hurt." She shuffled her feet and looked thoughtful. "Not ten years ago! Only a year or so. He was a regular customer of mine a year back, but he stopped comin’ around." She pouted. Her bottom lip swelled until Duke wondered why he didn’t visit her more often. "He was married for years and held a practice in town. Then somethin’ happened. Whatever it was, he has to use a cane now." His mouth went dry. "Why?" She frowned. "I’m not sure. I thought there was a rumor going round about a shootin’ or somethin’ but I can’t right recall." "Reid Spencer." Duke never thought he would ever have to mention the man’s name again. He had made sure Angel never learned what she did to the man or who he was. Lilly’s eyes widened. "How did you know? Do you know him?" He threw the figurine he held in his hand against the wall, not entirely thrilled when it shattered. Lilly started to cry, but he didn’t have any sympathy for her. All he could think about was Angel. Poor Angel. What if the doctor found out before they could get to her? Lee shook his head, his blue eyes as wide as saucers. "This ain’t possible. How could we have taken her to a man we knew nothin’ about?" Duke frowned and glanced at Lilly. "Because we thought Lilly knew what she was doing." He regretted his words immediately. Lilly looked crushed. She crumbled into a little ball on the chair and cried silently, the tears streaking down her face. Duke walked to her and knelt on the floor. He touched her chin, then waited until she looked into his eyes. "I’m sorry, Lil." Her rouge streaked down her face as a fresh burst of tears slipped from her eyes. "I’m sorry. I didn’t know." She wiped her tears away with the back of her hand. "We can’t get up the mountain until the snow melts. That won't be for at least two weeks if not more," Lee whispered hoarsely from the door. The minute Duke thought about his sister, the anger and feelings of helplessness resurfaced. "We’ve just left Angel with the man she shot on one of the robberies!" Lilly cleared her throat and looked regretful. "If she ain’t in her disguise,

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then he probably ain’t going to recognize her." Duke pursed his lips together. "And if he does?" Lilly bit her lip. "If he recognizes her..." She paused and shook her head. "He was always an angry sort and I wonder if’n it wasn’t because of his leg. When he was crippled his wife left him."

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Chapter Three "Shut the damn door before you catch pneumonia, woman." Angel ignored Reid and crossed her arms over her breasts to still her shivering. Spending the next three weeks with the intolerable man in a secluded cabin seemed unbearable. In all honesty, she had to admit Reid wasn’t the problem. Her family’s welfare bothered her more than anything. She hoped her brothers would get the money to their mother before she grew worried and traveled back to Helena to check on them. She didn’t want her mother to leave the healing climate of Colorado when it had helped her consumption. Neither did she want her mother to find out the lengths that they had taken to support her for the last year. She would never understand. Angel stared warily at the drift of snow surrounding the porch and didn’t know what to do or expect. It would be weeks before they could travel. What if Reid wasn't what he seemed? What if... Warm hands circled her arms and for a moment she felt weightless, suspended in air. She was about to scream, but it caught in her throat as she came crashing down into a pile of snow. Within moments her teeth started to chatter. Something wet plopped on her head. She came up sputtering and tried to wipe the melting snow from her face before it slipped down the neckline of her dress. Angel glared at Reid. He stared back, his smug smile taunting her. Obviously, the lion had a thorn stuck in his paw. She came to her feet and faced him. "What the h-hell d-did you d-do that for?" she said, her teeth chattering. He stared at her with more than a hint of amusement in his green eyes. She watched him take a swig from the bottle of amber liquid and wrinkled her nose. Judging by the number of times the bottle touched his lips, she knew he was intent on becoming intoxicated. She wondered what he was trying to forget with the liquor. "You didn’t shut the door when I told you to, so I decided you would be more considerate in the future if I taught you a lesson." "B-bastard." "We’re starting off rather well." "Just heavenly," Angel said, glancing warily at Reid. "You’re drunk."

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He looked down at the bottle with a lazy grin that made her heart slam against her chest. "Getting there. Care to join me?" "No, thank you. You’re obviously content drownin’ your problems in liquor all by yourself. I’ll leave the drinkin’ to you," she spat. "Well, aren’t we noble. You too good for whiskey?" She squared her shoulders. "Not at all. I just know when it’s time to quit. It’s a lesson you would be wise to learn." "Damn, you have a mouth on you! Someone needs to take you over their knee and give you a wallop or two." She stamped the heel of her boot in the snow. "How dare you!" He unhooked his belt. "Is that what you need, Angel? A good spanking?" She snatched the bottle of whiskey from Reid’s hand. Not thinking of the consequences, she slammed it against the porch. The glass shattered, tinkling to the wooden floorboards. She smiled with satisfaction. His precious whiskey dotted the pristine snow. Perhaps she’d made her point. "If you ever do that again, I’ll wring your scrawny neck," Reid said, his voice low and threatening. Then again, maybe she had only made things worse. Angel shook her head. "You wouldn’t." "Try me." To her relief, Reid turned away and walked back to the cabin. When he swayed and grabbed the door for balance, she resisted the urge to return the favor and push him in the snow. Feeling guilty, she considered reaching forward to steady him but decided against it. The damn fool could fall off the mountain for all she cared. Finally, he managed to open the door and disappeared inside the cabin. A chill ran up her spine. She glanced down at her dress. The material was soaking wet. She would surely catch a chill if she didn’t go inside. Though she wanted to stay as far away from Reid as possible, she didn't find freezing to death a viable option. He was hardly in a condition to take care of her. She walked inside the cabin and shut the door behind her. Shaking off the cold, she knelt before the hearth and stirred the coals with an iron poker. She placed several logs on the fire and sighed triumphantly as the flames sprang to life. Rising to her feet, she searched the room for Reid. The sound of boots hitting the wooden floor echoed from the adjoining room. She smiled, relieved. Maybe he would sleep off the liquor. She sure didn't want to spend three weeks entertaining a drunk. She blinked her eyes and decided sleep didn't sound like a bad idea. Her shoulder was throbbing and she had to bite her lip to keep from groaning with

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the pain. A dress of emerald silk thrown across the bed stopped her short. Frowning, she noticed several pieces of beef jerky resting on the bedspread. Her heart skipped a beat. He had left them for her. She hurried to the bed and ate the jerky piece by piece, surprised by her hunger. When she’d finished, she changed out of her wet clothes and into the beautiful gown. A loud crash came from the adjoining room, startling her. Angel buttoned up her dress as best she could. "What the hell has he gotten himself into now?" she muttered to herself. She entered the bedroom and shook her head with distaste. Reid was face down on the bed, his arm hanging limply over the side. The remains of the whiskey bottle were a shattered mess of glass on the hardwood floor. "I should leave you here, Reid Spencer," she said out loud, hoping he heard her through his drunken stupor. Her gaze fell to his stockinged feet sticking over the side of the bed. If he woke up, he would step on the glass and hurt himself. Angrily, she bent over, collected the broken pieces and set them on the nightstand. Angel placed her hands on her hips, stretched her back, and then glanced around the room. The bedroom was decorated much like the main room. An expensive lace covered the window and matched the bedspread and pillows. Perfume bottles and hairbrushes covered one of the dressers. The other, much smaller, had tools and paraphernalia littered over the top. She ran her finger over the surface, wiping a path of dust from the wood and shook her head. He must have kept the room exactly the way it was the day his wife left him. She picked up one of the crystal perfume bottles and pulled the cap off the top. The essence of lilacs rose from the bottle, clouding her senses. She set it back on the dresser and turned to face the room, no longer wishing to delve into his wife’s things. She sat down on the end of the bed and watched him sleep. Reid and his wife spent their nights in this room. They made love on this very bed. For some reason, she was uncomfortable knowing so much about their private times. The bed shifted beneath her. She turned in time to see a gold coin fall out of Reid’s pocket and roll under the bed. She sighed and got down on her hands and knees. Grabbing blindly under the bed, her hand closed around it. Triumphantly, she set it on the table. She glanced up. Green eyes as deep as the clearest lake in Montana delved into her soul. He reached forward and touched her face with a callused hand. "Come to bed," he said, his voice deep and tender. Angel turned her face into his hand and closed her eyes. When he

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chuckled, her eyelids snapped open, and she pulled away. He grabbed her and held her still as his hand slowly slid up and down her arm. She shivered and tried to pull away. "I will not," she whispered fiercely. His brows creased with an expression of pain. Her heart twisted, and she wished it was in her power to take back the offending words. There was love in his gaze, and it hurt to know she would never see such an emotion directed toward her from a man. A callused finger rubbed the skin at her inner elbow and caused chills to charge up her spine. His eyes pleaded with her. "You’ve been sleeping out on that damn bed for months now." She shook her head, confused. "Months?" "Alice, please come to bed." Alice. She wondered if that was his wife’s name. Her heart dropped into her stomach. He thought she was Alice. A beefy arm snaked out, and before she could move away, an iron-like vise gripped her waist, pulling her down on the bed. She struggled against his strength but exhaustion made her weak. Her shoulder screamed with the pain, and she felt the stitches start to tear. If she continued fighting, she would open her wound. "Unhand me this minute, Reid Spencer." "I won’t." Angel bit her lip to avoid crying out. "You’re drunk and don’t know what you’re doing." "On the contrary, I know exactly what I’m doing. You should be sleeping with me." She tried to stop the tears from gathering in the corner of her eyes, but it seemed impossible. "I’m not your wife." He scowled at her until she looked away to escape his penetrating stare. "The divorce hasn’t gone through yet, Alice. You are still my wife." She stared incredulously into his eyes. Divorce? She couldn’t have heard him right. Is that why he told her his wife wouldn’t be coming around? Had they divorced? "Please let me go," Angel pleaded. He didn’t move a muscle, and she knew the minute she tried to fight him, he would pin her against his chest again. With a squeal of frustration, she settled in the bed. He would only make it miserable for her if she fought him. She squirmed next to him and groaned. The muscles in his thighs twitched against her calves. She shivered as tingles swept up her back. She tried to hold herself as far away from Reid as possible, but her neck began to ache from holding it up for so long. Giving in, she rested her head on his chest.

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She took a deep breath, reveling in the warmth of his body. He smelled like a forest of pine trees and a touch of whiskey. She nuzzled her nose into the hollow of his chest with a satisfied sigh. The fluttering of his heart against her ear triggered a sensation of loneliness in the pit of her stomach. Tears stung the corner of her eyes. She had often wondered what it would feel like to lie next to a man and listen to his heartbeat. Angel closed her eyes and sighed. What would it feel like to know all her life a man would call her his wife and affectionately tug her hair in public? What of the intimate nights in the darkness of a bedroom a husband and wife shared? Would he tell her he loved her with a tender kiss across her lips? Is that what it meant to be in love? She rubbed her cheek against the front of his shirt and sighed as Reid’s arms tightened around her. This wasn’t the man she’d dreamed of on those lonely nights. She dreamt of a man in society. A well-groomed sort who knew what he wanted with his life. A man who would sweep her off her feet with gifts and undying love. Now, years later, she doubted a man such as the one in her dreams would know what undying love was. Reid looked peaceful while he slept. His face was slack, his expression as serene as a little boy’s. His hair lay on the pillow in dark waves and tangled with her auburn strands on his chest. Her hand shook as she raised it. She rubbed the shiny locks between her index finger and thumb, then let the silken strands fall through her fingers. Somehow, she never expected the man to have soft hair. She expected it to be just as coarse as he was. She turned over and moved as far away as Reid’s arms would allow. Fortunately, he didn’t pull her back against him. The contact with this man was causing her to think about the things that she made a point of clearing from her mind. It was dangerous to think about her inner longings. Once she’d become an outlaw, she gave up any future she might have with a man. "Hmmm. Alice." Angel stiffened as Reid pulled her back against his chest. He snuggled up to her and rested his lips against the back of her neck. As his lips tickled her skin with a soft kiss, goose bumps spread all over her body. She stilled and tried to calm the feelings racing through her at such an intimate caress. She prayed the night would go quickly and she could separate herself from this man. She waited for his breathing to return to normal and relaxed against his chest. He thought she was Alice. He wasn’t kissing her. He was kissing his wife. She shook her head and tried to stop thinking about him. She felt a deep stirring of her soul in Reid’s arms and didn’t know why such a man would

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intrigue her. She squeezed her eyes shut and tried to think of something other than Reid. Had her brothers sold the gold and wired the money to their mother? If Emily Walker didn't receive the money within the week, she would be on the next stagecoach to Montana to check on her children. That was the last thing any of the Walker siblings wanted. Duke, Angel and Lee had worked hard to protect their mother from the hardships they faced when their gold started disappearing from the mines. And they hadn’t told her that they were forced to become outlaws to take back their gold or face starvation. The doctor in Colorado had stressed that Emily Walker could not be bothered. Anything other than a relaxed atmosphere could worsen her consumption and kill her. Tears gathered in her eyes, and she quickly dashed them away. Her mother hadn't been the same after her husband left her for the mines in Montana. Even after he was killed in a dispute over a whore in town, she never gave up on him. All by herself, she’d fixed up her husband's cabin and went to work in the mines, desperate to get back the money her husband had lost on his foolish dreams. Several months later, their mother had found the vein of gold in the walls of the mine. But when her consumption worsened, she left for the healing climate of Colorado, a precursor to the thefts that ravaged their mines. She sighed and closed her eyes. Their mother thought the money came from the gold mines. She thought they were rich. She pressed her palm to her forehead. She wouldn’t think of their lies. She couldn't or she would haunt herself with the devastating possibilities. The only thing she could do was pray that the situation at home was better than the situation at Reid’s. *** Something soft swept over Reid's face and tickled his nose. His eyelids snapped open. "What the hell?" he whispered groggily. He blinked several times and focused his eyes on the window above the bed. The light made his head pound. He rubbed his aching temples until the pain lessened. Leaning up on his elbow, he glanced down at the sleeping figure next to him. Angel slept peacefully, snuggled up in his bed. Her hair splayed over her pillow in soft auburn waves and tickled his arm. His hand rose and stopped, suspended over her face. Instead of touching the silky texture of her hair as he had intended, he curled his fingers into a fist and let his hand fall back to rest on the quilt. During the night her dress had tangled around her legs. The skirt had hiked up to her hips and left little to his imagination. Creamy thighs extended

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from curvaceous hips, nearly causing him to lose control. His hands itched with a need to touch her, but he refrained. Somehow, Reid pulled his gaze away and stared at the dresser on the opposite side of the room. He searched his memory for the reason she was in his bed. His head pounded a reminder. He had spent the night filling his belly with whiskey. He glanced at her again. "Good morning, Angel." He watched her turn to gaze over her shoulder. She groaned and squeezed her eyes shut, then turned on her back with a sigh. Obviously she wasn’t thrilled to be in his bed. He touched her shoulder lightly and grinned. "It’s a little soon for you to be sleeping with me. Didn’t your mother teach you any manners?" She bolted up next to him, then cried out and grabbed her shoulder. His head seemed to explode into a million shards of pain at the sound of her high pitched screech. He fell back in the bed and pulled a pillow over his head. "Don’t do that again. My head is splitting in two," he mumbled from beneath the pillow. "Well, I’m not sorry in the slightest bit, Reid Spencer. If I have to, I’ll keep screamin’ just to get you to leave me alone." He pulled the pillow away from his face and glanced up at her with a frown. "What do you mean, ‘leave you alone’? What happened last night?" He didn't feel tired as though he had made love. Why couldn’t he remember sleeping with her? Oh God! Did he force her? "Quit assumin’ the worst happened when it didn’t!" Angel spouted. His breath rushed from his lungs. He hadn’t forced her. Recalling her words, he grinned devilishly. "Worst? I don’t think I would call it the worst." Angel’s eyes narrowed. He saw a blush creep up her neck and over her cheeks. She sat up in the bed and traced the squares of the quilt at her waist. He couldn’t help the chuckle that slipped from his lips. He could tell she was trying her damnedest not to look at him. "In your dreams, Reid Spencer," she said, her voice hoarse with an emotion he couldn't identify. He noticed the tension in her shoulders and grinned. "You mean we didn’t--" "Of course not!" Her gaze darted up to meet his. She threw the covers back with a snap of her arm and pulled herself from the bed. Reid leaned on his elbow and shook his head at her. "And here I woke up thinking we’d reached God together last night. What a shame." Angel’s hands clenched into fists at her sides. "Oh! I give up! You are despicable!" "Well, thank you. That’s the nicest thing anyone’s ever said to me. Remind me to fish for compliments from you more often."

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She stomped her foot. "Are you like this every time you get intoxicated?" He pushed the covers back and stood up. His arm flew out to steady himself. He teetered, then gained his footing. "Unfortunately." *** A picture on the writing desk caught Angel’s attention. Picking it up, she saw a radiantly beautiful woman with long hair and bright expressive eyes staring back at her. A tiny smile played at the corners of the woman’s lips making her appear all the more attractive. She knew it was Alice. She set the picture back in its place and wondered why they had divorced. Reid loved her. That much was certain. She ached for him. She couldn't imagine loving someone so intensely and not have the affection returned. She glanced around the room with a heavy heart. It seemed as though he had given her everything he possessed, and somewhere along the way she had stopped loving him. That is to say that she had ever loved him at all. She was beginning to understand why he drowned himself in whiskey, but she wasn't about to let it continue. Angel searched through the cupboards until she found his supply of whiskey. She gathered the bottles in her hands and turned to cross the room. "What do you think you’re doing?" She nearly dropped the bottles. Glancing up, she saw Reid stumble from the doorway of the adjoining bedroom and shot him a determined look. He glanced at the bottles in her hands for what seemed like an hour. A nervous giggle rose in her throat. She felt one of the bottles slipping from her fingers and passed it to her other hand with a half-hearted smile. He met her gaze with an expression as dark as a midnight storm. "What are you doing with those?" The dangerous look in his eyes made her flinch. She almost lost her nerve and told him she was just organizing the cupboards but found the courage to face him. She gritted her teeth. "I’m doing somethin’ you should have done long ago." His jaw clenched. "What might that be?" "I’m going to pour this vile liquid out in the snow." She saw his hands flash out, then groaned as he gripped her arm. Instantly, he loosened his hold. "I’d suggest you put those bottles right back where you found them, Angel." "I will do no such thing. If you intend to drink your way to oblivion when I’m in your care, then..." Damn! She thought to herself. What a time to forget what she had wanted to say. She fought to find the words again.

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Reid shook his head, his expression deadly. "Let me put it this way. You don’t know me or what I’m capable of. You had best put them back where you found them." Put that way, Angel did exactly as he asked. *** Several hours later, Reid stared into the fire, mesmerized by the intensity of the colors as they merged and divided into flames. The wood crackled and burst into tiny coals, igniting the few leftover scraps of paper in the hearth. They lit, grew brighter, then faded into tiny bits of ash. "Why do you always stare into the fire like that? What do you see there?" He tore his gaze from the flames and looked up to see Angel standing next him, her hair a copper halo around her soft face. He reached out and took the iron poker from the wall. As he stirred the coals, he cleared his throat. "I see my father’s death." He heard her gasp and imagined her pretty hands covered her mouth in horror. He looked up and noticed that she was doing nothing of the sort. She had simply crossed her arms and looked down at him sympathetically. She was different than any women he had ever met. She was intriguing, and he wanted to find out what made her tick. What made her cry? What made her laugh? He shook his head. It was impossible. They would go their separate ways once her wound healed. "I’m sorry to hear that. Was it painful for you?" "Some. He left my mother and me when I was but a babe. I often wonder what it would be like to die in a fire." "How morbid of you." He nodded and returned to stirring the coals. "Perhaps." "I find it hard to believe you cared so little for him when you fantasize about his death so frequently." She hit upon something he did not wish to discuss with anyone. He placed the poker against the wall and crossed the room. His father was a nobody. A simple excuse for a man who wasted his life away in seclusion except for a whore in town every other week. He never wanted to become such a failure. Yet, as he thought about it, the truth chilled his heart. He had followed in his father’s footsteps. "Where is your mother?" "She died in the same fire." An uncomfortable silence stood between them.

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"Reid?" A warm hand touched his back and he tensed. She was too close. She had pried her way beneath the protective shell he’d erected against the world, and he didn't like it one bit. "What do you want?" he asked tersely, trying to mask his emotions. "Oh nothin’," she whispered. He turned and watched her cross the room. Perhaps he had been too quick to snap at her. She stopped midway and whirled around. "Nothing except I know what you are feelin’. My father abandoned us in New York, then spent all our money on foolish dreams. I have a lifetime yet to despise him." She glanced at the bed, then back to him. "I’m going to rest. I’m tired." Reid watched her turn and climb beneath the covers of the bed, the skirt tangling around her feet. He could tell she was fighting her emotions from the rapid rise and fall of her chest. She had surprised him with her confession, and now he didn't know what to feel. What was she thinking? Did he dare ask?

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Chapter Four Angel tried to calm her breathing but found a lump had lodged in her throat, making it nearly impossible. She didn’t know what had come over her. How could she have let herself get so personal with him? He was a complete stranger! She shook her head. The look in his eyes had compelled her to tell her own story. It was as if he had a lifetime of regret on his shoulders. She knew that feeling all too well. She regretted the turn her life had taken. Though her mother’s health had improved, she still had the haunting knowledge that she was an outlaw. Any Sheriff set on justice wouldn’t think twice about hanging her. How could she ever dream of having a husband and children when she knew what could happen? The room went dark. She squinted and saw Reid’s form moving around the table in the moonlight. As she watched, he took his boots off and let them fall to the floor with a bang. The sound startled her. She had to bite her lip to keep from making any noise or die of embarrassment at being caught watching him. Hearing the soft rumble of his laughter, she panicked. Did he know she was watching him undress? The idea frightened her, and she squeezed her eyes shut. Cloth rustled. Her eyes snapped open, and she saw Reid's shirt fall to the floor. When he bent to pick it up, the muscles in his back stretched and pulled. The breath hissed through her teeth. She couldn't move--could only stare at the handsome man standing a short distance away in nothing but trousers. She watched him unfasten his pants and stared in awe as he pushed them down to his ankles, obviously unaware of her observation. Her gaze followed his every movement. She closed her eyes. Don’t let him get to you, Angel. Let him be. He's just a man. Sleep didn’t come easily that night. ***

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"My hands may be a little cold," Reid whispered. He sat behind Angel on the quilted bedspread and slowly began removing her bandages, not wanting to hurt her. His gaze swept down her back, the sight stilling his hands. She had unbuttoned the dress to the rise of her hips, and though she wore a chemise, it hid little of her attributes. He forced his gaze from the compelling indentation along her spine only to notice a rose colored mole over her left hip. He shifted uncomfortably on the bed. He tried to look away, but the creamy skin over her hip seemed to beckon a touch from him. The idea held him riveted. The more he allowed himself to entertain the idea of touching her, the harder he found it to satisfy himself with the texture of the quilt. He bit his lip in an attempt to curb the desire roaring through his loins. How could he leave her alone when she so naively tempted him? He clenched his hands to keep them from shaking, then pulled the material from her shoulder as gently as possible. She cried out, surprising him. "I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you," he whispered. Her hand flew up and covered his. "Please wait. It stings." The warmth of her hand coupled with the softness of her skin did little to ease his desire. He fought the urge to entwine his fingers with hers and pulled his hand away. She glanced over her shoulder and leveled sapphire eyes glazed with pain in his direction. "Go on. I can take it." He admired her for her strength. He could tell she was in pain, but other than the way she clamped her bottom lip between her teeth, she didn’t cry out or flinch. He eased the bandage from her shoulder and set it on the nightstand. "There," he said gently. "The rest won't hurt." Her shoulders relaxed, but she didn’t say a word. Reid inspected her bullet wound. "It’s healing nicely." "Good." He pressed his lips together. "That’s not to say it won’t get infected if you aren’t careful." He replaced the bandage with a clean one, then reached forward to pull her dress back up over her shoulders. His fingers grazed the tender skin at her collarbone. He let his hand linger on her shoulder as if taking it away would be detrimental to his health. "Is something wrong?" He pulled his hand away and frowned. What the hell was wrong with him? Why did he turn into an utter fool when she was near? He felt Angel’s gaze on his face and glanced up. "Nothing is wrong. Why do you ask?" He gritted his teeth wondering if she thought he sounded like a bumbling dunderhead...a guilty one at that. "Should there be something

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wrong?" "Your actions say otherwise." He frowned. "You’re mistaken." Her gaze narrowed and swept over his face as if to judge whether he was lying. "Perhaps." Reid relaxed. "But I doubt it." He refused to banter with her any longer and pulled the material back over her shoulders. Fastening the buttons, he worked his way up her dress. "You should eat more. The food will give you the extra energy you need to heal quicker." "I’ll try." He fastened the last button at the nape of her neck and tried to ignore the goose pimples spreading over her skin. Clenching his hands, he resisted the urge to pull her into his arms and taste the softness of her lips. He bolted up from the bed and threw the bandages in a pail near the door. "How long do you think it’ll be before we can travel?" Reid turned to see her pull the blanket up to her neck. She visibly shivered. "Three weeks. You’re cold," he stated. She nodded. "A little." Kneeling before the fireplace, he stoked the fire and tried to ignore the sapphire eyes that watched his every move. After placing more logs on the flames, he stood and retrieved a blanket from the adjoining room. He hurried to the bed. He knew she was watching him while he spread the blanket over her but didn’t allow himself the luxury of returning her stare. He forced himself to look only at the bed as he tucked the folds beneath her body. "You'll feel warmer in a moment," He said, his gaze drifting up to stare into the blue of her eyes. She watched him closely with a small tilt to her lips. His gaze darted over her face. There was something in her expression...something familiar. He shook his head. They had never met before. He would have remembered such a beauty if they had ever crossed paths before. Reid pushed the thought from his mind. "I’ll make some stew. You must be hungry." "No, not really." A distinctive rumbling came from Angel’s stomach. "Your stomach calls you a liar." She groaned. "It isn’t the first time." "I would suppose not." Reid stood and crossed the room. Opening the door to the pantry, he

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retrieved a slab of meat from a barrel in the corner with his knife. On the way out, he grabbed three potatoes from a sack. He glanced up and looked for Angel. She stood by the counter and was tapping her foot with a peculiar expression of impatience on her face. He nearly dropped the potatoes. "Why aren’t you in bed?" he demanded. "I’m going to help you with dinner." Reid pressed his lips together. "You will do no such thing! Try to get some sleep. You need your rest." She threw her head back and stared at him. "I am not an invalid, Reid and I will do as I want. Now hand me the damn potatoes." *** Reid watched Angel closely, knowing damn well that she wouldn’t like his apparent observation. She scurried around the kitchen like a mother with ten hungry mouths to feed. In one fluid motion, she took two tin plates from the cabinet with her right hand, then bent to remove the potato casserole from the oven with her left. Her body jerked with the effort of removing the heavy pan. She looked different today. More beautiful than the day before and he couldn’t keep his eyes off her. As if she had guessed his thoughts, she glanced over her shoulder with a frown, yanked the pan from the oven with a cloth and slammed the door shut. She whirled and glared at him. "You're pretty useless today. All you’ve been doing is starin' at me. Don’t you have better things to do?" "That bothers you?" He saw her ears pinken and grinned. She met his gaze. "Yes, it does. Set the damn table if you have nothin’ better to do." Reid stood and crossed the room, his arm brushing against hers. "All you had to do was ask." He set the table, then returned to his chair. Leaning back, he watched her stir the soup cooking on the oven and caught a delicious scent of biscuits wafting through the air as she moved back to the counter. A forgotten memory forced it’s way to the forefront of his thoughts. He frowned, trying to push it away, but it was already there, haunting him. His mother, her blonde hair neatly twisted into a bun on the back of her head, bent over the counter as she dipped her hands into the flour. She told him that she was making his favorite desert for dinner and began punching her hands into the dough. Then, the memory changed and he saw his mother standing at the counter, her shoulders shaking so forcefully that she could barely keep her

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hands in the dough. She was crying again. She was crying because Pa hadn’t come home. "Are you ill?" Reid blinked his eyes and focused on Angel standing over him, her face creased with worry. "No, I’m fine." She nodded her head though she didn’t look convinced. He pushed the sorrow lacing his heart back beneath the surface and watched her dip steaming food onto the plates with a skill that came from years of serving large platters of food. "You have a large family, don’t you?" he asked. She stiffened but didn’t look in his direction. "I have two brothers. Why do you ask?" "You heap the plates with food rather then dole out portions." She laughed, a carefree sound that squeezed his heart. "My brothers eat like horses. It was a lot easier to pile the food on the plates rather than making several trips to the kitchen when they wanted more." Reid grinned. "Makes sense." "Your turn." He frowned. "My turn for what?" "To answer a question." Reid took a chance. "All right." "Is Alice the woman in the picture?" she asked, her voice as soft as a gentle breeze. Her question caught him off guard. Before he could think to do otherwise, he answered her. "Yes." She crossed the room with the plates in her hands and set them on the table. He met her pleased expression with a smile, then handed her a cloth napkin from the center of the table. She took it with a generous smile, sat down, and then tilted her head in his direction. "Where is she?" "You ask too much," he snapped. Reid felt uncomfortable with the silence following his outburst and ran his hand through his hair. He sighed and started to eat. The broken icicles Angel had collected earlier from the roof of the cabin rattled in the pitcher of water as she poured two glasses, one obviously meant for him. He offered her a smile and hoped she would take it as it was...a peace offering. A grin brightened her face and revealed straight, white teeth. She leaned forward and put her hand on his arm. The touch sent fire through his veins. He jerked away as if she had slapped him. Angel didn’t seem to notice the effect her touch had caused because she returned her hand to his arm. "Your wife was beautiful, Reid," she whispered as she patted his arm lightly, "I can see why you love her so much."

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He slammed his hand down on the table. "Stop meddling in my business, woman!" He saw her look of horror and softened. "Eat your dinner before it gets cold." The word, love, sliced at his nerves like a dull razor blade. He had never loved Alice. He loved what he thought she was. The woman he thought he had married was kind and loving. In reality, she was conniving and cold. He shook his head as he took another bite of the casserole. Never would he allow a woman to deceive him in such a way again. To be certain, he would never remarry. "Are you a doctor, Reid? I’ve never seen such expertise in stitches before." "I was." "Was?" "I lost the gift of a steady hand." Angel nodded in his direction as if she understood, then continued eating. They finished their meal in an awkward silence. The minute he emptied his plate, she reached forward and snatched the fork right from his hand. He glanced down. His plate was gone too. With an exasperated sigh, he grabbed the cups on the table and followed her to the basin. "Damn it woman, can’t a man relax a minute after his meal?" She turned and raised an eyebrow in his direction. "I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to rush you. Guess it was just habit. After dinner we used to crowd into the parlor and listen to mamma tell stories. I always hurried to clean up after dinner so I wouldn’t miss the beginning." Reid softened. "Where’s the story then?" Angel looked at him as though he had lost his mind. "What do you mean? I can’t tell a story." "Why not?" She continued washing the dishes. "Do you think you’ll ever return to the profession?" He knew she was changing the subject but couldn’t figure out why. He saw a spattering of freckles over her petite nose and resisted the urge to trace them with the tip of his finger. "I didn’t think I ever could. Now I don’t know." "You’ll return. I know you will." He stared at Angel’s back as she washed the dishes. He often wondered if he would ever return to doctoring and her announcement surprised him. She spoke with conviction. It was at though she had somehow dipped into the future, found what she wanted and thought casually to let him know about it. Damn, she was an intriguing woman. A dripping cup appeared before his eyes. He glanced up and took the cup with a grin, understanding what she wanted without her having to say a word. He took a cloth from the counter and

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dried the dishes as she handed them to him. "Why are you so sure I’ll return?" Angel turned, the dripping plate she held leaving dark spots on her dress. "God gave you a gift, Reid. It’s in your blood, your soul. One day you won’t be able to continue without doing what you love." Wanting to show her his appreciation for the meaningful words, he tried to take the cloth she was using, but she refused to let go. Her soapy fingers grazed over his, provoking a strange feeling of awe to rise in the pit of his stomach. His gaze followed the contours of her face, and he became transfixed as the sapphire of her eyes seemed to burst into a million shards of blue. Attraction to her was inevitable. She was a very beautiful and refreshing woman. Any man would appreciate her. He wanted to kiss her...to wrap her body in his arms and carry her to bed but didn’t dream of taking such a liberty. He didn’t know who she was or even if she already belonged to another. She was a mystery to him and as long as she stayed as such, he wouldn’t touch her. Mustering all the courage he could, Reid pulled away from her. "Lie down, Angel. You still need to get as much rest as possible." *** Knowing a dismissal when she heard it, Angel bit back a retort and crossed the room. She crawled into the bed and pulled the covers up to her neck, knowing she would wrinkle her dress in the process but didn’t care. She was beyond worrying about trivial matters when her heart was at stake. The only thing she could concentrate on was Reid. She curled her fingers around a section of the quilt and stared at the ceiling. The way he looked at her still sent shivers up her spine. The green of his eyes was like an ocean in the storm. Yet, at the same time, a calm tenderness hid in the depths. She had lost herself in those eyes and was paralyzed to move away. She thought he was attractive. Lord help her, but she did. He was exciting and mysterious and smart too. Stop it, Angel! She didn’t have a place in his life. Nor he in hers. She was an outlaw, and if he ever found out about her lifestyle he would condemn her. That much she knew for certain. She squeezed the quilt in her fist until her knuckles turned white. She wanted it to be over. Where was her knight in shining armor that was supposed to sweep down and take her away from her life? Where was the justice? Three weeks after the Walkers reported the thefts, the Sheriff didn't want any part of the case. He said the culprit seemed to have a foul proof way of stealing their gold. At that point, they were starving and had to do something while they investigated on their own. A year later, they still weren't any closer

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to finding out who was sabotaging their success. They needed to find someone who was willing to talk for a decent amount of money. "Angel, why aren’t you asleep?" She glanced up into Reid’s concerned gaze. "Guess I’m just not tired." He pulled a chair next to the bed and straddled it, grinning. "Would you like me to tell you a bedtime story?" "I don’t think it would help me sleep, Reid." He grinned, then grew serious. "You’re upset about the shooting. Do you want to tell me how it happened?" Angel shut her eyes and pressed her lips together to keep from showing her anger. Was he ever going to quit? He knew it was a sensitive subject with her. Why did he keep asking questions when he knew it was going to upset her? She opened her eyes and glared at him. "How many times do I have to tell you? I don’t intend to answer any of your questions." "You owe me an explanation, Angel. I am not going to let it go until you answer my questions. Now, are you going to start talking?" She grunted furiously and dug her nails into her palms. "You are pushin’ it. Stop askin’ questions I can’t and won’t answer." "Won’t?" She gritted her teeth. "Won’t." Angel watched his eyes narrow with suspicion. "What are you hiding?" She glanced away. "Nothin’." Silence stood between them like a brick wall. She couldn’t bear to look at him or risk giving herself away. She had hoped to ease his suspicion, but he was unrelenting. "I’ll find out what you’re hiding, Angel. I don’t take too kindly to people who have something to hide. The truth always comes out, and the longer you lie the worse the consequences are." She forced herself to look into his eyes. "Since I don’t have anything to hide I should be fine." His face went slack. He rose from the bed, crossed the room and took the rifle leaning against the wall of the cabin. "Do you know how to use a Colt?" She laughed. If only he knew. "Yes." Reid pointed to the second drawer in the kitchen area. "There’s a Colt in there I keep for emergencies. If you’re in trouble, use it. I am going to check on my horse." Angel watched Reid leave with a sigh of relief. She always seemed to irritate him. She could tell him he had a nice shirt and he would take that to mean that all his other shirts were horrible. She glanced around the room. Seeing a tiny porcelain trinket box on the bookcase against the far wall, she rose painfully to her feet. Her shoulder was

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sore and ached. She crossed the room to the bookcase and moved several knickknacks to the side. Careful not to knock any of them to the floor, she picked up the trinket box and opened the heart shaped top. Her gaze rested on expensive diamond baubles lying on the velvet lining. She glanced around the room to the elaborate furnishings. Reid had money, but he wasn’t rich. Why did he keep them? She took the baubles out of the box, watched the rainbow colors glitter in the light, then returned them. Looking over her shoulder, she quickly replaced the box and hurried back to the bed. They were Alice’s, and he obviously kept them as a reminder of his sweet wife. The realization sickened her until she wished she had never met Reid Spencer. *** The sound of water splashing against wood awoke Angel from a deep sleep the next morning. She opened her eyes and was aware of someone staring at her. Squinting in the light of the morning sun, she rubbed her eyes and glanced around the room. She wasn’t at home. None of the surroundings were familiar. Her hand immediately swept to her hip, searching for her gun. She groaned as her hand came away empty. She heard Reid chuckle from where he sat at the table and glanced in his direction. He slouched sideways in the chair with his back against the wall and his legs spread out before him. Without taking his eyes off her, he swept a few stray locks out of his face and smiled, his dimples deepening. She decided his smile was contagious because soon she returned his grin full force, unable to look away. The window directly behind Reid sent shards of light through the room and caressed his body like a halo. From his head to his feet, he was drenched in golden light. His green eyes bore into her. They seemed to delve through her to the very core of her soul. She shifted uncomfortably but didn’t take her eyes off him. Reid wore a long-sleeved cotton shirt, the white of the cloth a sharp contrast with his tanned skin. She grew bolder in her observance of him and let her gaze follow the lines of his shirt, then to the creases in his trousers. They were black and tight enough around his thighs to evoke a further study. His muscles bulged as he changed his position in his chair. Her gaze darted up to meet his, a deep blush burning her cheeks. Angel could tell by the expression on his face that he liked the attention she was giving him.

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"Good morning or should I say good afternoon? Did you sleep well?" Generous lips formed the words. She realized she hadn’t noticed how full his lips were before then. She nodded and glanced down. Sometime during the night she had thrown the covers off and had gotten tangled in the gown. Her leg was bare up to her thigh and gave him ample view of her curves. With a strangled cry, she straightened her dress and sent Reid a reproachful look. "Have you been sittin’ there watchin’ me since mornin'?" "Not really." "What time is it?" "Twelve o’clock," he answered as he rose from his chair. She leaned up on her elbows and watched him cross the room. He stopped at the writing desk. Lying over the chair was a white blouse and wool skirt. His fingers ran over the material lightly, then he straightened, picked the dress up and roughly threw it over his arm. When he turned, his lips pressed into a thin line and the wrinkles on his forehead deepened with a scowl. He limped across the room and threw the dress on the end of the bed. "Your wound opened last night and soiled your dress. I thought you might like something clean to wear." She pushed the quilt back and saw that several drops of blood had soaked into the sheets. She bit her lip. The stains probably wouldn't come out of the expensive cloth. "I'm afraid I've ruined your linens. I'm terribly sorry." "Don’t worry your pretty little head about it." Angel touched the wool skirt and cotton blouse lying on the bed before her. She would feel comfortable in these clothes. They would remind her of home unlike the elaborate dresses Reid had given her. They made her think about a life she would never have. "I thought you only had those expensive dresses," Angel commented, wondering if these clothes were Alice’s as well. "I’ve had it stored away in a trunk." "The other dresses were so costly," she said, trying to sound casual without revealing her meddling. "I didn’t pay for them. However, I did pay for the blouse and skirt I just gave you." She glanced into Reid’s eyes and noticed his expression had softened. She pressed her lips together in thought. "Was the other dress your wife’s?" Reid nodded. "Her father gave them to her as a wedding present, but she never wore them." She reached forward and touched the wool material. "It’ll be warm." "Have you been cold?" "There really isn’t much to the other dresses. They're more suited for the

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summer," Angel replied, trying not to sound too surprised at the concern in his voice. "That’s true. I hadn’t realized." She blushed. "I don’t suppose you have any under things." His eyebrows rose. "I’m afraid not. But don’t worry. I won’t think bad of you for going without. Those horrid contraptions are highly overrated." She smiled, holding his gaze. "I quite agree." "Most women would in private. However, to say such a thing in public is a different matter. It would be scandalous," he said, grinning. She glanced down at the dark bloodstains. "I guess I should change but I hate to wear it when I feel so..." "I fixed you a bath. You better hurry. It's getting cold." She blinked in surprise, then glanced around the room. Positioned before the warm fire was a wooden tub. The steam spiraling into the air created a most inviting scene, and Angel could hardly resist. She was about to turn back to Reid and thank him, but the faint scent of roses stopped her. She shook her head in surprise. He had placed the precious oils on his wife's dresser in the water. His thoughtfulness astounded her, and she found herself fumbling on words of appreciation. Finally, she nodded. "Thank you." Reid took his coat from a peg next to the door, his face brightening with a smile. "I'll be back to help you wash your hair in twenty minutes. I would suggest you be out of the water and dressed unless you wouldn't mind a sweeter kind of diversion." Angel's eyes widened. "The hell you will. If you’re expectin’ somethin’ to come of this you might as well get on with your disappointment." Reid shook his head, a soft smile playing with his lips. "I don’t want anything from you that you aren’t willing to give, Angel. You know I would never harm you, don’t you?" She looked into his eyes and saw the tenderness and sincerity in his expression. She nodded. There was nothing to fear in the man. He could have hurt her many times but hadn't. She would trust him. His words played out in her mind. She crossed her arms over her breasts. "You won’t take anythin’ I’m not willing to give? What’s that supposed to mean?" "Just what I said, Angel. Take it whichever way you choose. I’ll be back in twenty minutes. Be dressed or face the consequences." "I can wash my hair by myself," she yelled after him, but he ignored her remark and shut the door. Angel sighed, then hurried to the tub. She ran a finger through the warm water, testing the temperature and decided it was near perfect. Quickly, she stripped out of her dress, kicked it in the corner with a happy squeal and did

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the same with her chemise. It felt like ages since she’d had a bath. She couldn't wait to soak in the perfumed water. She extended her arms for balance and slowly dipped her leg into the water, waiting for her skin to adjust to the heat. Satisfied, she climbed in and lowered herself into the murky depths. She closed her eyes and leaned against the back of the tub, the sanded wood rubbing against her skin. Setting up the bath for her was a nice enough gesture, but she didn't take too kindly to his demands. Washing her hair was an intimate act. No true gentleman would ever suggest such a thing. She giggled and let a handful of water run through her fingers. Reid was no gentleman. His actions had proven as much and she had best remember that. She moved her arm in a circular motion and winced. It was still quite painful and sensitive. No matter how much she wanted to discourage him from touching her, she wouldn't be able to wash her hair without him. She sat forward in the tub and searched the floor for a cake of soap with her hand. Finally, she found it and sat back in the tub, water sloshing to the floor. She glanced over the rim of the tub, saw the expanding puddle and shrugged. Reid would clean it up later. Right now, she didn't have a care in the world. With a contented sigh, she rubbed the rose scented bar over her breasts and created a creamy lather. She tried to ignore the rising questions but failed. Was the soap Alice's as well? Pushing the thought from her mind, Angel soaked in the luke warm water for a few more moments, then stood. She stepped out of the tub and looked for a towel. Knowing she was running out of time before Reid would return, she walked over to the bed and dried off with one of the blankets. She rubbed the soft cloth against her naked skin. She felt so free without the heavy clothing. "Eve, you never should have eaten that apple," she said out loud, giggling. She glanced nervously over her shoulder and slipped into the blouse and skirt Reid left for her. When she tried to fasten the skirt, the stitches in her shoulder pulled and she had to grit her teeth to keep from crying out. "Damn, damn, damn, damn," she muttered under her breath. Reid would have to do it for her. She didn't like the idea of his hands touching her, even though the cloth of her skirt would separate them. She knew she would like his attentions far too much and that was very risky indeed. She held the blouse up to her breasts and clenched the hem between her teeth as she straightened the skirt. The door burst open with a rush of air, startling Angel. She pulled the blouse back to her hips and regarded Reid with a stony expression. His smile told her he had seen everything there was to see in the light of the sun.

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Chapter Five Angel stamped the heal of her kid boot into the wooden-planked floor of the cabin, embarrassment burning her cheeks. "The polite thing to do is to knock before enterin’," she scolded. Reid shut the door without a word, then turned back to her, his dark green eyes slowly taking in her appearance. She glanced down to escape his perusal and groomed her fingernails. The silence was unbearable. She let her hands fall to her sides and met Reid’s gaze. Why didn’t he say something? Anything! He was the one who had invaded her privacy. Why did she suddenly feel like she was the one who had done something wrong? He slipped his buckskin coat off and hung it on a peg next to the door, his back as rigid as a pole. "I gave you enough time for the bath." "That’s an excuse. Do me the courtesy of knockin’ before you enter in the future." He frowned, his eyes as hard as a stone. "Then do me the courtesy of hurrying through your bath. I don’t wish to stay outside in the blasted cold any longer than I have to," he snapped. Angel lowered her gaze and tried to disguise her wounded pride by jamming the hem of her blouse under the waistline of the skirt. He was right. She should have hurried, but she wasn’t about to admit her fault to him. "We really must find you a dress that fits. This will do for the time being though it is a little loose around the waist and might...fall off." She heard the subtle hint in his voice and whirled on him. "I really wish you’d stop makin’ such announcements. It isn’t proper." "I’m not a man who worries about what is and isn’t proper." "That doesn’t surprise me," she snapped back. She had to look away before he saw the surprise register on her face. She hadn’t met many people in Helena who worried about whether an action was proper or not. Then why did she care? She cared because the lessons she had learned as a child in New York were the only things she had left. Sometimes she found it easy to hate her father for abandoning his family. She heard Reid’s boots scrape along the wooden floorboards and turned. He limped across the room, then stopped to massage his leg, a grimace marring his handsome features. She glanced to the pallet carefully laid out next to the hearth. Sleeping on the hardwood floor was obviously

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causing him pain. She met his gaze. "Take my bed tonight. I’ll sleep in the other room or on the pallet." She didn’t have to ask why he didn’t sleep in the other room. It probably reminded him too much of Alice. "It’s not the pallet. It’s the cold weather. You stay in your bed. You’ll heal quicker if you sleep comfortably." She shook her head. "But..." "No buts," he said raising his hand to silence her. "If you don’t sleep in the bed I’ll worry the whole night." "I don’t want to cause you any trouble." "Then sleep in your bed." Angel realized she may have been wrong about him. "I don’t know what to say," she admitted. He smiled, the skin crinkling at the corners of his green eyes. "I’m not as mean as you would like to think I am." She nodded and struggled to button her skirt. She realized she would only hurt her shoulder if she continued and stopped. She took a deep breath and regarded Reid. "Could you...?" "What?" She could tell he wasn’t going to make this easy on her. "Could you fasten the damn thing?" she said, the breath rushing from her lungs. Before she lost her courage, Angel turned her back to him and waited for his touch. As expected, the warmth of his hands wrapped around her waist and pulled her back against his chest. When the pure masculine heat of him engulfed her body, she nearly made a fool of herself by crying out. She stepped forward and took a cleansing breath of air. The close proximity with him was having an unusual effect on her. His hands pulled at the skirt as he struggled with the tiny fastener. His touch was soft and gentle, and she silently wondered, to her horror, if he would be just as gentle with her naked body. Realizing where her mind was taking her, she pulled out of his grasp. "What were you doing while I was bathin’?" "You were careful not to get the bandage wet, weren’t you?" he said, obviously trying to change the subject. She turned and noticed the expression of concern on his face. "I was careful," she lied. The wet bandages scraped against her skin until she wanted to scratch around her wound but knew to do so would reveal her lie. "Are you ready to be pampered?" he asked. She frowned. "I wish you wouldn’t say it like that. You aren't doing me a favor, Reid Spencer. I’m your patient, not your woman of the moment and

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you'd best remember that." He raised an eyebrow at her and grinned. "Woman of the moment?" His hand flew up to rest over his heart. "You mortally wound me. I am doing this as your doctor." Reassured, she let Reid lead her over to the tub. He picked up a wooden pail filled with water, then looked at her apologetically. "I didn’t have enough time to heat the water. It might be a little chilly." She nodded bravely. "That’s fine. What do you need me to do?" "Bend over or you’ll get water all over the floor." He grinned and pointed to the rather large puddle next to the tub. "No need in making it worse." Angel knew by the boyish glint in his gaze that he was teasing her but grumbled anyway. She bent over and waited. The shock of the cold water burst through her body. She gasped and shot back to a standing position, water dripping on her dress. "What the hell are you tryin’ to do?" she sputtered. "Drownin’ me ain’t going to help any." Reid pushed her back down. "I’m only going to tell you this once. Stay down or you’re going to get the bandage wet. This doesn’t have to be painful unless you make it that way. Am I understood?" he said forcefully, though she detected a hint of amusement in his tone. "Pamper me? I knew it was too good to be true," she spat back. The soft rumble of his laughter that followed perplexed her. She wanted to hear it again but couldn’t think of a thing to say to cause such a reaction. Instead, she bit her lip and bent over. In moments, his fingers delved into her hair and softly massaged her scalp. His hands were gentle, sprouting images of him holding a cooing baby with the same tenderness. She decided he would be a good father only if he stopped drinking. She turned her head and saw that Reid was having trouble holding the mass of her hair. "Do you perform such intimate favors for all your patients?" she asked while wiping a stray drop of water from her forehead. "Just the ones who can’t do it for themselves." She placed her hands over her knees for support. Her hair dangled in the bath water, the soapsuds forming a circle around the tresses. Reid’s hands tugged at her hair too roughly and she yelped in pain. "Sorry. You just have so much damn hair. How do you keep it from getting tangled?" "I comb it with my fingers several times a day. You should see it in the mornin’." "I have. It looks like a rat’s nest." "I’m goin’ to pretend I didn’t hear you," she growled.

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Reid chuckled. "I am dumping the other pail of water over your head so be prepared this time. It’ll be just as cold." "Yes, sir!" The cold water ran over her head and splashed into the tub. She endured it with a shudder, then rose up to her full height. "Don’t move. I’m not finished," came the gruff order. Angel sighed and returned to her previous position. "What were you doin’ while I was takin’ a bath?" she asked again. A towel covered her head and Reid started rubbing the water out of her hair with quick snapping motions. She let out a cry of alarm. "Stop! You're doing it wrong. If you continue dryin’ my hair in such a way it’ll take an hour to work through all the tangles. Do it softly and don’t crush the strands with your fingers." "I am not used to doing this for women. Of course there were a few, but..." Angel reached forward and splashed water at him. He jumped back. "Hey! No need in starting a water war." "Coward," she said reproachfully. His hands gently worked the water from her hair with the soft towel. She closed her eyes and sighed. He was good at this. Too good. "I was patching the holes in the roof of the stable." His hands stilled on her head. He patted her back. "Now, I am finished. You can stand up." She groaned with regret and stood, the blood rushing from her head. The room began to spin, then grew dark. She reached out in front of her, not sure whether she was still standing. Strong hands encircled her arms and held her up straight. She looked into Reid's eyes, blinking as the rushing sound in her ears faded to silence. "Are you all right?" The concern in his gaze caused her heart to skip a beat. Had he started to care for her as more than a patient? She pushed the thought from her mind. Impossible dreams. She was notorious for them. "I'm fine," she choked out, feeling sick to her stomach. "Good. I’m going to dump this water out in the snow. Get some rest." She crossed the room and plopped down on the bed. She attempted to comb out the tangles in her hair with her fingers, but her arms felt like lead poles. Returning her hands to her lap, she wondered if she should dare ask Reid to assist her. "Here," Reid said, gesturing for her to move over. He held up a beautiful ivory comb for her inspection. "Let me help you." When she reached forward to take it from him, he frowned and shook his head. "You're too weak. Turn around. I'll sit behind you." A few choice protests stuck in her throat as he slid behind her, his thighs

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grazing hers. She swallowed hard as liquid heat rushed through her body. He was too close...too warm. She breathed deeply, catching the slight scent of pine in the air. This is wrong, she thought to herself, but she couldn't figure out why. His fingers grazed her collarbone, causing her to shiver. She heard him chuckle and couldn't stop the embarrassment from burning her cheeks. His hands swept through her hair and separated it into sections, then worked the comb through each one. His touch...his closeness unnerved her. She couldn't think. She couldn't breathe for fear of revealing her anxiety to him. His hand stilled on her shoulder, each finger seemed to bore into her skin. She held her breath. "All finished." His tone was gruff, with a touch of an emotion she couldn't identify. The bed dipped beneath her as he stood. She stared down at her hands as the fog cleared from her mind. What had Duke and Lee gotten her into? She glanced up and searched the room for Reid. He dipped a wooden bucket into the tub, then tossed the water out the door in a single, fluid motion. He had taken his shirt off, and a fine sheen of sweat glistened on his muscular shoulders and back. Angel tried not to stare, but she couldn't tear her gaze away. She wanted to look at him. She wanted to watch his body move with the effortless grace. Reid must have sensed her observation because he looked up with a hesitant smile. He had pulled his hair back and tied it with a bit of leather to keep it out of his way. A few reddish strands slipped out and clung to his face. His chest was smooth without a single hair and rose and fell with his exertion. Her heartbeat quickened as his smile turned into a devastating grin. "You need rest. Change into the flannel I gave you, then you won’t wrinkle the blouse." She pushed the covers away from her body. "I’ll n-need some privacy," she stammered. He pulled a towel from a drawer on the counter behind him and dried his hands, the muscles rippling in his chest. "Change in the other room. I’ll finish emptying the tub." She stood and grabbed the flannel shirt from the end of the bed. With only a moment's hesitation, she crossed the room and reached out to open the door. In her haste to put distance between them, her hand slipped off the latch. She heard him grunt behind her as her elbow jabbed into his stomach. Angel turned and licked her lips. "I'm sorry...I didn't mean to..." The heat of his gaze stilled her. The muscles worked in his jaw as his gaze darted over her face. She glanced down and saw his fingers clench into fists. A delighted giggle rose up in her throat. He wanted to touch her! He

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obviously was calling upon every bit of strength he had to refrain from doing so. She didn't know why, but she was pleased. A vein over his right temple throbbed to the surface, catching her eye. Without thinking, she reached up and ran the pad of her thumb over it, then slid her hand down to his jaw. His green eyes widened, then turned dark with desire. Something indescribable fluttered in her chest, frightening her. She backed up as if he had burned her. Feeling cornered, she pushed past him and hurried into the room. A sob caught in her throat as she slammed the door. *** Reid shook his head. He had opted for the less revealing blouse and skirt in an effort to make her look less desirable to him. He had enough of temptation and was intent to put a stop to it. She was his patient, and he wasn’t about to let the uncontrollable desire get the best of him. Still, the facts remained. Angel would look ravishing in rags. It wasn’t the clothing it was her. He picked the blouse out because it was plain and unattractive. When he had walked in on her, he immediately realized his mistake. The blouse was tailored for a smaller breasted woman, and the gap between the buttons became his distraction. He could see just a tinge of her rosy skin through the chemise, and it nearly drove him crazy with lust. When he had fastened the back of her dress, he noticed how well it defined her curves. The other dresses had flared at the hips, but this dress swept softly over them. Her hips were voluptuous, child bearing hips. Her hips could ride a man until he slept from exhaustion. Reid tossed the water out the door and swore. Was it purely lust driving him insane for her? Her curves would suit any man, but he knew her body wasn’t the only thing he saw. When he wasn’t thinking about driving himself inside of her, he was admiring her stubborn streak and how she didn’t let him bully her. She was a strong-willed sort. Someone who would overcome anything in their path. He admired that in her. Reid heaved another bucketful of water into the snow, then whirled around and smashed into Angel. He had to think fast and grab her before she fell back into the tub and made a bigger mess. She clung to his shirt, her chest rising and falling as she labored for breath. He raised her chin so she could breathe freely. Her moistened lips quivered as her breathing returned to normal. The urge to kiss her pounded through his veins, and he pushed her away. "Go rest, Angel. I’ll start dinner and wake you when it’s finished." He watched her cross the room and crawl in bed. Satisfied she would be out of his reach, he started filling the buckets with water from the tub and threw

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them out in the snow. Just as he was coming back into the cabin he heard her say, "There's fresh biscuits on the counter and left over stew from last night in the pantry." Reid didn’t know what to say. Angel was staring at him, waiting for a response. Finally, he said, "I’ll heat it up then." "As you wish." Reid shook his head and continued throwing the buckets of water out into the snow. Was it Angel he was desiring or was it just a woman? He couldn’t give himself an honest answer. It had been a long time since he’d had a woman. He didn’t trust himself just yet. *** Duke tied his horse’s reins to the hitching post in front of Lilly’s Parlor, then stepped up to the wooden-planked sidewalk. The soft tinkle of a piano followed by feminine laughter spilled out into the dark street. A night at Lilly’s was exactly what he needed. Strong wine and a willing woman would dull his worries like nothing else. He rapped his knuckles against the wooden door and walked to the end of the sidewalk, looking up into the sky. The stars sparkled like diamonds as if to mock him for everything he couldn’t give his family. Oh how he wished there was another way to provide for them. The door swung open. "Now get the hell outta here!" came a feminine voice. Duke turned to see a woman with sable hair and brightly painted lips push a staggering man out the door. The man fell, then scrambled awkwardly to his feet. "Jest you wait, Sally. I’ll be back!" "Don’t ye be comin’ back or I’ll send the dogs after ye!" The woman seemed to notice him for the first time and offered him a seductive smile. "Are ye comin’ in, stranger?" He nodded and followed her inside. Cigar smoke filled the darkened room and made it nearly impossible to see. He squinted and noticed the brilliant scarlet reds and deep shades of purples decorating the chairs and rugs in the room. A small bar was to his left, the piano to his right, and in the center of the room the men relaxed before they dined. The women wore dresses tailored in expensive silk and had bright jewels sparkling on their necks and hands. They lounged on the furniture, trying to look seductive. A pretty brunette leaned over a balding man, probably in his late forties, and allowed him ample view of her breasts. A blonde on the opposite side of the room brought a drink to a boy who didn’t look much beyond the age of seventeen. The young boy couldn’t keep his eyes off the scarlet feathers lining the neckline of the woman’s dress. Every time she

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moved they shimmered and shook, eliciting a pleased chuckle from the boy. Duke crossed the room and sat at one of the scarred barstools before the bar. Three men sat at a table directly to his left, arguing over the winner of a hand of poker. The piano music stopped with a thud. He turned and saw the piano player stand to stomp over to the table where the men were playing their cards. Within moments, he had settled the argument and returned to his seat at the piano. A lilting, spicy song swept through the room. "What will you have?" The bartender was graying at his temples and had a toothless grin. He wondered silently what had happened to Ben, the previous bartender. But then, what did he care? Either bartender would give him the liquor he sought. He was there for a night of booze and women. Maybe those finer pleasures would help him forget his sister's life was in danger. "Whiskey," he said simply. "Make it a double." A buxom brunette with large blue eyes, reminding him of the last woman he had taken to his bed, sauntered over. She gave him a seductive smile and rubbed up against him. She nodded to the bartender. "I’ll take this one, Adam." The woman returned her attention to Duke and eyed him from head to foot. "Why don’t you find a more comfortable chair and I’ll bring the whiskey over?" She was different than the other women in the parlor. She spoke perfect English. He wondered what the woman had gone through to be in such a place. He nodded and tossed her a coin which more than covered the whiskey. She smiled brightly and winked at the bartender. As Duke walked away he heard her say, "Hurry it up, Adam. I’ve got a live one." He didn’t like the way she called him a ‘live one’, but in this business he probably looked like any other man she took to her bed. When Duke heard Lilly talking to a woman behind him, he had already downed three whiskeys. The brunette was sitting snugly on his lap and giggled as his finger slid down her arm. He turned in his chair as much as possible and raised his glass to Lilly. Lilly’s eyes widened and he saw her look at him twice in shock before she made her way over to his table. He could tell by her expression that she was furious. He saw Lilly glance at the brunette with narrowed eyes. "Away, Jeanette," she said. Jeanette protested. "I’ve waited on him all night!" Lilly pulled a few coins from between her breasts, gave them to the woman, then shooed her away. Her gaze didn’t leave Duke’s for an instant. She sat down next to him. "What are you doin’ here, cowboy?" "I thought I’d come for a visit."

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"You haven’t been here in over six months. Why now?" His eyes narrowed. "You’ve been wantin’ me to come in for a long time. You tellin’ me you don’t want me here?" "I wanted you to come and see me!" He shook his head. "As I recall, the last time we were together we both decided to remain friends." He gulped the last of the whiskey, then set the glass on the table with a resounding thud. He raised his hand and waved for the bartender to bring another. Lilly grabbed his arm and shook her head. "Why are you here? To drown out your problems? You should know by now that drinkin' don't help any." Duke met her affectionate gaze and smiled tenderly. He was well aware of her feelings for him and had tried to dissuade her amorous intentions for over a year. He wished his feelings went deeper than friendship but they didn’t. "I love my sister. I’ve put her in danger and I won’t ever forgive myself." "When are you goin’ up the mountain?" "In a few weeks. I just hope we aren’t too late. What if he’s already found out who she is?" He watched two men stumble through the door. The one with a deep scar over his cheek grinned at Lilly. "Which of you gurls goin’ ta take me ta yer room?" Lilly stood up next to Duke and removed a derringer from between her breasts. She aimed it at the men. "James, you know you and yer kind don’t belong in here. Take yer lousy hide back out to yer horses and get the hell out of my place." Duke shook his head. Why did he always get into messes like this? James was drunk and wouldn’t leave until a fight broke out. He pulled his revolver from its holster and stood up next to Lilly. "Mebe two guns would help convince you." *** "Where the hell is he?" Angel whispered while rubbing her temples to ease the pounding in her head. Frustrated, she dropped her arms back to her sides and aimlessly paced the room. What if he didn't have any intention of returning? What if he was hurt? She paused before the window and swept the curtains aside. The wind pushed the snow off the roof and carried it through the air until the tiny particles disappeared in the shadows. In the distance, a rabbit bounced through the snow and ran behind a pine tree swaying in the wind. There was no sign of Reid. A worried ache twisted in her chest.

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Rubbing her arms to chase away the chill, she turned and glanced around the cabin. The sight of Reid's flannel shirt carelessly thrown over the back of a chair calmed her. His possessions were all around her. She had only to turn her head and there was any number of things that reminded her of Reid. He would return. He wasn't like her father. He would return. She glanced at each of the lamps lighting the room and found the courage to laugh at herself. When the sunlight had dwindled to dark, she discovered extra lamps in the bedroom and lit every one of them. The light blazed through the darkness and alleviated her fears. Where in the devil was Reid? He had promised to return before dark, but the sun had set over two hours ago. If he didn’t return soon, she would have no other choice than to search for him. The thought frightened her. Without her guns, she was vulnerable to whatever dangers lurked in the dark. With a shiver, she clasped her arms to her breasts and hoped Reid would make it back to the cabin unharmed. What if his horse was lame and he was out there in the bitter cold freezing to death? Angel shook her head and pushed the thought from her mind. What would she accomplish by thinking of such things? She would only work herself into a fright and become useless. Her gaze darted to the table. Reid's gun rested on the surface like a shred of hope. It lay loaded and ready for trouble if it warranted. She crossed the room, took a lamp from the counter and opened the door to the pantry. Raising the light to see into the small room, she sighed with relief. The shelves weren't empty. If something had happened to Reid, there was enough food to last her a couple weeks. She slammed the pantry door shut and set the lamp on the counter. A thump on the porch startled her back to reality. She crossed the room and pulled the curtains aside. A shadowed figure ran from the stable and crouched near the door of the cabin. She pushed away from the window and grabbed the gun from the table. Checking the bullets, she raised the gun in front of her and prepared for the worst. The door slowly opened, the hinges creaking in protest. When Reid looked in her direction, she saw his eyes widen in surprise, then narrow with anger. He stepped into the room and raised an eyebrow in her direction. Angel swallowed hard. "How’s it feel to come so close to death and still find yerself standin’?" The hours of worrying had paid its toll and she wondered momentarily how she was still able to stand on her feet. She was near collapsing from sheer exhaustion and didn’t want to give him the satisfaction. Reid slammed the door and regarded her with a scowl. "Put the damn

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gun down, Angel." She shook her head and tightened her grip. His anger only encouraged hers. "Not on your life. You oughta start explainin’ yourself ‘fore I get trigger happy." "There isn’t anything to explain. What the hell is wrong with you?" He glanced around the room. "And why have you lit every damn lamp in the cabin?" "Where have you been?" The accusatory tone of her voice surprised her. Reid shook his head. "I would hate to see you greeting your husband after a hard day of work." "You forget you’re starin' down the barrel of a gun." "I haven’t forgotten! I just don’t see how a little minx like yourself could fire a weapon." The challenge in his voice lit a fire in her belly. She pointed to the door. "Outside. Now." Reid frowned. "What?" She opened the door and searched the land around the cabin. She pointed to a pine tree not more than twenty feet away. "See the branch reachin' out from the others?" He nodded. She raised the gun and shot the branch off. "Now, do you care to repeat your last remark?" His expression changed from confusion to one of incredulous understanding. "You were worried." She eyed him, hesitantly. "I wasn’t." "You were. Admit it." She was about to give him a retort that would pinken his ears, but her voice stuck in her throat. A shiny lock of Reid's hair slid over his forehead. The instinct to reach forward and push it away burned in her chest. How could she deny her feelings for him? She didn't wish him harm. He had saved her life after all. Reid grinned. "I got my answer." "You did not. I simply haven’t answered you," she sputtered. "Your silence was answer enough." He abruptly turned and dipped his hands in the basin on the counter, robbing her of the opportunity to protest. Speechless, she unloaded the gun and set it on the table. The familiar act calmed her enough to stop shaking. "Why weren't you back by dark?" Reid dried his hands on a towel and smiled. "I forgot where I had placed a trap." Angel frowned. "Trap?"

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"Certain hides are worth a good amount of money in Helena. It also passes the time." She turned away and walked to her bed. Slipping beneath the covers, she stared at the ceiling. "Damn you, Reid Spencer," she muttered under her breath.

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Chapter Six Reid didn't have any patience for Angel's childish antics. He shook his head in disgust. "Your behavior doesn't become you. Refrain from being so infantile and people might consider you an adult." "As if you have any right to talk about such things," came her muffled reply. He crossed the room and sat down next to her on the bed. Without a word, she looked away from him with a dismissing sniff and pulled the covers over her head. He stared at the intricate embroidery on the blanket and couldn't believe a grown woman would lower herself to such conduct. Anger curled in his belly. "You are acting like a three year old. I've had enough. Do you hear me? I'll rip the covers from your body to get you to look at me." The covers fell away from her face little by little until she glared at him, her eyes cold and hard. Disturbed by her lack of emotion, he reached forward and pushed a stray lock of auburn hair behind her ear. "I apologize for making you worry. Are you feeling ill?" She turned her head away. Not forcefully to convey anger, but along the lines of uncharacteristic hesitancy. He frowned, perplexed. "Answer my question." Her gaze darted back to his. "You do not own me, Reid Spencer. If I do not wish to answer your silly question, then I don't have to." For a moment, he reveled in the idea of throwing her over his lap and spanking her. "Why must you make this so hard?" She rolled her eyes and pushed him away. "I am fine. Just leave me alone." Reid's gaze touched the delicate skin over her collarbone, then the hollow between her breasts. He resisted the urge to make advances toward her and watched the nipple on her left breast harden and strain against her blouse. Angel gasped, drawing his gaze upward. She looked stunning with her hair splayed out in waves over her pillow. She darted her tongue out across her lips, leaving them moist and glistening. The act was more than arousing. He wanted to kiss her. He wanted to plunge his tongue inside the silky recesses of her mouth and would have no shame in doing so. He reached forward, ran his right hand down the side of her face and into her hair, forcing her to look into his eyes. He saw a flicker of fear pass through

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her gaze and loosened his hold. She had tested his temper far too long, and he wasn’t going to let her get away with it. After he finished with her, she would never test him in such a way again. He licked his lips. "I want you to look at me, Angel. I want you to know who is about to kiss you." *** When Angel realized what he had said, the breath rushed from her lungs. She shook her head, convincing herself that she shouldn’t want his kisses. As a last resort to alleviate his advances, she tried to wiggle out of his grasp. His hands tightened on her arms until she gave up. She could feel his gaze boring into her but couldn't bring herself to return his stare. The coarseness of his finger as it ran along her jaw startled her, but she did not meet his gaze. Finally, the slow rhythmic motion of his finger got the best of her. She raised her head until she stared into the depths of his desire-ridden green eyes. Eyes she could lose herself in forever. His warm breath fanned over her lips as he drew closer. "You don't have permission to kiss me, Reid." His finger slid over her lips and she resisted the urge to kiss it or worse, take it into her mouth. She tried to fight the emotions roaring through her veins at such a caress, but her lip trembled from the attention. He chuckled. "And what if I was to ask, Angel? Would you tell me I could touch you?" "Of course not," she whispered, not sure whether she was telling him the truth. "Precisely the reason I didn’t ask." Reid's face drew closer until she could smell the musky scent of pine lingering on his skin. She closed her eyes, afraid he would kiss her and at the same time, worried he wouldn't. Half of her wanted to feel the warmth of his lips. To taste him. While the other half knew she shouldn't dare. When his lips grazed hers, she jumped. His tongue softly stroked the seam of her lips until she whimpered and arched into the planes of his body. She moaned, wanting more of him though she couldn't fathom how much more there could possibly be. The urgency flooding her soul was maddening. Was this what it was like to be with a man? Or was it just Reid? With a husky groan of wild abandonment, she gave into the desire consuming her body and pulled him on top of her. When his tongue darted between the crease of her lips, she parted them and allowed him entry to the soft confines of her mouth. The satin of his tongue danced around hers until she returned the

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taunting gesture. He moaned and pulled her closer, grinding his hips into hers. Delighted and not quite thinking straight, she wiggled beneath him until his hardness pressed into her inner thigh. Tingles of pleasure burst forth and slid down her abdomen to center between her legs, the heat rolling and churning inside of her. She gasped and lay still, suddenly afraid. Were most men so...well endowed? He was so large and thick. It was a wonder any woman could take him inside of her. Not that she planned to find out, she quickly told herself. Still, she wondered if he would split her in two...if...they did. Reid's lips brushed the side of her neck, and she could no longer find the strength to think. His tongue was hot on her skin as he tasted her, then nipped the underside of her earlobe with his teeth. She arched her hips off the bed, oblivious to any future regret their actions might cause. Cold air rushed over her skin. The bed dipped. Her eyelids snapped open. Confused and shaky, she leaned up on her elbow. Her gaze found Reid standing in the kitchen with his back turned to her. He didn't offer her any comfort. He just stood there, treating her as if she didn't deserve an explanation. He had left her trembling and damp with her want of him, and she hated him for it. She took a deep breath and tried to slow her rapidly beating heart. She rose up on the bed and glared at him. He had used her. She had never felt so humiliated in her life. "We shouldn’t have allowed ourselves to give in to those feelings." She gripped the quilt in her hands, feeling the anger take control. "We? You were the one who kissed me." When he turned, the regret and anguish she saw in his eyes devastated her. "You're right, Angel. I'm sorry. It won't happen again." She lay back in the bed, tears stinging the corners of her eyes. He couldn't even bear to look at her. Had her kisses been so repulsive to him? She pulled the covers up to her neck and found comfort in the warmth. Wiping her tears away with the corner of the quilt, she glanced back to Reid. He hadn't moved. "Goodnight." He took a deep breath and sighed. "Goodnight." Her heart ached and twisted with pain. A pain she could not understand or even begin to analyze. She should be glad he didn't like her kisses. She was an outlaw, and there wasn't a place in her life for any man. Reid Spencer would never want her if he knew what kind of woman she had become. As she watched in utter disbelief, he started to unbutton his shirt, button by tantalizing button. When he tugged at the fabric clinging to his muscular chest and sculpted arms, he seemed completely unaware of her perusal. Finally, the material came loose and floated to the floor like a feather. She blinked twice, trying to see every inch of him. A shiver snaked up and

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down her body. She took a deep breath. Why was he doing this to her? The room plunged into darkness, drawing Angel away from her thoughts. She squinted and watched Reid turn down the oil lamps. The shadows leapt out of the corners of the cabin and seemed to define the planes of his body with chiseled accuracy. Her cheeks burned as she remembered the feel of his muscles beneath her hands. He crossed in front of her bed, his bare feet padding across the hardwood floor. She wondered what he was thinking. Was he thinking of her? Was he remembering the way he had held her? Kissed her? Or didn't he give a damn? Angel watched Reid with the curiosity of a young child. He crossed the room to his pallet, his limp barely noticeable, and lifted the covers back. He whirled on her, a smug smile playing with his lips. She snapped her eyelids closed and bit her lip to keep from laughing. She stayed in that position for what seemed like hours. The muscles in her face ached from forcing her expression to one of indifference and before long she couldn't take the silence any longer. She squinted and searched the room through her lashes. He stood at his pallet, staring at her. Oh! If she had a gun she would shoot him! His obvious intention was to humiliate her. Desperate to convince him that she was sound asleep, she did the only thing possible. She pretended to snore. His chuckle sent ice through her veins. "Good night, Angel." Damn, she hadn't fooled him. She couldn't keep her eyelids shut any longer and slowly opened them. Realizing she had stopped snoring, she continued and hoped he hadn't noticed the revealing pause. He crossed the room and sat down at the table to read a book, a silent dismissal that angered her. She rolled her eyes and turned over, tired of his games. *** Every nerve in his body was like a roaring fire because of that damned kiss. He knew a man's weakness was always his downfall and Angel was certainly his weakness. When she was near, he didn't have even a handful of control. His thoughts returned to their shared kiss as they had every minute for the last half-hour. Her image as she had lain beneath him, her eyes bright with passion and lips full and ripe for a kissing, would brand his memory forever. Had he not taken advantage of the moment and kissed her, he would be a fool. If there was one thing Reid Spencer wasn't, it was a fool. What amused and angered him at the same time was the control he had

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found just in time to tear his lips from hers and walk away. Even now as he sat across the room, hearing the distinct rush of her rapid breath, he found the will to refrain from looking at her. He knew one sight of her wild hair and flushed skin would ruin everything. He recalled the expression of fear on Angel’s face when he had first walked through the door and frowned. Even though she aimed a gun at him, he had been unable to do anything but stare at her. The pain and fear glittering in the sapphire depths still haunted him an hour later. Such pain and wisdom didn't belong in the eyes of a woman let alone someone so young. In that moment, his feelings changed for Angel. He wanted to protect her...to ease her pain. To tell her that everything was going to be all right and mean it. *** Angel squinted against the light streaming through the window above her bed and heard Reid fumbling around in the kitchen. She knew the familiar sounds of his morning agenda by heart. For the last few days he rose before dawn and went hunting, returning only when the last rays of sunlight were only a memory. Their supplies were getting low and hunting was a necessity. With a tired sigh, she turned over and regarded Reid with a lazy yawn. He sat down at the table and didn’t seem to notice that the chair creaked in protest. He clamped his teeth down on the handle of his knife and laced his boots. A lock of his wet hair fell over his brow while his long fingers darted around the laces. She smiled, breathing deeply. She could smell the clean scent of him all the way across the room and wondered if he had bathed while she slept. She cleared her throat. "Will you be huntin’ all day?" He glanced up and scowled. "Lay down and get some rest." She pressed her lips into a fine line and threw the covers back. "I'm comin’ along. I'll dress quickly." "Get back in bed. I don't need your help. You'll only get in the way," he growled impatiently. Angel stepped into her skirt and pulled the waist to its proper position. She stared aghast at Reid. "Let me go along. I know you are worried about the supplies and you know I'm good with a gun. You've seen it yourself. I can help." His stormy gaze raked up her body slowly, little by little. Fire smoldered in the green depths. Did she dare push him?

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He shook his head. "I'm not taking any risks with your life. You could fall through an icy patch out there." Angel tried to control her temper but failed. He was making a lot of excuses, and she knew it. She stomped her foot. "Damn you! Why must you insist on doing this alone? You are so damn thick-headed!" "Someone entrusted your life in my hands. I'm going to do my best to return you in better shape than you arrived in." He pushed his arms into his coat. "Stay here. Am I understood?" She looked down at her toes, poking out from beneath her skirt. She didn't answer to orders. She disliked orders. She disliked Reid's orders. Callused fingers pulled her chin up until she met Reid’s gaze. "Am I understood, Angel? I have to go out there in God-knows-what temperatures to find food for us. I don't want to worry about your safety. Will you give me one day of peace?" She felt her anger melt away with the tender pleading in his eyes. "Your damned pride is going to kill me, Reid Spencer." His face lit up with a soft smile. "On the contrary. My pride is the only thing keeping us alive right now." *** Angel measured out several cups of flour into a tin bowl with an exhausted sigh. She carefully ran her finger along the rim of the mug to push any excess flour back into the bag. Their supplies had dwindled considerably in the last week and every speck of the powder was precious. She raised her hand to push a stray lock behind her ear. Her fingers came away covered with flour. She stomped her foot in frustration. If her dusty hand was any indication, a good amount of flour was now smeared in her hair. Reid would tease her for sure. Her smile faded into a frown. For the last week, Reid hunted every day and came back without a scrap of food. The wildlife wouldn't return to the higher elevations for another week or two, and she wasn't sure they would make it that long. She glanced around the pantry with a tired sigh. She would need to start rationing the supplies to make them last. They had only a bag of beans, coffee, sugar, flour and a couple slabs of meat left. How was she ever going to make them last two weeks? Two weeks. Two weeks would pass, then she'd be back in Helena. The thought caused a horrible taste in her mouth. The pass was starting to thaw, and every day the sunlight shining through the window was warmer. She would leave soon, and the idea sickened her. She didn't want to leave Reid. Once she dug her way beyond his rough

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exterior and hard shell, she saw he was a caring and attentive man. She enjoyed his company far more than she should and would miss him. How could she live a life where she never heard his voice? She couldn't imagine a day when she wouldn't see his face. Angel rested against the shelves of the pantry and threw a few pinches of baking powder into the bowl. She wished she had never met Reid, and she dreaded the day she would have to leave the warm cabin in the mountains. Surely, her memories of him would haunt her until the day she died. Why couldn't she stay with him? Why did she want to? The front door burst open, pulling Angel from her memories. The cold wind swirled into the room and tickled her ankles. Her hand shook and some of the baking powder fell to the pantry floor. Cursing, she bent over and tried to push the precious powder back into the mug. "Angel?" She stood and dumped the baking powder back into the tin. "I’m in here, Reid." He filled the doorway. His face immediately broke into a grin. "Looks to me like you’ve been rather busy." She rolled her eyes. "Just makin’ biscuits." Reid crossed the space between them and extended a finger to swipe across her nose. It came away coated it white. "I couldn’t tell at all." She watched his hand return to her hair and he lightly patted it. A cloud of white dust floated into the air. "I think you missed the bowl." She swatted at him; a giggle catching in her throat as her gaze followed the lines of his body to what he held in his hands. Reid held up two furry rabbits by the feet, his proud grin making her wince. Blood dripped to the floor and made a gruesome puddle on the wood. She suddenly felt nauseous and reached out to grab the top of a barrel for support. "I see you've had an eventful day," she whispered. She forced herself to refrain from looking at the furry creatures. Her breakfast grumbled uneasily in her stomach. For a moment, she thought she wouldn't have to worry about dinner. "I found them in the traps I laid out yesterday. At least we won't have to worry about our supplies for awhile." Angel looked at the salt and pepper fur of the rabbits. A most unwelcome picture of the rabbits bouncing through the grass played through her mind. She couldn't eat them. She just couldn't. "Do you know how to skin rabbits?" he asked. Skin them? She swallowed hard. She never wanted to learn. Slowly, she shook her head. "Then today you will do the honors." Her gaze shot up to Reid's, then down to the rabbits. The air caught in

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her throat, and she found it hard to breathe. She bit her bottom lip to keep it from trembling but wasn't able to conceal her revulsion. She might have to eat them for survival but to skin them would be unbearable. "Reid, I can't." He frowned and brought the rabbits back into view. She cringed and bent to sweep the rest of the spilled baking powder into her hand to avoid the sight. "Why not? You aren't afraid are you?" Angel knew he was playing with her pride. "I'm sorry. There is a hell of a lot I can do but skinnin' a rabbit ain’t one of them." "I want you to try." She glanced up, narrowing her eyes. She could see by the determined set of his jaw that she wasn’t going to win this argument. He was dead set on teaching her to skin the rabbits. She silently wondered if this was his way of testing her strength. She pursed her lips together and slid past him into the main room. Angel set the tin bowl on the counter and turned back to meet his confused expression. "All right. Where--?" Reid pulled a butchering knife out of a drawer. "Out by the stable." *** The blast of chilly air whipped through Angel's buckskin coat as she made her way along the path of shoveled snow. When she misplaced her footing and started to fall, Reid reached forward and set her right. She smiled thankfully and kept her pace until she reached the side of the stable. She reveled in the crisp air blowing on her face. Taking a deep cleansing breath, she glanced at the land surrounding Reid's cabin. The view took her breath away. Mountains capped with snow and dotted with pine trees pierced the sky. When a bird screeched in the distance, she jumped, then giggled at herself. The cabin was higher in the mountains then her previous assumption. Helena was at least an hour's ride away. She turned and examined the exterior of the cabin. Not many were able to build such a large dwelling after the hardships of the War Between the States. She wondered how Reid could have afforded such an extravagant endeavor. She followed him to a log standing upright near the stable and regarded him with interest. "How were you able to afford such a cabin?" His eyes narrowed as he pointed to the east side of his land. "There's a claim up a mile or so." "You mean you found gold on your land?" He ran the knife down the center of the rabbit's body and threw the steaming innards on the ground. "Pay attention to what I'm doing. You need to

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know this." "I can listen and watch at the same time, you know." He stabbed his knife into the log and grinned. "At first I wasn't interested in all the craziness of the gold rush. I came here to practice medicine, but it didn't take long before I wanted to buy a claim and make it rich like all the other miners who came to the Montana Territory." "How long was it before you found gold?" "Alice was three months into the pregnancy. That would make it close to a year. I was pretty lucky though. I’d heard of men hacking at the stone for a year or two before they found the vein of gold in the rocks." The word "pregnancy" sliced through her like a knife. Endless questions tormented her thoughts. Alice had been pregnant? A child who looked like Reid was running around in the world? A child that Alice gave birth to? She tried to smile. "Where is your child?" She saw a thin line of tears well up in his eyes. "It wasn't mine." A shiver raced up Angel's spine. Her mind was reeling with his confession. Alice hadn't been faithful? She didn't dare overstep the bounds of their new friendship and kept her questions to herself. "I'm sorry," she whispered. She wished there were something else she could do to show her sympathy. A gesture of understanding would be feasible, but he would only see it as pity. He shrugged his shoulders and started to peel the fur and skin from the muscle. "You shouldn’t be. It was her decision and she made it." Noticing how stiff Reid's posture became with the difficulty of their discussion, she changed the subject. "Is the mine dry now?" "I lost the drift about a year ago. After that I was just chipping at rock." She smiled to herself and allowed her memories to drift back a year. She would never forget the exuberance that swept the tiny community of Last Chance Gulch with gold fever. Every night someone struck it rich and celebrated in the saloons. The stories made finding a prosperous mine very tempting. After selling practically everything they owned, the Walker family bought a claim. The gold in their mine was enough for a fortune. She still remembered the look on the banker's face when she handed the sack of nuggets over the counter. They were rich! In the following months they bought the luxuries denied them for so long and fixed up the cabin. Then, along with their glorious spending, the thievery began. She glanced back to Reid. He was looking at her expectantly and held the bloody knife out to her. She shook her head. Surely he didn't intend for her to skin the other rabbit. Did he? "What?" she asked, hoping he wouldn’t confirm her fears.

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"Your turn." She swallowed hard and took a deep breath. Rather than looking like a coward, she walked forward and took the knife from his hand. She bit her lip to keep her breakfast at bay and started skinning the rabbit like Reid showed her. When she finished, she quickly set the knife down and hid her quivering hands in the folds of her skirt. He grinned with pride. "I knew you could do it, sweet Angel. I knew you could." She glanced down at the skinned rabbits and didn't find them as horrible to look at. She could probably skin an animal again if she had to. She laughed, feeling tears of happiness prick the corners of her eyes. Her brothers would get a chuckle out of the lessons Reid was teaching her. She could no longer be classified as a rich girl in old clothing. Somewhere along the way, she had become a woman. "Come on, sweet Angel. Let’s go in and roast these up. I’ll slice up our last potato if you slice the onion," he said holding his hand out to her. Angel smiled and entwined her fingers with his. She closed her eyes and appreciated the warmth of his skin as a deeper emotion rumbled in her chest. She stepped forward and savored the comforting support of his arm at her back. "Is something wrong?" he whispered, his breath feathering along her neck. She smiled softly and raced ahead with a childish giggle. "It couldn't be better. It's simply wonderful."

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Chapter Seven Reid hoisted the heavy bucket to the rim of the tub and misjudged the path of the water. He muttered a curse as it splashed to the floor. With a frustrated grunt, he grabbed a towel from the counter and threw it over the puddle. He knew Angel would wake any moment and wanted to have the wooden tub full and ready for her. The courage Angel had exhibited three nights earlier still amazed him. When he’d handed her the knife, he recognized the fear in her eyes and had felt a moment of protectiveness rush through him. A subtle shifting in her gaze had stopped him from snatching the knife back out of her hands. She seemed to conquer her fear right before his very eyes and found the strength to skin the rabbit. The moment she overcame her fear, a spark of respect ignited in Reid. He had admired people for their courage before, but she was different. She was a woman. A woman who he thought was like any other. He was quickly learning that Angel was anything but ordinary. Along with the hefty realization of her character came the knowledge of his feelings for Angel. He liked her. He liked her a lot. Her wit and forked tongue were as desiring to him as the sway of her hips and the honeydew on her lips. Unfortunately, he didn't have much to offer her. He never wanted to marry and no decent woman would settle for anything less. Reid dipped his finger into the bucket of water heating over the fire. Any other man would have flinched at the heat, but his hands had tough calluses on them from years of hard work in the mines. He had grown used to it. He crossed the room and sat next to Angel on the bed. Reaching forward, he swept a stray tendril away from her face and smiled. He never thought there would be another woman after Alice but as he stared down at Angel he wasn’t so sure. She inspired him to be a better man. She made him more than a cripple. A cripple. The thought disturbed him beyond measure. She deserved more than he could ever give her. A woman as beautiful and enchanting as Angel deserved a whole man. He couldn't give her something he didn't possess. He lowered his head into his hands. The blasted woman with the dark eyes and hair the color of midnight would haunt him forever. He had to find her and make her pay for robbing him of so many of life's treasures.

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"Reid?" He turned and saw Angel rub her eyes with a contented smile on her face. She sat up in the bed, her gaze settling on the tub in the center of the room. Grinning, she threw her feet over the side of the bed. "Oh! How do you always know what I need?" Reid didn’t answer. He simply stared at the woman with hair the color of a coppery sunset. He noticed the revealing flannel shirt she wore and swallowed the lump forming in his throat. The material barely concealed her shapely hips and exposed the roundness of her breasts. His gaze darted back to her face to see a deep blush sliding up her neck and over her cheeks. "You aren’t huntin' this mornin’?" she asked. Reid noticed that her hands fluttered over the hem of the flannel shirt, and she kept her gaze firmly planted on her lap. Her obvious agitation caused him to chuckle. As he watched, she rubbed the material with the tips of her fingers. Slowly. Back and forth. The innocent gesture had a more adverse effect on him. The tightness in his pants increased until he wanted to take Angel in his arms and pretend the situation could be different between them. "I’ll be going out later." He saw the look of confusion pass over her face and winced. She had to realize there was a boundary and neither of them could ever pass over it again. He had nothing to offer her. She frowned, her eyes pleading with him. "What have I done?" Reid wanted to scream at the Lord himself to make things different. He wanted to defy the devil and claim a bit of happiness for himself, but he couldn't. Instead, he hated himself. He knew his heart was clouded with revenge and there wasn't a thing he could do about it. He stood and grabbed her arms. "What do you think we’re trying to do here? You’re making my meals like a devoted wife, and I’m doting on you like a foolish husband. Don’t you see? There wasn’t a commitment whispered under the watchful eye of the Lord. Our friends didn’t stand around us whispering congratulations before we ran off to a lavish honeymoon. It’s a fantasy." Reid swept his hand through his hair. The emotions rose inside of him like a midnight tide, and he could barely keep them at bay. When he met her gaze, she looked crushed. "Don't you see? I have nothing to give you. There can’t be anything between us. Ever!" *** Angel sank to the bed, her hand falling limply to her side. She pressed her lips into a thin line and closed her eyes. "You sound like you are tryin’ to convince yourself," she whispered.

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Even as she spoke the words, she knew he was right. The thought brought tears to her eyes. "I’m serious." She looked up and nodded. "You’re right. I can’t fight with you. You’re right." Reid slipped into his coat, then glanced back at her with eyes as cold and hard as a turtle’s back. "Take your bath. I’ll be back after I check on my horse." Just before he slammed the door behind him, she thought she saw tears glittering in his eyes. She shook her head. She was wrong. He had made it quite clear how he felt about her. She stood and walked to the wooden tub, pulling her flannel shirt over her head as her feet padded across the wooden floorboards. She fingered the soft material for a moment before flinging it across the room. The last few days had seemed like heaven, and she was a fool to believe it would remain. Angel stepped into the tub and felt the sting of the hot water on her skin. She ignored it and sat down, the water splashing over the side of the tub. Reid’s change in behavior wasn’t half as surprising as her ability to pretend. In the last few days, she had entirely forgotten about what separated her from a man like Reid Spencer. Or any man for that matter. She reached over the side of the tub and picked up the tiny sliver of rose soap. She rubbed it over her hands with a sigh and leaned back in the tub. They would have to keep their distance until she could return to Helena or she would grow to love him. She knew that for certain. The door burst open and slammed against the wall. With a strangled cry, Angel reached over the side of the tub and snatched a towel from the floor. She pulled it into the tub with her and slipped it around her body. The cold air swept over her skin and made her shiver. Not bothering to turn around, she gritted her teeth and stared at the wall before her. "Reid Spencer you damn well know I’m not finished with my bath. Now get the hell out of here!" The chuckle that met her ears was not Reid’s. She turned and stared into eyes as gray as the winter sky. A broad smile spread on a very handsome face. "Howdy ma'am. Didn’t know anybody was up here with Reid." *** Angel pulled the towel closer to her body and shot the man a look that she was sure could melt metal. "Could you at least have the decency to turn your back?"

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He towered over her, his head just below the frame of the door. His pitch-black hair swept down his back and matched the color of the stubble lining his strong chin. His stance was solid and sure. He was a man to be reckoned with. A man she would hate to anger. Her gaze swept upward until she stared into his eyes. Immediately, she relaxed. In the gray depths she saw years of laughter and kindness. She pulled the towel up to her neck. "You said you know Reid?" He shut the door and turned away from her. "Yes ma'am. Met him when he first came up this way." Angel wondered how she dared carry on a conversation with the man when she was wearing nothing but a towel. The man had his back to her. Did she try to get out of the tub and dress? He might just be waiting for a chance to catch her unaware. Could she be at the mercy of this stranger? She stood up in the tub and looked for her dress. Spotting it on a chair, she leaned over to grab it. "Reid stepped out to check on his horse. Perhaps you could find him out there." "No need, Angel. I’m right here." She froze, her hand digging into the dress on the chair. When she finally found the courage to turn, she didn’t like what she saw in his gaze. The look of desire in his eyes caused a shiver to sweep from her head to her toes. *** Reid saw the shape of Angel’s thighs, the hardness of her nipples, and the sweep of her backbone to the irresistible outline of her hips all in one heart stopping glance. Though she had covered herself with a towel, it did little to hide her curves. Lord, she tempted him and she wasn’t even aware of the fire burning through his veins. He groaned deep in his throat and looked away. A masculine chuckle brought him back to reality. He glanced to his right and raised an eyebrow. His good friend, Ethan, was standing with his back facing Angel, grinning at him. The man’s amusement was obviously at his expense. "Will you leave me with some sort of dignity?" Angel asked. He glanced back to her. She was desperately trying to cover herself, but the towel wasn’t large enough. To cover her backside, the front rode up revealing a patch of downy hair at the center of her thighs. He looked away with a shaky intake of breath. Damn her anyway. She was as innocent as a virgin but as tempting as a seductress. He motioned Ethan to the door. "We better give her the privacy she demands although it is rather tempting to stay." "Harrumph," was Angel's only reply. He heard the water slosh against the sides of the tub and stopped the

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door from closing. He caught a glimpse of sparkling sapphire eyes scrutinizing him between the crack in the door as she muttered something foul under her breath. He slammed the door shut with a chuckle. Ethan's eyes crinkled with amusement. "What are you doin' with a young filly like her? She hardly seems like your type." Reid grinned. "Don't be jumping to conclusions that aren't warranted, my friend." Ethan raised a brow in his direction. "Who is she?" He told his friend as much as he knew, purposely leaving out the attraction he felt for Angel. By the revealing glint in Ethan's eyes, Reid realized his friend already knew as much. "So she’s a spitfire. Knew you would end up with a woman who had a fire lit under her backside." He shook his head. "She’s a little more than even you could handle, Ethan Parker." Ethan grinned and slapped Reid’s arm. "Naw. Even the wildest filly has a heart as soft as gold. You need a gentle touch. Somethin’ you are lackin’." "You’re stepping on dangerous territory." He saw Ethan's gaze drop to inspect his lame leg and gritted his teeth. His friend's gray eyes softened with sympathy. "Causin' you any trouble?" He swore and slammed his fist into the leg in question. "Damn thing is worthless. Have you heard anything about the vixen?" "Heard she and her band hit another stagecoach a couple weeks ago." "Anyone hurt?" "She got herself shot. Won’t you give up this vendetta you have for the woman? Let the authorities deal with her and the gang." "Shot?" Reid frowned, a shiver raising the hairs on his neck. "That’s what I heard. Just before I left to beat the storm I heard that the authorities have been askin’ Dr. Hayes a lot of questions. She couldn’t have lasted long without help." In his mind’s eye, he saw himself working over Angel with painstaking care, his hands stitching her wound to perfection. He shook his head to erase the thought, the memory. He felt as though he had betrayed her for even thinking such a thing. Still, he couldn’t deny that she was peculiarly secretive about what happened to her or that she shot a gun better than most men. He heard the door creek as it opened and turned. His breath caught in his throat. He clenched his teeth and stared at the confusing vision before him. He blinked hard…once, twice. Still, the image remained. Angel’s hair fell in long, wet waves, tangling around her arms. Dark waves without a hint of red in them. The affect the darker color had on her eyes was devastating. Her sapphire gaze now appeared to have a hint of violet in them. The

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transformation sent arrows through his soul. He shook his head. He was losing his mind. He was sure of it now. "Well are the two of you going to stay out there all day and freeze? Or are you going to come inside where it’s warm?" Reid nodded at Angel and followed Ethan inside. His gaze never left her for a single moment. In the year since that fateful day, the vixen’s image had faded. Now as he looked at Angel, the woman’s face was so tangible he wondered if he could reach out and touch it. He shut his eyes and saw the vixen standing before him, the dust swirling around her. She had midnight hair, a carefully concealed mole to the left of her lips and bright violet eyes. His gaze flew to Angel. She had a mole in the same place just to the left of her lips. Reid shook his head and tried to block out the image. He swallowed hard, another event in his memory playing out in his mind. She’d had the same stance as the outlaw the night she shot of a branch outside the cabin. She held her legs apart with her left leg bent slightly at the knee. Even the position of her shoulders imitated the vixen’s. Her shoulder tilted forward and jerked as the gun fired. Why hadn’t he realized this before? Angel stood before him with a smile on her lips. As she walked to the basin, she rocked her hips with each step. He wondered bitterly if it was for his benefit. A sinking sense of dread made him ill. The vixen was standing in his kitchen making his dinner like nothing had happened. A niggling sense of doubt made him hesitate. If his mind was only playing tricks on him, she wouldn’t ever forgive him for his accusations. He could lose her forever. On the other hand, if she was Jade Sinclair, then he would do the right thing. He would take her to Helena and turn her into the authorities. Reid limped across the room and stood behind Angel. He was grateful that she had her back turned toward him. He didn't want her to see the pain in his eyes. Oh Lord, he hoped he was wrong. He cleared his throat and concentrated on keeping the words even and without conviction. "I think it's about time you tell me how you were shot, Angel." *** Angel couldn’t believe Reid had the audacity to ask her about the shooting when he knew what her reaction would be. She turned, ready to tell him to cook his own dinner, but the expression on his face stopped her before she uttered a word. Her hand rose of its own accord and rested over her heart. The doubt and disbelief in his eyes chilled her blood. He knew. Somehow he

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knew. She pressed her lips together, hoping she was wrong. "We’ve gone through this before. I can’t tell you how I was shot." "Ethan brought news from the city. He said Jade Sinclair robbed another stagecoach just before the storm hit," he replied, his voice stilted and rough. He eyed her, obviously waiting for a confession she wasn’t about to give. She forced her face to remain expressionless. "And?" "You must have heard of her." "I have." Her gaze remained on Reid though she desperately wanted to look around the room for a safe place to hide. If he did know her true identity, the calm expression on his face was only a mask for the burning anger hidden within. "She was shot during the robbery and the sheriff is asking questions of the doctor in town." "Is that so?" "Did I happen to mention that I’ve met up with this Jade Sinclair myself?" Reid’s words shot through Angel like lightning. Her hand shook and she dropped her spoon in the fireplace. When she tried to retrieve it, she burned her fingers on the coals and cried out in pain. If she didn’t take a deep breath and calm herself, her actions would give her away. Angel sucked the sting out of her fingers. Closing her eyes, she prayed everything would turn out for the best. She searched her memory for Reid but came up with nothing. Was he trying to get her to slip and tell the truth about her identity? She caught the scent of pine in the air and knew he stood behind her. "Everything you are resembles her, Angel. Are you Jade Sinclair?" Ethan groaned. "Reid, yer makin’ a big mistake here." Callused hands gripped her arms and whirled her around until she was staring into Reid’s eyes. His expression exuded a hate and anger so deep she could barely see the disbelief and pain in the depths of his gaze. She knew what he wanted. He wanted her to deny the accusations. With an alarmed cry, she pulled out of his grip. She squeezed her eyes shut and tried to endure the pain pounding through her heart. She gasped, her eyes snapping open. She had fallen in love with him "Are you denying it?" She looked into his eyes and wanted to scream the denial. She could no longer bear the look in his eyes, and she would do anything to wipe the tormented expression away. How could she hold onto the last precious days they had together and still tell him the truth? When his face went slack with disbelief, she knew he saw the answer in

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her eyes. Where there might have been doubt, there was now only certainty. He pushed her away so forcefully she started to fall. He didn’t reach out to catch her. He didn’t comfort her and wipe away her tears. Instead, he looked at her with a hurt so evident that Angel had to grit her teeth to keep from bursting into tears. "You don’t understand," she whispered numbly, her voice catching on the sobs in her throat. "Why?" he asked. He had whispered the word softly. Yet, she heard it as if he had screamed it from the tallest mountain. "Even if I tried to explain it to you, you wouldn’t be listenin’. You are too busy hatin’ me right now." She detected tears in the corner of his eyes but didn’t dare go to him. She couldn’t bear the rejection he was sure to give. The anger passed over his face like a wave. "Don’t recognize me with the beard? Look in my eyes. Surely you will recognize something." The kindest eyes she had ever seen. The memory came to her like a flash of recognition. The puzzle pieces she had tried to put together since the moment she met Reid eased into place. She never knew his name. Only that he had the kindest green eyes she had ever seen. When he had charged her during the robbery, her first reaction to the possible danger had been to shoot her gun. Her surprise turned to devastation as the smoke cleared. Two men were lying wounded on the ground, and the man with the green eyes wasn't conscious. Grimly, Duke had explained that a passenger was about to shoot her, but the man with the green eyes had raced forward to push her out of the way. And she had shot him. The guilt that came with that knowledge had haunted her every night for months after the incident. Truth be told, it haunted her still. She blinked, feeling dazed. "Why did you rescue me all those years ago?" "I don’t really know." "There must have been somethin’." He laughed. "I’ve waited two years to tell you about the hell you put me through and now that you’re standing before me, I have nothing to say." Something in Angel broke, and she slammed her hand against the counter. "I know you hate me! If you have somethin’ to say, then just say it. Don’t continue standin’ there with those God-awful eyes that are about to tear me apart." Her voice broke at the end of the sentence, but she held her ground. She refused to let the tears betray her strength. Reid’s gaze narrowed. "What do you want from me? Are you wanting to know how you ruined my life? Do you want the dirty details? Is that it?" "Yes!" "I wouldn’t give you the satisfaction."

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"You know nothin’ of my reasons or the life I’ve had to lead. You have no right to judge me." "I consider the fact that you crippled me enough of a reason! I’m a damned cripple, Angel, and you are the one who ruined my life." She shook her head, barely seeing through her tears. "I may have fired the gun, but you’re the one who decided how things went later. You may have a lame leg but the only one who's thinkin’ you’re half a man is you." She walked to the door and took her coat from the peg on the wall. "I’ll stay in the stable until you’ve calmed down enough to talk about this rationally." "You aren’t going anywhere, Sweet Angel." Ethan stepped forward. "Leave her be, Reid. Where do you think she’s goin’ to go? She will freeze to death if she wanders off too far." Ethan handed a blanket to Angel, and she took it with a grateful nod. He squeezed her hand. "Don’t be foolish, missy. You know you wouldn’t last long out there." She paused and slowly glanced back at Reid. He was sitting at the table staring out the window, his gaze devoid of emotion. She bit her lip and stepped out into the winter night, closing the door behind her.

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Chapter Eight "What are you plannin’ to do about the girl?" Reid slammed his fist into the table, leaving a dent in the hard wood. He growled as the pain knifed from his knuckles to his wrist, but he reveled in the discomfort. It was nothing compared to the turmoil raging inside of him. The truth had come out, and his sweet angel had turned into not a creature of heaven but a serpent of hell. He was foolish. No, senseless, for he knew firsthand about the wicked ways of women and the effect they had on a man. When he first saw Angel, he ignored every thought...every realization. She was just as wicked as any of the women he knew. He thought of the immediate attraction he had felt toward her and snarled in disgust. She was an outlaw and had probably met up with all kinds of men. He didn’t doubt countless men had lain between her thighs. She was beautiful, and he was certain he wasn’t the first to notice. He wouldn't be the last either. He swiped at the blood on his knuckles. The vixen would no longer have a hold on him. Nor would any other woman. He limped across the room and took the pot of stew from the fire. He heard the sizzle of the metal against his skin but ignored the pain and dipped the stew into a tin bowl. "I have nothing planned." Ethan leaned against the far wall, his brows knitted with worry. "You’re goin’ to leave her out in the cold?" Reid tasted the stew, his mouth watering. Ethan was his friend, but he sensed the man sympathized with the woman. She didn’t deserve his sympathy, or anyone else’s. "Perhaps." "She’ll freeze out there. She’s got nothin’ but yer horse to keep her warm." "Take her some blankets if you must." He saw anger burst behind Ethan’s eyes. His friend crossed the room and shoved him into the wall, his eyes dangerous in their intensity. "I see you’ve gone and let her win." He shoved Ethan’s arm away and quelled the instincts to tear the man to shreds. "What the hell are you talking about?" "You’ve finally gone and become what Alice tried so hard to make of you." His fist flew out, meeting Ethan square on the jaw. Ethan’s head jerked back, and he staggered a few steps away. When he regained his stance, he

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wiped a trickle of blood from his lip and regarded Reid with eyes as cold as a frozen river. His knuckle throbbed, but he didn’t allow himself the luxury of rubbing the torn skin. "I’d be careful, Ethan. I don’t take kindly to meddling." Ethan’s eyebrows rose. "Because yer my friend and I know how much yer hurtin' right now, I'll forgive you. But if you ever do that again we will not be friends." Troubled, Reid crossed the room and searched through the cabinets. Ethan was his only friend and he didn’t want to pick a fight. He turned and faced him. "Ethan, I..." His friend held up his hand. "Yer in trouble, Reid. The filly out there is goin’ to teach you something’ ain’t nobody ever taught you before." "Words from a wise man," He said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. His brain throbbed a painful rhythm through his head. He rubbed his temples and searched in the cupboards for a bottle of whiskey. Noticing the hint of admiration in Ethan’s voice, he decided to call him on it. "She got to you. What was it? The tears or her curves? Can’t say I blame you." "Yer a fool. What will you do? The pity in Ethan’s eyes angered Reid. He searched the cupboard one last time, then slammed his fist into the counter. "She hid my whiskey." "It’s time someone did." Reid narrowed his eyes. "I’m going to see that justice is served." "What’s that supposed to mean?" Neither of them noticed that the door leading outside opened or that sapphire eyes watched their every move. "I’ll take her to the Sheriff. He’ll know what to do with her." "You know what they did to the outlaws in ‘65. How could you do this knowing…" Reid pressed his lips together, remembering the famous outlaw hangings in Virginia City. "I do." Ethan looked at him, his eyes wide with surprise. "They’ll hang her." A slight pain assaulted Reid, but he wasn’t about to admit how hard Ethan’s words had struck a cord in him. He had to do what was right. Justice must be served. Ethan glanced to the door, his gaze turning soft and tender. Reid followed his friend’s gaze. Angel stood behind him, tears glittering in the corner of her eyes. She didn't have to say a word. The desperation in her expression and the trembling of her lips said everything. Even now, she tried to manipulate him with her beauty and tears. He looked away and clucked his tongue in disgust. He watched Ethan cross the room to take the rifle from above the door and frowned. His friend handed it to him. "She’s here. Why not get rid of her right now?"

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*** Angel felt the room spin and had to grab the writing desk for support. She tried to take a deep breath, but it caught in her lungs and allowed no relief. Ethan’s words repeated in her mind over and over again until she thought her head would burst. In only a moment's time, they had decided her fate. From somewhere deep inside, she found the strength to face Reid. She searched his eyes for something other than hatred. She expected Ethan to condemn her purely on her crimes alone, but Reid knew her. He knew Angel Walker not Jade Sinclair. No one knew her like he did. No one. She crossed the room and touched his arm. He jerked away, the anger bright in his eyes. She shook her head. "Don’t do this, Reid." He pushed the rifle Ethan held out of his way. "I think you’ve lost your mind." "Yer tossing her off to the Sheriff to hang. Why not do it right here? I’ll help bury her in the snow to keep the smell away." She gasped, her hand rising to touch her throat. She glared at Ethan until he met her gaze. When he winked conspiratorially at her, she blinked in disbelief. "Ethan." The sound of Reid’s voice was low and filled with warning. "What the hell do you want from me?" "I'm asking’ that you hear her out. Don't let your anger get the best of you." Ethan leveled the rifle at Reid's heart. "If you can't see fit to do that, then I'm taking her with me. I will not have the blood of this woman on my hands." Her heart pounded in her ears as she watched the tense exchange between the two men. It was a battle of wills that she didn't dare interrupt. She swallowed hard and watched Reid's expression change to one of icy rage. Good Lord, she hoped Ethan hadn't made things worse. "When the time is right, I'll hear what she has to say. Until then, she can stay in the cabin," Reid bit out. Ethan lowered the rifle. "That's a start." When Reid looked at her, the muscles in his jaw flexed dangerously. "Get out of my sight before I change my mind." Tears welled up in her eyes until she couldn't see. Not wishing to reveal her weakness, she bolted outside and escaped to the stable. *** "I wonder if you have a name," Angel said gently to Reid's horse. Her hand shook as she pulled her fingers through the mare's mane. The

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stable was freezing and the quilted blanket Ethan gave her wasn't thick enough to keep the chill away. She pulled the blanket tight against her body and shivered. She would endure the cold until she froze to death to avoid seeing Reid. The temptation of a warm bed would be the only thing to draw her back inside the cabin. She found a brush hanging on a nail next to the door and started brushing down the horse. She had to enjoy every moment of her life because she might not have much time left. What if Reid didn't listen to her? What if they hung her? When the brush tangled in the horse's mane, it tossed its head and shied away. She made soft cooing noises in its ear until it trusted her again. The door of the stable squeaked, causing a chill of apprehension to sweep down her spine. She glanced to the door and saw Ethan smile hesitantly in her direction. His gaze darted from the brush to her face, a surprised smile playing with his lips. He held up a bowl with one hand and a blanket with the other. "Hungry? Cold?" "Yes," Angel said, smiling through the tears that sprang to the corners of her eyes. "You have no reason to be kind to me, yet you are. Thank you." Ethan pulled up a chair and motioned for her to sit. When she did, he wrapped another blanket around her. "How long are you going to hide out here?" he asked as he handed her the bowl of stew. She ate several spoonfuls and frowned. "As long as I have to." "Nothin’ will be settled between you an’ Reid if you avoid each other. I’m leaving tonight. You have to talk to him." Angel took another bite, chewed and swallowed. "Perhaps, but if it's the same to you, I'll stay out here for a bit." He nodded. "Suit yourself." She rested the bowl in her lap. "Why did you fight for me in there? You know nothin' about me." He shrugged his shoulders and smiled. His teeth were surprisingly straight and made his smile all the more handsome. "Reid is actin’ on anger only. He’ll regret what he’s done to you later." She laughed, her tone filling with bitterness. "I doubt that. He hates me." He stared into her gaze with a raised eyebrow. "Somethin’ tells me there’s more to yer story." The kindness in his eyes weakened her resolve. "I just wish your friend in there would listen to it." He tossed the length of his coal-black hair behind him and sighed. "Tell me, Angel. Have you ever seen a wild horse runnin' free?" "Of course." She lived in Montana Territory for over two years after all.

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"Have you ever seen one tamed?" "Yes. What are you gettin’ at?" Ethan jumped to his feet and pulled a sugar cube from his shirt pocket. He held his hand out to Reid's horse and let it lap up the sweet morsel. "Thet’s right, girl." He patted the horse’s neck and turned back to Angel. "You know you have to be gentle." She nodded. "And slow." "Angel, both you and Reid are as wild as any two horses I’ve seen. If yer gentle and take ‘er slow you’ll both grow to understand each other." "He won't listen to me." Ethan smiled, a great depth of knowledge darkening his gaze. "Oh, he’s listenin’. He’s not likin’ what he’s hearin’, but he’s listenin’. You’ve gotten more through to that man than yer thinkin’ you have." "Why are you doing this? You just heard the horrible things Reid said about me. Why are you being so kind?" Pain trickled into Ethan’s gaze. "I thought I wasn’t good enough for a woman once, and I lost her. I'd give anything to have her again. I know what yer feelin'. The pain is eatin’ you alive, ain’t it?" She was so moved by the pain in Ethan's eyes that she could only nod. Her heart pounded in her chest. "I think I understand what I need to do." *** Angel perched on the side of the bed and clutched a pillow to her chest. She heard Reid fumbling around in the adjoining bedroom and waited for him to notice her presence. She had to face him sooner or later and might as well get it over with. She glanced around the room with a sigh. Her gaze darted over the table, then to the writing desk and finally settled on the fireplace. She didn’t feel welcome anymore. She felt like an intruder. She watched Reid hobble from the pantry into the room and bit her lip. When he noticed her gaze had dropped to his leg, his face darkened into a frown. She looked away to hide her shame. When he slammed a slab of meat on the counter, she forced herself to meet his gaze as he closed the distance between them. "It won’t go away. No matter how much you wish it." She took a shaky breath and looked into Reid’s eyes, her gaze wavering. She squeezed the pillow in her lap and fought the instant anger rising to the surface. "You think this is easy for me, don’t you? Well it’s not." "Look at it. Get used to it. You’ll have to look at it every day for the next week or two," he snarled. Angel stood up and looked into his eyes, feeling the tears well up in her

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own. "Why the hell did you save me, Reid Spencer? Why the hell did you save me when all yer goin’ to do is kill me?" "You don’t know the Sheriff will choose to hang you," he said as he walked back to the counter. "You don't know that he won't." He glared at her, then continued working with the meat. "Every one of those hateful glances kills somethin' inside of me," she admitted. He turned and raised an eyebrow at her. She thought she saw a glimpse of tenderness in his gaze. The emotion immediately faded from his eyes. She looked away and refused to give into the pain tightening in her chest. "Damn useless thing." She looked up and watched Reid massage his bad leg. His gaze locked with hers. She swallowed hard. "Isn’t there anythin’ you can do to ease the pain?" When Reid looked at her, his eyes were alive with anger. "Not a thing. They say it's permanent because too many muscles were damaged from the infection. Do you find satisfaction in my confession?" Angel swallowed the lump in her throat. "To tell you how much it affects me would give you the satisfaction." "Then why? Are you wanting me to listen to your side of the story?" "Is that too much to ask?" "Then tell me," he said, gritting the words out as if they were the hardest thing he ever had to say. She threw her hands up in the air, her emotions getting the best of her. "Do you want a grand story of starvation and hardship? Is that it? Would it make you feel any better?" Tears crept into the corner of her eyes. "Or should I speak of my mother and tell you we had to steal back our own gold to save her life? Would you even believe me?" The room started to spin. Angel grabbed the back of the chair and struggled for breath. She heard Reid clap his hands and cringed. "Very nice indeed. Where did you learn to use such drama? Was it at the theater?" Angel stood up straight and wiped her hand over her forehead. She pulled it away drenched with perspiration. She grabbed her stomach and glanced at Reid, her breathing ragged. "You b-bastard." Moments later, she sensed his presence at her side and glanced up. He gazed into her eyes with concern. "Is something wrong?" She saw his hand extend to touch her. She pulled away. "Don’t t-touch m-me." ***

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Reid watched Angel struggle with her balance as she made her way to the bed, at war with himself. Every time he started to reach out to help her, his hate and anger stopped him. Finally, he couldn’t stand it anymore and jerked forward to catch her. She threw her head back and fell into his arms like a crudely made rag doll. When he realized she hadn’t simply lost her footing, he lifted her into his arms and rushed her to the bed. Gently, he set her on top of the comforters. "Damn woman. What the hell are you trying to prove?" He pressed his palm to her forehead. The heat emanating from her skin caught him off guard. He tore her blouse from her body and peeled the bandages from her wound. The material came loose and fell away. The sight of the wound caused Reid’s blood to run cold. Bright red streaks ran from her shoulder to just above her breasts. He gritted his teeth. The wound had become infected. Reid crossed the room and searched through the cupboards. He dropped a teaspoon of Echinacea into a cup and looked for the other herbs. He threw in the last of his Golden Seal and added Chamomile to help her sleep. He hoped the tea would do its work and help her sweat out the toxins. He poured hot water into the mixture and joined Angel on the bed. "Angel, wake up." She opened her eyes and blinked at him for a few moments. She started to sit up, but Reid pushed her back against the bed. "Don’t get up. Just rest." "What h-happened?" He saw the uncertainty in her gaze and winced. "You fainted. Did you get the wound wet?" She nodded. "I tried to wipe up the water, but it was too late." "Why didn’t you tell me it started to get infected? You must have known." She looked at him, eyes wide. "I didn’t think you’d care. After all, you weren’t willin’ to hear anythin’ I had to say." He helped her into a siting position and held the cup to her lips. "I would always listen to a patient who needed care." Her lips pressed into a thin line. "Not when the patient is Jade Sinclair." Reid wanted to deny her words, but his tongue wouldn't obey him. He couldn't disagree with her accusations. Her words rang true to the very emotions churning inside of him. He shook his head and frowned. What had become of him? Years ago he took an oath to help anyone in need but, without a second thought, he would have sent Jade Sinclair on her way...had he known. He no longer deserved to include his name in the profession. The revenge curling through his veins had seen to that. She drained the cup and laid back in the bed. She looked into his eyes

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with mistrust. "Why are you doin’ this? It would be a lot easier for you if you would just let me die." He set the cup on the nightstand. He despised everything she stood for, but he wasn’t the judge and jury. She would have a fair trial in Helena, then he would wash his hands of her. "Despite what you think, I am not heartless." "Hate is eatin' you alive, Reid. Don’t you think it’s time you started livin' your life? He narrowed his eyes and chose to disregard her words. "Go to sleep. You need the rest." *** Reid raised his head from the surface of the table and blinked several times at the book lying open next to him. He rubbed his eyes and decided he must have fallen asleep sometime during the night. When he’d finally put the book down to rest his eyes, the sun was a sliver on the horizon. He straightened and groaned as the muscles in his back rebelled. Spending the entire night in the chair was something he would quickly regret. He glanced over to Angel and damned himself for falling asleep. She was deathly pale, her hair stuck to her scalp with perspiration, and her breathing came out in ragged breaths. Something had gone wrong during the night and while he was sleeping, she was fighting for her life. He bolted up from his chair and sent it clattering to the floor in his haste to get to her side. He sat next to her and pushed her hair out of her face. "Angel. Wake up," he said, gently shaking her. When she didn’t respond, he touched the contours of her face. A fever was still raging through her body. The tea he’d made with the last of his herbs hadn't helped one bit. He had a dying woman in his bed and couldn't do a thing to save her. He cried out in frustration. Desperate, he leaned forward and grabbed her arms. "Damn it, Angel. Wake up." Again, she didn’t respond. He reached forward and pinched her hand. She didn’t even flinch from the pain. Then, as if God had made the decision to take her, she stopped breathing. Reid shot to his feet. Numb to do anything, he stared down at the woman who had caused him so much pain. No matter what she had done, he couldn’t let her die. She had to live. "Angel. Breathe!" He ripped her chemise open to her waist to give her room to breathe. Still, her chest remained unmoving. He checked her pulse. Nothing. "Damn it, Angel. Don’t die. Fight. You’re not a coward. Wake up and fight!" He let out a tormented cry and banged his fist against her chest. He

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didn’t know why he wanted her to live, only that he did. She couldn’t die. She couldn’t leave him alone. He checked her pulse and felt a faint throb against his finger. Not even a moment later, she gasped and took a deep breath.

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Chapter Nine When Angel opened her eyes, she thought Reid looked as though hell had come and gone in the span of a second. He had dark circles under his eyes, and his hair was wild and tangled. She tried to rise up, but her arms gave out and she fell back against the pillows. "Reid?" she asked, barely able to call for him. His face loomed over hers. The tenderness and concern in his eyes as his gaze swept over her face astounded her. For a moment she thought she had dreamed the events of the previous night. Then, reality played a cruel trick on her. Reid's expression hardened, his gaze dark and foreboding. She closed her eyes and tried to savor the concern in Reid's expression only moments before. He might never look at her in such a way again. "You took ill. How are you feeling?" She opened her eyes and shuddered. "I feel like I fell off a cliff." "After what you just went through you should." Angel frowned and tried to sit up. Exhaustion set in and she fell back against the pillows. "What happened?" "You stopped breathing." Her gaze met Reid’s. How she longed to see the caring and tenderness in his eyes again. If only she could get one more taste of it, then she could live the rest of her life a happy woman. "What are you sayin’?" "When I woke up you were having trouble breathing. Then, your heart stopped beating." She saw a glimmer of the panic he must have felt in his eyes and shook her head in confusion. He wasn't making sense. She frowned. "What caused me to start breathin' again?" "I don’t know. I couldn’t exactly let you die. I did not do it by choice." "I didn’t think that you did," she lied. She watched Reid’s gaze fall to rest on her chest. A groan started in the depths of his throat and he looked away. "For God’s sake, cover yourself, woman." She followed his gaze and saw her torn chemise. The tops of her breasts were bare for Reid’s perusal. She gasped and tried to cover herself. "Good Lord." He crossed the room and took another bottle of whiskey from the counter. Twisting the cork off, he then took a drink. "I found where you hid

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them. If you ever get a notion to hide something from me again you should find a place I'm not likely to search. The pantry, I would like to remind you, is not one of them." She glared at him. She had left them in the pantry because he nearly caught her disposing of the liquor. "You never answered my question." His eyebrow rose. "What would you like to hear?" Angel pushed a stray lock of auburn hair from her eyes. "The truth would do." "The truth?" Reid laughed, his gaze hard and cruel. "Your life is based on lies. How would you know anything about truth?" She bit her lip as the anger coursed through her. "You my noble giant wouldn’t know love even if God handed it to you on a silver platter. I suppose we both have weaknesses." He downed the rest of the bottle in a succession of gulps, then regarded her. "You could be right, Princess." She watched Reid throw on his buckskin coat and leave with a sharp slam of the door. She didn’t know how much longer she could have shown such a brave front. Her arm pulsed with pain and she had to bite her lip to keep from moaning. She leaned back in the bed and stared at the ceiling, waiting for sleep. Nothing seemed to make sense to her. When the pass melted, he planned to take her to the Sheriff and they both knew she would hang for her crimes. His sharp and cutting words hurt more than she thought possible and they certainly didn’t match his actions. Why would he care whether she died from infection? Why the concern for her welfare? *** The gun exploded. A puff of gunpowder shot into the air. Angel felt the bullet pierce her skin and dive for her heart. Clutching her chest to ease the pain, she tried to remain standing. Her legs started to buckle. Please not now, Lord. Not now, her mind screamed. Helplessly, she fell back into the snow. Reid’s image appeared above her. His breath burst from his mouth in a white cloud as his eyes delved into her soul. "You should have told me, Sweet Angel. You should have told me." She tried to tell him she was sorry, but her tongue stuck to the roof of her mouth. Her chest tightened with the knowledge that the words would never leave her lips. "You should have told me." Angel shot up in the bed and glanced around the room, her chest heaving with the exertion. She pressed her hand to her sweaty forehead and

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tried to calm down. The dream had seemed so real. Reid had seemed so real. She threw the covers from her body and closed her eyes as the cold air swept over her. Turning her head toward the window, she let the rays shining across her bed warm her face. She watched the sun sparkle through the dripping icicles hanging over the roof of the cabin and sighed. The pass would be safe for travel in a few days, and then he would take her to Helena. She shivered. Helena meant her death. She wasn't ready to die. She had barely begun to live her life. Damn it! She wasn't going to let him do this to her! He thought it would be easy to dump her off on the Sheriff and be done with her. She wouldn't give in. She couldn't. Her gaze darted around the room, then settled on the pantry door. She would leave. It was the only way. But when? Reid couldn't suspect her escape, or she wouldn't get far before he found her. She needed to make a plan. One that wouldn't allow for mistakes. Angel crossed the room and slipped into her buckskin coat. Opening the door, she cringed and waited for the blast of cold air. It never came. The sun warmed her face as the wind swirled around her body. Spring was well on its way. She stepped out to the porch and delighted in the sound of her boots crunching in the wet snow. The snow-covered landscape took her breath away. The blanket of white powder lining the boughs of the trees glittered like a million diamonds in the sun. She glanced at the surrounding landscape, the breath rushing from her lungs. God certainly showed his beauty in so many ways. In the distance, a bird landed softly on a tree stump and picked at a loose piece of wood. Amid the silence that followed, the sound of an ax piercing wood resonated through the clearing. She hurried down the steps and followed the noise, knowing she would find Reid at its source. Angel turned the corner of the stable just as the sound faded to absolute quiet. Reid stood next to a large pile of split wood, breathing heavily. As she watched, he ran the back of his hand over his brow with a nod of satisfaction. He muttered something to himself, then threw a chunk of wood on his pile. As he stood, his penetrating gaze met hers, his eyes widening in surprise. "What are you doing out here?" "I came lookin' for you." His dark hair rose with the wind, then rested back on his shoulders. "Why?" "I thought I’d make dinner. You must be hungry." Reid shook his head. "You should rest. I'll take care of dinner." She looked away to conceal her surprise. What game was he playing now? For an instant, she thought he actually cared for her well being.

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"There's a pot of soup on the counter. I'll make something else later." "So you can take me to my hanging? Why waste the food?" Biting her tongue, she looked down at her hands. She didn't want to antagonize him. She had to escape now or lose the chance. That was her only motive in speaking with him. Wasn't it? She watched him lean over to pick up a bottle in the snow. He took a swig and stared at her with haunted eyes. "Just eat the soup, Angel." He raised the bottle to her, then took a long drink. She kept her mouth shut and dug the toe of her boot into the snow. When she looked up, he had continued chopping the wood. "When is the pass going to be safe?" "One week." "That long?" Her shoulders slumped. The trip to Helena would be dangerous, but she didn't have any other choice. She watched Reid throw another log on his pile as an idea formed in her mind. She could ply him full of whiskey until he passed out, then leave the next morning. Surely he wouldn't come after her with a hangover. She had a plan. She smiled, pleased with herself. "Come in the cabin. I'll make a decent meal for us. I'm feeling better already." "I’d rather stay out here until it’s finished." She smiled prettily. "Suit yourself. Would you like me to bring you another bottle of whiskey? It wouldn’t be any trouble." She noticed the frown creasing his brow and hoped she wasn't laying the sweetness on too thick. She turned back to the house and realized the escape wouldn't be as easy as she had hoped. *** Angel opened the oven door and took the pan of biscuits from the rack above the coals. She quickly shut it to keep the heat from escaping and placed the pan on the counter. Knowing she didn't have much time left, she dropped the biscuits onto a plate, burning her fingers in the process. She wrapped several in a clean towel and pushed them into a paper bag. She wanted to leave plenty of food for Reid. He had to wait out the last of the winter before he could travel to Helena for supplies. She heard the rush of wind as the outside door opened and escaped to the pantry. She slipped the biscuits behind a bag of beans on the shelf and tidied her hair. Reid came into the tiny room, his eyes brimming with anger. "Stealing from me?" She shook her head, trying to make her expression one of sincere innocence. "Of course not. I was simply looking for beans to add to the stew."

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He shot her a questioning look, then took the bag of beans covering the concealed biscuits from the shelf. He handed it to her with a growl. "Use these but make the meal quick, I’m hungry." Angel grasped the bag of beans to her breasts, surprised to notice that her hands had started to shake. When she calmed her nerves, she followed him out into the main room. She took the bottle of whiskey she set out on the counter a few minutes earlier and handed it to Reid with a smile "Thought it might help you relax. Would you like a glass?" He pulled the cork from the bottle and drank half the whiskey in a few gulps. "This’ll do." There were only three bottles left, and she hoped it would be enough to get him good and drunk. She dumped half of the bag of beans in the stew and stirred them into the simmering concoction of meat and vegetables. So far, so good. He was drinking the whiskey and soon she could leave. A pang of sadness jabbed her heart, but she pushed it down. She took the plate of biscuits to him and set it on the table. Pointing to the little slab of butter, she smiled hesitantly. "That’s the last of the butter. Use only what you need." She turned to leave but, Reid’s hand snaked out and grabbed her arm. When she looked at him, she saw the suspicion and hate in his eyes. She sighed. Even the whiskey couldn’t conceal his true feelings. Reid’s grip tightened around her arm until she cried out. "I wouldn’t think of it, Angel dear. It’ll be cold out there tonight." Her heart pounded in her chest. How did he know? She had been so careful. She tried to look surprised. "What are you talkin’ about?" Reid’s eyes narrowed. "You know what I mean, woman. I don’t want to have to track you down in the middle of the night. I would be very angry. You don’t want to see me very angry." She tried to pull out of his grasp, but he held tight. His gaze filled with pain and she wondered if the whiskey was making his expression so readable. Either way, it sent a knife through her heart. Angel looked away and stared out the window. Either she escaped or she would face the end of a rope. The thought chilled her to the bone. "I know the consequences of leavin’. You’d hunt me down until you saw vengeance. I’m not senseless." He let her go, not bothering to catch her before she stumbled and fell. She landed heavily on her rump with a frustrated squeal. He looked amused. "Go ahead and finish making that stew. I know I’m hungry and you haven’t eaten for awhile." She nodded in agreement. If she didn’t eat soon, she wouldn’t have the

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energy to make such a long journey. She rose to her feet, snatched the biscuit Reid had just buttered out of his hands, ate it and crossed the room. When she reached the counter, she turned and realized Reid had finished the bottle of whiskey. Triumphantly, she took another one from the counter and hurried to his side. He grabbed the whiskey from her hand and gulped the liquor down. Angel smiled with satisfaction. *** "That was a good meal, my dear. Very tasty indeed." Angel smirked, detecting a slur to Reid's speech. "Well aren't you a sorry sight tonight." A moment of guilt burdened her conscience and stripped the smile from her lips. His kindness and acknowledgment prodded the love hidden in her heart, but she knew it was only the liquor that had loosened his tongue. In the morning, he would still hate her. She squeezed her eyes shut and swallowed the lump lodged in her throat. Damn him to hell for being everything she longed for and could never have. Damn him. She wished...she wished... She bit her lip. No, she wouldn't think such a thing. She would treasure her time with Reid. He had taught her so much in such a short time...yet, so very little of the possibilities. Angel sat on the edge of her bed and stared at Reid. His head rested over the back of his chair while he drummed his fingers on his stomach to a beat only he could hear. "You're intoxicated." He glanced out the corner of his eye and grinned. "You're right, I am." She took a bowl of stew from the nightstand and started to eat. "You remind me of Alice. She was a lot like you in the beginning." She stiffened, staring aghast at Reid. "Whatever do you mean?" He sat up in the chair and penetrated her with his haunted gaze. "She was beautiful, proper, and a good housewife. Then, everything changed." She leaned forward, forgetting the stew. "What? What changed?" Reid's eyes took on a luminous sheen, his gaze hollow and broken. "She got pregnant. I don't think she liked the idea of something needing her more than life itself. I think the baby frightened her." He shrugged. "Of course, not long after, I found out the child wasn't mine. I don't suppose I ever really knew her at all." She stared at him, blinking like a fool for what seemed like hours. Finally, she assembled whatever control she could muster and swiped away the tears that had collected on her lashes with the back of her hand.

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Angel swallowed hard and stared at her hands. "Life isn't fair. It never was nor ever will be. I'm sorry, Reid. One day, someone will change your world and you'll believe again." She placed the bowl back on the nightstand and rested her head in her hands. Taking a ragged breath, she tried to ignore the pain swelling in her chest. She wanted to be the person to make him believe again. She wanted to make the difference in his life. She couldn't endure the feelings his words created after she had worked so hard to kill the love living in her heart. She would leave him soon, and her survival depended on whether she was able to ignore the incessant throbbing in her heart that begged her to stay. The indecision warring her longing against her thoughts pushed out the last shred of innocence she held dear. She didn't want to go...she couldn't stay. The bed dipped. Angel glanced up to see Reid sitting next to her, appreciation glinting in his eyes. She took a deep breath and found it hard to take another. She looked away, trying to calm her nerves. The heat from Reid's body penetrated her clothing and sent shivers up her back. She looked out the corner of her eyes and saw that he was staring at her hands. She wrung them, trying to think of something to say or do. His hand was warm and rough as it covered hers. She stiffened and forced her gaze to remain on their entwined hands. "Your heart is deserving. You never resembled her, Angel." She hoped the desire she heard in his voice was only a figment of her imagination. Perhaps it hadn’t been such a good idea to ply him full of whiskey. She feared she had gotten herself into more than she could handle. With each of his touches, her willpower slipped away. Reid’s hand grazed her cheek. When heat swept down her neck and to her breasts, she nearly shot to her feet. The calluses on his hand abraded her skin as his thumb caressed her jaw. The simple touch sent waves of tingles to the center of her thighs. She moaned and tried to pull away from him, but he would have none of it. He pulled her closer and continued the assault. She pulled away, pushing his hand back to his lap. "Please, don’t," she pleaded, hoping he would see through the whiskey-induced delirium to what he was doing to her and immediately stop. His hand flew up to caress her hair. "Every day you tempted me with that devilish sway of your hips. Did you think I didn’t notice?" Angel sucked in her breath. "You wouldn’t be sayin’ this if you had your mind about you. You don’t know what you’re doing because you’re drunk." She closed her eyes and breathed deeply. Reid's scent of pine excited her. His fingers slid up and down her arm, causing the hairs to rise on her skin. She let her head fall back, exposing her neck. She could no longer think of right and wrong. All she knew was she enjoyed Reid’s touch far more than she

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should. He pushed her back against the bed. When she opened her eyes, he was leaning on his elbow over her, his green gaze narrowing with desire. "The huskiness of your voice when you’re angry or when you feel desire lights my soul on fire. I wonder if you know what those suggestive looks can do to a man." She barely heard what Reid said. The feelings he created inside of her with a simple touch consumed her until she couldn't think. When his fingers moved up her side, she shivered and tried to hold him closer. His fingers continued their path until they danced over her left breast, then tortured her right breast. "Why...are you...doing this?" she panted. He chuckled. "Because I want to, and you can’t tell me you don’t." Angel wanted to fight him, to push him away, but her limbs weren’t of a mind to obey her. She lay in his arms, vulnerable to whatever he wanted to do to her. She was ashamed to think she was so willing. The softness of his lips tickled her temple. He rained kisses over her forehead, eyes, nose, and then he stopped, suspended over her lips. "I want you to look at me when I kiss you, Angel. I want you to know it’s me who is driving the pleasure into you." She opened her eyes. "Do what you will, Reid Spencer. I’m not of a mind to stop you." He groaned and pressed his lips to hers in a passionate kiss that made shivers run down her spine. Desire pounded through her body and throbbed between her thighs. Whimpering, she strained against his muscular build and allowed his tongue to part her lips. Her hands rose to clutch his shirt, and she pulled him closer. When Reid nudged her legs apart, Angel opened them willingly - curious what would follow. He settled his body between her legs, then rained kisses over her neck and shoulder. She knew it was wrong to be intimate without the promise of marriage, but his kisses prevented her from stopping him. Reid pulled away, the cold air rushing over her naked skin. She wanted to pull him back, but his words stopped her. "Look at me, Angel." She opened her eyes and saw the emotions swirling in his gaze. His dark hair fell around her face in an arc, tickling the sides of her neck. She blinked her eyelids as the fog started to fade from her mind. What was she doing with Reid? Had she completely lost her mind? His hand rose and pushed a few stray tendrils from her face, his fingers grazing the delicate skin behind her ear. His eyes, powerful in their intensity, snatched her heart from her chest. She realized she would give him anything if

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he would love her in return. The thought was a simple declaration of her loyalty to him but a hard one for her to justify. "Tell me you want me." Angel shook her head in denial. "No." When he cupped her chin and forced her to look into his eyes, she tried to turn her head away. He smiled, the wrinkles at the corner of his eyes deepening. "Tell me, Sweet Angel. Tell me what I’ve been waiting to hear." She wanted to deny him what he asked of her. When she looked into his gaze and saw the pain lurking in the green depths, she couldn't. The tears rose to her eyes and blurred her vision. "Y-yes, I want you." Reid’s hand slid down the front of her stomach, then to her calf until she felt his finger’s fumbling with the hem of her skirt. He looked into her eyes and slowly pulled the material up to her waist. She watched in horror as Reid pitched forward and passed out, his arm thrown over her.

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Chapter Ten Reid opened his eyes, aware of the relentless pounding in his head. The sunlight streaming through the window blinded him. He groaned and squeezed his eyes shut, silently willing the pain to lessen. Bolting up in the bed, he gripped the worn quilt until he heard the material tear. The events of the previous night flooded his mind. The suggestive sway of Angel’s hips, coupled with the inviting smile she bestowed upon him, had distracted him past reason. He had soon lost count of the times she’d given him another bottle of whiskey and became intoxicated. The fact he had acted like a young schoolboy smitten with the teacher angered him. He found it bittersweet that in his intoxicated stupor he had attacked Angel. The memory of her lying so willingly in his arms caused his breath to quicken. He tried to push the thought from his mind. Despite his attempts, he couldn’t still the awakening desire. He knew she hadn’t expected his advances, and in truth, neither had he. The silkiness of her skin cried for his touch, and with the whiskey clouding his mind he hadn’t been able to deny his need...or hers. Reid shook his head, realizing where his thoughts had gone. Angel was his enemy. He despised the fact that he could be at the mercy of his enemy’s hands with a flash of her smile and a glimpse of her voluptuous thighs. He had a sickening sense that Angel would be his greatest enemy...and the hardest war he would ever fight. He would bring the vixen to her knees. His tongue darted out to wet his lips with the prospect of such a victory. The slight sweetness of her skin lingered in his mouth. He could taste her, and just as easily, he remembered how it had felt to touch her. Recalling the provocative thrust of her hips against him, he groaned and tried to push the thoughts from his mind. He glanced around the room and realized she was not sleeping on the pallet. Thinking she slept in the adjoining bedroom, he slowly eased from the bed. He reached out and grasped the headboard as the pounding in his head made him dizzy. "Angel!" When he opened the bedroom door, he found the bed empty. He stared at the rumpled bed sheets, confused. Closing the space between the door and the bed, he ran his hand over the linens. They were ice cold. She was long gone.

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He clenched his fist, the bones in his hand stretching the skin to its limit. Did she think he would wake and decide not to follow her? Had she thought of what he would do if he found her? When he found her? He hurried into the outer room and took his coat from the wall. The sight of the bare peg where Angel's coat usually hung only infuriated him further. The damn fool was going to get herself killed. Without proper clothing she would freeze to death. What was she thinking? He groaned as a frightening picture came to his mind. Without the proper weapon, a scavenging animal might take such an opportunity for a tasty meal. Reid slammed his hand into the door. When he found her, he would tie her to the bed to teach her a lesson. Damn, the woman tested him beyond measure. "If I have half a mind, I'd let you die out there!" he said as he pulled his coat on. He had to find her before dark or she would freeze. He pushed his feet into his boots and pulled the strings until his feet started to lose circulation. With a shaky sigh, he released the pressure. He would find her...he had to. *** Angel stared into the forest of pine trees. She took a cleansing breath and quickened her pace with renewed energy. It had been hours since she left the cabin and every part of her body was numb from the cold. She wiggled her toes inside her boots and tried to bring the feeling back. Groaning as the tingles spread up her legs, she forced herself to continue walking. She knew Reid would awaken soon and hoped he wouldn’t try to follow her. If she never laid eyes on the man again it would be too soon. Tired and cold, she leaned against a tree and tried to control her breathing. As the hours dragged on, she found it easier to despise Reid for his advances. If she let her mind wander, she could feel his hands roaming over her body as they had the night before. He was at least a mile away and even from such a distance he still had control over her body. She pushed herself away from the tree, her glove catching on a splinter. She moaned as it pierced her finger and angrily pulled the piece of wood from her glove. She had to stop thinking about him and keep walking. If he found her now, he would hurt her. She knew that for certain. She raised Reid’s Colt to eye level and checked the bullets. She was glad she had brought the gun. There were numerous animals in the mountains that wouldn’t think twice about having her for dinner. The prospects of reaching Helena before an animal decided to claim his dinner looked slim. A creature of some sort was following her. Even now, she

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could see its humped form just beyond a tree in the distance. A shiver raced up her back. She knew it could smell her fear and sensed her death was near. The animal was waiting for her to succumb to the cold. She glanced down and ran her fingers over the shiny metal of the gun. It was an uncomfortable weight in her hand. Somehow, the weeks with Reid had made her lifestyle foreign to her. She looked upon returning to the robberies with dread and fear. Nothing would ever be the same. He had changed her. With an angry sigh, Angel trudged through the snow. Her gaze darted around the clearing, searching for movement. She was surrounded by trees, and a few feet away on all sides, the forest faded to black. When she saw nothing, she stared straight ahead and willed her legs to move faster. She would be well on her way to Helena if she hadn't lingered for so long at the cabin. The opportunity was there, Reid was passed out on the bed, and the sunlight shining through the window would guide her, yet she couldn't leave. She stood at the door, staring at the sunlight touching the branches and watched her breath coil in the air. She stood there at war with herself. Unable to stay and unable to leave. Her head had won out in the end and she had allowed herself one final glance in Reid's direction. Had she known the pain she was inflicting upon herself, she never would have turned back. The sight of him sprawled out on the bed with his dark strands tangled on the pillow, and his face as serene as a child's devastated her. In that moment, she knew that all the dreams she was leaving behind with Reid were a possibility. Afraid to do anything else, she branded his face in her memory and closed the door behind her. Angel heard something growl to her right and gripped the gun to her chest. A branch snapped deep in the forest. She whirled around, her gaze darting from tree to tree. A white rabbit jumped through a small patch of melting snow, then stopped to nibble on a yellow blade of grass. She smiled, feeling foolish. The growl sounded again, only much closer. She cocked her gun and prepared to use it. Some senseless part of her hoped it was Reid. He would be a friendly sight compared to whatever lurked in the shadows. "Looking for something?" The hairs on Angel’s neck prickled as a shiver ran down her back. The voice was quite familiar and from the anger underlying the tone, she knew she should run and run fast. This was her last chance for freedom, and she had failed. Still, she sure as hell wasn’t going to give up so easily. With a scream of defiance, she started running as fast as she could, narrowly missing a tree trunk. The heat burst through her legs, and she forced them to pump harder. She stumbled. Picking herself up, she glanced over her shoulder. Reid wasn’t there. She realized she might still have a chance to get

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away from him. She ran faster and looked back once to make sure he wasn’t following her. Not looking where she was going, she slammed into a tree. The impact knocked her into the melting snow, drenching her. She blinked her eyes and squinted in the bright sunlight. As her gaze traveled up, she met the furious green eyes of the only person in the entire territory she would rather not see. He stood over her with his legs spread to brace his weight. He was an ominous presence with his arms crossed over his muscular chest and anger defining his features. The muscles in his jaw flexed as he stared at her. He said nothing, revealed nothing. He just stood there like a mountain of hidden anger. She stared at his lips, then blushed as she remembered the passionate kisses he had rained on her neck. She looked down at her lap and waited for Reid to begin his threats...or worse...hurt her. When Angel glanced up again, he hadn’t moved. The tension was so tight between them that she wanted to scream just to hear the sound of her own voice. "What?" He stared at her. The anger and something akin to pain reflected in his eyes. His gaze delved into her like a knife. She glared at him. "Would you at least say something?" He reached down, grabbed the back of her coat and hauled her to her feet. When she tried to support herself on her right leg, she realized her ankle was sprained. The pain shot up her calf, but she didn’t dare cry out. She would not show him any weakness. She balanced herself on her left leg and straightened to look him in the eye. "It was all in your plan wasn’t it, Sweet Angel?" She frowned. "I don’t know...what you mean." When his eyes dared her to deny the fact, she faltered. Reid’s hands snaked around each side of her neck until his fingers curled in her collar. He pulled her close until she was only inches from his face. "Let me remind you." His breath smelled of old whiskey as his mouth slammed over her lips, crushing them beneath his teeth. Angel cried out and pushed against his chest, but it was no use. She didn’t have the strength to stop him. She willed herself to go limp in his arms. When he continued kissing her, his tongue sliding over her lips, she clamped her mouth shut and waited for it to end. Finally, he gave up with a growl. "You are as cold as a fish." She narrowed her eyes. "Sorry to disappoint you." "What’s wrong, Angel? I’m not good enough since you don’t have a use for me?"

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She flinched, then hoped he hadn’t noticed. He was right. She had used him. "I don’t know what you are talkin’ about." Chestnut colored tendrils slid out from the leather binding he wore in his hair and floated in the wind. "Are you admitting you wanted me then?" he asked. She shivered as a memory of his muscular body rubbing up against hers flitted through her mind. Yes, she wanted him. She wanted him more than any decent woman should. That secret would remain hers and hers alone. "Of course I didn’t." Reid smirked, the creases around his eyes deepening. "Then what of your moans and your cries as I tasted you?" Heat spread up Angel’s neck and over her cheeks. She looked away from him, embarrassed. His hand thrust her head up until she met his gaze. Growing tender, his eyes flicked over every feature of her face. When she tried to pull away, his soft expression hardened. "If you didn't want me, then you wouldn’t have opened your thighs so willingly. Nor would you have melted under my caresses." She tried to pull her face out of his hand but his grip tightened. "Bastard!" she spat. He let go of her chin. "Liar." Angel dusted the snow off her skirt. "What will you do with me?" "We’re going back to the cabin." She straightened her back and glared at him. "I’ll run away again." Reid roared, his head falling back as the laughter rolled from his chest. She glanced around the clearing, wondering how long it would take him to catch her if she took off running. She decided against it. She didn't dare test the power of his anger. He turned to her, wiping the tears of laughter from his eyes. "You wouldn’t get very far." "Why is that?" she asked, intimidated by the underlying threat in his tone. He rubbed the whiskers dotting his chin and grinned. "I’ve been following you for an hour. All you’ve been doing is walking in circles. Had I not followed you, you would have been dead by nightfall." *** Duke leaned forward in his saddle to miss a low hanging branch and glanced at Lee. He didn't agree with this damned trip and had been in a foul mood ever since they started out that evening. There was still too much snow to get through the pass, but Lee refused to listen to him. They had come out

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for nothing. "Damn it, Duke. I feel your eyes borin’ a hole in my back." Duke chuckled, his mood lightening a little. "Well, I’m not the one who dragged your sorry rump out on a cold night like this for no purpose at all." Lee shot him a look that made Duke regret his choice of words. His brother leaned forward in his saddle and slapped his horse’s flank. "I’m glad to hear you care so little for Angel." He growled low in his throat. "That’s not what I meant. The pass ain’t going to thaw for awhile yet. I don’t know why I let you drag me out here." His brother halted his horse and jumped down from the saddle. Not bothering to wait for Duke, he headed up the path ahead of him. "We’ll have to walk the rest of the way. It’s too risky to ride the horses up there." Duke dismounted and threw the reins over his horse’s neck. "Well let’s get started then." He heard the gun shots before he took a single step up the slope of the mountain. He pulled his gun from its holster and searched the land around him. Four feet beyond the outline of trees, the forest faded to shadows. He couldn’t see a thing. "Keep an eye out," he whispered, hoping Lee heard him. Several more gunshots echoed through the clearing. A bullet whizzed past Duke’s ear. "They’re shootin’ at us, Lee. Let’s get the hell out of here." Lee stood his ground. "I’m not leavin’. Let’s see who the bastard’s are." He crossed the space between them in two strides. Grabbing Lee’s collar, he hauled him to his feet. "Don’t be playing no hero, Lee. You’ll only get yerself killed. Now mount up." Duke took his own advice. Taking the reins, he kicked his horse into a run. He hated leaving the scene, but in the forest the people firing the weapons had the advantage. He turned in his saddle and saw a man walk out into the clearing, his red hair glinting in the moonlight. Duke shook his head. A gang always made their stakes closer to town to keep an eye on the Sheriff and the stagecoaches. What the hell was the Hunt gang doing so far from Helena? A shiver slipped up his spine and chilled his blood. Somehow, Johnny knew Angel was on the mountain. Duke gritted his teeth. If the bastard touched one hair on his sister's head he would kill him with his bare hands. *** When Reid heard the distinctive pop of a gun firing in the distance the hairs on the back of his neck prickled. His gaze shifted to Angel. She flinched

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beneath his probing stare, then as if she were conscious of the sign of weakness, she straightened and challenged him with her gaze. He saw the glint of hope hiding in the depths of her gaze, a tingle of respect curling in his stomach. Through it all, she never lost sight of reality. She knew her brothers would eventually come for her because they cared about her. He admired that kind of relationship within the boundaries of a family. He had never known such a love. He was about to speak, but the wind wheezing through the limbs of the trees silenced him. He became transfixed as the breeze lifted Angel’s hair with invisible fingers only to let the silky tresses float back to their previous position over her breasts. A yearning he hadn’t felt in years settled in his soul. Reid glared at Angel, the anger at such a response building in his veins. "Your brothers haven't come to rescue you." A spattering of muted shots pierced the air. He frowned, a sense of dread chilling his heart. Though an illness had kept him from the War Between the States, he knew the sound of enemy fire. Whoever fired the guns were not on friendly terms. Unshed tears glittered in her eyes. "If not today, then tomorrow." The sound of her whispered words pulled him from his thoughts. When he glanced at her, he saw she was wringing her hands while she stared through the trees, searching for something. An expression of worry replaced the hope in her gaze. She turned to him, her eyes pleading. "There is somethin’ I must ask of you." He couldn't tear his gaze from hers. The tears glittering on the rim of her lashes cut through the hard shell he had erected after years of pain. His heart slammed against his ribs in rebellion. "What? What is it?" he demanded. He watched her bite her lip as if to weigh the possibilities. Then, as if they were too much for her to fathom, she closed her eyes as a tremor coursed through her body. When she gazed at him, he found the sapphire depths sightless...as empty as a dried up riverbed. "Do what you will with me but leave my brothers alone. They’ve done you no harm, Reid Spencer." He stared into her eyes, realizing he had been wrong to think they were sightless. Instead, they were filled with pain. A pain so deadening it took the life from her. The realization troubled him. "I will do what you have asked." She nodded, her eyelids closing as a tear slipped down her cheek. He turned, trying to ignore the rapid beat of his heart and the incessant thought that he should comfort her. Why should he give the woman who had caused his pain such a luxury? Reid straightened the reins and prepared for the ride back to the cabin. He would keep his promise to her. He did not have any dispute with her

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brothers. Angel, on the other hand, was the outlaw who had ruined his life. The minute he lost hold of that realization would be the minute she won the war. He regarded her coldly. "If you cause me any more trouble, I will not hesitate to tie you to your bed. Am I understood?" He saw her jaw clench as she nodded, her eyes narrowing with anger. "Now, if we are to get back to the cabin at a reasonable time we had better ride." He felt her presence at his side, the soft scent of roses following her everywhere. Turning, he gazed into sapphire ice. Her lips were seductively plump as she stared at him, and her hair wove around her head with the wind until she looked as though she came from a bed of tangled sheets. She was a most attractive fantasy indeed. He held out his hand to help her into the saddle. He yelped as a stabbing pain swept through his ankle. He glanced down to see that she had stamped the heel of her boot on his foot and was about to do so again. He pushed her away before she could fulfill her wish and wiggled his toes to ease the pain. "Damn it, what the hell did you do that for?" he groaned. She giggled. "Oh, pardon me. I seem to have lost my footin'." When he watched her pull herself effortlessly into the saddle, the corners of his mouth turned up into a soft smile. She hadn't lost her spirit after all. *** Angel caught a glimpse of Reid’s cabin through the pine trees bordering his land and wished the horse would move faster. She glared at the back of his neck, wondering when the anger he held so carefully in check would erupt. He hadn’t said a word since they started back to the cabin and his silence was beginning to wear thin with her. The horse stumbled over a frozen patch of dirt. Angel pitched forward and circled her arms around Reid’s waist to prevent herself from falling. When her breasts pressed into his back, she felt him stiffen and quickly pulled away. She could deal with his anger or even with his sadness, but his silence frightened her. When Reid led the horse up to the porch, she dismounted and waited for him to do the same. He leveled a cold gaze in her direction, then headed off to the stable without a word. Frustrated, she hurried up the steps of the porch, hoping he would come inside to eat. She lifted the latch and entered the chilly room. With a tired sigh, she rubbed her hands over her arms, then set about starting a fire in the hearth. When the logs burst into flames and the room started to warm, she

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began making the biscuits for their dinner. She hoped her efforts would appease Reid's anger. She didn't feel like getting into another argument with him. She heard the sound of Reid’s boots on the porch, and then the rattle of the latch as he came in. Taking out her frustration and fear on the dough, she beat the dry ingredients together until her arm ached. When she could no longer delay the inevitable, she turned to face him. Angel’s gaze met his cold stare as he sat at the table. "T-thought I’d make somethin’ t-to eat," she stammered, trying not to show her fear though failing miserably. Wishing she had her Colt to protect her, she rolled the batter out on the counter. She cut out circles of dough and laid them in a pan, trying to ignore the fear that pounded through her head. The sound of Reid’s chair scraping on the wooden floorboards caused the hairs on her neck to prickle. She stiffened. "I won’t hurt you if that’s what you’re thinking." She glanced up, surprised to see his expression had softened to concern. "Of course not. I never thought you would," she lied. "You could have gotten yourself killed out there." She faced him, the anger warming her face. "Dyin’ from the cold sounds a lot better then hangin’ from a rope before a crowd of townspeople who feel they have nothin’ better to do!" With a nod of understanding, he took a match from a box on the counter and lit the oven for her. "I’m going to work on the roof of the stable and won’t be back for dinner." She watched him put on his coat, then turned away. "I’m not the monster you make me out to be," he said softly. "Neither am I." She watched him leave. His actions didn't make sense. "Reid Spencer you don’t know what you want," she said to the silence surrounding her.

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Chapter Eleven The days went by quickly as Angel read one book after another to pass the time. When she finally took her nose out of a book, she wasn't sure when the end of April had finally arrived. Reid was never around to ask. He spent all of his time hunting and only came back to the cabin for sleep. His neglect irritated her. In all of two weeks, he had said three words to her. Good morning and good-bye. Lonely, she had turned to the many books lining Reid's shelves, but even they couldn't satisfy her cravings for companionship. She couldn't stand the silence for another day! With a frustrated sigh, she swept a towel over a tin bowl, then set it on the counter with a clunk. She regarded the sun-filled room with dread. What was she to do now? She had finished all of her chores and there wasn't another book she cared to read for a second time. She crossed the room and sat at the table. Pushing the lace curtains aside, she stared outside. Reid was chopping wood in the sunshine next to the stable. He paused to wipe the sweat from his brow and glanced toward the cabin. As his gaze touched hers, she ducked out of view, her heart pounding. Slowly, she inched her way back in front of the window. Reid's muscular chest rippled beneath his shirt as he lifted his ax, the metal gleaming in the sunlight. As he brought it down, a shudder slipped up the small of her back. Good Lord, he was a handsome man. A handsome man, indeed. A blue jay landed on the porch, catching her eye. It pecked at the wood, stared at her for a moment, then flew away. She followed its flight until it was a speck on the furthest mountain. When she glanced back to Reid, he was staring at her with a raised eyebrow and an amused glint in his gaze. She dropped the curtains back into place and sat straight in her chair, a blush burning her cheeks. Her smile faded. Tears stung the corner of her eyes. "Why must you torture yourself like this, Angel Walker? You have to escape again, and you're still holding the foolish notion of havin' him in your life." She slumped forward in her chair and rested her head in her hands. She still loved him. Lord help her but she did. Even after he threatened to take her to a certain death, her feelings remained the same. Certainly there wasn't a more foolish woman in all of Montana Territory. The door burst open. Her head snapped up. Reid walked into the room with a disgruntled sniff in her direction. He took off his coat and hung it up on

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the wall. His hand slid over the front of his shirt, stopping at a tiny hole in the navy blue material. "Damn. That's the third shirt I've ruined this week." He eyed her uneasily. "You don't happen to do needlework, do you?" Angel realized he had just spoken to her for the first time in a week and cleared her throat as a thrill of excitement shot up her spine. "My mother taught me years ago. She used to say a man didn't appreciate sewin' as much as a full stomach but it would come in handy someday. I'm sure I could remember if you wish." She knew she carried on like a love-starved child but couldn't seem to stop the emotions. She hadn't heard his voice in days had she missed him. She watched him sort through the chest at the end of her bed, a quiet need to start up another conversation tickling in her stomach. He pulled out several shirts, spools of thread and a pack of needles. Standing, he grabbed his back with a groan and brought the items to her. "Please?" he asked. Angel nodded and reached forward to take the shirts from him. Her hands touched his and for a moment there was a jolt of fire between them. "Thank you," he said as he dropped the shirts into her lap, breaking the moment. "I’ll be back later tonight." Angel couldn’t bare the endless hours alone anymore and rose. He was trying to ignore her, and she wasn’t about to let him get away with it. She took a deep breath to calm her nerves. "You can’t ignore me forever, Reid." She saw him stiffen. A few moments later he turned toward her with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Perhaps not. That would be too easy." She narrowed her eyes. "Too easy for what?" His silence gave her the answer to her question. She crossed the room and met his gaze, her expression daring him to look away. "You think it will be easy? I’m a flesh and blood woman. I have feelings and dreams like anyone else. Don't you see? It's not only about being Jade Sinclair. I have fears. I long for a different life. I am just...like...you." When he tried to look away, she took his face in her hands and forced him to acknowledge her. She couldn’t stop the tears from falling down her cheeks. She loved him and he didn’t feel the same. Swallowing convulsively, she prayed for courage. "Are you prepared to cause my death?" He pulled out of her grasp and sighed in defeat. "No." "Then I don’t want to hear you ever threaten me again." His lips curled into a snarl. "Don’t think it’s because I feel anything for you. I just can’t send a woman to her death." She recoiled as if he had slapped her. She stared at him incredulously. "Are you saying that you haven't felt anythin' for me in all this time?" "I haven’t." Pain burst in her chest. "You are a liar if I ever saw one. Even now you

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look at me with the lust in your eyes. Don’t think I haven’t seen it before?" "I don’t know what you're talking about. You're wrong." She sprang forward and took his hand before he could pull away. She put it over her breast, and at the same time, placed her hand over his heart. Almost immediately his heart beat quickened. "Even your body calls you a liar." Reid pulled his hand away from her as if she had burned him. "Any man would have the same reaction to a woman." The challenge warmed Angel’s blood, and before she knew what she was doing, she leaned forward until she could feel his breath on her lips. She expected him to pull away, knowing what she intended, but he did not. His eyes only grew a deeper shade of green as he waited, almost taunting her. Her eyes narrowed as tingles of pleasure spread up her body at the close contact. "Even now, your breathin' quickens. What of that? Will you admit you want me?" "Never." Her mouth closed over his in a passionate kiss...something she had learned only from him. Pleasure spread throughout her body as her lips grazed over his, softly, then hard once again. He stood still, not touching her, though his kisses became more urgent. She darted her tongue along the seam of his lips. His hearty moan of response sent tingles to the most feminine part of her. Gaining control of her emotions, she breathed deeply of the pine scent that seemed to emanate from his soul. His intriguing scent intoxicated her past thought...past reason. She deepened the kiss...determined to win this argument. When he groaned and wrapped his arms around her in surrender, she laughed triumphantly. She won. Giggling softly against him, she reveled in her victory. When Reid's hand slid over her leg and touched the juncture of her thighs, she jumped in surprise and horror. Warning flashed through her. When she had started the seduction Lilly taught her years ago, she hadn’t planned to go further than kisses. What had she done? Could she stop now that he was so ready for her? Giving into the need to touch him, she ran her hands over Reid’s trousers, feeling the muscles bunch beneath her fingers. He moaned and pushed into her, desperation evident in his insistence. She ignored the emotions pounding through her body and pulled away from him. She didn't want to give her virtue to someone whom, only moments before had wanted her dead. He didn't deserve such a gift. "Angel? What the hell were you tryin’ to prove?" he growled, staring down at her. She saw the confusion in his eyes and winced. "I started out wantin’ to prove you didn’t have it in you to send me to my death, then it became

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somethin’ more." "What?" The sunlight through the window sprinkled through Reid’s hair. The tresses lay in waves over his shoulder. She wanted to run her hands through the dark strands. To hold him close again. She wanted the return of his love. Clamping her hands together, she glanced at him blankly. "Nothin’. Forget I said anythin’." "I think I can guess." The green of his eyes grew darker as his face broke into a soft smile. She stared at him, blinking her eyes in denial. "You couldn't possibly." "I’ve loved only one person, Angel. Alice was my everything. It didn’t take long to find out that my everything wasn’t much at all. You taught me that." She stared in wonder as Reid stood and left the cabin. "I didn’t mean to fall in love with you, Reid Spencer." An uncomfortable silence followed the slamming of the door. What had he meant by his words? She had helped him see Alice wasn’t his everything? How did she help him? What did it mean? She sighed and walked to the bed, feeling as though she had missed something important. *** Reid slammed the door on her words, wishing to strike them from his memory. His fingers fumbled as he lit a cigarette. Finally, he succeeded and inhaled the calming smoke. He stared beyond the porch, the landscape blurring as he thought over every possibility for her endearment. He shook his head. He couldn't have heard her correctly. Those words...how could she toss them about so easily? His own confession drilled through his mind until he thought he would lose his mind. I’ve loved only one person, Angel. Alice was my everything. It didn’t take long to find out that my everything wasn’t much at all. You taught me that. His mouth had betrayed him, revealing thoughts that should have remained in the darkest part of his soul. What had he told her? That he loved her? He snorted in disgust and stared into the forest of trees bordering his land. He couldn't possibly love her. The thought...the mere idea was absurd. He softened as an unwelcome image pushed its way into his thoughts. He could deny her words all he wanted but the facts remained. In the luminous vision of her eyes lived the emotion that frightened him more than death itself. Her love for him was real. He threw his cigarette out in the snow and ran his hands through his hair.

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The frustration of the whole situation was unbearable. What was he to do? How should he proceed? Crossing the porch, he sat in the swing, his legs rocking him back and forth. Movement from the window caught his eye. Angel stood at the counter, vigorously kneading the dough for their lunch. As he watched, she tossed her hair out of her face, baring the silky lines of her neck. He glanced down to retrieve another rolled cigarette from his pocket, then looked back inside the cabin, enjoying his entertainment. Sapphire eyes met his gaze through the window. Her beauty took his breath away. The cigarette fell to his lap, forgotten. A soft, intimate smile played with the corners of her mouth. She looked down at her hands, then back up, the smile fading to an expression of intense interest. He swallowed hard, immediately making a decision. He knew exactly how he would proceed. As the first item on his agenda, he would listen to her story with an open heart. *** Reid's hands slid over her body as if he had done it a thousand times before. He caressed her curves, seeming to know instinctively when to ease the pressure of his fingers or delve into the hollows of her body. The touch awakened her flesh and mind to desire until she moaned, thrashing against him. She found herself wishing over and over again that he wouldn’t stop his exploration of her body. She wanted more. She wanted him. Shamelessly, she cupped her hand around his and met his gaze. The desire and tenderness she saw in the stormy depths of his eyes encouraged her. With a shaky breath, she dragged his callused palm over her trembling stomach and to the underside of her breast. Losing her nerve, she pulled her hand away and closed her eyes. Angel licked her lips, then gasped as his hand slid from her stomach, down her hips and cupped her backside. Pleasure coursed through her veins as his fingers grazed the tender part of her inner thigh. She bolted up in the bed with a start, the breath rushing from her lungs. Beads of sweat slid down her neck and disappeared beneath the covers. She smoothed her hair away from her heated face. It was only a dream. Only a dream. The latch on the door rattled as Reid came into the room. She pulled the blanket up to her chin and tried to avoid his stare. What if he could sense the desire that still excited her body? She would rather not know if he could. The embarrassment would be dreadful. "Good morning, sunshine. It's a beautiful day. Care to join me out on the

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swing?" Angel glanced up, her eyes darting around the room. "I have to start breakfast." "How long has it been since you’ve ventured outside?" "A week." He raised an eyebrow at her. She groaned. "Fine! More like two. Are you satisfied now?" He nodded and took her hand, grinning. "Maybe, but that depends on your answer. Put your coat on and come sit with me on the porch. Breakfast can wait." She shook her head. "I can't--" She frowned. Obviously something was wrong with him. His behavior was almost…friendly. Reid's finger across her lips promptly stopped her refusal. "I won't take no for an answer, Angel. This is doctor's orders." She sniffed at him. "You should have stated yourself correctly." "I don't understand." "You asked me if I wanted to join you when in actuality it was an order." He grinned. "A small technicality, I assure you." She looked away. "Harrumph. Maybe to you." His hand cupped her chin and pulled her face in his direction. "Are you feeling ill? Your face is flushed." Flashes of her dreams flashed through her memory. She pressed her hand to her cheek and found it warm to the touch. "Oh heavens n-no," she stammered. "I’m perfectly fine. Just a little w-warm." Angel moved past Reid and slipped into her coat. With a hesitant smile in his direction, she stepped out onto the porch. Reveling in the spring weather, she took deep breaths of the fresh morning air and enjoyed the new life blooming all around her. She walked to the swing and sat down, smiling as Reid joined her. A bird called up the mountain, catching the attention of Reid’s horse. She watched the mare dance in the pen, whinnying and tossing its head in the soft breeze. "Tell me why, Angel." She darted her gaze to Reid, a laugh choking in her throat. "What? Are you serious?" He smiled, the tenderness evident in his expression. "I am. Tell me why you chose to become an outlaw." She looked down and wrung her hands together as a hundred words rushed to her lips at once. "I don’t know where to begin." "How old were you when you shot me?" She fought off a grimace. "I was twenty-one."

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"I'm listening." She took a deep breath, then spoke quickly, the words falling from her mouth like diamonds. "We had a prosperous mine and there was a fortune of gold in the walls. Then, the gold started disappearin'. The only way we were able to survive and take care of my mother was to steal it back before it reached its destination on the stagecoaches. The sheriff wouldn't help us, and we didn't have any other choice. My mother was dying. I thought you were going to harm me when I shot you, Reid. My life hasn't been easy and the guilt has weighed heavily upon my heart. I am not proud of what I've done, but I am relieved that my mother is still alive because of my efforts." She shook her head and glanced down at her hands. She hadn't realized she was crying until she saw a tear sink into the material of her dress. His callused hand tugged at her chin until she met his gaze. The tears glittering in the depths of his green eyes hurt her beyond all measure. Her heart plunged into her stomach. "I'm sorry I didn't listen to you, Angel. So very sorry. Is there any way you could find it in your heart to forgive me?" She grasped his hand in hers and brought it to her lips, barely able to see beyond the tears. Numbly, she nodded. He reached forward and touched her arm, sending shivers up and down her body. "I’d like to show you something I found when I bought this land. Are you up for a short walk?" She smiled and wiped her tears away. "I would love to." As she watched, he went inside the cabin and returned with a blanket in his arms. He pulled her from the swing and led her into the forest. As they walked, she tried to step around the green shoots coming up from the ground and held Reid’s arm for support. She noticed a small white flower next to a tree and pointed to it. "Do you know what that is called? It certainly is a delicate little flower, isn't it?" He bent over and smiled. "They’re called Trillium. If you pick the flower it dies and won’t come back for years." "Then don’t even touch it!" she said, pulling on his arm until he stood. Laughing, Reid led her along a path, then through a forest of trees so tall she had to strain her neck to see the top branches. She breathed deeply of the scent of pine and thought of Reid’s fragrance. "Here it is. Be careful as you walk between the trees." Angel smiled at his concern and glanced through to the stream rippling in the sunlight. The water was so clear she could see her reflection in the depths. A few chunks of melting ice drifted over the surface, then disappeared. "Oh it's wonderful!" "I built the cabin up here because it is so beautiful."

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She watched Reid bend to pick a star-shaped yellow flower. "You would look beautiful with this in your hair," he whispered as he drew the tresses away from her face and placed the flower behind her ear. When his fingers grazed her neck, a shiver shot down her spine. She swallowed hard, wondering at the change in his attitude. "Where is the special place you were talkin’ about?" "It’s just past those trees," he answered while pointing ahead. "How are you feeling?" She nodded and darted ahead of him. Running into the clearing, she thought she had somehow taken a wrong turn to heaven. A stream fell over the rocks and into an exquisite waterfall. When the breeze died down, she could hear the sound of the water rushing over the rocks and the leaves on the trees rustling in the background. She felt fortunate to be sharing such a wonderful place with him. "I can see why you would think it’s special." She glanced at Reid in awe of the tenderness in his expression. He took her hand and pulled her closer to the water until droplets rained down on her face. She laughed and ran her tongue over her lips, happiness overwhelming her heart. When she flinched as his hand came up, he didn’t seem to notice. He traced the drops as they slid down her cheek with soft touches, his gaze penetrating the depths of her soul. Then, just as quickly, he stiffened and walked away. He smoothed the thick blanket out on the grass with great tenderness, then smiled at her and gestured to the blanket. "Sit down and rest." She laid down and shielded her eyes from the sun. "Do you come out here often?" "Every day for the last week." He had lied to her. When she thought he was hunting, he was spending his time in the forest. Reid squatted next to the blanket and handed a flower to her. She smelled the light fragrance coming from the petals and smiled. "Thank you," she said as she put it behind her ear. "What do you think? Too much?" He smiled. "You would make a most intriguing wood sprite." He took the flower from her and twirled it between his thumb and forefinger, his face turning serious. "I’ve been thinking about starting up a practice again." Angel blinked several times in surprise. "Are you serious?" He nodded. She sat up and hugged him. "That’s wonderful! I knew you would! Wasn't I right?" She smiled as he returned the hug. Then, just as suddenly, a cloud crossed over her heart. She leaned back and searched his face with her gaze.

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"What do you plan to do with me?" "You won’t ever have to steal again. I’ll take care of you and your family." Tears stung the corners of her eyes. She swallowed hard to control the sobs rising in her throat. Finally, she threw herself into his arms, knocking him back into the grass with a delighted squeal. She rained kisses over his face, then looked into his eyes. "You won't regret this." He smiled, softly. "I know." He ruffled her hair. "You are so beautiful." A shiver ran through her body at his words. She pulled away and smiled into his eyes. "Say that again and I might believe you." He grinned and pulled her closer. "You are beautiful." She stared into his eyes. "I believe you." Angel glanced up into Reid’s eyes and froze. His expression was tender, but the fire playing in the green depths foretold his thoughts. He was going to kiss her. She smiled and raised her face toward him, realizing how much she wanted him to. His mouth closed over hers and he kissed her with tender emotion. Her heart slammed against her chest as she slid her arms around his neck and pulled him closer. When Reid plunged his hands into her hair and deepened the kiss, Angel thought she would surely die if he continued. She whimpered in his arms and pulled him close, wanting more. One minute he was soft and yielding, then the next he was rough and passionate. She wasn’t sure which she liked best. When she wantonly pressed her body into his hardness, tingles welled up inside the juncture of her thighs. How many times had she wished to hold him this close? The need to have him inside of her both exhilarated and frightened her. As Reid’s hand slid up her side to her breast, she prayed he wouldn’t stop. His finger lazily caressed her nipple through the material of her blouse until she cried out and strained with the pleasure pushing through her body. The sound of her own passionate cry intensified her yearnings until she clawed at his back and moved her hips to fully accommodate his weight. Angel moaned into his mouth as the kisses deepened. A tiny niggling thought interrupted the passion roaring through her veins, intensifying until she could think of nothing else. With a sigh, she pushed away from him. "No. This isn't right. Please stop." Reid was breathing heavily and glanced into her eyes with an expression that nearly tore her heart in two. "Angel? What’s wrong? Didn’t you..." She sighed and rolled her eyes. Like it? Obviously, she had liked it too much. She sat up on the blanket and rested her head in her hands. "That’s not it at all."

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"Then what is it? If I moved too fast I apologize." She stood up and glanced toward the stream. "Oh, Reid. I am not sorry we..." She paused and turned her head to look at him, the heat burning her cheeks. "That we kissed." He stood and walked over to her, concern washing over his features. "Then what is it?" She smiled softly. "Meet me back at the cabin in a few minutes." "What?" "Do as I say and that's an order."

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Chapter Twelve Reid watched Angel dodge the overlying branches as she left and shook his head. He had been wrong to judge her. What sickened him most was his determination to seek revenge. If his family had been faced with starvation he might have done the same thing. How could he then hold such a crime against her? He remembered the soft pout of Angel’s lips and groaned. He had forgotten how beautiful she was in the last couple weeks. He had also overlooked how even the sway of her hips could cause his blood to boil. How easily he had forgotten how it was to kiss her....to taste the sweetness of her lips. He crossed the clearing and hurried to the cabin. He knew he hadn’t waited long enough, but his curiosity had gotten the best of him. What was she planning? Reid took the steps to the cabin two at a time and opened the door. What he found was other than what he had expected. The curtains dangled over the windows and one single lamp sent light into the room. The flame caused shadows to dance over the walls in tantalizing movements. His gaze settled on Angel. She was standing by the bed, dressed only in the flannel he had given her. The light from the lamp danced over her hair in coppery flames, arousing him instantly. His gaze slid down the expanse of her creamy neck to the sight of her breasts straining against the soft material as if begging him to do with as he would. The sight disturbed him. The ferocity of his feelings for her sprang to the surface. He wanted to touch her...feel himself slip inside of her. "Angel..." He knew his tone was a warning as her name growled in his throat. She looked down at her hands shyly, then back into his eyes with a newfound strength he hadn’t ever seen in her before. He knew he couldn’t fight her. If she wanted him to make love to her, then that’s what he would do. He watched Angel walk forward, her long legs taking the strides quickly. The material of the shirt gave way and offered him an enticing view of her creamy thigh. What he would give to touch her. His cabin...his life. When she pushed herself into his arms, a surge of tender emotion assaulted him. Her cheek nuzzled the material over his heart as though she accepted him for the man he was and not the distant and uncaring man he tried

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to be. Her lips puckered over his chest, softly touching the fabric over his nipple. He groaned deep in his throat. All he had known of women didn’t compare to his time with Angel. The women he had been with before demanded his sex, never anything else. He had known woman of society...he was their playtoy. He had known prostitutes. They were his playtoy. Even Alice hadn’t returned his caresses. She had just lain immobile until he was finished. Now as he looked down at the woman who threatened to steal his heart, he had the profound understanding that they would share the pleasure...something he had never experienced. His heartbeat sped up at the idea of the moments to follow. She lifted her face to him, her luminous eyes delving into his soul. He almost stepped away, surprised at the powerful love he saw in the sapphire depths, but her hands slipped up his back, caressing the tension from his muscles with the steadiness of the affection evident in her eyes. The touch moved him beyond anything he had ever experienced. Tenderly, he raised his trembling hand to her face and caressed the underside of her chin with the pad of his thumb. The tear that slid down her cheek to meet his hand devastated him. With a growl, he smoothed it away and met her gaze. Her eyes pleaded with him but for what? What did she beg of him? He did not know and could not guess. "I see the questions in your eyes," he said. Feeling the frustration rise in his heart, he tipped her chin back until she met his gaze. Another tear slipped past her temple to disappear into her hair. "What would you have me do, woman? What? Name it?" "Love me." The words were soft, uncertain. Yet, they wrenched a frustrated cry from his lips. Love her. She asked so little and yet asked so much. Love her. He could not love her. Reid groaned, pulling her closer. "Angel, I--" She shook her head. "Don’t talk. Don’t fill your mind with the questions that could so easily ruin this moment. Just feel me." She raised his hands until his right hand rested over her heart. The throbbing against his skin overwhelmed him, the arousal growing tight in his trousers. "We shouldn’t." "We should." With a growl of resolve, he plunged both of his hands into the thick coppery mass of her hair and pressed his lips to hers, urgent in his need of her. When her lips became soft and coaxed his into a kiss beyond his imagination, all the doubts and questions floated away. The scent of roses came from her body and clouded his senses until he couldn’t fathom anything but having her in his arms. Of touching her, tasting

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her, feeling her give way to her wants and desires. It was a heady arousal that worked havoc over his body. He wanted her more than he wanted life itself. As Angel reached for him, Reid saw the fear in her eyes and softened. Instinctively, he knew she was afraid that he would rebuff her as he had done so many times before. When he pulled her into his embrace and cradled her head against his pounding chest, he felt her pain. He saw how much it had taken for her to risk his rejection. Yet, she had overcome it to love him. His heart swelled until he thought it would burst. He slowly unbuttoned her shirt until it fell to the floor, leaving her as naked as the day she was born. Angel’s gaze was steady and strong as his gaze slid over her body, burning the beautiful image into his memory. The soft fall of her hair as it rested over her breasts gave him a view of a rosy tipped nipple thrust in his direction. With a groan, his perusal continued over the flare of her hips to the soft coppery curls nestled between her creamy thighs. "Why do you want this?" he asked. She met his gaze. "You know the answer." "Do I?" "I love you." The words shattered the last bit of restraint he had. She loved him. If only he could love her back. If only he could give her what she lovingly gave to him. "I don’t deserve your love." "Perhaps not," she said with a wavering smile. He held out his hand to her and hoped she would come into his arms. He couldn’t bare it if she denied him now. When she took his hand and squeezed it gently, he led her to the bed and pushed her back against the quilt until she lay out in all of her glory. *** Angel let her head fall back as she arched her body into his hands, wanting more of him. Nothing had ever felt so right in her life. Nothing. Still, there was a horrible ache twisting inside of her soul. She needed to become one with him...to feel the emptiness inside of her fulfilled. She smiled to herself as Reid rained kisses down her neck. It was right to give herself to him before they married. Feeling mischievous, she raised her hands and ripped the shirt from his chest. The buttons flung through the air and scattered all over the floor. "Another shirt for you to bide the time with," Reid whispered as his lips grazed the delicate skin at her collarbone. She felt the coarse wool of his trousers fall over her feet and opened her eyes as Reid stepped back to let her see his naked body. Once, at Lilly's she had walked into the wrong room and saw a naked

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man standing by the window. That man didn't hold a candle to Reid. The expanse of his chest seemed to go on forever. Her gaze slid down his body to the tightness of his stomach, then to the source of his passion. He was aroused and ready for her. A moment of trepidation rose in her heart. Would she be able to...accept him into her body? Angel feared her breathing gave away her state of mind but couldn't figure out why she should care. Her body burned for his touch. Self conscious, she raised her legs but felt his warm hand push them back down, sending a shiver to her core. She closed her eyes and waited for him to join her on the bed. When his hand cupped the mound at the center of her thighs, she gasped and met his gaze. He smiled and entwined his fingers through the curls until she thought she would go out of her mind if he didn't cease the ache building between her legs. "You are so beautiful, Angel." His fingers parted her curls and slipped inside, sending liquid fire through her body to meet his touch. She clutched his hand with wild abandon as he stroked her slick flesh. She closed her eyes as Reid pushed her legs apart. When he rained kisses up the inside of her knee and stopped at her inner thigh, her breath caught in her throat. He couldn't possibly go any further... "What are you doing to me, Reid? I-I can't see beyond your touch." "As it is supposed to be, my love." Reid’s tongue, fingers, and lips came down on her, weaving their delightful pleasure through her body until she thought she would have to ask him to stop or surely succumb to whatever peril awaited her. She strained against him, her breath coming out in rapid bursts of air as she willed it to end. His tongue wove its torture over her body until she was panting and whimpering for the release. Then, just when she thought it would end, every muscle in her body tensed as she came to the edge of the cliff and jumped off. A brilliant white light exploded behind her eyes as pleasure engulfed her. Her body convulsed, wracked by pure ecstasy. She opened her eyes and met his gaze as small tremors wracked her body. "Tell me the truth, Reid Spencer. Have I died and gone to heaven?" she asked, her voice hoarse and trembling. "No, love. You haven’t. You’ve only experienced a glimpse of it." "A glimpse? You can’t mean there’s more," her gaze searched his face for his lie. "There’s definitely more." She took his hand and raised it to her lips, kissing his palm. "Show me," she whispered, daring him with her eyes to do whatever he desired.

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He flicked his thumb over her nipple until her hands fell away. She thrashed beneath him, then stilled as he crawled on top of her, resting the weight of his body between her thighs. A moment of fear flashed through her but quickly faded. The length of him pressed into her stomach. She gasped. He was big...far bigger than she could take inside of her. Surely he would hurt her. When he smiled tenderly, his gaze warm and inviting, she decided that she didn’t care. All she wanted was give to him what he had given to her. "I want you but I’m frightened." She squeezed her eyes closed and waited for the pain Lilly had warned her about. "Angel, look at me." She opened her eyes. He kissed her nose, then her lips in a passionate kiss as he pushed himself through the barrier of her gift to him. She moved beneath him as he pushed further inside. Frustrated, she reached up, grasped his hips and pulled him all the way through. She cried out as the pain ebbed and then flowed away. Opening her eyes, she blinked and realized the pain had been meaningless...worthless. "Just a little more, Angel....ah." She watched the expression of pleasure pass over his face as he buried himself to the hilt inside of her. He threw his head back, his face so tranquil that she thought he had reached heaven, but he opened his eyes and leveled a hungry gaze on her. "Are you all right? I didn’t hurt you did I?" "No. I’m fine." "Should I continue?" "By God, yes," she breathed as he started to move inside of her. He increased his thrusts until she thought she would explode into a million stars. Helpless to the pleasure he was giving her body, she started to whimper and begged him not to stop. His whole body stiffened, and she instinctively raised her legs to wrap them around his hips. When he moved deeper inside of her, she gasped and panted his name. Angel thrust her hips up to meet his, eager to take all of him inside of her, eager to make him one with her. She strained with the pleasure, panting and pulling him closer. The rhythm of his thrusting increased until tingles swept over her body every time he sheathed himself inside of her. She arched her back and grabbed the bedpost to take him into the core of her, her whimpers turning into tiny screams as the sensations built to a crescendo. Reid thrust into her one last time, and she heard his hearty groan of release just before her body quivered with her own. She cried out his name and

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clung to him as his body took her to yet another level of pleasure. *** Angel awoke to soft kisses falling upon her nose, lips and breasts with a lazy smile. They had made love the whole night through until they collapsed in each other's arms. She recalled the bliss of their exchange with a contented sigh. "Wake up, sleepy head." She slowly opened her eyes, then groaned as the bright light streaming through the window blinded her. Feeling his hand cradling her face, she stared into his tender gaze. "The night went by so quickly. I never wanted it to end." He chuckled, the dimples forming on his stubbled cheek. "There are so many more days and nights to come, love." She smiled softly. "Do I dare hope?" His hand slid down her side and cradled the curls at the juncture of her thighs. Pleasure jolted through her body. "You can't mean...not in the middle of the day!" He kissed her softly on the lips, nose and then the hollow between her breasts. When he met her gaze, his eyes were clouded with passion. "In the middle of the day, in the middle of the night, whenever and again and again." His fingers slipped into the liquid fire building in the core of her. She gave into the passion that consumed her with a shudder. "Oh Reid." The sensations passing through her body exhilarated her. She wondered if making love would be as wonderful after they married. The idea made her chuckle. Reid stiffened against her, his hand stilling enough so she could think. "What’s so amusing?" She giggled, happily. "I was just wonderin’ if it would be this...heavenly after we’re..." She watched his head dip to take her nipple into his mouth, flicking it until she moaned and pulled him closer. "After we’re what?" he asked softly. "Oh!" she exclaimed as the fibers of pleasure wound through her body. "A-after w-we’re m-married," she panted. His muscles tensed beneath her hands. When he pulled away, the cold air rushed over her body, dousing her passion. His face turned stony, devoid of any emotion as he looked down at her. She shook her head in denial. "What did I say?" When he rose from the bed, she sat up and watched him, the tears stinging the corners of her eyes. She gritted her teeth. "You never intended to marry me, did you?" He paused as he pulled his trousers on and sent her a look that shattered

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any hope of marriage she entertained. A single tear slid down her cheek. "But you said you would take care of us." He pulled his trousers up, a blessing because she was beginning to feel like she wished to never see him again. "Marriage wasn’t what I had in mind, Angel. I’ve been through it once already. I know what it can do to lovers. I won’t go through that again." Angel pulled the blankets with her and stood. "So, helpin' my family and allowin' me to stay here is my pay?" She laughed hysterically. She was no better than Lilly who gave her favors to any man who had enough money to support her. The laughter broke into sobs. "It wasn’t like that." He said, walking closer. She felt his hand touch her hair and pulled away. "It was exactly like that. You want me to be your whore!" "Angel--" "Get the hell out of here, Reid Spencer," she said, barely able to see through her tears. The muscles in Reid's jaw flexed. "You need to calm down and then we’ll talk. I’ll go out to the waterfall and wait for you." When the door slammed behind him, she burst into tears and threw herself on the bed. The time with Reid was like a dream. Even more disturbing was that he hadn't deceived her at all...she had deceived herself. He had never told her he loved her. Never once did he say he would marry her. Yet, she had assumed he would and practically seduced him. The thoughts pounded through her head until she cried out, the bitterness chilling her heart. What a fool she was. He took her love and her innocence and she gave it to him without hesitation. She had loved him beyond salvation...beyond all thought. She slammed her hand into the pillow as she thought of all the could have beens...the should have beens. Angel sat up in the bed, drying her tears on the quilt. She would do what she had always done when faced with pain. She would overcome it, move on with her life and forget about Reid. She thought about their night together and frowned in shame. She would never regret her decision to give herself to him, but she wished it would have been on better terms. She loved him, but he didn’t feel the same way about her or he would marry her. The door slowly inched open, creaking inch by inch. She gritted her teeth. "I told you to leave me the hell alone, Reid Spencer." When Duke and Lee walked into the cabin, her carefully held restraint broke. She looked through her tears at her brothers who appeared to be in good health. She’d missed them and their return comforted her. She would leave. She had no other choice.

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Duke sprang forward and knelt on the floor. "Did he hurt you? God help me if he did." Angel dabbed at her tears. "He didn’t hurt me," she whispered, knowing that her words were a lie. Lee took her hand and kissed it with tender affection. "Did he--" She shook her head. "I did it. I seduced him, and now I might be with child." Duke wiped away her tears and forced her to look at him. "If that is true, then I’ll be an uncle," he grinned. "I’ll take care of you, Angel. I always will." She had feared his disappointment, but the tender expression of love in his eyes wasn’t what she had expected. She reached forward and touched his face. "Take me away from here, Duke. Take me far, far away." *** Reid slowly opened the door to the cabin, the hinges creaking as he walked into the room. The silence that greeted him confirmed his thoughts. She had left him. The knowledge knifed his heart until he had to squeeze his eyes shut to keep the tears from surfacing. When he had controlled his emotions, his gaze swept over the room and rested on a piece of paper lying on the table. With a shaky hand, he reached over and picked it up. As he read, his heart twisted with the loss. Reid, I’m safe. Do not follow or try to find me. You’ve made it clear what you wish to happen, and I could not bear it. Angel. Reid crumpled the piece of paper in his hand. Then regretting it, he smoothed it out on the table and stared at the scrawled handwriting. She had left him. I was just wonderin’ if it would be this...heavenly after we're married. Long ago he made an oath to never marry again. He made that promise to himself before Angel ever came into his life. This didn't have anything to do with her. He simply couldn't marry again. She would turn on him eventually, and he couldn't bear to see the hate and anger in her eyes. He read her letter again, punishing himself with the cruelty of his loss. She was gone. The loneliness stripped his heart of any happiness it ever contained. He slammed his hand down on the table and sank into the chair, his determination seeping from his body. She had become a part of him. He could feel her inside of his soul. How could he go on without her in his life? He glanced around the cabin, the silence overwhelming the room. Would she return to her life as the outlaw? He wouldn't stand for it. She would get

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herself killed and God help him if he ever heard of her death. Reid crumpled the paper in his hand and gritted his teeth in denial. Damn it, he wouldn't let her do this. He would find her and make her see the error of her ways. This was the coward's way out and she was not a coward.

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Chapter Thirteen Angel knew it wasn’t wise for a woman to walk alone along the bustling streets of Helena, but she didn’t care. She wanted to have her jewelry appraised and sold for a good price. Everything else could go to hell for all she cared. Three weeks had passed since she had left Reid, and the ache in her heart hadn’t relented as her brothers had promised. She only missed him more and found herself haunted my nightly dreams. When she finally fell asleep at night, dreams of making love with Reid pounded through her mind and prevented her from forgetting him. He had stolen her heart, and she wondered if she would ever get it back. She lifted her cotton skirt and stepped down from the planked steps that ran along the front of the shops in the town. She heard someone holler at her and scrambled back as a man in a wagon went barreling down the street, just missing her. Damn miners, she thought to herself. They think no one else has anything to do and act as if they own the whole damn road. The clink of the ironsmith and hundreds of voices screaming at one merchant or another made her head pound. She pressed her hand to her temple and tried to ease the pain. Angel saw a break in the wagons and lifted her skirt. She bolted across the road until she was safely on the other side. Smoothing her hair out of her eyes and back into her chignon, she headed for the jeweler's shop. Her reticule was a heavy nuisance on her wrist, and she looked forward to selling the jewels. The men walking down the length of the street whistled at her as she passed. She ignored them and stopped before Smith’s Jewelers. They were usually generous in their appraisals, and she needed all the money she could get for the jewels or they would have to go on another robbery. She pushed the door open and heard a tiny bell suspended over the entry way alert the owner of her arrival. The wooden floors creaked as she moved into the tiny room. Her gaze swept over the glass cases and sparkling gems displayed inside. A balding man, probably in his forties, rushed out from the back, a bright and hopeful smile lighting his wrinkled features. "May I help you, miss?" "Is Sam workin’ today?" she asked, wanting only to deal with the owner. The man’s smile instantly faded. "I’ll see if he’s still here."

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When the man left her, she looked through the glass cases for any resemblance to the jewels she needed to sell. A diamond necklace much like the one she brought had a fairly expensive price tag. She hoped Sam would be just as generous. God help her. She didn’t want to be Jade Sinclair any longer. "Ah. Miss Jenkins! So good to see you!" Angel had grown accustomed to the name she used with the jewelers and turned to see an elderly man staring at her through his gold rimmed spectacles. "Mr. Smith. I have come to take care of some business." The man nodded and beckoned her closer. "Let’s have a look then." She crossed the room and emptied her reticule on the counter as Mr. Smith searched for his magnifying glass. She watched the man inspect the jewels, then eyed his figures as he scrawled them down in his book. Finally, he glanced up at her with a bright smile. "I’ll give you $650 for the necklace and $150 for the ring." She eyed the necklace, then glared into the man’s eyes to see if he was truly giving her his best offer. The money would be enough to help their mother stay in Colorado but wasn’t enough for much more. They would have to do another robbery to retrieve their gold. She frowned, feeling helpless. "Is that the best you can do?" "It’s the best offer you will find in all of Helena, Miss Jenkins." She knew he spoke the truth. Mr. Smith was the most honest of all the jewelers in Helena. "If you’ll follow me to the bank you’ll have the jewels once I see the money deposited in my account." *** When Reid heard Miss Kelley call his name, he was about to mount his horse and head out of town. Her piercing voice yelled above the noise of the city and grated on his nerves. "Oh, Dr. Spencer! Dr. Spencer! Wait for me!" He rolled his eyes, hoping he could dissuade a lengthy conversation with her. Most would say she was beautiful with her striking blue eyes and golden hair, but every woman he encountered only reminded him of Angel. He turned to the woman and greeted her with a warm smile. "Good afternoon, Miss Kelley. A fine day isn't it?" Miss Kelley halted before him, her breasts heaving with her labored breath. Her cheeks pinkened with a bright blush and she smiled at him. "Dr. Spencer. Will you be attending the social on Friday night?" "I’m afraid not. I’ve just started a practice in town, and I need to get settled. I’m sure you understand." She pouted, her bottom lip swelling, but he didn’t see anything beyond a woman so desperately trying to snatch a man.

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Miss Kelley took his hand. "I will be so...I mean the members of the church will be so disappointed to hear that you won’t be attending. If you change your mind I would be happy to accompany you, Dr. Spencer." Movement over Miss Kelley’s shoulder caught his eyes. A young woman with red hair was shaking Mr. Smith’s hand. He had been in earlier to see the jeweler about selling Alice’s diamond baubles and had received a fair price. Though the woman had her back turned to him, she reminded him of Angel. He hadn’t stopped thinking about her since the day he left the cabin for Helena. He had searched and searched for any sign of her for weeks, but no one seemed to recognize her description. The woman with Mr. Smith turned, allowing the sun to shine over her face. The breath hissed through his teeth. He swallowed hard. When her sapphire gaze met his, his heart skipped a beat. "Dr. Spencer! Are you all right? I’m afraid you’ve turned ashen." He looked down at Miss Kelley and squeezed her hand. "I’m sorry, I’ve just seen someone I haven’t spoken with in ages. Perhaps I will attend the social on Friday. We’ll see. Good day." He ignored the woman’s wounded sniff and crossed the road after Angel. He grabbed her elbow and turned her around. Her eyes brimmed with anger, and she pulled out of his grasp. "I told you not to follow me." He reached forward and pushed a stray strand of red hair out of her eyes. "Hello, Angel." *** Angel crossed her arms over her breasts and blinked back the tears. Her gaze swept over his face, her heart pounding. He had changed since she last saw him. His hair was lighter than she remembered, and he had lost some weight. She swallowed the lump that formed in her throat. She had missed him. He smiled, his dimples deepening. "You knew I wouldn't let you go so easily." She looked down the road, trying to ignore the painful ache in the depths of her soul. She loved him...she loved him still. The realization frightened her. She could push her feelings down all she wanted, but the moment she saw him, they came rushing back to reality. She met his gaze. "Why? Haven't you humiliated me enough? Must you come here and do it again? Have you no shame?" He grinned though his eyes showed the deepest sorrow. "I have more than my share of shame. More than my share." She pulled away from him and hurried down the sidewalk, hoping he

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would not follow. She knew it was a childish attempt to run away from her problems, but it was her last chance. "You can’t run away from me forever." She stopped before Lilly's Parlor and Saloon and whirled on him. "I'm going to walk away from you and never look back. Please, leave me be." Reid's expression changed from one of pain to one of disbelief as he stared up at the sign above Lilly's Parlor. When he glanced back to her, she shivered under his icy perusal. "Do you live here?" She nodded, realizing what her confession meant to Reid. She didn't care. She wanted him as far away from her as possible. He meant everything that frightened her. He meant uncertainty. He signified her dreams. She knew her actions were those of a coward, but she wanted to be more than his mistress. She wanted his children, his life, and his love. Never once had he told her he loved her. Never once. She dug her nails into her palms to keep the tears at bay. He sighed and pushed his hand through his hair, a single lock falling over his brow. Her fingers itched to swipe it away, but she didn’t dare. She clasped her hands together and stared into Reid’s eyes. He inhaled deeply. "I could never have helped you, could I? Money means too much to you." "My family means too much to me." He nodded, his head turning to stare through the doors of Lilly’s Parlor and Saloon. As if on cue, a boisterous laugh floated through the doors. She saw him cringe. "I could have given you so much more than this! Do you think any of those men will give you what I could? They don’t want you for anything but--" Anger overwhelmed her, her heart bursting behind her ribcage. "Mr. Spencer I recall that’s all you wanted as well. A quick roll in the hay every now and then for pay. You are no better then those men you so easily condemn!" "You are dead wrong. I wanted more. I wanted much more." Reid backed away from her. "Good day, Miss Walker. If you ever need a doctor’s services I’ve set up a practice down the road." Just before he turned, she saw tears glistening in his eyes. She blinked, once, twice. Surely, she was mistaken. She stood on the walkway as the patrons hurried past her, watching the man she loved disappear behind a building. With a sob, she bolted up the stairs and into the darkened room of Lilly’s Parlor. She waited a moment until her eyes adjusted, afraid that if she plunged through the room she would trip and break her neck. As her eyes adjusted, she caught sight of Lilly rushing toward her, her friend's face creased with worry. Angel shook her head at her friend as a fresh burst of tears sprang forth. Grabbing her skirts, she hurried up the stairs to her bedroom and threw herself

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on the bed, the tears soaking her pillow. A warm hand caressed her back as she cried. Finally, spent, she turned over. Lilly offered her an embroidered handkerchief, and she took it with a grateful smile. Her friend's eyes were bright with tears of sympathy for her. She eased the stray hairs from Angel’s brow with a lotion-softened hand. "You ran into yer Mr. Spencer didn’t you?" "I did," she whispered with a hiccup. Lilly’s painted eyes widened with understanding. "What have you gone and done, Angel Walker? Have you sent him away?" "I didn’t say anything. He just thought... Well, he thought I worked here." Her friend frowned with displeasure. "Oh Angel, you’ve scared him off for good now! Why didn’t you tell him differently?" She squared her shoulders. "I didn’t want him to think differently. If he is not willin’ to make an honest woman of me, then I’ll not have him comin’ around and botherin' me." "You love him don’t you, girl?" Angel gulped down the pain in her heart. "It doesn’t matter. There’s no place in my life for Reid Spencer." Lilly raised a brow. "I know you better than anyone. You wish there was. Don’t you?" She glanced into Lilly’s blue eyes, a tear sliding down her cheeks and nodded. "But I am the first to know wishes don’t come true." *** Reid swung the doors of the saloon open, the hinges squeaking in protest. He walked into the dimly lit room and glanced toward the bar. The talk slowly hushed to a dead quiet as he became the object of everyone’s scrutiny. He could hear the whispers but was too far away to hear what the men were saying. Finally, a man sitting at the bar nudged the bartender. "Who that be, Sam?" He crossed the room and sat at the opposite end of the bar. The bartender rubbed his salt and pepper whiskers and leveled watery eyes on him. "I’m thinkin’ that be the new doctor. Think they said his name's Reid Spencer." The man slammed the shot glass down on the scratched bar with an audible thunk. "Get the man a whiskey, Sam. I have some business to take care of with him." Reid heard the threatening tone in the man’s voice and knew a fight was brewing. He couldn’t recall seeing the man ever in his lifetime and wondered at the hostility in the stranger's voice.

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He watched Sam hand the man a shot of whiskey. The stranger nodded at Reid and motioned for him to a table in the corner of the saloon. With a raised brow, Reid stood and followed the man. He sat in one of the chairs and regarded the man with a cold stare. The stranger leaned forward and extended his hand. "Name’s Duke Walker. I think you know my sister." Reid ignored his outstretched hand and carefully concealed his surprise. "I know of her." Duke's fist came down on the table causing the glasses to topple and fall to the floor. "Know her? I think you more than know her!" He grimaced. "Have it your way. She gave me her favors if that’s what you are hinting at," He said, tiring of the games Duke was playing. He watched Duke spring forward and grab the collar of his shirt. "If it weren’t for my sister’s protests you wouldn’t be alive to enjoy that there whiskey, Dr. Spencer." He rolled his eyes. "Do you go on like this with all of her clients. I can’t imagine she would make much money with your interference." Duke pushed him back in the chair, a confused look crossing his features. "What the hell are you talkin’ about?" Reid frowned, allowing his mask to slip for an instant. "I find it hard to believe you wouldn’t know she was handing out her favors at Lilly’s Parlor." He watched Duke’s face turn to one of surprise, then one of amusement. The man threw his head back and laughed. "Is that what she told you?" "I didn’t have any reason to doubt her," he said speculatively. "Her closest friend owns the place, but Angel isn’t one of Lilly’s ladies. I would skin her alive if I found out she ever...had a client." Reid sat back in a stunned silence. She’d lied to him. He thought about it a moment and changed his mind. No, she hadn’t lied to him. When he had jumped to conclusions, she simply hadn't corrected him. Why was she trying so hard to keep him out of her life? "You care about her don’t you?" Reid narrowed his eyes at Duke. "That isn’t any of your business." Duke jerked his head in the direction of the saloon. "You haven’t been around here for years, Spencer and these men don’t take kindly to strangers. All I would have to say was that you were causin’ me trouble, and you would be as good as dead. Now, I asked you a question about my sister. Do you care for her or not?" He glanced around the room, noticing each man in their turn frowned at him, ready to pounce if trouble ensued. He wasn’t stupid. Duke was right. "I care for her, yes," he growled. He watched Duke lean back to raise a hand to the bartender. "A whiskey for me and my friend here."

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Duke leaned forward. "She seems to think you don’t give a fig about her." He frowned. "Why are you tellin’ me this?" "Because I haven’t seen my sister this upset since we came here three years ago and it’s all because of you. If you don’t fix it with her, I might be forced to make sure you don’t cause her anymore pain. Am I understood?" "I don’t take kindly to threats." Duke sat back. "It’s not a threat. It’s advice you would best consider." "Advice taken." The bartender set down two shot glasses of whiskey. Duke tilted the glass to him and gulped it down. Reid followed suit. *** Angel awoke from the dream to find herself lying in blankets soaked with her perspiration. She took a deep breath and threw the clinging sheets from her body. Rising from the bed, she gathered her hair in her hands and let it flow behind her back before she padded across the room to the window. She struggled with the latch, then sighed as it came open to allow the midnight air inside to cool her heated face. She rested her head against the glass and closed her eyes. She could still feel the Reid from her dreams touching her, coaxing moans from her in her deepest sleep. When he showed her the ways between a man and a woman, he laid claim over her body. She didn't have control over her dreams, and it was obvious whom her inner longings desired. She raised her head and stared at the street below her window. A customer of Lilly’s stepped outside, put his hat on and hurried down the road, his happy whistle echoing through the night. The piano downstairs pounded out an invigorating song, and she found herself tapping her foot to the beat. A woman’s laughter swept down the street, causing Angel to smile. The ramblings of the town at night were the only thing that could soothe her back to sleep. "Angel," came a raspy whisper from down below. She leaned out the window and looked across the road. A shadow moved along the sidewalk and into the moonlight. The sight of the dark hair, expectant green eyes and dimples caused her body to tingle. She gasped and covered her breasts with her arms. "What are you doing here?" she hissed. He smiled, pushing his hands into his pockets. "Waiting for you." "If you don’t leave me alone I’ll have you arrested!" Angel huffed. "I’m guessing you are awake at this hour for the same reason I am.

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Couldn’t sleep?" "That’s none of your business." "Let me come up." She leaned forward and slammed her hands against the windowsill. "No! Leave me alone, Reid!" "I’m coming up." "No!" Her words were unheeded. He crossed the road and disappeared behind the saloon. Angel whirled away from the window, her eyes darting around the room. In moments he would be next to her, talking to her, smiling at her. How could she bear it? She glanced down at her nightgown, realizing the light from the street made the thin material translucent. She rushed and threw on a robe to cover herself. Running her hand through her hair, she jumped as a knock sounded on her door. She took a deep breath and opened it, the hinges squeaking until she thought Lilly would come running down the hall to check on her. With a sigh, she let her gaze move up Reid’s body from his black trousers to his white shirt, then met his sparkling green eyes. He smiled. His dimples deepened until her hands ached to trace the familiar lines of his face. "Are you going to stand there all night or will you let me in?" he asked, his eyes darting from her lips to linger momentarily over her breasts. She took a step back and pulled the collar of her robe closed. "You can’t stay long." Reid pushed past her and walked into the room. When she saw him glance to the tangled sheets on her bed, her breath caught in her throat. His back straightened as he turned and raised an eyebrow at her. "Restless night?" She felt a blush spread up her neck. To conceal it, she walked into a shadow where she could watch him without his knowledge. "Why are you here? Did I not make myself clear the other day?" He crossed the room and pulled her into the light. "You made yourself perfectly clear." "Then...why are you here?" He ran his hand through her hair causing shivers to quake up her body. She leaned into his hand as he tucked a few strands behind her ear, his fingers grazing the delicate skin over her collarbone. "To prove a point." Angel detected the soft scent of pine as Reid leaned forward and kissed her neck. He pushed her back until she felt the edge of the bed on the back of her knees and sat down. "Stop..."

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"You don’t want me to stop," Reid whispered just before his mouth crushed hers in a kiss. His tongue delved into her mouth until she couldn’t stop herself from moaning and pressing her body into his. She knew it was wrong to let him take advantage of her in such a way, but her body wasn’t listening to her. She wanted him. She would always want him. She ran her hand through his hair and pulled him closer to deepen the kiss. The immediate shock of cold air on her breasts and stomach told her that Reid had opened her robe. She watched him pull the hem of her nightgown to the top of her breasts. *** Reid ran his hand over her breasts, down her stomach and to the tangle of hair between her legs. He had missed the silkiness of her skin and the sound of her breath as it brushed over his face. He hadn’t intended to seduce her, but when she answered his knock with her hair tangled around her shoulders and in nothing but a robe, he couldn’t help himself. He plunged his finger inside of her. When she cried out with pleasure, he groaned deep in his throat. Desperate to convince her that she still wanted him and needed him, he increased the rhythm of his hand until she clawed at his arm and climaxed, her body trembling beneath him. He tenderly kissed her as her moans died down to soft whimpers. "You want me. Tell me it is so, Angel." "Yes...I want...you." He closed his eyes upon hearing her response. He had longed to hear those words from her lips. When she finally spoke them, he found it bittersweet. He knew she would change her mind and hate him after they made love but he was selfish. He wanted her. He nibbled on her ear. "I want to make love to you." "Yes. I want you too." Reid rolled over and let Angel slip his trousers down his hips. When he was naked, he moved his body over hers and softly tongued her nipple until she cried out his name. Her passionate cry sent shivers down his back and desire through his veins. He wanted to make love to her slowly and bring her body the kind of pleasure she only dreamed about. He wanted this to be a night neither of them would ever forget. He kissed Angel passionately and tasted her sweet mouth as he pushed himself inside of her. He moaned and tried to gain control of his passion before he raced ahead without her. Raining kisses over her shoulders and

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breasts, he moved inside of her. When she cried out his name, he grinned in triumph. She raised her hips to him and met his every thrust, nearly driving him mad with want of her. "Does this feel good?" he asked. "Oh...God...yes," she panted. When Angel grabbed his hips and increased his thrusts, Reid thought he wouldn’t be able to control his desire. She was driving him insane with her vigorous loving, and he didn’t want it to end. How could he ever let this woman go? He ran his hands over her face and kissed her nose and eyelids. She was precious to him, and he wished she wasn’t so stubborn. Groaning as the sensations intensified through his body, he ceased all thought and concentrated on pleasing her. His mouth surrounded Angel’s nipple, feeling it grow taut under his tongue. He felt her arch off the bed and heard her cry out with frustration. As he raised up to kiss her passionately and increase his thrusts, her hands slid over his back and pressed him into a quicker pace. "Woman, you test me. I don’t know...if I can wait." "Don’t wait, Reid." He knew it was too late and plunged into her body over and over again until a wave of pleasure crashed over him. He arched over her and cried out her name, half-aware of Angel’s body trembling with her release. When he finally came floating down, he stared lazily into her eyes. "How was it?" Angel grinned. "It was simply wonderful." A knock came at the door. "Angel?" Reid heard the voice and glanced down into Angel’s sapphire depths. He smiled tenderly, then put his finger over her mouth, hoping she would keep his identity a secret. "Angel? Are you all right? I heard a noise." He saw anger flicker behind her eyes. "I’m fine, Lilly. Just couldn’t sleep." "Dreaming of Reid again? Just lay back and try to sleep, darlin’." Her eyes widened. "I’ll do that, Lilly. Thank you. Goodnight!" As soon as the sound of Lilly’s footsteps diminished, she turned on Reid. "What the hell were you doing, Reid Spencer?" He touched her cheek. "What do you think it was? I think it’s called loving you." "Lovin' me? Ha!" She pressed her hand to her cheeks. "You don’t know how to love. Now get out!" He shook his head, confused. "You wanted it. You can’t deny that." "Get....out!" Angel said.

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Reid rose and adjusted his clothing. He had predicted this reaction from her but it didn't make it any easier on him. "Whether you like it or not, I'm going to spend a lot of time in Helena. You can't run away from me forever." He shut the door behind him and heard Angel's broken cries through the wood. He raised his hand and touched the door, wanting more than anything to comfort her. Instead, he gritted his teeth and bounded down the steps of the parlor. He would give her some time to think over her feelings.

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Chapter Fourteen Reid whistled a lively tune and hurried up the stairs of the general store. He searched the dry goods, tools and yards of fabric lined up on the shelves for the items he needed. A roll of green cotton caught his gaze. He reached out and fingered the material. The color would look remarkable on Angel. With a pleased smile, he tucked it under his arm and headed toward the counter. The tins of spices lining the shelves tormented his empty stomach. He made a mental note to find a cook immediately. A decent meal was exactly what he needed. He thought of Angel’s cooking, his mouth watering. She had been a wonderful cook toward the end, and he missed the light biscuits of heaven. A pang of regret slammed through his heart. No, it wasn’t the biscuits he missed. He missed Angel. She was always on his mind. "Might I help you, Sir?" When Reid heard the familiar voice, he glanced up. "Miss Kelley! You didn’t tell me you lived here." Miss Kelley blushed prettily all the way to the roots of her golden hair. He had to admit that some would say the woman was pretty with her pert nose, dancing blue eyes and colorful cheeks, but she was not Angel. "Please forgive me, Dr. Spencer. I didn’t realize it was you." He set the roll of material on the counter. "Do not fret, Miss Kelley. Is this your parent's store?" She smiled, obviously flattered by his attention. "Yes, I watch it for a couple hours each day to help them out." "If that’s what keeps you out of mischief," he said, grinning. Miss Kelly giggled, her hand coming up to play with a soft curl framing her face. "Can I help you with something?" "Well, I was hoping you could tell me how much of this material a woman would need to make a dress." Miss Kelly’s smile faded, but she quickly recovered and plastered a complacent expression on her face. "Certainly. I’ll cut it for you." "I also need some supplies for the house I bought. I’ll pick those items up in an hour," he said, handing her the list. Reid nodded to Miss Kelley as she walked into the back and let his thoughts wander to Angel. He had forced himself to stay away for a week after they had made love, but he was finding it increasingly harder and harder not to

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see her. He had thought one more night of loving her would be enough to last him a lifetime. He was wrong. He ran his hand through his hair and remembered the intense expression on Angel’s face when he had made love to her. Though she didn't want to admit it, she loved him. He knew that for certain even if she was intent on denying her feelings. He turned to look around the store for the other items he had come to buy and took an indrawn breath. Angel stood just behind him, the anger clearly evident in her eyes. "Angel! I’m surprised to see you." *** "I’m not a hermit, Reid. What did you expect? That I’d hide away, crying my eyes out when you didn’t return?" Angel said, knowing the hostility in her voice was quite obvious. She glared at the green cotton resting on the counter and wondered what woman would receive the lovely material. She pressed her lips together and stared bitterly at Reid. How had she so horribly misjudged him? "Dr. Spencer? I have those supplies my daughter said you needed." She watched Reid turn and nod at the man behind the counter as he walked over to retrieve his packages. She joined him and gave the owner her list of supplies. The man took it and walked into the back of the store. "You’ve become quite a man of society," she said bitterly, eyeing the material on the counter. He shrugged. "You tend to meet people when you are a doctor." She closed her eyes and pushed the venom from her heart. "I always knew you would go back to practicin' medicine. It's what you were meant to do." "Your order is waitin’ up here when yer finished." She heard the owner’s words and nodded. Ignoring the man who walked through the door and gave the owner a hearty greeting, she turned back to Reid. Angel glanced into his green eyes and smiled. She had missed him in the last week and seeing him again hadn't helped matters. Damn it all to hell. She would give anything to have things different between them. "Did you hear about the Sinclair robbery, Frank? They hit a stagecoach a couple of days ago just south of here," the owner told the dark haired man. She froze, her heart pounding in her chest. Her gaze darted to the owner, then back to Reid. What she saw in his expression made her cringe. He was

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furious. The muscles working in his jaw frightened her, and she fought the urge to flee. Reid leaned forward and grasped her arm with a vise-like grip until she yelped from a mixture of pain and fear. Amid the surprised shouts from the owner, he dragged her outside and into the alley next to the store. When he finally let her go, she stared at him, her voice caught in her throat. He squeezed his eyes shut. "Tell me that man was mistaken, Angel. Damn it! Tell me he didn't know what the hell he was talking about." She squared her shoulders. "He spoke the truth. We didn't have a choice one way or the other." "I'm trying to be understanding, but you are making it very difficult. Humor me. Why didn't you have a choice?" "My dearest friend owes money. She was being threatened." She shook her head, knowing he wouldn't understand. "I told you to never rob another stagecoach, and you disobeyed me." She glared at him. "You would have done the same in such a predicament. I don't want to hear this, Reid. You don't own me, and you don't control my life." When he reached forward, she flinched. He frowned and caressed the side of her face. "I would never hurt you. Why didn't ask me for the money? You didn't have to put your life in danger." She stamped her foot on the ground in frustration. A few tendrils of hair came loose from the chignon on the back of her head and blocked her vision. She angrily pushed them aside and glared at him. "I will not take pay from you like a common whore. I will not!" "I’ve never treated you like a whore." She gritted her teeth. "You must not think very highly of me. I am not a fool. You slept with me and now you're offerin' me money. How else would you define a whore? How else?" Unable to bear the sight of him any longer, she lifted her skirts and dashed across the road. She stopped, trembling on the threshold of Lilly's Parlor and glanced over her shoulder. He stared back, tears glittering in his eyes. He looked as though the entire world had fallen on his shoulders. With a tormented sigh, she stepped into the safety of the parlor. *** Reid watched Angel hurry up the stairs and into the safe confines of the parlor with a heavy heart. She was right after all. To anyone else it would look like he was paying a whore for services received. He wished he was capable of giving her more, but he just didn't have anything else inside of him. She needed to understand that and take what he could give her and nothing more.

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He gritted his teeth as the unfamiliar feeling of pure helplessness overwhelmed him. Angel had gone behind his back to rob another stagecoach. The thought sickened him until he slammed his fist into the rails lining the sidewalk. Why wouldn’t she listen to him? Why couldn’t she see what she was doing to herself? She was afraid. The realization hit him hard. Why hadn’t he noticed it before? She was afraid of a different lifestyle because it would require her dependence on something other than herself. How could he convince her it was all right to be dependent on someone you love? "I’m not going to let you go," he said to himself. He crossed the street and headed back to his house. Angel should have settled down with a family years ago. She was twenty-two and some would consider her an old maid who didn’t have a chance at marriage. If she didn’t find a man and marry soon, she would live her life alone. The thought left a sickening feeling in the pit of his stomach. *** Angel opened her eyes and blindly stared into the dark. Something had pulled her from a deep sleep. The silence surrounding her like a warm cocoon didn't offer any answers. She leaned up on her elbow and looked around the room for an intruder. A light scratching sound swept along her door. She bolted up in the bed, her heart pounding. The sound came again, though more persistent. She squeezed her eyes closed. She could stay in the bed until she was paralyzed with fear or she could get up and put her mind to ease. Controlling her emotions, she pushed herself to her feet and crossed the room. The wooden floorboards creaked beneath her, terrorizing the soul from her tired and weary bones. "A-Angel." She stopped, straining to hear the sound again. Had someone called her name? "A-Angel. W-wake up." Thinking the garbled voice was Reid's, she braced her hands on her hips and gritted her teeth. "If that's you Reid Spencer I ain't going to let you in here. Not tonight. Not ever. Not even if you're lyin' out there dyin'. Go find some other whore." "I-Is me. L-Lilly," came the garbled reply. Her arms fell limply to her sides. She rushed to the door, her heart in her throat. She tugged on the latch and found Lilly crumpled in a heap on the floor. Her golden hair was caked with blood and her cheek was a horrible shade of

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purple. With a trembling hand, she reached out to her friend and touched her temple. The tears stung her eyes as fear tightened in her chest. With a strangled cry, she leaned over and helped Lilly into the room. Her friend sat down on the bed, groaned, and started to cough. Angel cringed. Was she coughing on blood? She clenched her fist to her mouth and fought the tears that threatened to spill forth. Trying to take her mind from her troubles, she lit a lamp and turned around. The sight that awaited her turned her stomach. Lilly's once beautiful face was purpled with cuts and bruises. She shook her head. "Oh, Lilly. Oh, Lilly, no." Her friend held her hand out to her. "Come to me," she said, barely forming the words with her swollen lips. Without hesitation, she hurried into Lilly's arms. "Damn it, where the hell was Adam. He is supposed to protect you.""I couldn't pay him, love. He'll be back in a week." Desperate to do something to help her friend, Angel brought a pitcher of water and a washcloth back to the bed. Gently, she washed the blood from Lilly's face. She shook her head. "Why do men feel beatin' up on a woman is justified. Who did this to you? Who?" "Sheila had a man tonight that was beatin’ her. I stuck my nose in where it doesn't belong. It’s my fault." She ran her hand over Lilly’s head and found a large bump. "I have to get you help. These wounds are serious." Lilly took her hand, a deceptive glint in her eyes. "I want to go to Reid. Take me to him." Slowly, Angel shook her head. "Lilly, I--" Her friend grasped her hand. "Please. For me." She plumped the pillow behind Lilly's back and kissed her cheek. "I'll do as you ask. Lie back and rest while I hitch up the wagon." *** Reid awoke to a persistent pounding on his door. He jumped out of bed and fumbled with his trousers in the dark. When his foot missed the pant leg, he mumbled a few obscenities and threw on a shirt. He flew down the steps, missing two in his haste, and stumbled into the foyer. No one would come to him at that hour unless something horrible had happened. Trying to catch his breath, he jerked open the front door. The sight that greeted him caused the air to catch in his throat. As he stared at Angel, a lovely vision with her hair floating around her shoulders and tears glittering in her eyes, hope flickered through his soul.

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"Angel...is something wrong?" She stuck her nose in the air. "My friend needs immediate attention. She asked for you." Her icy words doused the spark of longing burning in his veins. He reached forward and helped the woman standing next to Angel into the room, trying not to let his personal feelings get in the way of his professionalism. Once he helped the woman into a chair, he lifted her chin and inspected her wounds. When he saw the cuts and bruises on her face, he grimaced and shook his head. Even the most skilled physician couldn't prevent the scars. "It ain't that bad is it, Reid?" The woman squinted in the light, then flinched with pain. He recognized her unique blue eyes and lifted her into his arms. "Oh Lilly, not again." He walked to the staircase, then turned back to Angel. "My doctor bag is in the parlor. Please bring it upstairs." He took the steps two at a time and brought Lilly to one of the rooms he saved for his patients. When he tucked her in, a soft hand on his arm prevented him from leaving to search for his supplies. He glanced down into her kind eyes. "I just want to tell you one thing, Reid. Somethin’ I shoulda said a couple weeks ago." He frowned and sat down next to her. "What is it?" "She loves you. No matter what she says never believe differently. That girl loves you even if her stubborn pride won't let her admit it." He touched Lilly's face and pushed her hair behind her ears. He found her words oddly comforting. "Thank you for confiding in me. Now, let’s get you fixed up." *** Angel watched Reid work over Lilly with an awed sort of innocence. A single tear slid down her cheek as he stitched the cut on her friend's jaw with steady hands. She squeezed her eyes shut and blocked the image from her mind. This was where he belonged. In this profession, in this town, in this life. A lump rose in her throat. He belonged there, and she didn't. She turned away and watched several drops of rain patter against the window. The ache in her heart swelled until tears blurred her vision and flowed down her cheeks. "Angel?" Her breath hissed through her teeth as she dashed her tears away. Swallowing hard, she faced Reid. He searched her expression and frowned. She glanced away, hoping he couldn't see the tears glittering in her eyes.

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"We need to discuss Lilly's condition. Please join me in the hallway." She followed him and shut the door behind her. "Will she be all right?" He shook his head. "I think she may have some lasting scars. She has been beaten too many times and must leave her profession." "She won't. Those girls are like the children she never had. She feels obligated to protect them." "Then she'll give up her life. One more blow to the head like the one she received tonight, and she won't survive. It's a foolish profession. I'm sure you understand that more than anyone." The anger flashed through her. "You wouldn't feel like a man if you weren't jabbin’ me with that tongue of yours." "I’m trying to get you to see reason." She gritted her teeth. "I've had to fend for myself in the worst ways. Don't treat me like a child who doesn't know anythin'." He shook his head. "No. Lilly had to fend for herself in the worst of ways. She had to sell her body. You are pretty fortunate. You still have your pride." "Don't think you know me because you don't. Don't talk to me of loss. I've lost everythin' I hold dear." Reid took her face in his hands, his expression tender and concerned. "I could give you everything. You could have those dreams again." "Only with your conditions. You won't even marry me." His expression softened. "It’s not that I won't marry you. I don’t want to marry anyone. You’ve never seen what married life can do to a person. You haven’t." "Oh no? My father ran out on my mother and died beneath some whore. I've seen the hardships of marriage. It would be different between us." "Time would change our feelings. Eventually, we would grow to hate one another." Angel tried to pull out of his grasp, but he wouldn't let her go. She stared into his eyes, aware of the tears slipping down her face. Why couldn't he understand? He pulled her into his arms and wiped her tears away. "Don’t cry. Please don’t cry." She let him kiss her and circled her arms around his neck. She would only allow his touch this once. A niggling thought ran through her mind. When would it stop? Would she always need his touch? She pulled out of his arms. "If you care for me at all, you won’t do that ever again. I can’t torture myself with someone who doesn’t find me fit enough to marry. Just leave me be."

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She turned and walked down the steps. "I’ll be back tomorrow to see Lilly." *** Reid sighed and ran his hand through his hair. He couldn't hope she would return his affections unless he could offer her marriage. She was a respectable woman, and he should treat her as such. There was only one thing he could do to right the injustice he had dealt Angel. He would stop pursuing her. He had a slim window of opportunity to do the right thing and he would do it. Whatever the cost. However painful. The thought tore into his heart, startling him with the extent of his pain. So simple and so profound. He loved her. He loved her for her stubborn streaks and for the tender look in her eyes whenever she glanced at him. He loved her for her generosity and for the softness of her heart. Damn it all to hell. This was going to make his plans of finding her a husband difficult. Excruciating, he decided, was a more appropriate word. He wanted so much to believe it could be different between them but knew better. Lasting love was a delicacy only a few fortunate people knew, and he was never a lucky man. He would let her go. No matter how much it would hurt him. He would let her go. She deserved so much more than he could give. She deserved the moon and the stars. All of which, he could not purchase or steal. He turned and walked into his house to check on Lilly, his heart heavy with his realization. *** Reid gazed around his parlor and ran his hand through his hair, feeling overwhelmed. He didn’t have any idea how to find a husband for Angel. How did one approach such things? And why had it seemed like such a simple prospect just the night before? Surely, there were plenty of men who would jump at the chance to marry Angel. Perhaps, that was the problem. His shoulders slumped, and he leaned his elbows on his knees and his head in his hands. He didn’t want to do this. There was still a part of his heart that leapt forward to claim her for himself. How could he see her marry someone else knowing that she would make love with him, bear his children, and probably grow to love the man. He jumped up from his chair and paced the room. No, he couldn’t allow himself to think in such a way or he would never do right by her. She deserved better than he could offer.

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Mrs. Cook walked into the room, her shoes clapping across the hard wood floor. "Breakfast is ready, Dr. Spencer. Your first appointment isn’t until eleven." "Might I ask you a question?" he asked, stopping the housekeeper from leaving the room. She pivoted, her steely gaze quizzical. "You may." "If I wanted to find a suitable husband for a friend, how would I go about finding such a man?" The housekeeper’s eyebrows shot up, arching highly. "Pardon me?" He sighed, growing impatient. "I said—" "Yes, yes. I heard what you said. Forgive me for my surprise. I just didn’t picture you as the guardian type of man. I suppose it depends on the woman’s breeding and those eligible for marriage." "And once all of that has been taken into consideration, can I approach those elected bachelors?" "Certainly not! You must simply introduce your friend to them and let their romance take it’s own course. It isn’t proper to approach a bachelor in such a way." Reid’s stomach tightened. "That could take months. I couldn’t possibly wait that long. She has to marry immediately or I won’t be responsible—" "Dr. Spencer. What is your motive in marrying off this poor friend of yours? I should say that I pity the poor girl." "You’re quite right. That simply wouldn’t do. I want her to be happy." Mrs. Cook nodded in agreement. "However, if she happens to be acquainted with the gentleman and that prospective beau has amorous intentions, things will speed along on their own. I must say though, Dr. Spencer, I find it most intriguing that you are playing matchmaker. Perhaps, you are more soft-hearted than I had first presumed." The grin spread on his face of its own accord. "In certain countries, knowing secrets like that could get you killed." Her face brightened with a smile. "And a sense of humor too! Who would have known. This girl would be wise to snare you instead, Dr. Spencer." He frowned, wondering whether to confide in the housekeeper. Finally, he nodded. "She already has all I can give her and it’s not enough." "A pity. Well then, do you have someone in mind for her?" The only man who would ever be good enough. The only one who would give her what she needed most…what he himself could not. "Yes, I do. Ethan Parker is his name," he said, forcing the words from his tongue. ***

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Angel shielded her eyes from the sun and glanced at the front of Reid's house. It was quite beautiful with large windows, an oak door and a large front porch. She took a deep breath, the heat of the afternoon making the air thick and clammy. Smoothing the front of her cotton dress, she reached forward and knocked on the door with a trembling hand. When she heard footsteps clicking across the floor inside, she pushed a few strands of hair back into her chignon and tried to calm her pounding heart. What would she say to him? What would he say to her? She considered leaving, but the door flew open and prevented her escape. She glanced up into Reid's cold, green eyes and frowned. Where was her greeting and bright smile? She stepped forward and held out her hand. "Good afternoon, Dr. Spencer. I’ve come to see Lilly." He leveled an icy stare at her that seemed to cut right through her soul. "Good morning. I was hoping to see you today. I have someone who would like to see you. Step into the parlor and I’ll return in a moment." She walked into the parlor and smiled at the simple decorations. Lace curtains, a few old pieces of furniture and a wool rug adorned the room. Reid wasn't a man who liked pretty things that only sat around collecting dust. He was a practical man. Angel's gaze settled on the rocking chair in the corner of the room. Her heart skipped a beat, wiping the smile from her lips. The chair had come from the cabin. Did it mean he had sold his land? Her heart twisted with pain. Knowing the cabin would always remain in the mountains as a symbol of her love, had comforted her. They had made love in the main room, laughed together at the table, and cooked meals over the oven. Maybe none of that meant anything to him. Perhaps, he really didn't care for her. Angel turned and glanced into Reid's indifferent gaze as he walked back into the room. "Did you sell the cabin?" Pain burst through the green of his eyes before they returned to stone. "Yes, I did." She nodded, her heart sinking. Whatever they had was dead. He didn't care about her anymore. "Then take me to Lilly." Angel caught the sight of someone standing in the door and turned. "Ethan!" He walked into the room and kissed her cheek. "How are you, little one?" "I’ve been better. What brings you to town?" she said smiling into his kind gray eyes. They had a special bond and it reached all the way into her soul. "Reid’s invitation. I think he has ulterior motives but have yet to find out what they are."

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Angel’s gaze darted to Reid’s. He looked away guiltily. "I think I agree with you." Ethan sat in one of the chairs and rested his elbows on his knees. "So what is it, Reid? Why have you asked me to come?" He looked toward Angel. "Or why have you asked us to come?" Reid’s expression changed to one of anger. "You are quite fond of each other. I thought it was time for you to meet again." Angel met Ethan’s gaze and saw he mirrored her confusion by the telltale frown on his face. She sat down next to him and looked up at Reid. "What exactly are you gettin' at?" "It’s simple, actually. I think you both should start courtin’. Each other." Angel’s mouth dropped open. "What?" Ethan growled next to her. "And here I’d always thought you were an intelligent man. I wouldn’t ever marry Angel." She gasped and elbowed him in the ribs. "And why not? I’m not ugly and I cook rather well." She heard Reid clear his throat and glanced up, noticing the slight grin on his face. "You disagree? Well, I make tasty biscuits. Will you disagree with that also?" "No, I’ll agree with you on that one. I’ve missed your cooking these last few months." An ache started in the center of her chest, spreading. He missed her cooking. He did not miss her. She turned back to Ethan, her pride wounded. "Why don’t you think I would make a good wife?" Ethan rubbed his side where she’d elbowed him. "Not for me. There’s just somethin’ about you bein’ in love with someone else that doesn’t sit well with me." She nodded and looked down at her lap. She wouldn’t make a good wife for anyone but Reid. He was the one she loved and any other man would fall short. Ethan was right. Until she found a way to stop loving Reid, she wouldn’t consider a life with another man. However, she knew exactly what Reid was trying to do by forcing them together. Not only was he trying to ease his guilt, but he was also trying to push his responsibility for her on someone else. He’d convinced himself that he didn’t want her any longer and was proving it. She felt numb, as though she was looking at the world through a glass window and couldn’t figure out how to get to the other side. She bit her lip and regarded Reid. "I don’t need you to find me a husband. I’m sure I could find one all by myself if I was of a mind to. But, I’m not. I’m perfectly happy just as I am. Now, if you would be so kind as to lead me to Lilly’s room, I will see to her and be on my way."

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Just as she was following Reid out of the parlor, she turned back to Ethan. "If you are visiting in town for awhile stop out at our ranch and I’ll make you dinner." He nodded, his eyes clouded with sadness. "I would be a fool to miss it." Angel walked into her friend's room and offered Lilly the brightest smile she could muster. Her friend looked from Reid back to her. "Angel? Is everythin' all right?" She frowned at Reid. "I’d like to be alone with her if you don’t mind." He nodded and quickly left the room. "Angel what in damnation is going on with you two? Reid ain’t been to happy since you shot out of here last night." She stared down at her hands. "He doesn't want me anymore. He sold the cabin and has made it perfectly clear." "Oh, Angel. I’m sure he does--" "He doesn’t." "Well, what did the man say?" She frowned. "He said he doesn’t want to marry me, and in my book that’s plain enough." Lilly laughed, then grimaced in pain. "All men say that a time or two. Give him a little while to warm up to the idea. Don’t know why, but men are as scared of marriage as a rabbit caught in a trap. Seems they think love will disappear with that piece of paper." "He isn't going to marry anyone. He said so himself, and I’m not about to sit around waitin’ for him to change his mind. I just need a little more time to stop lovin’ him." Lilly smiled knowingly. "That may take a little longer then you’re spectin’." She eyed her friend. "Well, I've made up my mind too. We're robbin' another stagecoach tomorrow and that's it for me. I'm going to leave this town behind and start a new life somewhere on my own." Somewhere far away from Reid Spencer.

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Chapter Fifteen Angel slammed the stagecoach door and handed a nugget of gold back to Duke. She wiped a spot of perspiration from her brow with the back of her hand and watched the stagecoach speed down the road. "This is the last one, Duke. These nuggets will give us a start at a normal life." He nodded. "I'm lookin' forward to the change. Let's get out of here." She mounted her horse and paused to glance at the mountains in the distance. The warm sun was just beginning to slip behind the jagged peaks and night would soon cool the land. She sighed with relief, barely able to breathe in the extreme heat. Realizing she had dallied too long, she kicked her horse into a gallop and took off after her brothers. The cool breeze rushed over her face and loosened her hat. She reached up and pushed it back on with a whoop of excitement. It was finally over. She was her own person again. She heard shots in the distance and twisted in her saddle, a finger of dread tickling her spine. She expected to find the Hunt gang on their tail but saw only two riders barreling after them. She ducked as more bullets flew overhead and tried to get a good look at the men. A silver star pinned to one of the men's shirts glistened in the sun. Her heart pounded in her chest. She whipped around and stared straight ahead. Not now, dear Lord. Not now. "Ride! Damn you! Ride!" The words floated to her on the wind. She blinked and glanced ahead. Her brothers had stopped in their tracks and beckoned her on with fear in their expressions. That fear touched something deep inside of her. She wasn't going to give in that easily. She would fight, and she would fight hard. Determination coiled inside of her as she raced after her brothers, trying to catch up. They glanced back with a look that told her she had better hurry. Her horse grunted and teetered to a stop. Horrified, Angel reached forward and tried to figure out what was wrong with the mare. She screamed as the horse stumbled and dropped out from beneath her. When she landed in the dirt a few feet away, the air rushed out of her lungs. Fearing her brother's would come back to help her, she sucked in huge gulps of air and sat up. Her horse was laying a few feet away from her with a bullet hole in its

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side. She crawled to it and caressed its muzzle with her face. It moaned, causing tears to stream down her cheeks. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry." Angel stood and pulled her Colt out of her holster. She pointed the gun at her horse, the tip wavering as sobs wracked her body. Through a veil of tears, she managed still her hands and pulled the trigger. The mare grunted, then died. She glanced ahead and saw her brothers circle back in her direction. The two riders were closing in on her, and she knew her brothers would never reach her in time. She threw her hands up in the air. "Go! I'll be all right." She saw Duke hesitate and glance at Lee. "Go!" she screamed, hoping they could hear her at such a distance. She waved them on with her hands, tears of frustration running down her cheeks. "Go!" When her brother's turned and rode off into the forest, she collapsed on the ground and cried tears of relief. At least they would be safe. When the riders pulled their horses to a halt and dismounted, she faced them with courage. She knew they had every right to shoot her dead on the spot, and it frightened her. If this was the day she would die, then she would die with dignity. She pulled her silk mask tight over her eyes. "Howdy, boys. Warm day ain't it?" The Sheriff cocked his gun and aimed it at her heart. "Wait till the news spreads, Jed. We've gone and caught ourselves Jade Sinclair. We'll be famous." *** Reid bounded down the steps of the mercantile, his arms laden with packages. He had purchased curtains for every room and the supplies to replenish his doctor's bag would arrive the following day. He wouldn't have to turn patient's away any longer. For the last two weeks, he had made a point to attend the social gatherings and his reputation was growing. Five people had already come to him asking about his services and that morning a young mother had knocked on his door complaining of a stomachache. He would make it in Helena as a doctor. Of that, he had no doubt. He stepped down from the sidewalk, his gaze searching the street for a glimpse of auburn hair. Angel hadn't been in to visit with Lilly all day, and he worried about her. He crossed the street and entered the saloon, anger tightening his jaw. Where the hell was she? A shiver ran down his spine. She wouldn't dare. If she robbed another stagecoach he would kill her. She knew that.

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Reid placed his packages on the bar. "Jake, can you store these back there and give me a whiskey?" The bartender’s cool gray eyes lit up with a smile. "You celebratin’, Reid?" He grinned. "Sure am. You ever have anything ailing you, come over to my practice. I’ll fix you up real good." The man grinned. "I'll be sure to do that." Reid took the shot of whiskey and downed it in one gulp. "Have one yourself. I'm buying." Jake's eyes brightened as he filled a glass and downed it. "Yer my kind of customer." He heard the door in the front of the saloon burst open and turned. A wild eyed boy, probably not more than fifteen, scanned the room. "Jake! They caught her! They gone and caught the outlaw!" Reid's blood ran cold. He set the whiskey glass down on the counter with a thunk and ignored the pounding in his chest. The air whooshed through his ears, and he thought he was going to lose his breakfast. The boy wasn't talking about Angel. He couldn't be. Jake frowned. "Who?" "The lady. Jade Sinclair. They didn’t catch her brothers, but they caught the girl." He swallowed hard and blinked at the bartender. The room grew dark as the boy ran out into the street hollering the news to a passing patron. Pain constricted in Reid's chest. They would hang her without a second thought for her crimes. There had to be some mistake. God, there had to be some mistake. "Well I’ll be. Did you hear that? They caught her!" He pushed the glass back to the bartender, realizing his mouth was suddenly dry. "Another one real quick, Jake. I’m going to need it." He downed the whiskey and stood on shaky legs. His whole body had gone numb with the news and he staggered out into the sunshine. Dazed, he glanced up and down the street. The whole town had ceased their daily routine to gawk as the sheriff pushed his catch through town. He caught a glimpse of midnight colored hair beneath a hat and leaned against the railing. He dug his fingers into his eyelids as tears stung the corners of his eyes. He was going to lose her now. Her past had finally caught up to her, and she would have to pay the consequences. He glanced up and found her walking a few buildings down the street. Even though she wore the disguise of the woman he hated, he knew it was Angel. His Angel. She walked down the street before the Sheriff with her head held high, the expression on her face distant and cold. She appeared to be above all the

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townspeople's rude comments, but he knew differently. Glittering in the depths of her gaze was the most excruciating of pain. His heart ached. He wanted her to draw strength from him. He wanted her to know she wasn't alone. Desperate to help her, he walked down the steps and into the street. He squeezed past an elderly lady and watched Angel pass him. "Jade!" he said, his heart in his throat. He saw her blink in comprehension just before she searched the people on the sidewalk. When she met his gaze, he thought he could see right through her eyes and into her soul. Her pain became his pain. He sensed her fear inside of him and embraced it. For a moment, there was no separation between them. Their spirits had become one. Reid saw the tears forming in the corner of her sapphire eyes and clenched his fist, feeling helpless. Her lips moved and it was a moment before he realized what she had said. "I love you." *** Angel yanked her arm out of the Sheriff's grasp and paused on the threshold of the jail. Bracing herself for the crowd of cold stares and bitter tongues, she met Reid's gaze. He grinned, his eyes brimming with tender devotion. She swallowed the lump that rose in her throat. She could make all the excuses she wanted, but the facts remained. She was miserable without him, and their separation didn't make any sense. Her foolish pride had left her alone in the world, and she grew tired of the solitude. If her brothers found a way to rescue her, she would agree to be Reid's mistress. "Look long and hard, Miss Sinclair. This is the last light of day you’ll see until your hangin'." The sheriff pushed her inside, then forced her to sit in a chair by his desk. Her gaze swept over his face, pausing to stare deep into his eyes. The hate reflected in the brown depths frightened her. The light of God didn't shine through this man's soul. Rather, something sinister burned inside of him. He sighed and lit a cigarette. "You can make this easy, Miss Sinclair. Where are your brothers?" She pursed her lips. "I wouldn't know. They rode off." The Sheriff's hand lashed out and gripped her jaw. "You aren't foolin' me, missy." She pulled away. "I don't have much to hide these days, sheriff." "I suppose you don't." He sat behind his desk and stared at her. "You've become the talk around the territory in the last few months. Your hangin' will make this town

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famous." She raised an eyebrow. "Not to mention the fame it will bring to you." "See that? We already have an understandin'." She glared at him. "You and I will never have an understandin', sheriff. I simply know your type." He leaned forward. "And what type is that?" "I'm afraid you wouldn't find my description fittin' this wonderful vision you have of yourself." He grinned. "Perhaps. Still, I find it odd that you have nothin' to hide. Who are you really, Jade Sinclair?" Her heart pounded. She had to keep her identity a secret. "I think you would benefit from the mystery. Imagine the glory of such an unveilin'." He threw his head back and laughed. When he met her gaze, his eyes were filled with pity. "Silly, silly girl. You still don't understand." "I--" "I know who you are, Angel Walker. I've known all along." Her mouth ran dry. She swallowed hard as fear probed her soul. "How?" "I'm afraid I've been a bad boy. When you reported the thefts in your mines, I kept it a secret." She narrowed her eyes. "What would you possibly have to gain from your silence?" "Everythin'. The gold from your mines has made me a very rich man. That unknown party who hired the Hunt gang is sitting right before you." A tiny thought persisted in the back of her mind. She glared at the sheriff. "And my father? Did you murder him? He raised any eyebrow. "A tragic accident. But I will tell you one thing before you hang. There never was a whore. He loved your mother." His confession chilled her to the bone. "You are a sick man, sheriff. A very sick man." *** Reid rode his horse up to the Walker's cabin and searched the land for any sign of Angel's brothers. The soft breeze cooled him and swept over the grass, stirring the colorful flowers dotting the hills. He closed his eyes for a moment and pictured Angel running through the field of blossoms with a tender smile on her face. The image twisted in his soul. He would sacrifice his right arm to see her that way again. He would offer his life to be the cause of her joy. When a shiver ran down his spine, he knew someone was watching him. He took his hat off, rested it on his saddle horn and dismounted. Gazing at his surroundings, he climbed the steps, opened the front door

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and peered inside. Except for a single chair pushed in the corner, the cabin looked abandoned. Where the hell were they? He couldn't spend all day looking for them. He spun around, determination coiling in his stomach, and hurried down the steps. A rifle leveled between his eyes stopped him cold. "You ain't got no right trespassin' around here, mister," the boy said, his light blue gaze hard and calculating. He eyed the boy's blonde hair and childish features with interest. He didn't look old enough to shave let alone fire a weapon. "I'm looking for Duke Walker. Is this the Walker homestead?" The boy lowered the gun. "Who's askin'?" "Reid Spencer." The rifle sprang back into position. "I should kill you for hurtin' my sister." He frowned as the guilt squeezed his heart. "I'm not the only one who has hurt her." The boy glared at him. "What's that supposed to mean?" "Put the gun down, Lee." Reid searched for the source of the voice and saw Duke walk around the side of the cabin with a piece of straw clamped between his teeth. Angel's brother smiled and held out his hand. "Good to see you again, Reid." He returned the gesture. "Likewise. I think you know why I'm here." Lee stepped forward. "We don't need yer help, Doc. You've gone and made a mess of things as it is." The muscles in Duke's jaw flexed. "Forgive my brother. He's too young to realize his own faults but is quick to judge others for theirs." Reid nodded. "I've come to ask for your help. I have a plan to free Angel, but it won't work without you." He glanced at Lee. "Both of you." Lee raised an eyebrow. "What do you have in mind, Doc?" "The sheriff is hoping to claim the fame for three outlaw hangings and not just one. Fortunate for us, he thinks he can handle the both of you on his own. The jail isn't guarded, and I've heard he intends to sleep there until you make your move. My plan is simple. I say we ride in and take her." Duke nodded his head and smiled, appreciation glinting in his eyes. "You've done yer homework. You know how to use a gun and ride a horse?" "I do." "Then it sounds like we have the makings of a plan." Relief pounded in his chest. "I'll find out which cell she's in and meet you behind Sam's saloon at midnight." ***

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"I will see her, sheriff. The town council will make sure of that," Reid said, his patience wearing thin. The sheriff lit a cigarette and sat back in his chair. "What's yer hurry, Doc? Are you taken with the outlaw?" "I was a passenger on a stagecoach a year back and met up with her during a robbery. She shot and crippled me." The sheriff's face lit up with laughter, then turned serious. "You and everybody else. If I were you I'd do just about anythin' to get that last look at her. Just about anythin'." "You're right, I would." He reached into his pocket and pulled out several bills. Throwing them in the air, he watched the money scatter on the sheriff's desk. "Change your mind any?" The sheriff eyed the bills with interest but shook his head. "I told you. Can't let you see her or I'll have to let the whole damn town through those doors." He threw the entire contents of his pocket on the desk and leaned forward, meeting the sheriff's gaze. "Let me see her." The sheriff blinked twice, his eyes widening. "You walk around with that desperation in yer eyes and every man this side of New York will know you for the fool you are. Yer in love with a woman whose only concern is the amount of metal clinkin' in her purse." Reid bit his tongue to keep from defending Angel. He glared at the sheriff and tried not to let on how deeply the man's words had affected him. A stranger had just recognized his deepest fears. Grumbling, the sheriff gathered the bills and stuffed them in his pocket. "Fifteen minutes." He followed the sheriff through a small, dimly lit hallway to the cells at the back of the jail. His heart pounded in his ears as he searched through the bars of each tiny room as he passed. When his gaze found Angel lying on a cot in the corner of the last cell, his heart twisted with grief. She looked so tiny curled up on the cot with her back facing him. He ran his hand through his hair as the sheriff unlocked the door. He realized he no longer saw the vixen when he looked into Angel's eyes and blinked back the tears stinging his eyelids. His love for her had pushed the hate and anger out of his heart long ago. He loved her more than anything he ever or could ever hold dear. She meant everything. His happiness, his desire, his life. The sheriff ushered him inside. "Don't lay a hand on her or you'll end up in one of those empty cells." He walked into the cell and cringed as a mouse scrambled across the dirt floor. Preparing himself for the sight, he allowed his gaze to settle on Angel.

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He swallowed hard and glanced at the sheriff. "You have my word. I won't harm her." The sheriff eyed him, then nodded. "Fifteen minutes. I'll wait in the office." Reid crossed the room and sat down next to her. Knowing his time was dwindling, he put his hand on her shoulder and gently shook her. "Angel, wake up, love," he whispered, coaxing her awake with the sound of his voice. She turned over and blinked her eyes. She blinked them again, then jumped up in the bed, her sapphire depths filling with tears. "Reid? Oh Reid, I'm so sorry. I'm so s-sorry," she said, her voice cracking. His heart slammed against his ribcage. He would never let her go. Never. He pushed a few stray locks of hair behind her ear. "What could you ever have to be sorry for?" *** A sob choked in Angel's throat. She gulped it down and shook her head, the tears falling to her lap. "I don't suppose I ever really understood what I had until I was about to lose everythin'. I was foolish to take so many things for granted. All I did was push you away." He smiled. "You almost had me convinced there wasn't a place for me in your life. You seemed happy and you acted as though you had a new life...without me." She shook her head. "Never without you. Sometimes your heart lingers awhile when you're trying to plod ahead to a new life," she said, her gaze sweeping over his face. She took his hand and pressed her lips to his fingers. "There is only a few hours left. W-will you hold me one last time?" His finger rested over her lips, silencing her. His gaze delved into hers with so much tenderness and love she could barely keep herself from bursting into tears. "I won't let them hurt you. I won't. I'll die right along with you if they take you from me." "You don't know what you're sayin'." He grinned. "On the contrary. That's how certain I am that you will live. Don't give up, Angel. Where's that fire that I love in you?" She looked at her lap, ashamed. "I don't know anymore." "You know. I can't find it for you, but it's still there. Look hard and look long. You'll find it again. I know you can do wonderful things if you set your mind to it." A small spark lit in her soul. Perhaps he was right. Maybe all wasn't lost. "I love you." Her head dropped back until she stared into his tender gaze. She

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frowned, thinking she had imagined his words. He smiled. "Don't look at me as though I'm a ghost. I know I should have told you my feelings earlier, but I didn't know until recently that I was capable of love." A fierce combination of elation and sadness flowed over her, and she could do nothing to quell the sobs that burst forth. She covered her face with her hands and wept for all the dreams she thought would never come true and had in that very moment. She would be blissfully happy if she wasn't sitting in a cell the day before her hanging. Her life seemed filled with bittersweet endings. She allowed Reid to hold her close and comfort her though the warmth of his body elicited a deeper sorrow. She would never hold him like this again. A spark burst into flame in the recesses of her soul. She turned to look into his eyes, the tears drying on her cheeks. "What did you just say to me?" He laughed, a hearty sound that warmed her heart. "I told you I love you." She frowned. "If you say those words to me, then you better mean them. Don't feel like you owe me anythin' because..." His face brightened with a smile that touched her soul. "I'm tellin' you what I feel. If that isn't what you want to hear, then I'll go find another girl who will enjoy hearing such an endearment." She laughed, forgetting that she had very little time left. "You hadn't better. I'll take as many endearments as you see fit to hand me." The sound of footsteps echoed through the cell. Reid pushed away from Angel and stood. "Three minutes, Dr. Spencer." As soon as the sound of the sheriff's footsteps receded, he returned to Angel's side. "I had to bribe him to see you." She gritted her teeth. "He's an awful man. He's the one who's been stealin' from our mines." The surprise on Reid's face comforted her. He leaned forward and kissed her, his tongue delving inside to dance momentarily with hers. She sighed and circled her arms around his neck, deepening the kiss. With a hearty groan, he pulled away and stared into her eyes. "Sorry. Couldn't resist. " She smiled coyly. "Before you walked out that door I was going to have a kiss from you. Even if I had to make the advances." He chuckled, then turned serious. "The sheriff will be back any moment. We will come for you after midnight. Force yourself to stay awake and remember always that I love you." She frowned. She didn't want any secrets left unsaid between them. "There is somethin' I have to tell you. Now, before it's too late."

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Footsteps sounded down the hall, silencing the confession dangling on the tip of her tongue. Reid stood and moved away from the bed. "You'll have to tell me later tonight when we're alone," he said, winking suggestively. Angel watched him leave, the creek of the cell door grating on her nerves as it slammed shut. She should have blurted out her confession even if she risked the sheriff hearing her. Now, the knowledge weighed heavily on her conscience. He deserved to know that she carried his child inside of her. She should have told him while she had the chance. She ran her fingers over her lips and stared through the bars to a spot on the wall in the next cell. His words, the expression in his eyes, the intimacy in his touches...they all spoke to the deepest needs of her soul. She needed him and he needed her. *** Reid crouched next to a window and hunched in the low shadows surrounding the jail. He watched the sheriff stumble around the room with a satisfied smile. Glancing over his shoulder, he saw Duke and Lee hurry along the alley in his direction. Without a sound, they kneeled in front of him. The whites of their eyes glittered in the moonlight as they searched the street next to the jail. "The sheriff looks like he needs to find a bed," Duke whispered as he pulled out his revolver and checked the bullets. "That he does," Reid said, chuckling. Duke met his gaze. "Let's get our plan straight. I'm going in first to get control of the Sheriff. You and Lee will come in behind me and free Angel. Then we'll get the hell out of here and head back to the cabin." He nodded. "That's the plan. We aren't heroes. We are here for Angel and Angel alone," Reid said, eyeing Lee up in particular. "You ain't got no reason to worry about me. I'll do anythin' to save her," Lee said with a nod. "That’s what I’m afraid of." Duke frowned at Reid. "Don’t worry about him. When it comes to his sister he’s as gentle as a lamb." "Duke," Lee said, the tone in his voice a clear warning. Reid shook his head, immediately noticing the sibling rivalry between the two. He glanced to the barred window again and saw that the Sheriff had nodded off and was resting his head on his arms. "Let's go." Reid whispered, nudging Duke forward. "I wouldn’t count on it," came a voice from the shadows as Reid felt the distinctive cold steel of a gun pressed behind his right ear.

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Chapter Sixteen Duke’s expression hardened into one of pure hatred. "I’ll make you pay for this Johnny Hunt. You’ve been a thorn in my side ever since I first laid eyes on you." Reid swallowed hard. Duke's expression made him a little apprehensive about the man who held a gun to his head. He turned and saw Johnny's cold blue eyes glitter with madness. They had more to deal with than a man set out for revenge. This man wanted nothing less than the excitement of the kill. Whom he meant to harm, Reid couldn’t predict. He watched the outlaw walk around him and squinted in the dark to get a better look. The man’s red hair hung in dirty tangles, and his clothes hung limply on his body as he walked. Reid didn’t fall for the disguise. Johnny was no weakling. Every step he took hinted at a power far beyond physical strength. He had a strength of mind only Lucifer would call his own. Johnny aimed his gun at Duke. "Yer sentiments are touchin’, but a waste of time. Drop your weapons or he’s a dead man." Reid nodded at Lee and threw his gun in the shadows. Lee did the same. Duke glared at Johnny. "Yer fight is with me. Let the others go." The outlaw took a cigarette from his pocket with his free hand and clamped it between his lips. With a grin, he struck a match and lit the rolled tobacco. He inhaled deeply and regarded Duke. "Yer concern is precisely the reason they’re comin’ along. Now get up." "You knew we’d come for her," Duke whispered. Johnny laughed. "I knew. Though I’m surprised it took you so long to attempt the rescue. Now, let’s get that sweet sister of yers. I have plans for her." The outlaw’s lust for Angel was clear in his tone, and it grated on Reid’s nerves just enough to make him itch for a fight. "What do you want with her? Bringing her along will only cause trouble." Johnny glanced at him. "Who’s this? A new addition to your gang?" Duke shook his head at Reid behind Johnny’s back, his gaze filled with warning. "He’s just a friend." Reid gritted his teeth and quelled the instinct to slam his fists into Johnny’s face. Cold steel jabbed between his ribs. The outlaw’s face loomed over his, his breath smelling of old cigarettes and day old whiskey. "Well isn’t that

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nice." Reid resisted the rage burning through his veins and clenched his hands into fists. When the time was right, he would make his move. Johnny aimed his gun at Duke. "Yer friend ain’t very friendly." "He’s the quiet sort." The outlaw nodded, then waved his gun back and forth. "You two head in first, and I’ll follow with our friend here." Johnny’s gun jabbed into his back as he followed Duke and Lee inside the jail. The sheriff jumped out of his chair and eyed up their disguises. "What the hell is goin’ on here?" The gunshot resounded through the room. The bullet entered the sheriff's chest, propelling him backwards. He hit the wall and slid down to the floor, leaving a bloody trail. Johnny replaced his gun with the one in his right holster. "What a shame. Angel's hangin' might have made him a rich man." "You know they’ll hunt you down for murderin’ the sheriff," Duke said. "Ain’t never goin’ to happen. I shot and killed a sheriff in the Kansas Territory, and nobody ever found me." "Don’t count on it," Reid replied. Johnny shoved the tip of his gun into his side. "I’m gettin’ tired of talkin’. Get the keys from the sheriff. No funny moves, or I’ll shoot you clear through." He crossed the room and pulled the keys from the sheriff’s pocket. Not wanting to anger the outlaw until he knew his weaknesses, he held the keys out to him. The tip of Johnny’s gun dug into his back. "Keep ‘em. I want you to greet our Angel since yer such a close friend." He met Duke's gaze and saw his own fear reflected in the man's eyes. Taking the keys, he walked down the hall that led to Angel's cell. If Johnny detected any emotion from her, his jealousy would be the death of them all. He knew that for certain. He would try to warn her but doubted there was anything he could do to prevent her outpouring of love. When the key clicked in the lock, her sapphire gaze connected with his through the bars. He glanced back down the hall and saw that Johnny had remained out of view. Angel would never know he was there or that their lives were in danger. Their fate was out of his hands. He swallowed hard and fought the urge to rush to her side and kiss away the tears that spilled over her cheeks. He stood there for what seemed like hours, memorizing this moment in his mind. He would give his life to save her from harm and would have no trouble in doing so. She would be safe when this day was through. He would make sure of that. Angel rushed forward, her gaze filled with hope. She pulled him into her

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arms and rested her face on his chest. "I knew you would come for me." Thinking only of her safety, Reid gritted his teeth and pushed her away. When the hurt registered in her eyes, he swallowed hard and forced a terse tone to his voice. "Control yourself, woman. I only did this as a favor for your brothers. Don’t flatter yourself." Johnny pushed Duke and Lee into the cell and clapped his hands. "Yer display of affection was touchin’, Angel. If only you’d turn such devotion on a real man." She raised her chin and glared at the outlaw. "I hope you weren’t insinuatin’ yer scrawny hide, Johnny. There isn’t a prostitute anywhere that’d have you between her legs." Reid saw Johnny’s hand strike out and connect with Angel’s cheek, knocking her to the ground. He growled deep in his throat as a fierce protectiveness assailed his heart. He stalked forward only to come to a dead stop when Duke’s hand pressed into his chest. "He’s not worth it. His gang is waiting outside. I saw them," Duke said, his gaze willing him to understand. Johnny raised an eyebrow in his direction. "She had it coming. The only thing that keeps a woman in line is a beatin’. Remember that." Angel stood and faced Johnny, the trickle of blood at the corner of her mouth tormenting Reid. He willed her to be strong and to refrain from antagonizing the outlaw. "It must make you feel good to hit a woman. God knows you couldn’t hit anythin’ stronger," Angel said, her voice filled with wounded pride. Reid cringed. Her insolence was going to get her killed. When he saw Johnny raise his hand to strike her again, he stepped forward and pulled Angel out of the way. "If you touch her again you’ll have to kill me because I’ll find you." Johnny’s hand fell back to his side. "You threatenin’ me?" He narrowed his eyes and prepared for a fight. "I simply stated a fact." Johnny threw his head back and laughed. Finally, the outlaw leveled hostile blue eyes on him. "You must think me a fool." He raised an eyebrow. "Something like that." Reid watched in horror as Johnny pulled Angel to him and slammed his mouth over hers in a brutal kiss. He leapt forward, seeing red, and pulled the outlaw off her. Thinking only of venting his rage, he pounded his fist into Johnny’s face. He heard the distinctive click of the outlaw’s gun and froze, his gaze delving into the man’s wide-eyed madness. He reached for the weapon, but Johnny was too quick. It fired, splintering his crippled leg with a bullet. Through the pain-laced fog that surrounded him, he heard Angel’s horrified scream and knew she thought he was dead. He opened his eyes,

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blinked, and then forced himself to sit up. Johnny’s face loomed above his. "She’ll be mine tonight, and I’ll make you watch. That is, if you’re still alive by then." Reid groaned. "I’d have to be dead." "That can be arranged." Angel rushed forward, worry marring her beautiful features, and knelt next to him. She started to rip off the bottom of her shirt, but Johnny pulled her to her feet. "Leave him be." Her eyes glittered with defiance. "He’s hurt. I will help him." Johnny stared at her for a moment and then pushed her away. "If you must, my love." As she bandaged his leg, he saw her hands tremble and reached forward to caress her cheek. She turned her face into his hand and kissed his palm, the tears glittering in her eyes. "I love you," she whispered quietly. He smiled. "I love you too." "Enough! Outside, all of you. We need to high tail it outta here," Johnny yelled angrily. With a nod, Angel stood and joined her brothers. Reid saw Duke reach forward to wipe one of her tears away and his feelings for the man softened in response. The love he had for his sister was quite evident. He saw Duke whisper something to her. Her gaze met his before she scampered down the hall. Duke looked in his direction. "Keep him busy," he said, mouthing the words behind Johnny’s back. Reid cleared his throat and held up his hand to the outlaw. "Help me up?" Johnny grinned, his gaze cold and hard. "I can’t imagine anyone as purty as Angel going for the likes of you. You’re not even a real man with that useless leg of yours." Reid ignored the pain that swelled in response to the outlaw’s cruel words and accepted Johnny’s help. As he stood, he saw Angel join her brothers with a huge grin on her face. Duke and Lee met his gaze and nodded. *** "You’ll be mine tonight, Angel. You know that don’t you?" Angel stiffened and tried to move away from Johnny, but the motion of the horse they rode prevented it. "I’d rather die first." His hands gripped her waist painfully. She cried out and jabbed her elbow into his ribs. He grunted and yanked her hair back until her neck was an inch from breaking. "It doesn’t have to be like this, you know. I could make

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you happy." When he released her hair, her head snapped up. She took a deep breath and massaged her throat. "You’ve never been happy a day in yer life, Johnny Hunt. What makes you think you can make someone else happy?" "I could try." "You would fail," she said, shaking her head. When Johnny twisted in the saddle to yell orders to his gang, Angel reached forward and traced the hard outline of the sheriff’s gun hidden in her stocking. There had to be some way to use it to her advantage. A shiver raced up her spine. She turned and met Reid’s gaze across the pasture. Her heart pounded in her chest as she saw the tender devotion in his expression. They would get through this. Their unborn child depended on their survival. She raised her hand to her lips and kissed her fingers before letting it fall back to her lap. He returned the gesture and smiled. Angel whipped around as Johnny spurred the horse and galloped through a patch of trees. She saw the outlines of the cabin in the moonlight and shuddered. She was running out of time. She had to think of a plan. Johnny jumped down and pulled her into his arms, grinning maliciously as her breasts pressed into his chest. Resisting the urge to spit in his face, she gritted her teeth and allowed his gaze to rake down her body. As he toyed with her he seemed oblivious to the others standing around the tiny room. The fool. "I’ve been waitin’ for a long time to have you, Angel." She blinked and raised an eyebrow at him. "You’ll be waitin’ forever if I have anythin’ to say about it." He slammed her body into his and ran the barrel of his gun down her cheek. "I’ll take you and you’ll like it. You’ll like it real good." "You may take my body, but you will never take my soul. I will always have that," she said, her voice filled with conviction. "Is that so? Well, you never know what you’re goin’ to do until yer in that situation. Maybe you’ll change yer mind and give me yer soul too." "Never." He pushed her away. "I know what’s going on with you and that new fella. Your smitten with him, ain’t you?" She raised her chin. "I have no idea what yer talkin’ about. He’s a friend of Duke’s." "Yer loyalty to him is touchin’, but I heard the way you talked to him before I came in that cell. You’d best not lie to me." She looked away. "I don’t have any reason to lie." She saw his gloved hand extend to run down her arm. She pulled away. "Don’t touch me." A vise-like grip forced her chin up until she met Johnny’s gaze. "You’ve

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been with him haven’t you!" She pulled out of his grasp. "That’s none of yer damned business." "You have. I can see it in yer eyes." "You don’t know what you’re talkin’ about." He laughed, grabbed her arm and pushed her forward. "I best get you inside. We wouldn’t want yer lover to suspect something." As Johnny pushed her inside the cabin, she realized that the only way to get out of this mess was to get him to trust her. If he thought she was beginning to warm to him, he wouldn’t keep such a close eye on her and she could make her move. She had the perfect weapon for someone like him. She could use his lust against him. The combined scent of mildew and dust permeating the room sent her into a sneezing fit. She wiped the tears from her eyes and searched for Reid. When she saw the blood on his trousers, she cringed and blinked back the tears pricking the corner of her eyes. Johnny never shot for anything but the heart, and when she had heard his gun go off, she thought she had lost Reid forever. Then, while she was preparing to grieve, Reid had grabbed his leg and growled in pain. The relief that pounded through her veins at the sight had made her dizzy and deliriously happy. Now, Reid’s gaze swept over her body with the utmost of concern. She smiled. "I’m fine. Really, I am." A firm hand on her shoulder pulled her backwards until she fell into a chair. Feeling a rope abrade her wrists, she pulled away and looked up into Johnny’s eyes. "I’m not going to do anythin’. I’m just a woman." He laughed. "You just ain’t any woman, Angel. You’re Jade Sinclair, and I would have to guess that right now yer little pea brain is workin’ overtime to figure out a way to save you and your lover. Tie her up," he commanded to the other gang members crowding into the tiny room. Angel met Reid’s gaze and looked for the reassurance he was sure to give. He nodded with approval and smiled tenderly. Her heart slammed against her chest. God, she loved him. Even now her heart swelled with adoration. How did she ever think she could live her life without him? She couldn’t. It was as simple as that. He was her life. She tried to pull her wrists out of the ropes and groaned as the pain swept up her arms. She would rip her skin off the bones if she tried any harder. She glanced around the room. Duke and Reid were tied up together against the wall and Lee was standing off to her left. She blinked in surprise. They hadn’t tied him up! She chuckled to herself. They obviously didn’t think he would cause any trouble because he looked so young. The damn fools. They didn’t know Lee. He raised a brow at her. She wiggled her hands behind her back and

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tried to pull them from the ropes. She gritted her teeth as her wrists stung with pain. It was too tight. She glanced at Reid and Duke. They both shook their heads, anger bright in their gazes. Lee was on his own. "Boy! You never say much? Are you dumb?" Johnny asked, prodding Lee’s shoulder. Angel turned. "Leave him alone. He’s not all there in the head, Johnny." The outlaw grunted and watched the gang members shuffle into the corner for a game of cards. One of the men pushed another as they passed her and knocked over one of the lamps. Johnny sprang into action and stamped out the flame. His face a mask of anger, he turned and slapped the back of the man’s head. "You idiot. You could have started a fire!" Hesitantly, she glanced to Reid and hoped he would forgive her meddling. She knew he wasn’t going to like it one bit. Taking a deep breath, she twisted in her chair. "Johnny? Are you really wanted in Kansas for killin’ two men?" He frowned. "Why do you want to know?" She shrugged her shoulders. She had to get him to trust her and knew she needed to nudge his ego a bit to do so. "I just find it interestin’. Did their eyes get real big when they heard the gun go off? I would have liked to see that!" Johnny grinned, put his foot up on a chair and leaned on his knee. "I didn’t notice. They were getting back on the stagecoach and had their backs to me." She shivered. It was just like him to shoot someone in the back. All he cared for was killing and money. She glanced in Reid’s direction. The furious expression on his face made her cringe. She could tell he wasn’t going to forgive her for this for a very long time. She decided that he would have to get over it. She swallowed hard and continued the ruse. "Those arrogant women who think money makes a person worthy get on my nerves. There’s been several times that I’ve wanted to pump them full of lead." "Killin’ is nothin’ to me now. To take a woman when she ain’t willin’ is a whole different matter. Frank’s sister squealed like a pig when I forced myself on her." She feigned an interested expression on her face and tilted her head. "How fascinatin’. I’ve never killed anyone before. You must feel very powerful when you take a life." She could tell he was buying her lies by the self-satisfied grin on his face. Pumping his pride was working and she hoped she could get to her gun before his ego deflated. "It’s very excitin’. I feel like the Lord with a gun in my hand. Have you

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ever shot anyone?" She swallowed hard as her heart pounded in her ears. She didn’t dare look at Reid, afraid of what she would see in his eyes. "Once." "Now, imagine takin’ that life." Angel swallowed the bile that rose from her stomach. She didn’t like the direction the conversation had taken. Holding a gun did wield a certain amount of power, but she never looked at shooting someone as enjoyable. Killing a person was out of the question. With a sigh, she decided to turn tactics on him. She had to work fast. "Why didn’t you ever approach me if you liked me so much?" "Are you sayin’ you would have accepted my advances?" She grinned shyly and knew she had to play her part without a single flaw. If he saw her flinch or glance in Reid’s direction, it would be over for them. She tilted her head and tried to smile suggestively. "You should have bought me somethin’ nice. I always did like expensive necklaces." He touched her face, and she offered him a giggle of feigned delight. "And would you accept me now?" She raised her head and stared into the repulsive man’s desire-ridden gaze. "Of course." He frowned and glanced to Reid. "What of yer lover." She snickered. "He was only a good diversion to bide the time with." He narrowed his eyes. "Then prove your loyalty to me." "Untie the ropes." Johnny hesitated for a moment, his gaze boring into hers. She smiled prettily until he grinned and bent down to untie her wrists. Glancing at Duke, she saw that he was just as furious as Reid was. They would thank her for this later. She stood and rubbed her fingers along the raw skin at her wrists. As she started to walk toward Johnny, she noticed a piece of glass from the broken lamp laying on the floor at her feet. An idea formed in her mind. She glanced into the outlaw’s eyes, forcing her expression to brighten with warmth. She pretended to trip and kicked the small piece of glass in Reid and Duke’s direction. With a feigned cry, she fell into Johnny’s arms. She righted herself and stared into the outlaw’s eyes. "Pardon me. I didn’t mean to throw myself at you like that." "I like a forward woman on occasion." She grinned. "I’ll have to remember that." Angel leaned forward ever so slowly. Closer. Closer still. Finally, he closed his eyes and puckered his lips. She raised her leg and slipped the gun from her stocking. With a hearty laugh, she jabbed it into his ribs. "You made a big mistake,

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Johnny." His eyes snapped open, revealing a hate so fierce and deep reflected in the blue of his eyes. She shivered. Something evil hid inside the man’s soul. The realization frightened her. He reached forward and grabbed her chin, his fingers boring into her skin. "You’ll regret that." She pulled her head out of his grasp. "And yer a fool, Johnny Hunt. You think with the thing hangin' between yer legs and nothin’ else." He grabbed her wrist and squeezed. She started to lose her hold on the gun. He chuckled. "Shoot it. See what it’s like to kill a man." Angel pressed her finger to the trigger and pulled it. The gun made a small clicking noise but nothing happened. Johnny’s eyes widened, then crinkled with laugher. She shook her head, feeling weak. It was impossible. What sheriff in the whole damn territory walked around without bullets in his gun? This was not good. This was not good at all. Johnny’s hand flashed out and slammed into her face. She saw a bright light explode in her head and fell to the floor, the room spinning around her. She heard voices through a long corridor in her mind and pushed the tip of her tongue into the corner of her mouth, tasting blood. As the fuzz faded from her ears, she heard Reid say her name. "Angel is a woman. Pick on someone your own size," Reid said, the tone of his voice so deep and filled with rage that Angel thought Johnny didn’t have a chance. "How interestin’. You’re tied up and I have the gun. Seems you don’t have a say in what I do or don’t do. Rest assured, lover boy, I won’t beat her again. I want her to be awake when I take her." "If you touch her--" "You’ll what?" Johnny interjected. Angel tried to sit up and cringed as her head pounded, seeming to shake her skull. She blinked and fought the black cloud that was trying to seep in from the corners of her vision. She blinked once, twice. Did Reid just stand up? She saw Duke follow suit, their hard eyes boring into Johnny’s back. Duke shook his head, the loathing clear in his gaze. "I have enough hate inside of me to kill you this very moment, Johnny." The outlaw whirled around, his confident grin fading to an expression of surprise. "How’d you…" Johnny turned and glared at her. "You bitch!" Lee came from behind him, something silver glittering in his hands. She blinked, realizing it was a gun. "You’re not going to hurt my family anymore, Johnny."

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The outlaw eyed Lee. "The idiot speaks. Are there any other surprises you’re holdin’ for me?" Angel watched in horror as Reid jumped on Johnny, his fists slamming into the man’s face over and over again. The outlaw’s gun flew across the room and stopped a few feet from her. The black cloud crept into her vision, frightening her. She reached up and touched her eye. Her fingers came away drenched in blood. She blinked, pushing the cloud back for a few more minutes. She looked up just in time to see one of Johnny’s men sneaking up behind Lee. With her heart in her throat, she scrambled forward and searched for the gun as the blackness swirled into her vision. Blinking, she found it and aimed the weapon at Johnny’s man, firing the gun. The man grunted and fell back. Lee’s gaze darted to her, his expression softening. "Angel," he whispered as he turned and trained his gun on the remaining outlaws. She searched for Reid and saw Johnny twist out of his grasp and head in her direction. "Yer goin’ to pay for what you did, Bitch." "Angel!" She heard Reid’s cry and saw him try to make his way to her, but his bloody leg dragged uselessly behind him. The desperation and horror in his eyes tore at her heart. She had to tell him one last thing before death took her home. "I love you," she whispered. A white light exploded in her head as an excruciating pain pounded through her. The room went black as the sounds faded to a soft buzz. Just before she gave into the comforting warmth surrounding her, she heard a gunshot ricochet through the room and prayed the bullet hadn’t touched any of the men in her life.

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Chapter Seventeen "Oh God, no! Damn it, I won’t let you go. Not now. Angel! Wake up, love!" Reid cried, his voice cracking with the emotions pounding through his heart. He ran his hand through his hair and blinked back the tears. He couldn’t lose her now. Not after everything they had been through together. He reached forward and swept a few loose tendrils off her face. His hand came away covered in blood. Dear, God. He had to stop the bleeding. He had to stop it now. He turned and glanced into Duke’s tormented gaze. The man stared at his sister as though she was already dead, the tears slipping from his eyes like a silent betrayal of his strength. Reid’s heart twisted at the sight of the notorious outlaw humbled. "What can we do, Reid? My sister’s life is in yer hands. Tell me anythin’, and I’ll do it." "I have to stop the bleeding. I need you to find a clean cloth and whiskey. Then retrieve the needle and silk thread in my saddle bag. Thank God he let us take our horses." Reid reached out and stopped Duke as he rose. "Find them quick. She may not have that much time left." "You really love her, don’t you?" Reid struggled with his emotions and swallowed hard. "More than life itself." "I’ll do anythin’ you ask. Just save my sister," Duke said, stepping over Johnny Hunt’s lifeless body. Reid turned back to Angel and swept his hands over her as he searched for broken bones. His experienced hands detected a slight swelling over her stomach. A surge of fire charged through his veins and he sat back on his heels. Swallowing over and over again, he shook his head in denial. Finally, he reached forward with shaky hands and examined her closer as tears welled up in his eyes. With a strangled groan, he pulled her into his arms. "Oh God! Why didn’t you tell me? Why?" He felt the soft throb of her heartbeat against his cheek and snuggled his face next to the tiny sign of life. "Hold on, sweet Angel. Don’t leave me just yet." A warm hand touched his shoulder. He looked up into Duke’s terror filled gaze. "What’s happened? Has she…?"

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Reid heard Duke’s agonized question and turned to see Lee rush up next to him, tears glittering in his eyes as he tried so hard to act like a man. He shook his head. "She hasn’t left us. She’s pregnant with my child, and God willing, I’m going to save them both." *** Duke watched Reid pace the parlor once again and decided he would strangle the man if he continued in such a manner. "Good God man, sit down. You’re makin’ me dizzy." The look of pure torture and agonizing pain on Reid’s face made Duke regret disturbing him. When he first saw the giant of a man on his knees with tears running down his face as he begged the Lord for Angel’s life, he knew how much Reid loved her. He had no doubt that they belonged together. "Why is it taking so long? I was a fool to let you talk me into allowing the doctor across town to examine her," Reid said, his voice husky with unshed tears. "You weren’t exactly of a mind to do it. You said so yerself." Reid glared at him. "When did I say that?" "Last night." "Well I changed my mind." Duke stood up and grabbed Reid’s arm before the man could run up the stairs half-cocked. "Let the doctor do his job. You’ll only prevent him from helpin’ her." His arm felt like a rock under Duke’s hand, and he quickly let go of him. His earlier description suited him. He was indeed a giant. The broad expanse of the man’s shoulders was enough to make him glad they hadn’t disagreed on anything. Reid grumbled to himself but didn’t give him any more trouble. Duke sat down and tried to sound positive. "I’m sure she’ll be all right, Reid. She’s a fighter. Always has been and always will be." Reid didn’t move or acknowledge him. He sat in the chair and looked sightlessly out the window, obviously struggling with his own demons. Duke frowned and knew Reid was blaming himself for not saving Angel. If she saw him now, she would have him back to his old self in minutes. She seemed to have a way with the man. He, on the other hand, didn’t have a clue of how to proceed with the man. As he waited through the silence, he found himself praying for the first time in his life. ***

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"Dr. Benson will see both of you now." Reid heard his housekeeper’s words through the grief stricken fog that surrounded his thoughts and jumped up from the chair. Angel was all around him, delving into his memories. He saw her reading at the table in the cabin. He heard her passionate cries as he made love to her. He couldn’t stop thinking about her. More than anything, he wanted to race up the stairs and beg her to forgive him. The only thing stopping him was the knowledge that such an act would be based purely on selfishness. He hurried up the stairs behind Duke and gritted his teeth as pain surged from his bandaged leg. He saw Angel’s brother cross the room to shake the doctor’s hand. "We’re thankful that you came to help my sister, Dr. Benton." Reid moved into the room as if in a trance and sat next to Angel on the bed. Reaching forward, he tucked a stray strand of hair back under the bandages that wound around her head and choked on the tears rising to his throat. The bruises marring her face were enough to make him lose control. "How is she doctor?" Reid heard Duke’s question and turned. The doctor met his gaze and motioned for him to join them in the hallway. Finding it hard to leave Angel, he kissed her hand, said a silent prayer, and then joined the elderly doctor. Duke stepped forward. "Tell us. Why isn’t she awake?" Dr. Benton blinked his watery eyes and sighed. "She took a horrible blow to the head, Dr. Spencer, as you well know, and isn’t likely to awake for days. Perhaps even weeks. It all depends." "Will there be any lastin’ effects?" Duke asked, his face creased with worry. The doctor shrugged his shoulders. "The trauma to the head is not entirely understood in the medical field. What we do know, and I’m sure Dr. Spencer can back me up on this, is that she may have a great deal of memory loss." He glanced to Reid and frowned. "And in some cases patients woke up without certain skills like walking or talking and had to relearn them all over again. You must prepare yourself for that possibility." Reid leaned against the wall and winced as his heart twisted with grief. He should have protected her. What if he lost her? What if he lost her forever? He swallowed hard. "And the child?" Dr. Benton pushed his spectacles up on his nose. "The child doesn’t seem harmed, but we won’t really know until it is born. I’m going to check on her twice a day to see how she progresses and hopefully we’ll know more in a day or two." Walking back into the room, Reid closed the door and sat next to her on the bed. When he saw her tiny hand resting on the comforter, he let out an

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anguished cry and threaded his fingers through hers. Carefully, he raised her hand to his lips and kissed her palm. With an anguished moan, he leaned closer and whispered into her ear. "If you’ll still have me, Sweet Angel, I’ll give you everything—the moon, the stars, the ocean. It will be yours if you’ll just open your eyes and give me a smile." He waited for what seemed like years, but she never moved. She never opened her eyes and gave him the smile that would have sent his soul soaring into the heavens. With a tortured groan, he cradled his head on her stomach and let the tears come. *** Sometime during the night, Reid awoke to find himself stretched out in a chair next to Angel’s bed. He sat up and moaned as the tense muscles in his back stretched. Angel whimpered in pain and cried out his name. In moments, he was next to her. He took the cloth from the basin on the nightstand and bathed her forehead. "Shhh, love. It’s all right. I’m here now." She continued thrashing in the bed until he threw himself over her to keep her from hurting herself. Her scream of agony scraped his spine like a razor blade. The pain from seeing her like this was agonizing. "Duke! Damn it! Duke!" he yelled. Duke rushed into the room, the door slamming against the wall. Wearing only his underwear, he rubbed his eyes and rushed over to the bed. "What? What’s happenin’?" Another scream rent the air. Reid saw Duke fall to his knees. "Oh God. What’s wrong with her?" "Get my doctor’s bag in the parlor. Now. The pain is killing her. Go, hurry and bring Lee," Reid said as he tried to hold Angel down. He cradled her face and kissed her lips, tasting her salty tears. "Shhh. Hold on for a few more moments, and I’ll give you something to help the pain. Hold on, my love," he whispered, his voice cracking as she let out another tortured scream. Moments later Duke and Lee rushed into the room. When Angel let out another scream, he saw Lee’s face turn deathly white. "Oh God," he whispered. He covered his ears as tears glittered in his eyes and turned his gaze on Reid. "Help her damn you. Take away her pain." "Come hold her down," Reid commanded, his chest bursting every time he heard her pained cries. He didn’t know how much more he could take before succumbing to his weaknesses. He gave her the medicine, then sat back in his chair and buried his face

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in his hands. He had been a fool not to realize how much he loved her. He would do anything for her. Lie, cheat, steal anything! Now she lay in his bed motionless and wracked with pain because he hadn’t been able to reach her in time. "Why don’t you get some sleep?" Reid glanced up and saw Lee staring sympathetically down into his eyes. "I can’t." "You aren’t doing her a bit of good wearin’ yourself out. She’ll be fine." Reid’s head shot up until he glared at Lee. "I said I can’t! I won’t leave her." He felt a hand on his shoulder and met Duke’s gaze. "Don’t you start." "Reid, you didn’t cause this to happen. It’s not your fault." He gritted his teeth and stood to stare out the window at the street below. "How can I expect her to marry me or let me take care of our child when I can’t keep her out of harms way?" "Don’t be a fool and let the woman you love slip through your fingers because you’re afraid of yerself. You’re runnin’ with your tail between yer legs because you’re afraid you let her down. You protected her in the best way you could. I can’t imagine a better man to marry my sister." Duke’s words meant a lot to Reid, but he wasn’t buying it. "Your words don’t change anything. Angel’s still in my bed fighting for her life." "Go to her. Sleep next to her and get some rest. You’ll feel better in the mornin’." Reid watched Duke leave, then slowly crawled into bed next to Angel. He curled his body around hers, careful not to move her. She had settled down after he gave her the medicine and he didn’t want to cause her any more pain. He settled back on the pillow and rubbed his nose in her hair. The soft scent of roses followed her everywhere and comforted him now. He breathed deeply and prayed for the thirteenth time that day. *** Angel struggled through a dark fog and tried to open her eyes. She tried again to no avail. The soft scent of pine swept over her face. He was there. Next to her. Oh God why couldn't she open her eyes? If only she could look at him. Just once and she would know that everything was going to be all right. God help me! Her mind screamed. She felt tears prickle in the corners of her eyes and slip down her face. Why couldn’t she open her eyes? Angel felt the whispered kiss on her lips and tried to move her hand to touch the familiar lines of Reid’s face. A cold drop of liquid fell on her cheek. A tear! Was he crying? More drops followed the first. Oh God! Why was he crying? Pain knifed through her body as she tried to raise her arms to embrace

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him. Finally the pain became too harrowing and she stopped. "Don’t cry, love. We’ll have more." She heard the agonized sob that tore from his throat and winced. What was he saying? They’ll have more? More what? Angel braced her head for the pain as she tried to speak. "Reid, I’m all right. I love you." Silence hung in the air like an omen of death. A cold breeze moved over her body and she knew instinctively that Reid had left. Why couldn’t he hear her? Pain knifed through her head until she thought she would scream. Why had he left? She needed him! She allowed herself to slip back into the quiet welcome of the darkness that awaited her. *** Angel opened her eyes, then gritted her teeth as pain flashed through her head like lightning. She pressed her palms to her temples and waited for the pain to subside. Where was Reid? She needed something to make the pain stop. "I still intend to marry her if that’s what you’re asking. I wouldn’t leave her now. For God’s sake. She just lost our baby!" When she heard Reid’s distinctive voice echo in the hall, her head snapped up. I wouldn’t leave her now. For God’s sake. She just lost our baby! She shook her head as tears formed in her eyes. No, he was lying. She couldn’t have lost their child. A wave of pain rushed through her that seemed to encompass her soul in an emptiness so deep that she had to squeeze her eyes shut or scream. Something was missing inside of her. Her baby. I wouldn’t leave her now…she just lost our baby. Was it his only reason for staying with her? She clenched the blanket beneath her as grief tightened in her chest. Squeezing her eyes shut, she felt her body stiffen and shudder with the extent of her pain. She would not take his pity. She would not take anything he had to give. She turned her head into the pillow and sobbed. "Oh my God! Angel!" She wiped her tears away and glanced into Reid’s concerned gaze. Why couldn’t his heart be different? Why couldn’t he really love her? The questions rushing through her head infuriated her. Why should she care? He obviously didn’t care about her. She pressed her lips together and narrowed her eyes. "I heard you in the hall, Reid. I lost my b-baby," she said, choking on the word. "Angel, I—"

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"If I see you the day I die, it will be too s-soon. Get out of my room." The smile faded from his face. "I don’t understand." The room started to whirl as the muscles in her neck tightened. She glanced to the door. "Duke! Duke!" Her brother rushed into the room. When he saw her, his gaze softened. She detected the tears glistening in the corner of his eyes and fought not to cry herself. She swallowed the lump in her throat. "Take me to Lilly’s. I no longer wish to be in this house." Duke looked shocked. "Are you sure? I mean--" He looked to Reid. The questions in her brother’s eyes infuriated her. Whose side was he on? "You do not need his permission. Do as I ask," she bit out. "Good God, man. This was not the time to say the wrong thing!" Duke told Reid. Reid’s eyes darted to hers and caused her to shiver. They were as cold as ice and his face was devoid of all emotion. "She heard our conversation in the hall and wishes to leave," he said simply. Duke crossed the room and sat next to her on the bed. "I will do whatever you ask but think about your decision." "I already have. Are you going to take me to Lilly’s?" "Whatever you wish," Duke said as he reached down and hoisted her into his arms. She didn’t dare glance at Reid as Duke carried her down the stairs and out the door. She turned her face into his collar and grieved for her losses. *** Reid sank into the chair next to Angel’s bed and stared at the linens as though they truly weren’t there. Losing the baby was hard enough but to lose his beloved in the same day was unbearable. He stared down at his hands. When he ran into the room, the expression on her face had stopped him cold. She blamed him. He knew that now. She blamed him for losing the baby. Reid buried his face in his hands. Not only had he not been able to save Angel, but he had also lost their child. It was no wonder she blamed him. He had struggled with the grief himself ever since she’d lost the baby. "Dr. Spencer. Will you be dining in tonight?" Reid raised his head and glanced at his housekeeper. Her cool gray eyes darted over his state of undress disapprovingly. "I won’t be dining, Mrs. Cook. Take the night off and go home to your family." Mrs. Cook nodded and left him alone. Reid pulled himself out of the chair and moved over to the bed. With a weary sigh, he sat down and ran his hand over the quilt. He didn’t know what

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he would do without her. For the last week he had taken to the idea of being by her side for the rest of his life. Now that he found himself alone, he had no idea how to bide his time. An angry growl came up from deep inside his chest. He reached out and sent the crystal vase of roses he had carefully arranged for her bedside across the room. It shattered and fell to the floor like teardrops. "Damn it all to hell, Angel. Damn it all to hell. You gave me a glimpse of the dream and when I reached out to grab it you took it away. Damn you!" he said to the empty room. A persistent pounding sounded on the door downstairs. He tried to ignore it, but it continued until he jumped off the bed and hurried down the hall. Perhaps Angel needed him. He opened the door and stared into the frightened eyes of a rather young man. "What’s happened?" "It’s my wife. She’s havin’ the baby. Come quick." Reid stared at the dark haired man in disbelief. Surely, God wouldn’t make him go through this so soon. The man reached forward and grabbed his hand, his eyes pleading. "Please! She’s in a lot of pain. Please help her." He gritted his teeth and hurried into the parlor to grab his bag. He would drown himself in his work, and then he wouldn’t have to think about Angel or his child. He returned to the young man and nodded. "I’m ready. We must hurry." *** Angel pulled on the reins and halted her horse in the field leading to the Walker cabin. With a heavy sigh, she glanced up into the sky. Fingers of red and orange splayed across the crystal blue heavens, then plunged behind the jagged peaks of the mountains. The dazzling display of nature took her breath away, and she found herself transfixed by the beautiful setting. "This should be an oil painting," she mumbled to herself. As she watched the colors deepen, a soft breeze played with her hair and cooled the summer heat to a tolerable temperature. She dabbed at her forehead with a lace handkerchief and listened to the wind as it rippled through the tall grass and rustled among the leaves in the trees. Angel closed her eyes and breathed deeply. Since she left Reid’s a month earlier, she hadn’t allowed herself a moment alone. She couldn’t bear the pain the silence inflicted. It only brought memories of Reid and her child to the surface. Painful memories. Tears prickled the corners of her eyes and she squeezed them shut to

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prevent her weakness from spilling forth. Perhaps it was a mistake to go off on her own. Out here, no one would comfort her. To spite her fears, she dismounted and walked through the field, her gaze returning to the sunset. She missed him. Angel sank to her knees in the soft dirt and blinked numbly as the pain throbbed in her chest. She pressed her hand over her heart and let the desperation, longing and devastation push past her resolve and rise to the surface of her emotions. When was the emptiness ever going to leave her? Would she think of Reid for the rest of her life? Would he never leave her alone? She cried out in frustration as a wave of grief washed over her. Her baby--their baby. The reality of it all slammed down on her without an ounce of kindness. She squeezed her eyes closed and wondered if Reid was feeling the same sort of emptiness and utter despair. How she wished he was there with her. He could make the pain stop. He could teach her how to live again. Pick yourself up, Angel. That man won’t change his ways and be what you need him to be. She thought to herself as she stood. Angel wiped her tears away and crossed her arms over her chest to watch the sun fade in the sky. It would be dark soon, and she had to get back to the house. There was plenty of work to do, and if she wanted to keep her mind off her troubles, she would have to work every waking hour for the rest of her life. She was about to mount her horse when she saw Duke riding through the field. His face was grim as he spotted her and turned in her direction. He rode his horse up next to her, then dismounted. "I’ve been lookin’ everywhere for you." Angel sighed and eyed him sadly. "I just took a moment out to relax." "I’m glad you did. You’ve been workin’ too hard anyhow. I’m worried about you. Why must you insist on working your fingers to the bone when you should be resting after the ordeal you just went through?" "Because workin’ is the only thing that gives me any peace of mind these days." The soft leather of Duke’s gloves slid over her cheek as he affectionately caressed her jaw. "Why are you doing this to yourself? You haven’t been eating enough. Yer as skinny as a rail and ain’t looking too healthy. Is Reid worth all of this?" She shook her head. "He ain’t worth any of it. But the child--I just feel so empty inside." He hugged her. "Then I have just the thing to brighten yer spirits. You have a visitor."

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"I don’t want to see him," Angel replied. "It’s not Reid. I sent for mother, and she arrived this morning, but I couldn’t find you." A shiver plunged down her back. "What? Have you completely lost yer mind, Duke Walker? She’ll find out what we’ve been up to." "She already knows." Angel shook her head in horror. "Oh God. What have you gone and done?" "I did the best thing for you." Angel swallowed the lump in her throat. "Is she angry?" "She hasn’t spoken a single word in over an hour. Figured you’d be the one to get her to talk to us so we can sort this out." "You’ve sure made a mess of things. A mess of things! I’ll help as much as I can, but I can assure you that ma is pretty mad. The last time she was so angry that she didn’t talk was when pa left her. I’m not lookin’ forward to this. Damn you and your meddlin’."

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Chapter Eighteen "You can’t be serious, Angela! Haven't I taught you anything in all of these years? If you were having trouble financially, why didn’t you tell me instead of...becoming an outlaw and stealing it back! I just don’t understand. Help me to understand!" Duke swallowed hard and glanced into his mother’s deep blue eyes. He had brought his family to this, and the pain he saw in his mother’s gaze threatened to tear him apart. "Mother, don’t pass judgements until you hear our whole story," Angel said defiantly. He grinned, pleased with himself. The fire was back in his sister’s gaze. If nothing else, he had succeeded in snapping her out of her lifeless acceptance. For weeks now, he lay in his bed every night and stared at the ceiling as she sobbed in the next room, wondering how long he could stay away. He waited until he couldn’t bear the sound of her pain anymore and went to her, stumbling through the cabin in the depths of the night to reach her side. As the sky lightened, he tried to comfort her in the only way he knew how. He held her tiny body in his arms and talked to her like he used to when they were children. He talked of his dreams and all the things he wished he could give her. He talked of New York and of the good times they’d shared as a family. Though she shivered and sobbed out her pain, he knew she heard every word he said and was comforted by him in some manner at least. Hours later, her body lay still, her chest rising and falling as she slept. He always kissed her forehead as the sun rose over the horizon and fell asleep next to her, exhausted. "Wouldn’t you agree, Duke?" He blinked and met Angel’s wide-eyed gaze. She looked at him expectantly, waiting. He leaned forward and rested his elbows on his knees. "Mother, we didn’t have a choice. Either we had to bring you back to Montana Territory or find other means to pay for our survival. Our hands were tied." "Surely there were other occupations you could have chosen rather then becoming outlaws. I mean, really! Jade Sinclair!" Duke watched his mother’s deep blue eyes widen as she looked at each one of her children, her gaze settling on Duke. He hadn’t seen her in less than

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a year and since then, her hair had softened to a silvery light brown. Even more surprising were the wrinkles at the corner of her eyes. She had aged in that short amount of time, but her heart shaped face was still as beautiful as he remembered. "Ma, we didn’t have a choice. It was either steal or starve," Lee said, reaching over to touch their mother’s hand. "I should never have agreed to travel to Colorado Territory and leave you here. I knew this city was horrible the first day I laid eyes on the place, but you insisted on staying. They’ve corrupted you! Oh dear Lord," she whispered as she raised her hand to fan herself. "Lee, get her a cold glass of water, would you?" Angel asked. Duke reached forward and took his mother’s hand. "We didn’t want this for our lives, but sometimes you have to do what you have to do. That’s over now." "Yes! It’s over now, mother," Angel said, shaking her head. "After I lost the baby we all realized that we needed to find a better life." "Baby? What? Oh dear Lord, what more must I deal with?" Duke’s gaze darted to Angel’s. "I didn’t tell her that!" She rolled her eyes. "It’s a fine time to be specific, Duke Walker!" They both reached forward and patted their mother’s hands at the same time. *** "Please tell me that this man intends to marry you. Can I hope for that at the very least?" Angel sighed and leaned back in her chair, almost at a loss for words. "You can hope for it, but marriage isn’t likely." Her mother stood and smoothed down her teal skirts. "Then that settles it. I’m getting married in three months and my new husband wants you to live with us." Angel bolted up in her chair. "You’re what?" She heard Duke and Lee echo her surprise. "You heard me. You will live with me and that’s final!" Duke leaned forward on the bench he shared with Lee. "I’m a full grown man, mother. My home is here." Angel watched her mother reach over and pull on Duke’s ear until he stood. "Oh my dear you are so wrong. A full grown man wouldn’t have thought up a hare-brained scheme like this. I heard stories of the Sinclair trio all the way in Colorado Territory, and all that time they were talking about my own children! I shudder to think of it now."

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She felt as thought her valued independence was in danger. With her heart pounding, she stood and faced her mother. "I’m not coming with you either. I love you, but Montana Territory has become a part of me. I can’t leave." "I want to stay too," Lee said, standing to join them. Angel swallowed hard. "Who is he, mother?" "All in due time. It is more important that we talk about you." Her mother brushed her hair out of her eyes with a gloved hand, then glared at her children. "I have no other choice than to stay until all of my children find a decent life. One that I would be proud of. We’ll start with you, Angela." She raised a brow at her mother and tried to swallow her anger. "I am a grown woman. I don’t need you meddlin’ in my life." "What is the man’s name?" She pressed her lips together and shook her head. "I will not play your foolish games, mother." Her mother put her hands on her hips and glared at her. "Angela Walker. If I have to take you over my knee and give you a walloping, I will. I relented and won’t force you to leave with me. Do not push your luck." Angel knew she couldn’t argue with her mother. She glared at Duke for not helping her. "His name is Reid Spencer." *** "Take your most lovely dress out of your trunk, Angela. I spoke with Mrs. Johnson this morning and the church is holding a dance tonight. It’s time I visited my friends and I refuse to go alone." Angel glanced up from her book. "Mother, you can’t be serious. I couldn’t possibly." "You will do as I say, young lady. You haven’t been outside since I arrived a week ago, and you look absolutely dreadful. I’ll wait right here while you dress," she said sternly. She looked down at her hands, feeling ashamed. "I don’t have a nice dress." Her mother took her hand, her gaze twinkling with mischief. "You were graced with my figure. One of my dresses will fit you, and you’ll look stunning. This Reid Spencer won’t be able to take his eyes off of you." She wrenched her hand out of her mother’s. "Is that why you want me to go?" "Not at all dear. I just thought the dancing would bring a little color to your cheeks. Now let’s go find that dress!" The dress her mother chose for her was beautiful. She never saw anything quite like it. Even Alice’s expensive dresses didn’t compare. The

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material was made of silk and dyed to the perfect shade of green to accentuate auburn hair. The dress itself had a lace collar and a long flowing skirt. As her mother worked with her hair, she assured Angel that it was at the top of fashion and not a man at the dance would be able to keep their eyes off of her. She doubted her mother spoke the truth. In between her mother’s attentions, she tried to catch a glimpse of herself in the cracked mirror across the room. She saw a beautiful woman she didn’t recognize staring back at her before her mother turned her head to the front again. "There! You can look now," Emily said, her expression bursting with pride. Angel stood and walked to the mirror. She blinked twice, not believing the reflection she saw in the glass was hers. Her hair was twisted into an attractive coiffure with just a few tendrils slipping out to curl around her face. The color of her dress made her skin look flawless. She gasped and fingered the lace color. "It doesn’t even look like me." She saw her mother’s gaze sweep over her approvingly in the mirror and detected the glint of tears in her blue depths. Moved by her mother’s love, she turned and took her hand. "It’s beautiful. Thank you." "You remind me of myself when I was your age. So beautiful and so filled with spirit." Her mother paused, then met her gaze. "When you sent me away it broke my heart, Angela." She blinked back the tears. "We made you leave because it was better for your health. We could have been selfish and let you stay, but then you could have died. I love you, mother and I’m so glad you came for a visit." "As I love you," she said, taking a deep breath. "Now, you must tell me about this Reid Spencer. Do you love him? You never did say whether you do or not." She turned around, forgetting her mother could see her face in the mirror. "I did." "You still do, Sweet. I can see it in your eyes. Why won’t he have you then?" "I won’t have him," Angel whispered, her voice wavering. Warm and delicate hands rested on her shoulders and turned her around until she stared into her mother’s gaze. "Let me understand this correctly. You love him but you won’t have him?" "He only wanted to marry me because I was havin’ his child. Then when I l-lost the b-baby I knew he was going through with it out of propriety’s sake. I couldn’t bear to live a life like that. I know you did, but I just can’t." Her mother traced her face, tickling the sides of her neck. "I understand. Truly, I do. I didn’t love your father when I married him, but the love we found

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together became everything I had ever dreamed of." A memory flashed through Angel’s mind. She reached forward and took her mother’s hand. "The sheriff. He told me that my father didn’t really die in a room with a whore. He said that it was a setup. He said that my father really did love you." Tears slowly crept into her mother’s eyes. "I know, Sweet. I’ve always known. You father would never betray the love we found together. For the life of me, I didn’t know how to make you children understand that. I saw the hate and bitterness in your eyes when the news came and didn’t know how to convince you differently. Your father had been gone for such a long time as it was." "I always hated him. Now, I grieve for all the time I lost," Angel said, barely seeing through the tears. "He knew, love. I still feel him everywhere I go. I think he’s protecting all of us." She nodded. "I’d like to think so." Her mother took the lace handkerchief from between her breasts and dabbed at her tears. "Now, no changing the subject. Do you know the way your man feels? Did you ask him?" "No." "Do you think he will be at this dance tonight?" Angel looked into the mirror. "Perhaps." "Then showing up like this is liable to make any man take notice and won’t hurt a thing. We’ll just see how this Reid fellow feels about you. Now, are you ready?" She nodded, wondering if she was doing the right thing. Could she bear to see him again? Hadn’t the time away from him dulled her pain some? Would it all come back the minute she laid eyes on Reid? *** Reid glanced around the candlelit clearing next to the church and watched the couples twirl on the wooden dance floor to the invigorating music the band played. He downed the last of the punch in his cup and crossed the grass to the table covered with morsels of food and an array of beverages. He didn’t know why he had bothered to come to the dance. Ethan was visiting and wanted to meet new people so he had agreed to go. Now, three hours later, he was bored. Still, he couldn’t force himself to leave. He stayed because there was a chance that Angel would be there tonight. He had heard the rumors. Her mother had returned. Reid refilled his cup and searched the people standing around the dance floor. She wasn’t there. What if she didn’t attend after all?

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He drained the cup and reached forward to serve up another. The desire to see her was nearly eating him up inside. He had waited through the agonizing loneliness for an entire month, but she’d never come to him. He had waited for nothing. He growled deep in his throat and drank the rest of the punch. He was a fool. She was the one who had left him. Not the other way around. What if she did attend and threw herself all over the eligible bachelor’s there? He would find it hard not to slam his fist into each one of the doting men’s faces just to get her to look at him. Reid saw Ethan talking with a few of the available ladies and crossed the clearing on stiff legs. "Ethan, might I speak with you privately?" His friend nodded and gave the ladies an apologetic look. "I’ll be back before you even notice I’ve left." Reid shook his head at the obvious flirtation but was glad his friend was starting to socialize again. "I’m leaving. I’m sure you’ll be able to find your way back to my house." Ethan’s gray eyes widened. "I thought you were waitin’ for Angel." "It was a foolish idea." "Not so foolish as you lettin’ her get away. Stay awhile and enjoy the dance. Heck, one of the women I was talking to has been watching you. I’m sure she’d like to dance." Reid shook his head. "I’m leaving. I don’t feel much like dancing." He saw Ethan look over his shoulder and knew instinctively that she had arrived. His friend grinned at him. "I think you might want to reconsider." Reid turned and scanned the line of women standing off to the side of the dance floor and turned back. "She’s not here. What are you trying to do to me?" Ethan raised an eyebrow at him. "Look again, my friend. Beyond the plain skirts and blouses is a beautiful woman. A very beautiful woman. You’d be a fool to let that one go." Given such a clue, Reid spotted Angel standing with an older woman next to the dance floor. She was watching the couples twirl to the music with the delight of a child. He looked twice before he believed that the enchanting woman in a green apple confection at the top of fashion was truly her. His mouth went dry as his gaze swept from the elegant coiffure to her creamy alabaster shoulders, then down to her flared hips. God, she was beautiful "Don’t be a fool, man. Go talk to her. Ask her to dance." Reid watched her circle around the dance floor, her gaze darting from couple to couple. He walked forward and was just about to touch her shoulder when an elderly woman stepped in front of him, giggling.

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"Dr. Spencer. One of my closest friends has come for a visit and I wanted to introduce the two of you." Reid tore his gaze away from Angel and stared into the elderly woman’s gaze. "Why of course, Mrs. Jones." He took the other woman’s hand and kissed her knuckles. "Pleased to meet you, Miss…or is it Mrs.?" When she didn’t answer, he looked up and gazed into the woman’s haunting blue eyes. When she smiled, he flinched. Angel was the spitting image of her mother. "My name is Emily Walker. I believe you treated my daughter when she was ill." He raised up and stood as straight as a rod. He could tell by the knowing look in Emily’s gaze that Angel had told her everything. He gritted his teeth. "Oh yes, Angel Walker. A delightful girl indeed. Is she doing well?" Reid watched Emily raise a lace handkerchief to her lips. He had to strain to hear what she said with the music blaring in the background but could have sworn she muttered, "yes, I’m sure you would think she’s delightful indeed." "Excuse me? Did you say something?" he asked, grinning. Now he knew where Angel had inherited her spirit. She waved her handkerchief in the air. "Oh nothing. I was just clearing my throat." "I’m sure you were," he mumbled under his breath. "I’m afraid I didn’t hear you this time, Dr. Spencer. Might you repeat it?" "I just said it was nice to meet you, but if you’ll excuse me, I’d like to ask your daughter how she’s feeling." "Yes!" Emily muttered behind her handkerchief. Reid whirled back to look into her eyes. "What did you say?" She looked up at him, her gaze taking on an innocent cast. "Oh, just clearing my throat again, Dr. Spencer. Have a delightful time tonight. I’m sure I’ll be bumping into you again." Reid grinned; realizing what Emily was trying to do. "You clear your throat an awful lot, Mrs. Walker. Stop by my office tomorrow. I’d like make sure you aren’t coming down with a chill." He heard her chuckle behind her handkerchief and grinned, knowing he had bested the woman’s efforts. It was a shame he was on such shaky ground with Angel. He liked Emily Walker and would have enjoyed getting to know her better. Reid left her with Mrs. Jones and searched the crowd of smiling faces for Angel. She wasn’t there. Frightened that she had left before he could talk to her, he looked for a glimpse of her green apple dress in the moonlight. "You lost yer chance. A beautiful woman like that won’t last long in a

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town of lonely bachelors. You should have grabbed her when she was standin’ alone." Reid turned to see Ethan scowling at him. Searching the dance floor, he saw Angel dancing with a young man, their faces glowing in the candlelight. As he watched, her face warmed with a smile so endearing he thought he would surely perish from the pain. "Damn it. I was with her mother." "Her mother? Did she slap you?" Reid glanced at his friend with a grin of amusement. "No, I think she’s trying to play match maker." "Well that’s good to hear. If you have her mother on your side then nothin’ is going to stop you two from being together." Reid wished he were as confident as Ethan was. Angel was too stubborn to change her mind just because someone told her to. He was on his own. To win her back, he would have to turn on the charm and let her know every waking moment how much he loved her. She needed to hear his words. He needed for her to believe them. When he turned to look for her, he saw that the young man had left her at the refreshment table. He started over in her direction, surprised to realize that he was nervous. Stopping behind her, he raised his hand to touch her shoulder. Unsure whether it was the appropriate thing to do, he held his hand suspended over creamy skin, then let it drop back to his side. He watched her fill a cup with punch and tried to ignore the longing squeezing his heart. Her soft lips parted like the petals of a flower in the sunshine and accepted the liquid. As she swallowed, a gentle breeze lifted the loose strands around her face and assaulted him with her scent. The scent of roses in a midnight rain. He tried to take a breath, but it caught in his throat, choking him. He coughed and quickly inhaled, alerting her to his presence. Angel whirled around, dropping her cup. Her gaze instantly softened as she whispered his name. He smiled and took her gloved hands in his, gently squeezing. "How are you?" *** Angel had picked Reid out in the crowd the moment her slippered feet touched the ground. She had watched him staring lazily at the dancers for what seemed like hours. But here he was, standing before her, touching her softly. She swallowed hard. "I’m fine, Dr. Spencer. How are you?" "You are more than fine. You are simply beautiful," he whispered,

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squeezing her hands again. Her cheeks burned, and she quickly pulled away. "Thank you. You look…well," she said, allowing her gaze to dart over his appearance. Well, was hardly the appropriate word. He looked very handsome in his tailored black trousers and coat. He had dressed up for the occasion. They both had. She wondered if his reason was as amorous as hers was. "Why didn’t you let me help you?" Angel heard the pain in his voice but tried to ignore it. If she let her feelings get the best of her, he could easily take advantage of her again. "Dr. Benton did a fine job so I continued under his care." The smile faded on Reid’s face. "Dr. Benton did a fine job as opposed to my doctoring skills? She met his gaze. "I didn’t say that." "Oh, but you did, my sweet," he said, his voice wavering with emotion. She saw a thin line of tears glittering in his eyes before he glanced toward the dance floor, his jaw clenching over and over again. She had hurt him and the guilt swept down on her conscious with horrifying accuracy. She should never have come in the first place, but she was here now and had to deal with the consequences. She reached forward and took his hand. "Well there’s no sense standin’ around when there’s a perfectly good song playing. Will you dance with me?" He nodded and led her up the stairs to the dance floor. Grinning, he gathered her into his arms and pulled her through the invigorating waltz. As the music flowed around her, she dared to look into his eyes. The devotion she saw in his expression caused her to miss a step. He skillfully pulled her back into the rhythm. "I’ve missed you." His words chipped away at her restraint. She looked away. "Don’t say that." "Why? It’s the truth." "We must not allow ourselves to think that way." His body stiffened against hers. "Why? Are you scared of loving someone?" She tried to yank her hand out of his, but he pulled her back into his arms. "Don’t run away because you’re afraid that I might be right, Angel. You’re stronger than that." Confused and devastated by his knowledge of her fears, she panicked. "You don’t own me. No one owns me. You have no right to make such assumptions based purely on insight." He pulled her chin up until she gazed into his eyes. "Love isn’t about owning, Angel. It’s about offering all that you are to someone because you care about them so deeply. Are you so afraid of being dependent on someone

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that you’ll throw your happiness away just to escape your fears?" She pulled back, shocked. "Yes! Is that what you wanted to hear?" His gaze pleaded with her. "Don’t you see? You can run and run but one day life is going to catch you by the throat. If you don’t change your ways that day will destroy you." She wanted to cover her ears and block out his words but knew she would only make a spectacle of herself. Instead, she stopped dancing and pulled her arms out of his embrace. "You’ve been runnin’ with your tail tucked safely between your legs for years! You’re still afraid that one day you’ll wake up and this new found ability will be gone. I know you just as well. You’ll run up to your cabin and hide away just like you did the first time. So don’t tell me about fears." She turned away and plunged down the stairs and into the soft grass. She had to get away from him. He was causing her to think about things that were better left dead and buried. She swept her hand through her hair and sent the pins holding it in the coiffure in all directions. She had to get away. Hurrying into the shadows surrounding the church, she sank to her knees and buried her face in her hands. As the tears came, she tried to push them back with deep gulps of air. She was stronger than this. Wasn’t she? Warm hands gripped her arms and turned her around. She knew it was Reid and tried to pull away, but he held her tighter and kissed the top of her head. She pushed at him, her heart breaking. "I don’t need you." He chuckled. "Yes you do. Let me hold you." "Just this once," she said as she sobbed into his chest. "You miss her don’t you?" Angel swallowed hard. "Her?" "Our child." A girl! Their baby had been a girl! She squeezed her eyes shut as the familiar ache replaced her pleasure at seeing Reid. She clutched at her chest as a cry slipped past her lips. Pulling out of Reid’s arms, she curled up against her knees and sobbed. The emptiness coiled through her stomach and tortured her with it’s all consuming certainty. Her baby…a little girl was dead. She felt his arms wrap around her and then the softness of his lips on her face as he kissed her tears away. "Angel, I’m so sorry. I didn’t know the loss had affected you like this. I thought I was the only one lying awake at night." She turned into his body and snuggled her face against his neck. "Sometimes I hear her crying in the middle of the night. You remind me of her and the pain never seems to end. You have to stay away, Reid. You have to."

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Finding the strength deep inside, she bolted up and ran from the shadows. Her mother caught her gaze and hurried across the grass toward her. "Mother, this was a mistake. Take me home." "What happened? Where’s Reid." Angel glared at her. "Don’t ever mention his name again. I want to go home." "Of course, my dear. I’ll bring the wagon around." Moments later, they were on their way back to the cabin. As her mother slapped the reins over the horse’s back, she dared to glance back to the church. Reid stepped out from the shadows, his hand over his heart as if she had wrenched it from his chest. In truth, he had done the same to her. She turned forward and squeezed her eyes shut, willing the pain to deaden to a soft throb. "I’m leaving in two weeks to visit my friends in New York, mother. I need to get away from the memories for awhile and think." "If that’s what you wish dear," came the sad reply. "I won’t stop you."

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Chapter Nineteen Duke stiffened next to his mother on the wagon seat and gripped the reins until his knuckles turned white. The silence was nearly palpable between them, and he dared not say a word or risk facing his mother’s anger. "He might not even agree to see us." Hearing the worry in his mother’s voice, he relaxed. "He will," he said, trying to sound confident. "How are you certain? You didn’t see how upset she was at the dance. To force them together again could be disastrous." He sighed and slapped the reins against the horse’s backs. "Mother, he loves her. When Angel was hurt, he was far more concerned then I ever thought a person could be. He never left her side." She nodded confidently. "You’re right, son. When he noticed her at the dance, he looked like he saw a vision from God. I don’t know how to help her anymore. I’ve tried everything, but she won’t even eat now. He has to help her. He must." Duke nodded in agreement. Angel wasn’t the same person. As each day passed, she withdrew from her family more and more until she stayed up in her room for days on end. Her dinner trays came back without a speck of food missing and her cheeks had become shallow and drawn. One only had to look into her sightless blue eyes to know that she was a troubled woman. In an attempt to draw her out of the shell she had placed around her heart, he had searched her out one morning and found her sitting at the window in her nightgown. She was staring outside, her fingers drumming against the windowsill. "Angel?" She’d pivoted, recognized him, and then returned to her position before the window. "You haven’t eaten today. Why are you doing this to yourself? I don’t understand," he said, trying to get a reaction out of her. Her silence was answer enough. With a frustrated sigh, he pulled up a chair and sat down. "Why won’t you talk to me? You used to confide in me. What happened to us?" "You wouldn’t understand." He touched her arm. "Try me. Let me help you." When she turned and looked into his gaze, he saw tears glittering in the

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corner of her eyes. "Can you really understand? Can you really understand what it is like for me? I feel so empty inside. I look and look and can’t seem to find anythin’ but this darkness." He grabbed her arms, feeling helpless. "You wouldn’t have to feel that way if you would fight! He loves you, damn it! Don’t you know that? You were Jade Sinclair, the toughest outlaw this side of New York. What happened to you? Where is the strength I saw in you then?" Anger flashed behind her eyes. "Don’t judge me. I’m just not that person anymore." Pulling himself from the memory, Duke halted the wagon next to Reid’s house. He jumped down and helped his mother up to the porch. He leaned forward and rapped his knuckles on the door. "I hope you know what you are doing, son. This Reid fellow could very well throw us out. He has enough reason to after the way Angel has treated him." The door slowly opened. An elderly woman stared at them with cold gray eyes. "May I help you?" Duke cleared his throat. "We’ve come to see, Dr. Spencer." "Is it an emergency? He’s with another patient right now." Duke shook his head. "We’ll come back--." "We will not! We’ll wait!" his mother said, cutting in. Duke watched as she stepped forward and pushed past the bewildered housemaid. He offered the woman a sheepish grin, then joined his mother in the parlor. When Emily Walker wanted something, she did everything in her power to get it. Reid didn’t stand a chance against her. He grinned and sat down in a stiff-backed chair to wait. He had to give the man some credit though. Angel had inherited her mother’s stubbornness and Reid had probably learned how to handle her by now. Surely, their wills would clash and make for interesting entertainment. He sat back and prepared to enjoy the show. When Reid appeared before the parlor door, his expression showed his surprise. "Excuse me for being rude, but I don’t understand why you have come." He glanced to Emily. "Are you ill, Mrs. Walker? Is it Angel? Is she all right?" he said, his eyes widening. At the obvious sign of Reid’s concern for Angel’s welfare, Duke glanced to his mother with a pleased grin. She returned it with a nod. "She’s as good as can be expected, Dr. Spencer." *** Reid tried to conceal his relief but knew he had failed miserably. Why had they come? Their visit only dredged up needless pain and reminded him of

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all of his unanswered questions. Questions that Angel refused to answer. Emily’s face was hard and devoid of emotion, but her eyes pleaded with him. "Are you in need of my services, Mrs. Walker?" "I’ll come right to the point. Do you still love my daughter, Dr. Spencer?" Reid laughed bitterly. "What does it matter? She doesn’t return my feelings." "On the contrary, I believe that she does." He damned the hope raising the hairs on the back of his neck and narrowed his eyes. "You are mistaken, Mrs. Walker. She assured me a little over a week ago that she wants nothing to do with me." Emily reached forward and grabbed his arm. "Well, my daughter is a liar. Losing your child has torn the girl apart, and she’s insisting on leaving for New York to escape that pain. Are you just going to let her go?" He shook his head. "I only seem to cause her more pain. I can’t go against her wishes." Emily stood, nearly knocking the chair over in her haste. "I see my son has mistaken your integrity. I’m sorry to have bothered you. We’ll be on our way." He stood and grabbed Duke’s arm. "Is she all right?" Angel’s brother glared at him. "No, she isn’t. We lose a little more of her as each day passes." Duke’s confession chilled his blood. "Good God, man. What is wrong with her? You must tell me." "My sister has changed in the last few weeks until I don’t know her any more. She is tormented by nightmares every night and refuses to eat. It’s like she has lost her will to live." As they left, Reid rested his head in his hands and felt the tears sting the corner of his eyes. It’s like she has lost her will to live. Desperation caused his hands to shake until he thought he would break everything in his house just to make it stop. His guilt was driving him crazy and he could no longer sink himself in his work to avoid the emotions he held so carefully in check. He stood and glanced out the window. "What do you want from me? What is it you need right now more than anything, Angel?" Resting his head against the glass, he closed his eyes and sighed. If there was even the slightest chance that she needed him, he had to go or risk losing her forever. ***

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Why hadn’t he come to visit her? Angel wondered, the tears stinging the corners of her eyes. Did he care so little for her well being? How could he be so cruel? She stepped out of her bed and stared at her image in the mirror Duke had brought back from town. The sight in the shiny glass horrified her. Her once lustrous tresses were a dull shade of mud and hung in dirty clumps. She raised her hands and pinched her shallow cheeks but not even a small tinge of pink appeared on her skin. She looked absolutely horrid! She slammed her hands against her thighs and glared at her image in the mirror. "It’s about time you get over him, Angel Walker. It isn’t doing you any good lyin’ around feeling sorry for yourself," she said to the stranger in the glass. She stomped over to her dresser, took a brush from the surface and started pulling it through her hair. Damn you, Reid. You aren’t going to win this one. I’m stronger than this. With a triumphant smile in the mirror, she crossed the room and opened her door. "Duke! Duke!" She heard a chair clatter to the floor in the kitchen as her brother bolted around the corner and hurried down the hall. She saw the worry in his eyes and gave him a brilliant smile. "Angel! What’s wrong? Are you all right?" he asked. "I’m hungry. No! I’m starving! Ask Mama to make a huge dinner and would you mind bringin’ in the tub so I can take a long bath? I think it’s time I joined the world of the living again." An hour later, Angel sat at the kitchen table in a new teal dress that her mother had bought for her in Helena. Her mouth watered as she stared at the plates heaped with sausage, bacon, eggs and biscuits. She hugged her mother, then quickly downed a heaping plate of food. For the first time in weeks she was full. Angel sat back in the chair with a satisfied sigh and noticed everyone’s eyes were on her. Duke stared at her with his mouth open. Lee wasn’t saying a word but couldn’t keep his gaze off her empty plate, and her mother’s face beamed with a happy smile. She swallowed the last clump of eggs. "What? I was hungry." "We’re just waitin’ for you to explode," Duke said with a chuckle. "Oh you!" Angel yelled, throwing a bun across the room that hit Duke square in the eyes. "You eat enough for ten men!" Angel watched Duke rise from his chair. He leaned over and kissed her forehead. "I’m glad yer back. I’ve missed you." She swiped the tears that had gathered in her eyes away. "I’m glad too. Now, what’s been going on in the last few weeks?" Duke returned to his seat. "We’ve decided to make our land into a

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ranch." Angel sat forward, surprised. "A ranch? For horses or cattle?" "Cattle. We were thinkin’ you might want to have a part in all of this so it’s your final decision." Angel frowned. "We don’t know anything about raisin’ cattle. It just doesn’t seem like a sound investment." He nodded, looking pleased with himself. "Tom Murphy on the other side of town is having trouble feedin’ his family. He used to raise cattle in Texas Territory so I’ve hired him to teach us all the ropes of havin’ a ranch." Angel didn’t think it sounded like a bad idea at all. She knew from the other cattle owners that ranching could bring in a good deal of money. She grinned. "I think that’s a fine plan, but I won’t be here to help out much. I still plan to leave for New York." The room grew silent. She stood and collected the dishes, trying to ignore their obvious displeasure. Someone pounded on their front door. With a nervous giggle, she put the plates back down and glanced into Duke’s furious expression. "I’ll get that while you finish up." She tidied her hair, then opened the door. Her heart seemed to stop beating in that very moment, then raced ahead to make up for the lost time. Her mouth went dry as she stared into the green eyes she knew all too well. "What are you d-doing here, Reid?" He smiled, his dimples deepening handsomely. "I’ve come to see you. Are you going to make me stand out here all day or will you invite me in?" Angel had to grit her teeth to refrain from closing the door in his face. Instead, she politely motioned him inside with a flick of her wrist. She squeezed her eyes shut and inhaled the scent of pine that followed him into the kitchen. In that very moment, she could recall any number of things about him. She remembered how deep and masculine his scent became when they made love. She could feel the tiny scar at the center of his back, see the freckle over his right hip. It was as though she had made love to him that very morning. She dashed away the tears that rose to her lashes and joined Reid. The kitchen was empty. Lee’s plate sat on the table, still piled with food, and Duke had knocked over his chair in his haste to leave. Somewhere in the back of the cabin, a door slammed closed, followed by an awkward silence. "Angel?" She met his gaze and pressed her lips together. He wore the familiar white shirt she saw almost every day when she stayed with him. For some reason, that memory warmed her heart. "Why have you come? Why now after all these weeks have passed?" "I wanted to make sure you were all right."

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She sat down in one of the chairs and gestured for him to join her. "I’m just wonderful." "You’ve looked better." "You should talk. You aren’t lookin’ too fine yourself," She said, shaking a fork at him with every word until a piece of egg dislodged itself from the tines and hurled across the table to land on Reid’s shirt. She stared at him horrified, her breath catching in her throat. "Put the fork down, Angel," he grated out. "I didn’t mean---." "Put the fork down." Angel set it on the table and entwined her fingers together in her lap. "Can I get you somethin’ to drink? It’s warm out there and a nice cold drink hits the spot sometimes." "Angel?" She saw the tenderness in his expression and took a shaky breath. "What?" "I’ve missed you." She bit her tongue to keep the tears at bay. When she had gained her composure, she met his gaze. "I find that hard to believe. You haven’t been out to see me in over a month. Makes me wonder what your reasons are for being here today." "I told you. I’ve missed you. That’s why I came." She glared at him. "Then tell it to some other girl because I don’t believe you." He slammed his fist down on the table, startling her. "Why must you always make this so difficult?" She saw the anger in his eyes and nervously licked her lips. More than ever, she wanted to reach over and touch him but knew it would only complicate matters. "Why are you running away?" he said, his voice soft and questioning. "Whatever do you mean?" she asked, dreading the answer. "I heard you’re leaving for New York." She bolted up in her chair. "Who told you that?" "Your mother. I’m worried about you. Your problems will only follow you wherever you go. No amount of distance will change anything." "Don’t you think I know that? At least in New York I’ll be able to get away from you." He leaned forward, his expression tortured. "Is that really what you want? If it is, then just say so and I’ll leave. For good." "I..." Angel stumbled over the words and realized how easy it would be to beg him stay. Still, her pride wouldn’t let her. He had hurt her in so many ways and a small part of her wanted to punish him.

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She raised her chin and faced him. "I wish you would leave." He sat back in the chair as though she had reached across the table and slapped him. He watched her quietly, his gaze reflecting a mixture of disbelief and devastation so intense that she had to look away. As she sat there, numb to do anything but stare at the wall, she realized how final her words had made their situation. He had asked her whether she wanted him to leave, and she had looked him in the eye and lied! The realization disturbed her. She didn’t want him to leave at all. His chair scraped across the floor as he stood. She looked up into his eyes, but he refused to meet her gaze. When he finally glanced in her direction, she saw tears well up in his eyes and slip down his cheeks. In all the time she had known him, he had never cried freely in front of her. But now, the tears didn’t seem to end and he made no move to control himself or hide his pain. She squeezed her eyes closed, a dull throb pounding in her head. She didn’t want this! She didn’t want him to leave! Why had she lied? Why? "How can you doubt my love for you?" he asked, his voice shaking with emotion. "After everything I have done for us, how can you convince yourself that I feel nothing but responsibility toward you?" She opened her eyes and watched him through her tears. "I don’t know what I feel anymore." He leaned forward and took her face in his hands. "I wanted that baby more than anything. I would have spoiled and loved her almost as much as I love you. Almost." "Oh Reid," she sobbed, wishing she knew what to say to make him stay. He let go of her and left without another word, the door slamming behind him. She sat there, hearing his words over and over again in her head. He loved her; she had no doubt of that now. *** Reid leaned against the side of the Walker cabin in the light coming from the lamp on the porch and closed his hands around the rails. When Angel told him to leave, something had died inside of him. He wondered if the dreams would still torment him years from now. He still wanted so much. A child, a house…love. She made him believe in everything he had fought so hard to banish from his life. The events of their conversation echoed through his mind. How could she ignore her feelings? He could give her the world. Didn’t she understand that? Didn’t she know? He would die for her. He lived and breathed her. He heard the door creak as it opened and straightened, leaning back in the shadows. He saw Angel burst from the door, stumble down the stairs, and

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head off in a hard run toward the stables. She disappeared in the shadows surrounding the porch. Surprised, he rushed forward. "Angel?" She came back into the light and swiped at her tears. "Reid!" she said, choking on her sobs. His heart swelled in his chest. God, he loved her. As she stood there with the hope sparkling in her eyes, he wanted her. He wanted to sweep her up in his arms and take away every ounce of pain in her soul. "Where are you running off to?" "I was g-going to look for you." The air rushed from his lungs. "For me? What for?" Her shoulders shook as she sobbed, the tears streaming down her face. He moved to go to her, but she raised her hand and waived him back. "If you come any closer I won’t be able to tell you what’s in my heart." Reid leaned against the porch and gave her the space she seemed to need. "I'm listening." "I'm afraid of you--" "Afraid? You know I would never hurt you." She raised her hand and smiled softly. "You interrupted me. I’m afraid of you because I love you more than I thought possible. It’s not that I haven’t trusted you. It’s the history that came before I met you. The knowledge that nothing is forever…including love. If I dared to believe that you felt the same way about me…well, something would change your feelings." He stared at her incredulously. "Oh dear girl. Don’t you see? I’ve loved you ever since you faced your fear and skinned that rabbit! I knew it then, I still know it now. As each day passes I love you more and more. Nothing will change that if you quit pushing me away. I’ll love you until the day I die." She nodded her head. "Reid, I…" He raised his hand. "I’ve rarely made the right choices in my life, but I don’t want to be wrong about you. I don’t want to wonder my whole life through if we were meant to be." She walked to the steps and gazed into his eyes. "Reid I can’t…" He smiled and shook his head. "The question you need to answer is this: Is it possible that after everything we have been through that you could love me too? I'll wait forever if you give me a reason to hope." She reached up and touched his face, softly skimming his jaw. "If today was the last day I ever saw you, I would love you until the day I die. I love you and I’m sorry I couldn’t say those words before. If it makes any difference, they mean more to me now." He sat down on the porch and pulled her closer. She kneeled on the top step and settled between his legs. With a chuckle, he pressed his lips against hers in a passionate kiss and felt her arms slip around his neck.

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When he pulled away, he saw a contented smile brighten her face. "Happy?" "Most assuredly." Laughing, he stood and pulled her to her feet. When she frowned, he pressed his finger over her lips. Though he could predict her answer, his heart quickened with fear. What if she refused? Pulling a tiny box from his pocket, he sank to one knee. "I’ve carried this with me for two months now. I saw it in Smith’s Jewelers and knew it belonged on your finger. Will you marry me?" *** Angel swallowed hard and blinked back the tears that rose to her eyes as she stared down at the ring he held in his hand. The rather large diamond glittered in the lamplight like a token of eternal love. That was what he was offering her, wasn’t it? A lifetime of his love? She choked back a sob as the tears slipped over her cheeks. She tore her gaze away from the ring and glanced into Reid’s eyes. The green depths beckoned her toward her dreams with honesty and the utmost of tenderness. This wasn’t a half-hearted attempt to follow through with his responsibility. He really meant what he said. He loved her! Finally, she smiled and nodded her head. "Yes. Yes, I will marry you." He stood with a whoop and slipped the ring on her finger with shaky hands. She giggled as he struggled with the tiny gold band and finally pushed it over her knuckle. As he straightened, their gazes met. She stared into his luminous eyes and treasured that very moment, etching it into her memory. She would remember this day forever. All of their children would know about it, their grandchildren too. *** Reid reached forward and touched her face, staring into the sweetness of her gaze. He would remember this day for the rest of his life. He would grow old with her and spend his time memorizing every single freckle…every single inch of her body. And when the time came, he would kiss every wrinkle as soon as it appeared. He would love all of her and would dedicate his whole life to making her happy. He glanced up into the dark sky and saw the stars twinkling back at him. He would tell their children about this night over and over again until they groaned and rolled their eyes. They wouldn’t forget this night either. The night their mother had whispered the sweetest words their father had ever heard. A

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whisper at midnight. He cried out in happiness and pulled her into his arms. She giggled as he buried his face in her hair and twirled her around in a circle. "You’ve made me the happiest man in the world, Angel." When he set her back on her feet, she dabbed at her tears, smiling happily. "I feel like I’m dreamin’." He leaned forward and kissed her, drawing her lower lip between his. When she returned his kiss with full vigor, he inhaled deeply and groaned as his arousal strained against his pants. With a reluctant sigh, he pushed her an arm's length away and took a deep breath. "If I don’t stop now, I never will. We should wait until tonight." She laughed, her eyes taking on a devilish cast. "Tonight? I don’t think so." He frowned and shook his head. "I don’t understand." She blushed and met his gaze. "It won’t be the first time for us, but our wedding night will be special non-the-less. I want to wait." "Ma! I think she finally said yes!" They both burst into laughter, wiping the tears of happiness from their eyes. Reid turned just as the front door burst open, slamming against the wall. Emily Walker rushed forward and took Angel’s hand into her own. She inspected the ring, then grinned, her chest puffing out with pride. He saw her eyes start to water as she looked into her daughter’s eyes. "I may not have always been around because of this ailment, Angela. But I will be here for your wedding. You can’t make me leave." "I don’t want you to leave. I want you right beside me." Reid watched the exchange, his chest tightening with happiness. Angel needed her mother even if she wouldn’t admit it. He would do everything in his power to make sure they saw each other frequently. Emily turned and met his gaze. She smiled and walked closer, extending her hand to him. He took it and kissed her knuckles. "You will make an excellent husband for my daughter, Reid. I look forward to welcoming you into our family." He smiled. "Thank you. I will make her happy." She looked at Angel, her smile brightening. "You already have." Angel came forward and took her mother’s hand. "We must start plannin’ the wedding. We only have a month to prepare." Reid raised an eyebrow at her, remembering her request that they wait to make love until they were married. He wanted her as soon as possible. He wanted to know she was his. Really his. "You have one week." She smiled. "Three weeks." He gritted his teeth. "Two." She nodded her head, her smile widening. "Two it is."

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As they walked ahead of him he heard her mother whisper, "is he always so bossy?" Angel chuckled. "Yes, but I always win."

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Chapter Twenty Angel stared hard at her reflection in the mirror and tilted her head from side to side, examining her dress. She tried to look at it as Reid would when she walked down the aisle and giggled at her foolishness. The seamstress had worked day and night for nearly two weeks to make a wedding gown out of her mother’s simple white cotton dress with pagoda sleeves and a full skirt. The result was nothing less than magnificent. She twirled in front of the mirror and watched the scalloped edges of the hem dance around her feet. Her skirts swished to a halt, her petticoats twisting around her legs. With a contented sigh, she ran her fingers over the embroidered flowers and leaves that ran along her sleeves and down the front of her bodice and skirt. The seamstress deserved far more than the paltry sum she had requested. At the very least, she deserved a crown of jewels for her beautiful work. The dress had turned a dusty outlaw into a princess. Angel glanced back into the mirror and reached up to finger a lock of her hair. Her mother had pulled all of her curls into a coiffure on the back of her head and then had taken the time to tease out little ringlets to frame her face. She had never felt more lovely than she did today. Never. "Oh! Angela, you are so lovely!" She whirled around and met her mother’s gaze. Blushing, she glanced back into the mirror. "Do you think so?" Her mother nodded vigorously. "I’ve never seen a more enchanting bride." "I hope Reid agrees with you." "That man loves you. I know he will." She giggled. "I’m so glad you are here. I don’t think I would make it through this day without you." Her mother pulled her into her embrace and they stood there for several minutes, just holding each other close. "Ahem. Dare we interrupt such a movin’ display of affection?" Angel swiped at the tears prickling the corners of her eyes and turned to smile at Duke and Lee as they moved into the tiny room situated at the back of the church. Lee stepped forward, but Duke’s arm flashed out and stopped him. "I’m the oldest. I get to kiss the bride first." She hid a smile behind her hand and moved into Duke’s arms. He held

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her tight, and then stepped back until she could meet his gaze. His eyes shimmered with unshed tears as he cleared his throat. "I can’t say I’m glad to see you go. What I can say is that I couldn’t ever imagine a better man for you. I know he’ll make you happy." Angel smiled through her tears and reached up to touch his face. "I wanted to wait for the perfect moment to ask a favor of you, but I can’t think of any time better than right now. Will you give me away?" His eyes widened, tears welling up the blue depths. "I would be honored." He leaned forward and planted a kiss on her forehead before moving away to let Lee do the same. As Lee kissed her cheek, she burst into tears. Her mother grabbed her hand and softly cooed in her ear. "What’s wrong with her, ma?" Lee asked. "Your sister is just having a touch of those wedding jitters I was telling you about." Angel shook her head and looked up. "That’s not it. I just feel like…it feels like all of you are saying good-bye! We aren’t even movin’ away. We’ll be living right here in Helena." Her mother patted her hand. "I almost forgot. Duke, Lee…comfort your sister while I’m gone." When her mother finally returned, Angel had controlled her emotions. "Mother, I’m fine. Really." Her mother hurried to her side and sat down next to her on the bench. She pulled a blue velvet box from behind her back and glanced up. "I have something for you. I was saving it for your wedding day." Angel shook her head. "Mother, you didn’t have—" "Shush," she said, opening the top of the box to reveal a sapphire pendant in the shape of a heart dangling from a gold chain. "My mother, God rest her soul, gave this to me on my wedding day. It is only fitting that you pass on the tradition." She swallowed the lump that rose to her throat. "Oh, mother. Thank you!" Her mother slipped the necklace around her neck and fastened it. As the pendant settled between her breasts, the gold immediately warmed to her skin. "It’s beautiful. I will treasure it always." Her mother rose to her feet. "Now, I don’t think we should keep Reid waiting any longer. Lee and I will let the minister know you are ready." Duke picked up her bouquet of pink and white roses resting on a chair, handed it to her, then extended his arm. A muffled tinkle of Beethoven sounded from the next room, signaling that the time had come to make their way down the aisle. Smiling as her heart seemed to race forward without her, she walked beside him and entered the main room of the church.

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Her gaze immediately swept over the crowded pews and met Reid’s. His eyes widened as he looked at her, then narrowed with unabashed pride, a lazy smile brightening his face. She smiled brightly. Feeling weak, she gripped Duke’s arm to keep herself from falling. Slowly, they walked down the narrow aisle toward the man she loved with all of her heart and soul. Reid smiled encouragingly, the tears glittering in his eyes. I love you, he mouthed. I love you too, she whispered back. He closed his eyes, a single tear slipping down his cheek, then opened them and smiled tenderly. Duke led her to Reid and softly placed her hand in his, then walked back to a pew. "Dearly Beloved. We are gathered here today…" "You look beautiful." Her gaze flew to Reid’s, then to the minister’s. No one had heard his declaration but her. She smiled and concentrated on their vows, her heart bursting with happiness. By the end of that day, she would be his…forever. She had waited her whole life for her wedding day and yet, as she stood there listening to the minister, she only wanted to be alone with him. Alone with him as Angela Spencer. Mrs. Reid Spencer. She really liked the sound of that. *** Reid sailed through his vows flawlessly, his gaze never leaving his bride’s. She looked fetching in her wedding gown and he couldn’t wait to get her alone. Suddenly, he wanted to forget the reception her mother had planned and just carry his wife up to their bed and make love to her the whole night. Why had he ever agreed to a reception? Why did any groom ever agree to a reception? It just wasn’t timely. Three hours later, he decided the reception wasn’t as torturous as he had previously thought. On his wedding day he had plenty of viable reasons to kiss his new wife in plain view. He rather liked that. On any other day, the townspeople would sniff with disgust. But today, they smiled behind their hands and gazed into their spouse’s eyes, probably remembering their own wedding day. He gazed down into his wife’s brilliant blue eyes and pulled her close. "Well, Mrs. Spencer. I’m anxious to retire to our house." He saw her blush and smiled. He was going to enjoy coaxing soft moans from her lips. He would make sure she received far more pleasure than was conceivable. Though he knew they had a lifetime of love to look forward to, he wanted to make their wedding night unforgettable. "You will think I’m silly," she said, gazing off into the crowd of dancing

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couples. He frowned, perplexed. "Why would I ever think that?" She glanced up into his gaze, then back to the dance floor. "I’m frightened." Surprise flashed through him with amazing speed. "Why? I won’t hurt you, I promise." She met his gaze and raised an eyebrow. "Now you are being silly. I know you won’t hurt me. It’s just…well, this will be different. It’s our wedding night and I don’t want to disappoint you." He laughed. "Oh dear, sweet, adorable little Angel. You couldn’t ever disappoint me. All you have to do is love me." He tweaked her nose. "And that my dear, is what you do best." Tears welled up in her eyes. "Oh, Reid. The day you don’t know the right thing to say, is the day I’ll know you’ve fallen out of love with me." He shook his head and kissed her. "That day will never come." She giggled. "I believe you. I really, really do." *** "You are being very mysterious, Doctor Spencer," Angel said as she followed her new husband down the hall to their bedroom. "For your benefit, my darling. Simply, for your benefit. Now close your eyes." Chuckling, she did as he requested, excitement making her heart beat just a little quicker. "Are you peeking?" She shook her head. "I’m not." "Are you telling me the truth?" She sighed in exasperation, opened her eyes and glared at him. "Do you doubt me?" He grinned, his eyes lighting up with happiness and love. "No. Now close your eyes." Again, she did as he asked and didn’t dare peek or risk being caught. Her senses intensified, waiting for some sort of clue. The door creaked open, followed by the enticing scent of roses in the air. She hoped she could equal his expectations. She swallowed hard as a hundred butterflies seemed to flap aimlessly in her stomach. "You can open your eyes now." Slowly, her lashes parted. She gasped, her hand raising to finger the lace collar of her wedding gown. His attention to detail? What an understatement! Her gaze darted around the room; stopping at each of the burning

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candles lighting the room. Next to each one was a beautifully arranged bouquet of roses, adding to the romantic detail. The tears gathered in her eyes as her gaze swept over the bed. Sprinkled over the white cotton sheets were numerous rose petals. He had worked hard to make this day special for her. Yet, this was the most moving of all of his efforts. "You are a most amazin’ man and I am so gifted to have the privilege of calling you my husband." He reached forward, took her hand into his and brought it to his lips. "I’ve thought the same of you several times today. I don’t know what I did to deserve you." She sighed dreamily. "I want this night to be perfect." "It already is." She leaned forward and kissed him softly. "I want you to make love to me. Now." He chuckled and led her over to the bed. "All in due time, my sweet. The most intriguing part of making love is the anticipation. I want to make you quiver with desire." The husky tone to his voice swept through her like a storm. She shivered as all of the nerves in her body tingled with longing. His grin widened. "That’s a start." She stared at him. "You’re teasin’ me." His fingers fumbled over the buttons of her dress. "Perhaps." When he finished, she stepped out of the dress and started to pull her chemise over her head, but his hands stopped her. "Not yet." She watched his head dip to rain kisses over her shoulders. Each touch of his lips against her skin sent pleasure to the core of her being. She let her head fall back and gripped his arms as the sensations washed over her. "I don’t know if I can take much more of this," she rasped. His lips and tongue suckled her right nipple through her chemise. She cried out, her legs quivering with weakness. Just before she slid to the floor, he swept her up into his arms and carried her to the bed. He quickly rid her of the remaining clothing and laid her back on the quilts. She watched him strip out of his shirt, her gaze locked with his. "I love you, Reid." He smiled, stepped out of his trousers and threw them on the chair. "I love you more." She let her gaze slip down his body with uninhibited interest. He was ready for her. More than ready. His manhood was rock hard and pulsed with his desire. How was he able to hold back? The desire pushing through her own body was unbearable. Remembering the way he had made love to her their first time, she sat up and pulled him closer. She rained kisses over his hard flesh, then flicked her

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tongue around him. "Oh God. Angel!" he cried out, his legs trembling. She continued loving him with her mouth until his breath came out in rapid bursts. She knew he was close to his release and slowed the movements of her tongue. Anticipation, he had said, was the key to lovemaking. She felt his hands on her shoulder as he pushed her back, slipping out of her mouth, and joined her on the bed. He moved his head back and forth from one of her breasts to the other, his tongue flicking over her nipples. She cried out and arched up off the bed, her body trembling with desire. "I could make love to you for hours." She smiled. "I would like that." "As would I." He kissed her belly button, then continued down to the patch of hair between her thighs. The breath hissed through her teeth as he pressed her legs apart, his breath tickling the sensitive skin. His fingers searched among the soft folds, and she held her breath. His hands teased her, stopped, and then continued. Just when she thought it would end, he plunged into her. She arched up into him, wanting to feel him deeper and deeper still. Her body trembled as he pulled and pushed his finger in and out until she couldn’t think of anything but the release. Just as it came, his hand stilled. She groaned in disappointment as the feelings dissipated into a consuming need. "T-trust me." When his mouth replaced his fingers, she cried out and reached down, pulling his head against her. His tongue flicked back and forth, back and forth, up, down, up, down. She cried out and exploded into a million stars, the pleasure wracking her body. As she floated down from the euphoria, she sensed the tip of him pushing inside. Wanting to give him the pleasure he had just given to her, she reached up, grabbed his hips and pulled him inside of her. "Oh God. You are so beautiful," he said, beginning to thrust into her. She pulled him down on top of her and buried her face in his neck as he labored to his own release. She opened her legs wider as he pumped into her, wanting to experience all of him. As the sensations built, one on top of the other, she forgot to breathe. She gasped and tensed against him. The feelings continued to build…higher and higher. It had never been like this before. It frightened her. She clenched her legs around his hips and lifted her pelvis, then dropped it… up, down. Frustrated, she worked against him, looking for that relief that waited for her only a few minutes away. "I’m a-afraid. It’s too…," she panted.

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He kissed her face and plunged his tongue inside of her mouth. His thrusts slowed as he looked down into her eyes, his face tensing with control. "Are you ready?" She nodded. "Now." He pushed into her, over and over again, faster…faster still. She spread her legs wider and arched up into him. He moaned in her ear, his breathing ragged and hoarse. "Oh Angel, I can’t wait…any…longer." She felt him swell and spill his warm seed inside of her. Knowing he was finding his pleasure as his body convulsed against her only intensified her desire. She cried out his name and thrust her hips against him, finding her own release. *** Reid held a strawberry up to Angel’s lips and watched her take a bite out of it, a thin line of juice dribbling down her chin. He leaned forward and licked it up, eliciting a giggle from her. She was even more beautiful after an entire night of lovemaking. She was his. Finally, she was his. "I think we’ll always be this happy, Reid." He smiled and tilted his head. "What makes you think so?" "Because you adore me." He raised an eyebrow. "I do?" "Well, you do don’t you?" "I wouldn’t say that ‘adore’ is the right word." She turned toward him and frowned. "Well, what is the right word then?" He thought about her question for a moment, then smiled. "Tolerate." "Oh!" she said, hitting his arm. "You more than tolerate me." He laughed. "I suppose I do, but it’s an aged experience, I assure you." She smiled, her sapphire eyes bright with happiness. "Do you think you’ll love me more when we’re sixty?" He shook his head, enjoying their game. "No, I doubt it. Sixty years will only teach me how to ignore you and blame it on my hearing." Her eyes widened. "Oh you’re terrible!" He blinked his eyes innocently. "Terrible? That’s not what you said this morning." She blinked at him, then pouted. "I lost! I can’t believe I lost. I don’t have anythin’ to say to that." Wanting to ease her wounded pride, he leaned forward and kissed her. Not just a peck on the lips, but passionately. Moments later, her arms circled his neck and pulled him closer. She sighed. "Make love to me again, Reid." "I thought you would never ask."

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Epilogue Reid took a large gulp of whiskey and swallowed hard as it burned a path into his stomach. He turned and regarded Duke. "How long has it been since the doctor arrived?" Angel’s brother raised an eyebrow at him. "Five minutes since the last time you asked." He grinned sheepishly. "I have asked quite frequently, haven’t I?" "Disturbingly so." He crossed the room, pulled a chair up next to Duke and sat down. "This waiting could kill a man. She’s up there giving birth to our child, and I’m forced to sit down here because it’s proper. All I want is to be up there…with her." Duke’s eyes softened sympathetically. "You’re worried about her, aren’t you?" Reid nodded slowly, swallowing the lump that formed in his throat. "She’s lost one child already. I don’t think she could survive losing another." "I don’t think she could either." Reid glanced down at his hands and tried to ignore the worry niggling at his mind. The last nine months were pure bliss. They both had taken the news of Angel’s pregnancy with unreserved happiness and hope. Angel more than he. He had never seen a woman knit as many baby blankets and sweaters in such a short amount of time. Yet, she had to prepare for the greatest joy given to a couple. He sighed and ran his hand through his hair. "She can’t lose this child, Duke. I would lose them both…for good." "You won’t. She’s had a normal pregnancy. You said so yourself." A scream floated down the stairs, chasing all the warmth from his body. He stood and raced for the stairs, the tears blinding him. She couldn’t lose the child. God wouldn’t be so cruel. Not twice. He threw open the door and saw the doctor hand the bloody infant to Angel’s mother. The child’s arms were waving back and forth in the air. The baby was alive. His gaze flew to Angel. She lay propped up in the bed and smiled hesitantly, her eyes filling with tears. "Is the baby all right, Reid?" He glanced to the doctor. "Answer her damn it!" The doctor frowned at him, then walked forward and positioned the baby in Reid’s arms. "You have a healthy baby girl." "A girl?" Angel squeaked, breaking into sobs. Reid looked down into the little face staring up at him, his heart swelling

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with love. She was so perfect…a tiny image of Angel. He reached forward and slipped his finger into his daughter’s tiny hand. She gripped it with surprising strength and gurgled quietly. He glanced to Angel, barely seeing through his tears. God had blessed him. He had everything he had ever wanted. She smiled and tilted her head. "Does she meet your approval?" she teased. He nodded and sat next to her on the bed. Leaning forward, he kissed her affectionately. "She’s perfect." *** Angel smiled as she looked down at her daughter. The auburn curls were hers. The dimples were Reid’s. Her heart warmed with happiness. The result of their love was this little package of innocence. A little girl who would grow up with ideals and her own dreams and desires. "What will you name her, Angela?" She looked up and smiled at her mother, then looked to Reid. "We were too afraid to plan on much of anything. If the child hadn’t survived…" Reid’s lips tickled her temple, and she cuddled against him. She wouldn’t think about that now. She had more than enough to be happy for. She had a man that she loved more than life itself and that love had created this beautiful baby. She swallowed hard and blinked back the tears that rose to her eyes. "I like Isabelle. We can call her Izzie," Reid said. Angel looked up in surprise, then smiled. "Belle." He seemed to think about that for a moment and then nodded. "As always, you win." "I love you." He smiled, his dimples deepening. "I love you more." She pulled him close and kissed him passionately. When she sat back, he was staring down at her, the desire so clearly evident in his eyes. She laughed. "I think I know what I would like to do when I am well again." "What’s that, love?" "I’d like to make a little brother for Belle." His grin widened. "We can name him William. Billy for short." She scrunched her nose. "Billy is so childish. Now, Will. That’s a fine name. Don ’t you think? Reid? Reid?" The End

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jennifer is interested in anything historical though her heart has always been drawn to the west. She's been known to take pictures for hours of historical buildings or leaf through hundreds of old files in Historical Societies around the country . . .much to the dismay of her traveling companions. So, it's no wonder her first book is a western historical romance. Jennifer currently resides in Washington where she is hard at work on her second western historical romance.