A Sensible Arrangement by Tracie Peterson

Author:Tracie Peterson
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Tags: FIC042030, FIC042040, FIC042000, Brides—Fiction, Texas—Fiction
ISBN: 9781441263537
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Published: 2014-02-19T05:00:00+00:00

Alice had just finished doing up the buttons on the back of Marty’s shirtwaist when a knock sounded on the dressing room door. Alice hurried to answer it and found Mr. Wythe holding a long wooden box.

“Good morning, Alice.” He moved right past her without waiting for an invitation. “And how have you enjoyed your Saturday, wife?”

“We’ve been ever so busy,” Marty declared. “I’ve changed into my second ensemble and am ready to face another few hours of boredom before lunch is served. What about you?”

“I was out shopping first thing this morning and brought you a gift.”

Alice decided now would be a good time to see to the ironing that needed her attention. She walked to the far end of the room to gather the necessary articles of clothing.

“I think you’ll like what I have here,” Jake told Marty.

Alice heard Mrs. Wythe respond, but couldn’t make out the words. How wonderful to have a husband who surprised you with gifts. Mr. Wythe certainly loves her a great deal. His entire face lights up when he sees her. How I long for someone to love me like that.

Touching her hand to her cheek, Alice couldn’t help but be reminded that she was forever marred. The scar would fade a bit, the doctor said, but she would always bear the reminder. He had told her she was fortunate that the damage had been mostly superficial. Apparently the attacker knew exactly how deep to cut without causing greater damage to the nerves and muscle beneath.

“It’s perfect!” Marty squealed in delight.

Alice turned to find her hoisting a shotgun out of the wooden box. She found it strange that her mistress should get so excited about a weapon. Trying not to eavesdrop, Alice focused her attention on the clothes, only to hear something that made her blood run cold.

“If that window peeper decides to return,” Marty told her husband, “I’ll brandish this in his face and see if he’s still inclined to steal from us.”

“I figure he’ll forget about us mighty quick,” he said, his southern drawl becoming more pronounced. “Once he sees that my little Texas wife can shoot, well, he’ll mosey along and leave my womenfolk alone.” They laughed together over this.

Alice froze at Mr. Wythe’s comment. So the man had returned. Icy fingers went up her spine. They were looking for her, no doubt. But why? They’d taken the satchel from her father. What else were they looking for?

Her mind scrambled for an answer as fear welled within her. These men seemed unwilling to leave her alone. They had come to the hospital asking after her. They had eventually located her with church friends. In fact, their threats were the biggest reason her hosts had left Denver. They had wanted Alice to come with them, but she knew the men would only follow. But why? What did they want?

“I couldn’t help but pick this up for you, as well,” Mr. Wythe announced. He drew out a small jewelry box and opened the lid.

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