Corralling Callie by Smarts Amelia

Author:Smarts, Amelia [Smarts, Amelia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Stormy Night Publications
Published: 2016-08-18T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter Seven: Callie’s Friend

The party assembled in front of the stagecoach, which was strapped to four fresh horses. Jude observed everyone and felt satisfied that they appeared well-rested. Callie looked especially bright and energetic. He’d risen early to request a bath be drawn. When he left the room, she’d scrubbed off all the grime from travel. He tried not to imagine her naked in the bath, and he tried not to notice how pretty she looked when she joined him outside. Her porcelain skin looked so soft he longed to touch it, and her green eyes sparkled under long, thick lashes.

Jude himself felt quite a bit better after his bath. It made him feel civilized. He would enjoy it while it lasted. It would be some time before they would be able to rest again like they were able to do in Paselo. The next leg of the journey was mostly desert and, while the roads weren’t too rough, it would be a hot and miserable experience. He would also need to be on the lookout for Pawnee and road agents. If they struck at all, it would likely be during the next stretch.

Coming to a decision, he addressed Billy. “I want you and your gun in the box with me during this leg. I need you to watch for any trouble.”

Billy agreed and climbed up to the seat. Jude looked at Callie and wasn’t at all surprised by her wounded expression, which she focused on him without reservation. Her brows were pulled together in an angry frown, and he knew he would need to talk to her to make sure she behaved. He doubted she would so quickly forget the lesson he’d imparted the evening before, but a reminder wouldn’t hurt.

He crooked his finger, indicating that she was to come to him. She sighed and ambled over.

“You’d better wipe that pout off your face, girl,” Jude said mildly, giving her the opportunity to express her displeasure.

Predictably, she scowled at him. “I’m a good shot. You don’t believe me, but I can prove it to you. Just give me your Colt for two shakes and I’ll blow your mind.”

“That’s what I’m afraid of,” was his dry response. “Besides, I want you safe in the coach. Let the menfolk be in charge of sorting things, should something happen.”

When she crossed her arms and continued to glare at him, he spoke sternly. “I expect you to behave yourself, young lady. This next stretch could be dangerous, and I need you to mind me, just like I need the others to do. I know they will, but I’m afraid you might give me trouble. Am I right to fear that?”

Her face morphed into a look of resignation, and she uncrossed her arms. “I won’t give you any trouble, Jude. But can I sit with you during the next leg?”

He nodded. “Yes. Now get in the coach. And don’t be making a nuisance of yourself unless you want a repeat of last night.”

She scowled once again.

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