Nate's Destiny by Shirleen Davies

Author:Shirleen Davies
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Avalanche Ranch Press LLC
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twelve

Settlers Valley

“The trip couldn’t have been easier. We didn’t see anyone, and Black never made a move to take over the wagon. The sheriff met us at the bank with his men, we unloaded, and Black took off.” Colt leaned against a post at the livery.

Setting down the bridle he’d been working on, Nate straightened. “I followed the wagon the last quarter mile. When I didn’t see anyone and Black didn’t make a move, I turned off at the edge of town.”

Colt scrubbed a hand down his face. “Maybe I’m wrong and he’s in it for whatever money Nettles is paying him. The gold might not be a factor.”

“So arrest Black and haul him back to Conviction.”

Shaking his head, Colt rubbed the back of his neck. “I can’t shake the feeling he’s after a load and is waiting for the right moment. The man doesn’t know how to live unless he’s robbing or hurting someone.”

Crossing his arms, Nate looked through the open doorway to the forge. Marcus worked on a set of horseshoes, paying no attention to the men in back. “When’s the next shipment?”

“I don’t know. Black rode off right after we unloaded the gold. My guess is I’ll hear from him the night before the next load, the same as before.”

“Let me know.”

Colt shook his head. “There’s no reason for you to be involved, Nate.”

“If Black’s plan is to take the gold, he’ll kill you and the other guard. He isn’t going to share the wealth with anyone.”

“I’ll be ready if that’s what he intends.”

“You can’t be vigilant all the time, Colt.” Nate picked up the bridle, holding it up to check his work. “All you need to do is tell me when Black needs you at the mine.”

“Assuming he plans to guard another shipment.”

Chuckling, Nate stared up at him. “Do you truly believe Black set himself up in this position without intending to steal whatever he can?”

Colt pursed his lips, shaking his head. “No. There’s a reason for every move the man makes.”

“The way I see it, you have two choices. Arrest him and haul him back to Conviction…maybe on to Texas. Or stay with him until he makes a move. If he does what you think, you can arrest him to stand trial in Settlers Valley.” Nate tugged on the bridle, making certain the work he’d done would hold, then set it down. “Of course, if his intent is to steal the gold, the man could end up getting himself shot.”

Colt didn’t try to suppress a slight grin. “It’s been known to happen.”

“Colt?” Marcus walked toward them, holding out a piece of paper. “This is for you.”

“Thanks.” Taking it, he read the contents of the short telegram, not looking up as he read it aloud. “‘Bring to Conviction. Giles Delacroix to testify against Jolly.’” He glanced at Nate. “It’s from Brodie. Do you want to hear what else he wrote?”

Nodding, he swiped an arm across his forehead. “Sure.”

“‘Bring Nate back with you.’” Chuckling, Colt folded the message, sliding it into a pocket.

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