The Reliable Cowboy by Susan Page Davis

Author:Susan Page Davis
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: romance, western, christian
Publisher: Susan Page Davis

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Isabella’s heart fluttered as she prepared for her evening with Edwin. Only a handful of women from the “angels” group was left now, and she wondered if she would be the last one wed. They had all heard how Jake Underwood and his friend, Matt Thomas, had recruited the group of prospective grooms by telling them they could have a Christmas angel—a wife by Christmas time. Christmas was still nearly two months away, but Isabella couldn’t help wondering if she would really be wed by then. Unless Mr. Leman chose Edwin as his new foreman, there seemed little chance of that happening.

She spent half an hour meticulously ironing her best dress. This was done in the kitchen, since she had to repeatedly heat the flatiron on the woodstove. As the appointed time approached, she arranged her hair carefully. Memories of their last outing cautioned her not to get too excited. It was possible Edwin would be late again—or even miss their date entirely. But she had to believe he would be on time. He had promised to make every effort, so that she wouldn’t worry. Yet.

When she was ready, she sat down in the common room with her coat beside her. The evenings were cold now, maybe colder than in Maine. That came from being up in the mountains, she supposed.

Another of the brides spoke to her before leaving with her intended. Isabella sighed and settled back in her chair. She schooled herself not to be annoyed if Edwin was tardy.

A knock at the door startled her, and she scrambled up, her heart racing. Was it really him? If so, he wasn’t late at all.

She raced to the door and paused to draw in a deep breath before she opened it.

“Edwin! Good evening.”

“Hi.” He smiled so broadly, Isabella wondered if she looked especially nice tonight.

She realized she had left her coat in the other room. “I’m ready, but I need to get my wrap.”

He nodded, and she hurried to get it. Edwin held it for her and waited while she buttoned it, then opened the door.

“The Eatery?” he asked.

“That will be lovely.” What else could she say, when their choices were so limited? Even so, she hoped the cook would offer something this time besides rice and noodles. She had barely been able to find a few bits of meat in her portion the last time. She took Edwin’s arm and smiled up at him.

“I got some news today,” he said as they set off down the boardwalk.

“Oh?” She adjusted her step to his limping gait.

“The foreman’s leaving next week.”

Isabella’s heart pounded as she waited for his next words.

“Mr. Leman says we can—well, I can have the foreman’s house right away. Next weekend, if I want.” He paused and looked down into her eyes. “Isabella, I … would you marry me? Next Sunday? The preacher will be here.”

Her relief was so strong, she could feel it rushing through her veins. “Yes.” A little laugh burbled up inside her and escaped her lips.

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