The Rancher’s Bride by Stella Clark

Author:Stella Clark [Clark, Stella]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: historical romance, Women's Fiction, Victorian Era, 19th Century, Forever Love, Bachelor, Single Woman, Love Possibility, Frontier-Pioneer Era, Cowboy & Western Romance, Hearts Desire, American West, Clean & Wholesome, Christian Stories, Faith Based, Inspirational Reads, Love Inspired, Life-Changes, Second Chance Reunion, Honesty & Trust, Home & Family, Lifetime Love, Romantic Schemes, Love-Family & Forever, Action & Adventure, Small Town & Rural Area, Mail-Order Bride Series, marriage of convenience, Novella Length Story
Publisher: Aryn House Publishing
Published: 2019-02-06T05:00:00+00:00

Chapter Eight

“Are you sure?”

She stopped biting her lip and offered her husband a tight smile. He asked her that all the time, just in case she wasn’t certain. Though Hollie firmly believed that he meant well, being asked that question repeatedly was a little tiresome.

“I am, yes. The ranch is important, after all. You’ve told me enough about the animals out there that I trust you’ll keep yourself safe. And your men, of course.” Hollie finished tying the braid and pinned it up around her head. “One night should be fine.” To her relief, her voice didn’t waver.

Still, it didn’t set well with Anton. He had left for a few nights at a time, covering his land and tracking the animals in the pastures. But it would be the first time they spent a night apart since she’d arrived, and she didn’t blame him for not feeling confident about leaving this time around. Internally, Hollie was terrified. Anything might come their way. Strangers, natives, bears, mountain lions, snakes, and worse. Most would keep to themselves, but trouble could come from anywhere, and Hollie didn’t know how to handle anything outside of a house.

With a sigh, Anton took a step forward, but didn’t reach for her. Instead, he fiddled with his hat. “I should have taught you how to shoot. That would make me feel mighty better, knowing you could protect yourself. Paul knows a thing or two, and we’ve talked about it plenty, but I still don’t like it.” He wore a deep frown, and she watched the crease in his forehead grow deeper.

“Nor do I,” she offered, taking a step closer. Hollie searched his eyes, trying to see if he worried because of the house or because of her. How much did he care for his second wife? She tried not to think such thoughts, knowing she had accepted this particular role for what it was, but sometimes she couldn’t help but wonder. “But you have to take care of this ranch. When you do, you’re taking care of us. It’s like how I take care of the house; it’s for all of us.”

“You said it yourself,” she reminded him. “Paul can help if someone comes. I’ll keep the bolts in, and we’ll keep the windows shut. You’ve done this before, and you’ll do it again. I’m positive all will be well, Anton.”

Though she looked more serious than he’d ever seen her before, Anton couldn’t help but be reminded that she was still a young woman. He knew she woke up at the wolves howling and jumped when animals crossed their paths. Studying her face, he remembered again just how pretty she was. Not a typical beauty, but there was this reservoir of strength within her and, combined with the compassion she gave to his children every day, she was a remarkable woman. How had she ended up here with them?

The question made him uncomfortable, and he looked away. Things had always been so easy with Julie. He just wished he could remember how that had happened and how to make it work with Hollie as well.

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