The Charlotte Series: Book 3: The Pretender's Gold

40

Chapter 40

As soon as they were out of sight of the ranch Hank pulled up and waited for the others.

"They're going to Lincoln. I don't know why they took Summer or what business they think they have there. I can tell you that Lincoln is not a good place to be right now. There's a war going on and the town's split in two. The law's corrupt and gunmen roam the streets."

"We're not unfamiliar with battle." Richard said patting his pistol.

"Speak for yourself." Freddie mumbled.

"Freddie's right. This is no honorable duel. They won't be playing fair." Stu piped up and turned toward Freddie. "With Lane injured, that leaves Dorcas and the children in a bad place. I have respect that you're willing to come with us. That shows courage and loyalty that I can never really repay. But I think it would be safer—for Dorcas and the children—"

"Don't worry." Freddie chuckled. "You haven't offended my manhood. I know when I'm in over my head. It would be an honor to watch over your children until you return. Be careful, my friends."

"I'll be careful, but if—"

"You'll be back." Freddie interrupted.

"Right." Stu nodded.

"Right." Hank's words were clipped with his impatience. "If we ride hard, we can—"

"No." Quin cut in. "We've already ridden these animals hard. We have to rest them tonight or they'll drop underneath us."

Hank growled as he yanked his hat off and jammed his fingers through his hair. Quin was the voice of reason, and at the moment that didn't make him the favorite.

"My wife and infant daughter were abducted by bandits. We trailed them for two weeks before we caught up to them in a canyon. She nearly died that day while protecting our daughter." Quin's voice was calm and steady. "So, believe me when I say I understand your anxiety."

"Is that supposed to be a comfort?" Stu snapped. His heart was thumping as he thought of his own dear love.

"It is." Quin answered evenly. "You know that I can empathize with your fears. But you should also know that I won't let it dictate our actions."

"I can see why you made Major." Hank answered with a deep sigh. "As much as my heart is telling me to ride this pony into the ground, I know that you are right. We need to do what's best for my sister."

"We can push on until just after dark to rest the horses. We'll break camp at first light." The men nodded agreement and Quin added "It's our only chance to keep up with them if they run because their mounts will be rested."

Stu quietly listened to their exchange, ceding to their knowledge of the area and their experience with the rustlers, but he was anxious to get moving. His stomach rebelled as he wrestled with the fear and anger churning there. It was all he could do to stay calm.

"Lead on." Stu barked.

That night as he lay on his bedroll and stared up at the sky, his heart ached. He still didn't know what had become of his wife. Quin assured them they'd made good time and would catch up to their quarry tomorrow. It did little to ease his concerns as he closed his eyes and willed himself to sleep. Summer's life may very well depend upon him being in his best form.

Stu turned on his side and tried not to think about the fact that he couldn't reach for Summer.

Funny how quickly he'd grown accustomed to her presence.