A Headstrong Woman

chapter Ten

“What on earth happened now?” Anna demanded as she watched her sister dismount and climb the porch steps.

“Rustlers stole our cattle and then shot at us when we tried to retrieve them,” Alexandria watched her sister frown.

“Alexandria, are you sure trying to run this ranch by yourself is such a good idea?” Anna demanded.

“I’m not giving up, Anna,” Alexandria’s chin was raised and her jaw firm; she was not a quitter. Alexandria dismissed the topic and moved inside to change from her wet clothing. She was soon redressed and joining the others in the kitchen. Jonathon sat at the table, Anna across from him.

“I think I will be glad for the end of this day,” Alexandria predicted as she eased into a chair. She was feeling rather stiff at the moment.

“I’ll get you coffee,” Anna jumped up to see after her sister.

“Thanks, Anna,” Alexandria offered her sister a smile.

“I sent Sparky for the sheriff. I’m more concerned that these thieves shot at you than I am the missing cattle.” Jonathon looked grim as he took a drink of his own coffee.

“I want my cattle back,” Alexandria grumbled.

“Well, right now, you are all to eat,” Millie said firmly as she placed the last dish on the table.

“Thanks, Millie; join us and don’t bother arguing. I think it’s clear that we don’t stand on formality around here,” Alexandria insisted.

“Thank you,” the woman seated herself.

Conversation remained fairly light over dinner despite, or perhaps because of, the day’s traumatic events. None of them were anxious to dwell on their issues.

“I want another cookie,” Lilly announced after dinner as the table was being cleared.

“Two is enough,” Alexandria argued.

“I want another!” Lilly’s lower lip thrust out.

“Lillian Marie, when I say no, it means no,” Alexandria countered. Lilly looked ready to argue further, but stopped short and cut her eyes in Jonathon’s direction; she seemed to think better of it at the last moment. She scooted from her seat and went to climb into Jonathon lap instead.

“She’s a spitfire isn’t she?” Jonathon eyes lit with mischief.

“She is,” Alexandria acknowledged.

“Are you sure she isn’t yours?”

Alexandria, her hands on her hips, turned to glare at Jonathon.

“I think it’s time for me to go; the sheriff should be here soon,” he announced as he stood and placed Lilly on her feet.

“Good night ladies; see you in the morning, Alexandria,” Jonathon claimed his hat and let himself out.

“You know, don’t you, that he wouldn’t aggravate you if it didn’t get a response from you?” Millie asked.

Alexandria shook her head and turned back to the dishes. “He is so frustrating! Helpful and nice one minute and aggravating the next,” she said as she plunged her hands into the soapy water.

“Most men are, dear, most men are,” Millie chuckled.

***

Alexandria moaned in misery as she rolled from the bed the next morning. Her shoulder hurt so bad that she wanted nothing more than to remain in bed. Her body over all was rather stiff, she realized as she began dressing. It was with slow steps and movements that she entered Lilly’s room to dress the child for the day. She stopped only to rush forward a moment later. Her daughter was not in her bed. Alexandria turned and moved to her sister’s room. If her sister was up then she had likely dressed her for the day, but Anna would have made the bed; it wasn’t made.

“Anna,” Alexandria opened the door and peered into the room.

“Hmm?” Anna sat up and blinked at her sister groggily.

“I can’t find Lilly,” Alexandria was starting to panic now. She turned from her sister’s room and checked the bathroom before hurrying down the steps; she was wincing as she went.

“Good morning,” Millie greeted from where she was just setting the coffee pot onto the stove; it was further evidence to how early Alexandria was up.

“Have you seen Lilly?” Alexandria demanded.

“No,” Millie instantly looked concerned. Alexandria searched the house, her panic rising with each empty room. Anna and Millie were now in on the search as well. Alexandria thought her heart would leap from her chest when she noted that the back door was not pulled completely to. She rushed through the door and slammed into Jonathon.

“Whoa, what’s wrong?” Jonathon steadied her by her arms.

“Lilly’s missing. I’ve searched the whole house and the back door was cracked,” she explained.

“Are you sure she isn’t inside?” Jonathon was frowning now.

“She’s nowhere inside.”

“Double check while I look out here,” he instructed.

Alexandria nodded and returned to the house. Jonathon scanned the area, where could the child have gone? He noted a small foot print at the base of the porch steps and felt his heart leap. At least she had left the house of her own volition; that was good. Considering all that had happened as of late, his fears ran rampant. Another print and another, they were going in the general direction of the barn, though they had obviously been obscured by some of the men coming and going on their horses.

Jonathon decided to start with the barn, though he wasn’t certain how she would have gotten inside. He opened the smaller door and stepped inside and stopped to let his eyes adjust to the dim interior. After reaching for a lantern he began searching.

“Lilly,” he peered into each stall. He was about to give up when the sound of movement overhead pulled him to the loft ladder. Relief flooded him as he topped the ladder. His relief was quickly replaced by concern. Lilly sat cross legged in the hay, a kitten snuggled to her. Evidence of recent tears stained her face.

“Hey sweetheart, your mama is scared silly. What are you doing out here?” Jonathon moved to squat in front of the child.

“I dreamed Papa was in here,” her blue eyes filled with tears again.

“Oh, sweetie, I’m sorry. Did you know my wife died? I dream of her sometimes too,” Jonathon shared. “Can I take you back in now? Your mama is scared something happened to you.”

Lilly nodded and reached to be lifted with one arm. Jonathon lifted her into his arms and carefully descended the ladder to make his way to the house. Lilly, sobs still occasionally racking her small body, snuggled against him. They entered the house just as Alexandria was descending the stairs.

“Lilly!” Alexandria rushed forward to take the child; her own tears spilled over again. “I was so worried something had happened to you!”

“She had a dream that her daddy was in the barn,” Jonathon shared and watched fresh pain fill Alexandria’s face as she cuddled her daughter close and rubbed her small back.

“If Lilly is okay, why is Alexandria hysterical?” Anna joined them.

“I think everything has finally caught up with your sister, would you take Lilly and dress her please?” Jonathon requested.

“Of course,” Anna took the child from Alexandria. “Oh! You have a kitty!”

“She’s okay, Alexandria,” Jonathon assured her.

“I am a horrible mother! I lost my child!” Alexandria couldn’t seem to get her tears under control.

“Come here,” Jonathon pulled Alexandria close and stroked her back much as she had been doing Lilly moments earlier. “You are an excellent mother. Lilly is not the first, nor will she be the last, I’m sure, to slip out unnoticed. I’m sure you need only ask your own mother, and I know mine for a fact, to have that confirmed,” Jonathon assured her.

“I feel like I’m failing her, Jonathon. I don’t know how to help her.”

“You’re doing fine with her, Alexandria. If you weren’t the child would not be as confident and well balanced as she is. She would still be clinging as she did at her father’s funeral, but she isn’t; she’s secure with you.”

“You think so?” Alexandria leaned back and stared up at him hopefully.

“I do,” he nodded.

“I’m sorry, Jonathon; I didn’t mean to go to pieces,” she was regaining control of herself now. She stepped out of his arms and claimed her bandana from her pocket to wipe her tears away.

“You have been through a lot lately, Alexandria. I’m surprised you haven’t gone to pieces a lot sooner.”

“Still,” Alexandria offered him a self-derisive smile and a shrug. She immediately winced and watched Jonathon’s gaze narrow.

“You’re sore aren’t you?” he accused.

“A little,” she admitted.

“Stay in today, Alexandria; rest, spend time with your daughter, and take a day for yourself.”

“I really shouldn’t…”

“You really should; I insist,” Jonathon countered.

Alexandria bit her lower lip and debated it. “Okay,” she finally nodded. She was exhausted, sore, and she missed her daughter.

“Good, you’ll feel better tomorrow; I promise,” he offered her a smile.

“Thanks, Jonathon.”

“Welcome.”

After helping clean up from breakfast, Alexandria sat down to read to Lilly and to enjoy her daughter’s company. She had forgotten how nice it was to play with the child and enjoy her company; there had been little time for it lately. Even now she had to force herself not to close herself in the office with work that was piling up there.

“Come on, squirt; nap time,” Alexandria announced after lunch. Lilly put up a mild protest but was quickly tucked in and was asleep before Alexandria had even finished reading her a story.

Alexandria had just reached the bottom of the stairs when a knock sounded on the door. Alexandria was thankful that she had changed into one of her mourning dresses that morning.

“Hello, Lane,” she greeted her old friend somewhat cautiously.

“Hello, Alexandria,” he fiddled with the hat in his hands.

“Come in,” Alexandria invited as she stepped back from the door. Lane followed her into the living room and paused uncertainly.

“I wanted to apologize again for being so unreasonable in town…I know you are doing what you have to, Alexandria. I’m just worried for you. Ranching is hard for a man, let alone a single mother.”

“Thank you for your concern, Lane, I appreciate it, but I’m managing.” At least she hoped she was.

“It’s not easy though is it?” his eyes were as soulful as a puppy’s.

“No, it isn’t,” she admitted as she seated herself on the settee. Seemingly more relaxed now that he had made his apologies, Lane joined her.

“You always were stubborn,” he accused with a playful pat on her back. At Alexandria’s wince he frowned.

“I had a bit of an accident yesterday,” Alexandria admitted.

“Are you alright; what happened?” Lane was alert now.

“I fell off my horse, twice.”

“But you’re an excellent rider!” Lane protested. The whole community knew she could ride; she had made it clear when she had out ridden several of the boys in her class in an after school race.

“The first was my fault, I was careless. The second…” Alexandria wished she hadn’t said anything; he would overreact.

“What, Alexandria?”

“I was investigating some missing cattle when a shot startled my horse,” she hedged.

“Startled your horse? Were you shot at?” Lane was on his feet again.

“I’m fine, Lane and the sheriff already knows about it.”

“A fat lot of good that will do, Alexandria; the man is a joke and you know it.”

It was unfortunately true. The man investigated what suited him and let the rest slide. He was buddies with several town officials; he could be in any of their pockets best Alexandria could tell. Out and out violence in town at least got investigated; otherwise he would never be reelected.

“I’m fine, Lane.”

“What were you doing out there to begin with? I thought your foreman was looking out for you!”

“Excuse me? I said he was helping me.”

“Your father….”

“What?” Alexandria was standing now. “You discussed my business with my father?”

“I was concerned.”

“Lane, I am not your concern. I appreciate your friendship but you have over stepped your bounds!”

Lane, his face red, stood opposite her. Alexandria was still waiting for him to respond when a knock sounded on the door.

“Excuse me,” Alexandria turned and moved from the room; her steps were clipped with anger. She paused to collect herself before opening the door.

“Mr. Price,” her brows furrowed slightly; since when did he pay her social calls?

“Mrs. Morris, I hope you are well this afternoon,” Tristan bowed slightly.

“I am; thank you. Won’t you come in?” she invited.

“Thank you,” he removed his hat as he entered. He was dressed in his Sunday best; Alexandria’s frown deepened. She had only a passing acquaintance with the man, even if he was her closest neighbor. Alexandria led him into the parlor where Lane, his back to them, waited as he peered out the window.

“Lane, I’m sure that you and Mr. Price are acquainted, both being in business as you are,” Alexandria offered in way of greeting.

“Yes, of course, I often see Mr. Price around town and also in Jasper when my business takes me there. Good afternoon, Mr. Price,” Lane offered.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Wilson. I do believe you’ve visited a business of mine on occasion,” Tristan offered in return. Alexandria watched Lane color and wondered at the undercurrents currently passing between the two men.

“Perhaps so,” Lane’s expression became guarded. “I should leave, Alexandria. I expressed my concern; I also want you to know that should you ever need me, you need only make it known.”

“Thank you,” Alexandria acknowledged his offer.

“I’ll see myself out.” Lane, his back rigid, turned and made his way out of the room; the front door closed with a light thud behind him.

“Could I offer you tea or coffee?” Alexandria turned to Tristan.

“No, I have business to see to in town, but I wanted to check on you. The sheriff came by my place after leaving yours yesterday and I understand you had a scare.”

“I did, but I’m alright, I assure you,” she offered.

“I’m glad to know it. I tell you, our town isn’t as safe as it used to be; it worries me some,” Tristan’s gaze was dark.

“It does seem to be getting worse,” Alexandria acknowledged.

“I know that you have friends and family watching out for you, Mrs. Morris, but as your closet neighbor, I want you to know that you can call on me anytime. Neighbors have to look out for each other if a community is going to be safe.”

Alexandria had to bite back a frown. Why was everyone suddenly worried about her?

“I’m glad to know I can count on my neighbors,” she offered instead of the sharp comeback she wanted to hand him.

“I won’t keep you, just remember I’m nearby if you need help.”

“Thank you, Mr. Price,” Alexandria rose to see him out. She turned from the door and shook her head at the two visits she had just received.

“Who was here?” Anna asked as Alexandria entered the kitchen.

“Lane stopped in and then Tristan Price before Lane had even excused himself,” Alexandria’s expression was baffled as she fixed herself a cup of coffee.

“What did they want?” Anna turned from where she was punching down a loaf of bread.

“To check on me apparently,” Alexandria shrugged a dismissal.

“You look exhausted,” Anna noted as she took in the circles under her sister’s eyes.

“I am tired,” Alexandria admitted.

“So go take a nap.”

“No, no I think I’ll just read for a while. I can’t remember the last time I picked up a book other than one of Lilly’s story books.” Alexandria turned and made her way to the parlor to make herself comfortable with one of her favorite books.

Jonathon approached the house that evening; he was wondering if Alexandria had actually rested or if she had worked the day away inside. He had never met a woman as stubborn as that one was. He mounted the back porch and tapped on the door; a moment later Anna let him into the house.

“Hello, Mr. Stewart, if you’re looking for Alexandria, she’s reading in the parlor,” Anna offered.

Jonathon nodded; reading was good.

“Thank you, Ms. Cannon.” Jonathon made his way to the parlor and stopped in the doorway.

Alexandria lay curled on her side; the book she had been reading was sandwiching one hand. She had obviously fallen asleep while reading. He crossed the room quietly and gently tugged the book free. Pride and Prejudice the spine read; Jonathon smiled. He had suspected that despite all her bravado Alexandria had a romantic side; Jane Austin novels were proof. He laid the book aside and claimed a throw from a nearby chair to spread over Alexandria. She looked peaceful, free from the strain and worry that too frequently lined her young face. Jonathon reached forward and smoothed a stray curl from her cheek before he even realized he intended to do it. He watched her shift lightly before settling back in and he turned to leave the room as quietly as he had entered.

“She’s sound asleep,” Jonathon announced when he entered the kitchen.

“Good, she needs some rest,” Anna nodded.

“I was afraid she would find work to do in the house,” Jonathon admitted as he accepted the drink he was offered.

“She was tempted to; I could tell,” Anna grinned as she shared this.

“I imagine,” Jonathon smiled in return.

Anna had to drop her gaze when he smiled; it tied her up inside.

“Did you ladies have a quiet day?”

“We did. Alexandria had a couple of visitors though.”

“Really? Who if you don’t mind my asking?”

“Lane and Tristan Price from next door,” Anna answered his query.

“She’s not even aware that they’re interested in her is she?” Jonathon asked.

“No she isn’t.” Anna’s smile was sad this time.

“Why is that, Ms. Cannon?”

Anna sighed and after checking on the bread in the oven and making sure Millie had the vegetables under control, seated herself at the table. Lilly was busy fussing over a dolly at her small doll highchair in the corner.

“The boys teased Alexandria unmercifully, Mr. Stewart. She could out run them, out ride them…they didn’t take that kindly. Then I think some of them were just too scared to approach her. She has this way of making herself unapproachable if she’s threatened.

“Then when she was fifteen she actually had what I would say was probably her first crush on this boy at school. He was a couple of years older and staying with his grandparents; we later learned why. Anyway, he offered her a ride home from school one afternoon and I watched her struggle really hard with that decision. He actually had a little buggy his grandparents let him use.

“She came running home in tears a short time later. He had stopped the buggy on this turn off and tried kissing her. He told her if she wanted to capture a man’s attention she needed to learn ways of doing so because her looks wouldn’t.” Anger sparked in Anna’s blue eyes as she fell quiet.

“Who was this?” Jonathon demanded.

“He doesn’t live here any longer, Mr. Stewart,” Anna smiled in amusement; she knew why he had asked. “Our brother beat him up pretty badly the next day. That was the only time my brother was actually in a fight at school. But it turns out this boy was at his grandparents because he had pulled something similar back home, only worse, apparently.

“That was the last time I recall Alexandria expressing interest in a man until Elijah.” The smile she offered now was brittle, “You know how well that went I’m sure.”

Jonathon was quiet as he digested this information.

“Thanks for sharing, Ms. Cannon. I can’t understand her sometimes. She turns heads everywhere she goes but she’s either trying to disappear into the back ground around her or she’s transmitting stay away signals so strong they carry to the next county.”

“I know,” Anna nodded sadly. “I don’t know what it’ll take to convince her she isn’t an awkward, ugly duckling.”

“A man treating her right,” Jonathon predicted.

“Good luck to any man who tries. I think Elijah was the nail in the coffin as they say.”

“I don’t think she’s a lost cause.”

“You think Tristan or Lane will win her over?” Anna asked speculatively.

“I can’t see Tristan being her type and I don’t think she’ll ever take Lane seriously.”

“Well, I know from the buzz around church that they aren’t the only ones interested. Right now most the men are respecting her being in mourning but I figure that won’t last too terribly long. Not out here.”

“Probably not,” Jonathon agreed.

“Do you miss your family, Mr. Stewart?” Anna watched him closely as she waited for his answer.

“I do,” he admitted.

“Why did you stay here?”

“I have my reasons. I made a promise to Elijah for one thing and for another, I don’t think I want to return at this time.”

“I just wondered,” Anna tried to shrug casually. She was relieved that he wasn’t interested in leaving.

Alexandria entered the room still looking more asleep than alert and the conversation ended. Anna returned to the stove feeling exhilarated. That was the longest conversation she’d ever had with Jonathon!