Chapter Fifteen
THE GLOW OF LUKE’Swarm look and even warmer words kept Sarah floating on air the rest of the morning. He’d said he had everything he wanted, and she was sure she hadn’t misinterpreted his implication that she was what he wanted.
Becky helped Sarah clear the table after breakfast, while the men went outside to get the wagon ready for the long trip back to Denver. The fact that they’d made it twice in one week showed how much they cared.
“Things seem to be working out between you and Luke,” Becky commented as she stacked a load of dishes in the sink. “Goodness, the way that man was looking at you this morning... It’s enough to make me blush.”
Sarah laughed. “Somehow, I don’t think there’s much that’s capable of making you blush.”
Becky grinned. “You’re right. I’m shameless. But you must admit that my instincts about this were right on the money. You do love him. I know you do.”
Sarah sighed, thinking of the way he’d kissed her, the vulnerability in his eyes when she’d rubbed the liniment on his leg. “Of course, I do,” she whispered, keeping her eye on the back door in case the men should come back in that way. “I think I have ever since I met him.”
“So, you’re not mad at me anymore? You forgive us for scheming to get the two of you together?”
“I forgive you,” Sarah told her. “But there’s something I’ve been wondering about, Becky. Do you mind if I ask you a question?”
“Sure,” Becky replied, sitting down at the kitchen table. “Ask away.”
Sarah sat down across from her and took a deep breath. Becky was leaving soon, and Luke could return any moment. If she didn’t find out now, she might not have another chance. “What happened to Luke? How did he lose his foot?”
Becky’s grin slipped. Her gaze grew shuttered, and her sudden tension was palpable. “I’m sorry, Sarah. But I’m afraid I can’t tell you.”
“You can’t tell me?” Sarah stared at her new friend in disbelief. “Why in the world not?”
Becky shook her head. “There are things in Luke’s past that might upset you. I really don’t feel comfortable talking about it. When he wants you to know, I’m sure he’ll tell you himself.”
Sarah frowned and turned away. “It’s all right, Becky. You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.” But their earlier closeness had disappeared, and her interest was piqued even more.
What had happened to Luke? What could possibly be so terrible that he felt he must keep it a secret from her?
* * * * *
AFTER SEEING MATT ANDBecky off, Luke spent the afternoon in the parlor, teaching Sarah to play chess. His leg was feeling much better, due to Sarah’s gentle care. Tomorrow he’d probably be able to bear putting that damned boot back on.
He smiled at Sarah’s expression of grim concentration as she stared down at the chessboard. She was very bright, and she’d picked up the rules of the game with surprising ease. He had a feeling that in time she’d make a formidable opponent.
