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Nathaniel Smith knew Thomas just as well as anyone. In fact, at times Thomas believed Nathaniel knew him better than Thomas even knew himself.
“I never received word that you were coming to town. What brings you back this way?” Nathaniel asked. “I hadn’t expected you for some time.” He raised one brow and his mouth tipped sideways as he glanced up and down Thomas’s clothes. “Have you been sleeping in the dirt, or did you just forget to change your clothes for a week?”
The attempt at humor couldn’t penetrate the thick anxiety covering Thomas’s usually amiable nature. He didn’t answer, only tightened his lips. Nathaniel was the only person he’d confided in about Martin’s blackmail, and his friend’s trust had been a source of strength and encouragement more than a few times.
Nathaniel stopped with a jerk, his eyes widening. “Something’s happened—I can see it in your face.” He lowered his voice and peered up and down the street. “Perhaps it would be wise for you to stay with me while we determine—”
“Things have changed slightly since we last talked,” Thomas said.
Nathaniel tilted his head. “Continue.”
“I’m already behind schedule as it is. I have only a few seconds to explain.” Thomas moved out of the street beside the mercantile. Nathaniel followed close behind.
“I’m not actually here alone.” Thomas motioned to the package under his arm. “I have two women traveling with me.”
“Really?” Nathaniel whispered back, raising the corners of his mouth and slapping his hand on Thomas’s shoulder. He looked at him, his white teeth shining through his smile. “I can’t wait to hear this. I have a feeling it’s going to be good.”
Chapter Nine
The two sisters lounged on the damp ground under a few gnarled oaks. Eliza’s legs throbbed as she massaged them, carefully avoiding her injured feet. She’d attend to them later.
Thomas left hours ago. The daylight had begun to fade, but still the sky was bright enough to illuminate their surroundings. She could only hope he would return before the light disappeared completely, forcing them to walk the last two miles in the dark.
“How will we know when it’s safe to go back home?” Kitty asked, her hands resting in her lap.
Eliza could hear the fear in Kitty’s voice and pumped strength into her own. “I don’t know. I’ve been wondering the same.” She paused and continued kneading her legs. “God will provide. He already has. I know He sent Mr. Watson to protect us. I’m going to try and send word to Samuel as soon as possible. I’m certain he’ll—”
Eliza stopped, the hairs on her arms standing rigid. Something rustled in the trees and bushes in front of them.
She looked at Kitty to see if she’d heard it too, but the relaxed appearance on her sister’s tired face told her she hadn’t. Thank the Lord.
“He’ll what, Liza?”
“Oh, nothing. I don’t even remember what I was saying. Not to worry, Kitty. Just rest.” Eliza focused on her breathing, attempting to calm the rapid beat of her heart.
They were being watched.
Every nerve in Eliza’s body jolted, making her stomach roll. She looked around, realizing the sky had darkened almost entirely now. The remaining light waved farewell at the edge of the faraway horizon. Night was upon them—and they were alone. An ominous feeling ballooned around her, thickening the air and making it hard for her to breathe.
The heavy, ragged footfall drew closer.
“Stand up.” Eliza whispered at Kitty.
“What is it?” she asked as Eliza pulled her to her feet.
Just then, two large men emerged from their covering in the bushes. They were sailors—not soldiers. And from the way they swayed on their feet it was obvious they were drunk.
Eliza pushed Kitty behind her, her protective instincts working at a zealous pace.
The taller of the two men inspected them, a lecherous smile crawling over his scruffy face, while the other looked around them.
Kitty clutched the back of Eliza’s cloak and moved closer.
“What are you two pretty ladies doing out here in the dark? You alone?” The tall one walked closer and sneered, chuckling.
“No.” Forgive me for lying, Lord. “Our brother will be back any moment.”
Her voice shook as much as her legs. She hoped they didn’t notice.
