The Mail-Order Bride Showed Up In Tears, The Cowboy Said, “You Don’t Have To Pretend With Me”

Ranch established, expanding. Work hard. Partner wanted, not servant. Marriage offered on honest terms.

It was enough. She had agreed.

Now the coach door swung open and a gloved hand appeared first, pale against the dark interior. Then the hem of a dusty blue traveling dress. Boots touched the step. A bonnet tilted, hiding most of the face.

For one strange moment, Carrick thought she might hesitate and retreat back into the coach like a frightened bird.

Then she stepped down.