Independent Brake (The Dominion Falls Series) (17 page)

“Damn. Shouldn’ta taught ya.”

“I know you hate losing, but it’s one game. I’m sure there’s time to make your money back. Let’s go again.”

“I just don’t get it.”

“You don’t have to.” Kat sighed when he continued shuffling rather than deal. “I enjoy his company. Turns out Norman has led an interesting life when you take a moment to hear it—and I mean hear it, not pour him drinks to shut him up.”

“I don’t.”

“You do.”

He shrugged.

“I hate to break it to you.”

“What?”

“By having this conversation, teaching me cards, we’re tipping the scale toward friends. We may have to cease our scandalous activities if this keeps up. I don’t mix friendship with sex.”

“Damn. Shoulda kept my mouth shut.”

“Told you so.”

* * * *

K
at breezed into the telegraph office. “Good morning, Norman.”

“Mornin’, Kat.” Over the course of the past few weeks, Norman’s customary gruff greetings had warmed. “How are ya today?”

“I’m marvelous. How about yourself? Did my telegram come?”

“Like clockwork. Soon as I opened. Does this Patrick not have a job or nothin’?” Norman frowned at the telegram as he pushed it over the counter.

“Of course he does. I’m certain he writes it before he leaves and has Loren send it soon as you open. He does have a telegraph in his house.”

“Fancy Nancy.”

“Norman,” Kat chided. “He is my friend, and a good one.”

“Like Cole?”

“No. Cole just started being my friend. Before that we were merely coupling. Now we’re becoming friends, and the sex will cease soon enough.”

He grunted and turned away.

Rather than try to comprehend the meaning behind his grunt, Kat turned her attention to the wire in her hand. As usual, Patrick had little to report. After all, they now wired almost daily. She suspected he was rather bored and lonely now that Pearl had gone to Indiana to visit the one sister she still spoke to.

Once she’d written a quick reply and set the coins on the counter, she tapped Norman’s shoulder. “I guess that’ll be all.”

“What’re ya off doin’ today?”

“I hadn’t any plans set.”

“I got somethin’ I wanna show ya.”

Kat couldn’t conceal her shock at the statement, and had to physically make her mouth close. She blinked rapidly and shook her head. “What? I mean, certainly. What is it?”

“We gotta walk. That’s if’n ya don’t mind.”

“No. I don’t mind at all. What about the office?”

Norman tapped the knob on the telegraph key in rapid, distinct clicks. When he straightened, he gave her a short nod and indicated to the door. “It’s taken care of.”

“Well, then.” Kat took his offered arm. Butterflies sprang to life in her stomach, fluttering and flipping around with nervous anticipation. For the first time she hadn’t initiated their interaction. Perhaps Norman was softening to her after all.

Norman, never one for chatter, didn’t say much as he led her away from town. They walked down the road that led to the outer settlements, only pausing so they could both stand where the railroad tracks would pass and look toward the mountains where they’d come through eventually.

They hadn’t gone quite a quarter of a mile before the small homestead came into view. She remembered the homestead being half-finished, devoid of life, before she’d left Dominion Falls. She couldn’t even remember who’d been building it then, but she had noticed when she moved back that it had come to life, although it still seemed to be without an occupant.

Someone had finished the home finally, and painted it a cheery yellow. Though the homestead was empty, chair perched on the small porch, just waiting for occupants. She could picture the flower boxes on the window full of life, along with the house.

Much to Kat’s surprise, Norman slowed to a stop in front of the small home.

“Norman?”

“I was buildin’ it for Betsy, then she up and died.”

She gasped and eyed the house. “I’d forgotten it was yours. You just left it to rot after she passed. When I left there was no porch or windows. Did someone buy it?”

“Nah. Lots of promises I didn’t keep to Betsy. Few years ago I figured I’d finish one promise and fixed it up real nice. Thought I might sell it, but ain’t been able to let it go.”

“Understandable. I’m sure Elizabeth would have loved it. I remember she wore yellow all the time.”

“Was her favorite color. But she’s gone now. It’s time to let go, I s’pose.”

“Only you can know if it’s time.”

“Thought maybe you’d wanna live here so’s you can get outta Cora’s place, I mean.”

“What?” Kat dropped her hand from his arm and took a step back.

“I’d rent it to ya, if ya want. If not, I’ll probably sell it.”

“I couldn’t live in Betsy’s house. It’s a lovely gesture, and I appreciate the kindness, but it wouldn’t be right, me living there what with you ready to move on...”

“I reckon I am. Been nine years, after all.” He cleared his throat and turned his back on the house. When he offered his arm again, she didn’t hesitate to take it. As they walked, this time he spoke, “So ya said you lived in Chicago for a time?”

“I did. Rather enjoyed my life there, right up until the end.”

“Miss it any?”

“Some. I miss Patrick, but he’s not there any longer, as you know. I miss Delphie terribly, but she just passed a little over a year ago so it will take time. I think what I miss most is this little confectionary on Green Street had a delightful candy called a praline.”

“A what?”

She laughed. “That’s what I said. The woman that made them, she came from New Orleans and ordered in pecans just for these candies. They’re pure heaven.”

“And that’s what you miss?”

“Outside of my friends, yes. Chicago was just a place. I can live just about anywhere once I decide to stay.”

“Huh.” He kept his pace slow. “And are ya gonna stay here?”

“Can’t say for certain, but it’s looking promising.”

* * * *

H
alf the town bustled around the supply wagon before it came to a full stop. Kat hid her laughter behind her hand as Norman hollered at everyone and bullied his way through for the mail bag.

“You’d think we hadn’t had a supply wagon in weeks.” Cora leaned on the railing next to Kat. “I expect this in the middle of winter, but today it’s a surprise.”

“I heard Grover Star was getting in more mining supplies today. Apparently the fire last week destroyed a lot of men’s tools. He made the mistake of offering a discount to those that paid ahead.” Kat shook her head. “Now they’re all trying to claim in advance. I don’t think Kelly’s going to get anywhere near that wagon until they’re done.”

“He’s not trying. My husband is foolishly trying to play peacekeeper since we haven’t a sheriff to do the job.” Cora shrugged. “Norman, however, was pretty hard pressed to get to that mail bag. Wonder what he’s after.”

“I have no idea.” It was curious, especially as Norman still stood by the wagon, digging through the bag. She’d learned it was his habit to not let anyone near the bag until he’d gotten it to his office and organized, so this was out of character to say the least. “It’s certainly odd to see.”

“He looks like a child eying our candy display to pick just the right gum drop.”

Kat laughed. “That’s exactly what he looks like. Makes him look twenty years younger.”

“Not that such a thing seems to matter to you.”

“Of course not.”

“I must say, it’s been nice to see Norman less surly lately. I think you’ve had something to do with that.”

“I wouldn’t begin to claim such a thing.” Kat fought the urge to fidget. “I am merely being nice.”

“You care for him.”

Kat didn’t have time to protest, even if she could’ve. Norman himself walked up wearing the closest thing to a grin she’d ever seen on his face. Unable to stop her own smile, she nodded her head. “Norman.”

“This came for ya.” He set a box in her hand, then turned and strode back down the steps without another word.

“What in the world?” Kat glanced at Cora before turning her attention to the small box in her hands. The plain brown paper had Norman’s name on it, and an address in Chicago as the source. “Oh, heavens. No, he didn’t, did he?”

“He didn’t what?” Cora leaned closer. “Why did he give that to you?”

Kat peeled away the string and tore open the brown paper. Within moments she had the box inside open, and six pralines sat nestled inside. Her heart melted, and she set her hand on her chest to ease the sudden rapid beat within. “Oh, he did. What a dear man.”

“Might I ask what those are?” Cora peeked in the box. “Is that candy?”

“They’re pralines. From a little confectionery in Chicago I used to enjoy. We talked about it weeks ago. I didn’t expect this.” She plucked one from the box and held it out to Cora. “Try one. I bet you could replicate them, you’d just need to order the nuts.”

“Thank you.” Cora took a bite, and immediately groaned. “Very good.”

“Aren’t they?” Kat took a bite of hers, letting the candy melt smoothly over her tongue before she bit into the pecan. When she spoke, it was around the candy. “Will you set this in my room? I need to go thank him.”

“Of course. Would you mind if—”

“Go ahead and take another. I don’t mind sharing.” Kat hopped down the steps and around the crowd that still hung around the supply wagon. Kelly had things under control now, but the men were taking their sweet time listening to him and Grover.

She hopped up on the boardwalk and brushed the dust from her pantaloons. Lately she’d noticed them getting tight, no doubt thanks to Cora’s robust meals.

The last thing she needed was to be eating in between meals, but she’d never turn down a praline. She couldn’t believe that Norman had gotten her favorite candy just because she’d said she missed it. Such a kind gesture had her almost skipping down the street until a shrill whistle pulled her to a stop.

Across the street Cole curled his finger to call her close.

She acquiesced only because her mood was already in a good place. A few feet away she paused. “Cole, was there something I could do for you?”

“You’re actin’ strange. What’s that?” Cole pointed to the praline.

“Candy. Norman had it shipped in from Chicago for me.”

“He did, did he?”

“Mm-hmm.” She took another bite and sighed.

“We’re done, ain’t we?”

“I’m afraid so. It was marvelously fun, though. Still friends?”

He chuckled. “Don’t know any woman that would want to.”

“Now you do. Shall we play poker tomorrow?”

“Ya got a deal.”

Kat nodded and turned on her heel, popping the last bit of candy in her mouth as she headed for the telegraph office. She wiped her sticky fingers on her pants before she pushed open the door.

Thankfully the office was empty, save for Norman sorting his mail with the back to the door. “Gimme a minute,” he spoke in a gruff tone.

She walked for the half door that separated the two areas of the store, and pushed through without hesitation. Before he could fully turn to protest, she flew across the room and planted a kiss on his lips.

He grunted in surprise, but when her arms went around his neck, he slid his hands around her waist. When she pulled back, he frowned. “Ya ain’t supposed to be back here.”

“Too bad, you dear sweet man.” She kissed him again.

“Aw, shucks. Ya better stop that.”

“I’m afraid you’re rather stuck with me now, Norman.”

* * * *

T
rue to her word, Kat had spent all day and night with Norman, and continued the trend for a full week. Every day after he insisted on needing to work, she’d return to Cora’s to freshen up and write a letter to Patrick. Then she’d play a few rounds of cards with Cole before returning to Norman’s.

As he tapped on the telegraph key, she watched in fascination. The return clicks came so fast, she couldn’t begin to understand what they said. “How do you do that?”

He finished writing, tapped the key a few more times, then glanced at her. “Just do. Ya gotta sit and listen and it’s easy.”

“But it’s so fast, and all those clicks run together.”

“Here.” He pulled down a book from the shelf. “Look at that.”

“Are you trying to put me off?”

“No. Look at it.”

“Fine.” She pulled open the book, and on the first two pages were the letters of the alphabet with dots and lines above each. “Oh.”

“That’s the code. If ya memorize it, I’ll teach ya more.”

“So I could send a wire directly to Patrick if I wished.”

“That’s right.”

“Oh goodness. How fun.” She sat back and began to study the letters carefully. Around her, Norman continued to work, and part of her wondered if he was feeling triumphant that he’d managed to hush her for some time.

In the end, the studying was tough work, but made the time go by fast. Before she knew it, Norman was standing in front of her. “Ya know, you’re makin’ people talk stayin’ here and still goin’ to Cole’s.”

“Are you concerned about Cole? Jealous, maybe?” His lack of answer made her lower the book and lift her gaze to his. “Cole and I are friends alone. He has whores to keep him occupied. We had fun, I won’t lie, but I am not lying with him any longer. I wouldn’t do that to you.”

“Good.”

“As far as people talking goes, they’ll do that anyhow. You’ll have to trust me, take me at my word. I am friends with Cole same as you are. We drink and play cards, but no more, not any longer.”

“I ain’t too happy about it, but I guess.” He jerked his head to the door. “Supper time, if ya want.”

At the mere mention of food, her stomach growled. “Apparently I do.” She set aside the book and rose. After they’d left and he’d locked the door behind them, she laced her arm with his.

“That ain’t all they’re sayin’.”

“Of course it isn’t.” She knew the rumors and talk bothered him. She wished it didn’t, she wished he could let it go. However, she also knew he found some of her behavior and beliefs to forward and improper.

“With ya practically living under my roof and all...”

“Norman, you know I don’t wish to get married or anything akin to that. I don’t mind practically living under your roof and keeping your company, but I don’t care for marriage. I’ve seen what it can do to people.”