Quicksilver Passion (177 page)

Todd shrugged.
If he does, he may need an old army scout like Dallinger to lead him to the Indians. I don’t know whether the colonel has a good scout or not. What’s your interest in the man?”

He wondered if he could trust Todd Shaw.
I’m sure beyond a reasonable doubt that Jake murdered and robbed my partners. Do you think it would do me any good to go to the law?”

Probably not. Frankly, Evans, I don’t know what to say. I’m not much on taking the law into your own hands, but in this case, if you weren’t blind, I’d almost suggest it. Dallinger’s a ruthless man, as I recall my brother’s comments, and the world would be a better place without him.”

Cherokee reassessed the man, trying to decide just how far he could trust Todd Shaw. He had always considered himself a good judge of men, and he had a feeling that before this was over, he was going to need an ally.
If I tell you something, can I know you’ll keep my secret?”

Todd nodded.
I like you, Evans. You have my word that whatever you tell me will be held in confidence.”

Cherokee took a deep breath, thinking.
There comes a time when we all have to trust someone
, he thought.
No one can get through this world alone
.
All right, here it is. I’m not as blind as I appear. My sight’s gradually returning—”

Then why—?”

Let me finish. I won’t bore you with all the details, but I expect that within a few weeks, maybe less, I’ll be able to see as well as anyone. That is, if my eyes keep improving as they have been these last couple of days.”

Todd stared at him.
Then why are you pretending to be completely blind?”

I may keep up the ruse forever,” Cherokee admitted with a sigh.

That’s crazy. It’s impossible to keep up a masquerade like that for any length of time.”

I know that, but I’m desperate. What would you do? I’m in love with a woman whose beauty was once the toast of the Rockies, but she’s been scarred. She thinks I don’t realize it because of my blindness.”

Todd looked mystified. Evidently, he had no idea who the woman was.
You mean, if she thinks you can see she’s no longer beautiful, she’ll leave you?”