Wagonmaster (10 page)

“No. I'm fine.” Addie tried to find a way to distract him. “I'm thirsty.”

The muscles in his jaw clenched, but he stopped and reached for a cup. “Here.”

She drank the remainder of the cider in it. Addie handed it back to him and tried to look contrite. “Thank you, Joshua.”

“Do you still need to use the pot?”

“No, I finished before….” She waved her hand in the air, wanting to dismiss what had happened afterward.

He wouldn't let her forget. “Before you fainted and nearly killed yourself?” He removed his hat and coat and threw them toward the trunk.

“Really, Joshua. I didn't fall that far. The worst I could have done was bump my head, but nothing happened.”

“No, that's not the worst. You could've knocked over the lamp and burned yourself. You could have been killed! You should've waited for me to help you.” He pointed his finger at her. “You're not to get out of that bed again without my help.” His tone brooked no argument. It was an order. “Is that clear?”

Anger renewed her strength. She sat up, ready for battle. “I beg your pardon! I'll do as I please.”

Suddenly, he leaned over her, his arms on either side of her, his nose almost touching hers. “You'll stay in this damned bed, or I'll tie you down.”

Warm breath tickled her lips. She wanted to argue with him, but the anger and rebellion left her. She lifted her chin and pressed her lips against his. For a moment, she thought he would pull away, but his arms came around her. Lifting her hands, she pushed them beneath the collar of his shirt to touch his skin.
So warm
.

She parted her lips and touched her tongue to his lips. He growled and opened his mouth, kissing her thoroughly. His tongue explored and caressed her lips. It took her breath away. She leaned into him and begged for more.

He pulled away too soon. “Addie….” The anger in his voice disappeared. A low, husky tone replaced it. He straightened and rubbed his hand over his face. “Go to sleep, darlin'.” Sitting in the chair he reached for his boot and removed one, then the other.

Her disappointment at his withdrawal eased. He was staying. He removed his socks and started unbuttoning his shirt.

His dark brown eyes met hers. “You were supposed to be asleep by the time I got back.”

She shrugged. “I was. You woke me up.”

He laughed. “You weren't supposed to be sleepin' on the floor. Now lie down. Sleep.”

She settled herself against her pillow, but she continued to watch him undress, still fascinated by the rippling muscles on his chest and abdomen. Standing again, he removed his shirt and pants. Sadly, his long underwear remained in place.

He lifted the edge of the covers. “Scoot over, sweetheart.”

Addie moved and turned on her side to face him to give him plenty of room to lie down. He slid under the covers and stretched his arm over the pillow. “Come here.”

She laid her head on his shoulder and snuggled next to him. “Mmmm. You're so warm.”

Her hand rested on his chest, and he covered it with his own. “And you're cold as ice.” He pulled her closer, rested his cheek against the top of her head, and rubbed her back.

“Not anymore.” A sigh of utter contentment escaped her. This was exactly where she wished to be: in Joshua's arms, next to him, listening to the steady beat of his heart.

* * * *

The motion of the wagon stopped. Addie sat up, lifted the canvas, and peered up at Joshua. “Have we reached the river?”

He tied the reins to the rail. “Yes. We're at the river. Fresh water and rest. Just what our lovely lady doctor has ordered.”

“Ordered? I'm quite certain I never ordered anything. I simply suggested.” She knew that her suggestion had been nearly a demand. Only days ago she'd told him adamantly, “This train needs fresh water and rest if we are to survive the cholera.”

“That's not how I remember it, but I won't argue with you. I'm too relieved to be here.” He stood and turned to climb down.

Addie laughed. “So am I. The flapjack batter is ready, and I sliced some potatoes to fry.”

Joshua stopped. His lips thinned, and his brows drew together. “You were supposed to be restin'.”

“I did rest.” She tried to ignore his irritation. “For almost the entire morning.”

He shook his head and muttered a curse.

She placated him. “Don't fuss. It wasn't strenuous to sit on the bed and slice potatoes or stir batter. I was careful not to tire myself.”

Looking skyward, he mumbled under his breath and began unhitching the oxen. She couldn't make out the words, but he clearly disapproved of her efforts to prepare a small meal. He'd no doubt fight her if she tried to start a fire. Instead of climbing out of the wagon, she poured yet another cup of cider and drank deeply. She felt better and better. The extra fluids she'd had this morning helped. Dehydration had been the cause of her weakness and dizziness. The more fluids her body reclaimed, the faster she improved. She still needed to rest frequently, but complete bed rest was no longer necessary. If only she could convince Joshua.

Part of her wanted to do as she pleased. Her independent nature urged her to ignore his domineering commands. He had no right to tell her what she could and couldn't do. He wasn't truly her husband. But her conscience reminded her again and again that she was in his debt. She wouldn't be here, so close to seeing her father, if it weren't for him. He'd driven her wagon and taken care of her while she was ill.

For now, she'd submit to his wishes. But she didn't know how long she'd tolerate his control. She simply wasn't a woman accustomed to allowing someone else to make decisions for her. Addie enjoyed her independence. And though she owed Joshua Reynolds a great deal, she drew the line at blind obedience.

She sat on the bed, drinking her cup of cider and waiting for Joshua to finish with the oxen. Only a few moments passed before the canvas lifted.

He stepped into the wagon and looked at her, his face stern with disapproval. “Why are you dressed?”

She clenched her teeth to keep from snapping at him. “It's too cold to cook in my nightgown.”

“You won't be cooking. You'll be in bed until tomorrow.” She stood and tried to speak, but he shook his finger at her. “And tomorrow you will take several naps and rest often, just like you've instructed everyone else to do.”

It irritated her to have her own words used against her. “I have been resting, and I promise not to overdo it, but if I don't get out of the wagon I'll go crazy. I want some fresh air and I need to walk around a little. I feel like I'm in jail!”

He took two long strides and stood before Addie, gently placing his hands on her shoulders. “I know it's hard, darlin', but I need you to get well.”

“I am. Look at me. Can't you tell how much better I feel?”

“Yes, I can see you're getting better. But you're still pale. And that tells me you should follow your own advice and rest.” He tweaked her nose.

Damn him. She wouldn't allow him to treat her like a child. The tip of her finger poked his chest. “Joshua, I am a grown woman and if I want to cook or take a walk or anything else, I will do as I please.”

His lips captured hers, taking her breath away. He nibbled and sucked while his hands roamed over her back and down to her hips. He was obviously trying to distract her, but even knowing that, she couldn't resist the need he aroused in her. Her hands found the nape of his neck, and she kissed him back. She pressed her body into his.

Joshua pulled her hips tightly against his own and deepened the kiss. All thought fled her mind. Blood pounded in her ears, and a searing heat spread through her. Too soon he ended the kiss, but his lips traced her jaw and throat, and the brim of his hat brushed against her hair.

He bent, lifted her, and settled her on the bed. His mouth found hers once more for another shattering kiss while his hands reached under the hem of her skirt and removed her boots. Warmth pooled in her lower belly, and she arched her body seeking more contact with his.

His incredible mouth left hers, and a whimper escaped her. Joshua straightened and pushed himself off the bed. Addie waited impatiently for him to remove his shirt, but he made no move to undress. He sighed deeply and cleared his throat before turning away.

“Joshua?”

He grabbed the pan of sliced potatoes and the flapjack batter. “Jimmy will cook this for us, and you can come outside to eat. I'll be back for you when lunch is ready.”

Confusion and dismay gave way to anger at the realization of what he'd done to get her to go back to bed. “Damn you, Reynolds!” Sitting up, she grabbed the first thing she could find and threw it at him. The tin cup bounced against the canvas and clattered to the floor. His deep, rumbling chuckle floated to her.

Addie let out a frustrated cry and fell back on the bed. She heaved a sigh. He'd won again, but losing this battle had been worth the fight. Her body still hummed with arousal. Joshua still wanted her. But he'd probably wait until he was convinced she'd fully recovered. With that thought as incentive, she pulled a quilt over her and closed her eyes, willing herself to sleep. To her surprise, a drowsy haze crept over her.

* * * *

Josh climbed out of Addie's wagon to find Jimmy's wagon approaching. He put the potatoes and batter on the wagon seat and waved at Jimmy. Josh surveyed the other wagons, train members, and their activities. Some unhitched their oxen, others started campfires. Many headed toward the river, buckets in hand, anxious for the fresh water. Relief showed in their faces. Even the children understood the significance of having reached the river. The heavy gloom plaguing the train since the cholera began had disappeared. Now they just needed rest.

Jimmy drove into an open spot a few yards from Addie's wagon. He set the brake, climbed down, and pressed his hands to his back. “These blasted ol' bones get stiffer and stiffer,” he grumbled. “How's the missus?”

Josh nodded. “Much better, but I'm afraid I may have to hog-tie her to get her to rest.”

Jimmy chuckled. “That's one tough little filly you got there, boss. I'm glad she's better.”

“I'll start a fire. She's already mixed up some batter for flapjacks and sliced some potatoes. I think she intended to fry them.”

A look of surprise crossed the old cook's face. “You mean she's already feelin' good enough for chores?”

Josh grunted. “Well, she thinks she is. But she's still pale, and I don't want her pushin' herself too soon. I told her we'd cook lunch. She wants to get out of the wagon for a while. I guess she's got a case of cabin fever.”

“Can't say that I blame her.” He pulled the yoke off the oxen. “You get that fire goin'. I'll wash up and get the skillets.”

An hour later, Josh climbed into the wagon prepared to defend himself against Addie's wrath. He approached the bed. She lay on her side, sound asleep. He sat on the edge of the bed, trying to decide whether he should wake her. Thankfully, the pale, waiflike woman he'd worried over for the past two days was disappearing. A lock of hair had come loose from her braid, and he pushed it away from her face.

Her lids fluttered open, and she frowned. “I'm still mad at you.”

He smiled at her. “Not for long. I'm here to help you come outside and have lunch.”

Her frown slipped away, and she sat up. “Is it cold out? Should I wear my coat?”

“It's not too bad in the sun. A shawl will do for now.” He stood, reaching for her boots he'd removed from her feet earlier. “But when the sun goes down it will probably be the coldest night yet.”

Throwing back the quilt, she swung her legs over the edge of the bed. “That's all right. I don't care how cold it is. I want out of this wagon.” She took the boots he offered and hurriedly slipped them on.

He found her shawl and draped it across her shoulders. “Ready?”

She nodded and gave him a little shove. “Yes!” Her brows drew together for just an instant, but a beautiful smile broke across her face and chased the frown away.

“What?” Josh had to know what could cause such a happy glow.

“I'm hungry. My appetite has returned.” She put her hands on her hips. “That's proof I'm recovering just as I told you.”

Laughing, he turned to climb out of the wagon. “Good. Let's eat.”

Addie followed him. He caught her around the waist and lifted her from the top step to the ground. She breathed deeply, turning her face to the sun. “Finally.”

“I'll get your chair for you.” He climbed back into the wagon, returned, and found Addie standing next to the fire talking with Jimmy.

“You had the boss right worried, little lady. Never seen him so—”

“That's enough, Jimmy.” Josh shook his head. “Here's your chair, darlin'.”

She shot him a questioning look, but said nothing about Jimmy's ramblings. “Thank you.” Taking the plate Jimmy offered, she gave him a smile. “This looks wonderful.” She took a bite of the potatoes and hummed her approval. “Is there bacon in these?”

Jimmy nodded, giving Josh a plate of food. “Yes, ma'am. And some onion. I used the bacon grease to fry 'em too.”

“Delicious.”

For the next few minutes, they all ate without much comment.

Addie sighed. “I can't eat another bite. I'm stuffed.”

Josh frowned. “I thought you said you were hungry. You hardly ate half.”

She stared at her plate. “But I just ate more than I have in the last few days combined. It's a good start. I'll save it and eat some more in a couple of hours. I'll probably need to eat small meals more often for a day or two.”

Josh didn't answer, but he resolved to see she did just that. She wouldn't get her strength back eating like a bird. The cholera had left her much thinner. While he and Jimmy finished the meal, Addie sat quietly watching the activities of the train. Several waved to her, and she smiled, waving back.

Jimmy stood, tossing his metal plate into a small washtub. “I think I'll leave the dishes for later and head on down to the river an' see if I can catch us a mess of fish for supper.”

Addie stood. “Oh! Do you mind if I join you?”

“No,” Josh answered immediately. “You're going back to bed.”

She narrowed her eyes defiantly before she spoke to Jimmy again. “I'll get my pole and net.”

Jimmy's lips twitched, and he covered his mouth to hide a smile.

Josh shook his head and tried to reason with Addie. “You need to rest.”

“How strenuous can it be to sit next to the river in this sunshine?” She started walking to the wagon.

“Addie.”

She ignored him and climbed into the wagon, only to exit a few moments later with her fishing pole and net.

He stepped in front of her. “Why do you have to be so stubborn?”

“I'm not trying to be stubborn. I just want out of that wagon.” She sighed. Her eyes softened. “I appreciate your concern, Joshua. I really do. And I'm very grateful for all your help. But I can't bear being cooped up another minute.”

The plea in those expressive eyes proved more than he could resist. He groaned in surrender. “You should take a blanket with you.”

She nodded, her relief that he'd conceded written in her gaze. “You're right. The ground is probably cold.”

“I'll get it for you.” Josh climbed into the wagon, grabbed the extra quilt from the end of the bed, and returned to Addie. Jimmy stood next to her with his pole and a large bucket of supplies. Tucking the blanket beneath his arm, Josh reached for Addie's pole and net. “I'll carry those for you.”

The smile he received erased his anger over her stubbornness. She was so easily pleased. Little things like sunshine and fishing satisfied her.
If Sarah had been like that….
He squelched the unhappy thought and followed Jimmy and Addie toward the river. Her braid, usually pinned in a bun, hung to her waist today, its tip swaying in time with her hips.

Unbidden thoughts of how those hips pressed against his own, her legs wrapped about his waist, swam through his mind. He ground his teeth together. What was wrong with him? The woman was still recovering. He wouldn't be making love to her anytime soon.

And he never should have given in to his lust in the first place. Addie needed a husband, one who'd appreciate her strength and compassion. One who was strong enough to protect her from herself as well as the dangers in the West.

They reached the river, and Addie chose a spot in the sun with a large boulder to her back. Josh spread the blanket out for her while Jimmy baited the hooks. Within minutes, the lines hit the water.

Addie stared up at him from her spot on the blanket. “Are you going to fish with us?”

Josh shook his head. “No, I need to scout the area. Make sure we won't be havin' any company.” He thought for a moment and tried to decide how he should phrase his instructions. If it sounded too much like an order, she'd defy him just to prove she could. “Addie, you shouldn't stay more than an hour. You need your rest.” He held his breath for her response.

“I promise I won't overdo, Joshua. I'll just sit here in the sunshine for a little while. Then I'll take another nap before dinner.”

Relief filled him. He tipped his hat and winked at her. “Good idea.” He pointed at his cook. “See that she keeps her promise, Jimmy.”

Jimmy laughed. “No promises here, boss. That little filly is more than an old man like me can handle.”

Addie ducked her head to cover her smile. Josh chuckled. “I should be back in a couple of hours.”

Josh returned to Addie's wagon almost two hours later. She and Jimmy were not at camp. He should have known she wouldn't nap. Heading toward the river, he struggled to keep his anger in check. He'd already learned that pushing Addie only made her push back. She was the most stubborn, hardheaded, aggravating woman….

The scene before him eased his temper and brought a smile to his face. Jimmy sat right where he'd left him. He cleaned some fish and hummed a little tune.

Addie lay on her blanket, sleeping peacefully, her hand tucked beneath her cheek.

Jimmy cleared his throat. “She's nappin' just like she promised, boss.” He chuckled. “She's been asleep for over an hour, I think. I didn't have the heart to wake her.” He stood. “Now that you're here, I'll just get on back to camp.” He began gathering the fishing supplies.

“Thanks for stayin' with her, Jimmy. I think it's time she ate somethin' too. Would you mind warmin' up those potatoes she liked so much?”

Jimmy grabbed the bucket full of fish. “Sure will. Let her sleep a little longer. Give me time to warm them taters.”

Josh nodded and sat next to Addie, careful to keep his dirty boots off the quilt. It was hard to believe that such a petite young woman could be so rebellious and willful, especially when he saw her like this, peaceful and pretty. The afternoon sun brought out the gold and red in her hair. Much of her color had returned. Her lips and cheeks held a healthy pink glow again. She was recovering quickly, and he sent up a short prayer of thanks. His heart constricted. Losing Addie would have been even harder than losing Sarah had been.

His brow creased. He clenched his jaw and tore his gaze away from Addie to stare at the river.
Why?
Sarah had been his wife. He loved her. Why then, would it be harder to lose Addie? An obvious answer presented itself. He'd let her get too close. He'd come to care for her. He frowned.
Stupid.
That's what he was. He wasn't the kind of man Adelaide Jennings deserved or needed.

“I'm sorry.”

Josh's gaze jerked back to Addie. “For what?”

“For staying here too long. I really intended to go back.”

Josh shrugged. “You promised to nap and you did.” He gave her a wink and grinned.

She sat up. “Then why did you look so angry just now? What were you thinking?”

“Nothin'. Let's go back to camp. Jimmy is warmin' those potatoes for you.” He stood and offered his hand.

She searched his face, a question in her eyes. Finally, she placed her hand in his and rose. “I
am
a little hungry. Some warm cider would be nice too.”

Josh gathered the quilt, shaking the grass and twigs from it before folding and tucking it under his arm. “It looked like you caught quite a few fish.”

She smiled. “I caught two nice trout. Jimmy caught one.” Her brows furrowed. “Well, he might have caught more after I fell asleep. I don't know.”

He nodded and offered her his arm. Addie slipped her hand into the crook of his elbow. Silently, they walked back toward the wagons. By the time they arrived, Josh was already chiding himself for thinking how right it felt to have her at his side. It wasn't right. She didn't belong there. But damn if she didn't make him wish things were different.

“Those smell wonderful, Jimmy. Thank you for warming them for me.” Addie sat down in her chair.

“No trouble at all, ma'am.” He scooped up the potatoes and offered the plate to her.

She took a bite. “Mmm. Even better than before.”

Josh realized she'd be thirsty. “I'll get that cider you wanted.”

He returned with the cider, relieved to see that Addie had already finished half the potatoes. “Here.” He gave the jug and kettle to Jimmy. “I saw some deer tracks earlier. I'm goin' to hunt for a while. I'll be back by supper.” Josh caught Addie's gaze, but spoke to Jimmy. “Keep an eye on her for me, Jim. Make sure she takes it easy.”

Addie rolled her eyes.

Jimmy laughed. “I'll try, boss.”