“That's true.”
For a moment, the morning felt ordinary.
Then they heard horses moving in the stable.
The men who'd followed them up the mountain were preparing to leave.
Owen Price was well enough to travel carefully, though his leg remained painful and he would need proper medical examination in town. Caleb arranged for the young man to ride in a sheltered wagon rather than attempt the difficult trail on horseback.
Vane disliked accepting help.
His expression made that clear.
But he understood that refusing the wagon would put Owen at unnecessary risk.
Eleanor joined them on the porch, using the sturdy handrail Caleb had installed beside the steps.
The morning air was bitterly cold.
Her heavy cloak had been tailored to fit comfortably over her enormous frame, and a broad wool scarf protected her neck.
Vane watched her approach.
For a moment, his expression became contemptuous.
Then he seemed to remember the previous night.
The injury.
The storm.
And the fact that the couple he'd been sent to intimidate had sheltered one of his men.
He looked away.
Eleanor stopped beside Caleb.
“Mr. Vane.”
He turned.
“Mrs. Mercer.”
She nodded.
“Tell Solomon Whitmore that I won't return to his household.”
Vane's jaw tightened.
“He says you owe him money.”
“Then he may present the evidence to a court where I can challenge it.”
The man looked irritated.
Eleanor continued.
“And if anyone damages this property, threatens my husband, or attempts to remove documents without lawful authority, I'll report the conduct.”
Vane gave a humorless laugh.
“You think a county judge will listen to you?”
Eleanor felt the old shame rise.
Then she looked toward Caleb.
He was standing quietly beside her.
Not answering for her.
Not trying to make her retreat.
Simply waiting.
She looked back at Vane.
“I don't know what a judge will do.”
The man smiled.
Then Eleanor continued.
“But I know the truth doesn't become less true because Solomon Whitmore is wealthy.”
For a moment, Vane stared.
Then he climbed onto his horse.
Caleb watched the riders begin their descent.
He didn't relax until they disappeared beyond the first bend.
Then he looked toward Eleanor.
“You were magnificent.”
She blushed.
“I was frightened.”
He smiled.
“So was I.”
Eleanor stared.
Then laughed softly.
For a moment, they stood together beneath the cold mountain sunlight.
Then she reached for his hand.