A Wicked Woman

Knox

“I am Knox Dare.” I eyed her as she frowned, realizing I wasn’t her husband. Then she glanced at Jed.
“As you can probably tell, we’re brothers.” He tipped his hat. “I’m Jed.”
A dimple appeared in her right cheek and I was entranced.
“I am sorry we were not here when the stage arrived. We are not used to one arriving early.”
“It is of no matter.” Her voice was soft, yet clear. “I am content on my own while I wait for Mr. Thomkins.”
Independence was a good thing, but I would not have her alone where some random miner might come and harass her. It was my job—our job—now to keep her safe, especially since Melvin would most definitely not be coming. I might not want Jed to have her, but he could damn well help keep her safe.
Remembering I held the ribbons in my hand, I thrust them toward her. “These are for you.”
Her eyes widened at my offering. So did Jed’s.
It was a delay, for I just wasn’t ready to tell her about Melvin yet.
“They are lovely. Blue is my favorite color. Thank you.” The smile she gave me changed her face entirely—and my desire to remain a bachelor. It was cruel and heartless to even think, but I was glad Melvin was dead, because now she could—no, would—be mine.
“Are you going to kneel before her like a swain all day?” Jed’s words made me flush and I was thankful for my beard to hide it. His shove to my shoulder had me standing.
“Miss Jamison, I’m afraid we have some bad news,” Jed murmured.
She frowned then and I wanted to punch Jed for stripping her of that smile.
“Your, um, well, Mr. Melvin Thomkins passed away last week.”