Stronger Than the Rest by Shirleen Davies Read Free Book Online Page A

little understanding of those outside her circle. Tess was genuine with a deep caring of those around her. Her lovely but plain clothes fit well and highlighted her soft curves. The image of that softness brought heat to his face and a desire that grew with each thought of her.
    He’d sat with Patricia for hours, talking of her dreams, which were few , and what each wanted from a marriage. If possible, he planned to have several children and raise them at the MacLaren ranch in Fire Mountain, Arizona territory. He’d teach them to ride, raise cattle, breed horses, and shoot. Although Patricia listened politely to everything he said, it was the last that got her full attention.
    “But, Drew, how can you even think of teaching children how to shoot after what happened to you? Guns are dangerous and have no place in a civilized house.”
    “Guns are a necessary fact of life on a ranch, as essential as food and water. It would be foolish not to teach my children how to use a gun and handle a rifle.”
    “Well, I don’t understand it. There will be no guns in my house,” she stated in a firm tone.
    “And that’s the major reason why we don’t suit. Our lives don’t match, not in any way.”
    After a while, Patricia calmed down and her protests ceased. Drew knew the moment she accepted his decision that they weren’t meant to marry. She was stubborn but also smart. The woman knew how to back off graciously. He admired her for it but he wouldn’t miss her demanding nature or selfish ways. What a contrast she was to Tess.
    Tess loved horses, reading, and her family. It was hard for her to open up and trust people, but she had a big heart, a gentle touch, and beautiful smile. How he cherished that smile. She and his aunt had been quiet during the trip, each enjoying the scenery, reading, or keeping to their own thoughts. That was fine. He’d needed the time alone to gather his thoughts.
    “May I join you?” Tess stood beside his chair, ducking to look out the train window. “It’s almost too beautiful for words.” She watched the fast moving river that twisted and turned, following the railroad’s path.
    Drew gestured to the seat across from him. “That’s one of my favorite sights. The river flows most of the way from just outside of Denver to Great Valley.”
    Tess settled across from him.
    “I wish there’d been more time in Denver for you to see the city,” Drew said, and meant it. “You and Aunt Alicia didn’t see much during your stay.”
    “That’s fine. We came to see you, not the town. At least that’s why I came.” Tess didn’t look at him, keeping her eyes focused on the rushing river below.
    Drew watched her, wondering how much to say, or if he should say anything. There was still so much uncertainty in his life.
    “Mother and Father will be glad to see you, as will everyone else. We have a mare ready to foal. You’ll be there to watch it.” Tess’s eyes met his. “You’ve talked about how much you like watching new foals entering the world. We’re hoping for a colt.”
    “I still plan to return to Fire Mountain someday, work with Will and my brothers to grow the horse breeding program.” Drew took a deep breath, letting the air out slowly. “Tess, I don’t know how long it will take these legs to start working again or if I’ll ever walk. I’m trying. Each day it’s like I’m starting over again. I still have no feeling. They’re just these useless limbs dragging me down, forcing a life in this chair. It’s not a life I want to bring anyone else into.”
    Tess’s heart quickened. She wondered if he was speaking of her, but realized that no, he must be speaking of Patricia Dunnigan—working so hard to walk again so that he could be with the young woman in Denver. Her hopes plunged.
    “We’re coming up to Great Valley, Mr. MacLaren. There should be a carriage waiting for you.”
    Drew pulled his gaze away from Tess to look at the conductor. “Thank you.” He wanted to