The Jewel of His Heart by Maggie Brendan Read Free Book Online

drop by and take you to dinner at the hotel tonight? They have good food, and I’m not such bad company.”
    “Thank you, but no.” She stared at the paper and started coming up with the verbiage for the ad. She could feel his eyes boring down on her. “Why don’t you take a seat, and I’ll write this up.”
    “Okay, have it your way.” Reluctantly, he pulled up a chair and gave her the particulars for the ad. “You have beautiful handwriting, Juliana.”
    “Thank you. I’ll read it back to you now.” When she was through, she noticed Albert out of the corner of her eye appraising the situation but continuing to work. “How much do we charge for that, Albert?”
    “Two bits for the week. Then if you need to run it again, you’ll have to stop by and let me know.”
    Wes agreed on her short write-up and flipped two bits down onto the desk, all the while never taking his eyes off Juliana. He strode toward the door, opened it, and did a half turn. “I’m not giving up on that date, you know. I’ll be back, rest assured.” He tipped his hat without even looking at Albert.
    “Good day, Mr. Owen,” she replied. Relieved that he was finally gone, Juliana carried the write-up to her boss for inspection.
    “Never did care for him much. Not exactly sure why,” Albert said, taking the paper from her.
    “He certainly is forward, and he made me feel a bit uncomfortable.”
    “I was watching and listening. You handled yourself very well, very businesslike. I think we will get along just fine.” He read over the write-up. “I approve. You have a natural writing style.”
    His words warmed her heart. The rest of the morning flew by with few interruptions. Earl, the general store owner, wanted to run an ad of the newest sewing machine available, and a young boy of about twelve dropped by to see Albert about delivering papers.
    Juliana left them alone to talk and went about tidying up the desk and surrounding area. Staying busy was best for her. It took her mind off her troubles and the future.
    When Marion came by at noon, Juliana was surprised at how quickly the time had passed.
    “I brought you some fried chicken and fruit because I know you wouldn’t stop to eat otherwise.” Marion opened the basket and started laying out lunch. “Mr. Spencer, I’ve enough for both of you.”
    “Thanks, Marion, but I promised my wife I would be home for lunch.” Albert paused. “I didn’t know you and Juliana were friends.”
    Marion glanced at Juliana. “Yes, good friends. You’ll find Juliana is a hard worker,” she said while she spread a napkin across Juliana’s desk.
    Juliana felt pleased her friend would endorse her.
    “I’ll take your word on that, Marion.” He winked, then lifted his coat off the peg by the front door. “You ladies have a nice lunch.” He went out the door and disappeared down the sidewalk.
    Marion couldn’t wait to find out about Juliana’s first day. “How’d it go?”
    Flashing her friend a big smile, Juliana answered, “Wonderful, really.” She decided it was best not to mention her encounter with Wes.
    After work, Juliana walked outside and tied her bonnet while Albert locked the door behind them. When she turned around, she saw Wes watching them, but she looked away and fell into step with Albert down the boardwalk. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Wes untie his horse from the hitching post and lift his hat in greeting. She didn’t want to encourage him with even so much as a look, but she could feel his eyes on her.

7
    Josh glanced around the dining room after being seated, unconsciously looking for the dark-haired young girl with the big blue eyes. She had told him she was staying at the hotel since her mother died, hadn’t she? He unfolded his napkin and placed it in his lap, thinking it would be nice to have dinner with her. He should have already headed back to camp to check on Andy, but he halfheartedly hoped he could connect with the girl. She made him feel