Charlene Sands (7 page)

“Pint-Size?” Tyler laughed, too. “’Xcept that yearling’ll grow bigger than ole Blaze here.”

Their gazes locked. Lily saw the reflection of her amusement in Tyler’s smiling eyes. Her smile faltered when she noticed his eyes travel down to stare at her
mouth. Several seconds went by before Tyler looked away. He lifted a blade of grass, perusing it with great interest.

“Tomorrow morning, I promised to take Bethann for a ride. You might as well come along. I’ve got a mare that’s lady-broke in the stable. Real gentle horse.”

“I think I’d like that, Tyler, but I’m warning you— I may not take to riding.”

Tyler stretched out his legs on the tall grass and leaned his head against the tree. “Lily, there ain’t much, I’ve noticed, you don’t take to.”

“Really?”

“Yep. That’s the reason I wanted to hire you. I knew you’d make a darn good—” Tyler paused and glanced away. Damn, he’d put his foot in it this time.

“Housekeeper?” Lily said quietly.

Tyler searched Lily’s face. She was his housekeeper, but why’d he feel as though he’d somehow insulted her? Maybe because he knew she was much more. She brought order to his house, but with that also a sense of harmony. The house was alive again with conversation and laughter. He’d walk in after a long day on the range to the warming scents of a meal cooking, his daughter reciting the alphabet and a shy greeting from Lily.

She made his house a home again.

“You know you’ve won my men over with those biscuits and cakes you’re always sending to the bunkhouse.”

“They work hard.”

“Yeah, and there isn’t a one of them that wouldn’t take a bullet for you, Lily.”

That made Lily smile. “You know someone plowed up the rest of the weeds in the garden.”

Tyler arched his brows. “Really now. Were you disappointed?” Tyler hoped not. After he’d seen the abuse her hands were taking trying with all her might to yank out those weeds, he stole out of the house early one morning and shoveled up the ground.

“No. It was a sweet gesture. None of the men owned up to doing it, though.” When Lily glanced his way, he gave her an innocent look. “I don’t suppose you know who did it?”

“Don’t suppose I do.”

Lily sighed and began putting the food away. “I’ll be happy when I see those roots take hold. Radishes are fast growers. They’ll be breaking through the soil soon enough.”

Reluctant to leave the tranquillity, Tyler took a long look at the lush surroundings, then glimpsed the woman he enjoyed spending the morning with, before standing up. He reached down to take her hand. “Lily, I’ve got to be getting back. There’s a pile of paperwork I’ve got to do today.”

Lily took his hand and stood. They faced each other. Lily’s pale blue eyes gleamed as she took in the scenery. “I’d like to come here again.”

Her thick hair, lifted by a breeze, shone in the sunlight. It didn’t matter that her gray dress hung loosely about her body or that her complexion was too wan to be considered comely. Tyler was unwilling to release her hand.

Together, hand in hand, they walked to his horse and mounted, leaving the solitude of the lush meadow behind.

Later that day Lily cut out the pattern to the new dress she planned on sewing. The blue and green calico print would be trimmed with white lace. It was a frivolous notion, but she always wanted a dress adorned with lace or ruffles. This one would have both.

Lily wondered when her practical nature turned fanciful. She’d never done much of anything in her life that wasn’t entirely sensible. Out of necessity she’d always had to make do. Her father’s gambling ways had assured her a life of meager belongings. She’d stopped blaming him a long time ago and accepted her fate. She was a plain-looking woman, too tall and slender to bring on much notice. She wasn’t a woman inclined to fancy things.

But now she had cash in her pocket, friends on the ranch and a home she could temporarily call home. She felt fortunate and decided to indulge herself a bit.

On her last trip to town she’d not only purchased several yards of various colored calicos to make new dresses for both Bethann and herself, she’d surrendered to a dire yearning and bought yardage of corn-flower-blue satin. Years ago she’d seen a dress in Godey’s Lady Book she’d never forgotten. The lines of the dress were soft and feminine, flowing over the woman’s body like a gentle caress. She’d memorized the pattern. One day, Lily vowed, she would make that dress for herself.

She’d put it on in the privacy of her room and twirl around, glancing at herself in the mirror from time to time. It would be a vivid reminder…she was a woman.

If only Tyler would see her as a woman. He knew she was a lady. Admittedly, that’s the reason he wanted her to stay on at the ranch, for Bethann’s sake.
But to be looked upon as a woman by Tyler would surely be a dream come true.

This morning when he’d held her hand, for just one moment Lily imagined him wanting her—the way a man wants a woman. Silly. Tyler had proven himself to be a gentleman in her presence. Taking her hand meant nothing to him but a simple way of offering his assistance. Before helping her mount his horse, he’d gently squeezed her hand and glanced at her lips. Lily’s lips parted in wonderment. What would it feel like being kissed by Tyler Kincaide? She banished the ridiculous thought.

No one had ever kissed her before, except Jimmy McMurphy back behind the schoolhouse when she was twelve years old. But that really didn’t count, because once he’d stolen a quick kiss, he’d dashed off as though his britches were on fire. Lily remembered rubbing the moistness off her lips, thinking kissing wasn’t pleasant at all.

Somehow she knew kissing Tyler Kincaide would be different. The thought alone made her heart flutter.

Lily folded the material and pattern she’d cut out, putting them away in a drawer. She’d been inside thinking fanciful thoughts too long. She needed to clear her head. Leaving her room, she stepped outside and took a deep breath. She stretched her arms over her head and straightened her stiff body. The air was fresh and clean. An early afternoon drizzle stamped down much of the Texas dust circulating about. The rain had also softened the soil—an invitation to plant her garden too enticing to resist.

Joellen Withers had sent a large pot filled with flower bulbs, ready for transplanting, back with Wes the other afternoon. Wes must have spouted off about
Lily’s garden and Joellen, generous to a fault, had surprised her. In turn, Lily baked the Withers family two fresh fruit pies and had a ranch hand deliver them. She’d wanted to present them in person to the thoughtful woman, but with Tyler leaving on roundup in a few days, there was too much to do at the ranch. Besides, Lily mused, the idea of having to be cordial to Letty Sue was not at all appealing.

“Aft’noon, Miss Lillian.” Randy tipped his hat and stepped a foot on the porch.

“Hello, Randy.”

“Nice day, ain’t it?” He removed his hat, fingering the brim.

“Hmm, yes. The rain’s cleared out all the bugs and dust.”

“I wanted to thank you for sending over those molasses cookies. They hardly made their way ’round the bunkhouse.”

Lily chuckled. “Nothing better for a woman to hear than her food’s in demand. I’m glad you enjoyed them.”

“Uh, we did. Excuse me, Miss Lillian, but I got something I want to ask you, so I’m just gonna come right out and say it.”

Lily turned a serious eye on Randy. She could tell he was nervous. With a wide smile, she coaxed softly, “Go on.”

He put his head down. Lily thought he’d wear out the rim of his hat from all the rubbing he was doing. “It’s just that, some of the boys said…well, they said you’re the boss’s woman. Said I’d be crazy to even ask.”

Of all the things she’d expected him to say, this was not within a realm of possibility. Randy stared at her,
a red blush colored his face. She cleared her throat and made her declaration. “I’m Mr. Kincaide’s housekeeper. I’m Bethann’s teacher and…friend. And no, I’m not his woman, Randy.”

“That’s what I told the boys. I was sure of it, Miss Lillian.” The tight lines in Randy’s young face relaxed.

“Why?”

“Well, ma’am, there’s a barn dance next month and if no one’s asked you yet, I’d be honored if you’d attend with me.”

“Me?” Lily’s voice squeaked in astonishment. “I’m truly sorry. I couldn’t possibly go.”

Randy put his head down. “I see.”

“No!” she said emphatically. Randy’s feeling were hurt. She couldn’t have that. “You don’t understand. It’s just that I…well, I don’t know how to dance.”

His head shot up. “Y-you don’t?”

Lily laughed. “No. I’m afraid I don’t.”

“I could teach you.”

His hopeful expression softened Lily’s heart. She braced both hands on her hips. “And how does a strapping, big cowboy like you know so much about dancing?”

“I got me five older sisters. Every time one of ’em wanted to try out a new step or two, guess who they picked? I’m pretty good ’cause I got loads of practice. I’d be happy to teach you.”

The enthusiasm in his voice was contagious. Lily would love to learn how to dance. “We’ll give it a try. If I don’t trip you up or worse, I might just go with you.”

With a nod, he agreed. “Howdy, boss,” Randy said,
taking his smiling eyes off Lily to greet Tyler who had just come from the corral.

“Randy, you look happier than a cat that’s tipped over the milk bucket.” Tyler gave Lily a questioning look.

“Randy’s agreed to teach me how to dance,” Lily said cheerfully. “I’ve never learned.”

Tyler pushed his hat farther back on his head. “And why do you need to learn?”

“Uh—well…” Lily looked from Randy to a frowning Tyler. She said very slowly. “If I learn then I can go to the barn dance.”

Tyler folded his arms across his middle and shot Randy a menacing look. “A dance? When?”

“The Hendersons are having the annual barn dance up at their place next month,” Randy offered. He looked to Lily. “They always throw a big wingding after roundup.”

“Never cared for the dang things myself.” Tyler stared at his ranch hand.

Randy gave his boss a wide grin, then excused himself to do his daily chores. Lily stepped down from the veranda, having to pass by Tyler to head for the barn. “Excuse me,” she said when he blocked her path. The man didn’t budge from the spot. He stood there with hands on hips, staring at her. She had to sidestep around him to make her way. What’s gotten into him? When she returned with her gardening tools he was crouching, looking at the upturned soil.

“What’re you going to plant today?”

Lily kneeled down next to him. “Joellen sent a batch of potted flower bulbs. I thought they’d be pretty here, right by the steps. Daffodils, tulips, and of course, lilies.”

“Will they grow here?”

“They won’t have a choice.” Lily smiled sweetly.

Tyler knew she’d succeed. She’d nurture her garden until every last flower took hold. She looked so serene tending to her plants, taking her small shovel and tilling the soil. Her long braid fell off one shoulder, the tip of the plait landing in the dirt. Without thinking, he lifted her hair. In his large calloused hand, the silky tresses seemed to glide over his fingers like a soft kiss. When Lily glanced at him, he smiled. “Keeps getting in your way.”

“I should put it up.”

“Looks better down.”

Lily gave him a shy smile and resumed planting her flowers. She handled each plant as if it were a precious jewel. Her fingers lovingly guided the bulbs into the ground, then she smoothed the dirt evenly around. With one final pat, she gave a satisfied grin toward the newly planted soil and stood up.

Bethann ran straight into her arms, sobbing. “Bethann, what’s the matter?” Lily hugged her tight, pressing her lips to his daughter’s forehead.

“I—I can’t…find… Miss Daisy.”

“Oh, sweetie, we’ll find her. Don’t worry.” Lily’s words soothed her. She stopped crying.

“You…promise?”

“I do. She’s got to be around here someplace. I bet she’s taking a nap in a secret hiding place. Let’s sit down here on the steps and try to remember the last time we saw Miss Daisy.”

Tyler stroked the top of Bethann’s head gently. “If anyone can help find Miss Daisy, it’s Lily. Now, darlin’, I’ve got to get back to work. Remember, tomorrow you’re going to get to ride your new pony.”

Bethann gave him a shaky smile as she pulled Lily tighter. “Only if I find Miss Daisy, Papa.”

“That’s right.” Tyler’s gaze found Lily’s. “See you both at dinner.”

Tyler walked to the corral and met up with Wes. His old friend was pacing back and forth. “Tyler, this ’ere filly is too cankerous! Nearly cut my hand to shreds with all her blame movin’ an” ashufflin’. I been tryin’ to shod her for pert near a hour. Hammer’d in my own dang finger!”

Tyler looked at Wes’s hand. The old man was losing his eyesight, but he’d not be fool enough to bring up the subject. “You got to soothe her first, Wes. This filly’s high-strung.”

Wes sat down on a barrel. “What woman ain’t?”

Tyler laughed and stroked the horse, cooing soft words into her ear. He picked up the shoe and bent to lift the filly’s hoof. “Ain’t that the truth.”

“You talkin’ about that sweet thing, Miss Lillian? Ain’t nothin’ high-strung about her.”

“I was talking about Bethann!” He took the hammer to the horseshoe.

“Humph!” Wes grunted, eyeing Tyler. “Randy’s got him a hankering for yore hired help. He’s a want-in’ to stay put on the ranch to watch ov’r the ladies during roundup.”

Tyler stopped shoeing the horse to glance at Wes. “Can’t spare him. He’s my best cowpuncher. I’m leaving Jose here.”

Wes let out a long chuckle. “Jose? Well don’t that beat all. Interestin’ how you see fit leavin’ the only
married
cowpoke you got to watch ov’r the ranch.”

“Dang it, Wes! What’re you getting at?”

“Miss Lily Brody, boss.”

“What about her?”

“Ain’t no use denying you got feelin’s for her. Plain as that ole felt hat on yore head!”

“I got no feelings for no woman, Wes.” Tyler jammed the hammer handle into Wes’s hand and stalked off, the sound of the old man’s laughter buzzing in his head.

“P
apa says I look like my ma. Said she was the pertiest woman he’d ever seen.” Bethann sat on her knees and stared into the hearth. A small fire lingered.

Lily began brushing the girl’s wet hair. “From what I remember of your ma, she was very beautiful. And I think you’re going be just as lovely.”

Tyler peeked through the doorway, watching his daughter climb onto Lily’s lap and hug her doll to her chest. He wasn’t surprised to learn Lily had taken Bethann’s hand and gone searching for the doll as soon as he’d left them. They found the doll lodged under the horse trough. It must have fallen over from the fence post where Bethann had left her. “I don’t remember my ma that very much.”

“I’m sure your ma is watching down on you from heaven.” Lily put her arms around her and gave a tight squeeze. “She’s most likely very proud of you, sweetheart. You’re developing into quite a lady.”

“I don’t always want to be a lady.”

“I know. And you don’t have to be…well, not all the time.”

“You always are. My papa says you’re a right fine lady and I should listen to you.”

“Oh, but sometimes… I wish—”

“What’s all this wishing about?” Tyler asked.

Startled, Lily looked up. Tyler leaned against the door. Apparently she didn’t realize he’d been there.

“Girl talk.” Lily shot Bethann a conspiratorial grin.

Tyler glanced at his daughter held in Lily’s welcoming arms. “Time for bed, darlin’. Remember, I’m gonna show you how to feed Pint-Size in the morning before our ride.”

“Can Lily come, Papa?”

“I’ve asked her to.” He looked at Lily for confirmation. “Have you changed your mind?”

“I would like to learn if you have the time.”

With a nod he said, “We’ll leave after breakfast.” Tyler reached down and scooped Bethann out of Lily’s arms. The back of his hand brushed against Lily’s breast. It was accidental but the feel of her soft skin giving way from his touch sent a surge of heat through his body. He hadn’t made that kind of contact with a good woman since his marriage to Lizabeth. Of course there’d been the “ladies” at the local saloon. But it wasn’t the same. Just knowing of Lily’s innocence made the touching more enticing and, of course, wrong. But, he reminded himself, he hadn’t planned on touching her that way. It really had been an accident.

Tyler stole a look at Lily. Her eyes went wide. He thought better than to apologize. That would only make the situation more awkward. He chose to pretend nothing had happened. “If you’ll turn down her bed, I’ll tuck her in.”

Bethann wrapped both her chubby arms around Tyler’s
neck as Lily led the way to the bedroom. Lily pulled a multicolored quilt down neatly and gave a pat. Tyler set his daughter down and lifted the covers to her chin. He kissed her forehead before leaving. With arms folded, Tyler leaned against the door and watched as Lily and Bethann said their nightly prayers. It was a ritual Lily had instituted. One of many. A young girl needed some sense of stability in her life. Tyler had simply muddled through, hoping he was doing right by his daughter, but never really knowing for sure. Now, he felt justified having Lily here for Bethann. She’d already done wonders with his waif of a child.

With all the prayers recited, Tyler made a quick retreat. He’d grinned when he’d heard his name mentioned a time or two during the reciting of those prayers. His daughter had a good heart, asking the Lord to keep her Papa safe and happy. He’d always felt a sense of safety in Sweet Springs, until the shooting. Now his guard was up. He’d not let any harm come to those he loved.

As for happy, hell— Tyler Kincaide had known happiness in the arms of his wife. After her death, nothing seemed to matter except Bethann and the ranch. Sweet of Bethann to pray for him, though.

Tyler paused in the darkened hallway, deciding to wait for Lily. Only a flicker of light streamed in from the half crescent moon, but Tyler caught the scent of Lily’s hair and knew she was inches from him. He looked into questioning clear blue eyes. “I’ve got to say you’re doing a fine job with Bethann. She seems more agreeable. She minds you.”

“Thank you,” Lily replied in a hushed tone. “She’s a special child. And she’s very bright.”

Tyler nodded. “You’re good for her.”

Tyler’s eyes had adjusted somewhat to the dim light in time to see Lily’s cheeks turn pink. “I, uh, have grown quite fond of her.”

“I’m glad you’re staying on a while, Lily.”

Lily gave him a halfhearted smile. He knew she had very little choice in the matter. Sweet Springs wasn’t exactly a boon of opportunity for unmarried women. What scant jobs there were would hardly suit a woman like Lily. She wasn’t one to do menial labor and, of course, a job in the saloons was out of the question. Tyler was glad he was able to help her out and equally glad that his precocious daughter was in her care. He admired Lily’s intelligence.

He’d offered her marriage—an easy way out for most women, but not Lily. She, too, saw the futility of entering into a loveless, business-like marriage. But Tyler admitted he did like having Lily around and hoped she’d stay as long as possible…for Bethann. “Any news from your uncle?”

“Nothing yet, but I do have a letter I’d like to post. Maybe Wes could take it with him on his next trip to town?”

“Sure thing.”

“Thank you, Tyler. Well, I’d better be getting to bed, unless I can offer you a cup of coffee?”

“No, thanks. You don’t have to be waiting on me, Lily. Appreciate the thought. It’s right kind of you.” Tyler hesitated, lingering in the hallway. He was blocking her from going to her room. What he couldn’t figure out was, why? They both should be getting to bed, but there was this gnawing ache in the pit of his stomach. With brutal honesty, he recognized
it as loneliness. When Lily was around, he realized he felt far less lonely.

She cleared her throat and repeated, “Well, then, I’d better be getting to bed. Good night, Tyler.”

Tyler had no choice but to move out of her way to let her pass. “Uh-huh. ’Night, Lily.” He watched as she entered her room, then his body sagged and he slumped against the wall. Thumping his head three deliberate times, he hoped he’d knock some sense into his skull. What in tarnation was happening? He’d never given in to his feelings of loneliness before. He’d simply gritted his teeth, dug in and rode out the storm.

Just because he liked Lily, didn’t mean he could rely on her to ease his lonely days. He wouldn’t even give credence to her easing his lonely nights. That wasn’t ever going to happen. She’d made that clear from the start and he, too, had given his word.

So why was he standing in the dark, wishing he’d accepted Lily’s offer of coffee? He could be sitting in his kitchen watching her busy about the cookstove, fussing over him. He’d ask her to share a cup and they’d talk quietly. Every once in a while she’d lift clear blue timid eyes his way and the sharp pang of loneliness would ebb some.

Lily woke earlier than usual. The sun hadn’t made its grand entrance to welcome the day yet. She rose slowly, letting the crisp air awaken her senses, then crossed the room and took her robe from the peg on the door. Shivering slightly, she wrapped herself into the warmth of her robe.

A flicker of movement caught her eye as she glanced toward her window. The sound of distant
hooves whispering and soft nickering filled the air as she moved closer to her window. Lifting the curtain to the side, she took a better look. From inside the crowded corral Tyler strode with even steps and rope in hand, stalking a chestnut gelding, one of many in his string. With quiet strength, he moved through flowing manes and flaring nostrils in a fluid grace compared only to the horses themselves. He seemed one with them. The other horses sidestepped out of his way, swishing tails and lifting heads as they snorted at the disruption.

Lily held her breath and watched man against animal. With the ease of an experienced horseman, Tyler shook out a broad loop in his rope. Dust rose up as a gust of wind caught and held in the air. The horse Tyler stalked eyed his approach and whirled away, finding a corner of the corral. The white-socked gelding tensed, his hind quarters stood firm as he met Tyler head-on. Lily heard Tyler’s deep voice soothing the horse, although she wasn’t able to hear the actual words he’d spoken to the tentative animal.

With swift, smooth agility, Tyler cast his rope. His wrist turned downward at the moment of release and the open loop fell softly on target. With a yank, Tyler threw his weight on the rope as the loop tightened around the horse’s neck. The horse eyed Tyler, then dropped his head in resignation. Tyler pulled the horse close, stroked his coarse mane and led him into the barn.

Lily sighed and turned away from the window. Her heart skipped a beat every time she viewed the man. Tyler wasn’t only handsome in his own right, he was a decent man and a good father to Bethann. Lily once
again pondered what it would be like to have Tyler Kincaide view her as a woman.

Silly.

But it was true. Lily longed for more in life. She wanted to love a man with her whole heart. She wanted a family. Children to raise. She wanted to know the feeling of putting a twinkle in a man’s eye. To make him smile right before his lips touched hers.

That would never happen with Tyler.

Lily glanced at the letter that was ready to post, sitting on her pinewood dresser. Another letter to yet another town, hoping to find her uncle. This one was addressed to the sheriff of Dodge City. She’d post one each week until she received news of Uncle Jasper’s whereabouts. Her uncle would provide the family Lily yearned for. He’d take her in. And she’d finally have a real home.

But sadness surrounded her heart thinking of leaving the Circle K. How could she leave Bethann? She’d already come to love the child. Bethann, the precious, adorably mischievous little girl.

With a deep sigh, she dressed quickly, choosing a light brown skirt, long-sleeved blouse and a stiff suede vest. She pulled on her dark worn leather boots. The air would be crisp this morning when they set out on their ride.

Lily made a breakfast of biscuits, eggs, slab bacon and coffee. She didn’t have to wake Bethann. The child was awake, dressed and eager to ride her new horse. Lily asked her to set out the plates on the table.

Bethann made a face, but did as she was told. The girl was learning to help more and more around the house. Lily would give her simple chores to do and
was proud of the child when she accomplished the task without too much fuss.

Tyler came into the kitchen, put his hat on the peg next to the door, gave Lily a quick smile and sat down to breakfast. The adults listened to Bethann’s excited chatter. Occasionally, Lily would shift her eyes from Bethann to catch Tyler’s loving gaze on his daughter. When breakfast was finished, Bethann offered to help Lily with the cleanup. Tyler patted his child’s head, giving her a prideful look, and said he’d meet up with them in the barn.

Minutes later Lily and Bethann walked hand in hand over to the barn. Tyler was in the tack room. He came out wearing a wide smile. “You two ladies ready?”

Bethann bobbed her head up and down. “We’re sure as anythin’ ready, Papa.”

Tyler glanced at Lily. She took in a deep breath. “I think so.”

Tilting his head, Tyler studied Lily’s face. “You catch on to things real quick. You’ll do fine.”

Lily doubted that. The reassuring look Tyler gave her didn’t help. She’d always been wary of riding.

“I had Wes make up a mounting block. It’ll be easier to hoist yourself onto the saddle. But right now, it’s feeding time.”

He showed Bethann where the barrel of oats was stored. “See those oats, darlin’? After Pint-Size eats her share of hay, she can have some oats. Horses eat more than you can figure. They need gallons of water, too. We can’t have them filling up on oats. The oats come last. Think of it as dessert.” He winked at his daughter. She giggled.

“They need salt every day, too. We’ve got scattered salt blocks out in the pasture and in the corral. From time to time they stop and get their fill.”

“How much hay do I feed her, Papa?”

“We’ll lead her over to the rack here, let her eat some. Don’t hurry your horse when you set her to feed. They eat slow like, take their time. Remember, they can graze on the land when we stop for a rest later.”

Tyler led Pint-Size out of her stall by the reins. “Careful, darlin’. Don’t ever get directly behind a horse. Never know when they turn skittish. Might just rear up and kick. Now, come here and touch her coat. Easy like.”

Tyler lifted Bethann up to let her stroke the animal’s shining coat. Chubby hands glided up and down. Bethann wore a beautiful awe-filled smile. “Papa, she likes it.”

“Sure she does, haven’t seen a lady yet that—” Tyler’s face reddened, he choked back a cough, set his daughter down and glanced at Lily. She chuckled. “I mean, horses like to be groomed.

“I’ve chosen a gentle mare for you, Lily. She’s been fed and saddled.” Tyler untied a dappled gray from the barn stall post and brought her to face Lily. “This is Pearl.”

Lily looked at her foe and shivered. True, the horse appeared gentle, but Lily’s doubts had more to do with her own ability than the horse’s sweet nature. “Pearl.”

“Lily?”

She shifted her attention to Tyler. He was giving her a strange look. “Want to try to mount her?”

“Go on, Miss Lily,” Bethann coaxed with her wide-eyed innocence. The child had dauntless faith in her. Lily didn’t want to let Bethann down.

“Sure. I’ll try.”

Lily listened to Tyler’s instructions for mounting. He was giving the lesson to both she and Bethann. “Always from the left, grip the mane with your left hand, put your foot in the stirrup and hold on to the cantle with your right hand for support. Then spring up and throw your right leg over the horse, settle yourself quickly in the center so the horse doesn’t lose his balance or get confused.”

Lily blinked. It seemed too much to remember. That and fear of looking the fool made her cringe.

Tyler led Pearl out to the side of the barn where Wes set up the mounting block. Lily watched Tyler position the horse. He gave her a nod. “Go ahead now, Lily. Step on up. I’ve got Pearl. She’s isn’t going anywhere.”