Sam's Legacy Read online

  She sat up straight in the saddle, doing her best to hide her surprise at Sam seeking her out. “I have every right to be here, Deputy Covington, as do the others.”

  He moved toward her, not letting go of the reins, his voice calm. “Why, Jinny? This isn’t something you want burned into your memory.”

  Letting out a breath, she leaned down. “We aren’t here to watch. August Fielder filed an appeal and sent a request to the governor for a stay of execution. We’re hoping to convince Brodie to delay the execution for a few days.” She nodded behind Sam. Quinn and Colin had dismounted, having a heated discussion with their cousin.

  Sam turned, seeing Brodie’s face redden as the debate continued. He calmed when Fielder stepped up beside him, placing a hand on the sheriff’s shoulder. Sam let go of the reins. “You should’ve told Brodie your intentions, Jinny. This isn’t the way to work with your brother.”

  She opened her mouth to speak, then shut it, biting her lower lip. Glancing at Sam, she sighed. “I’m sure you’re right. It wasn’t our intention to leave him out of it, but it all happened so fast…” Her voice trailed off, pain flashing across her face when she saw Brodie turn to look at her, his disappointment evident. “All I can say is we did what we thought was right.”

  “I need to find out what’s happening.” Sam turned away, striding toward Brodie, not bothering to look back at Jinny. His hands fisted at his sides as he approached the group of men. He agreed with the motives and reasons for the action, but not the way Brodie and his deputies had been left out. Stopping, he looked at the sheriff. “What do you want us to do?”

  A muscle in Brodie’s jaw twitched as he looked from one man to the next. “Disperse the crowd. I’ve agreed to put off the hanging for forty-eight hours.”

  “I’ll let Nate and Jack know.” Sam glanced at Colin and Quinn, seeing strained expressions, not the looks of relief he expected. Walking down the street, he called out to the spectators. “There’s nothing to see today. We’re asking for you to go back inside your shops or return to your homes.” He repeated it several times before spotting Nate.

  “What’s happening?”

  “Fielder has filed an appeal and contacted the governor about staying the hanging. Brodie has agreed to wait forty-eight hours.”

  Nate nodded. “Can’t say as I’m sorry about it.”

  “Me, either. I don’t think Brodie’s too pleased with the way it came down. Well, let’s get the people out of the streets. I’ll talk with Jack. Brodie should be the one to tell the prisoners.”

  As he crossed the street, Sam’s gaze landed on a group of men sitting atop their horses. He didn’t recognize a single one. Disturbed by their grim expressions, the way their hands rested on the butt of their guns, he committed the faces to memory. A tug in his gut told him he’d be seeing them again.

  “Deputy. Hold up.” Clarence Maloney, owner of the general store and Conviction’s postmaster, held out a letter. “This came for you. I heard the execution is postponed. That right?”

  Sam opened the letter, nodding absently at Clarence as he began to read the contents. Initial confusion was replaced by his jaw hardening, anger surging through him. Shifting his stance, he released a silent curse.

  “You all right, Deputy?”

  Letting out a frustrated breath, he nodded, gritting his teeth. “I’m fine. I’ll be in the store later to post my own letter.”

  “I’ll head back then.” Clarence hurried back down the street, his gaze once again locking on the scaffolding before disappearing inside Maloney’s.

  Sam watched him leave, his thoughts fixed on the contents of the letter. He hadn’t seen this coming, never even considered it. It had been years since he’d heard from her, anticipating they’d never be in contact again.

  Lifting his head, Sam spotted Jinny down the street. His stomach roiled at how this could change his life and the future he planned. Taking a deep breath, he slid the letter into a pocket, resigned to deal with what had just become a priority in his life.

  Chapter Two

  “I’m sorry, Brodie. We would’ve said something sooner, but Mr. Fielder made the decision to move forward when he visited the ranch yesterday. Colin and Quinn wanted to ride into town last night to forewarn you.” Jinny sighed, looking at the stoic face of her brother. “I’m afraid Emma, Sarah, and I talked them out of it. We thought you’d understand.”

  “I do understand, lass. Still, you shouldn’t have stopped them from coming to talk with me. I’m the sheriff. I should’ve known you and Fielder were doing this.” Brodie was also angry with town leader and attorney, August Fielder, the man who’d convinced him to take the job as sheriff.

  He’d already told the three prisoners what Fielder had done, the hope on their faces moving him in a way he couldn’t describe. They were the age of his younger cousins, who also took their turns releasing stress by drinking too much, unaware of the damage their actions could cause.

  “Sheriff MacLaren?” A familiar voice captured his attention.

  “Mrs. Belford. I believe you know my sister, Jinny.”

  “Yes. Hello, Jinny.”

  She stepped up, touching the woman’s arm. “How are you doing, Mrs. Belford?”

  “I’ve been better.” The older woman glanced at the structure, a shudder running through her. “I wonder if I could have a word with you, Sheriff.”

  “Of course. We can go into the jail.”

  Her eyes widened. “Oh, no. I’d rather stay out here. Jinny is welcome to hear what I have to say.”

  “Let’s at least sit down.” Brodie took her elbow, escorting her to a nearby bench. He sat on one side, Jinny taking a seat on the other side of Bob Belford’s widow. “What may I do for you?”

  “I heard August Fielder filed an appeal and has contacted the governor.”

  Brodie nodded. “Aye, he has. I’m sorry if his actions upset you.”

  “No, Sheriff. You misunderstand.” She gripped her hands in her lap. “My husband would not have wanted those boys to hang. I think what Mr. Fielder has done is right, and I’m certain Bob would agree.”

  A whoosh of air escaped Brodie’s lips. “What makes you so sure?”

  Staring down at her hands, she sucked in a shaky breath. “Bob was dying of cancer. Doc Vickery gave him a few months to live, but we knew he was being optimistic.” She glanced up, her eyes welling with tears. “I don’t believe Bob would’ve lasted another week. The pain never let up, the laudanum had stopped working, and whiskey did nothing. He couldn’t sleep or eat. My husband was wasting away before my eyes.” She opened her reticule, pulling out a worn piece of paper. “I found this in Bob’s desk after he died.”

  Taking the paper, he unfolded it, reading the scribbled words of a man who knew he had little time left. Shaking his head, Brodie looked up. “Does this mean what I think?”

  “Unfortunately, I believe it does. He planned to ride out and never come back. I can’t say for certain, but I’m convinced Bob meant to end his life the day after the shooting. What those boys did was wrong. Should they die for it? I don’t believe so.” She swiped at the tears on her cheeks. “I can’t have their deaths on my conscience.”

  “Aye, ma’am. I understand. Have you spoken to Mr. Fielder?”

  “Not yet. I wanted to let you know I’ve sent my own telegram to the governor, asking him to commute their sentences.” The corners of her mouth tipped up slightly. “I gave the governor my suggestions.”

  Chuckling, Brodie glanced at a surprised Jinny, then set a comforting hand over Mrs. Belford’s. “Thank you for telling me. You’ll have my support, whatever is decided.”

  “Thank you, Sheriff. I knew you’d understand.” Rising, she smiled at Jinny. “It was good to see you again, young lady. You have a good brother in Brodie.”

  Jinny and Brodie stood, her face reddening, guilt washing over her. Bob Belford’s widow had handled the request for clemency better than the MacLarens.

  Nodding, her gaze moved to Bro
die, then quickly away. “Aye. He’s a wonderful man.”

  “I need to get back to the ranch. Please pray for a good outcome.”

  Tipping his hat to her, Brodie placed an arm around his sister’s shoulders. “Aye, ma’am. We will.”

  Leaning up, Jinny placed a kiss on his cheek. “You’ve made quite an impression on Mrs. Belford.”

  Brodie chuckled, dropping his arm to his side. “Perhaps, lass. Say nothing to our family, or anyone else, about the letter Bob wrote to his wife.”

  “I understand. It’s a private message. Still, I’m glad she shared his intentions with you.” Hoping for a glimpse of Sam, she scanned the people still milling about.

  “I saw him go into the jail before Mrs. Belford walked up.”

  Shooting a look at Brodie, she shook her head. “I don’t know who you’re talking about.”

  A smile curved the corners of his mouth. “I’m sure you don’t, lass.”

  “Well, I suppose it’s time to join the others for the ride back to the ranch.”

  “Maggie and I will see you at Sunday supper.”

  “You aren’t angry with us for not getting word to you sooner?”

  Turning toward her, he gripped her shoulders. “I’m disappointed, but not angry, lass. I’ve already had words with Colin and Quinn. The lads know how I feel. It’s doubtful this will happen again.” Seeing Sam come out of the jail, he nudged Jinny. “Now is your chance to talk to him.”

  Her chest squeezed as she wondered if the entire family knew her feelings toward Brodie’s deputy. “How would you feel if Sam wanted to court me?”

  Brodie’s gaze narrowed. It had bothered him when he first realized his sister had feelings for Sam. When he discovered his deputy might feel the same, he’d come to accept the possible outcome. He loved Jinny and would never stand in her way. Sam was a man he respected, had already learned much from him. Brodie could see no reason to stand in their way, doubting their father, Ewan, would object.

  His face sobered. “It’s between you and Sam. He’s a good man, but not good enough for you.”

  She laughed. “You’d say that about any man who wanted to court me.”

  Brodie smiled. “Aye. It’s my job as your brother.” He stepped forward as Sam approached. “Is Jack still in the jail?”

  Sam glanced at Jinny, his features grim, then turned to look at Brodie. “He and Nate are both there. If you don’t need me for a while, I have some business to attend to. It won’t take long.”

  “Do what you have to. I’ll be at the jail when you’ve finished.” Brodie bent to kiss Jinny’s cheek. “Let him know what Mrs. Belford did.”

  Jinny watched Brodie walk away.

  “What did he mean for you to tell me what Mrs. Belford did?”

  Sam’s strained features softened as she explained the widow’s decision, mentioning the letter, but omitting the part about what her husband intended to do.

  “What do you think, Sam?”

  “She acted on her conscience. I don’t blame her. It would be hard knowing you could have stopped someone from dying when you had reasons to prevent it.”

  Sam’s gaze moved over her, desire growing. His heart squeezed when he saw the same look in her eyes.

  Until he’d received the letter, Sam had every intention of approaching Brodie, getting his approval to court Jinny. In the span of a couple minutes, his plans had changed. Too bad his feelings for the woman before him hadn’t. Sam wanted her as much as always, didn’t foresee a time when he wouldn’t, which made what he had to do that much harder. Drawing in a deep breath, he touched her elbow.

  “Walk with me, Jinny.”

  Swallowing the excitement at his invitation, she allowed him to escort her down the street and into a small restaurant. Taking a table in a quiet corner, he pulled out her chair.

  “I hope this is all right.”

  Smiling, she nodded. “Aye, this is perfect.”

  A young man walked up, pointing to a menu on the wall. “Hello, Deputy. What would you like today?”

  Sam looked at Jinny. “Are you hungry?” When her stomach growled, he chuckled. “I believe you are. Two of your specials, please.”

  Jinny’s face flushed as she removed the hand settled on her disruptive stomach. “Thank you for inviting me to lunch.”

  Sam shifted in his seat, knowing she might not feel the same after he told her the reason for wanting to see her. Pushing aside his personal feelings, he leaned forward. “Jinny, I—”

  “Here you are. Two specials.” Placing plates before them, the waiter left to see to another table.

  “This smells wonderful.” Picking up her fork, she took a bite. “Mmm.”

  “Seems this restaurant was a good choice. I eat here a few times a week.” His appetite had vanished. Still, he forked a bite, chewing slowly.

  “You started to say something before the food arrived.” Glancing up at him, Sam couldn’t miss the enthusiasm on her face. He knew what she expected him to say. It wasn’t to be.

  Setting down his fork, he swallowed the dread he felt. “I’m leaving Conviction, Jinny.”

  Her hand stilled partway to her mouth, her hopeful expression dissolving. “Leaving?”

  “There is business I must attend to back home.”

  “But you’ll return, right?” Her stomach clenched at the distress on his face.

  Sam shook his head. “I don’t know.”

  Sucking in a shaky breath, Jinny set down her fork, no longer hungry. “I see.”

  “I wouldn’t be leaving if I didn’t have to.”

  She nodded, then looked away, his words barely registering. Her brain had shut down, as if protecting her from the pain closing around her.

  “Jinny…”

  Focusing on Sam once again, she straightened her spine, doing what she could to hide the devastation raging inside her. “I don’t know what to say.” To her disgust, her voice broke. Setting the napkin on the table, she pushed back the chair and stood. “Thank you for lunch, Sam.” Turning, she rushed off before he had a chance to stop her.

  “Jinny, wait.”

  She didn’t respond, pushing through the door and dashing down the street. Frustrated at the tears pooling in her eyes, Jinny tried to remember where she’d left her horse. A hand gripping her arm had her stopping. “Let me go.”

  “Jinny, let me explain.” Sam tried to turn her toward him, feeling her resist. “There are reasons I must go.”

  She refused to look at him, let him see how much his leaving hurt. She’d been a fool to dream about Sam, hoping someday he’d feel the same. “I’m certain there are, and I respect that you believe you must leave.”

  Looking around, he eased her between two buildings, out of the range of prying eyes and ears. Placing his hands on her shoulders, he held steady, even as she twisted to leave.

  “Look at me, Jinny.” He waited until she stopped squirming, her reluctant gaze meeting his. “I don’t want to leave. It’s something I have to do. You were the reason I stayed beyond the time I’d agreed to with Brodie.”

  Her eyes widened. “I don’t understand. Why must you go now?”

  Letting his hands slip from Jinny’s shoulders to stroke her arms, he felt her shiver, his own body tightening. A life with her was what he wanted. He’d thought of little else the last few months, yet it may now be out of his control.

  His resolve began to slip as she moved closer, her feelings for him clear on her face. Even as his hands moved to her back, he knew it was a mistake. Drawing her to him, he leaned down, brushing a soft kiss across her lips. Seeing the intensity in her eyes, feeling her hands tighten on his arms, he took her mouth again, letting passion take control.

  A thrill rushed through him as he realized she knew little of what was happening. He doubted she’d been kissed before, yet her response was immediate. Moving his lips across her jaw, trailing kisses down her neck, he felt a shudder rush through her.

  “Sam…”

  Her soft plea brought an
unwelcome flash of sanity. Placing one more kiss on her lips, he pulled Jinny close, tucking her head below his chin.

  “There are things you don’t know about me. I wish it could be different. You know I’d stay if I could.”

  Her body stiffened at his whispered words. Moving her hands to his chest, she pushed away. Clearing her throat, Jinny took another step back. “I should go.”

  “I’ll walk with you.”

  “Nae. It would be better if I go alone.” Taking a few hesitant steps, she stopped. “When will you be leaving?”

  His throat worked as he sucked in a slow breath. “As soon as a decision has been made on the prisoners. I can’t leave Brodie with just two deputies.”

  “A few days then.” Her voice was devoid of all emotion. “Then I won’t see you again.” She tried to smile, but couldn’t manage it. “I wish you the best, Sam. Always the best.” Without waiting for him to respond, she hurried away, leaving him feeling a loss greater than he’d ever known.

  Chapter Three

  As the miles passed, Sam stared out the train window, seeing nothing. He’d left his saddle and horse, Pirate, with Stein Tharaldson. One bag, holding everything else he owned, had been stowed near his seat. Sam would get word to Stein to sell Pirate back to the MacLarens if returning to Conviction became impossible. Leaving his horse gave him a measure of hope he’d return.

  The last few days had been spent in solitude, daydreaming of the woman he had to leave behind. He needed to concentrate on the reason for returning to Maryland and his parents’ home in Baltimore, not on Jinny and a kiss he couldn’t scrub from his mind.

  Brodie accepted his resignation without asking questions, telling Sam he could have his job back anytime. Once the governor’s decision to change the sentence on the three boys had been received, he’d made plans to leave. After sending a reply to the man who’d contacted him, he mailed a short letter to his parents, letting them know of his return.

  It angered him how he’d just learned of what happened, of obligations never considered. It had been years with no word, then a detailed letter changed his life.