Smugglers' Roost: Northwoods, #4

By Paisley Kirkpatrick

Danielle's father hoped working for the pastor would curb her wandering spirit. Only he didn't know the preacher had set his heart on turning the girl into his next bride. Unfortunately, that isn't the only secret their man of the cloth is hiding.

In a chance encounter on the beach, smuggler Jax Wellington loses his heart to the redheaded beauty. A job near the trading post gives him a chance to learn her identity and pursue her.

Jealousy and moonshine put Danielle's life in danger. Jax won't stop searching until he finds the woman he loves and exposes the preacher's true nature.

Northwoods Series  #4   96,074 words

• Language: English
• Publisher: Paisley Kirkpatrick
• Release date: Mar 12, 2019
• ISBN: 9781540153463

Paisley Kirkpatrick

Drawing from her family history and a healthy imagination, Paisley Kirkpatrick kicked off a wild ride down a dusty trail with Marriage Bargain. It would be the first of many adventures during a time when men were men, and women knew how to put them in their place. Writing is in her blood, so it came as no surprise when she followed in the family footsteps. Her great, great grandfather kept a journal while traveling on a wagon train from Missouri to the California Goldrush of 1849. This beautifully written diary is considered five star and is kept in the Bancroft Library at the University of California, Berkley. Charles Kirkpatrick was married to the first woman to have a story printed in a magazine. With these credentials, is it any wonder that Paisley would use her talent to write historicals with a touch of romance? Paisley and her husband moved from the Sierra Mountains of California (near Coloma, where the goldrush originated) to a small community in the Northwoods of Wisconsin four years ago. History in the 1850's abounds and has given her a place to create both of her series. She's written six books in the Paradise Pines Series, and then seven in the Northwoods Series.

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Smugglers' Roost

This work is copyrighted © as of 2017 by Paisley Kirkpatrick

The cover design is copyrighted © by Gwen Phifer

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Names, characters and incidents depicted in this book are products of the author’s imagination, or are used in a fictitious situation. Any resemblances to actual events, locations, organizations, incidents or persons – living or dead – are coincidental and beyond the intent of the author.

Chapter One

Howling Hank's Trading Post

Northwoods, Wisconsin

May 1857

White puffy thunderheads rolled overhead and disappeared behind the tree tops. Danielle Hughes wondered what distant lands they'd soon call home. She couldn't even imagine living anywhere except here in the Northwoods, but in moments like this she saw dreams in the clouds and wanted nothing more than to follow them wherever they may go.

Men's laughter echoed from down the beach. She rose from her quiet spot in the high meadow grass and witnessed a tall, dark-haired man on the beach, barking out orders to a few men she'd never seen before. He turned his head. Her gaze locked with his piercing dark eyes for a moment. She gasped at his raised eyebrow and indiscreet smirk. How dare the rogue look at me in such a brazen manner?

For once she heeded common sense and hastened toward her mare. In her haste, she tripped, but caught her balance before she hit the ground. Her hair broke loose from the two combs she'd used that morning to hold its length back. She brushed the wisps away from her face and glanced over her shoulder. Good. He didn't follow me. She took a couple of calming breaths and slowed her pace.

Midnight pranced backwards until Danielle grabbed her bridle. Whoa. Calm down, girl. She ran her hand along the mare's neck until Midnight settled, and then Danielle mounted and kicked the mare's sides. She rode across the field at a fast clip until they reached the dirt road and then turned left toward the trading post.

She rounded a blind curve and, much to Danielle's dismay, she saw Luc Martel riding toward her. She pulled back on the reins and waited. Luc pulled up next to her and ripped the straps from her hands. Rage sparked in his dark eyes.

Your selfish act scared all of us, Danielle.

I know you think—

I'm not in the mood for a tantrum. You caused a lot of inconvenience.

I suppose Daddy is furious.

What do you think?

She knew another lecture awaited her at home. I'm sorry.

That's not good enough. You'd better have a good explanation for your absence these past three hours. Now git to the post.

Danielle shot him a look of disgust and grabbed the reins. She gave Midnight her lead and the horse sprinted all the way to the post. Danielle slowed her mare to a walk at the front gate and rode directly into the barn.

A ranch hand approached her and grabbed the bridle. Your father's been quite worried about you.

Danielle rolled her eyes. Not another lecture. She knew when she left home that she was disregarding her father's rule. He didn't want her or her sisters to ever leave the trading post without telling someone where they were going.

So, I've been told. She dismounted, handed him Midnight's reins, and walked across the quadrant to the lodge. She gathered her strength before stepping onto the porch and swinging the door open.

I'm home.

Her father sat alone in the main room. She braced herself for the lecture that was sure to come. I'm so sorry I worried you, Daddy.

He rose from the chair and walked toward her. His expression didn't give a clue as to his mood. He wrapped his arms around her and squeezed tight without saying a single word.

Hank broke his embrace and grabbed her by her upper arms. I don't ever want to be that worried again. Do you understand?

Yes. Tears streamed down her cheeks. I'm so sorry.

Please sit.

She settled on one of the straight-backed chairs in front of the rock fireplace. He set another chair in front of her, sat, and leaned forward. I want to hear what was so important that you scared the hell out of me these past hours.

I have no defense, Daddy. Time went by too fast and, as usual, my thoughts were in the clouds.

That's it? He shook his head. You have nothing else to say, daughter?

Danielle shook her head. No, nothing.

He leaned back and closed his eyes. She fidgeted in the chair. She almost told him about seeing the man on the beach with several others who were unfamiliar, but knew the confession would restrict where she could take her future rides.

He finally opened his eyes and stared at her. I've given your total lack of regard for our family rules a lot of thought. You've told me more than once that you'd like to work for Jacob in the church office. You now have my permission. My hope is that the job teaches you humility and responsibility.

His permission stunned her. He'd been denying his permission for a few weeks, so why give in now? I don't know what to say. I thought you were angry with me.

No, daughter, I'm not angry. I'm disappointed. You're almost eighteen years old and should have more sense than to leave the trading post without telling someone. You know accidents can happen. Your mother and I taught you better than to run off. You'll need to work hard to regain that trust you so carelessly tossed away today.

He stood and rested his hands on the back of his chair. Make sure you're home in time to clean the kitchen after the supper meal every evening until I release you from your punishment. Whether you choose to eat with us is entirely up to you.

Dazed, she got up and headed for the stairs. Daddy's never spoken to me like that before.

Madeleine tried to catch up with her. Danielle?

She ignored her sister and kept walking. What should I do to fix this mess?

Danielle. Madeleine grabbed her arm before she could open her bedroom door. Where have you been?

Please, I don't want to talk about it right now.

Her younger sister opened the door and pushed Danielle into her room. I don't care what you want. Everyone was concerned about you and now you're walking around in a fog. I want to know right this minute what happened.

Danielle plopped down on the edge of her bed. Daddy hates me.

Madeleine sat on the mattress next to her. No, he doesn't. He was worried somebody might have kidnapped you.

Danielle rolled her eyes. "Oh, come on, little sister, who'd want to take me?"

Madeleine wrapped her arm around Danielle's shoulder. Honey, you've turned into a beautiful young woman. You just don't realize it yet.

Danielle pushed Madeleine away and grabbed her arms. Who told you such drivel?

Her sister pulled from her grip and rubbed her arms. You don't have to be mean.

I'm sorry, Maddie. I'm not myself today. Please, tell me.

Actually, Preacher Timmons might have mentioned it while you were missing.

Jacob? What was he doing here? Causing trouble for me?

Kind of and when Daddy heard what Preacher Timmons said, he frowned at him.

Danielle sighed. If Daddy wasn't happy with Jacob's comment, I'm surprised I still get to work in the church office.

The preacher's an eligible man. Maybe Daddy wants you to marry him.

How could you even think of such a thing? Not that long ago Daddy said Jacob is too old for me to think of marrying.

Madeleine giggled. "He's not that much older than you. He'd make a good husband."

I'd take a man like that rogue by the lake over the preacher. The spark in his dark eyes turned me warm all over. And what a sight! His shirt opened to his waist... His muscular build... I certainly can't imagine Jacob looking that good underneath his shirt. She fanned herself with her hand. Mr. Rogue looks a lot like the pirate on the cover of the book Madeleine gave me. So rugged and handsome... A tingle ran through Danielle's body. She shivered.

Danielle, your cheeks are bright red. You do like Pastor Timmons.

You're being silly. No, my thoughts were on someone else.

Madeleine grabbed her hand and squeezed. Do tell me who?

It's none of your business. Now go and leave me alone you pest.

You're no fun. Maddie thrust her bottom lip out and frowned. Tam and Jory are hiring lumberjacks and mill workers later this week. Think of the strong-muscled men swinging axes and tossing logs into the water. Maybe you can find a perfect husband from that bunch.

Hmmm, if Tam and Jory are hiring at the mill, those men I saw today are probably here to apply for jobs. I'll have to make a point to check out the crew once the mill is working.

Stop talking like that, Madeleine. Go find something to do and leave me in peace.

Madeleine got up and headed for the door. If you find a lumberjack you want to run away with, let me know and I'll cover for you. She grinned over her shoulder and shut the door behind her as she left.

Danielle curled up on her bed and closed her eyes. The dark-eyed stranger on the beach invaded her senses again. He did look well-built and quite handsome in a roguish way. I thought he'd chase after me, but he didn't. The dinner chime sounded. Oh no. If she didn't hurry, she'd be late for supper. Danielle looked at her reflection in the vanity mirror. Why didn't he follow me? Stop it, Danielle. God forbid, you're acting irrational, just like Madeleine.

She pulled one of the combs out of her hair. Oh no, where's the other one? She double-checked the bed and around the floor, but couldn't find it. She sighed as she grabbed her brush. I promised Mama the day she gave me the combs I'd take good care of them. This day just keeps getting worse.

OUT OF THE CORNER OF his eye Jax Wellington caught movement down the beach. It could have been the sun shimmering off the water or his imagination gone wild, but for just a second, he could have sworn he'd locked gazes with the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen. He couldn't relax until he knew for certain. His short whistle alerted the crew to possible danger.

Everyone stopped unloading the boat and stared at him. What's the problem, Capt'n? Dickens said.

I fear somebody might have seen us unload the equipment from the boat. Move it up to the roost so we can get out of here as soon as I return.

What the hell you be talkin' about?

I saw a flash of color down the beach. I don't want to take the chance we've been discovered. I'll be back in a few minutes.

A swift stride along the beach lessened Jax's anxiety until he turned and headed back. Not far from where they hid their boxes, he noticed a woman's hair comb in the grass. He picked up the pearl-encrusted adornment and turned it over in his palm. A couple of strands of the gilded blaze he'd seen were tangled in the comb's teeth. Any doubt of what he'd seen evaporated.

He quirked an eyebrow and smiled as his thoughts focused on the visions running through his mind. She was real and he wanted nothing more than to find her. If he got his hands on her, he wanted to do a hell of a lot more than that. He dropped his lucky charm into his shirt pocket and whistled as he moved on.

Jax noticed where a horse's hooves had trampled the tall grass. After walking a good distance along the trodden down area, he reached a deserted road. Frustrated, he surveyed the landscape one last time, and then returned to the base of the roost's tree. He found his crew resting in the shade of the large pine.

I thought you all understood the urgency to get the equipment up to the platform.

We're only takin' a few moments, Capt'n.

He glanced around at his crew. They'd jumped at the chance of leaving Norfolk and sailing to America. He'd remembered when his father brought him to the Northwoods as a child to check out the timber. The family-owned sawmill needed a new place to harvest trees, but nothing ever came of it. The sight of the tall trees was something he'd never forgotten. The timber here was so much better than back home in England.

Grogan, let's get it done now.

All right. The former lumberjack pulled his iron hooks over his boots and attached them around his legs. He dug the hooks into the large pine, wrapped his belt around the tree, and ascended step by step.

Out of all his men, Grogan had the most skill to climb the massive tree. Jax took advantage of the man's years of logging experience to reach the trap door under the roost and unhook the latch. Once Grogan pushed the lid up and slid onto the log floor, the men readied themselves to put their equipment onto the platform.

Grogan stared over the edge. Ye ready?

Yup, send down the box, Dickens called out.

The pulley rope eased the container down to the ground. Loftus set a few pieces of their equipment inside and motioned for Grogan to pull it up. This process continued until everything rested up top again.

Jax marveled at Grogan's idea for hiding their clamming equipment in the trees on a platform. The years his friend worked as a lumberjack had given him the perspective of going up instead of digging down. The pine trees here had trunks on them like none he'd ever seen. They had to be hundreds of years old. He and his older brother had built a treehouse to use as a fort when they were children. Grogan's idea had been genius in Jax's opinion. Instead of a treehouse they had a smugglers' roost.

We're good. Come on down, Grogan.

Once their climber reached the ground, Jax gathered the men. I found hoof prints in the tall meadow grass a short distance along the beach. I have no intention of us being caught unawares. We'd best proceed with caution until I can discover who was on the beach earlier.

Jax glanced at each of them. Now let's get back to the inlet and have some moonshine.

Wait! Loftus said. That's it? That's all you're goin' to tell us?

When I know something, I'll tell you more. Let's move.

The men grumbled on their way back to the beach. They waded the short distance into Lake Nokomis and climbed over the edge of the large rowboat.

Jeffries and Trafford picked up the oars and rowed them around the edge of the lake and out of sight to anyone on the beach who could still spy on them.

Jax touched the edge of the comb in his pocket. Even though he'd been friends with the men in his crew since they were teenagers, he'd decided not to share his information with the men until he found out exactly who she was and if she realized what she'd stumbled across. They'd all insist on coming with him and, if he could find her, he didn't want them to scare her off with their ridiculous senses of humor.

They reached the semi-hidden entrance to an inlet. Everyone ducked as the boat slid under the wild berry vines that covered their access. The temptation of tasting the berries had drawn Jax to the entrance a few years back when he'd discovered the Northwoods on a scouting mission with his father.

He whistled the code as they entered. A lookout motioned them forward. Once they got to shore, Jax jumped out and pulled the boat onto the beach. Everyone disembarked. Jeffries and Trafford picked up the boat and carried it into a boathouse and secured the lock. They had a long horseback ride to the Quintessa docked at the harbor in Sault Ste. Marie on Lake Superior.

Jax pulled out a jug of moonshine. Come join me around the fire pit. I have something to discuss with you. He sat and passed the jug to Grogan. I'm not going back to the ship with you.

Why not? Jeffries said.

It's probably nothing to worry about, but until I find out who was on the beach and why, I can't rest. We have to know what we're dealing with.

Do you think it's the law? Grogan said.

He shook his head. Nah, I think someone accidentally stumbled on our operation. I'll find out what I can and then join you on the Quintessa. Take a few days off, but make sure to keep your mouths shut on why we're here. He glanced around at his crew. They'd been with him for years. If he'd not trusted them, he'd not let them return to the Quintessa without him.

Dickens spit on the ground. How long do we wait for you?

If you don't hear from me by the end of June, make your way home without me.

We've never sailed without you, Capt'n and I won't run out on you, Trafford said.

Don't worry. I can take care of myself. Put that boat to sea and follow the stars. This time of the year the seas shouldn't be too rough.

Ain't goin' to happen, Capt'n, Noonan said. If you don't show up by the end of May, we'll find you.

Jax shook his head. Listen to me. I don't know how long it'll take or who has discovered our secret. If the law is after us, someone has to return to Norfolk and let our families know we need help. If I learn something you need to know, I'll leave a note at the roost. He gazed at Grogan. Where'd you put your spare climbing hooks?

I'll get them.

While Grogan was gone, the moonshine made another round. Jax corked the jug and set it next to his boot. If someone has something to say, get it off your chest now. I'm not discussing it again.

One of us should stay. You'd do better with someone watching your back.

He shook his head at Loftus. No.

Grogan set the hooks next to Jax. You're a stubborn arse, Capt'n.

Indeed I am. Jax picked up the hooks and stood. He handed Grogan the jug. Put this away.

Noonan frowned. This isn't like you, Capt'n. Are you keeping a secret from us?

Jax shrugged. I'll see you after a while. He walked to the corral deep in thought. First, I need to find the girl.

Jax swung the saddle over his horse's back, cinched it tight, and attached his saddlebags and bedroll behind them. He led the mare out of the corral, mounted, and rode away.

Doubts plagued him. Am I on a fool's errand? She'd looked startled when our gazes caught, but didn't appear scared. I need to know who she is, and if I have a chance to woo her heart.

Chapter Two

Danielle rolled over and glanced at the clock. She rubbed her eyes and looked at the hands again. It can't be that late. If I want to make it to the church on time, I'd better hurry.

She yawned and slid out from under the covers. Her refection in the vanity mirror left her doubtful she'd be ready in time. Danielle opened the armoire and pulled out a decent frock and her pair of boots. Once she'd pulled on the gown and groomed her hair, she stared at her reflection in the mirror again. You're finally getting to work for Jacob. After disregarding Daddy's rule yesterday, he surprised me by saying yes. She brushed a few strands of hair away from her face and hurried down the stairs. On her way to the front door, she poked her head into Daddy's office.

He looked up and smiled at her. You look nice, honey.

I'm off to the church. Jacob hasn't set my hours yet, but...

He held up his hand. Thank you for letting me know you're leaving. If you don't make it home in time for supper, Tempie can fix you a plate of food and keep it warm. Have a good day.

I will. Bye.

Danielle walked along the lake trail. She focused on the squirrels frolicking in the trees this morning. The pesky animals kept chattering at her as she walked through their territory. Jacob must have been watching for her. He stood on the deck and waved as she started up the steps.

Good morning. I'm glad you're on time this morning. Come on in and I'll pour you a cup of coffee.

Thank you. I could use some brew to get started.

You didn't eat before leaving the lodge?

She shrugged. No, I was running behind schedule and didn't want to arrive late.

Please sit and I'll make you some toast. He poured her drink and set the cup on the table in front of her. No more showing up on an empty stomach. Understood?

Danielle nodded. Yes. I know I must organize my time better now that I'm working, but it'll take me a while to ease into cleaning the kitchen every night. I'm sure I'll have it under control in a week or so.

I thought all of you sisters worked together in the kitchen after meals.

We did until I messed up yesterday and scared my father by not coming home on time. He's letting me work here to learn responsibility and possibly humility. My punishment is kitchen duty until Daddy thinks I've learned my lesson.

Jacob pulled out a chair and sat across from her. I knew he was worried, but that's a rough punishment. Do you want me to speak with him about easing the workload?

She shook her head. No, I'd prefer you don't.

Relax, Danielle, I won't do anything without your permission. He got up and took her toast off the stove and set the plate on the table along with butter and berry jam.

Thank you, I appreciate you feeding me.

A smile lit up his face. As long as you don't make a practice of it, I don't mind feeding you every now and then. Mary made that jam before she left.

You miss your wife, don't you?

He nodded. I find the quiet unnerving at times.

Madeleine's innocent comments entered her mind. I don't want to insult him, but Jacob has to know my only reason for being here is to work at the church.

Danielle, is something wrong?

I'm not sure.

Have you changed your mind about working for me?

Not unless you've asked me to fill the position for personal reasons.

Jacob set his cup down and stared at her. His eyes grew wide in surprise. I've known you for many years. Do you honestly believe I'd do such a thing?

She leaned back in her chair and fidgeted with her fingers. I haven't been thinking straight lately, so I want to make sure I don't make another mistake and lead you on.

You have nothing to worry about, Danielle. This is strictly a business situation.

All right, then. Please tell me what I'll be doing to help.

By the time she'd finished her toast and a second cup of coffee, Jacob had laid out her responsibilities. Genevieve said I shouldn't have any problems doing numbers. I'm ready to start work anytime you are.

He rose from the table and pulled her chair out. You know the way.

They continued their discussion about her job as they walked to the church. Danielle tried to control the butterfly wings flapping in her stomach. Having a job excited her and she could hardly wait to start working on the books.

He unlocked the door to the church and let her enter before him. The closed-up interior smelled of polish and lantern oil. Her boots clacked against the wooden floor as she walked down the aisle between the pews.

They entered the office situated at the back of the church. She ran her fingers over the top of her desk. He'd set pencils in a cup and put a black book and stack of paper on the desktop. This is very nice. She sat on the chair and stared across the space toward his desk. I'll get to work.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to find me.

All right. Thank you.

Danielle watched him leave before opening the book. Every page was blank, but they'd not stay that way for long. Her first task was to transfer each church family's personal information to a separate page. A lot of new people were moving into the Northwoods and Jacob wanted to keep track of everyone's information, so he'd know how best to help them.

She'd been working three hours when Jacob opened the door. Danielle, how are you doing?

I'm almost finished with this job. What do you want me to do next?

You're done?

She nodded. Yes, here. Please check and make sure I've done what you wanted correctly. She handed him the book.

She watched as he thumbed through the pages. His expression didn't give away what he thought about her work. The longer he read through the pages, the tighter the knot in her stomach clenched.

He closed the book and smiled at her. You've done an excellent job.

She slumped in relief.

If you'd like, I could use help this afternoon. I'm making visitations among a group of families who arrived in the Northwoods not long ago. You'd be a great asset. If you'd like to share about your father's musical nights and whatever else you think they'd like to know about, you could make a difference in their lives.

I'd love to help.

If it's late, I promise to drop you off at the lodge when we return. We can take the buggy so you can be more comfortable than on a horse.

I don't mind riding horseback, Jacob.

No, I prefer we take the buggy.

Whatever you choose is fine with me. Let me wash up a bit and I'll be ready to go.

I'll bring the buggy around to the front of the church and wait for you there.

She brushed her hair and washed her hands. This kind of experience wasn't on his list of her original duties, but it was her Christian duty to help the newcomers.

She left the church and kept an eye out for Jacob. He drove around the corner of the building and stopped in front of her. He stepped around the buggy and helped her onto the cushioned seat before returning to the driver's side and climbing in next to her.

The first family we'll visit has two young children. They've attended church a couple of times.

Are you sure I should be going with you? Maybe I could wait until you ask them if it's okay for me to enter their homes.

They all live in tents. You'll be most welcomed by Annette Belton. She's not much older than you.

When Jacob stopped the buggy in front of a disheveled site, Danielle gasped. Their living conditions horrified her. How can these families live in such squalor with little children?

Is that humility I'm seeing?

You're working against me with my father?

I didn't realize humility was a crime, Danielle. It's something that everyone should practice.

I'm sorry, Jacob. My remark was uncalled for.

JAX LEFT THE ROAD AND headed toward construction work being done on a rundown sawmill. He rode onto the site and looked the place over. The similarity to the mill his family owned surprised him.

Two men put down their