Lorraine

By Elaine Angelus Kehler

Lorraine's husband left her destitute. She had one hope, a hotel, left to her by a father she never knew. Traveling from Philadelphia to Wyoming, she had no idea what to expect. She certainly didn't expect to be nearly run down by a handsome rancher, Matt Rollins. When he lifted her to her feet, his intense blue eyes stirred something in her she never felt before. 

Matt Rollins never met anyone like Lorraine Tanner. He immediately could tell she was from back east with her proper English and icy manners. He found himself wondering what it would take to thaw this pretty lady. When he heard she planned to re-open the Three Candles Hotel his musings turned to concern. He knew Tom Carlson wanted the hotel. No one knew how far he would go to get it.

Tom Carlson was shocked to hear the new owner turned down his offer and decided to open the hotel. He is obsessed with owning the property. Whether by seduction, blackmail or more drastic measures, nothing will stop him from getting what he wants, not even Matt Rollins. He bested the cattleman five years ago and he was sure he could do it again.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Elaine Angelus Kehler
• Release date: Mar 29, 2019
• ISBN: 9781386936343

Book preview

PROLOGUE

Lorraine Tanner, wearing her nightdress and robe, sat curled up in the large chair by the fireplace, her feet tucked under her. A light quilt covered her from her waist to her toes. She was alone. It was well after midnight and her husband had yet to come home. It was not an unusual occurrence. Lawrence Tanner was by no means the perfect husband or father.

God only knew with whom or where he spent his time. His late nights and preference for other women, drinking and gaming no longer caused her concern. Truth be told, she was glad he was not at home as it spared her his abuses.

That was where Rachael found her on that fateful morning, sitting in the chair in front of the fireplace.

I am awake, Lorraine said when Rachael came near her.

I did not mean to disturb you, Rachael told her. Did you sleep down here all night?

I had another headache, she explained.

They are getting worse. I am worried about you, Rachael admitted.

Lorraine was also worried. Her mother suffered debilitating headaches for months before she died. It made Lorraine wonder if she did not suffer from whatever disease took her mother away so early. She did not fear death. At times during the first year of her marriage, she would have welcomed leaving this world. At that time, she did not have Emily.

He didn’t come home again, Rachael huffed.

I don’t think so, Lorraine answered weakly. It doesn’t matter.

Rachael Brace came to work for Lorraine and her mother three years before Lorraine married. Now they were more friends than employer and employee. She was also the only staff left. She served as both cook and housekeeper. The rest of the staff could no longer tolerate Mr. Tanner’s outbursts. One by one, they all left and sought other positions.

Rachael would not abandon Lorraine. It pained her to see her friend in such an intolerable situation. She could do no more other than giving her support and a much-needed shoulder.

Lorraine went upstairs to her room. She dressed in a plain white blouse and navy-blue skirt while Rachael prepared breakfast for them. Cautiously, she opened the door to her husband’s room just enough to look inside. It came as no surprise the bed still made from the day before. She shut the door and went to Emily. 

The little girl was already awake and playing with her doll. Lorraine dressed her, and they both went downstairs together. They reached the bottom just as Rachael answered a knock at the door. Lorraine froze at the bottom of the steps. Lawrence would never knock when he came home. They never had guests, never entertained. A cold chill ran down her spine.

Go play in the parlor, she told her little girl and Emily skipped happily away.

Is Mrs. Tanner at home? the Constable in the doorway asked politely. Before Rachael could answer, Lorraine was beside her.

I am Mrs. Tanner, Lorraine told him.

Mrs. Tanner, he began. I am sorry to tell you. Your husband was found early this morning.

Is he... she could not say the word.

I am afraid he is dead.

Lorraine felt dizzy. Rachael put her arm around her.

You better sit down, she said, taking her to the chair in the foyer. The man followed closely behind.

I’m sorry, the Constable repeated. I must tell you, it is believed Mr. Tanner’s death was not natural.

An accident? Rachael asked.

No Miss. He was struck, the man said obviously not wanting to go into too much detail.

Murdered, Lorraine said softly.

Yes, he replied. We will need to ask you some questions.

Can it wait until later? Rachael asked.

The sooner the better, he said. If you would, please come by the station this afternoon?

Yes, this afternoon, Rachael said. I think Mrs. Tanner needs to be alone now.

Yes, of course, he said as Rachael showed him out.

As soon as the door closed, she immediately went to Lorraine.

Are you all right? she asked.

Lorraine stood and hugged Rachael tight. Rachael put her arms around her and waited for the tears to start. Only they did not.

Thank God, Lorraine whispered.

THREE MONTHS PASSED since her husband’s funeral and the police were still unable to find any clues as to Lawrence’s murderer. The official record listed his death as a robbery gone wrong. Both Lorraine and Rachael thought this was strange, considering his money, watch and rings were still on him. The authorities looked no further for answers and they closed the case. Even their family attorney, Edward Winthrop was surprised at the assumption.

Today she spent the better part of the morning at Mr. Winthrop’s law office going over what was left of the estate. Mr. Edward Winthrop attended to the family’s legal affairs as long as Lorraine could remember. He looked exactly as she remembered him from their first meeting over three years ago. Perhaps his hair grayed a little more since that time. His physique had not changed. His girth overshadowed his six-foot-tall height giving him a prosperous appearance. Lorraine smiled as she watched him twirl his handlebar mustache.

I am sorry I didn’t have better news, Mr. Winthrop told her, his chair creaking under his weight.

I suppose I should not be surprised, Lorraine said from her own seat in front of Winthrop’s desk.

I will take care of the details, he continued. Try not to worry. I am certain everything will work itself out. If there is anything I can do, anything at all.

Asking her not to worry was akin to asking the wind not to blow. Lorraine held her tears back and held her head up.

Thank you for all your kindness, she whispered.

IT WAS LATE AFTERNOON when she returned. As she entered her house, she took the pin out of her hat and placed both the hat and pin on the table near the door. She walked with slow and steady steps to the kitchen, where she knew she would find Rachael.

Rachael, she said as she took a seat at the large table.

Oh good, you are home. We will need to go to the market soon... Rachael’s voice trailed off when she saw the look on Lorraine’s face. What is it?

Rachael. There is nothing left. It’s all gone, Lorraine began. He lost it all, the house, my inheritance—all of it.

Dear God, Rachael said and took the seat next to Lorraine. She took Lorraine’s hand and asked, There is nothing left?

Nothing here in Philadelphia, she told Rachael and shook her head.

What do you mean nothing here? the woman asked.

The only thing left is some property, Lorraine said.

Property is good, but I thought you said the house... Rachael did not understand.

The property was left to me by my father. Rachael. A hotel, Lorraine told her.

A hotel? That is good news, a place to live and income as well. Is it the empty one on Columbia?

It is in a place called Riverbend. In Wyoming, Lorraine explained. I didn’t know it existed. I never knew my father. He died when I was a baby. Mother never spoke of him. Rachael, what are we going to do?

Rachael stood and said in a steady strong voice, The only thing we can do. We go to Wyoming.

CHAPTER ONE

Lorraine Tanner took hold of Emily’s hand and stepped off the morning train. Cheyenne, Wyoming was nothing like Philadelphia. Pennsylvania was green with lush fields of crops and tall shady trees. This place was, well... brown. That was the only way to describe it. There were brown wood buildings, brown dirt road and brown wood wagons led by big brown horses. Lorraine took a deep breath and hoped Riverbend at least had a tree or two.

Mama, I’m hungry, young Emily complained and tugged on her mother’s skirt.

We will get you some food, Lorraine told her little girl as she helped Rachael their luggage.

There is a restaurant of sorts over there, Rachael said and pointed in the direction of the eatery. I’ll take Emily and see what they have.

Yes, that would be good. I have to meet Mr. Hawkes at the livery, Lorraine told them and headed toward the building across the road. Halfway across, Lorraine turned and walking backward called to Rachael, I will meet you later.

Look out! Rachael yelled.

Lorraine spun around just in time to see the horse and buckboard nearly upon her. The driver pulled hard on the reins stopping directly in front of her. The large roan mare reared up on its hind legs inches away from Lorraine. Without thinking, she took step backward out of the way of the horse’s hooves.

Unfortunately, the heel of her shoe caught the hem of her skirt, pulling her off balance. Thus, with very little grace, Lorraine fell hard on her backside with a teeth-jarring thud. A cloud of dust rose up around her. Her hat came loose from its pin and slipped forward almost covering her eyes.

In an instant, the driver was out of the wagon and in front of her. In one swift motion, he slid his hands under her arms and quickly lifted her until she was standing. He lifted her so quickly that she gasped at the ease with which he accomplished the task.

Lorraine pushed her hat up off her eyes. He did not release her and she watched his gaze slowly travel upward from the hem of her green skirt, over her hips and waist. Her green bolero jacket was open, exposing the beige silk blouse beneath. He paused briefly on her bosom before looking at her face. Feeling suddenly parched, she swallowed and unconsciously ran her tongue across her lips. She felt her color rise as he looked into her eyes.

His gaze was so intense that she lowered her lashes to break the contact. His firm hands slid down to her small waist, slowly, caressingly.

Are you all right? another man running out of the livery asked. Matt, what happened?

The lady walked out in front of my wagon, Matt told him, still holding her.

Sir, I'm fine now. If you would please release me, Lorraine demanded, with as much dignity as she could muster.

What was wrong with her? Why was she standing in the middle of the road allowing this man to paw at her as if she were a horse he considered for his stock? He released her and pushed his hat higher on his head.

I’m all right. She brushed the dust from the back of her skirt and tried to regain her composure. My apologies sir, I should watch where I was going, she said, in a well-practiced cool voice.

You must be Mrs. Tanner. We’ve been expecting you, the man from the livery said. I’m Will Hawkes. I got your telegram. Got a rig all ready for you, he told her then turned to the driver. Matt, this is Mrs. Lorraine Tanner. She's the new owner of the Three Candles Hotel. I'm taking her and her family out there today, Hawkes explained.

Lorraine looked at Mr. Hawkes. He stood no more than five and a half feet tall. Deep lines creased his brow and cheeks. His denim pants were faded and well worn. A few pieces of straw clung to the shoulders and cuffs of his flannel shirt. She was surprised he knew so much about her. There was no mention of the hotel in her telegram.

Ma'am, the tall stranger touched the brim of his hat as he introduced himself, Matt Rollins. My place, the Circle R is just a few miles from Riverbend. I guess that'll sort of be making us neighbors.

Lorraine took a quick measure of the man, much as he had her. He towered over Hawkes by at least a foot. His broad shoulders tapered down to narrow hips. On his head was a tan flat-crowned hat with a wide brim and brown band. The tan lambskin jacket he wore was open, revealing a white shirt with a blue bandana tied loosely around his neck. His tight Levies accentuated his long, lean muscular legs. A gun belt hung low on his hips, the holster tied to his right thigh. Under the brim of his hat, she could see a few curls of black hair.

His face was strong with a squared jaw and sported a slight growth of beard. His mouth had a sensual quality. His eyes were striking against his dark hair and tanned skin. They were blue—bold blue eyes. They were hungry blue eyes that were looking at her as if she were a tasty meal. Suddenly, her heart seemed to be beating much too fast.

I guess that does make us neighbors, Mr. Rollins. If you will excuse me, she replied with a careful calm, then turned to the older man and nodded. Mr. Hawkes, my family and I would like to leave as soon as possible. Our trunks are at the station.

We can leave when you’re ready, Hawkes told her. I’ll get your things and be ready in a jiffy.

We will be at the restaurant. You can meet us there, Lorraine told him. She then she turned back to Matt still standing there looking at her. Good day, Mr. Rollins.

She did not mean to speak so abruptly. Without another word, she turned and walked across the street. When she reached the other side, she glanced back. Both men still stood where she left them. Both were still watching her. It was unnerving.

She and Mr. Tanner planning to open the hotel, Will? Matt asked his friend.

Far as I know there ain’t no Mr. Tanner. She's a widow woman. Just her, a kid and another gal, the older man told him.

Matt didn't hear anything past the fact she a widow. They both watched Lorraine a few seconds longer.

Rachael and Emily witnessed the whole scene. By the time Lorraine reached them, Rachael managed to get her urge to laugh under control.

Who was that? Rachael asked with a forced straight face.

No one important, Lorraine replied and wondered how much they saw of the debacle. Then she saw the laughter in Rachael's eyes. Don't you dare laugh, Rachael, Lorraine warned. I have never been so embarrassed. Then she smiled and took Rachael’s arm. Come on, we can get some breakfast before we leave.

You better let me go first, so you don't get run over, Rachael taunted again, suppressing another laugh.

A short time later, they sat at a table in the dining room. Lorraine was happy to put the incident in the street behind her.

It might be a good idea to pick up a few things we may need while we're here, Rachael said as they finished their meal. After all, we're not sure what we will, or won't, find when we get there... Rachael's voice trailed off. She was staring over Lorraine’s head.

What's the matter, Rachael?

Oh! Dear me, do you remember that man you ran into? You know the handsome one you said was no one important?

I never said he was handsome, Lorraine reminded her.

You didn't have to.

Yes, well, what about him?

It seems he's on his way over to our table.

Lorraine paled. She was just about to say something when she heard his deep, soft voice.

Excuse me, Ma'am, he said as he reached her table. I didn't get a chance to apologize to you before. I didn't want you leaving without my saying I'm sorry.

Thank you, Lorraine said.

Emily interrupted, Mama that man made you fall down! She pointed her chubby finger at Matt.

Well, yes, I guess I did, he said as he chucked her lightly under the chin, making Emily giggle. But maybe she'll forgive me. He turned to Lorraine, smiling as he looked into her eyes.

Of course, Mr. Rollins, she replied. Suddenly, Lorraine felt as if it was too warm in the dining room. Mr. Rollins, I would like to introduce you to my daughter, Emily.

How do you do, Emily said, in a formal tone, as she stood and curtsied. I do good, Mama?

That was perfect, darling, she complimented Emily and then turned back to Matt. This is my friend, Miss Rachael Brace.

Howdy, Miss Brace, he said, taking his hat off.

Please, call me Rachael, Rachael smiled up at the handsome man. Won't you join us, Mr. Rollins?

Matt, he said as he dragged an empty chair from another table and sat between them. My friends call me, Matt. After ordering some coffee, he continued, I understand you're going to reopen the hotel. I stayed there a few times myself a few years back. It’s a nice place. She’ll need some fixing to get her back in shape. It could be a real nice place again.

After Emily finished eating, she went to play with another little girl. Lorraine watched her scamper off while Rachael asked Matt's opinion about what supplies they might need. To the relief of the pair, he informed them there was a good general store in town.

If you need a good carpenter, you should use George Killen, Matt was talking to Rachael while trying not to stare at Lorraine. He's a good man and honest. I've known him for a long time. He’ll do a good job for you.

Thank you, Matt. It's kind of you to help us like this, Rachael said. Isn't it, Lorraine?

Lorraine didn't say much up to now. Outwardly, she was calm and reserved, though unnerved by their initial meeting. She could not ignore Rachael’s question.

Yes, thank you for your help, she said.

Just trying to be a good neighbor, ma'am, He said smiling.

Lorraine was not amused and wished the floor would open up and swallow her whole.

It was then that the wagon came up in front of the window, loaded with their belongings.

I think it’s time to go, Lorraine, Rachael said. If you will excuse me, I'll get Emily. She stood up and turned to Matt. Matt, it was a pleasure meeting you. I do hope we will see you again.

I'm sure you will, he answered as he got up from his chair, his gaze still on Lorraine. Perhaps, once you all are settled, you'd like to come out and see the ranch, Matt added his winning smile to the invitation.

Perhaps, she replied noncommittally. I must go now, Rachael and Emily already waiting.

By the time Lorraine reached them, Rachael already introduced herself and Emily to Hawkes. The two sat in the back of the wagon while Hawkes helped Lorraine into the seat beside him.

You going to be in town a while, Matt? the older man asked Matt before setting off.

Just a day or two, I’m picking up some supplies come in on the train. Got to be heading back, roundup is in a couple of weeks, he answered. Ladies, it's been a real pleasure.

Touching the brim of his hat he left them and off toward the buckboard.

RACHAEL OBSERVED THE pair closely while they were in the restaurant. She noticed how intently they watched each other whenever they thought the other wasn't looking. A small smile came to her. She considered herself a good judge of character. The way Matt handled himself made an impression. She believed he was a good man, even if he was a little rough looking on the outside. Rachael hoped Lorraine saw it as well. There was definitely a current between the pair, even if they didn't realize it yet.

Matt said they would see more of him. Rachael was convinced they would. At least she hoped they would. Lorraine deserved someone like him, a strong man with a gentle side as well. It was nice to see how kind he was with Emily. Lord knows the little girl could use a good male figure in her life. 

IN THE ALLEY ACROSS from the restaurant, where he was sure he wasn’t noticed, Skinner Nolan watched. From the Boss’ description, he knew who she was the moment she stepped off the train. She sure is a looker. The other one's not bad either. Skinner was getting hard just thinking what he'd like to do with them if the boss lets him, but then he never did anything without the boss's say-so. He moved further into the shadows when she walked alone toward the livery. He almost called out to her when he saw the buckboard coming toward her.

He nearly pissed himself laughing when she fell on her ass in the street. It wasn’t funny when he saw her come out of the eatery with Matt Rollins. Damn! He thought to himself. The boss ain’t going to like Rollins sniffing around the woman. He ran his hand through his greasy unkempt hair. Nope, he’s not going to like this one bit. When he was sure no one saw him, he rode out fast toward Riverbend.

IT HAS BEEN A LONG time since any one particular woman affected him as much as this one. Perhaps, too damn long. Watching her shapely form sway as she walked away from him, Matt felt the familiar stirrings of desire grip him. It was definitely too long. He knew she was a properly brought up woman with her cool manners and speech. Still, Matt thought he saw something else in her eyes.

With the way she looked at him, it would be easy to forget they just met. She also didn't push him away right off when he held her. He could still feel her firm, warm body in his palms. It pleased him the way she blushed whenever he looked at her. He tried to banish her from his thoughts. He already knew it would be a losing battle.

At the train station, as he loaded the buckboard with supplies, he thought of her reaction to his invitation. Never did