Rescue Me

By Jacqueline M Franklin

^Stoneford, Arizona -1881^ --

 

When Alyssa Granger's father, the mayor of Stoneford, abruptly announces he has arranged for her to marry a much older man, she panics. Not only a scoundrel, but the man holds many secrets and not all good ones.

 

Tanner Blackhawk, a Navajo half-breed, orphaned young and raised in various homes, faced bigotry at every turn. However, since coming to Stoneford, fifteen years earlier, Alyssa was the one person who became a steadfast friend. Now, when Alyssa needs help, will Tanner stand by her or shun the controversy that is about to explode? Dark secrets and karma have a way of colliding, and where the debris lands remain to be seen.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jacqueline M Franklin
• Release date: Oct 6, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393926719

Jacqueline M Franklin

I am an Indie author who loves to tell a story. I've published many books on Amazon, from poetry to contemporary. However, Historical is my favorite genre. I hope my writing makes you laugh, cry, or touches your emotions in some way throughout your journey. If so, then I have proven with love and the instinct to survive against the odds that anything is possible.

Book preview

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Stoneford, Arizona

-1881-

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

CHAPTER 1—Alyssa –vs– Poppa

CHAPTER 2—Welcome to The Family

CHAPTER 3—Ultimatums & Adjusting

CHAPTER 4—Fred Confides... Somewhat

CHAPTER 5—Loud & Clear

CHAPTER 6—Bad Memories ♦ United We Stand

CHAPTER 7—T-Bone & Dr. Jedidiah Blunt

CHAPTER 8—Arletta—Not So Dead?

CHAPTER 9—Recollections & Similarities

CHAPTER 10—Sweet Reunion & Confessions

CHAPTER 11—Past and Present Merge

CHAPTER 12—Black Marble of Disqualification

CHAPTER 13—Invitation and Anxiety

CHAPTER 14—Saturday Night

CHAPTER 15—The Escape

CHAPTER 16—Mounting Evidence

CHAPTER 17—Up—Up!

CHAPTER 18—New Beginnings Marred by Tragedy

CHAPTER 19—Best Friend

CHAPTER 20—Buzzard Bait

CHAPTER 21—Life Goes On

CHAPTER 22—Paybacks Can Be Hell

CHAPTER 23—Deadly Boa

CHAPTER 24—In Cold Blood

CHAPTER 25—Compassion ♦ Reaction

CHAPTER 26—Betraying Fred Has Its Price

CHAPTER 27—Surprise

CHAPTER 28—Remnants of Years Past

CHAPTER 29—On Guard—Again

CHAPTER 30—Anxiety & Evil Plots

CHAPTER 31—Nature’s Wrath

CHAPTER 32—Self-Assurance Meets Arrogance

EPILOGUE—A Few Weeks Later

DEDICATION POEM—Rescue Me

CHAPTER 1

Stoneford, Arizona—1881

Alyssa –vs– Poppa

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Alyssa, a slender woman with long, black hair, stood in her favorite place—the kitchen of her childhood home. Her mother’s footprint was everywhere, from its oak wainscoting, white walls, oak clawfoot table, and matching chairs. Even the pale green curtains and tablecloth, with white roses in a chipped mason jar she fetched for her mother when she was ten years old, were in place on the table. Everything in the room said her mother still lived within the walls, but sadly, that wasn't the case anymore.

Now, as she stood at the stove dishing up supper, Alyssa wished she could be anywhere else. Especially when her father and stepmother planned out her future as if she weren't even in the room.

Since her mother’s death six years earlier, she and Miranda tolerated each other at best. It wasn’t so much they didn’t try to get along, but no matter how hard she was determined to get past it, Alyssa resented her presence. Had her father not remarried less than six months after her mother’s passing, it might have been different.

Poppa! I cannot believe what you just said. You can’t really mean such a thing to happen! She slapped a bowl of mashed potatoes on the table then plopped in her chair.

Mind your manners, Alyssa Kay. It’s my job to look out for your best interest, Fred said after scooping mashed potatoes onto his plate, followed by a ladle of gravy. You’re on the shelf, and you know it. If I don’t find you a husband before I kick up my heels, they’re sure as hell nobody else asking for the job. Hell's fire, you cannot take care of yourself.

♦

I’m only twenty-eight. And I’ll have you know, this is not medieval times we live in, Poppa. A woman shouldn’t be forced to marry someone she hardly knows, nor has an inkling of love for—not to mention a man with such a well, you know... his reputation.

Alyssa, mind your manners toward your father. He is only looking out for your welfare because one day, you'll awaken to tinges of gray woven into your long black hair. And not to put too fine a point on it, gravity is not a woman’s friend as we get older, so you can forget about your svelte figure. And your brown eyes will be less sparkling, so catching any man’s attention will be next to nil.

Oh, pish-posh, Miranda. Alyssa puckered her face while shoving her plate away for her. I’ve lost my appetite.

Your father has worked hard building a reputation as the Mayor of Stoneford. You would do well not to disrespect such a fact, young lady.

Fifty-five-year-old Fred, tall and thin, with salt and pepper hair, continued to cut his chicken fried steak. It’s already arranged. You will begin courting Martin Zeckler, and by summer's end, you will be married. He looked up to see his daughter’s mouth agape while pointing his fork. He has accepted the dowry, so there is no argument to be made.

♦♦♦

Huh! Alyssa was so angry her insides quivered, and she felt lightheaded. Martin Zeckler is at least twenty-five years older than me, for heaven’s sake. Do you not respect my wishes, even a smidgeon?

Fred stood. This has nothing to do with respect for your womanly ego. Martin will be here to take you for a carriage ride tomorrow after church. I expect you to be on your best behavior. Now, I have lost my appetite, as well. Come, Miranda, and let our daughter sit in here and stew over what we expect of her. Besides, we must get a move on if we are to be punctual at the Henderson’s.

After her father and Miranda left the room, Alyssa mumbled as she bolted from her chair and began clearing the table. Our daughter, my backside. It’ll be a foggy day in paradise before I’m your daughter, Miranda.

Instead of cleaning up the kitchen after supper, as was her usual chore, Alyssa was so upset and angry she plopped the bowls she held in her hand on the table. Without a backward glance, she stomped out the back door—not caring where she went, so long as it was anywhere but home.

♦♦♦

Tanner Blackhawk, a Navajo half-breed and orphaned by the time he was eleven years old, remembered little about his heritage. Although he lived in various homes growing up, he always ran away because bigotry plagued him. Nonetheless, by trial and error, he raised himself away from the white man’s dictate. By fifteen, he had become self-sufficient.

At thirty years old, Tanner's brawny physique, chiseled features, black hair worn to his collar, and penetrating eyes complimented his good looks. He was a self-made man by building up his small ranch a few miles outside of town.

And since he had never been the type of person who cared to mix and mingle with people, it had served him well to stay clear of confrontations over his heritage. Of course, on the rare occasion after settling in Stoneford, he found it necessary to stand his ground, but he learned to adapt early on.

After a long day on the ranch fixing fence rows, then coming into town at the Full House Saloon for a poke with Jewel, the most in-demand whore, he felt empty. Even talking himself into a poker game tonight held no interest, which seemed to happen more often of late, as well as restlessness plaguing him, too. He soon began wandering around town, not even sure why. However, after finding no resolution, he decided to head home, so he started toward the livery. Although a voice from behind stopped him.

Tanner, how nice to run into you, Alyssa said while clearing the corner of the boardwalk.

He smiled while turning on his heel and walked over to her. Lyssa, it’s good to see you, too. Tanner reached out with his curled finger and lifted her chin. Hey, what's this sad face all about? There is no trace of your usual beautiful smile, so tell me, what's going on with you?

She failed at her attempt to smile. This has not been a good night for me, to say the least. I guess you can say I have run away from home, if only for a while. She tried to make light with a poor attempt at laughter as tears threatened.

Come on, he said, looping her arm through his and began walking. I’ve known you since I came to town over fifteen years ago. Since then, you went to battle for me plenty of times when someone hassled me. Now it’s time that I return the favor. Fess up... what’s the matter?

Before she realized it, Alyssa unloaded her burden. I can’t imagine going for a ride with Martin Zeckler tomorrow, let alone marrying the old reprobate.

Excuse me. Sit down and talk to me. Since it’s almost sunset and hotter than blazes on a Saturday night, few people are milling about, so let’s sit on the bench outside the livery.

Once seated under a lamplight, Alyssa shook her head. This is most improper of me to be alone with a man. Her stress brought forth a half-hearted chuckle. Scandalous as per propriety's sake, I should think. Worse, Father has informed me that I am an on-the-shelf woman. And Miranda has me pegged as an aging no-nothing before her very eyes. Alyssa let out a puff of air. Pish-posh—this is not fair.

Without thinking, Tanner took her hand in his. I don’t want to hear another word of such talk. I’m sure when your father thinks about the absurdity of his idea, he’ll certainly change his mind.

Alyssa looked at their entwined hands. You didn’t hear or see his stubborn determination. He has already promised me and a dowry, along with Miranda jumping on the bandwagon. She usually doesn’t say anything when father lays the law down, but she’s just as determined. She looked up at Tanner. I better get back home. I have been wandering around for a couple of hours. If I’m not home before Poppa and Miranda return, I’ll be in for another round of how I need to be tamed.

Tanner looked around, saw no one milling about, put his arm around her, and pulled her closer to him. Look, we’ve been friends for years, Lyssa. If things get unbearable, I want you to come here to the livery, saddle up a horse, then ride out to my place. I’ll leave word with Horace to bill me.

She sighed. Oh, thank you, Tanner.

Come on, now, I'm going to walk you home since you are so upset.

Within a few minutes, they approached the back door to loud voices. Tanner pulled on Alyssa’s arm and stood off to the side and out of sight.

Martin, I told you I’d give you fifty-thousand dollars the day you marry my daughter.

Fred, if I’m going to marry Alyssa, you better have papers written up. I want full controlling interest in this house and your other properties the day you kick up your heels.

Alyssa gasped and buried her head into Tanner’s chest. Oh, mercy me, I had no idea Poppa thought me such a burden. To pay the man such a price to get rid of me... is... ohhh.

And another thing, Fred, I want the marriage to take place in two weeks, ordered fifty-five-year-old Martin. Not only had he become thick around the middle, but his graying hair added to his rough exterior. I see no need to drag things out.

CHAPTER 2

Welcome to The Family

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

In one rapid swoop, Tanner picked Alyssa up in his arms and hurried away from the house. When he carried her far enough away, he set her down but didn’t let go of her hand. Look, I know this sounds crazy as a rabid skunk, but there is no way you can marry such a dirty old man as Martin Zeckler. I know too many of his secrets... none of which I will tell you about in this lifetime.

Alyssa began to sob. What will I do? I feel so insignificant. And I—

Tanner didn’t have to think twice about his next move since unusual circumstances called for extreme measures. If it meant the one person who had always treated him as an equal and not a half-breed needed him—he would do whatever was needed. Do you trust me, Lyssa?

She snuffled. Of course, you are the one person I could never doubt, Tanner.

He gave her his handkerchief. Then I’m taking you to Reverend Percy right now—we’re getting married tonight.

Alyssa gasped while cuffing him on the shoulder, Crimany, Tanner! This is no time to joke around, for heaven’s sake. My father has arranged to sell me down the river. I must think of a plan to get out of this mess.

He took her by the shoulders and looked her in the eye, even though it was getting darker. I’m not joking, Lyssa. We’ll get married tonight, and then your father can’t force you to marry Martin, nor harp at you at his whim.

But—

No buts about it. We’ll get married, then come back here to tell your folks. All you need to do is pack enough clothes for the night. Tomorrow, we’ll come back to get the rest of your other things.

He held up his palm. I promise, I will ask nothing of you in the... you know, of the sexual nature. Although it would do well to convince the Reverend and your parents, it’s more. If you know what I mean?

I don't know. Do you think it could work? Oh, I can't, it isn’t fair to you. You’d be married to a woman for the wrong reasons.

Look, Lyssa, he said, urging her farther away from the light of the house, I don’t have any illusions about a woman wanting to marry me. He scowled. Hell, nobody will take a half-breed as serious, and most certainly not a woman who would want me to bed her and, well, have my kids. You might say we’d be doing each other a favor.

She took a deep breath. Oh, I'm not so sure this is a good—

Lyssa, we'll set our minds to do this. I can't stand by and watch you marry that old scoundrel as if you're up for grabs to the highest bidder.

Well, I guess you could be right. I mean, with both of us going into this with no illusions, maybe it could work.

He took her hand and headed for the parsonage. Come on, we have a wedding to attend. Minutes later, Tanner stood pounding on the door. Reverend Percy! Reverend Percy!

Just a gull-darn minute, the reverend said, scratching his head as he answered the door. Well, Tanner, the good Lord didn’t bless you with patience.

Tanner pulled Alyssa against him, revealing her in the light of the doorway. Reverend, we want to see you, sir. We, well, I mean, Lyssa, and I want to get married tonight.

Sid, who is it? Clare Percy asked.

Alyssa, is that you? the reverend asked, more rhetorical than a question while squinting as he peered over the top of his spectacles.

She cleared her throat. Yes, Reverend.

Well, come on inside, for pity-sake, Clare insisted. You children look like lost orphans.

Once seated in the sitting room, the reverend asked in all seriousness. Okay, suppose you tell me the truth of it all? I’m not buying this concoction you’re giving me.

It became too much for Alyssa. She found herself confessing to what her father had planned, as well as the conversation she and Tanner overheard between the two men.

Clare scowled. Sid, don’t you think the Lord could make an exception and help these children? I mean, to sell your own daughter is just beyond sinful.

The reverend sat in deep contemplation before saying anything. Clare, I want you to take Alyssa into the kitchen while Tanner and I have a few words.

Tanner gave Alyssa a nod with a reassuring squeeze of her hand, then the women left the room.

After sitting straight in his chair, Tanner said. Look, Reverend Percy, I know this is not an ideal situation. But worse, what Fred Granger wants to do to Lyssa is downright wrong. She and I will be good for each other. He nodded. Look, I'm no fool because it is a fact that a couple getting married is a serious proposition. But wouldn’t you rather take a chance on us, so she isn't forced to marry the likes of Martin Zeckler?

The reverend listened in earnest with one arm crossed over his chest while rubbing his thumb and forefinger on his chin while studying the man before him.

Tanner lowered his voice. I am sure you know what I mean. There is no equating any upstanding or respectability for the likes of Zeckler.

The reverend nodded. I will admit to hearing about certain immoral abuses and just inside the law activities.

What’s in this marriage for you, boy?

Tanner sat up and propped his elbows on his knees, then dangled his hands between his legs while staring at the floor. Look, I won’t lie. I'm sure you're wondering—do I love Alyssa? Yes, I do. Albeit not like a man should when he asks a woman to marry and spend the rest of her life with him. And I’m not stupid enough to think there won’t be gossip around town, what with me a half-breed and her a white woman.

He met the preacher eye-to-eye. Reverend, Alyssa has been my one devoted friend the fifteen years. She has taken my part when others could—would not abide by the likes of me. So, if you ask if I love her in every way that counts? Yes, I reckon I do. I can guarantee that I will never abuse her like Martin Zeckler would. I will never disgrace her either. Nor will I force her into my bed—not until she is ready. I'll be a good provider. Moreover, if I may be so bold, I expect in time we'll grow to love each other as a husband and wife should.

After absorbing Tanner’s words, the reverend stood. Well, boy, I expect I’ve heard all I need to, so come on, I have a wedding ceremony to perform.

The men started for the door, but the reverend stopped, turned to speak in a stern voice. I’m entrusting you to keep her from harm at Martin’s hands. He will not like this one little bit. Not to mention, Fred Granger won’t be happy about you or anyone stepping on his authority either.

Reverend, you leave those two rapscallions to me.

♦♦♦

Where in the devil do you think she took off to this time of the night? Fred growled to his wife as they sat in the kitchen drinking coffee after returning home to find a stack of dirty dishes instead of their daughter.

She was, without a doubt, upset. I just don’t understand young people these days, the way they disrespect their elders, Miranda said in a snippy tone.

My daughter can’t get married any too soon. Hell's fire, but she is the talk of the town at her age since she isn't married, let alone no children either.

When the door to the kitchen opened, heads jerked toward the people entering. Father... Miranda, Alyssa said in an anxious voice with fisted hands at her side.

Reaching over to give his wife’s hand a reassuring grip, Tanner walked in behind her.

Tanner Blackhawk! What in hell's half-acre are you doing here at this hour of the night?

Alyssa stood tall. "Father, you may call off any arrangement you have with Martin Zeckler. I will not marry him."

Fred looked indignant. I most certainly will not! And yes, you will marry him, so get off your high horse, Alyssa.

No, you will get off your high horse, Mr. Granger. And yes, you will call off the marriage as well. I will not abide by my wife taking up with another man, Tanner said while wrapping his arm around Alyssa to pull her closer.

Oh, mercy me, Miranda gasped as she plopped back down in her seat.

MARRIED! Fred jerked out of his chair and paced while smoothing his hand over the top of his head. You've gone too far, young lady. I've always been a man of my word. Now, you've besmirched my good name!

Go on, honey, said Tanner, and pack a few things as we discussed. Meanwhile, your parents and I will most definitely come to an understanding.

Alyssa started for her room.

Stop! Fred ordered. Stop right where you are, Alyssa Kay Granger.

She stopped and turned to face them all with fisted hands at her side. Poppa, you have humiliated me beyond endurance. To think I would marry such a vile man as Martin Zeckler, just to save face because you and Miranda believe me to be an old maid and on the shelf is immoral. Not to mention a very wrong misconception. She held her chin in the air. "I am Tanner’s wife now, and I plan on remaining Mrs. Blackhawk, so you deal with the mistake that you made by planning my life for me." Alyssa left the room while holding her head high.

Fred’s face turned red with anger as he seethed. Half-breed, son-of-a-bitch, only a heathen would take advantage of an innocent such as my daughter.

In three steps, Tanner held Fred Granger against the wall in a neck-lock. Shame on you, Mayor, for selling your daughter as if she were chattel to be bartered. You may call me anything you want to, but you will not disrespect my wife. Have you no sense of decency toward your own daughter to treat and speak to her the way you do? With a sudden shove, he let go of the Mayor and stepped back. Sanctimonious people like you think only of yourselves. Alyssa is worth more than all the gold in the world. His face contorted while pointing. You're not worth a plug nickel.

Alyssa came back with her portmanteau. I’m ready to go, Tanner.

He held his hand out to her with a smile and