Though the Storm Rages

By Rebekah Hawker Lusk

Romance and adventure in the Rocky Mountains! 

Ella Ashford has had more than her fair share of life's storms in 1880's Colorado. Overshadowed by her past, she is longing for even the hint of a bright future. Her trust in God falters as her surprising and sometimes hilarious struggles sincerely test her faith. How will this young woma

• Language: English
• Publisher: Trilogy Christian Publishing
• Release date: Dec 13, 2021
• ISBN: 9781637695050

Book preview

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Though the Storm Rages

by Rebekah Hawker Lusk

Though the Storm Rages

Trilogy Christian Publishers A Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Trinity Broadcasting Network

2442 Michelle Drive Tustin, CA 92780

Copyright © 2021 by Rebekah Hawker Lusk

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without written permission from the author. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

Rights Department, 2442 Michelle Drive, Tustin, CA 92780.

Trilogy Christian Publishing/TBN and colophon are trademarks of Trinity Broadcasting Network.

Cover design by Grant Swank

Back cover photo by Wendy Miller

For information about special discounts for bulk purchases, please contact Trilogy Christian Publishing.

Trilogy Disclaimer: The views and content expressed in this book are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views and doctrine of Trilogy Christian Publishing or the Trinity Broadcasting Network.

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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is available.

ISBN: 978-1-63769-504-3

E-ISBN: 978-1-63769-505-0

Dedication

For my Lord and Savior, to whom I owe all.

My husband, Steven, without whose support my dreams wouldn’t have been realized.

My daughter, Jenna, who requested the line I love rainbows to be in my book when she was seven and who allows me to bounce ideas off of her.

My son, Jayden, whose sense of humor ended up weaved into this story.

My parents, John and Pati, who have always believed in me.

And for Mr. Esch, my ninth-grade English teacher, who knew I was an author before I did.

A Fateful Invitation

Ella Ashford scooped cool water from the rose-colored basin and splashed her cheeks. She touched soft linen to the beads of water hanging precariously to the soft curve in her lips and studied her reflection in an elegant mirror lined with lacy silver. She had her mother’s curling golden hair and her father’s merry sapphire eyes. Her nose, small and graceful, was undoubtedly her mother’s, but whose smile had she gotten? Which of their smiles had brightened their entire countenance and crinkled the edges of their mouth? A small, white scar ran across her left cheek and became more pronounced when she smiled—as though her left eye was having a decidedly better time than her right. She closed her eyes, her smile fading, and reached for those last remaining memories—her father’s teasing blue eyes, the sound of his laughter, his strong arms lifting her into the air—but his smile? It was a vague upturn of his mouth, as though, in her youth, she had haphazardly drawn it on her slate in order to prove happiness had defined her childhood. Though Ella’s brow furrowed in concentration, his grin refused to emerge—it was lost to her forever. Her mother’s, too, had seemingly vanished from her memory, along with the sound of her voice and the comfort of her embrace. What little she clung to was being evermore eroded by the forceful procession of time. Startled by a noise at the door, she swiped at droplets, salty and warm, that had crept undetected from the corners of her eyes.

Betsy Miller’s presence was not unwelcomed, but Ella turned from her, nonetheless.

Miss Ella! the buxom maid gasped in her thick English accent. You’ve not even begun to dress!

Ella’s eyes darted to the unparalleled cream and scarlet evening dress hanging from the wardrobe door. Its existence twisted exhilaration and dread into a hopeless knot in her stomach.

You’ve finally an invitation from those ‘oity-toity Lundstroms,’ and you’re going to be there on time if I’ve anything to do with it! There was playfulness in Betsy’s tone, but she cinched Ella’s corset up with such force. Ella wondered if her determined motions just might leave her breathless at the end of the dance.

Ella hadn’t said a word, and Betsy hadn’t seemed to notice as she whisked the young woman into the soft, satin dress and adorned her with matching earrings and necklace.

Betsy pointed to the elegant burgundy chair poised in front of a set of silver-lined mirrors. Sit! she commanded with tremendous urgency, as though arriving late to the Lundstrom Summer Ball was the worst of all possible social offenses. While she swept Ella’s curls into a becoming mass, Ella drew breath to speak. What is it, love? Betsy interrupted as though suddenly aware of Ella’s affliction. The women’s eyes met in the mirror.

When I first came here, did I tell you—did I explain about my parents?

You spoke of them often, the maid answered, her words enveloped in compassion. Though she continued to place pins in Ella’s hair, she was much gentler about it, and there was a softness in her green eyes.

I mean—did I describe what they looked like? Did I tell you whose smile I have? As the words left her lips, Ella colored. What a bizarre thing to ask!

Betsy contemplated the query for a reasonable amount of time before replying, I don’t recall that you did, love, but my memory isn’t what it used to be. Why?

Though she found the answer dissatisfying, Ella choked out the words, It isn’t of any importance. Never mind my questions. But it was important—extremely important. No one here could answer.

Betsy raised her eyebrows. It must be—

Oh, Betsy, I love it! Ella interrupted, patting her tresses in the mirror’s reflection. I should like to put the orchids planted near the house here and here if it isn’t too much trouble.

Betsy nodded, and Ella had two minutes to herself. She touched the ruby necklace—a present from Jack—and pushed the melancholy thoughts from her mind. She didn’t want them to spoil her evening. She perceived something wonderful might happen tonight though she didn’t expose her hopes for fear. If spoken, they would wither and die, like cut flowers in the searing sun. But hope swelled within her just the same.

Betsy must have uprooted the entire bed of orchids because, when she returned, Ella’s hair was soon overflowing with them. A few dabs of perfume signified Ella was ready. She descended the stairs to join Jack, Rose, and Asher Morgan.

Ella! Rose exclaimed. For a brief moment, her velvet brown eyes misted, but she smiled and said, You are beautiful! Rose Morgan was a striking beauty. Her masses of glossy chestnut hair shone in the candlelight, and a splash of tiny freckles belied her forty years.

Looks like the last fortnight of frivolous spending has paid off, Jack offered gruffly, which meant more to Ella than if he had complimented her beauty. He sniffed, passing his hand quickly over his large nose. His sharp blue eyes softened when his wife slipped her thin arm around his muscular one.

It was all Betsy, I can assure you, Ella laughed, motioning to the older woman.

It was none of my doing, sir, Betsy insisted.

Asher interjected, Well, I’m mighty glad to be escorting one of the prettiest girls in town to the Lundstrom Summer Ball. With a glance at the mahogany grandfather clock near the door, he added, And if we don’t leave now, we’ll be late. Good night, all.

Ella exchanged a knowing look with Rose as she left—confirmation she, too, anticipated an eventful evening. Asher helped Ella into the carriage and nodded to Chet, who set it in motion with a quick flick of his muscular wrist.

As they rode, Ella studied Asher’s features. He resembled his mother—wavy chestnut hair, charming smile, kind eyes—though his were green, and Rose’s were brown. As a matter of fact, Jack would have been almost entirely left out of Asher’s genetic makeup if it hadn’t been for his strong nose and olive complexion. Ella envied Asher—a little. He could know for certain whose smile he had if he had his father’s wisdom or his mother’s sense of humor.

There is an excitement in your cheerfulness that makes me think you know something, Asher observed with a brotherly nudge.

Ella answered with a decided shake of her head, I’m not saying. The disappointment would be too great if nothing came of it.

How might I persuade you to tell me what you think may happen tonight?

You cannot, she said this with a firm nod as though the matter were settled.

But Asher found this to be barely an inconvenience. Does it have anything to do with a man?

Ella’s blush gave her away, and she twisted in the seat so he couldn’t see her face.

It does! he exclaimed, with a triumphant lift of his chin. Now to discover who… He paused. Ella, is it Nelson?

His question was met with silence.

Toby?

No response.

Levi?

Asher, please stop, Ella begged, turning toward him.

Aha! Asher settled back as though his interrogation had afforded him the answer he’d wanted. I won’t tell a soul.

Of course you won’t, Ella laughed. You know nothing.

Oh, I know something.

You think you know something, but you don’t. And the conversation was left there because Chet slowed the horses to a stop in front of the Lundstrom’s impressive estate.

When they entered the large ballroom, Ella eagerly waited for Nelson Lundstrom just inside the door. He had recently returned from a two-month cattle drive with his father, and she was certain he would be at her side the moment he saw her. She felt a rush of excitement when she spotted him across the way. He had grown into a fine-looking young man. His suit made him appear older and matched his ebony hair. He was altogether dashing and tanned from his trip to Texas. His hazel eyes met her blue ones, and he smiled. Ella felt sure her heart skipped a beat. But he made no move toward her. A slight frown flickered for a moment. She forced it into a smile and spoke with the cluster of young ladies that had assembled around Asher. Had she misread the personal note he had slipped into the invitation? There was nothing to do but wait…and hope.

Levi Landcaster was surrounded by his usual entourage of feminine devotees. He teased and flirted to his admirers’ content. Still, he was bored and dissatisfied. He needed a conquest, a woman who captured his fancy. One word, and he would have any one of these beauties. No, he wanted someone he didn’t have—a woman who might pose a challenge. The lively music emitting from the fiddle and piano forte did nothing to assuage his boredom. He yawned, his hand barely touching his lips while he casually scanned the ballroom. So many ladies. He stopped mid-yawn when his eyes fell on a striking blonde. A slow smile spread across his face, and he turned to the rather pretty young woman at his elbow whose chatter he hadn’t been paying a bit of attention to. Who is that lovely creature beside Asher Morgan? he inquired, flicking a wisp of his fair hair from his forehead.

She turned to him, her lips melting into a decided pout. That’s Ella Ashford!

El-la? he repeated, surprise and intrigue edging each syllable. Lacking the conviction to keep his eyes in his head, he gave himself leave to study every inch of her figure. Ella would do very nicely, indeed.

She’s an orphan. Didn’t you know? the young woman insisted, clutching his arm as though to keep him from moving toward his prize.

Levi removed the little vixen’s hand, staring at Ella with such intensity in his dark blue eyes that the ladies around him uttered quiet, resigned sighs. Of course, he knew Miss Ashford—had practically grown up with her. He had never entertained her as a possibility; she was so much younger than he. He’d been guilty of only looking upon her as the younger sister of Phillip and Asher Morgan, nothing more. An unfortunate mistake, he reasoned, but one he would not make again.

Ella Ashford, he whispered, relishing the way her name rolled off his tongue. She was unaware of him for the moment, and he took the opportunity to ponder her while she stood in a queenly manner at Asher’s side, holding a lively conversation with a group of young people. Her beauty held him captive. The golden curls cascading down the nape of her neck bounced flirtatiously, in Levi’s opinion, as she spoke. He enjoyed the way her elegant dress hugged her feminine curves, and when had she blossomed into a young woman? He found her smile enchanting, her sweet nature alluring. And right there, in that short span of time, he decided he must have her—at any cost.

Ella laughed lightly, touching Asher’s arm as she did. She was grateful for his strong presence at her side. Parties such as these tormented her shy nature mercilessly, and Nelson’s behavior confused her. When she turned to smooth her skirt, her lips parted in astonishment with the revelation Levi Landcaster was ogling her! She unsuccessfully resisted the wild urge to peer over her shoulder to confirm he was not engaging someone else. Sure enough, his eyes were locked on her. He flashed an impressive smile and maneuvered his way through the crowd to where she stood. Ella found her heart pounding harder and harder with each step he took to close the space between them.

Miss Ashford, he crooned when he’d reached her. He clasped her hand and pressed his lips against it. Your loveliness surpasses even the rose.

With a hesitant smile, Ella lowered her eyes and softly replied, You flatter me, Mr. Landcaster. She peeked through her lashes to see if Nelson had noticed Levi’s attention. His grimace indicated he had. Still, he made no move toward her.

Landcaster! Asher exclaimed, giving Levi a jovial thump on the back.

Levi’s smile dissolved, and his expression became sharp.

I haven’t seen you around much.

I’ve been…detained with my father’s business, was Levi’s curt reply. He kept Ella in sight while he spoke and moved to take her hand again, but Ella had slid just out of reach. Levi came up empty, and she offered him a sweet, timid smile for his efforts.

You don’t mind if I steal Miss Ashford, do you?

Asher grinned with a wink at Ella. She’s all yours.

Levi led her to the most prominent place on the dance floor—the only way their position could have been more noticeable would have been if he had erected a platform in the center of this throng of people. A soft crimson crept into her cheeks when he placed his palm on the small of her back and lifted her hand in his other one. He held her close—a little too close. Ella debated whether or not to pull away, just a tad. He was rich, powerful, considerably handsome, and the tiniest bit intimidating. Her strong-willed nature grappled with her learned subservience—the former winning out. She took a slight step back, but his hand didn’t budge, so neither could Ella. With a measure of frustration, she accepted his nearness and focused her attention on her dancing. By all accounts, she was a graceful dancer, but Levi was suave in ways no other man could be. She felt clumsy and ridiculous trying to follow his lead.

Levi bent his head, his breath tickling her neck, You seem tense, Miss Ashford.

A nervous little giggle escaped her lips. It seems as though we’re being watched.

When he lifted his head to investigate, Ella peeped over his shoulder. She could not have imagined this. It did appear as though everyone in the room was stealing glances at them. Ella thought she just might faint dead away from nervousness, but clearly, she could not. What would Levi think? What would everyone say? She knew perfectly well she could not mess this up, which made her all the more anxious.

So they are, he confirmed with an easy laugh, as though he was used to this kind of attention—and even welcomed it. I’m certain their stares can be attributed to your beauty. I must say I didn’t recognize you at first. You’ve grown into quite a young woman. I can scarcely keep my eyes off of you.

Ella considered the possibility her heart would come right out of her chest if it beat any harder. Was she dreaming? Had Levi Landcaster, the Levi Landcaster, paid her a compliment of this magnitude? Oh! she exclaimed with yet another nervous laugh. I must cease this idiotic laughter before Levi thinks I’ve got a head full of nothing but cotton! she thought, desperate to find words that would not come. It seemed to her the best course of action was to match his confidence, even if she had to fake it. She cleared her throat. I would advise against it if you can manage, she quipped when she found her voice.

He stopped for a moment to study her, a slow smile forming on his very kissable lips. You would? he questioned, incredulous disbelief weaving in and out of every word. Why?

We’ve stopped dancing, she declared.

So we have. He resumed their former activity, but his entire demeanor had changed.

His obvious intrigue replaced the nervous tickle in her stomach with a feeling of elation. She, Ella Ashford, had managed to be of interest to Levi Landcaster.

Why? he repeated. Why would you advise against me drinking in your beauty?

Well, for one, poor, elderly Mr. and Mrs. Oleson are very near us in proximity. I should think, if you are not attending to where your dancing takes us, it is likely we would run right over them—an unpleasant experience for all involved.

A laugh burst from Levi as though he was not expecting it. Agreed, he said, finally. Anything else?

Your attentions are making me nervous; I can scarcely follow your lead.

I suppose you expect me to beg your forgiveness, Miss Ashford, came his playful response.

Why, not at all! I’ve taken the liberty of forgiving you already.

You have, have you? Well, I am very much relieved.

Ella laughed, breathless as the final notes of the song died away.

Would you care for some punch, Miss Ashford?

When she raised her eyes to his, she almost forgot to answer. His self-assured smile caused her heart to flip. Uh, yes, please.

He left her near a small alcove between the dining room and the hall while he fetched some refreshments. Ella tried to find something to do with her hands as she nervously awaited his return.

Ella! A harsh whisper caused her to turn around in search of the voice’s owner.

Nelson partially emerged from the alcove and pulled her into it.

Nelson! she exclaimed in surprise and delight. I was wondering—

I know…about my note, he interrupted hurriedly. I should not have sent it.

What? she breathed, her excitement marred by confusion. He shouldn’t have sent the note? The invitation? Both?

I’m sorry— Abruptly, he grasped her hand, gazed at her, and said, My God, this is difficult. He bent to kiss the top of her fingers—three quick, impulsive kisses.

Nelson, she whispered. Ella was now thoroughly perplexed…and happy? She could sense he was wrestling with something—but what?

I wish— he stopped. I must go. I am sorry. And he was gone.

Ella leaned against the wall, her brow furrowed in bewilderment. What had he been trying to say? She touched the spot Nelson’s lips had caressed not moments ago.

Miss Ashford, an altogether different voice near her made her jump. Are you hiding in here? Levi questioned.

No. No, I wasn’t hiding, she insisted. I was—I was…

Levi leaned his forearms on the frame, a crystal cup, red with punch, in each hand. Your drink, milady.

Thank you, came her quiet reply.

You’re upset. Someone has dared upset you?

She grinned. I’m fine. And I would never hide from you.

He chuckled—a flicker of…something…in his eyes. Indeed!

She took a sip, the beverage tantalizing her taste buds. Shall we rejoin the party? she queried, suddenly aware of her inability to leave the alcove unless Levi allowed it.

Not just yet. I rather like having you all to myself. His expression silenced her and sent a tingling sensation throughout her body. Tell me, how did your entrance into womanhood escape my notice?

Ella shifted uncomfortably. I imagine you were much engaged elsewhere.

He smiled. Perhaps, but no more. Come, let us dance.

He kept her to himself all evening until Ella became increasingly suspicious no one would dare take a dancing partner from him. The sort of power he wielded frightened and captivated her. Her emotions were hopelessly tangled, and the sudden, undeniable urge to leave overwhelmed her.

Please, do excuse me, Mr. Landcaster, she entreated when, yet, another song ended. I must speak with Asher.

He frowned. Of course.

She hurried to Asher, who was in conversation with a very flirtatious Myra Lundstrom, and placed a light hand on his forearm.

Ella, are you all right? he inquired when he noted her expression.

Yes. No. Please, Asher, I should like to go…immediately.

I’ll fetch Chet.

There is no need, a familiar voice interjected.

An astonished Ella turned to find Levi had followed her.

I would be happy to escort Miss Ashford home.

Asher’s hesitation gave Ella a small glimmer of hope, but he nodded in agreement with a quizzical look in response to her expression.

Levi’s carriage was the nicest Ella had ever seen. He chatted easily with her on the way home. Though he asked her all manner of questions, thankfully, he never once attempted to delve into her past. She laughed when the conversation warranted and obliged him with any information he requested. She could feel his eyes transfixed on her, as though he was mesmerized by the way the moonlight spilling into the window enhanced her beauty. His attentions caused a desire to both withdraw from him and be nearer him still. Ella was quite emotionally spent when the carriage finally stopped in front of the Morgans’ sprawling ranch house.

Levi ushered her up the steps and kissed her hand in a grandiose fashion. I hope, Miss Ashford, you have had as enchanted an evening as I have.

Ella melted—just a little. It has been a lovely evening, she agreed.

Perhaps—

Please, do forgive me, she interjected. I must go in and lie down. She thought she read disappointment in his expression—or was it frustration? Oh, if only she wasn’t so tired!

Well, then. Goodnight.

Goodnight. He waved as the carriage pulled away and smiled. Ella lifted her hand in return, a small pang of regret telling her she may have acted hastily. But she had to think. Had to make sense of the evening. Everything was happening too quickly. Why had Nelson behaved so strangely? Why had she allowed Levi to monopolize her?

Ella? Rose’s voice floated from the front room.

Ella went to her.

You’re back early. Was that Levi Landcaster I saw bringing you home? the older woman questioned, exchanging a significant glance with Jack.

Yes, it was.

Did Angus’ boy ask you to dance? Jack, who had been reading the newspaper, folded it, placing it on the small table nearest his chair.

I danced with no one else.

He chuckled. Danced with no one except the Landcaster boy, huh? Well, it’s about time someone of worth took notice of our little girl.

Ja-ack, Ella protested. I’m not so little anymore.

He grinned, Guess not, but you’ll always be, oh, eleven or so to me.

A smile tugged at the corners of Ella’s mouth.

You had a good time, I hope. Rose raised one eyebrow as though she wished to form the appropriate words in Ella’s mouth, even if they didn’t fit.

Ella paused. I had a glorious time, she answered honestly.

Jack and Rose exchanged another look. I want to hear all about it, encouraged Rose.

Yes, well, truthfully, I’m plumb worn out. Levi had me dancing all evening. Could we discuss it in the morning?

Indeed! Goodnight, dear, Rose brushed a kiss against her cheek. Sleep well.

Goodnight, Jack—Rose.

G’night, Jack nodded.

The combination of the warm summer night and the excitement of the evening made it impossible for Ella to sleep. Finally, she tiptoed downstairs with the intent of sitting on the porch in the inky darkness and sort out her thoughts. Voices drifted to her ears, and as her foot left the very last step, she heard her name. She stopped to listen.

Ella is a dear girl, Rose was saying.

Yes, but we know nothing of her family. What if the man who hurt her suddenly shows up? What if he did more than beat her? Jack touted, his voice full of concern. I have seen her and Asher together quite a lot lately, and after that comment before the dance…I just don’t want to run the risk of Asher being disgraced by her.

"Well! If we’ve become that sort of people… Rose huffed. Besides, I’ve heard brothers praise their sisters’ beauty plenty of times."

"They are not brother and sister." Silence invaded the next few seconds. Ella held her breath.

Undoubtedly, Rose finally agreed.

That Landcaster boy’s interest in Ella came at the perfect time. After a few months, they can court. And if he asks for her hand, Angus Landcaster would supply buyers for us. I’m certain of it. Ella would make a fine wife for Levi, and a merger with the Landcaster name would mean she, Phillip, and Asher will never want for money.

Ella frowned. Nelson, Levi, Asher…it was too much. She padded back to her room in stunned silence. Was it possible Jack thought she was good enough for Levi but not Asher? Asher’s comment had been completely harmless, of that she was certain. And it may have been the only thing she was certain of just then. Asher was like a brother to her, and she had never seen him in any other light. But now that the thought was on the table, he had been blessed with good looks and a kind heart. Oh, Ella moaned, placing her palm on her aching head as the events of the evening replayed themselves in her mind. She supposed she could love Asher—if Jack would only allow it.

Perhaps it was because she’d had a restless night or because the weather was so disagreeable; whatever the reason, Ella felt particularly irritable as she dressed for church the next morning. She chose her favorite dress, knowing she’d likely see Levi at services, and placed the matching jade bonnet on her head. Then, she snatched her small, black Bible from the bureau and rushed to the waiting carriage. As usual, the Morgans arrived just before the service began.

Once they were settled in their bench, Ella’s eyes slid to where the Landcasters sat. She spotted Levi and was a little more than surprised to find he was looking directly at her. He shot her a debonair grin, and Ella smiled in return. Phillip, Jack and Rose’s other son, and Amy, his wife, joined them just as the preacher came to the pulpit.

Please turn to page 38 in your hymnal, Reverend Tate directed. When everyone stood, Ella became conscious of Asher’s eyes upon her. She turned toward him and frowned when she noted his startled but amused expression.

What is it? she questioned in a low voice, leaning around Phillip and Amy. He opened his mouth to speak, but a disapproving glance from Rose stopped him. Ella scowled as he screwed up his face in a concerted effort to hold in the laugh, threatening to burst forth.

What? she mouthed, raising her eyebrows in exasperation. He shook his head and cleared his throat, his body trembling with hilarity. With a dramatic gesture, he pointed to the back of his left leg. Ella leaned back to look at his trousers, then leaned forward and shrugged. She didn’t see anything amiss.

I don’t see anything! she announced in a cross whisper while all around her, the congregation sang Amazing Grace. Rose tapped her shoulder and shook her head. Ella straightened, lifted her chin, and sang away—ignoring Asher’s frantic motions, though she could see him clearly out of the corner of her eye.

When at last Reverend Tate asked his parishioners to sit, Ella (a little pompously) reached around the back of her skirts to smooth them out before taking her seat and was astonished to find a rather noticeable section missing! She gasped and shot Asher (who had turned a rather unbecoming shade of purple, his hand placed firmly over his mouth) a horrified look.

The missing piece was not an entire mystery, however, and she winced with the unpleasant knowledge of exactly how much was vacant. Nearly two months ago, she had stood too close to the stove and burnt the backside. Since it was her favorite dress, she had cut the charred section off with every intention of asking Betsy to stitch it so no one would notice. Her plan failed, however—she had completely forgotten to have Betsy sew the section together!

Ella suffered through the sermon, hearing not a single word. She was certain, at the very least, a portion of her bloomers was showing when she stood, and she found herself concentrating only on how many people must have witnessed her grave mistake. Asher cleared his throat a couple of times and managed to turn an impending snicker into a cough. Ella glared at him, which made him shake with stifled laughter all the more. When Reverend Tate dismissed them, Ella whispered her situation to an astonished Rose and was cleverly escorted out and whisked into the carriage. The entire family had a good laugh on the way home, and Ella vowed to never again try to salvage a ruined dress, no matter how much she loved it.

Levi Asks

Ella had found a comfortable spot on the back veranda steps where she could pretend to read while pondering Asher. He was training a new mustang a scant fifty feet away, and the book in her hands ensured she would not be found out. She could hear him speaking to the horse amidst the pounding hooves. What did she think of Asher Morgan? As a brother, he was gentle, protective, and encouraging. But as a suitor…goodness, he was handsome!

Ella!

Ella jumped at the sound of Mrs. Morgan’s voice and offered an apologetic smile, patting an empty space beside her. She glanced at her open yet unread book, relieved to find it was right-side-up.

I have the most wonderful news.

"You know how I love a bit of good news," Ella responded, grinning.

Levi Landcaster has asked Jack’s permission to court you!

"He wants to court me?" Ella’s eyes widened in disbelief. She’d assumed her hasty exit from the Lundstrom Summer Ball had turned him away from her. She was flattered, yes, but uneasy—local gossip credited him with being a philanderer. Perhaps she had tried a little too hard with Levi at the dance.

What did Jack say? Ella asked as though the answer held great importance.

He gave his permission, of course. Levi is a desirable suitor.

Yes, he is. Ella forced a smile.

Don’t you want it? queried Rose.

Ella fought to keep her eyes from searching for Asher and nodded. Of course! Levi is a good catch—wealthy, well-bred, intelligent…

"Handsome," Rose finished, elbowing her with a grin.

He is all that. Ella laughed softly.

Then whatever is the matter?

Naturally, I’m honored, but… Ella raised her eyes to meet Rose’s, "I never thought Levi would want me! At the dance—I truly thought he was having a bit of fun. Now that he’s made his intentions known, I’m anxious. Am I good enough for him? My past—the Landcasters desire everything to be just so. I’m uncertain I can live up to their expectations." Ella’s brow wrinkled in apprehension. Becoming a Landcaster was the equivalent of becoming a member of the royal family, so high was their position in Sedona Falls. One did not just become a Landcaster.

"The question is not whether you can endeavor to deserve him but whether he can endeavor to deserve you!" Rose scoffed with a decided lift of her chin. And Ella shifted her wistful gaze to Asher, accepting that her future was set before her—an immovable path she was not at liberty to control.

Levi came for her the very next day. He flashed a knee-weakening smile when he placed his hand on her waist in order to help her into his elegant buggy. Ella watched him in fascination while he talked and flirted with her—he was so sure of himself, so sure of her adoration. She didn’t know whether to be annoyed or flattered by his behavior. She decided on the latter. Though