Page 83 - Homestead By Ann Newhouse

did not want to leave her father alone for too long. After a chat with Johanna and a couple of drinks, I was truly in the enchanted garden as Sofie led me by the hand to the big house and up the stairs to her bed. My heart was beating nervously with anticipation, not sure if it was laying with Sofie or the thought of her father hearing us together. I kept my eyes closed during our lovemaking . . . in case I saw the writing on the wall. A ‘No trespassing’ sign. I kept it a little quieter than usual as I was aware of John Tirrell’s presence, albeit on the ground floor.
Rising early next morning for breakfast, Sofie presented me with Mrs. O’ Neilson’s money for the cabin. As I left, she asked me if I could continue on the cattle drives, until Josh’s arm had fully healed, and he had made arrangements to meet with his father about his future. I promised I would be glad to help out, as it would give me the opportunity to see her and assess her mood regarding her plans, while observing her father’s behaviour.