Candace McCarthy by Sweet Possession

twinkled as she met his gaze.
    He grinned, but took her at her word. “Miss Dempsey, you’re new here. When did you and the doctor arrive?”
    “Oh, you’ve been here before?”
    He nodded. “A couple of times, but I would have remembered seeing someone as lovely as you.”
    Amelia met his gaze with raised eyebrows at his lavish compliment, believing it to be false. The soldier blushed and looked away, while mumbling an apology. His horrified look earned her sympathy.
    “Tell me, Cameron, are you or any of your friends—I assume you’re with your troop and haven’t come here alone.” The man nodded. “Are any of you planning a trip to the trading post?”
    His expression perked up as he studied her. “Why, are you in need of some special item?”
    “Actually, my father is, but not from Keller’s—from the blacksmith there, Daniel Trahern.”
    “I could go there if you’d like.”
    “That’s extremely nice of you.”
    “If you will be so kind as to accompany me there.”
    “What about your superiors? Don’t you have to report back?”
    He shrugged. “I don’t see why, since I’ve been given the rest of the day free.”
    Amelia didn’t know if she wanted to see Daniel again so soon, although she’d regretted their last exchange. The blacksmith had saved her and escorted her back to the mission. He had scolded her, but it had been for her own good; yet, she had repaid his kindness with anger. She knew she’should apologize to him. She just didn’t know if she felt ready enough to do that.
    If you don’t go and get it over with, you’ll never rest, she thought. “All right, I’ll go with you,” Amelia said, and she hoped she wouldn’t be sorry she’d agreed to go.
    It was a pleasant afternoon for the ride to the trading post. Cameron was good company, and Amelia was glad for the escort. The memory of her encounter with ThomasKertell chilled her. She couldn’t help wondering what would have happened if Daniel hadn’t come to save her.
    She stole a glance at the young soldier beside her. If Kertell stopped her again, would Cameron be able to protect her? Cameron was a boy compared to Daniel. She hoped he was a good shot. He was a soldier; he should be. His confident manner made her question her fears.
    The journey to the post took little time. Amelia was glad when they made it safely with no sign of Kertell or any Indians. Her first encounter this morning with an Indian had been enlightening. She didn’t think she wanted to meet one when she was alone.
    “Would you like me to come inside?” Cameron said as he pulled the wagon in front of the blacksmithy.
    She shook her head. She wanted to apologize to Daniel Trahern without an audience. “I’ll be fine. Go on to Keller’s. Didn’t you mention that you needed a few things?”
    The young man admitted that he did. “Shall I wait here for you when I’m done?”
    “That’ll be fine, thank you.”
    Amelia stared at the blacksmithy a moment before venturing inside. She entered the building and immediately spied Daniel by the forge fire. She studied him a moment, found enjoyment in watching him work, then approached.
    Daniel felt a tingling at his nape that alerted him that he was being watched. He glanced up, saw it was Amelia Dempsey, and quickly looked down again.
    “Mr. Trahern?”
    He straightened, set down his work, and faced her. “Miss Dempsey,” he said. “Come for your father’s forceps?”
    She nodded. “And to apologize.”
    Daniel concealed his surprise. “For what?”
    “You rescued me three days ago, and I was rude.” Shegave him a tentative smile. “I’m sorry. I’m grateful you came by when you did. I’m not sure I would have escaped that horrible man if you hadn’t. Thank you.”
    “An apology and a thank-you?” he said with a teasing twinkle. “I’m honored.”
    The effect of his smile on her was devastating. His blond hair was ruffled and appealing. His blue eyes glowed, and there were tiny crinkle lines