Spoiled Evelyn (The Mail Order Brides of Boot Creek Book 4) by Carré White Page A

spoken about in such a derogatory manner had stoked my anger, but I would not engage them, walking faster towards the Gazette, where I might purchase a newspaper.
    “You’ve got a shadow,” said a voice behind me. I turned to find Mr. Brittle, who tipped his hat. “Howdy.”
    Why did his presence please me so? “Hello.”
    His dark brown eyes skimmed over me. “You’re a breath of fresh air.”
    “I was warned about you.”
    “You were?” A brow lifted, while amusement danced in his eyes.
    “Yes, but what do you mean about a shadow?”
    “That fella who’s following you.”
    “Wouldn’t that be you?”
    “I saw you go by the saloon, and I came out.”
    “You drink this early?”
    “It’s nearly lunchtime.” He shrugged, grinning.
    I sighed, because this had confirmed my fears. “I do have a shadow.” People passed, staring in our direction. I moved towards the doorway of the Gazette. “I wondered about that.”
    “You look worried.”
    “I am.”
    “Who is he?”
    I bit my lip, not wanting to disclose my secret, but it was difficult not to. “I … it might be someone my … er … family hired.”
    “You’re a runaway.”
    “Not exactly.”
    “Lola’s family was after her. She escaped a bad situation, but it followed her. If you ask me, it looks like one of ‘em Pinkerton detectives. He’s got that beady-eyed look about him.”
    “I’m not a criminal!” I blurted, feeling angry and indignant at the same time.
    “But you’re hiding somethin’. I’m kinda partial to damsels in distress, though. I’d be happy to not only provide a shoulder for you to cry on, but I might be able to solve your problems too.”
    “I doubt it. I was warned to stay away from you.”
    “I bet I know who said that. Mrs. Kelly’s still sore about that kiss. I confess; I did kiss her. It was a bit of a test, you see. It was something Mr. Kelly hired me to do. Normally, I’d be happy to kiss a woman for free, but he wanted to know if she could be trusted.”
    “That’s just awful.” I frowned. “You’re despicable.”
    “But she doesn’t hold a candle to you. She wasn’t nearly as sweet as you. I don’t think I’ve ever had a kiss that nice before. I’d be willing to risk another slap or two for more kisses.” A devilish grin lit his eyes.
    “You can rest assured that I shall never kiss you again.” And then I saw him, the man in the dark frock coat. Sensing my distraction, Mr. Brittle glanced over his shoulder.
    “That’s him. He’s got Pinkerton stink all over him. A few of ‘em fellas chased me down in my youth. He wants something, all right.”
    “I should go back.” I would buy a newspaper at another time.
    “You need an escort.” This was not a question, as he fell into step beside me.
    My mind spun with unpleasant thoughts, as I craned my neck to see if we were being followed, and we were. “Drat.”
    “What are you runnin’ from?”
    “My family,” I admitted.
    “I see.”
    “And … and a fiancé.” Laughter resounded at this declaration. I should have expected it.
    “Oh, lordy, what a tangled web you weave. Does Percy know?”
    “No, and I shouldn’t have said anything.” I should have kept my mouth shut.
    “But you’re worried they found you.”
    “Yes.” My shoulders had slumped. We neared the end of the boardwalk, having to cross to the other side where the hotel was.
    “Why don’t you marry? Then you’ll have your husband’s protection.”
    “I suppose I’ll have to. Is he still there?”
    “Don’t see him. I think he knows we perceived him. I’m sure he’ll telegraph his boss and pass on any pertinent information.”
    “And then either Joseph or my father will arrive here.”
    “Joseph is the fiancé?”
    “Yes.”
    “I’ve never met a woman who had two fiancés before.” He grinned. “That’s rather greedy, wouldn’t you say?”
    “Go to blazes,” I muttered. We neared the hotel. “I shouldn’t have told you anything.”
    “What are