Wagonmaster by Nita Wick

known.”
    â€œThanks. It only took a few minutes.”
    They both turned to see Mr. Fleming exit his wagon. He pulled his hat low and trudged toward the bushes. Addie surmised that the call of nature had drawn the man from his dry shelter. On the other side of the clearing, Mrs. Cooper leaned out of her wagon and used the rain to rinse a plate. She waved at them before ducking back under cover.
    An awkward silence settled between Addie and Reynolds. She sought to break the silence. “Would you like some breakfast?”
    He shook his head. “I had some hardtack and a biscuit with Jimmy.” He paused and cleared his throat. “Addie, about last night, I—”
    Panic struck her, and she tried to stop his words. “Reynolds—”
    Mrs. Wheeler’s arrival stalled both of them. Carrying a coffee pot and a pan, she ducked under the edge of the canopy. “Mr. Reynolds. Mrs. Reynolds,” she greeted them. “I was wondering if you’d let me brew some coffee and warm some biscuits for the children.”
    Addie was surprised at the request. No one on the train had ever asked her for anything, though she knew the others often borrowed supplies and worked together when help was needed. “Yes, of course, Mrs. Wheeler.” She hurried to move her coffee pot to the side, giving the woman plenty of room for her things.
    â€œThank you so much, Mrs. Reynolds.”
    Once she’d put her coffee pot and pan over the fire, Addie offered her only chair. “Would you like to sit down while you wait?”
    â€œOh, goodness, no! I couldn’t possibly take your seat. I’ll just stand here out of the rain if you don’t mind. It’s nice just to be out of that stuffy wagon.”
    â€œI can imagine.” Addie tried to be as gracious as she knew how. “Would you like a cup of coffee while you wait?” This was the first time anyone from the train had approached her. She wanted to make a good impression.
    â€œNo, thank you. That’s very sweet of you, but it will only be a few minutes before this is ready. I wouldn’t want to impose any more than I already have.”
    â€œImpose? Not at all! Any time I might be able to help, you need only ask. I’m happy to share anything I have.” Addie smiled, hoping Mrs. Wheeler knew she was sincere.
    The woman returned her smile. “Thank you. The same goes for you.”
    Relief flooded through Addie. Perhaps things would be less hostile between her and the rest of the train now. At least it would be less awkward between her and the Wheelers.
    * * * *
    The rainy morning passed quickly with others from the wagons coming to borrow the fire. The rain continued, abating for a few minutes at a time, but returning with a vengeance the moment anyone tried to venture out. Addie suggested that they find some big pots and cook stew for the entire train. Everyone readily agreed to supply vegetables and meat, anxious for a hot meal to lessen the chill of the wet weather.
    The rain finally ceased, and the day ended with stars peeping through the breaking clouds. Addie fell into bed, alone once again, grateful that the subject of her behavior last night hadn’t been broached a second time. That was one blunder she’d just as soon forget. It had been nice working with the other women to make the stew today. Most of them had been quiet, not really friendly, but it was a far cry from the silent treatment she’d received for the past few weeks.
    * * * *
    Dawn broke clear and cold the next day. The train burst to life once again with everyone trudging through the mud. Josh made his rounds, announcing they would leave after the midday meal. He instructed everyone to use the extra time to hunt, fish, and store wood and water. The heavy rains yesterday had made it almost impossible to prepare for the next section of their journey. A few of the men tried to hunt, but no one brought back anything