A Headstrong Woman(45)

Alexandria had just reached the bottom of the stairs when a knock sounded on the door. Alexandria was thankful that she had changed into one of her mourning dresses that morning.

“Hello, Lane,” she greeted her old friend somewhat cautiously.

“Hello, Alexandria,” he fiddled with the hat in his hands.

“Come in,” Alexandria invited as she stepped back from the door. Lane followed her into the living room and paused uncertainly.

“I wanted to apologize again for being so unreasonable in town…I know you are doing what you have to, Alexandria. I’m just worried for you. Ranching is hard for a man, let alone a single mother.”

“Thank you for your concern, Lane, I appreciate it, but I’m managing.” At least she hoped she was.

“It’s not easy though is it?” his eyes were as soulful as a puppy’s.

“No, it isn’t,” she admitted as she seated herself on the settee. Seemingly more relaxed now that he had made his apologies, Lane joined her.

“You always were stubborn,” he accused with a playful pat on her back. At Alexandria’s wince he frowned.

“I had a bit of an accident yesterday,” Alexandria admitted.

“Are you alright; what happened?” Lane was alert now.

“I fell off my horse, twice.”

“But you’re an excellent rider!” Lane protested. The whole community knew she could ride; she had made it clear when she had out ridden several of the boys in her class in an after school race.

“The first was my fault, I was careless. The second…” Alexandria wished she hadn’t said anything; he would overreact.

“What, Alexandria?”

“I was investigating some missing cattle when a shot startled my horse,” she hedged.

“Startled your horse? Were you shot at?” Lane was on his feet again.

“I’m fine, Lane and the sheriff already knows about it.”

“A fat lot of good that will do, Alexandria; the man is a joke and you know it.”

It was unfortunately true. The man investigated what suited him and let the rest slide. He was buddies with several town officials; he could be in any of their pockets best Alexandria could tell. Out and out violence in town at least got investigated; otherwise he would never be reelected.

“I’m fine, Lane.”

“What were you doing out there to begin with? I thought your foreman was looking out for you!”

“Excuse me? I said he was helping me.”

“Your father….”

“What?” Alexandria was standing now. “You discussed my business with my father?”

“I was concerned.”

“Lane, I am not your concern. I appreciate your friendship but you have over stepped your bounds!”

Lane, his face red, stood opposite her. Alexandria was still waiting for him to respond when a knock sounded on the door.

“Excuse me,” Alexandria turned and moved from the room; her steps were clipped with anger. She paused to collect herself before opening the door.

“Mr. Price,” her brows furrowed slightly; since when did he pay her social calls?

“Mrs. Morris, I hope you are well this afternoon,” Tristan bowed slightly.

“I am; thank you. Won’t you come in?” she invited.

“Thank you,” he removed his hat as he entered. He was dressed in his Sunday best; Alexandria’s frown deepened. She had only a passing acquaintance with the man, even if he was her closest neighbor. Alexandria led him into the parlor where Lane, his back to them, waited as he peered out the window.

“Lane, I’m sure that you and Mr. Price are acquainted, both being in business as you are,” Alexandria offered in way of greeting.

“Yes, of course, I often see Mr. Price around town and also in Jasper when my business takes me there. Good afternoon, Mr. Price,” Lane offered.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Wilson. I do believe you’ve visited a business of mine on occasion,” Tristan offered in return. Alexandria watched Lane color and wondered at the undercurrents currently passing between the two men.

“Perhaps so,” Lane’s expression became guarded. “I should leave, Alexandria. I expressed my concern; I also want you to know that should you ever need me, you need only make it known.”

“Thank you,” Alexandria acknowledged his offer.

“I’ll see myself out.” Lane, his back rigid, turned and made his way out of the room; the front door closed with a light thud behind him.