Redemption's Edge Read Free Page B

knowledge of the west and how much he should say. “I locate people.” He glanced up as the server set Rachel’s meal down.
    “Thank you. This looks wonderful.” She smiled at the woman, while inhaling the scent of cooked meat, then looked up at Cash. “This is perfect.” She didn’t wait a moment longer. Within minutes, half her steak and most of the potatoes were gone. Rachel picked up the coffee cup and took a sip. That’s when she noticed Cash had stopped eating, and sat, staring, with a look of grim amusement in his eyes. “What is it?”
    “I’ve never seen a woman eat with such intensity.”
    Rachel set down her cup. “During the war, I learned to take food when offered and eat as fast as possible. Same with sleep. There never seemed to be enough of either.” A vague smile crossed her face. “Guess I should learn to slow down.”
    “Nothing wrong with a strong appetite.” He picked up his fork and finished the last of his supper.
    “I saw you unload a beautiful horse from the train. Will you be riding him to Denver?”
    “That’s right. I need a horse I can depend on for my work.”
    “I’m sorry, but tell me again what kind of work you do.”
    This time Cash didn’t hesitate. “I hunt people, Miss Davenport. For money.”
     

Chapter Two
    Savannah, Georgia
    “Guess I’m ready.” Dax took one last look around. “Thank you for allowing me to stay with you. Your hospitality means a lot, sir.”
    “No need for thanks. You’re welcome anytime.” Mr. Yancey stood on the street next to Dax, feeling sorrow that the ex-soldier felt it necessary to leave his home. “I thought Luke would be here to see you off.”
    Dax glanced up, then down the street, hoping to see Luke. “He’s not too pleased with my decision. Perhaps he’ll come around.” He mounted Hannibal, tipped his hat to Yancey, then turned toward the west.
    “God watch over you, Dax,” Yancey murmured as he watched him ride away.
    Dax kept turning in his saddle, checking to see if Luke would appear. He didn’t think it would matter, his brother not showing up to see him off, but it did. They often didn’t agree, had argued as much as any two brothers, yet they’d remained close. He swallowed a lump of regret at the thought Luke believed Dax had abandoned him. How could one explain an action they couldn’t describe to themselves?
    As the miles continued, the sky turned an angry black and rain began to fall. Dax pulled his great coat from behind the saddle and slipped it on as the sound of pounding hooves came from behind. He reached for his gun. Although the war had officially ended, many still fought out of ignorance of the surrender, pride, or bitterness. Dax meant to be prepared.
    “General! General, wait up!”
    Dax reined in Hannibal and turned toward the shouts, then watched as the rider pulled alongside him. Luke.
    “What are you doing here?” Dax’s voice held an edge, although the sight of his brother warmed him clear through.
    “I had a few business dealings that needed to be completed before I could leave. They’re done and I’m here.” Luke pushed his old hat further down on his head and looked at the storm rolling in. “Best we get moving.”
    Luke watched as surprise crossed his brother’s face, followed by understanding. “What? You thought you could get rid of me? Not a chance. I may not agree with the idea of riding away from our life in Savannah, but I’m sure as hell not letting you find adventure on your own. I’m going with you.”
    Dax stayed silent. He didn’t know where his next stop would be, or if he’d even make it across the Georgia border to Alabama before some stray bullet found him. He only had a vague sense of where he wanted to end up. Now he had a brother to worry about. The thought passed as Dax realized he felt more relief than a sense of burden as Luke rode by his side. He nudged Hannibal on, still not saying a word.
    Luke kept pace, finally turning to Dax after several