Tracie Peterson Read Free Page A

minutes, Maggie stood at the base of the oak staircase, dressed in her green suit with valise and purse in hand. She was an alluring picture with her long auburn hair put up and a green hat pinned jauntily to one side.
    Her appearance was not lost on Garrett. “Let me take that, Miss Intissar,” he said as he stepped forward to take the valise from Maggie’s hands. Maggie glared at him but said nothing. He took the bag and stepped back.
    “You must be stronger than you look. This thing weighs more than a yearling heifer,” he drawled.
    “I am a great many things more than what I appear to be, Mr. Lucas,” Maggie answered, refusing to allow him the upper hand.
    “Somehow, Ma’am, that doesn’t surprise me.” His eyes pierced her soul, and Maggie felt as though she’d just been put in her place.
    “Oh good, you’re here at last,” Sophia said as she entered the room carrying another small bag. “I had Two Moons pack you some things to eat.” Sophia referred to her Indian housekeeper who had been with her since she’d been a young girl.
    “That isn’t necessary, Ma’am,” Garrett began. “Mr. Intissar sent along plenty of money for the two of us to eat along the way.”
    Maggie thought of at least a dozen retorts but kept her tongue in check for a time longer. Once they were on the train, Garrett Lucas would discover just how difficult his trip was going to be.
    “I only thought you might need something extra. I suppose it’s the mothering instinct in me.” Sophia started to discard the bag, but Maggie reached out and took it.
    “Nonsense, Grandmother. It was a wise idea,” she said gently, while flashing a look at Garrett Lucas that made it clear he’d overstepped his bounds. “One can never tell when the food will be unsatisfactory. Why, Lillie told me just last week the food offered on their trip to Omaha had been appalling.”
    “Of course, Ma’am. It was very thoughtful of you.” Garrett spoke polite ly, all the while returning Maggie’s blazing stare. He raised one dark eyebrow slightly, as if contemplating a further reply, then changed his mind. “I suggest we be on our way. It’s already three o’clock.”
    “Very well, Mr. Lucas.” Sophia allowed him to take her arm and lead her to the carriage.
    Maggie lingered for a moment, trying to drink in every inch of the house. Standing at the foot of the stairs, she could look into three different rooms. They held comfort and good memories. Suddenly, she wanted to embrace it all, fearing that she’d never see her home again. Why was God punishing her? Hadn’t she paid enough?
    Maggie choked back tears and steadied her nerves. She’d make it back, she vowed to herself. All the Garrett Lucases and Jason Intissars in the world would not keep her from her home and Grandmother.
    “Come along, Maggie.” It was Grandmother calling from the carriage.
    Maggie stepped onto the porch and shut the door behind her. She turned to find Garrett Lucas at her arm.
    “I would suggest, Miss Intissar, that you make this matter as easy on your grandmother as possible.” Garrett’s voice was deadly serious. “She has done nothing but care for you and love you. You are a spoiled and selfish child.” He paused to search her eyes. “I will not allow you to cause her further grief by a display of childishness at the train station.”
    Maggie’s mouth dropped open in shocked surprise. “How dare you—” Her words were cut off by his stern expression.
    “I’m not the enemy here, but you are going to get on that train if I have to rope you and tie you to the seat. Everyone, including that sweet, old woman, has danced to your tune long enough. You are now in my care, Miss Magdelena Intissar, and I am quite capable of dealing with you.”
    Maggie was stunned. She could barely work her legs to walk down the porch steps. It wouldn’t be as easy to give Garrett Lucas the slip as she’d hoped. Mutely, Maggie allowed Garrett to lead her along the board