Cora: Bride of South Dakota (American Mail-Order Bride 40) Read Online Free PDF Page A

her. “He won’t know I’ve been sworn to secrecy.”
     
    “What about Ernest?”
     
    “I’ll tell him I have evidence about the girls he has raped and beaten. He won’t give me any trouble.”
     
    “Do you have evidence?” She was curious.
     
    “No, but he doesn’t know that.” Her brother smiled as he lifted her trunk. “I would love you to stay so we can build a friendship but I can’t guarantee father and Ernest won’t kidnap you and force you into marriage. I can’t watch you every minute of every day and I would fear for your safety. I believe the best thing for you is to get away and start afresh.”
     
    “I understand.” Cora reached under the mattress and pulled out the money she’d saved. She stuffed it into her reticule, draped her cloak around her shoulders and gathered her travelling bag. After taking one last glance around the room, she followed her brother from the house.
     
    The carriage awaited her at the front door. Peter secured her trunk to the back and turned to face her. She watched as he pulled a large envelope from inside his jacket. He offered it to her.
     
    “This is your travel itinerary, tickets and two hundred dollars in cash. You should be fine until you secure a position but if you need extra money, wire me via Mary. I would suggest you consider using the name Rose Brown to keep you safe. Millie and her family will understand when you explain.
     
    Cora gazed at the envelope in her hand. “It’s so much money Peter. How will I ever repay you?”
     
    “Consider it an apology for all the times I should have been there for you and I wasn’t. Remember, if you need to contact me or want to write, do it via Mary. She’ll keep our secret.” He reached into his pocket and withdrew a small gold band. “This was mothers’ wedding ring, I want you to have it.” He also handed her a delicate lace edged fan embellished with pale pink painted flowers. “This was given to mother by her grandmother on her wedding day.”
     
    Tears pricked her eyes as she slipped the ring onto her finger and carefully placed the fan into her travelling bag. She stood on tiptoe and kissed her brother’s cheek. He pulled her to him in a crushing hug. “Be careful, I do care about you, sis. Be happy.” He kissed her forehead.
     
    “And you.” Tears coursed down her cheeks as he assisted her into the carriage and instructed the driver to be on his way.
     
    Cora glanced back, waved to her brother and sank back against the seat. “I’m free at last,” she whispered.
     
    ***
     
    The trip to North Reading passed quickly as she closed her eyes and attempted to doze. Her mind wouldn’t quiet enough for her to completely relax. Over and over she questioned. Should I withdraw my letter to John and forget about being a Mail Order Bride? What if you can’t find employment near Millie’s home? She did tell me they are miles from anywhere. It was two days by wagon into Sioux City to pick up supplies. If I withdraw my application and dismiss the idea, will I find another man willing to marry a plain girl like me? I can’t expect Millie’s family to support me forever. Her decision was made, she would go ahead with her application to marry John.
     
    The driver startled her from her thoughts when he opened the carriage door and spoke. “North Reading, Miss.”
     
    He offered his hand to assist her, she slipped her gloved hand into his and stepped onto the street. “Thank you,” she said.
     
    “You go on into the office. I’ll take your trunk around the back and set it with the other luggage so it can be loaded onto the stage to Boston.” He bounded up onto the driver’s seat and she watched as the carriage disappeared around the side of the building.
     
    Several people were seated, others milled about talking as she pushed the door open and entered the Stage office. Her ticket was ready in her hand, stepping over to the counter, she handed it over to a short, gruff looking man. His